12 CFR 1024.6 - Special information booklet at time of loan application.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 8 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Special information booklet at time of loan application. 1024.6 Section 1024.6 Banks and Banking BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION REAL ESTATE SETTLEMENT PROCEDURES ACT (REGULATION X) § 1024.6 Special information booklet at time of loan application. (a...

J-tube technique for double-j stent insertion during laparoscopic upper urinary tract surgical procedures.

PubMed

Kim, Hyung Suk; Lee, Byung Ki; Jung, Jin-Woo; Lee, Jung Keun; Byun, Seok-Soo; Lee, Sang Eun; Jeong, Chang Wook

2014-11-01

Double-J stent insertion has been generally performed during laparoscopic upper urinary tract (UUT) surgical procedures to prevent transient urinary tract obstruction and postoperative flank pain from ureteral edema and blood clots. Several restrictive conditions that make this procedure difficult and time consuming, however, include the coiled distal ends of the flexible Double-J stent and the limited bending angle of the laparoscopic instruments. To overcome these limitations, we devised a Double-J stent insertion method using the new J-tube technique. Between July 2011 and May 2013, Double-J stents were inserted using the J-tube technique in 33 patients who underwent a laparoscopic UUT surgical procedure by a single surgeon. The mean stent placement time was 4.8±2.7 minutes, and there were no intraoperative complications. In conclusion, the J-tube technique is a safe and time-saving method for Double-J stent insertion during laparoscopic surgical procedures.

A Procedural Content Generation-Based Framework for Educational Games: Toward a Tailored Data-Driven Game for Developing Early English Reading Skills

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hooshyar, Danial; Yousefi, Moslem; Lim, Heuiseok

2018-01-01

Automated content generation for educational games has become an emerging research problem, as manual authoring is often time consuming and costly. In this article, we present a procedural content generation framework that intends to produce educational game content from the viewpoint of both designer and user. This framework generates content by…

Modified tendon stripper for obtaining palmaris longus tendon graft.

PubMed

Aköz, T; Altintaş, H; Civelek, B

1999-04-01

Tendon graft harvesting is a challenging part of hand surgery. It is not only a time-consuming procedure but also carries the potential complications associated with it. Various alternatives for this procedure are presented in the literature to overcome these difficulties. In this paper, we are presenting a series of cases in which a newly modified tendon stripper was used for tendon graft harvesting.

An automated optical wedge calibrator for Dobson ozone spectrophotometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, R. D.; Komhyr, W. D.; Grass, R. D.

1994-01-01

The Dobson ozone spectrophotometer measures the difference of intensity between selected wavelengths in the ultraviolet. The method uses an optical attenuator (the 'Wedge') in this measurement. The knowledge of the relationship of the wedge position to the attenuation is critical to the correct calculation of ozone from the measurement. The procedure to determine this relationship is time-consuming, and requires a highly skilled person to perform it correctly. The relationship has been found to change with time. For reliable ozone values, the procedure should be done on a Dobson instrument at regular intervals. Due to the skill and time necessary to perform this procedure, many instruments have gone as long as 15 years between procedures. This article describes an apparatus that performs the procedure under computer control, and is adaptable to the majority of existing Dobson instruments. Part of the apparatus is usable for normal operation of the Dobson instrument, and would allow computer collection of the data and real-time ozone measurements.

77 FR 40494 - Procedures for the Handling of Retaliation Complaints Under Section 219 of the Consumer Product...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-10

... cases involving important or novel legal issues, large numbers of employees, alleged violations that... computation of time before those tribunals and express filing deadlines as days rather than business days...

Corrosion performance tests for reinforcing steel in concrete : test procedures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-09-01

The existing test method to assess the corrosion performance of reinforcing steel embedded in concrete, mainly : ASTM G109, is labor intensive, time consuming, slow to provide comparative results, and often expensive. : However, corrosion of reinforc...

Development of an efficient procedure for calculating the aerodynamic effects of planform variation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mercer, J. E.; Geller, E. W.

1981-01-01

Numerical procedures to compute gradients in aerodynamic loading due to planform shape changes using panel method codes were studied. Two procedures were investigated: one computed the aerodynamic perturbation directly; the other computed the aerodynamic loading on the perturbed planform and on the base planform and then differenced these values to obtain the perturbation in loading. It is indicated that computing the perturbed values directly can not be done satisfactorily without proper aerodynamic representation of the pressure singularity at the leading edge of a thin wing. For the alternative procedure, a technique was developed which saves most of the time-consuming computations from a panel method calculation for the base planform. Using this procedure the perturbed loading can be calculated in about one-tenth the time of that for the base solution.

29 CFR 2702.8 - Advance payment of fees; interest; debt collection procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... charged in timely fashion (i.e., within 30 days of the date of billing) may be required first to pay that...) The Debt Collection Act of 1982, Pub. L. 97-365, including disclosure to consumer credit reporting...

12 CFR 227.2 - Consumer-complaint procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Consumer-complaint procedure. 227.2 Section 227.2 Banks and Banking FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM (CONTINUED) BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE ACTS OR PRACTICES (REGULATION AA) General Provisions § 227.2 Consumer...

12 CFR 227.2 - Consumer-complaint procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Consumer-complaint procedure. 227.2 Section 227.2 Banks and Banking FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM (CONTINUED) BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE ACTS OR PRACTICES (REGULATION AA) General Provisions § 227.2 Consumer...

Fabricating a stable record base for completely edentulous patients treated with osseointegrated implants using healing abutments.

PubMed

Rungcharassaeng, K; Kan, J Y

1999-02-01

A stable record base is essential for accurate interocclusal centric relation records in a completely edentulous patient. In implant prosthodontics, several procedures have been suggested for the fabrication of a stable record base. However, these procedures necessitate removal of the healing abutments during the interocclusal record procedure and the trial denture placement, which makes the procedures tedious and time-consuming. When the implant-prosthesis interface is subgingival, the patient may also experience discomfort during these procedures. This article describes a procedure for fabricating a stable record base that uses the healing abutments, which eliminates the necessity of the healing abutment removal and its consequences. Advantages and disadvantages of this procedure are also discussed.

75 FR 5248 - Requirements and Procedures for Consumer Assistance To Recycle and Save Program

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-02

... time will allow the public to benefit from the availability of lower cost used vehicle parts from... CARS program. The additional time would allow the public to benefit from the availability of lower cost... public benefit of having cheaper used vehicle parts from the vehicles traded in under the CARS program...

[MATCHE: Management Approach to Teaching Consumer and Homemaking Education.] Consumer Approach Strand: Housing. Module I-B-6: Maintenance Procedures for Surfaces and Appliances.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hennings, Patricia

This competency-based preservice home economics teacher education module on maintenance procedures for surfaces and appliances is the sixth in a set of six modules on consumer education related to housing. (This set is part of a larger set of sixty-seven modules on the Management Approach to Teaching Consumer and Homemaking Education [MATCHE]--see…

Word of mouth and physician referrals still drive health care provider choice.

PubMed

Tu, Ha T; Lauer, Johanna R

2008-12-01

Sponsors of health care price and quality transparency initiatives often identify all consumers as their target audiences, but the true audiences for these programs are much more limited. In 2007, only 11 percent of American adults looked for a new primary care physician, 28 percent needed a new specialist physician and 16 percent underwent a medical procedure at a new facility, according to a new national study by the Center for Studying Health System Change (HSC). Among consumers who found a new provider, few engaged in active shopping or considered price or quality information--especially when choosing specialists or facilities for medical procedures. When selecting new primary care physicians, half of all consumers relied on word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and relatives, but many also used doctor recommendations (38%) and health plan information (35%), and nearly two in five used multiple information sources when choosing a primary care physician. However, when choosing specialists and facilities for medical procedures, most consumers relied exclusively on physician referrals. Use of online provider information was low, ranging from 3 percent for consumers undergoing procedures to 7 percent for consumers choosing new specialists to 11 percent for consumers choosing new primary care physicians

Testing the accuracy of timing reports in visual timing tasks with a consumer-grade digital camera.

PubMed

Smyth, Rachael E; Oram Cardy, Janis; Purcell, David

2017-06-01

This study tested the accuracy of a visual timing task using a readily available and relatively inexpensive consumer grade digital camera. A visual inspection time task was recorded using short high-speed video clips and the timing as reported by the task's program was compared to the timing as recorded in the video clips. Discrepancies in these two timing reports were investigated further and based on display refresh rate, a decision was made whether the discrepancy was large enough to affect the results as reported by the task. In this particular study, the errors in timing were not large enough to impact the results of the study. The procedure presented in this article offers an alternative method for performing a timing test, which uses readily available hardware and can be used to test the timing in any software program on any operating system and display.

Mechanized Polishing of Optical Rod and Fiber Ends

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gum, J. S.

1987-01-01

Workpiece holder for standard grinding and polishing machine makes it easier to produce optical finish and shape on end of metal or glass rod or bundle of optical fibers. Previously, glass parts lapped and polished manually, time-consuming procedure calling for considerable skill.

Students as Assets.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lipsky, Martin S.; Egan, Mari

1999-01-01

Lists ten ways in which having medical students in the community physician's office can be of value to preceptors, including providing valuable but time-consuming patient services, following up on phone calls, providing computer skills, performing minor office procedures, reviewing medical records, helping with paperwork, stimulating preceptor…

ELECTROSTATICALLY CHARGED AEROSOL DECONTAMINATION SYSTEM FOR SMALL BUILDING DECONTAMINATION - PHASE I

EPA Science Inventory

Existing decontamination procedures are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and produce low-yielding results, and they have a high risk of personnel exposure and equipment damage. Foster-Miller, Inc., has teamed with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and other reagent suppl...

16 CFR 1209.4 - Test procedures for determining settled density.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... density. 1209.4 Section 1209.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT... procedures for determining settled density. The settled density of lose fill insulation must be determined.... This section describes the procedure for determining the settled density of loose fill insulation. (a...

16 CFR 1209.4 - Test procedures for determining settled density.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... density. 1209.4 Section 1209.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT... procedures for determining settled density. The settled density of lose fill insulation must be determined.... This section describes the procedure for determining the settled density of loose fill insulation. (a...

16 CFR 1209.4 - Test procedures for determining settled density.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... density. 1209.4 Section 1209.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT... procedures for determining settled density. The settled density of lose fill insulation must be determined.... This section describes the procedure for determining the settled density of loose fill insulation. (a...

16 CFR 1209.4 - Test procedures for determining settled density.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... density. 1209.4 Section 1209.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT... procedures for determining settled density. The settled density of lose fill insulation must be determined.... This section describes the procedure for determining the settled density of loose fill insulation. (a...

24 CFR 3280.3 - Manufactured home procedural and enforcement regulations and consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Manufactured home procedural and enforcement regulations and consumer manual requirements. 3280.3 Section 3280.3 Housing and Urban Development... consumer manual requirements. A manufacturer must comply with the requirements of this part 3280, part 3282...

75 FR 64621 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Furnaces and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-20

... and oil-fired furnaces and boilers consume both fossil fuel and electricity. Electric furnaces and boilers only consume electricity. In this test procedure, fossil-fuel energy consumption is accounted for comprehensively over a full-year cycle, thereby satisfying EISA 2007 requirements for fossil-fuel standby mode and...

75 FR 17075 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Furnaces and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-05

... different in mathematical form, is conceptually the same as the integrated AFUE for fossil fueled furnaces... that gas-fired and oil-fried furnaces and boilers consume both fossil fuel and electricity, while electric furnaces and boilers only consume electricity. The current test procedure accounts for all fossil...

Using Paraquat to Generate Anion Free Radicals and Hydrogen Peroxide in "In Vitro": Antioxidant Effect of Vitamin E--A Procedure to Teach Theoretical and Experimental Principles of Reactive Oxygen Species Biochemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jimenez-Del-Rio, Marlene; Suarez-Cedeno, Gerson; Velez-Pardo, Carlos

2010-01-01

The theoretical basis of reactive oxygen species and their impact on health issues are relatively easy to understand by biomedical students. The detection of reactive oxygen species requires expensive equipment, the procedures are time consuming and costly, and the results are hard to interpret. Moreover, cause-and-effect relationships in the…

[Comparison of time-oriented cost accounting catalogs to control a department of radiology].

PubMed

Hackländer, T; Mertens, H; Cramer, B M

2005-03-01

Within a hospital, the radiology department has taken over the role of a cost center. Cost accounting can be applied to analyze the costs for the performance of services. By assigning the expenditures of resources to the service, the cash value can directly be distributed to the costs of equipment, material and rooms. Time-oriented catalogs of services are predefined to calculate the number of the employees for a radiology department. Using our own survey of time data, we examined whether such catalogs correctly represent the time consumed in a radiology department. Only services relevant for the turnover were compared. For 96 primary radiological services defined by the score-oriented German fee catalog for physicians (Gebuhrenordnung fur Arzte), a ranking list was made for the annual procedures in descending frequency order. According to the Pareto principle, the 11 services with the highest frequency were chosen and the time consumed for the technical and medical services was collected over a period of 2 months. This survey was compared with the time-oriented catalogs TARMED and EBM 2000plus. The included 11 relevant radiological services represented 80.3 % of the annual procedures of our radiology department. When comparing the technical services between the time-oriented catalogs and our own survey, TARMED gives a better description of the time consumed in 7 of the 11 services and EMB 2000plus in 3 services. When comparing the medical services, TARMED gives a better description of the time consumed in 6 of the 11 services and EBM 2000plus in 4 services. When averaging all the radiological services, TARMED overestimates the current number of physicians necessary for primary reading by a factor of 10.0 % and EBM 2000plus by a factor of 2.6 %. As to the time spent on performing the relevant radiological services, TARMED is slightly superior to describe the radiology department of a hospital than EBM 2000plus. For calculating the number of physicians necessary for primary reading, EBM 2000plus is superior to TARMED.

16 CFR 1301.7 - Test procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Test procedures. 1301.7 Section 1301.7 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS BAN OF UNSTABLE REFUSE BINS § 1301.7 Test procedures. (a) The refuse bin shall be tested by applying forces as...

16 CFR § 1209.4 - Test procedures for determining settled density.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... density. § 1209.4 Section § 1209.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER... procedures for determining settled density. The settled density of lose fill insulation must be determined.... This section describes the procedure for determining the settled density of loose fill insulation. (a...

ADAPTING THE MEDAKA EMBRYO ASSAY TO A HIGH-THROUGHPUT APPROACH FOR DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICITY TESTING.

EPA Science Inventory

Chemical exposure during embryonic development may cause persistent effects, yet developmental toxicity data exist for very few chemicals. Current testing procedures are time consuming and costly, underlining the need for rapid and low cost screening strategies. While in vitro ...

77 FR 31439 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-25

... reasonable policies and procedures that a user of consumer reports must employ when a user receives a notice... describe reasonable policies and procedures for users of consumer reports to: \\2\\ As noted above, these... identity of the person for whom it has obtained a consumer report, and Reconcile the address of the...

40 CFR Appendix Ix to Part 266 - Methods Manual for Compliance With the BIF Regulations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

.... However, it is more time-consuming and is recommended only if the basic approach fails to meet the risk... used to evaluate the acceptability of the CEMS at the time of its installation or whenever specified in regulations or permits. The procedures are not designed to evaluate CEMS performance over an extended period...

40 CFR Appendix Ix to Part 266 - Methods Manual for Compliance With the BIF Regulations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

.... However, it is more time-consuming and is recommended only if the basic approach fails to meet the risk... used to evaluate the acceptability of the CEMS at the time of its installation or whenever specified in regulations or permits. The procedures are not designed to evaluate CEMS performance over an extended period...

40 CFR Appendix Ix to Part 266 - Methods Manual for Compliance With the BIF Regulations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

.... However, it is more time-consuming and is recommended only if the basic approach fails to meet the risk... used to evaluate the acceptability of the CEMS at the time of its installation or whenever specified in regulations or permits. The procedures are not designed to evaluate CEMS performance over an extended period...

78 FR 53625 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Furnaces and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-30

... Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Furnaces and Boilers; Correction AGENCY... Federal Register that amended the test procedure for residential furnaces and boilers (78 FR 41265). Due...., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-6590. Email: residential_furnaces_and_boilers@ee.doe.gov . Mr...

Autoshaping of ethanol drinking: an animal model of binge drinking.

PubMed

Tomie, Arthur; di Poce, Jason; Derenzo, Christopher C; Pohorecky, Larissa A

2002-01-01

To examine the hypothesis that Pavlovian autoshaping provides an animal learning model of drug abuse, two studies evaluated the induction of ethanol drinking by autoshaping procedures. In Experiment 1, the sipper tube conditioned stimulus (CS) contained saccharin/ethanol solution and was repeatedly paired with food as an unconditioned stimulus (US). The CS-US paired group consumed more of the 0.1% saccharin-6% ethanol solution than did the CS-US random group, revealing that autoshaping conditioned responses (CR) induce ethanol drinking not attributable to pseudo-conditioning. Experiment 2 employed saccharin-fading procedures and showed that the paired vs random group differences in ethanol drinking were maintained, even as the saccharin was eliminated from the solution. The results show that Pavlovian autoshaping procedures induce high volumes of ethanol drinking when the presentation of a sipper tube containing an ethanol solution precedes the response-independent delivery of food. The high volume of ethanol consumed in a brief period of time suggests that Pavlovian autoshaping may be a model of binge drinking.

Protection of quality and innovation in radiation oncology: the prospective multicenter trial the German Society of Radiation Oncology (DEGRO-QUIRO study). Evaluation of time, attendance of medical staff, and resources during radiotherapy with IMRT.

PubMed

Vorwerk, H; Zink, K; Schiller, R; Budach, V; Böhmer, D; Kampfer, S; Popp, W; Sack, H; Engenhart-Cabillic, R

2014-05-01

A number of national and international societies published recommendations regarding the required equipment and manpower assumed to be necessary to treat a number of patients with radiotherapy. None of these recommendations were based on actual time measurements needed for specific radiotherapy procedures. The German Society of Radiation Oncology (DEGRO) was interested in substantiating these recommendations by prospective evaluations of all important core procedures of radiotherapy in the most frequent cancers treated by radiotherapy. The results of the examinations of radiotherapy with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in patients with different tumor entities are presented in this manuscript. Four radiation therapy centers [University Hospital of Marburg, University Hospital of Giessen, University Hospital of Berlin (Charité), Klinikum rechts der Isar der Technischen Universität München] participated in this prospective study. The workload of the different occupational groups and room occupancies for the core procedures of radiotherapy were prospectively documented during a 2-month period per center and subsequently statistically analyzed. The time needed per patient varied considerably between individual patients and between centers for all the evaluated procedures. The technical preparation (contouring of target volume and organs at risk, treatment planning, and approval of treatment plan) was the most time-consuming process taking 3 h 54 min on average. The time taken by the medical physicists for this procedure amounted to about 57%. The training part of the preparation time was 87% of the measured time for the senior physician and resident. The total workload for all involved personnel comprised 74.9 min of manpower for the first treatment, 39.7 min for a routine treatment with image guidance, and 22.8 min without image guidance. The mean room occupancy varied between 10.6 min (routine treatment without image guidance) and 23.7 min (first treatment with image guidance). The prospective data presented here allow for an estimate of the required machine time and manpower needed for the core procedures of radiotherapy in an average radiation treatment with IMRT. However, one should be aware that a number of necessary and time-consuming activities were not evaluated in the present study.

Using Video Modeling with Voiceover Instruction Plus Feedback to Train Staff to Implement Direct Teaching Procedures.

PubMed

Giannakakos, Antonia R; Vladescu, Jason C; Kisamore, April N; Reeve, Sharon A

2016-06-01

Direct teaching procedures are often an important part of early intensive behavioral intervention for consumers with autism spectrum disorder. In the present study, a video model with voiceover (VMVO) instruction plus feedback was evaluated to train three staff trainees to implement a most-to-least direct (MTL) teaching procedure. Probes for generalization were conducted with untrained direct teaching procedures (i.e., least-to-most, prompt delay) and with an actual consumer. The results indicated that VMVO plus feedback was effective in training the staff trainees to implement the MTL procedure. Although additional feedback was required for the staff trainees to show mastery of the untrained direct teaching procedures (i.e., least-to-most and prompt delay) and with an actual consumer, moderate to high levels of generalization were observed.

16 CFR 1016.1 - Purpose and policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... possible. (b) The Commission's policy and responsibility is to conserve the time of its employees for work... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Purpose and policy. 1016.1 Section 1016.1 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR INFORMATION...

Improved method for sectioning pectoral spines of catfish for age determination

USGS Publications Warehouse

Blouin, Marc A.; Hall, Glenda R.

1990-01-01

The advantages of this method are: (1) spine sections are clear, with uniform thickness and little tissue damage; (2) no time-consuming procedures are necessary; (3) the original spine remains intact for future sectioning; and (4) the thick, single blade does not warp.

Prediction of crude protein and oil content of soybeans using Raman spectroscopy

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

While conventional chemical analysis methods for food nutrients require time-consuming, labor-intensive, and invasive pretreatment procedures, Raman spectroscopy can be used to measure a variety of food components rapidly and non-destructively and does not require supervision from experts. The purpo...

Information Processing in Memory Tasks.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnston, William A.

The intensity of information processing engendered in different phases of standard memory tasks was examined in six experiments. Processing intensity was conceptualized as system capacity consumed, and was measured via a divided-attention procedure in which subjects performed a memory task and a simple reaction-time (RT) task concurrently. The…

Copyboard Quickly Makes Clean Printing Plates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balandis, W. D.

1985-01-01

Vacuum-chuck eliminates glass and sponge artwork support. Vacuum copyboard allows camera-ready original slid on top plate for proper positioning, then holds securely for photography. Bleed valve allows vacuum in copyboard box adjusted for small or large originals. With new copyboard, time-consuming and costly procedures unnecessary.

75 FR 67453 - Identity Theft Red Flags and Address Discrepancies Under the Fair and Accurate Credit...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-02

... reasonable policies and procedures that a user of consumer reports must employ when a user receives a notice... policies and procedures for users of consumer reports to enable a user to form a reasonable belief that it knows the identity of the person for whom it has obtained a consumer report, and reconcile the address...

7 CFR 1212.44 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (MARKETING AGREEMENTS..., PROMOTION, CONSUMER EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY INFORMATION ORDER Honey Packers and Importers Research, Promotion, Consumer Education, and Industry Information Order Honey Packers and Importers Board § 1212.44 Procedure...

7 CFR 1212.44 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE HONEY PACKERS AND IMPORTERS RESEARCH, PROMOTION, CONSUMER EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY INFORMATION ORDER Honey Packers and Importers Research, Promotion, Consumer Education, and Industry Information Order Honey Packers and Importers Board § 1212.44 Procedure...

Task analysis method for procedural training curriculum development.

PubMed

Riggle, Jakeb D; Wadman, Michael C; McCrory, Bernadette; Lowndes, Bethany R; Heald, Elizabeth A; Carstens, Patricia K; Hallbeck, M Susan

2014-06-01

A central venous catheter (CVC) is an important medical tool used in critical care and emergent situations. Integral to proper care in many circumstances, insertion of a CVC introduces the risk of central line-associated blood stream infections and mechanical adverse events; proper training is important for safe CVC insertion. Cognitive task analysis (CTA) methods have been successfully implemented in the medical field to improve the training of postgraduate medical trainees, but can be very time-consuming to complete and require a significant time commitment from many subject matter experts (SMEs). Many medical procedures such as CVC insertion are linear processes with well-documented procedural steps. These linear procedures may not require a traditional CTA to gather the information necessary to create a training curriculum. Accordingly, a novel, streamlined CTA method designed primarily to collect cognitive cues for linear procedures was developed to be used by medical professionals with minimal CTA training. This new CTA methodology required fewer trained personnel, fewer interview sessions, and less time commitment from SMEs than a traditional CTA. Based on this study, a streamlined CTA methodology can be used to efficiently gather cognitive information on linear medical procedures for the creation of resident training curricula and procedural skills assessments.

Silt fences: An economical technique for measuring hillslope soil erosion

Treesearch

Peter R. Robichaud; Robert E. Brown

2002-01-01

Measuring hillslope erosion has historically been a costly, time-consuming practice. An easy to install low-cost technique using silt fences (geotextile fabric) and tipping bucket rain gauges to measure onsite hillslope erosion was developed and tested. Equipment requirements, installation procedures, statistical design, and analysis methods for measuring hillslope...

78 FR 41609 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Refrigerators...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-10

.... Incomplete Cycling 6. Mechanical Temperature Controls 7. Ambient Temperature Gradient 8. Definitions.... at 29846-29847. A broad group of stakeholders \\1\\ submitted a joint comment supporting DOE's proposal... for variable defrost control (a control type in which the time interval between successive defrost...

Field testing a mobile inelastic neutron scattering system to measure soil carbon

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cropping history in conjunction with soil management practices can have a major impact on the amount of organic carbon (C) stored in soil. Current methods of assessing soil C based on soil coring and subsequent processing procedures prior to laboratory analysis are labor intensive and time consuming...

Application of genomic technologies for characterization, typing, and detection of E. coli

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Serotyping using polyclonal antibodies raised in rabbits has been the gold standard for classification of E. coli based on the O- (somatic) and H- (flagellar) antigens; however, problems associated with serotyping are that the procedure is time consuming and labor intensive, cross reactions among di...

16 CFR 1102.28 - Publication of reports of harm.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... REGULATIONS PUBLICLY AVAILABLE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY INFORMATION DATABASE (Eff. Jan. 10, 2011) Procedural..., the Commission will publish reports of harm that meet the requirements for publication in the Database...(d) in the Database beyond the 10-business-day time frame set forth in paragraph (a) of this section...

75 FR 53533 - Procedures for the Handling of Retaliation Complaints Under Section 219 of the Consumer Product...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-31

... time frames for employee complaints to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (``OSHA..., produced, or assembled. (j) OSHA means the Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the United... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Occupational Safety and Health Administration 29 CFR Part 1983 [Docket Number...

Is Your School Y2K-OK?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bates, Martine G.

1999-01-01

The most vulnerable Y2K areas for schools are networked computers, free-standing personal computers, software, and embedded chips in utilities such as telephones and fire alarms. Expensive, time-consuming procedures and software have been developed for testing and bringing most computers into compliance. Districts need a triage prioritization…

Assessing Learning Gains in Political Science

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Axelrod, Robert

1976-01-01

Discusses the systematic assessment of student learning gains by means of pretest and posttest comparisons. This type of assessment is found to be a time consuming procedure but can be a valuable guide to teaching effectiveness when studied in conjunction with a questionnaire which provides feedback about students' opinions. (DB)

Evaluation of initial subgrade variability on the Ohio SHRP test road : interim report for continued monitoring of instrumented pavement in Ohio.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-01-01

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) currently uses density and moisture measured with a nuclear density gauge as the principal criteria for approving subgrade construction in Ohio. This procedure is time consuming, thereby restricting the nu...

Sea Stories: A Collaborative Tool for Articulating Tactical Knowledge.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Radtke, Paul H.; Frey, Paul R.

Having subject matter experts (SMEs) identify the skills and knowledge to be taught is among the more difficult and time-consuming steps in the training development process. A procedure has been developed for identifying specific tactical decision-making knowledge requirements and translating SME knowledge into appropriate multimedia…

12 CFR 267.5 - Meetings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Meetings. 267.5 Section 267.5 Banks and Banking... AND PROCEDURE OF THE CONSUMER ADVISORY COUNCIL § 267.5 Meetings. (a) Time. Meetings of the Council...) Agenda. Each meeting of the Council shall be conducted in accordance with an agenda formulated or...

Determination of Caffeine in Beverages by Capillary Zone Electrophoresis: An Experiment for the Undergraduate Analytical Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Conte, Eric D.; Barry, Eugene F.; Rubinstein, Harry

1996-12-01

Certain individuals may be sensitive to specific compounds in comsumer products. It is important to quantify these analytes in food products in order to monitor their intake. Caffeine is one such compound. Determination of caffeine in beverages by spectrophotometric procedures requires an extraction procedure, which can prove time-consuming. Although the corresponding determination by HPLC allows for a direct injection, capillary zone electrophoresis provides several advantages such as extremely low solvent consumption, smaller sample volume requirements, and improved sensitivity.

New procedure speeds cold start, protects turbine

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

Mallard, R.E.; Jordan, C.A.

1995-09-01

System dispatch from today`s power plants must consider availability of purchase power (buy and sell), fuel prices, and unit availability and efficiency. To gain the best combination of these factors, steam units must be capable of quick removal and return to service. However, unit startups are expensive, time consuming nd operationally demanding. For example, excessive thermal stresses can be catastrophic to a unit. With those factors in mind, Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) developed the ``valve open start`` procedure described here.

Colonoscopy procedure simulation: virtual reality training based on a real time computational approach.

PubMed

Wen, Tingxi; Medveczky, David; Wu, Jackie; Wu, Jianhuang

2018-01-25

Colonoscopy plays an important role in the clinical screening and management of colorectal cancer. The traditional 'see one, do one, teach one' training style for such invasive procedure is resource intensive and ineffective. Given that colonoscopy is difficult, and time-consuming to master, the use of virtual reality simulators to train gastroenterologists in colonoscopy operations offers a promising alternative. In this paper, a realistic and real-time interactive simulator for training colonoscopy procedure is presented, which can even include polypectomy simulation. Our approach models the colonoscopy as thick flexible elastic rods with different resolutions which are dynamically adaptive to the curvature of the colon. More material characteristics of this deformable material are integrated into our discrete model to realistically simulate the behavior of the colonoscope. We present a simulator for training colonoscopy procedure. In addition, we propose a set of key aspects of our simulator that give fast, high fidelity feedback to trainees. We also conducted an initial validation of this colonoscopic simulator to determine its clinical utility and efficacy.

Primer on consumer marketing research : procedures, methods, and tools

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-03-01

The Volpe Center developed a marketing research primer which provides a guide to the approach, procedures, and research tools used by private industry in predicting consumer response. The final two chapters of the primer focus on the challenges of do...

Real-time realizations of the Bayesian Infrasonic Source Localization Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pinsky, V.; Arrowsmith, S.; Hofstetter, A.; Nippress, A.

2015-12-01

The Bayesian Infrasonic Source Localization method (BISL), introduced by Mordak et al. (2010) and upgraded by Marcillo et al. (2014) is destined for the accurate estimation of the atmospheric event origin at local, regional and global scales by the seismic and infrasonic networks and arrays. The BISL is based on probabilistic models of the source-station infrasonic signal propagation time, picking time and azimuth estimate merged with a prior knowledge about celerity distribution. It requires at each hypothetical source location, integration of the product of the corresponding source-station likelihood functions multiplied by a prior probability density function of celerity over the multivariate parameter space. The present BISL realization is generally time-consuming procedure based on numerical integration. The computational scheme proposed simplifies the target function so that integrals are taken exactly and are represented via standard functions. This makes the procedure much faster and realizable in real-time without practical loss of accuracy. The procedure executed as PYTHON-FORTRAN code demonstrates high performance on a set of the model and real data.

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

Development of an automated procedure for estimation of the spatial variation of runoff in large river basins

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The use of distributed parameter models to address water resource management problems has increased in recent years. Calibration is necessary to reduce the uncertainties associated with model input parameters. Manual calibration of a distributed parameter model is a very time consuming effort. There...

Final Environmental Assessment for Beddown of 24th Air Force

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-08-01

mulch, straw , plastic netting, or a combination of these protective coverings • Implementation of site grading procedures to limit the time soils are...applied paint. This change was made under the Consumer Safety Act of 1977, P.L. 101-608, as implemented by 16 CFR Part 1303. DOD implemented a ban of

76 FR 56661 - Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for General Service Fluorescent Lamps, General...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-14

... designed to improve energy efficiency and established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products... prescribed or amended under this section must be reasonably designed to produce test results which measure... conservation standards for GSILs which include for the first time minimum rated lifetime requirements that are...

ATS-PD: An Adaptive Testing System for Psychological Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Donadello, Ivan; Spoto, Andrea; Sambo, Francesco; Badaloni, Silvana; Granziol, Umberto; Vidotto, Giulio

2017-01-01

The clinical assessment of mental disorders can be a time-consuming and error-prone procedure, consisting of a sequence of diagnostic hypothesis formulation and testing aimed at restricting the set of plausible diagnoses for the patient. In this article, we propose a novel computerized system for the adaptive testing of psychological disorders.…

77 FR 3559 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Refrigerators...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-25

..., which is typical of an approach enabled by more sophisticated electronic controls. Id. The interim final... and long- time automatic defrost or variable defrost control and adjust the default values of maximum... accurate measurement of the energy use of products with variable defrost control. DATES: The amendments are...

16 CFR 1209.7 - Test procedures for smoldering combustion.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Test procedures for smoldering combustion. 1209.7 Section 1209.7 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... for smoldering combustion. This section provides the test method for determining smoldering combustion...

16 CFR 1209.7 - Test procedures for smoldering combustion.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Test procedures for smoldering combustion. 1209.7 Section 1209.7 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... for smoldering combustion. This section provides the test method for determining smoldering combustion...

16 CFR 1209.7 - Test procedures for smoldering combustion.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Test procedures for smoldering combustion. 1209.7 Section 1209.7 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... for smoldering combustion. This section provides the test method for determining smoldering combustion...

16 CFR 1209.7 - Test procedures for smoldering combustion.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Test procedures for smoldering combustion. 1209.7 Section 1209.7 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... for smoldering combustion. This section provides the test method for determining smoldering combustion...

Microwave-Assisted Rapid Enzymatic Synthesis of Nucleic Acids.

PubMed

Hari Das, Rakha; Ahirwar, Rajesh; Kumar, Saroj; Nahar, Pradip

2016-07-02

Herein we report microwave-induced enhancement of the reactions catalyzed by Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I and avian myeloblastosis virus-reverse transcriptase. The reactions induced by microwaves result in a highly selective synthesis of nucleic acids in 10-50 seconds. In contrast, same reactions failed to give desired reaction products when carried out in the same time periods, but without microwave irradiation. Each of the reactions was carried out for different duration of microwave exposure time to find the optimum reaction time. The products produced by the respective enzyme upon microwave irradiation of the reaction mixtures were identical to that produced by the conventional procedures. As the microwave-assisted reactions are rapid, microwave could be a useful alternative to the conventional and time consuming procedures of enzymatic synthesis of nucleic acids.

Intraoperative ablation of atrial fibrillation - replication of the Cox's maze III procedure with re-usable radiofrequency and cryoablation devices.

PubMed

Patwardhan, Anil

2010-01-01

The cut and sew Cox's maze III procedure is time-consuming. Therefore, various energy sources have been used for ablation, to replace the cut and sew technique. We have used the bipolar radiofrequency output of a standard electrosurgical generator with re-usable forceps for replicating the Cox's maze III procedure from August 1996. In addition, re-usable nitrous oxide based cryoprobe has been used at the atrioventricular valve annuli and on the coronary sinus. The 85.7% cure rate at one year compares with that for surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation using alternative energy sources.

Consumer managed care appeals: are the available procedural protections fundamentally fair?

PubMed

Nevers, A H

2000-01-01

Managed care incentives to reduce costs have also resulted in incentives to deny care. Anecdotes concerning managed care denials of care have led to a consumer outcry for protection either through the use of procedural due process or by the establishment of patient rights that would include appeal and grievance protections. This Article reviews the procedural protections of constitutional due process, the Consumer Due Process Protocol, and the Patient Bill of Rights. The Article then extensively discusses the availability of these procedural protections in various public and private forums. The discussion of public forums includes proposals contained in recent national legislative initiatives. The author then reviews relevant federal and state law, as well as Uniform Law proposals. Next, the Article analyzes the protections provided by accreditation agencies, dispute resolution organizations, professional organizations, and health insurers. Finally, the author recommends criteria to be used to determine whether a procedure is fundamentally fair.

76 FR 2197 - Office of Thrift Supervision

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-12

... consumer reports must employ when a user receives a notice of address discrepancy from a consumer reporting agency (CRA). The regulations describe reasonable policies and procedures for users of consumer reports... obtained a consumer report, and reconcile the address of the consumer with the CRA, if the user establishes...

Price Transparency in the Online Age.

PubMed

Kaplan, Jonathan L; Mills, Parker H

2016-05-01

Plastic surgeons are sometimes hesitant to provide their pricing information online, due to several concerns. However, if implemented right, price transparency can be used as a lead generation tool that provides consumers with the pricing information they want and gives the physician the consumer's contact information for follow-up. This study took place during the author's first year in private practice in a new city. An interactive price transparency platform (ie, cost estimator) was integrated into his website, allowing consumers to submit a "wishlist" of procedures to check pricing on these procedures of interest. However, the consumer must submit their contact information to receive the desired breakdown of costs that are tailored based on the author's medical fees. During that first year, without any advertising expenditure, the author's website received 412 wishlists from 208 unique consumers. Consumers (17.8%) that submitted a wishlist came in for a consultation and 62% of those booked a procedure. The average value of a booked procedure was over US $4000 and cumulatively, all of the leads from this one lead source in that first year generated over US $92,000 in revenue. When compared with non-price-aware patients, price-aware patients were 41% more likely to book a procedure. Price transparency led to greater efficiency and reduced consultations that ended in "sticker shock." When prudently integrated into a medical practice, price transparency can be a great lead generation source for patients that are (1) paying out of pocket for medically necessary services due to a high-deductible health plan or (2) paying for services not typically covered by insurance, such as cosmetic services.

34 CFR 364.58 - What appeal procedures must be available to consumers?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 34 Education 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What appeal procedures must be available to consumers? 364.58 Section 364.58 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education (Continued) OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE INDEPENDENT LIVING...

34 CFR 364.58 - What appeal procedures must be available to consumers?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 34 Education 2 2011-07-01 2010-07-01 true What appeal procedures must be available to consumers? 364.58 Section 364.58 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education (Continued) OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE INDEPENDENT LIVING...

12 CFR 227.2 - Consumer-complaint procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Consumer-complaint procedure. 227.2 Section 227.2 Banks and Banking FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM (CONTINUED) BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM (CONTINUED) UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE ACTS OR PRACTICES (REGULATION AA) General Provisions § 227.2...

12 CFR 227.2 - Consumer-complaint procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Consumer-complaint procedure. 227.2 Section 227.2 Banks and Banking FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM (CONTINUED) BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM (CONTINUED) UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE ACTS OR PRACTICES (REGULATION AA) General Provisions § 227.2...

Magnetic scavengers as carriers of analytes for flowing atmospheric pressure afterglow mass spectrometry (FAPA-MS).

PubMed

Cegłowski, Michał; Kurczewska, Joanna; Smoluch, Marek; Reszke, Edward; Silberring, Jerzy; Schroeder, Grzegorz

2015-09-07

In this paper, a procedure for the preconcentration and transport of mixtures of acids, bases, and drug components to a mass spectrometer using magnetic scavengers is presented. Flowing atmospheric pressure afterglow mass spectrometry (FAPA-MS) was used as an analytical method for identification of the compounds by thermal desorption from the scavengers. The proposed procedure is fast and cheap, and does not involve time-consuming purification steps. The developed methodology can be applied for trapping harmful substances in minute quantities, to transport them to specialized, remotely located laboratories.

Critical evaluation of sample pretreatment techniques.

PubMed

Hyötyläinen, Tuulia

2009-06-01

Sample preparation before chromatographic separation is the most time-consuming and error-prone part of the analytical procedure. Therefore, selecting and optimizing an appropriate sample preparation scheme is a key factor in the final success of the analysis, and the judicious choice of an appropriate procedure greatly influences the reliability and accuracy of a given analysis. The main objective of this review is to critically evaluate the applicability, disadvantages, and advantages of various sample preparation techniques. Particular emphasis is placed on extraction techniques suitable for both liquid and solid samples.

A Flexible Toolkit Supporting Knowledge-based Tactical Planning for Ground Forces

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-01

assigned to each of the Special Areas to model its temporal behaviour . In Figure 5 an optimal path going over two defined intermediate points is...which area can be reached by an armoured infantry platoon within a given time interval, which path should be taken by a support unit to minimize...al. 2008]. Although trained commanders and staff personnel may achieve very accurate planning results, time consuming procedures are excluded when

New fixation method for maxillary distraction osteogenesis using locking attachments.

PubMed

Suzuki, Eduardo Yugo; Buranastidporn, Boonsiva; Ishii, Masatoshi

2006-10-01

The external traction hooks of the intraoral splint used in the rigid external distraction (RED) system for maxillary distraction osteogenesis interfere with the surgical procedures. The purpose of this study is to introduce an innovative splint fixation method for maxillary distraction osteogenesis with Locking Attachments and evaluate their advantages, such as reduction of operating time compared with the traditional intraoral splint method. Retrospective comparison of operative times of maxillary Le Fort I osteotomy procedures was carried out with the traditional protocol using the intraoral splint cemented to the maxillary dentition (n = 14), and a removable intraoral splint that is inserted postsurgically (n = 14). Operative procedure times were compared and analyzed statistically using the data extracted from the surgical records. There were no complications inserting the removable splint postsurgically, including pain, discomfort, or time-consuming procedure. Stable and secure splint fixation was obtained before the distraction procedure and the desired treatment goals were obtained in all patients. The total operative procedure times were significantly reduced in the Locking Attachments group by 24% to 41% (approximately 65 minutes) compared with earlier operations involving the conventional splints (P < .05). Maxillary distraction osteogenesis with the Locking Attachments is a highly effective fixation approach to manage severe hypoplastic maxilla, eliminating lip constraints resulting from scarring and allowing for easier, more deliberate and careful dissection. The use of the Locking Attachments is reliable in craniofacial surgery and has proved to be advantageous in the reduction of the operating time and surgical risks.

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. (a) Retailer...

Explorers, Detectives, Matchmakers, and Lion Tamers: Understanding Jigsaw Puzzlers' Techniques and Motivations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garcia, Angela Cora

2013-01-01

Why do people enjoy jigsaw puzzles, which--challenging and time-consuming as they are--might be considered more like work than play? The author investigates the motivations, preferences, and satisfactions of individuals working on jigsaw puzzles, and she explores how these elements of play relate to the procedures and strategies puzzlers use to…

Leisure Time Safety: Fun, Fun, Fun! Proceed with Caution: Consumer Safety in the Home, VI.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saskatchewan Consumer and Commercial Affairs, Regina.

Exercising caution during recreational activities will ensure that vacations and holidays do not result in tragedy. This booklet outlines some of the activities that require caution. Proper procedures for cycling--including the use of all terrain vehicles (ATVs), roller skating, and skateboarding are illustrated. Swimming can continue to be…

16 CFR 1013.6 - Public availability of transcripts, recordings and minutes of Commission meetings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...) through (10) of § 1013.4 need not be made available to the public. (b) Procedures for making available... Commission for decision. In that event, the Commission decision shall be made within the time limits set... attention of the Chairman, Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C. 20207. (ii) The Commission...

A Quick and Simple Conversion of Carboxylic Acids into Their Anilides of Heating with Phenyl Isothiocyanate.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ram, Ram N.; And Others

1983-01-01

Converting carboxylic acids into their anilides, which usually involves preparation of acid chloride or mixed anhydride followed by treatment with aniline, is tedious and/or time-consuming. A quick and easier procedure, using phenyl isothiocyanate, is provided. Reactions involved and a summary table of results are included. (JN)

Rating effectiveness of herbicides in desiccating woody vegetation

Treesearch

Jay R. Bentley; Charles A. Graham

1976-01-01

When the effectiveness of herbicide desiccants for killing and drying woody vegetation on many small test plots is rated, the standard procedures for collecting fuel moisture samples are time consuming and costly. Also, the field data often must be recorded when weather is not suitable for collecting moisture content samples. To overcome these limitations, a new...

Leyla loop: a time-saving suture technique for robotic atrial closure

PubMed Central

Kılıç, Leyla; Şenay, Şahin; Ümit Güllü, A.; Alhan, Cem

2013-01-01

The longer durations of cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times remain the disadvantages of robotic or minimally invasive cardiac surgery. For this reason, every small contribution to speeding up these procedures is of the utmost importance. Here, we present a practical, easy and time-saving suture technique for atrial closure. It consists of a hand-made loop at one end of the suture and saves the time otherwise consumed by knotting. It may also be used during conventional or minimally invasive cardiac surgery. PMID:23760357

Blood Sampling in Newborns: A Systematic Review of YouTube Videos.

PubMed

Bueno, Mariana; Nishi, Érika Tihemi; Costa, Taine; Freire, Laís Machado; Harrison, Denise

Objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of YouTube videos showing neonatal blood sampling, and to evaluate pain management and comforting interventions used. Selected videos were consumer- or professional-produced videos showing human newborns undergoing heel lancing or venipuncture for blood sampling, videos showing the entire blood sampling procedure (from the first attempt or puncture to the time of application of a cotton ball or bandage), publication date prior to October 2014, Portuguese titles, available audio. Search terms included "neonate," "newborn," "neonatal screening," and "blood collection." Two reviewers independently screened the videos and extracted the following data. A total of 13 140 videos were retrieved, of which 1354 were further evaluated, and 68 were included. Videos were mostly consumer produced (97%). Heel lancing was performed in 62 (91%). Forty-nine infants (72%) were held by an adult during the procedure. Median pain score immediately after puncture was 4 (interquartile range [IQR] = 0-5), and median length of cry throughout the procedure was 61 seconds (IQR = 88). Breastfeeding (3%) and swaddling (1.5%) were rarely implemented. Posted YouTube videos in Portuguese of newborns undergoing blood collection demonstrate minimal use of pain treatment, and maximal distress during procedures. Knowledge translation strategies are needed to implement effective measures for neonatal pain relief and comfort.

77 FR 74559 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Water Heaters...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-17

... fossil fuel as applicable to a given water heater. Specifically, the standby loss testing in the existing... important to note that fossil-fueled direct heating equipment and pool heaters typically consume both fossil... procedures for direct heating equipment, fossil-fuel energy consumption is accounted for comprehensively over...

76 FR 61999 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Furnaces and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-06

... for Residential Furnaces and Boilers (Standby Mode and Off Mode); Correction AGENCY: Office of Energy... Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Furnaces and Boilers. This correction provides the... page 56339, in the third column after ``2. E- mail:'' the e-mail address should read `` FurnaceBoiler...

75 FR 71355 - Collection of Information Requirement Related to Procedures for the Handling of Retaliation...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-23

... Handling of Retaliation Complaints Under Section 219 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008... Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) (75 FR 53533). In the August 31, 2010 notice, OSHA... Procedures for the Handling of Retaliation Complaints Under Section 219 of the Consumer Product Safety...

Rotary endodontics in primary teeth – A review

PubMed Central

George, Sageena; Anandaraj, S.; Issac, Jyoti S.; John, Sheen A.; Harris, Anoop

2015-01-01

Endodontic treatment in primary teeth can be challenging and time consuming, especially during canal preparation, which is considered one of the most important steps in root canal therapy. The conventional instrumentation technique for primary teeth remains the “gold-standard” over hand instrumentation, which makes procedures much more time consuming and adversely affects both clinicians and patients. Recently nickel–titanium (Ni–Ti) rotary files have been developed for use in pediatric endodontics. Using rotary instruments for primary tooth pulpectomies is cost effective and results in fills that are consistently uniform and predictable. This article reviews the use of nickel–titanium rotary files as root canal instrumentation in primary teeth. The pulpectomy technique is described here according to different authors and the advantages and disadvantages of using rotary files are discussed. PMID:26792964

Rotary endodontics in primary teeth - A review.

PubMed

George, Sageena; Anandaraj, S; Issac, Jyoti S; John, Sheen A; Harris, Anoop

2016-01-01

Endodontic treatment in primary teeth can be challenging and time consuming, especially during canal preparation, which is considered one of the most important steps in root canal therapy. The conventional instrumentation technique for primary teeth remains the "gold-standard" over hand instrumentation, which makes procedures much more time consuming and adversely affects both clinicians and patients. Recently nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) rotary files have been developed for use in pediatric endodontics. Using rotary instruments for primary tooth pulpectomies is cost effective and results in fills that are consistently uniform and predictable. This article reviews the use of nickel-titanium rotary files as root canal instrumentation in primary teeth. The pulpectomy technique is described here according to different authors and the advantages and disadvantages of using rotary files are discussed.

Increasingly automated procedure acquisition in dynamic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mathe, Nathalie; Kedar, Smadar

1992-01-01

Procedures are widely used by operators for controlling complex dynamic systems. Currently, most development of such procedures is done manually, consuming a large amount of paper, time, and manpower in the process. While automated knowledge acquisition is an active field of research, not much attention has been paid to the problem of computer-assisted acquisition and refinement of complex procedures for dynamic systems. The Procedure Acquisition for Reactive Control Assistant (PARC), which is designed to assist users in more systematically and automatically encoding and refining complex procedures. PARC is able to elicit knowledge interactively from the user during operation of the dynamic system. We categorize procedure refinement into two stages: diagnosis - diagnose the failure and choose a repair - and repair - plan and perform the repair. The basic approach taken in PARC is to assist the user in all steps of this process by providing increased levels of assistance with layered tools. We illustrate the operation of PARC in refining procedures for the control of a robot arm.

15 CFR 16.12 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Consumer education. 16.12 Section 16.12 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY CONSUMER PRODUCT INFORMATION LABELING PROGRAM § 16.12 Consumer education. The Secretary, in close cooperation and...

15 CFR 16.12 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Consumer education. 16.12 Section 16.12 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY CONSUMER PRODUCT INFORMATION LABELING PROGRAM § 16.12 Consumer education. The Secretary, in close cooperation and...

15 CFR 16.12 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Consumer education. 16.12 Section 16.12 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY CONSUMER PRODUCT INFORMATION LABELING PROGRAM § 16.12 Consumer education. The Secretary, in close cooperation and...

15 CFR 16.12 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Consumer education. 16.12 Section 16.12 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY CONSUMER PRODUCT INFORMATION LABELING PROGRAM § 16.12 Consumer education. The Secretary, in close cooperation and...

15 CFR 16.12 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Consumer education. 16.12 Section 16.12 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY CONSUMER PRODUCT INFORMATION LABELING PROGRAM § 16.12 Consumer education. The Secretary, in close cooperation and...

77 FR 51025 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection Renewal; Comment Request (3064-0161)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-23

... a consumer report based on a direct request from a consumer. Request for Comment Comments are... information: Title: Procedures to Enhance the Accuracy and Integrity of Information Furnished to Consumer... received directly from consumers 8 hours to implement the new dispute notice requirement. Estimated burden...

77 FR 65883 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-31

... a consumer report based on a direct request from a consumer. Request for Comment Comments are...: Procedures to Enhance the Accuracy and Integrity of Information Furnished to Consumer Reporting Agencies... complaints received directly from consumers. 8 hours to implement the new dispute notice requirement...

Consumer protection and managed care: the need for organized consumers.

PubMed

Rodwin, M A

1996-01-01

Despite its many advantages, managed care creates new problems for consumers. Activists have proposed four types of remedies: (1) increased information and choice; (2) standards for services and marketing; (3) administrative oversight; and (4) procedural due process for complaints. Each approach offers some benefits, but they are insufficient to cope with consumer problems. What is lacking is effective, organized consumer advocacy.

Automatic sample changer control software for automation of neutron activation analysis process in Malaysian Nuclear Agency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yussup, N.; Ibrahim, M. M.; Rahman, N. A. A.; Mokhtar, M.; Salim, N. A. A.; Soh@Shaari, S. C.; Azman, A.; Lombigit, L.; Azman, A.; Omar, S. A.

2018-01-01

Most of the procedures in neutron activation analysis (NAA) process that has been established in Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuclear Malaysia) since 1980s were performed manually. These manual procedures carried out by the NAA laboratory personnel are time consuming and inefficient especially for sample counting and measurement process. The sample needs to be changed and the measurement software needs to be setup for every one hour counting time. Both of these procedures are performed manually for every sample. Hence, an automatic sample changer system (ASC) that consists of hardware and software is developed to automate sample counting process for up to 30 samples consecutively. This paper describes the ASC control software for NAA process which is designed and developed to control the ASC hardware and call GammaVision software for sample measurement. The software is developed by using National Instrument LabVIEW development package.

Controversy of hand-assisted laparoscopic colorectal surgery

PubMed Central

Meshikhes, Abdul-Wahed Nasir

2010-01-01

Laparoscopically assisted colorectal procedures are time-consuming and technically demanding and hence have a long steep learning curve. In the technical demand, surgeons need to handle a long mobile organ, the colon, and have to operate on multiple abdominal quadrants, most of the time with the need to secure multiple mesenteric vessels. Therefore, a new surgical innovation called hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) was introduced in the mid 1990s as a useful alternative to totally laparoscopic procedures. This hybrid operation allows the surgeon to introduce the non-dominant hand into the abdominal cavity through a special hand port while maintaining the pneumoperitoneum. A hand in the abdomen can restore the tactile sensation which is usually lacking in laparoscopic procedures. It also improves the eye-to-hand coordination, allows the hand to be used for blunt dissection or retraction and also permits rapid control of unexpected bleeding. All of those factors can contribute tremendously to reducing the operative time. Moreover, this procedure is also considered as a hybrid procedure that combines the advantages of both minimally invasive and conventional open surgery. Nevertheless, the exact role of HALS in colorectal surgery has not been well defined during the advanced totally laparoscopic procedures. This article reviews the current status of hand-assisted laparoscopic colorectal surgery as a minimally invasive procedure in the era of laparoscopic surgery. PMID:21128315

16 CFR 640.4 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... credit to a consumer for the purpose of financing the purchase of an automobile from an auto dealer or... section, § 640.5(e)(3), or § 640.5(f)(4), as applicable; or (ii) Arranges to have the auto dealer or other...), as applicable, and maintains reasonable policies and procedures to verify that the auto dealer or...

16 CFR 640.4 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... credit to a consumer for the purpose of financing the purchase of an automobile from an auto dealer or... section, § 640.5(e)(3), or § 640.5(f)(4), as applicable; or (ii) Arranges to have the auto dealer or other...), as applicable, and maintains reasonable policies and procedures to verify that the auto dealer or...

12 CFR 1022.73 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... an auto dealer or other party that is not affiliated with the person, any requirement to provide a...) Arranges to have the auto dealer or other party provide a notice described in § 1022.72(a), § 1022.74(e... policies and procedures to verify that the auto dealer or other party provides such notice to the consumer...

16 CFR 640.4 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... credit to a consumer for the purpose of financing the purchase of an automobile from an auto dealer or... section, § 640.5(e)(3), or § 640.5(f)(4), as applicable; or (ii) Arranges to have the auto dealer or other...), as applicable, and maintains reasonable policies and procedures to verify that the auto dealer or...

16 CFR 640.4 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... credit to a consumer for the purpose of financing the purchase of an automobile from an auto dealer or... section, § 640.5(e)(3), or § 640.5(f)(4), as applicable; or (ii) Arranges to have the auto dealer or other...), as applicable, and maintains reasonable policies and procedures to verify that the auto dealer or...

Screening Technique for Lead and Cadmium in Toys and Other Materials Using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brouwer, Henry

2005-01-01

A simple procedure to quickly screen different consumer products for the presence of lead, cadmium, and other metals is described. This screening technique avoids expending a lot of preparation time on samples known to contain low levels of hazardous metals where only samples testing positive for the desired elements need to be analyzed…

Thematic and positional accuracy assessment of digital remotely sensed data

Treesearch

Russell G. Congalton

2007-01-01

Accuracy assessment or validation has become a standard component of any land cover or vegetation map derived from remotely sensed data. Knowing the accuracy of the map is vital to any decisionmaking performed using that map. The process of assessing the map accuracy is time consuming and expensive. It is very important that the procedure be well thought out and...

7 CFR 1209.36 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Mushroom Council...

7 CFR 1209.36 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Mushroom Council...

7 CFR 1209.36 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Mushroom Council...

7 CFR 1209.36 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Mushroom Council...

7 CFR 1209.36 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Mushroom Council...

24 CFR 3282.402 - General principles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling.... (e) It is the policy of these regulations that all consumer complaints or other information... result of normal year and aging, gross and unforeseeable consumer abuse, or unforeseeable neglect of...

24 CFR 3282.402 - General principles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling.... (e) It is the policy of these regulations that all consumer complaints or other information... result of normal year and aging, gross and unforeseeable consumer abuse, or unforeseeable neglect of...

24 CFR 3282.402 - General principles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling.... (e) It is the policy of these regulations that all consumer complaints or other information... result of normal year and aging, gross and unforeseeable consumer abuse, or unforeseeable neglect of...

75 FR 67609 - Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order; Reapportionment

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-03

... practice and procedure, Advertising, Consumer information, Marketing agreements, Popcorn promotion...-10-0010] Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order; Reapportionment AGENCY: Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: This rule amends the Popcorn Promotion...

Alignment of high-throughput sequencing data inside in-memory databases.

PubMed

Firnkorn, Daniel; Knaup-Gregori, Petra; Lorenzo Bermejo, Justo; Ganzinger, Matthias

2014-01-01

In times of high-throughput DNA sequencing techniques, performance-capable analysis of DNA sequences is of high importance. Computer supported DNA analysis is still an intensive time-consuming task. In this paper we explore the potential of a new In-Memory database technology by using SAP's High Performance Analytic Appliance (HANA). We focus on read alignment as one of the first steps in DNA sequence analysis. In particular, we examined the widely used Burrows-Wheeler Aligner (BWA) and implemented stored procedures in both, HANA and the free database system MySQL, to compare execution time and memory management. To ensure that the results are comparable, MySQL has been running in memory as well, utilizing its integrated memory engine for database table creation. We implemented stored procedures, containing exact and inexact searching of DNA reads within the reference genome GRCh37. Due to technical restrictions in SAP HANA concerning recursion, the inexact matching problem could not be implemented on this platform. Hence, performance analysis between HANA and MySQL was made by comparing the execution time of the exact search procedures. Here, HANA was approximately 27 times faster than MySQL which means, that there is a high potential within the new In-Memory concepts, leading to further developments of DNA analysis procedures in the future.

77 FR 59452 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Information Collection; Submission for OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-27

... regulations providing guidance regarding what reasonable policies and procedures a user of consumer reports... users of consumer reports to: \\2\\ As noted above, these regulations have been transferred to the CFPB... obtained a consumer report, and Reconcile the address of the consumer with the CRA, if the user establishes...

An automatic identification procedure to promote the use of FES-cycling training for hemiparetic patients.

PubMed

Ambrosini, Emilia; Ferrante, Simona; Schauer, Thomas; Ferrigno, Giancarlo; Molteni, Franco; Pedrocchi, Alessandra

2014-01-01

Cycling induced by Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) training currently requires a manual setting of different parameters, which is a time-consuming and scarcely repeatable procedure. We proposed an automatic procedure for setting session-specific parameters optimized for hemiparetic patients. This procedure consisted of the identification of the stimulation strategy as the angular ranges during which FES drove the motion, the comparison between the identified strategy and the physiological muscular activation strategy, and the setting of the pulse amplitude and duration of each stimulated muscle. Preliminary trials on 10 healthy volunteers helped define the procedure. Feasibility tests on 8 hemiparetic patients (5 stroke, 3 traumatic brain injury) were performed. The procedure maximized the motor output within the tolerance constraint, identified a biomimetic strategy in 6 patients, and always lasted less than 5 minutes. Its reasonable duration and automatic nature make the procedure usable at the beginning of every training session, potentially enhancing the performance of FES-cycling training.

Cost analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic general surgery procedures.

PubMed

Higgins, Rana M; Frelich, Matthew J; Bosler, Matthew E; Gould, Jon C

2017-01-01

Robotic surgical systems have been used at a rapidly increasing rate in general surgery. Many of these procedures have been performed laparoscopically for years. In a surgical encounter, a significant portion of the total costs is associated with consumable supplies. Our hospital system has invested in a software program that can track the costs of consumable surgical supplies. We sought to determine the differences in cost of consumables with elective laparoscopic and robotic procedures for our health care organization. De-identified procedural cost and equipment utilization data were collected from the Surgical Profitability Compass Procedure Cost Manager System (The Advisory Board Company, Washington, DC) for our health care system for laparoscopic and robotic cholecystectomy, fundoplication, and inguinal hernia between the years 2013 and 2015. Outcomes were length of stay, case duration, and supply cost. Statistical analysis was performed using a t-test for continuous variables, and statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. The total cost of consumable surgical supplies was significantly greater for all robotic procedures. Length of stay did not differ for fundoplication or cholecystectomy. Length of stay was greater for robotic inguinal hernia repair. Case duration was similar for cholecystectomy (84.3 robotic and 75.5 min laparoscopic, p = 0.08), but significantly longer for robotic fundoplication (197.2 robotic and 162.1 min laparoscopic, p = 0.01) and inguinal hernia repair (124.0 robotic and 84.4 min laparoscopic, p = ≪0.01). We found a significantly increased cost of general surgery procedures for our health care system when cases commonly performed laparoscopically are instead performed robotically. Our analysis is limited by the fact that we only included costs associated with consumable surgical supplies. The initial acquisition cost (over $1 million for robotic surgical system), depreciation, and service contract for the robotic and laparoscopic systems were not included in this analysis.

[Small amounts of milk added to coffee or tea can be allowed before surgery].

PubMed

Miranda, Kenia S; Kristensen, Billy B

2018-03-26

The ingestion of milk is not allowed within six hours before elective procedures requiring anaesthesia or sedation, because milk is considered a solid food. However, the impact of milk suspended in coffee or tea consumed up to two hours before anaesthesia is less certain, yet fasting guidelines demand surgery to be delayed or rescheduled. Studies investigating ingestion of liquids with small amounts of milk have not demonstrated delayed emptying of the stomach, thereby increasing the risk of aspiration in elective procedures. Maybe it is time to adjust the fasting recommendations.

Polarographic determination of tungsten in rocks

USGS Publications Warehouse

Reichen, L.E.

1954-01-01

This work was undertaken to develop a simpler and faster method than the classical gravimetric procedure for the determination of tungsten in rocks and ores. A new polarographic wave of tungsten is obtained in a supporting electrolyte of dilute hydrochloric acid containing tartrate ion. This permits the determination of tungsten both rapidly and accurately. No precipitation of the tungsten is necessary, and only the iron need be separated from the tungsten. The accuracy is within the limits of a polarographic procedure; comparison of polarographic and gravimetric results is given. The method reduces appreciably the amount of time ordinarily consumed in determination of tungsten.

29 CFR 1983.101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... other than Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal holidays. (c) Commission means the Consumer Product Safety... filed. (e) (1) Consumer product means any article, or component part thereof, produced or distributed...

29 CFR 1983.101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... other than Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal holidays. (c) Commission means the Consumer Product Safety... filed. (e) (1) Consumer product means any article, or component part thereof, produced or distributed...

Risks and opportunities for plastic surgeons in a widening cosmetic medicine market: future demand, consumer preferences, and trends in practitioners' services.

PubMed

D'Amico, Richard A; Saltz, Renato; Rohrich, Rod J; Kinney, Brian; Haeck, Phillip; Gold, Alan H; Singer, Robert; Jewell, Mark L; Eaves, Felmont

2008-05-01

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery launched a joint Cosmetic Medicine Task Force to address the growing trend of non-plastic surgeons entering the cosmetic medicine field. The task force commissioned two surveys in 2007 to determine consumer attitudes about choosing cosmetic medicine providers and to learn about the cosmetic services that plastic surgeons offer. The first survey obtained responses from 1015 women who had undergone a cosmetic procedure or were considering having one within 2 years. The second survey obtained responses from 260 members of the two societies. Compared with other practitioners, plastic surgeons enjoy higher rates of satisfaction among their patients who undergo noninvasive procedures. Injectables present a particularly promising market for plastic surgeons. Half of consumers surveyed said they were very concerned about complications associated with injectables, and generally, the higher the perceived risk of the procedure, the higher the likelihood that a patient would choose a plastic surgeon to perform it. In addition, injectables were among the noninvasive treatments most frequently being considered by consumers. However, almost half of consumers said that if they had a positive experience with a non-plastic surgeon core provider for a noninvasive procedure, that physician would likely be their first choice for a surgical procedure. These findings suggest that plastic surgeons, and especially those who are building young practices, must expand their offerings of nonsurgical cosmetic services to remain at the core of the cosmetic medicine field.

7 CFR 1215.27 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE POPCORN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Popcorn Board § 1215.27...

7 CFR 1215.27 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE POPCORN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Popcorn Board § 1215.27...

7 CFR 1215.27 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE POPCORN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Popcorn Board § 1215.27...

7 CFR 1215.27 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE POPCORN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Popcorn Board § 1215.27...

7 CFR 1215.27 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE POPCORN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order Popcorn Board § 1215.27...

Current trends and challenges in sample preparation for metallic nanoparticles analysis in daily products and environmental samples: A review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De la Calle, Inmaculada; Menta, Mathieu; Séby, Fabienne

2016-11-01

Due to the increasing use of nanoparticles (NPs) in consumer products, it becomes necessary to develop different strategies for their detection, identification, characterization and quantification in a wide variety of samples. Since the analysis of NPs in consumer products and environmental samples is particularly troublesome, a detailed description of challenges and limitations is given here. This review mainly focuses on sample preparation procedures applied for the mostly used techniques for metallic and metal oxide NPs characterization in consumer products and most outstanding publications of biological and environmental samples (from 2006 to 2015). We summarize the procedures applied for total metal content, extraction/separation and/or preconcentration of NPs from the matrix, separation of metallic NPs from their ions or from larger particles and NPs' size fractionation. Sample preparation procedures specifically for microscopy are also described. Selected applications in cosmetics, food, other consumer products, biological tissues and environmental samples are presented. Advantages and inconveniences of those procedures are considered. Moreover, selected simplified schemes for NPs sample preparation, as well as usual techniques applied are included. Finally, promising directions for further investigations are discussed.

Ethical review of human experimentation in the consumer products industry.

PubMed

Steadman, J H

1998-04-01

Ethical review of human experimentation in the consumer products industry is important and provides instructive parallels and contrasts with clinical medical research. The procedures used in Unilever NV/plc are described. A central body sets standards for and monitors compliance with ethical review of human studies throughout Unilever. Guidance has been produced on many topics including issues applying generally to human experimentation and more specifically to the consumer products sector. Deficiencies and inconsistencies in the procedures for ethical review and the care of subjects during the conduct of studies have been identified and corrected. Appropriate uniform standards have been achieved across all Unilever operations. All human experimentation in the industry needs adequate ethical review. Although the methods used by individual companies may differ, procedures must ensure uniform high standards across a global industry.

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

16 CFR 1014.12 - Specific exemptions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... related injuries reported to the Commission by selected hospital emergency rooms, by consumers through the Commission's “Hot-Line” telephone service and through written consumer complaints and by other means such as... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES IMPLEMENTING THE...

16 CFR 1014.12 - Specific exemptions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... related injuries reported to the Commission by selected hospital emergency rooms, by consumers through the Commission's “Hot-Line” telephone service and through written consumer complaints and by other means such as... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES IMPLEMENTING THE...

16 CFR § 1014.12 - Specific exemptions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... product related injuries reported to the Commission by selected hospital emergency rooms, by consumers through the Commission's “Hot-Line” telephone service and through written consumer complaints and by other...§ 1014.12 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES...

16 CFR 1014.12 - Specific exemptions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... related injuries reported to the Commission by selected hospital emergency rooms, by consumers through the Commission's “Hot-Line” telephone service and through written consumer complaints and by other means such as... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES IMPLEMENTING THE...

16 CFR 1118.20 - Procedures for consent order agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

.... 1118.20 Section 1118.20 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS INVESTIGATIONS, INSPECTIONS AND INQUIRIES UNDER THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT... Commission's regulations relating to substantial product hazards (16 CFR part 1115). For all other consent...

The Michigan Consumer Protection Act of 1976. Consumer Education Training Module.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Monsma, Charles

This guide for secondary teachers is designed to identify and illustrate specified illegal practices identified in the Michigan Consumer Protection Act of 1976. The guide also explains procedures that a consumer or law-enforcement agency can take to enforce the provisions of this law. Since the act is a broad one, students learn not only about…

Redress of Consumer Grievances. Report of the National Institute for Consumer Justice.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Consumer Justice, Washington, DC.

The document is a report on the adequacy of existing procedures for resolving disputes arising out of consumer transactions. It is primarily concerned with problems of the consumer who receives defective goods or services and so suffers economic loss. Focusing on four types of dispute resolution, the document presents its findings and…

Finite element design procedure for correcting the coining die profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alexandrino, Paulo; Leitão, Paulo J.; Alves, Luis M.; Martins, Paulo A. F.

2018-05-01

This paper presents a new finite element based design procedure for correcting the coining die profiles in order to optimize the distribution of pressure and the alignment of the resultant vertical force at the end of the die stroke. The procedure avoids time consuming and costly try-outs, does not interfere with the creative process of the sculptors and extends the service life of the coining dies by significantly decreasing the applied pressure and bending moments. The numerical simulations were carried out in a computer program based on the finite element flow formulation that is currently being developed by the authors in collaboration with the Portuguese Mint. A new experimental procedure based on the stack compression test is also proposed for determining the stress-strain curve of the materials directly from the coin blanks.

Numerical Procedures for the Calculation of the Stresses in Monocoques. 3 - Calculation of the Bending Moments in Fuselage Frames

DTIC Science & Technology

1946-04-01

volved in the preceding calculations. It is well to check the reeulta. A repetition of all the computatlone would be very time consuming ...CONVENTION. ic ic FIG. 7 POSITIVE FORCES AND MOMENTS AT POINT B. ;?; •* * *> • ,, - --;-•••’ •-**-- • •’:•••••,. ~ wKWJgkii& Kfc . sft

12 CFR 1022.73 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... an auto dealer or other party that is not affiliated with the person, any requirement to provide a... have the auto dealer or other party provide a notice described in §§ 1022.72(a), 1022.74(e), or 1022.74... procedures to verify that the auto dealer or other party provides such notice to the consumer within the...

12 CFR 222.73 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... an auto dealer or other party that is not affiliated with the person, any requirement to provide a... have the auto dealer or other party provide a notice described in §§ 222.72(a), 222.74(e), or 222.74(f... procedures to verify that the auto dealer or other party provides such notice to the consumer within the...

12 CFR 1022.73 - Content, form, and timing of risk-based pricing notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... an auto dealer or other party that is not affiliated with the person, any requirement to provide a... have the auto dealer or other party provide a notice described in §§ 1022.72(a), 1022.74(e), or 1022.74... procedures to verify that the auto dealer or other party provides such notice to the consumer within the...

A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of the Literature to Evaluate Potential Threats to Internal Validity in Probe Procedures for Chained Tasks

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alexander, Jennifer L.; Smith, Katie A.; Mataras, Theologia; Shepley, Sally B.; Ayres, Kevin M.

2015-01-01

The two most frequently used methods for assessing performance on chained tasks are single opportunity probes (SOPs) and multiple opportunity probes (MOPs). Of the two, SOPs may be easier and less time-consuming but can suppress actual performance. In comparison, MOPs can provide more information but present the risk of participants acquiring…

29 CFR 1983.101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... Consumer Product Safety Commission. (d) Complainant means the employee who filed a CPSIA complaint or on whose behalf a complaint was filed. (e)(1) Consumer product means any article, or component part thereof...

29 CFR 1983.101 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY... Consumer Product Safety Commission. (d) Complainant means the employee who filed a CPSIA complaint or on whose behalf a complaint was filed. (e)(1) Consumer product means any article, or component part thereof...

12 CFR 1015.9 - Recordkeeping and compliance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... service functions; (ii) Establishing a procedure for receiving and responding to all consumer complaints; and (iii) Ascertaining the number and nature of consumer complaints regarding transactions in which... consumer complaint received; (3) Take corrective action with respect to any employee or contractor whom the...

12 CFR 1015.9 - Recordkeeping and compliance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... service functions; (ii) Establishing a procedure for receiving and responding to all consumer complaints; and (iii) Ascertaining the number and nature of consumer complaints regarding transactions in which... consumer complaint received; (3) Take corrective action with respect to any employee or contractor whom the...

12 CFR 1015.9 - Recordkeeping and compliance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... service functions; (ii) Establishing a procedure for receiving and responding to all consumer complaints; and (iii) Ascertaining the number and nature of consumer complaints regarding transactions in which... consumer complaint received; (3) Take corrective action with respect to any employee or contractor whom the...

16 CFR 1101.24 - Scope of comments Commission seeks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Section 1101.24 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Procedure for... its evaluation of the accuracy of the information. A firm's submission, therefore, must be specific...

49 CFR 599.100 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE TO RECYCLE AND... implementing the program authorized under the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act of 2009. ...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

49 CFR 599.100 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE TO RECYCLE AND... implementing the program authorized under the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act of 2009. ...

77 FR 39057 - Rules of Practice for Adjudication Proceedings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-29

...The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act requires the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (Bureau) to prescribe rules establishing procedures for the conduct of adjudication proceedings. On July 28, 2011, the Bureau published an interim final rule establishing these procedures with a request for comment. This final rule responds to the comments received by the Bureau and amends the Bureau's regulations accordingly.

Safe and rapid isolation of pulmonary veins using a novel circular ablation catheter and duty-cycled RF generator.

PubMed

Fredersdorf, Sabine; Weber, Stefan; Jilek, Clemens; Heinicke, Norbert; VON Bary, Christian; Jungbauer, Carsten; Riegger, Günter A; Hamer, Okka W; Jeron, Andreas

2009-10-01

Ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) has been one of the most difficult and time-consuming electrophysiological procedures. Due to the rapidly increasing demand for ablation procedures, technical advances would be helpful to reduce complexity and procedure time in AF ablation. Therefore, we investigated the feasibility of a single-catheter technique for pulmonary vein (PV) isolation utilizing a decapolar catheter combined with a duty-cycled, unipolar-bipolar radiofrequency (RF) generator. AF mapping and ablation was performed in 21 consecutive patients (mean age 59 +/- 12 years, 9 males) with paroxysmal AF (n = 17) and persistent AF (n = 4). The ablation catheter was forwarded to the LA via single-transseptal puncture. All electrodes were energized in 2 to 5 applications per vein, followed by segmental RF applications, as needed, to achieve electrical isolation. To assess left atrial anatomy for purposes of catheter manipulation, and later evaluate the possibility of asymptomatic PV-stenosis, CT or MR imaging was performed both prior to ablation and at 6-month follow-up. Isolation could be achieved in 85/86 veins (99%). Procedure time for ablation was 81 +/- 13 minutes, and fluoroscopy time was 30 +/- 11 minutes. There were no procedural complications. Success rate at 6 months was 86% (18/21). MR or CT imaging excluded asymptomatic PV-stenosis. Mapping and ablation of PVs can be performed in a safe and efficient manner using a single-catheter technique, with short procedure times and minimal learning curve. Thus, this system may be of high interest not only for high volume but all centers performing AF ablation.

[Safety of food additives in Japan].

PubMed

Ito, Sumio

2011-01-01

Recently, many accidents relating to food happened in Japan. The consumer's distrust for food, food companies, and the administration is increasing. The consumer especially has an extreme refusal feeling for chemicals such as food additives and agricultural chemicals, and begins to request agricultural chemical-free vegetables and food additive-free food. Food companies also state no agricultural chemicals and no food additives to correspond with consumers' request and aim at differentiating. The food additive is that the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare specifies the one that person's health might not be ruined by providing for Food Sanitation Law Article 10 in our country. The standard for food additives and standard for use of food additives are provided according to regulations of Food Sanitation Law Article 11. Therefore, it is thought that the food additive used is safe now. Then, it reports on the procedure and the safety examination, etc. in our country for designation for food additive this time.

Tolerance Testing for Cooked Porridge made from a Sorghum Based Fortified Blended Food.

PubMed

Chanadang, Sirichat; Chambers, Edgar Iv; Alavi, Sajid

2016-05-01

Products that will be prepared by consumers must be tolerant to various cooking procedures that those consumers may use. Fortified blended foods (FBFs) are used as a source of nutrition for disaster or famine relief in developing countries. Many FBFs are served as porridge and may have a wide of solids content, cooking times and variations in added ingredients. Sorghum is being examined as a potential alternative to wheat and corn based FBF products. This study was intended to evaluate the tolerance to preparation variations for porridge made as a FBF intended for food aid. Whole Sorghum Soy Blend (WSSB), a fortified, extruded, ground cooked cereal was selected as the FBF for this study. Descriptive sensory analysis and Bostwick flow rate measurements were performed to evaluate the tolerance of porridge products made from variations in ingredients and cooking procedures. The results showed that most sensory properties were only marginally affected although some expected large differences in a few sensory properties were found when solids content varied (that is, thickness, adhesiveness) or fruit (banana flavor) was added. Moreover, Bostwick flow rate was a reasonable indicator of thickness characteristics of porridges in some cases, but not in others. Tolerance testing showed that the sensory properties of WSSB had high tolerance to variations in cooking procedures, which means that the product can be modified during preparation by consumers without having a major impact on most sensory properties other than ones they intended to change such as thickness, sweetness, or fruit flavor. © 2016 Institute of Food Technologists®

24 CFR 3282.417 - Recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint... forwarded the relevant consumer complaint or other information to the manufacturer in accordance with § 3282...

Conceptual Design Oriented Wing Structural Analysis and Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lau, May Yuen

1996-01-01

Airplane optimization has always been the goal of airplane designers. In the conceptual design phase, a designer's goal could be tradeoffs between maximum structural integrity, minimum aerodynamic drag, or maximum stability and control, many times achieved separately. Bringing all of these factors into an iterative preliminary design procedure was time consuming, tedious, and not always accurate. For example, the final weight estimate would often be based upon statistical data from past airplanes. The new design would be classified based on gross characteristics, such as number of engines, wingspan, etc., to see which airplanes of the past most closely resembled the new design. This procedure works well for conventional airplane designs, but not very well for new innovative designs. With the computing power of today, new methods are emerging for the conceptual design phase of airplanes. Using finite element methods, computational fluid dynamics, and other computer techniques, designers can make very accurate disciplinary-analyses of an airplane design. These tools are computationally intensive, and when used repeatedly, they consume a great deal of computing time. In order to reduce the time required to analyze a design and still bring together all of the disciplines (such as structures, aerodynamics, and controls) into the analysis, simplified design computer analyses are linked together into one computer program. These design codes are very efficient for conceptual design. The work in this thesis is focused on a finite element based conceptual design oriented structural synthesis capability (CDOSS) tailored to be linked into ACSYNT.

47 CFR 54.410 - Certification and Verification of Consumer Qualification for Lifeline.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Certification and Verification of Consumer... § 54.410 Certification and Verification of Consumer Qualification for Lifeline. (a) Certification of... within that calendar year. (b) Self-certifications. After income certification procedures are implemented...

12 CFR 205.11 - Procedures for resolving errors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... institution's findings and shall note the consumer's right to request the documents that the institution... transfer; (ii) An incorrect electronic fund transfer to or from the consumer's account; (iii) The omission... made by the financial institution relating to an electronic fund transfer; (v) The consumer's receipt...

Consumer Education for the Mentally Handicapped

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alperstein, Neil M.

1977-01-01

Discusses community placement of mentally handicapped people and remedial procedures for encouraging independent decision making and behavior. Intertwines this behavior change with an alternative method of consumer education. (Author/RK)

15 CFR 9.9 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Consumer education. 9.9 Section 9.9 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT TO EFFECT ENERGY CONSERVATION § 9.9 Consumer education. The...

15 CFR 9.9 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Consumer education. 9.9 Section 9.9 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT TO EFFECT ENERGY CONSERVATION § 9.9 Consumer education. The...

15 CFR 9.9 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Consumer education. 9.9 Section 9.9 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT TO EFFECT ENERGY CONSERVATION § 9.9 Consumer education. The...

15 CFR 9.9 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Consumer education. 9.9 Section 9.9 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT TO EFFECT ENERGY CONSERVATION § 9.9 Consumer education. The...

15 CFR 9.9 - Consumer education.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Consumer education. 9.9 Section 9.9 Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT TO EFFECT ENERGY CONSERVATION § 9.9 Consumer education. The...

78 FR 77668 - Certification Reports, Compliance Statements, Application for a Test Procedure Waiver, and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-24

... Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles. The Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles consists of four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation standards, and... Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles DOE requires that manufacturers: (1) Submit...

Automated location detection of injection site for preclinical stereotactic neurosurgery procedure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abbaszadeh, Shiva; Wu, Hemmings C. H.

2017-03-01

Currently, during stereotactic neurosurgery procedures, the manual task of locating the proper area for needle insertion or implantation of electrode/cannula/optic fiber can be time consuming. The requirement of the task is to quickly and accurately find the location for insertion. In this study we investigate an automated method to locate the entry point of region of interest. This method leverages a digital image capture system, pattern recognition, and motorized stages. Template matching of known anatomical identifiable regions is used to find regions of interest (e.g. Bregma) in rodents. For our initial study, we tackle the problem of automatically detecting the entry point.

Probabilistic seismic loss estimation via endurance time method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tafakori, Ehsan; Pourzeynali, Saeid; Estekanchi, Homayoon E.

2017-01-01

Probabilistic Seismic Loss Estimation is a methodology used as a quantitative and explicit expression of the performance of buildings using terms that address the interests of both owners and insurance companies. Applying the ATC 58 approach for seismic loss assessment of buildings requires using Incremental Dynamic Analysis (IDA), which needs hundreds of time-consuming analyses, which in turn hinders its wide application. The Endurance Time Method (ETM) is proposed herein as part of a demand propagation prediction procedure and is shown to be an economical alternative to IDA. Various scenarios were considered to achieve this purpose and their appropriateness has been evaluated using statistical methods. The most precise and efficient scenario was validated through comparison against IDA driven response predictions of 34 code conforming benchmark structures and was proven to be sufficiently precise while offering a great deal of efficiency. The loss values were estimated by replacing IDA with the proposed ETM-based procedure in the ATC 58 procedure and it was found that these values suffer from varying inaccuracies, which were attributed to the discretized nature of damage and loss prediction functions provided by ATC 58.

High-speed technique based on a parallel projection correlation procedure for digital image correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaripov, D. I.; Renfu, Li

2018-05-01

The implementation of high-efficiency digital image correlation methods based on a zero-normalized cross-correlation (ZNCC) procedure for high-speed, time-resolved measurements using a high-resolution digital camera is associated with big data processing and is often time consuming. In order to speed-up ZNCC computation, a high-speed technique based on a parallel projection correlation procedure is proposed. The proposed technique involves the use of interrogation window projections instead of its two-dimensional field of luminous intensity. This simplification allows acceleration of ZNCC computation up to 28.8 times compared to ZNCC calculated directly, depending on the size of interrogation window and region of interest. The results of three synthetic test cases, such as a one-dimensional uniform flow, a linear shear flow and a turbulent boundary-layer flow, are discussed in terms of accuracy. In the latter case, the proposed technique is implemented together with an iterative window-deformation technique. On the basis of the results of the present work, the proposed technique is recommended to be used for initial velocity field calculation, with further correction using more accurate techniques.

A computerized procedure for teaching the relationship between graphic symbols and their referents.

PubMed

Isaacson, Mick; Lloyd, Lyle L

2013-01-01

Many individuals with little or no functional speech communicate through graphic symbols. Communication is enhanced when the relationship between symbols and their referents are learned to such a degree that retrieval is effortless, resulting in fluent communication. Developing fluency is a time consuming endeavor for special educators and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). It would be beneficial for these professionals to have an automated procedure based on the most efficacious method for teaching the relationship between symbols and referent. Hence, this study investigated whether a procedure based on the generation effect would promote learning the association between symbols and their referents. Results show that referent generation produces the best long-term retention of this relationship. These findings provide evidence that software based on referent generation would provide special educators and SLPs with an efficacious automated procedure, requiring minimal direct supervision, to facilitate symbol/referent learning and the development of communicative fluency.

Improving the review of standard operating procedures: a novel electronic system for compounding pharmacies.

PubMed

Brensel, Robert; Brensel, Scott; Ng, Amy

2013-01-01

Since the New England Compounding Center disaster in 2012, the importance of following correct procedures during every phase of customized pharmacy has been a focus of governmental interest and action as well as public scrutiny. Many pharmacies rely on the rote review of standard operating procedures to ensure that staff members understand and follow protocols that ensure the safety and potency of all compounds prepared, but that approach to continuing education can be cumbersome and needlessly time-consuming. In addition, documenting and retrieving evidence of employee competence can be difficult. In this article, we describe our use of online technology to improve our methods of educating staff about the full range of standard operating procedures that must be followed in our pharmacy. The system we devised and implemented has proven to be effective, easy to update and maintain, very inexpensive, and user friendly. Its use has reduced the time previously required for a read-over review of standard operating procedures from 30 or 40 minutes to 5 or 10 minutes in weekly staff meetings, and we can now easily document and access proof of employees' comprehension of that content. It is our hope that other small compounding pharmacies will also find this system of online standard operating procedure review helpful.

Defending the New Domain: Cyberspace

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-21

and time consuming, the FBI has proven technology, techniques, and procedures to hunt down and capture cyber criminals , despite the anonymity of the...help stop cyber crime and make it harder for cyber criminals to commit crime on the internet. MILITARY The U.S. military relies on DoD...one country and attacking another. Cyber criminals are using servers and proxies in one country to execute their criminal activities in another

Use of Severity of Illness Indexes for Assessing Health Care Provider Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-07-01

Exclusive reliance on manual selection of the inpatient records would have proven difficult and time consuming. Appendix B contains correspondence...presence of mortalities or complications following surgery. Results obtained from the two-fold PASBA screen and manual selection process represent a...information provided include the last four numbers of each patient’s social security number, register number, procedure and occurrence found. A manual

Study of consumer fireworks post-blast residues by ATR-FTIR.

PubMed

Martín-Alberca, Carlos; Zapata, Félix; Carrascosa, Héctor; Ortega-Ojeda, Fernando E; García-Ruiz, Carmen

2016-03-01

Specific analytical procedures are requested for the forensic analysis of pre- and post-blast consumer firework samples, which present significant challenges. Up to date, vibrational spectroscopic techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) have not been tested for the analysis of post-blast residues in spite of their interesting strengths for the forensic field. Therefore, this work proposes a simple and fast procedure for the sampling and analysis of consumer firework post-blast residues by a portable FTIR instrument with an Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) accessory. In addition, the post-blast residues spectra of several consumer fireworks were studied in order to achieve the identification of their original chemical compositions. Hence, this work analysed 22 standard reagents usually employed to make consumer fireworks, or because they are related to their combustion products. Then, 5 different consumer fireworks were exploded, and their residues were sampled with dry cotton swabs and directly analysed by ATR-FTIR. In addition, their pre-blast fuses and charges were also analysed in order to stablish a proper comparison. As a result, the identification of the original chemical compositions of the post-blast samples was obtained. Some of the compounds found were potassium chlorate, barium nitrate, potassium nitrate, potassium perchlorate or charcoal. An additional study involving chemometric tools found that the results might greatly depend on the swab head type used for the sampling, and its sampling efficiency. The proposed procedure could be used as a complementary technique for the analysis of consumer fireworks post-blast residues. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Optimum load distribution between heat sources based on the Cournot model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penkovskii, A. V.; Stennikov, V. A.; Khamisov, O. V.

2015-08-01

One of the widespread models of the heat supply of consumers, which is represented in the "Single buyer" format, is considered. The methodological base proposed for its description and investigation presents the use of principles of the theory of games, basic propositions of microeconomics, and models and methods of the theory of hydraulic circuits. The original mathematical model of the heat supply system operating under conditions of the "Single buyer" organizational structure provides the derivation of a solution satisfying the market Nash equilibrium. The distinctive feature of the developed mathematical model is that, along with problems solved traditionally within the bounds of bilateral relations of heat energy sources-heat consumer, it considers a network component with its inherent physicotechnical properties of the heat network and business factors connected with costs of the production and transportation of heat energy. This approach gives the possibility to determine optimum levels of load of heat energy sources. These levels provide the given heat energy demand of consumers subject to the maximum profit earning of heat energy sources and the fulfillment of conditions for formation of minimum heat network costs for a specified time. The practical realization of the search of market equilibrium is considered by the example of a heat supply system with two heat energy sources operating on integrated heat networks. The mathematical approach to the solution search is represented in the graphical form and illustrates computations based on the stepwise iteration procedure for optimization of levels of loading of heat energy sources (groping procedure by Cournot) with the corresponding computation of the heat energy price for consumers.

Everything you always wanted to hear about rate making but were afraid to ask

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

Cady, W.A.

1983-08-04

Rate making is a complicated and time-consuming procedure. That it could benefit from judiciously chosen reforms is beyond question. This article covers several major areas of contention within the regulatory arena, all of which have been the subject of considerable debate in recent years. In an effort to find a compromise position between extremes, the author makes three specific suggestions that, if adopted, could enable parties involved to devote their time and resources to more fundamental questions regarding the regulated utility industries. 3 references.

Model-Based Verification and Validation of Spacecraft Avionics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khan, Mohammed Omair

2012-01-01

Our simulation was able to mimic the results of 30 tests on the actual hardware. This shows that simulations have the potential to enable early design validation - well before actual hardware exists. Although simulations focused around data processing procedures at subsystem and device level, they can also be applied to system level analysis to simulate mission scenarios and consumable tracking (e.g. power, propellant, etc.). Simulation engine plug-in developments are continually improving the product, but handling time for time-sensitive operations (like those of the remote engineering unit and bus controller) can be cumbersome.

Enteral nutrition tube placement assisted by ultrasonography in patients with severe acute pancreatitis

PubMed Central

Li, Gang; Pan, Yiyuan; Zhou, Jing; Tong, Zhihui; Ke, Lu; Li, Weiqin

2017-01-01

Abstract To evaluate the effect of a novel procedure using real-time ultrasonography to assist nasojejunal tube placement at bedside in patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Single center, prospective descriptive study in a 15-bed surgery intensive care unit of a university hospital. Thirty SAP patients were enrolled. The whole procedure of placing nasojejunal tube was performed by a single physician, who places nasojejunal tube at the bedside and performs ultrasonography to guide the tube positioning. The final nasojejunal tube position was confirmed by abdominal radiograph. The successful rate of the procedure as well as the time it took, the time from the decision of enteral feeding to commencement of feeding, and complications were recorded. Thirty-six intubations were performed in 30 patients by using ultrasonography-assisted method at bedside. Nasojejunal tubes were successful placed in 28 of 30 patients (93.3%). The average time of successful placement was 22.07 ± 5.78 minutes. The median time between physician's decision for tube placement and feeding initiation was 5.5 (2, 24) hours. No adverse events occurred in all of patients. This novel method of nasojejunal tube placement under ultrasound guidance is practical, less time consuming and reliable. PMID:29137035

29 CFR 1983.108 - Role of Federal agencies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT... Solicitor is otherwise required by these rules. (b) The Consumer Product Safety Commission, if interested in...

29 CFR 1983.108 - Role of Federal agencies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT... Solicitor is otherwise required by these rules. (b) The Consumer Product Safety Commission, if interested in...

12 CFR 227.2 - Consumer complaint procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... SYSTEM UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE ACTS OR PRACTICES (REGULATION AA) General Provisions § 227.2 Consumer... forwarded to the Federal agency having jurisdiction over that institution. [Reg. AA, 41 FR 44362, Oct. 8...

76 FR 78977 - Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (Regulation X)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-20

...Title X of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) transferred rulemaking authority for a number of consumer financial protection laws from seven Federal agencies to the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (Bureau) as of July 21, 2011. The Bureau is in the process of republishing the regulations implementing those laws with technical and conforming changes to reflect the transfer of authority and certain other changes made by the Dodd-Frank Act. In light of the transfer of the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD's) rulemaking authority for the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) to the Bureau, the Bureau is publishing for public comment an interim final rule establishing a new Regulation X (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act). This interim final rule does not impose any new substantive obligations on persons subject to the existing Regulation X, previously published by HUD.

77 FR 76353 - Procedure Relating to Rulemaking

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-28

... BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION 12 CFR Part 1074 [Docket No. CFPB-2012-0051] Procedure... procedures for rulemaking. Part 1074.1 establishes that the Bureau's rules are deemed issued upon the earlier... in 12 CFR Part 1074 Administrative practice and procedure. Authority and Issuance For the reasons set...

16 CFR 641.1 - Duties of users of consumer reports regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Duties of users of consumer reports... address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures designed to enable...

16 CFR 641.1 - Duties of users of consumer reports regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Duties of users of consumer reports... address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures designed to enable...

16 CFR 641.1 - Duties of users of consumer reports regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Duties of users of consumer reports... address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures designed to enable...

16 CFR 641.1 - Duties of users of consumer reports regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Duties of users of consumer reports... address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures designed to enable...

16 CFR 641.1 - Duties of users of consumer reports regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Duties of users of consumer reports... address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures designed to enable...

16 CFR 1500.89 - Procedures and requirements for determinations regarding lead content of materials or products...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Safety Improvement Act. 1500.89 Section 1500.89 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION... materials or products under section 101(a) of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. (a) The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act provides for specific lead limits in children's products. Section 101(a) of...

Consumer knowledge, preference, and perceived quality of dried tomato products in Ghana.

PubMed

Owureku-Asare, Mavis; Ambrose, R P Kingsly; Oduro, Ibok; Tortoe, Charles; Saalia, Firibu K

2017-05-01

Postharvest losses (PHL) are incurred in the tomato value chain in Ghana and solar drying of tomato is a promising technology for reducing the loss. However, there are concerns on the usage, functionality and sensory appeal of the dried products to consumers, compounded with the lack of information and research on dried tomato processing in Ghana. A survey was carried out by administering semistructured questionnaires to 395 randomly selected and willing respondents in the Accra Metropolis. Information was obtained on the socioeconomic profile, consumption pattern, knowledge, and acceptance of tomato processing technologies and assessment of quality attributes important to consumers. Most consumers (74%) preferred tomato powder that is conveniently packaged to retain the characteristic intense taste and the flavor using Friedman's rank mean procedure. The study indicated that consumers were more concerned about good manufacturing practices during the production of solar-dried tomato (48.8%) rather than the quality attributes (8.6%). These findings indicate the need for safe solar drying procedures in order to increase consumer acceptability of solar-dried tomato products in Ghana.

29 CFR 1983.108 - Role of Federal agencies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT..., U.S. Department of Labor, as well as other parties. (b) The Consumer Product Safety Commission, if...

29 CFR 1983.108 - Role of Federal agencies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT..., U.S. Department of Labor, as well as other parties. (b) The Consumer Product Safety Commission, if...

Using Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing as a Key Component of the Value Platform: A Pilot Analysis of Colonoscopy, Aortic Valve Replacement and Carpal Tunnel Release Procedures.

PubMed

Martin, Jacob A; Mayhew, Christopher R; Morris, Amanda J; Bader, Angela M; Tsai, Mitchell H; Urman, Richard D

2018-04-01

Time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) is a methodology that calculates the costs of healthcare resources consumed as a patient moves along a care process. Limited data exist on the application of TDABC from the perspective of an anesthesia provider. We describe the use of TDABC, a bottom-up costing strategy and financial outcomes for three different medical-surgical procedures. In each case, a multi-disciplinary team created process maps describing the care delivery cycle for a patient encounter using the TDABC methodology. Each step in a process map delineated an activity required for delivery of patient care. The resources (personnel, equipment and supplies) associated with each step were identified. A per minute cost for each resource expended was generated, known as the capacity cost rate, and multiplied by its time requirement. The total cost for an episode of care was obtained by adding the cost of each individual resource consumed as the patient moved along a clinical pathway. We built process maps for colonoscopy in the gastroenterology suite, calculated costs of an aortic valve replacement by comparing surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) versus transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) techniques, and determined the cost of carpal tunnel release in an operating room versus an ambulatory procedure room. TDABC is central to the value-based healthcare platform. Application of TDABC provides a framework to identify process improvements for health care delivery. The first case demonstrates cost-savings and improved wait times by shifting some of the colonoscopies scheduled with an anesthesiologist from the main hospital to the ambulatory facility. In the second case, we show that the deployment of an aortic valve via the transcatheter route front loads the costs compared to traditional, surgical replacement. The last case demonstrates significant cost savings to the healthcare system associated with re-organization of staff required to execute a carpal tunnel release.

Using Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing as a Key Component of the Value Platform: A Pilot Analysis of Colonoscopy, Aortic Valve Replacement and Carpal Tunnel Release Procedures

PubMed Central

Martin, Jacob A.; Mayhew, Christopher R.; Morris, Amanda J.; Bader, Angela M.; Tsai, Mitchell H.; Urman, Richard D.

2018-01-01

Background Time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) is a methodology that calculates the costs of healthcare resources consumed as a patient moves along a care process. Limited data exist on the application of TDABC from the perspective of an anesthesia provider. We describe the use of TDABC, a bottom-up costing strategy and financial outcomes for three different medical-surgical procedures. Methods In each case, a multi-disciplinary team created process maps describing the care delivery cycle for a patient encounter using the TDABC methodology. Each step in a process map delineated an activity required for delivery of patient care. The resources (personnel, equipment and supplies) associated with each step were identified. A per minute cost for each resource expended was generated, known as the capacity cost rate, and multiplied by its time requirement. The total cost for an episode of care was obtained by adding the cost of each individual resource consumed as the patient moved along a clinical pathway. Results We built process maps for colonoscopy in the gastroenterology suite, calculated costs of an aortic valve replacement by comparing surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) versus transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) techniques, and determined the cost of carpal tunnel release in an operating room versus an ambulatory procedure room. Conclusions TDABC is central to the value-based healthcare platform. Application of TDABC provides a framework to identify process improvements for health care delivery. The first case demonstrates cost-savings and improved wait times by shifting some of the colonoscopies scheduled with an anesthesiologist from the main hospital to the ambulatory facility. In the second case, we show that the deployment of an aortic valve via the transcatheter route front loads the costs compared to traditional, surgical replacement. The last case demonstrates significant cost savings to the healthcare system associated with re-organization of staff required to execute a carpal tunnel release. PMID:29511420

The Short-Lived Epidemic of Botulism From Commercially Canned Foods in the United States, 1919 to 1925.

PubMed

Kazanjian, Powel

2018-04-17

In 1919, three deadly outbreaks of botulism caused by consumption of canned olives packed in California captured national headlines. In all of the outbreaks, which occurred in separate locales, unsuspecting people died after consuming tainted food during a banquet or family meal. The press's sensational portrayal of canned food as hazardous aroused alarm among consumers at a time when commercial canning was becoming more common. Intent on restoring the image of their product as safe and wholesome, canning industry leaders funded a "botulism commission" of scientific experts in 1919 to investigate how to systematically eliminate the threat of botulism that had imperiled their business. The commissioners identified the scientific reasons for the outbreaks, and on the basis of their findings, the California Department of Public Health issued explicit recommendations for sterilization procedures intended to ensure safety. However, the department did not mandate inspections for all canneries. When commercially packed fruits and vegetables continued to cause botulism, industry leaders voluntarily backed a cannery inspection act to legally require all California canners to possess appropriate equipment and follow scientifically validated sterilization procedures. After the California legislature approved the act in 1925, canneries were inspected, regulations were enforced, and no further outbreaks occurred. This botulism epidemic is an example of a disease outbreak that was controlled when business interests became aligned with public health goals. The press's portrayal of afflicted persons as innocent victims and worthy citizens galvanized businessmen to implement safeguards to protect consumers from botulism intoxication. To preserve their customer base and salvage their corporations, leaders of the canning industry acknowledged the public health threat of their unregulated procedures and acted on the recommendations of scientists.

Evaluation of atomic pressure in the multiple time-step integration algorithm.

PubMed

Andoh, Yoshimichi; Yoshii, Noriyuki; Yamada, Atsushi; Okazaki, Susumu

2017-04-15

In molecular dynamics (MD) calculations, reduction in calculation time per MD loop is essential. A multiple time-step (MTS) integration algorithm, the RESPA (Tuckerman and Berne, J. Chem. Phys. 1992, 97, 1990-2001), enables reductions in calculation time by decreasing the frequency of time-consuming long-range interaction calculations. However, the RESPA MTS algorithm involves uncertainties in evaluating the atomic interaction-based pressure (i.e., atomic pressure) of systems with and without holonomic constraints. It is not clear which intermediate forces and constraint forces in the MTS integration procedure should be used to calculate the atomic pressure. In this article, we propose a series of equations to evaluate the atomic pressure in the RESPA MTS integration procedure on the basis of its equivalence to the Velocity-Verlet integration procedure with a single time step (STS). The equations guarantee time-reversibility even for the system with holonomic constrants. Furthermore, we generalize the equations to both (i) arbitrary number of inner time steps and (ii) arbitrary number of force components (RESPA levels). The atomic pressure calculated by our equations with the MTS integration shows excellent agreement with the reference value with the STS, whereas pressures calculated using the conventional ad hoc equations deviated from it. Our equations can be extended straightforwardly to the MTS integration algorithm for the isothermal NVT and isothermal-isobaric NPT ensembles. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Endoscopically assisted tunnel approach for minimally invasive corticotomies: a preliminary report.

PubMed

Hernández-Alfaro, Federico; Guijarro-Martínez, Raquel

2012-05-01

The dental community has expressed low acceptance of traditional corticotomy techniques for corticotomy-facilitated orthodontics. These procedures are time consuming, entail substantial postoperative morbidity and periodontal risks, and are often perceived as highly invasive. A total of 114 interdental sites were treated in nine consecutive patients. Under local anesthesia, a tunnel approach requiring one to three vertical incisions per arch (depending on the targeted teeth) was used. Piezosurgical corticotomies and elective bone augmentation procedures were performed under endoscopic assistance. Postoperative cone-beam computerized tomography evaluation was used to confirm adequate corticotomy depth. Procedures were completed in a mean time of 26 minutes. Follow-up evaluations revealed no loss of tooth vitality, no changes in periodontal probing depth, good preservation of the papillae, and no gingival recession. No evidence of crestal bone height reduction or apical root resorption was detected. The tunnel approach minimizes soft-tissue debridement and permits effective cortical cuts. The combination of piezosurgery technique with endoscopic assistance provides a quick, reliable means to design and perform these corticotomies while maximizing root integrity preservation. Moreover, the sites needing bone augmentation are selected under direct vision. Compared to traditional corticotomies, this procedure has manifest advantages in surgical time, technical complexity, patient morbidity, and periodontium preservation.

Cost accounting in a surgical unit in a teaching hospital--a pilot study.

PubMed

Malalasekera, A P; Ariyaratne, M H; Fernando, R; Perera, D; Deen, K I

2003-09-01

Economic constraints remain one of the major limitations on the quality of health care even in industrialised countries. Improvement of quality will require optimising facilities within available resources. Our objective was to determine costs of surgery and to identify areas where cost reduction is possible. 80 patients undergoing routine major and intermediate surgery during a period of 6 months were selected at random. All consumables used and procedures carried out were documented. A unit cost was assigned to each of these. Costing was based on 3 main categories: preoperative (investigations, blood product related costs), operative (anaesthetic charges, consumables and theatre charges) and post-operative (investigations, consumables, hospital stay). Theatre charges included two components: fixed (consumables) and variable (dependent on time per operation). The indirect costs (e.g. administration costs, 'hotel' costs), accounted for 30%, of the total and were lower than similar costs in industrialised nations. The largest contributory factors (median, range) towards total cost were, basic hospital charges (30%; 15 to 63%); theatre charges fixed (23%; 6 to 35%) and variable (14%; 8 to 27%); and anaesthetic charges (15%; 1 to 36%). Cost reduction in patients undergoing surgery should focus on decreasing hospital stay, operating theatre time and anaesthetic expenditure. Although definite measures can be suggested from the study, further studies on these variables are necessary to optimise cost effectiveness of surgical units.

A Battalion/Division Fiscal Control System for Training Resource Management.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-12-01

of each command using it. With many Army fiscal procedures consuming large volumes of time and resources to support operations with questionable...Document (FAD)) spe- cifying the appropriation and budget programs for which the funds may be used . The FAD is the installation’s approved financial...operating budgets. Although a proper term would be operating targets, budget is used for ease of understanding. These funds are principally for general

European Scientific Notes. Volume 34, Number 4,

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-04-30

chemistry will undergo this reaction, but the and even one on professional rights, product , R,PCH,, cannot be be further For those who visualize from this...Dr. H. acetate as catalyst. (The transition Guesten (Nuclear Research Center, Karls- metal is incorporated into the product : ruhe) dusted off some...people on indigo dyes range from synthe- from government authorities, a procedure sis all the way to theoretical calcu- that is time consuming at best

16 CFR 1101.23 - Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information. 1101.23 Section 1101.23 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Procedure for Providing Notice...

16 CFR 1101.23 - Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information. 1101.23 Section 1101.23 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Procedure for Providing Notice...

16 CFR 1101.23 - Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information. 1101.23 Section 1101.23 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Procedure for Providing Notice...

76 FR 14278 - U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order; Termination of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-16

...-07-0091; FV-07-706-FR] RIN 0581-AC78 U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer... Regulations (CFR) referendum procedures for the proposed U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer... the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or to the Research and Promotion Branch, Fruit and...

75 FR 18396 - U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order; Referendum Procedures

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-12

...; FV-07-706-FR] RIN 0581-AC78 U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order... Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order (Proposed U.S. Producer Order) is favored by persons to... under the Commodity Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1996 (1996 Act). DATES: Effective Date...

Simplified Non-cultured Non-trypsinised Epidermal Cell Graft Technique Followed by Psoralen and Ultraviolet A Light Therapy for Stable Vitiligo

PubMed Central

Kachhawa, Dilip; Rao, Pankaj; Kalla, Gyaneshwar

2017-01-01

Background and Aims: Stable vitiligo can be treated by various surgical procedures. Non-cultured melanocyte grafting techniques were developed to overcome the time-consuming process of culture while at the same time providing acceptable results. All the techniques using non-cultured melanocyte transfer involve trypsinisation as an integral step. Jodhpur technique used by the author is autologous, non-cultured, non-trypsinised, epidermal cell grafting. Settings and Design: The study was conducted on patients visiting the dermatology outpatient department of a tertiary health centre in Western Rajasthan. Materials and Methods: At the donor site, mupirocin ointment was applied and dermabrasion was done with the help of micromotor dermabrader till pinpoint bleeding was seen. The paste-like material obtained by this procedure containing melanocytes and keratinocytes admixed with the ointment base was harvested with spatula and was subsequently spread over the recipient area. Recipient site was prepared in the same manner by dermabrasion. After 10 days, dressing at both sites was removed taking utmost care at the recipient site as there was a theoretical risk of dislodging epidermal cells. Results: In a study of 437 vitiligo patches, more than 75% re-pigmentation (excellent improvement) was seen in 41% of the patches. Lesions on thigh (100%), face (75%) and trunk (50%) showed maximal excellent improvement, whereas patches on joints and acral areas did not show much improvement. Conclusions: This technique is a simplified, cost effective, less time-consuming alternative to other techniques which involve tryspsinisation of melanocytes and at the same time provides satisfactory uniform pigmentation. PMID:28852293

Novel strategy of endoscopic submucosal dissection using an insulation-tipped knife for early gastric cancer: near-side approach method

PubMed Central

Mori, Genki; Nonaka, Satoru; Oda, Ichiro; Abe, Seiichiro; Suzuki, Haruhisa; Yoshinaga, Shigetaka; Nakajima, Takeshi; Saito, Yutaka

2015-01-01

Background and study aims: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using insulation-tipped knives (IT knives) to treat gastric lesions located on the greater curvature of the gastric body remains technically challenging because of the associated bleeding, control of which can be difficult and time consuming. To eliminate these difficulties, we developed a novel strategy which we have called the “near-side approach method” and assessed its utility. Patients and methods: We reviewed patients who underwent ESD for solitary early gastric cancer located on the greater curvature of the gastric body from January 2003 to September 2014. The technical results of ESD were compared between the group treated with the novel near-side approach method and the group treated with the conventional method. Results: This study included 238 patients with 238 lesions, 118 of which were removed using the near-side approach method and 120 of which were removed using the conventional method. The median procedure time was 92 minutes for the near-side approach method and 120 minutes for the conventional method. The procedure time was significantly shorter in the near-side approach method arm. Although, the procedure time required by an experienced endoscopist was not significantly different between the two groups (100 vs. 110 minutes), the near-side approach group showed significantly shorter procedure time for a less-experienced endoscopist (90 vs. 120 minutes). Conclusions: The near-side approach method appears to require less time to complete gastric ESD than the conventional method using IT knives for technically challenging lesions located on the greater curvature of the gastric body, especially if the procedure is performed by less-experienced endoscopists. PMID:26528496

[From idea to standard care-a field report].

PubMed

Herberz, Chantal; Steidl, Ralph; Werner, Pascal; Hagen, Julia

2018-03-01

Digital health products and services have started to fundamentally change healthcare and prevention. Products intended for a medical use require CE-marking and potentially certification (ISO 13485) of the company. Startups play an important role in the development of new digital products and services. Two startups share their experience with these processes. Becoming a part of standard care and hence being reimbursed is a challenge for startups. For this reason, startups pursue alternative sources of income, too. The statutory health insurance's procedures for assessing new products and services are perceived as long. Startups are required to provide evidence of the benefit of their product at an early stage in the procedure. This requires time-consuming and costly studies. Startups would therefore appreciate support in generating this evidence, e. g. through adequate procedures for testing.

Development of an in situ calibration technique for combustible gas detectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shumar, J. W.; Wynveen, R. A.; Lance, N., Jr.; Lantz, J. B.

1977-01-01

This paper describes the development of an in situ calibration procedure for combustible gas detectors (CGD). The CGD will be a necessary device for future space vehicles as many subsystems in the Environmental Control/Life Support System utilize or produce hydrogen (H2) gas. Existing calibration techniques are time-consuming and require support equipment such as an environmental chamber and calibration gas supply. The in situ calibration procedure involves utilization of a water vapor electrolysis cell for the automatic in situ generation of a H2/air calibration mixture within the flame arrestor of the CGD. The development effort concluded with the successful demonstration of in situ span calibrations of a CGD.

Evaluating the Utility of Web-Based Consumer Support Tools Using Rough Sets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maciag, Timothy; Hepting, Daryl H.; Slezak, Dominik; Hilderman, Robert J.

On the Web, many popular e-commerce sites provide consumers with decision support tools to assist them in their commerce-related decision-making. Many consumers will rank the utility of these tools quite highly. Data obtained from web usage mining analyses, which may provide knowledge about a user's online experiences, could help indicate the utility of these tools. This type of analysis could provide insight into whether provided tools are adequately assisting consumers in conducting their online shopping activities or if new or additional enhancements need consideration. Although some research in this regard has been described in previous literature, there is still much that can be done. The authors of this paper hypothesize that a measurement of consumer decision accuracy, i.e. a measurement preferences, could help indicate the utility of these tools. This paper describes a procedure developed towards this goal using elements of rough set theory. The authors evaluated the procedure using two support tools, one based on a tool developed by the US-EPA and the other developed by one of the authors called cogito. Results from the evaluation did provide interesting insights on the utility of both support tools. Although it was shown that the cogito tool obtained slightly higher decision accuracy, both tools could be improved from additional enhancements. Details of the procedure developed and results obtained from the evaluation will be provided. Opportunities for future work are also discussed.

7 CFR 1212.100 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (MARKETING AGREEMENTS..., PROMOTION, CONSUMER EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY INFORMATION ORDER Referendum Procedures § 1212.100 General..., Promotion, Consumer Education, and Industry Information Order shall be conducted in accordance with this...

15 CFR 16.14 - Annual report.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Commerce and Foreign Trade Office of the Secretary of Commerce PROCEDURES FOR A VOLUNTARY CONSUMER PRODUCT... under the program, including an evaluation of the program and a list of participants, designated agents, and types of consumer products covered. ...

7 CFR 1209.306 - Referendum report.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... information pertinent to analysis of the referendum and its results. ..., AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order § 1209.306 Referendum report. Except as otherwise...

Rapid non-enzymatic extraction method for isolating PCR-quality camelpox virus DNA from skin.

PubMed

Yousif, A Ausama; Al-Naeem, A Abdelmohsen; Al-Ali, M Ahmad

2010-10-01

Molecular diagnostic investigations of orthopoxvirus (OPV) infections are performed using a variety of clinical samples including skin lesions, tissues from internal organs, blood and secretions. Skin samples are particularly convenient for rapid diagnosis and molecular epidemiological investigations of camelpox virus (CMLV). Classical extraction procedures and commercial spin-column-based kits are time consuming, relatively expensive, and require multiple extraction and purification steps in addition to proteinase K digestion. A rapid non-enzymatic procedure for extracting CMLV DNA from dried scabs or pox lesions was developed to overcome some of the limitations of the available DNA extraction techniques. The procedure requires as little as 10mg of tissue and produces highly purified DNA [OD(260)/OD(280) ratios between 1.47 and 1.79] with concentrations ranging from 6.5 to 16 microg/ml. The extracted CMLV DNA was proven suitable for virus-specific qualitative and, semi-quantitative PCR applications. Compared to spin-column and conventional viral DNA extraction techniques, the two-step extraction procedure saves money and time, and retains the potential for automation without compromising CMLV PCR sensitivity. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design and Mechanical Evaluation of a Capacitive Sensor-Based Indexed Platform for Verification of Portable Coordinate Measuring Instruments

PubMed Central

Avila, Agustín Brau; Mazo, Jorge Santolaria; Martín, Juan José Aguilar

2014-01-01

During the last years, the use of Portable Coordinate Measuring Machines (PCMMs) in industry has increased considerably, mostly due to their flexibility for accomplishing in-line measuring tasks as well as their reduced costs and operational advantages as compared to traditional coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). However, their operation has a significant drawback derived from the techniques applied in the verification and optimization procedures of their kinematic parameters. These techniques are based on the capture of data with the measuring instrument from a calibrated gauge object, fixed successively in various positions so that most of the instrument measuring volume is covered, which results in time-consuming, tedious and expensive verification procedures. In this work the mechanical design of an indexed metrology platform (IMP) is presented. The aim of the IMP is to increase the final accuracy and to radically simplify the calibration, identification and verification of geometrical parameter procedures of PCMMs. The IMP allows us to fix the calibrated gauge object and move the measuring instrument in such a way that it is possible to cover most of the instrument working volume, reducing the time and operator fatigue to carry out these types of procedures. PMID:24451458

Design and mechanical evaluation of a capacitive sensor-based indexed platform for verification of portable coordinate measuring instruments.

PubMed

Avila, Agustín Brau; Mazo, Jorge Santolaria; Martín, Juan José Aguilar

2014-01-02

During the last years, the use of Portable Coordinate Measuring Machines (PCMMs) in industry has increased considerably, mostly due to their flexibility for accomplishing in-line measuring tasks as well as their reduced costs and operational advantages as compared to traditional coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). However, their operation has a significant drawback derived from the techniques applied in the verification and optimization procedures of their kinematic parameters. These techniques are based on the capture of data with the measuring instrument from a calibrated gauge object, fixed successively in various positions so that most of the instrument measuring volume is covered, which results in time-consuming, tedious and expensive verification procedures. In this work the mechanical design of an indexed metrology platform (IMP) is presented. The aim of the IMP is to increase the final accuracy and to radically simplify the calibration, identification and verification of geometrical parameter procedures of PCMMs. The IMP allows us to fix the calibrated gauge object and move the measuring instrument in such a way that it is possible to cover most of the instrument working volume, reducing the time and operator fatigue to carry out these types of procedures.

Association of Reference Payment for Colonoscopy With Consumer Choices, Insurer Spending, and Procedural Complications.

PubMed

Robinson, James C; Brown, Timothy T; Whaley, Christopher; Finlayson, Emily

2015-11-01

Regulatory limits on consumer cost sharing permit wide variation in the prices charged for screening and diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy. Employers are experimenting with reference payment initiatives that offer full insurance coverage at low-priced facilities but require substantial cost sharing if patients select high-priced alternatives. To ascertain the effect of reference payment on facility choice, insurer spending, consumer cost sharing, and procedural complications for colonoscopy. The California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) implemented reference payment in January 2012. We obtained data on 21 644 CalPERS enrollees who underwent colonoscopy in the 3 years prior to implementation and on 13 551 patients in the 2 years after implementation. Control group data were obtained on 258 616 Anthem Blue Cross enrollees who underwent colonoscopy and who were not subject to reference payment initiatives during this 5-year period. Consumer choice of facility, price paid per procedure, total insurer spending, consumer cost sharing, and procedural complications. Choices, prices, and complications were compared for CalPERS and Anthem patients before and after implementation of reference payments, using difference-in-difference multivariable regressions to adjust for patient demographic characteristics and comorbidities, procedure indications, and geographic location. Utilization of low-priced facilities for CalPERS members increased from 68.6% in 2009 to 90.5% in 2013. After adjusting for patient demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and other factors, the implementation of reference payment increased use of low-priced facilities by 17.6 percentage points (95% CI, 11.8 to 23.4; P < .001). The mean price paid for colonoscopy for the CalPERS population increased from $1587 (95% CI, $1555-$1618) in 2009 to $1716 (95% CI, $1678-$1753) in 2011 and then decreased to $1508 (95% CI, $1469-$1548) in 2013 for patients subject to reference payment. After adjustment for other relevant factors, reference payment was responsible for a 21.0% (95% CI, -26.0% to -15.6%, P < .001) reduction in the price. Reference payment was associated with a small but statistically insignificant decline in procedural complications, from 2.1% in 2009 to 2.0% in 2013 (P = .47). In the first 2 years after implementation, CalPERS saved $7.0 million (28%) on spending for the procedure. Implementation of reference payment for colonoscopy was associated with reduced spending and no change in complications.

76 FR 40612 - Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA): Technical Corrections and Clarifying Amendments

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-11

...)(ii)(D) states that ``creditor'' is defined in the Consumer Credit Protection Act at 15 U.S.C. 1602(f... ``creditor'', as defined in section 103(g) of the Consumer Credit Protection Act (15 U.S.C. 1602(g)), that... enactment of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Financial Protection Act (Pub. L. 110-203...

16 CFR § 1101.23 - Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Providing less than 15 days notice before disclosing information. § 1101.23 Section § 1101.23 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Procedure for Providing...

Stochastic modeling of consumer preferences for health care institutions.

PubMed

Malhotra, N K

1983-01-01

This paper proposes a stochastic procedure for modeling consumer preferences via LOGIT analysis. First, a simple, non-technical exposition of the use of a stochastic approach in health care marketing is presented. Second, a study illustrating the application of the LOGIT model in assessing consumer preferences for hospitals is given. The paper concludes with several implications of the proposed approach.

7 CFR 1209.301 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion... to act in the Administrator's stead. (b) Order means the Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer...

7 CFR 1209.301 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion... to act in the Administrator's stead. (b) Order means the Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer...

7 CFR 1209.301 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion... to act in the Administrator's stead. (b) Order means the Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer...

7 CFR 1209.301 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion... to act in the Administrator's stead. (b) Order means the Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer...

Advanced Airframe Structural Materials: A Primer and Cost Estimating Methodology

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

laying machines for larger, mildly con- toured parts such as wing and stabilizer skins. For such parts, automated tape laying machines can operate many...heat guns (90-130°F). However, thermoplastics require as much as 650°F for forming. Automated tape laying machines for these materials use warm...cycles to properly seat the plies onto the tool. This time-consuming process can sometimes be eliminated or reduced by the use of automated tape laying procedures

MCNP modelling of scintillation-detector gamma-ray spectra from natural radionuclides.

PubMed

Hendriks, P H G M; Maucec, M; de Meijer, R J

2002-09-01

gamma-ray spectra of natural radionuclides are simulated for a BGO detector in a borehole geometry using the Monte Carlo code MCNP. All gamma-ray emissions of the decay of 40K and the series of 232Th and 238U are used to describe the source. A procedure is proposed which excludes the time-consuming electron tracking in less relevant areas of the geometry. The simulated gamma-ray spectra are benchmarked against laboratory data.

Aligning HST Images to Gaia: A Faster Mosaicking Workflow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajaj, V.

2017-11-01

We present a fully programmatic workflow for aligning HST images using the high-quality astrometry provided by Gaia Data Release 1. Code provided in a Jupyter Notebook works through this procedure, including parsing the data to determine the query area parameters, querying Gaia for the coordinate catalog, and using the catalog with TweakReg as reference catalog. This workflow greatly simplifies the normally time-consuming process of aligning HST images, especially those taken as part of mosaics.

Maintenance of the Maxillomandibular Position with Digital Workflow in Oral Rehabilitation: A Technical Note.

PubMed

Li, Zhongjie; Xia, Yingfeng; Chen, Kai; Zhao, Hanchi; Liu, Yang

Prosthodontic oral rehabilitation procedures are time consuming and require efforts to maintain the confirmed maxillomandibular relationship. Several occlusal registrations and impressions are needed, and cross-mounting is performed to transfer the diagnostic wax-up to master working casts. The introduction of a digital workflow protocol reduces steps in the required process, and occlusal registrations with less deformation are used. The outcome is a maintained maxillomandibular position that is accurately and conveniently transferred.

Tetraethylene glycol promoted two-step, one-pot rapid synthesis of indole-3-[1- 11C]acetic acid

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

Lee, Sojeong; Qu, Wenchao; Alexoff, David L.

2014-12-12

An operationally friendly, two-step, one-pot process has been developed for the rapid synthesis of carbon-11 labeled indole-3-acetic acid ([ 11]IAA or [ 11]auxin). By replacing an aprotic polar solvent with tetraethylene glycol, nucleophilic [ 11]cyanation and alkaline hydrolysis reactions were performed consecutively in a single pot without a time-consuming intermediate purification step. The entire production time for this updated procedure is 55 min, which dramatically simplifies the entire synthesis and reduces the starting radioactivity required for a whole plant imaging study.

Recognising safety critical events: can automatic video processing improve naturalistic data analyses?

PubMed

Dozza, Marco; González, Nieves Pañeda

2013-11-01

New trends in research on traffic accidents include Naturalistic Driving Studies (NDS). NDS are based on large scale data collection of driver, vehicle, and environment information in real world. NDS data sets have proven to be extremely valuable for the analysis of safety critical events such as crashes and near crashes. However, finding safety critical events in NDS data is often difficult and time consuming. Safety critical events are currently identified using kinematic triggers, for instance searching for deceleration below a certain threshold signifying harsh braking. Due to the low sensitivity and specificity of this filtering procedure, manual review of video data is currently necessary to decide whether the events identified by the triggers are actually safety critical. Such reviewing procedure is based on subjective decisions, is expensive and time consuming, and often tedious for the analysts. Furthermore, since NDS data is exponentially growing over time, this reviewing procedure may not be viable anymore in the very near future. This study tested the hypothesis that automatic processing of driver video information could increase the correct classification of safety critical events from kinematic triggers in naturalistic driving data. Review of about 400 video sequences recorded from the events, collected by 100 Volvo cars in the euroFOT project, suggested that drivers' individual reaction may be the key to recognize safety critical events. In fact, whether an event is safety critical or not often depends on the individual driver. A few algorithms, able to automatically classify driver reaction from video data, have been compared. The results presented in this paper show that the state of the art subjective review procedures to identify safety critical events from NDS can benefit from automated objective video processing. In addition, this paper discusses the major challenges in making such video analysis viable for future NDS and new potential applications for NDS video processing. As new NDS such as SHRP2 are now providing the equivalent of five years of one vehicle data each day, the development of new methods, such as the one proposed in this paper, seems necessary to guarantee that these data can actually be analysed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Operational and Medical Procedures for a Declared Contingency Shuttle (CSCS) Shuttle Mission Due to a Failure that Precludes a Safe Return

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Adrien; Patlach, Bob; Duchense, Ted; Chandler, Mike; Stepaniak, Philip C.

2011-01-01

This poster paper outlines the operational and medical procedures for a shuttle mission that has a failure that precludes a safe return to Earth. Information about the assumptions, procedures and limiting consumables is included.

Cyclic Hardness Test PHYBALCHT: A New Short-Time Procedure to Estimate Fatigue Properties of Metallic Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kramer, Hendrik; Klein, Marcus; Eifler, Dietmar

Conventional methods to characterize the fatigue behavior of metallic materials are very time and cost consuming. That is why the new short-time procedure PHYBALCHT was developed at the Institute of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Kaiserslautern. This innovative method requires only a planar material surface to perform cyclic force-controlled hardness indentation tests. To characterize the cyclic elastic-plastic behavior of the test material the change of the force-indentation-depth-hysteresis is plotted versus the number of indentation cycles. In accordance to the plastic strain amplitude the indentation-depth width of the hysteresis loop is measured at half minimum force and is called plastic indentation-depth amplitude. Its change as a function of the number of cycles of indentation can be described by power-laws. One of these power-laws contains the hardening-exponentCHT e II , which correlates very well with the amount of cyclic hardening in conventional constant amplitude fatigue tests.

29 CFR 1985.100 - Purpose and scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER THE EMPLOYEE PROTECTION PROVISION OF THE CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION ACT OF 2010 Complaints, Investigations, Findings, and Preliminary Orders... the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010, Section 1057 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and...

75 FR 10972 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Certification, Compliance, and Enforcement...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-09

... Request; Certification, Compliance, and Enforcement Requirements for Consumer Products and Certain... water conservation standards and test procedures for consumer products and certain commercial and... and certification reports for these ballasts. These regulations appear elsewhere in today's Federal...

16 CFR 1702.1 - Purpose and policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT REQUIREMENTS; PETITION PROCEDURES AND... Consumer Product Safety Commission requires, under section 3(a)(1) of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act...

16 CFR 1702.1 - Purpose and policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT REQUIREMENTS; PETITION PROCEDURES AND... Consumer Product Safety Commission requires, under section 3(a)(1) of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act...

16 CFR 1702.1 - Purpose and policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT REQUIREMENTS; PETITION PROCEDURES AND... Consumer Product Safety Commission requires, under section 3(a)(1) of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act...

16 CFR 1702.1 - Purpose and policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT REQUIREMENTS; PETITION PROCEDURES AND... Consumer Product Safety Commission requires, under section 3(a)(1) of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act...

Procedures for the handling of retaliation complaints under section 1558 of the Affordable Care Act. Interim final rule; request for comments.

PubMed

2013-02-27

This document provides the interim final regulations governing the employee protection (whistleblower) provision of section 1558 of the Affordable Care Act, which added section 18C of the Fair Labor Standards Act, to provide protections to employees of health insurance issuers or other employers who may have been subject to retaliation for reporting potential violations of the law's consumer protections (e.g., the prohibition on denials of insurance due to pre-existing conditions) or affordability assistance provisions (e.g., access to health insurance premium tax credits). This interim rule establishes procedures and time frames for the handling of retaliation complaints under section 18C, including procedures and time frames for employee complaints to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), investigations by OSHA, appeals of OSHA determinations to an administrative law judge (ALJ) for a hearing de novo, hearings by ALJs, review of ALJ decisions by the Administrative Review Board (ARB) (acting on behalf of the Secretary of Labor), and judicial review of the Secretary's final decision.

Rapid Measurement of Soil Carbon in Rice Paddy Field of Lombok Island Indonesia Using Near Infrared Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kusumo, B. H.; Sukartono, S.; Bustan, B.

2018-02-01

Measuring soil organic carbon (C) using conventional analysis is tedious procedure, time consuming and expensive. It is needed simple procedure which is cheap and saves time. Near infrared technology offers rapid procedure as it works based on the soil spectral reflectance and without any chemicals. The aim of this research is to test whether this technology able to rapidly measure soil organic C in rice paddy field. Soil samples were collected from rice paddy field of Lombok Island Indonesia, and the coordinates of the samples were recorded. Parts of the samples were analysed using conventional analysis (Walkley and Black) and some other parts were scanned using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for soil spectral collection. Partial Least Square Regression (PLSR) Models were developed using data of soil C analysed using conventional analysis and data from soil spectral reflectance. The models were moderately successful to measure soil C in rice paddy field of Lombok Island. This shows that the NIR technology can be further used to monitor the C change in rice paddy soil.

Responsive Approaches to Consumer Complaints and Remedies. Report of the Sub-Council on Complaints and Remedies of the National Business Council for Consumer Affairs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Business Council for Consumer Affairs, Washington, DC.

The report urges that every seller review, and where necessary modernize, his internal complaint-handling procedures and his methods for resolving disputes in the light of the following recommendations: (1) The handling of consumer complaints should be swift, personalized, courteous, and as effectively managed as any other function of prime…

12 CFR 1082.1 - Procedures for notifying the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection when a State Official takes...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Financial Protection when a State Official takes an action to enforce title X of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street... Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection when a State Official takes an action to enforce title X of the... office of the Bureau responsible for enforcement of Federal consumer financial law pursuant to title X of...

12 CFR 1082.1 - Procedures for notifying the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection when a State Official takes...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Financial Protection when a State Official takes an action to enforce Title X of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street... Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection when a State Official takes an action to enforce Title X of the... office of the Bureau responsible for enforcement of Federal consumer financial law pursuant to Title X of...

75 FR 4539 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Publication of the Petition for Waiver and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-28

... procedure for determining the energy consumption of electric refrigerators and refrigerator-freezers. The... condensation. The existing test procedure does not take humidity or adaptive control technology into account. Therefore, Electrolux has suggested an alternate test procedure that takes adaptive control technology into...

16 CFR 1101.52 - Procedure for retraction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Procedure for retraction. 1101.52 Section... INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Retraction § 1101.52 Procedure for retraction. (a) Initiative. The Commission may retract information under section 6(b)(7) on the...

16 CFR 1101.52 - Procedure for retraction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Procedure for retraction. 1101.52 Section... INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Retraction § 1101.52 Procedure for retraction. (a) Initiative. The Commission may retract information under section 6(b)(7) on the...

16 CFR 1101.52 - Procedure for retraction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedure for retraction. 1101.52 Section... INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Retraction § 1101.52 Procedure for retraction. (a) Initiative. The Commission may retract information under section 6(b)(7) on the...

16 CFR 1101.52 - Procedure for retraction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Procedure for retraction. 1101.52 Section... INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Retraction § 1101.52 Procedure for retraction. (a) Initiative. The Commission may retract information under section 6(b)(7) on the...

76 FR 57612 - Energy Efficiency Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Refrigerators...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-15

... (collectively, ``refrigeration products''). 75 FR 78810. The amended test procedures for residential... Rule also included amendments to these procedures that will, once finalized, apply to refrigeration... period deadline to ``30 days after the [refrigeration products] standards final rule is made available to...

75 FR 2122 - Additional Guidance Regarding Application of Current Procedures for Testing Energy Consumption of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-14

... prescribed or amended under this section shall be reasonably designed to produce test results which measure... Energy's (DOE) guidance to ensure the consistent application of DOE's current test procedure to...) to prescribe standardized test procedures to measure the energy consumption of certain consumer...

16 CFR 1027.8 - Procedures for salary offset.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Procedures for salary offset. 1027.8 Section 1027.8 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL SALARY OFFSET § 1027.8 Procedures for salary offset. (a) Deductions to liquidate an employee's debt will be by the method and in the...

Automatic Texture Mapping of Architectural and Archaeological 3d Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kersten, T. P.; Stallmann, D.

2012-07-01

Today, detailed, complete and exact 3D models with photo-realistic textures are increasingly demanded for numerous applications in architecture and archaeology. Manual texture mapping of 3D models by digital photographs with software packages, such as Maxon Cinema 4D, Autodesk 3Ds Max or Maya, still requires a complex and time-consuming workflow. So, procedures for automatic texture mapping of 3D models are in demand. In this paper two automatic procedures are presented. The first procedure generates 3D surface models with textures by web services, while the second procedure textures already existing 3D models with the software tmapper. The program tmapper is based on the Multi Layer 3D image (ML3DImage) algorithm and developed in the programming language C++. The studies showing that the visibility analysis using the ML3DImage algorithm is not sufficient to obtain acceptable results of automatic texture mapping. To overcome the visibility problem the Point Cloud Painter algorithm in combination with the Z-buffer-procedure will be applied in the future.

76 FR 22751 - Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, Consumer Education and Industry Information Order...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-22

... 23, 2011. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Maureen T. Pello, Marketing Specialist, Research and... procedure, Advertising, Consumer information, Marketing agreements, Softwood lumber, Promotion, Reporting... Vol. 76 Friday, No. 78 April 22, 2011 Part II Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing...

Professional Certification in Counseling Psychology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fretz, Bruce R.; And Others

1980-01-01

Certification procedures protect consumers, but when licensing institutions become monopolistic, alternative paths to credentialing need to be considered. A series of articles examine third party payments, a changing job market and consumer protection concerns, all of which have had an impact on credentialing problems. (JAC)

75 FR 676 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Certification, Compliance, and Enforcement...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-05

... Information Collection; Comment Request; Certification, Compliance, and Enforcement Requirements for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable... (EPCA) establishes energy and water conservation standards and test procedures for consumer products and...

16 CFR § 1702.1 - Purpose and policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

...§ 1702.1 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT REQUIREMENTS; PETITION PROCEDURES... substances the Consumer Product Safety Commission requires, under section 3(a)(1) of the Poison Prevention...

Fault detection in rotor bearing systems using time frequency techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chandra, N. Harish; Sekhar, A. S.

2016-05-01

Faults such as misalignment, rotor cracks and rotor to stator rub can exist collectively in rotor bearing systems. It is an important task for rotor dynamic personnel to monitor and detect faults in rotating machinery. In this paper, the rotor startup vibrations are utilized to solve the fault identification problem using time frequency techniques. Numerical simulations are performed through finite element analysis of the rotor bearing system with individual and collective combinations of faults as mentioned above. Three signal processing tools namely Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT), Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) and Hilbert Huang Transform (HHT) are compared to evaluate their detection performance. The effect of addition of Signal to Noise ratio (SNR) on three time frequency techniques is presented. The comparative study is focused towards detecting the least possible level of the fault induced and the computational time consumed. The computation time consumed by HHT is very less when compared to CWT based diagnosis. However, for noisy data CWT is more preferred over HHT. To identify fault characteristics using wavelets a procedure to adjust resolution of the mother wavelet is presented in detail. Experiments are conducted to obtain the run-up data of a rotor bearing setup for diagnosis of shaft misalignment and rotor stator rubbing faults.

Comparative cost-efficiency of the EVOTECH endoscope cleaner and reprocessor versus manual cleaning plus automated endoscope reprocessing in a real-world Canadian hospital endoscopy setting

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Reprocessing of endoscopes generally requires labour-intensive manual cleaning followed by high-level disinfection in an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER). EVOTECH Endoscope Cleaner and Reprocessor (ECR) is approved for fully automated cleaning and disinfection whereas AERs require manual cleaning prior to the high-level disinfection procedure. The purpose of this economic evaluation was to determine the cost-efficiency of the ECR versus AER methods of endoscopy reprocessing in an actual practice setting. Methods A time and motion study was conducted at a Canadian hospital to collect data on the personnel resources and consumable supplies costs associated with the use of EVOTECH ECR versus manual cleaning followed by AER with Medivators DSD-201. Reprocessing of all endoscopes was observed and timed for both reprocessor types over three days. Laboratory staff members were interviewed regarding the consumption and cost of all disposable supplies and equipment. Exact Wilcoxon rank sum test was used for assessing differences in total cycle reprocessing time. Results Endoscope reprocessing was significantly shorter with the ECR than with manual cleaning followed by AER. The differences in median time were 12.46 minutes per colonoscope (p < 0.0001), 6.31 minutes per gastroscope (p < 0.0001), and 5.66 minutes per bronchoscope (p = 0.0040). Almost 2 hours of direct labour time was saved daily with the ECR. The total per cycle cost of consumables and labour for maintenance was slightly higher for EVOTECH ECR versus manual cleaning followed by AER ($8.91 versus $8.31, respectively). Including the cost of direct labour time consumed in reprocessing scopes, the per cycle and annual costs of using the EVOTECH ECR was less than the cost of manual cleaning followed by AER disinfection ($11.50 versus $11.88). Conclusions The EVOTECH ECR was more efficient and less costly to use for the reprocessing of endoscopes than manual cleaning followed by AER disinfection. Although the cost of consumable supplies required to reprocess endoscopes with EVOTECH ECR was slightly higher, the value of the labour time saved with EVOTECH ECR more than offset the additional consumables cost. The increased efficiency with EVOTECH ECR could lead to even further cost-savings by shifting endoscopy laboratory personnel responsibilities but further study is required. PMID:21967345

Comparative cost-efficiency of the EVOTECH endoscope cleaner and reprocessor versus manual cleaning plus automated endoscope reprocessing in a real-world Canadian hospital endoscopy setting.

PubMed

Forte, Lindy; Shum, Cynthia

2011-10-03

Reprocessing of endoscopes generally requires labour-intensive manual cleaning followed by high-level disinfection in an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER). EVOTECH Endoscope Cleaner and Reprocessor (ECR) is approved for fully automated cleaning and disinfection whereas AERs require manual cleaning prior to the high-level disinfection procedure. The purpose of this economic evaluation was to determine the cost-efficiency of the ECR versus AER methods of endoscopy reprocessing in an actual practice setting. A time and motion study was conducted at a Canadian hospital to collect data on the personnel resources and consumable supplies costs associated with the use of EVOTECH ECR versus manual cleaning followed by AER with Medivators DSD-201. Reprocessing of all endoscopes was observed and timed for both reprocessor types over three days. Laboratory staff members were interviewed regarding the consumption and cost of all disposable supplies and equipment. Exact Wilcoxon rank sum test was used for assessing differences in total cycle reprocessing time. Endoscope reprocessing was significantly shorter with the ECR than with manual cleaning followed by AER. The differences in median time were 12.46 minutes per colonoscope (p < 0.0001), 6.31 minutes per gastroscope (p < 0.0001), and 5.66 minutes per bronchoscope (p = 0.0040). Almost 2 hours of direct labour time was saved daily with the ECR. The total per cycle cost of consumables and labour for maintenance was slightly higher for EVOTECH ECR versus manual cleaning followed by AER ($8.91 versus $8.31, respectively). Including the cost of direct labour time consumed in reprocessing scopes, the per cycle and annual costs of using the EVOTECH ECR was less than the cost of manual cleaning followed by AER disinfection ($11.50 versus $11.88). The EVOTECH ECR was more efficient and less costly to use for the reprocessing of endoscopes than manual cleaning followed by AER disinfection. Although the cost of consumable supplies required to reprocess endoscopes with EVOTECH ECR was slightly higher, the value of the labour time saved with EVOTECH ECR more than offset the additional consumables cost. The increased efficiency with EVOTECH ECR could lead to even further cost-savings by shifting endoscopy laboratory personnel responsibilities but further study is required.

Comparison of rigid and flexible endoscopy for removing esophageal foreign bodies in an emergency.

PubMed

Tseng, Chia-Chen; Hsiao, Tzu-Yu; Hsu, Wei-Chung

2016-08-01

Despite the effectiveness of endoscopies in removing ingested foreign bodies (FBs) impacted in the esophagus, the merits and limitations of flexible endoscopy (FE) and rigid endoscopy (RE) remain unclear. Therefore, this study compares the advantages and disadvantages of both endoscopic procedures from a clinical perspective. A retrospective review was made of 273 patients suspected of esophageal FBs in emergency consultations of a tertiary medical referral center from March 2010 to March 2014. All patients received routine physical examinations, otolaryngological examinations, and X-rays of the neck and chest. The door-to-endoscopy time, procedure time, postendoscopic hospital stay, successful removal rates, and complications were analyzed as well. In this study, the most common esophageal FBs were fish and animal bones (76%) in adults and coins (74%) in children. The patients with existing esophageal FBs had significantly more frequent symptoms of dysphagia and signs of linear opacity as detected with lateral neck radiography than those without FB. Additionally, the door-to-endoscopy time, procedure time, and postendoscopic hospital stay was significantly shorter in FE patients than in RE patients. However, both RE and FE patients had high rates of successful FB removal (95%) and low complication rates (2%). Both FE and RE remove esophageal FBs successfully, as evidenced by their high success rates, low complication rates, and high detection rates. Although FE under local anesthesia is a less time-consuming procedure for adults, RE under general anesthesia may be preferable for children and can serve as an alternative to FE. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

16 CFR 1301.5 - Banning criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS BAN OF... permanent or temporary household or residence, a school, in recreation or otherwise, which is in commerce or... using the procedures described in § 1301.7, is a banned hazardous product. (b) The Commission considers...

16 CFR 1301.5 - Banning criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS BAN OF... permanent or temporary household or residence, a school, in recreation or otherwise, which is in commerce or... using the procedures described in § 1301.7, is a banned hazardous product. (b) The Commission considers...

16 CFR 1301.5 - Banning criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS BAN OF... permanent or temporary household or residence, a school, in recreation or otherwise, which is in commerce or... using the procedures described in § 1301.7, is a banned hazardous product. (b) The Commission considers...

16 CFR 1301.5 - Banning criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS BAN OF... permanent or temporary household or residence, a school, in recreation or otherwise, which is in commerce or... using the procedures described in § 1301.7, is a banned hazardous product. (b) The Commission considers...

75 FR 27051 - Privacy Act of 1974: System of Records

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-13

... address and appears below: DOT/FMCSA 004 SYSTEM NAME: National Consumer Complaint Database (NCCDB.... A system, database, and procedures for filing and logging consumer complaints relating to household... are stored in an automated system operated and maintained at the Volpe National Transportation Systems...

29 CFR 1983.102 - Obligations and prohibited acts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF LABOR (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2008 Complaints, Investigations, Findings and... reasonably believes to be a violation of any provision of the Consumer Product Safety Act, as amended by...

29 CFR 1983.100 - Purpose and scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2008. Complaints, Investigations, Findings and Preliminary Orders § 1983.100... Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), 15 U.S.C. 2087. CPSIA provides for employee protection...

29 CFR 1983.100 - Purpose and scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2008. Complaints, Investigations, Findings and Preliminary Orders § 1983.100... Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), 15 U.S.C. 2087. CPSIA provides for employee protection...

29 CFR 1983.100 - Purpose and scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2008 Complaints, Investigations, Findings and Preliminary Orders § 1983.100... Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), 15 U.S.C. 2087. CPSIA provides for employee protection...

29 CFR 1985.102 - Obligations and prohibited acts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF LABOR (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER THE EMPLOYEE PROTECTION PROVISION OF THE CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION ACT OF 2010 Complaints, Investigations, Findings, and... Consumer Protection Act of 2010, Public Law 111-203, 124 Stat. 1376, 1955 (July 21, 2010), or any other...

Determining Consumer Preference for Furniture Product Characteristics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Turner, Carolyn S.; Edwards, Kay P.

1974-01-01

The paper describes instruments for determining preferences of consumers for selected product characteristics associated with furniture choices--specifically style, color, color scheme, texture, and materials--and the procedures for administration of those instruments. Results are based on a random sampling of public housing residents. (Author/MW)

Experimental study of pancreaticojejunostomy completed using anastomotic chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Wei-Dong; Xu, Rui-Yun; Li, Nan; Fang, He-Ping; Pan, Cu-Zhi; Tang, Zhao-Feng

2010-07-01

The most difficult, time-consuming, and complication-prone step in pancreaticoduodenectomy is the pancreaticojejunostomy step. The largest disadvantage of this kind of anastomosis is the high incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage. Once pancreatic leakage occurs, the patient death rate can be very high. The aim of this study was to design a pancreaticojejunostomy procedure using anastomotic chains, which results in the cut end of the jejunum being attached to the pancreatic stump without suturing, and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this procedure in domestic pigs. The pancreaticojejunal anastomotic chains had the following structures: the chains consisted of two braceletlike chains made of titanium, named chain A and chain B. The function of chain A was to attach the free jejunal end onto the pancreatic stump, whereas the function of chain B was to tighten the contact between the jejunal wall and the surface of the pancreatic stump to eliminate gaps between the two structures and ensure tightness that is sufficient to guarantee that there is no leakage of jejunal fluid or pancreatic juice. The following procedure was used to assess the safety and efficacy of the procedure: pancreaticojejunostomies were performed on ten domestic pigs using anastomotic chains. The time required to complete the pancreaticojejunal anastomoses, the pressure tolerance of the pancreaticojejunal anastomoses, the pig death rate, and the histopathological examinations of the pancreaticojejunostomy tissues were recorded. The average time required to complete the pancreaticojejunal anastomosis procedure was 13±2 min. The observed tolerance pressure of the pancreaticojejunal anastomoses was more than 90 mm H2O. All ten domestic pigs that underwent operations were still alive four weeks after the operations. Pathological examinations showed that the anastomotic surfaces were completely healed, and the pancreatic cutting surfaces were primarily epithelialized. In conclusion, the use of anastomotic chains in pancreaticojejunostomy procedures results in a decrease in or elimination of pancreatic leakage. In addition, the procedure is simple to perform, is not time-intensive, and appears to be safe in a pig model.

Studing Regional Wave Source Time Functions Using A Massive Automated EGF Deconvolution Procedure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, J. "; Schaff, D. P.

2010-12-01

Reliably estimated source time functions (STF) from high-frequency regional waveforms, such as Lg, Pn and Pg, provide important input for seismic source studies, explosion detection, and minimization of parameter trade-off in attenuation studies. The empirical Green’s function (EGF) method can be used for estimating STF, but it requires a strict recording condition. Waveforms from pairs of events that are similar in focal mechanism, but different in magnitude must be on-scale recorded on the same stations for the method to work. Searching for such waveforms can be very time consuming, particularly for regional waves that contain complex path effects and have reduced S/N ratios due to attenuation. We have developed a massive, automated procedure to conduct inter-event waveform deconvolution calculations from many candidate event pairs. The procedure automatically evaluates the “spikiness” of the deconvolutions by calculating their “sdc”, which is defined as the peak divided by the background value. The background value is calculated as the mean absolute value of the deconvolution, excluding 10 s around the source time function. When the sdc values are about 10 or higher, the deconvolutions are found to be sufficiently spiky (pulse-like), indicating similar path Green’s functions and good estimates of the STF. We have applied this automated procedure to Lg waves and full regional wavetrains from 989 M ≥ 5 events in and around China, calculating about a million deconvolutions. Of these we found about 2700 deconvolutions with sdc greater than 9, which, if having a sufficiently broad frequency band, can be used to estimate the STF of the larger events. We are currently refining our procedure, as well as the estimated STFs. We will infer the source scaling using the STFs. We will also explore the possibility that the deconvolution procedure could complement cross-correlation in a real time event-screening process.

Digital versus analog complete-arch impressions for single-unit premolar implant crowns: Operating time and patient preference.

PubMed

Schepke, Ulf; Meijer, Henny J A; Kerdijk, Wouter; Cune, Marco S

2015-09-01

Digital impression-making techniques are supposedly more patient friendly and less time-consuming than analog techniques, but evidence is lacking to substantiate this assumption. The purpose of this in vivo within-subject comparison study was to examine patient perception and time consumption for 2 complete-arch impression-making methods: a digital and an analog technique. Fifty participants with a single missing premolar were included. Treatment consisted of implant therapy. Three months after implant placement, complete-arch digital (Cerec Omnicam; Sirona) and analog impressions (semi-individual tray, Impregum; 3M ESPE) were made, and the participant's opinion was evaluated with a standard questionnaire addressing several domains (inconvenience, shortness of breath, fear of repeating the impression, and feelings of helplessness during the procedure) with the visual analog scale. All participants were asked which procedure they preferred. Operating time was measured with a stopwatch. The differences between impressions made for maxillary and mandibular implants were also compared. The data were analyzed with paired and independent sample t tests, and effect sizes were calculated. Statistically significant differences were found in favor of the digital procedure regarding all subjective domains (P<.001), with medium to large effect sizes. Of all the participants, over 80% preferred the digital procedure to the analog procedure. The mean duration of digital impression making was 6 minutes and 39 seconds (SD=1:51) versus 12 minutes and 13 seconds (SD=1:24) for the analog impression (P<.001, effect size=2.7). Digital impression making for the restoration of a single implant crown takes less time than analog impression making. Furthermore, participants preferred the digital scan and reported less inconvenience, less shortness of breath, less fear of repeating the impression, and fewer feelings of helplessness during the procedure. Copyright © 2015 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Finance issue brief: consumer grievance procedures: internal and independent appeals.

PubMed

Stauffer, M

1999-10-01

State lawmakers across the country have begun to play an important role in ensuring that managed care plans establish and maintain grievance and appeals procedures that are responsive to the needs of their constituents.

[Optimizing the financial impact of transitioning to transconjunctival vitrectomy and microincisional phacoemulsification].

PubMed

Cornut, P-L; Soldermann, Y; Robin, C; Barranco, R; Kerhoas, A; Burillon, C

2013-12-01

To report the financial impact of using modern lens and vitreoretinal surgical techniques. Bottom-up sterilization and consumables costs for new surgical techniques (microincisional coaxial phacoemulsification and transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy) and the corresponding former techniques (phacoemulsification with 3.2-mm incision and 20G vitrectomy) were determined. These costs were compared to each other and to the target costs of the Diagnosis Related Groups for public hospitals (Groupes Homogènes de Séjours [GHS]) concerned, extracted from the analytic accounting data of the French National Cost Study (Étude Nationale des Coûts [ENC]) for 2009 (target=sum of sterilization costs posted under medical logistics, consumables, implantable medical devices, and special pharmaceuticals posted as direct expenses). For outpatient lens surgery with or without vitrectomy (GHS code: 02C05J): the ENC's target cost for 2009 was 339€ out of a total of 1432€. The cost detailed in this study was 4 % higher than the target cost when the procedure was performed using the former technique (3.2mm sutured incision) and 12 % lower when the procedure was performed using the new technique (1.8mm sutureless) after removing now unnecessary consumables and optimization of the technique. For level I retinal detachment surgeries (GHS code: 02C021): the ENC's 2009 target cost was 641€ out of a total of 3091€. The cost specified in this study was 1 % lower than the target cost when the procedure was done using the former technique (20-G vitrectomy) and 16 % less when the procedure was performed using the new technique (transconjunctival vitrectomy) after removal of now unnecessary consumables and optimization of the technique. Contrary to generally accepted ideas, implementing modern techniques in ocular surgery can result in direct cost and sterilization savings when the operator takes advantage of the possibilities these techniques offer in terms of simplification of the procedures to do away with consumables that are no longer necessary. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

16 CFR 1014.3 - Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... POLICIES AND PROCEDURES IMPLEMENTING THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 § 1014.3 Procedures for requests pertaining to.../Privacy Act Officer, Office of the Secretary, Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East West Highway... information to the extent known with the request to the Freedom of Information/Privacy Act Officer or to the...

16 CFR 1014.3 - Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... POLICIES AND PROCEDURES IMPLEMENTING THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 § 1014.3 Procedures for requests pertaining to.../Privacy Act Officer, Office of the Secretary, Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East West Highway... information to the extent known with the request to the Freedom of Information/Privacy Act Officer or to the...

16 CFR § 1101.52 - Procedure for retraction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Procedure for retraction. § 1101.52 Section... REGULATIONS INFORMATION DISCLOSURE UNDER SECTION 6(b) OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT Retraction § 1101.52 Procedure for retraction. (a) Initiative. The Commission may retract information under section 6(b)(7) on...

Peer-Mediated Procedures to Induce Swallowing and Food Acceptance in Young Children.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greer, R. Douglas; And Others

1991-01-01

A peer modeling procedure was shown to induce swallowing in a young child with dysphagia, and to increase food acceptance in a young child who consistently declined food. A peer-mediated procedure, consisting of rotated opportunities to consume food with a peer, increased consumption more than did modeling alone. (Author/JDD)

75 FR 52892 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Water Heaters...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-30

.... Treatment of Fossil-Fuel Consumption in Existing Test Procedures for Fossil-Fuel Vented Heaters 2. Specific.... Proposed Test Procedure Amendments for Pool Heaters 1. Treatment of Fossil-Fuel Consumption in Existing.... Fossil-fuel standby mode and off mode energy use is already integrated into the vented [[Page 52895...

78 FR 79637 - Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Set-Top Boxes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-31

... Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Set-Top Boxes AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and... Energy (DOE) withdraws a proposed rule published January 23, 2013 to establish a test procedure to... additional types of consumer products as covered products. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(20)) DOE may prescribe test...

75 FR 62127 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver to...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-07

... Secretary of Energy to prescribe test procedures that are reasonably designed to produce results that... the Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and... (Whirlpool) a waiver from the DOE dishwasher test procedure for certain basic models containing integrated or...

78 FR 17925 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver to BSH...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-25

... test procedures that are reasonably designed to produce results that measure energy efficiency, energy... contains one or more design characteristics that prevent testing according to the prescribed test procedure... Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable...

78 FR 17927 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver to BSH...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-25

... test procedures that are reasonably designed to produce results that measure energy efficiency, energy... contains one or more design characteristics that prevent testing according to the prescribed test procedure... Department of Energy Residential Dishwasher Test Procedure AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable...

78 FR 62993 - Amendments to the 2013 Mortgage Rules Under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (Regulation...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-23

... (Regulation X) and the Truth in Lending Act (Regulation Z) AGENCY: Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection... Procedures Act (Regulation X) (2013 RESPA Servicing Final Rule); \\1\\ (2) the Mortgage Servicing Rules under... Homeownership Counseling Amendments to the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (Regulation X) (2013 HOEPA...

16 CFR § 1301.5 - Banning criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

....5 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY ACT REGULATIONS... around a permanent or temporary household or residence, a school, in recreation or otherwise, which is in....6 and using the procedures described in § 1301.7, is a banned hazardous product. (b) The Commission...

29 CFR 1983.102 - Obligations and prohibited acts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF LABOR (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2008. Complaints, Investigations, Findings and... Consumer Product Safety Act, as amended by CPSIA, or any other Act enforced by the Commission, or any order...

29 CFR 1983.102 - Obligations and prohibited acts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF LABOR (CONTINUED) PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF RETALIATION COMPLAINTS UNDER SECTION 219 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2008. Complaints, Investigations, Findings and... Consumer Product Safety Act, as amended by CPSIA, or any other Act enforced by the Commission, or any order...

Biosorption of platinum and palladium for their separation/preconcentration prior to graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometric determination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godlewska-Żyłkiewicz, Beata

2003-08-01

Inexpensive baker's yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and green algae Chlorella vulgaris, either free or immobilized on silica gel have been shown to selectively accumulate platinum and palladium from water samples in acidic medium (pH 1.6-1.8). Optimization of conditions of metals biosorption (sample pH, algae and yeast masses, adsorption time, temperature) was performed in batch mode. The procedure of matrix separation based on biosorption of platinum and palladium on algae C. vulgaris covalently immobilized on silica gel in flow mode was developed. The use of algae in flow procedure offers several advantages compared with its use in the batch mode. The procedure shows better reproducibility (<2%), improved efficiency of platinum retention on the column (93.3±1.6%), is less laborious and less time consuming. The best recovery of biosorbed metals from column (87.7±3.3% for platinum and 96.8±1.1 for palladium) was obtained with solution of 0.3 mol l -1 thiourea in 1 mol l -1 hydrochloric acid. The influence of thiourea on analytical signals of examined metals during GFAAS determination is discussed. The procedure has been applied for separation of noble metals from tap and waste water samples spiked with platinum and palladium.

Adult urethral stricture: practice of Turkish urologists

PubMed Central

Akyuz, Mehmet; Sertkaya, Zulfu; Koca, Orhan; Calıskan, Selahattin; Kutluhan, Musab Ali; Karaman, Muhammet Ihsan

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Objectives: To evaluate national practice patterns in the treatment of male anterior urethral strictures among Turkish urologists. Materials and Methods: A survey form including 12 questions prepared to determine active Turkish urologists' approach to diagnosis and treatment of the adult urethral stricture (US) were filled out. Based on the survey results, the institutions which 218 urologists work and their years of expertise, methods they used for diagnosis and treatment, whether or not they perform open urethroplasty and timing of open urethroplasty were investigated. Results: Optic internal urethrotomy and dilatation are the most commonly used minimal invasive procedures in treatment of US with the ratios of 93.5% and 63.3% respectively. On the other hand it was seen that urethroplasty was a less commonly used procedure, compared to minimal invasive techniques, with the ratio of 36.7%. Survey results showed us that the number of US cases observed and open urethroplasty procedures performed increases with increasing years of professional experience. Conclusions: As a method demanding special surgical experience and known as a time-consuming and challenging procedure, open urethroplasty will be able to take a greater part in current urological practice with the help of theoretical education and practical courses given by specific centers and experienced authors. PMID:27256189

Consumer exposure to substances in plastic packaging. I. Assessment of the contribution of styrene from yogurt pots.

PubMed

Vitrac, Olivier; Leblanc, Jean-Charles

2007-02-01

A generic methodology for the assessment of consumer exposure to substances migrating from packaging materials into foodstuffs during storage is presented. Consumer exposure at the level of individual households is derived from the probabilistic modeling of the contamination of all packed food product units (e.g. yogurt pot, milk bottle, etc.) consumed by a given household over 1 year. Exposure of a given population is estimated by gathering the exposure distributions of individual households to suitable weights (conveniently, household sizes). Calculations are made by combining (i) an efficient resolution of migration models and (ii) a methodology utilizing different sources of uncertainty and variability. The full procedure was applied to the assessment of consumer exposure to styrene from yogurt pots based on yearly purchase data of more than 5400 households in France (about 2 million yogurt pots) and an initial concentration c0 of styrene in yogurt pot walls, which is assumed to be normally distributed with an average value of 500 mg kg-1 and a standard deviation of 150 mg kg-1. Results are discussed regarding both sensitivity of the migration model to boundary conditions and household practices. By assuming a partition coefficient of 1 and a Biot number of 100, the estimated median household exposure to styrene ranged between 1 and 35 microg day-1 person-1 (5th and 95th percentiles) with a likely value of 12 microg day-1 person-1 (50th percentile). It was found that exposure does not vary independently with the average consumption rate and contact times. Thus, falsely assuming a uniform contact time equal to the sell-by-date for all yogurts overestimates significantly the daily exposure (5th and 95th percentiles of 2 and 110 microg day-1 person-1, respectively) since high consumers showed quicker turnover of stock.

Engaging physicians and consumers in conversations about treatment overuse and waste: a short history of the choosing wisely campaign.

PubMed

Wolfson, Daniel; Santa, John; Slass, Lorie

2014-07-01

Wise management of health care resources is a core tenet of medical professionalism. To support physicians in fulfilling this responsibility and to engage patients in discussions about unnecessary care, tests, and procedures, in April 2012 the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation, Consumer Reports, and nine medical specialty societies launched the Choosing Wisely campaign. The authors describe the rationale for and history of the campaign, its structure and approach in terms of engaging both physicians and patients, lessons learned, and future steps.In developing the Choosing Wisely campaign, the specialty societies each developed lists of five tests and procedures that physicians and patients should question. Over 50 specialty societies have developed more than 250 evidence-based recommendations, some of which Consumer Reports has "translated" into consumer-friendly language and helped disseminate to tens of millions of consumers. A number of delivery systems, specialty societies, state medical societies, and regional health collaboratives are also advancing the campaign's recommendations. The campaign's success lies in its unique focus on professional values and patient-physician conversations to reduce unnecessary care. Measurement and evaluation of the campaign's impact on attitudinal and behavioral change is needed.

Self-Calibrated In-Process Photogrammetry for Large Raw Part Measurement and Alignment before Machining

PubMed Central

Mendikute, Alberto; Zatarain, Mikel; Bertelsen, Álvaro; Leizea, Ibai

2017-01-01

Photogrammetry methods are being used more and more as a 3D technique for large scale metrology applications in industry. Optical targets are placed on an object and images are taken around it, where measuring traceability is provided by precise off-process pre-calibrated digital cameras and scale bars. According to the 2D target image coordinates, target 3D coordinates and camera views are jointly computed. One of the applications of photogrammetry is the measurement of raw part surfaces prior to its machining. For this application, post-process bundle adjustment has usually been adopted for computing the 3D scene. With that approach, a high computation time is observed, leading in practice to time consuming and user dependent iterative review and re-processing procedures until an adequate set of images is taken, limiting its potential for fast, easy-to-use, and precise measurements. In this paper, a new efficient procedure is presented for solving the bundle adjustment problem in portable photogrammetry. In-process bundle computing capability is demonstrated on a consumer grade desktop PC, enabling quasi real time 2D image and 3D scene computing. Additionally, a method for the self-calibration of camera and lens distortion has been integrated into the in-process approach due to its potential for highest precision when using low cost non-specialized digital cameras. Measurement traceability is set only by scale bars available in the measuring scene, avoiding the uncertainty contribution of off-process camera calibration procedures or the use of special purpose calibration artifacts. The developed self-calibrated in-process photogrammetry has been evaluated both in a pilot case scenario and in industrial scenarios for raw part measurement, showing a total in-process computing time typically below 1 s per image up to a maximum of 2 s during the last stages of the computed industrial scenes, along with a relative precision of 1/10,000 (e.g., 0.1 mm error in 1 m) with an error RMS below 0.2 pixels at image plane, ranging at the same performance reported for portable photogrammetry with precise off-process pre-calibrated cameras. PMID:28891946

Self-Calibrated In-Process Photogrammetry for Large Raw Part Measurement and Alignment before Machining.

PubMed

Mendikute, Alberto; Yagüe-Fabra, José A; Zatarain, Mikel; Bertelsen, Álvaro; Leizea, Ibai

2017-09-09

Photogrammetry methods are being used more and more as a 3D technique for large scale metrology applications in industry. Optical targets are placed on an object and images are taken around it, where measuring traceability is provided by precise off-process pre-calibrated digital cameras and scale bars. According to the 2D target image coordinates, target 3D coordinates and camera views are jointly computed. One of the applications of photogrammetry is the measurement of raw part surfaces prior to its machining. For this application, post-process bundle adjustment has usually been adopted for computing the 3D scene. With that approach, a high computation time is observed, leading in practice to time consuming and user dependent iterative review and re-processing procedures until an adequate set of images is taken, limiting its potential for fast, easy-to-use, and precise measurements. In this paper, a new efficient procedure is presented for solving the bundle adjustment problem in portable photogrammetry. In-process bundle computing capability is demonstrated on a consumer grade desktop PC, enabling quasi real time 2D image and 3D scene computing. Additionally, a method for the self-calibration of camera and lens distortion has been integrated into the in-process approach due to its potential for highest precision when using low cost non-specialized digital cameras. Measurement traceability is set only by scale bars available in the measuring scene, avoiding the uncertainty contribution of off-process camera calibration procedures or the use of special purpose calibration artifacts. The developed self-calibrated in-process photogrammetry has been evaluated both in a pilot case scenario and in industrial scenarios for raw part measurement, showing a total in-process computing time typically below 1 s per image up to a maximum of 2 s during the last stages of the computed industrial scenes, along with a relative precision of 1/10,000 (e.g. 0.1 mm error in 1 m) with an error RMS below 0.2 pixels at image plane, ranging at the same performance reported for portable photogrammetry with precise off-process pre-calibrated cameras.

The effect of increased consumer demand on fees for aesthetic surgery: an economic analysis.

PubMed

Krieger, L M; Shaw, W W

1999-12-01

Economic theory dictates that changes in consumer demand have predictable effects on prices. Demographics represents an important component of demand for aesthetic surgery. Between the years of 1997 and 2010, the U.S. population is projected to increase by 12 percent. The population increase will be skewed such that those groups undergoing the most aesthetic surgery will see the largest increase. Accounting for the age-specific frequencies of aesthetic surgery and the population increase yields an estimate that the overall market for aesthetic surgery will increase by 19 percent. Barring unforeseen changes in general economic conditions or consumer tastes, demand should increase by an analogous amount. An economic demonstration shows the effects of increasing demand for aesthetic surgery on its fees. Between the years of 1992 and 1997, there was an increase in demand for breast augmentation as fears of associated autoimmune disorders subsided. Similarly, there was increased male acceptance of aesthetic surgery. The number of breast augmentations and procedures to treat male pattern baldness, plastic surgeons, and fees for the procedures were tracked. During the study period, the supply of surgeons and consumer demand increased for both of these procedures. Volume of breast augmentation increased by 275 percent, whereas real fees remained stable. Volume of treatment for male pattern baldness increased by 107 percent, and the fees increased by 29 percent. Ordinarily, an increase in supply leads to a decrease in prices. This did not occur during the study period. Economic analysis demonstrates that the increased supply of surgeons performing breast augmentation was offset by increased consumer demand for the procedure. For this reason, fees were not lowered. Similarly, increased demand for treatment of male pattern baldness more than offset the increased supply of surgeons performing it. The result was higher fees. Emphasis should be placed on using these economic relationships to expand the demand for aesthetic surgery.

Comparative Cost Analysis of Surgical and PrePex Device Male Circumcision in Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

PubMed

Schutte, Carl; Tshimanga, M; Mugurungi, Owen; Come, Iotamo; Necochea, Edgar; Mahomed, Mehebub; Xaba, Sinokuthemba; Bossemeyer, Debora; Ferreira, Thais; Macaringue, Lucinda; Chatikobo, Pessanai; Gundididza, Patricia; Hatzold, Karin

2016-06-01

The PrePex device has proven to be safe for voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) in adults in several African countries. Costing studies were conducted as part of a PrePex/Surgery comparison study in Zimbabwe and a pilot implementation study in Mozambique. The studies calculated per male circumcision unit costs using a cost-analysis approach. Both direct costs (consumable and nonconsumable supplies, device, personnel, associated staff training) and selected indirect costs (capital and support personnel costs) were calculated. The cost comparison in Zimbabwe showed a unit cost per VMMC of $45.50 for PrePex and $53.08 for surgery. The unit cost difference was based on higher personnel and consumable supplies costs for the surgical procedure, which used disposable instrument kits. In Mozambique, the costing analysis estimated a higher unit cost for PrePex circumcision ($40.66) than for surgery ($20.85) because of higher consumable costs, particularly the PrePex device and lower consumable supplies costs for the surgical procedure using reusable instruments. Supplies and direct staff costs contributed 87.2% for PrePex and 65.8% for surgical unit costs in Mozambique. PrePex device male circumcision could potentially be cheaper than surgery in Zimbabwe, especially in settings that lack the infrastructure and personnel required for surgical VMMC, and this might result in programmatic cost savings. In Mozambique, the surgical procedure seems to be less costly compared with PrePex mainly because of higher consumable supplies costs. With reduced device unit costs, PrePex VMMC could become more cost-efficient and considered as complementary for Mozambique's VMMC scale-up program.

Automatized set-up procedure for transcranial magnetic stimulation protocols.

PubMed

Harquel, S; Diard, J; Raffin, E; Passera, B; Dall'Igna, G; Marendaz, C; David, O; Chauvin, A

2017-06-01

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) established itself as a powerful technique for probing and treating the human brain. Major technological evolutions, such as neuronavigation and robotized systems, have continuously increased the spatial reliability and reproducibility of TMS, by minimizing the influence of human and experimental factors. However, there is still a lack of efficient set-up procedure, which prevents the automation of TMS protocols. For example, the set-up procedure for defining the stimulation intensity specific to each subject is classically done manually by experienced practitioners, by assessing the motor cortical excitability level over the motor hotspot (HS) of a targeted muscle. This is time-consuming and introduces experimental variability. Therefore, we developed a probabilistic Bayesian model (AutoHS) that automatically identifies the HS position. Using virtual and real experiments, we compared the efficacy of the manual and automated procedures. AutoHS appeared to be more reproducible, faster, and at least as reliable as classical manual procedures. By combining AutoHS with robotized TMS and automated motor threshold estimation methods, our approach constitutes the first fully automated set-up procedure for TMS protocols. The use of this procedure decreases inter-experimenter variability while facilitating the handling of TMS protocols used for research and clinical routine. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Wrist electrogoniometry: are current mathematical correction procedures effective in reducing crosstalk in functional assessment?

PubMed

Foltran, Fabiana A; Silva, Luciana C C B; Sato, Tatiana O; Coury, Helenice J C G

2013-01-01

The recording of human movement is an essential requirement for biomechanical, clinical, and occupational analysis, allowing assessment of postural variation, occupational risks, and preventive programs in physical therapy and rehabilitation. The flexible electrogoniometer (EGM), considered a reliable and accurate device, is used for dynamic recordings of different joints. Despite these advantages, the EGM is susceptible to measurement errors, known as crosstalk. There are two known types of crosstalk: crosstalk due to sensor rotation and inherent crosstalk. Correction procedures have been proposed to correct these errors; however no study has used both procedures in clinical measures for wrist movements with the aim to optimize the correction. To evaluate the effects of mathematical correction procedures on: 1) crosstalk due to forearm rotation, 2) inherent sensor crosstalk; and 3) the combination of these two procedures. 43 healthy subjects had their maximum range of motion of wrist flexion/extension and ulnar/radials deviation recorded by EGM. The results were analyzed descriptively, and procedures were compared by differences. There was no significant difference in measurements before and after the application of correction procedures (P<0.05). Furthermore, the differences between the correction procedures were less than 5° in most cases, having little impact on the measurements. Considering the time-consuming data analysis, the specific technical knowledge involved, and the inefficient results, the correction procedures are not recommended for wrist recordings by EGM.

77 FR 23222 - Foreign-Trade Zone 59, Temporary/Interim Manufacturing Authority, Novartis Consumer Health, Inc...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-18

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Foreign-Trade Zones Board [Docket T-2-2012] Foreign-Trade Zone 59, Temporary/Interim Manufacturing Authority, Novartis Consumer Health, Inc., (Pharmaceutical Product... manufacture pharmaceutical products under FTZ procedures within FTZ 59--Sites 3 and 4, in Lincoln, Nebraska...

47 CFR 64.1110 - State notification of election to administer FCC rules.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau Chief. Such notification shall contain, at a minimum, information on where consumers should file complaints, the type of documentation, if any, that must accompany a complaint, and the procedures the state will use to adjudicate complaints. (b) Withdrawal of Notification...

Consumer Rights in Counseling: Duty to Disclose.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paradise, Louis V.

1990-01-01

Contends counselors should give potential clients enough information in the initial session to make a decision about whether they are right for their counselor and whether their counselor is right for them. Claims using a brochure detailing consumer rights and responsibilities, qualifications of the counselor, and general grievance procedures is…

12 CFR 1024.1 - Designation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 8 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Designation. 1024.1 Section 1024.1 Banks and Banking BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION REAL ESTATE SETTLEMENT PROCEDURES ACT (REGULATION X) § 1024.1 Designation. This part, known as Regulation X, is issued by the Bureau of Consumer Financial...

12 CFR 1024.1 - Designation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 8 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Designation. 1024.1 Section 1024.1 Banks and Banking BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION REAL ESTATE SETTLEMENT PROCEDURES ACT (REGULATION X) § 1024.1 Designation. This part, known as Regulation X, is issued by the Bureau of Consumer Financial...

Consumer-Oriented Laboratory Activities: A Manual for Secondary Science Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Jacqueline; McDuffie, Thomas E., Jr.

This document provides a laboratory manual for use by secondary level students in performing consumer-oriented laboratory experiments. Each experiment includes an introductory question outlining the purpose of the investigation, a detailed discussion, detailed procedures, questions to be answered upon completing the experiment, and information for…

Advantages and challenges in automated apatite fission track counting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Enkelmann, E.; Ehlers, T. A.

2012-04-01

Fission track thermochronometer data are often a core element of modern tectonic and denudation studies. Soon after the development of the fission track methods interest emerged for the developed an automated counting procedure to replace the time consuming labor of counting fission tracks under the microscope. Automated track counting became feasible in recent years with increasing improvements in computer software and hardware. One such example used in this study is the commercial automated fission track counting procedure from Autoscan Systems Pty that has been highlighted through several venues. We conducted experiments that are designed to reliably and consistently test the ability of this fully automated counting system to recognize fission tracks in apatite and a muscovite external detector. Fission tracks were analyzed in samples with a step-wise increase in sample complexity. The first set of experiments used a large (mm-size) slice of Durango apatite cut parallel to the prism plane. Second, samples with 80-200 μm large apatite grains of Fish Canyon Tuff were analyzed. This second sample set is characterized by complexities often found in apatites in different rock types. In addition to the automated counting procedure, the same samples were also analyzed using conventional counting procedures. We found for all samples that the fully automated fission track counting procedure using the Autoscan System yields a larger scatter in the fission track densities measured compared to conventional (manual) track counting. This scatter typically resulted from the false identification of tracks due surface and mineralogical defects, regardless of the image filtering procedure used. Large differences between track densities analyzed with the automated counting persisted between different grains analyzed in one sample as well as between different samples. As a result of these differences a manual correction of the fully automated fission track counts is necessary for each individual surface area and grain counted. This manual correction procedure significantly increases (up to four times) the time required to analyze a sample with the automated counting procedure compared to the conventional approach.

Readability of ASPS and ASAPS educational web sites: an analysis of consumer impact.

PubMed

Aliu, Oluseyi; Chung, Kevin C

2010-04-01

Patients use the Internet to educate themselves about health-related topics, and learning about plastic surgery is a common activity for enthusiastic consumers in the United States. How to educate consumers regarding plastic surgical procedures is a continued concern for plastic surgeons when faced with the growing portion of the American population having relatively low health care literacy. The usefulness of health-related education materials on the Internet depends largely on their comprehensibility and understandability for all who visit the Web sites. The authors studied the readability of patient education materials related to common plastic surgery procedures from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) Web sites and compared them with materials on similar topics from 10 popular health information-providing sites. The authors found that all analyzed documents on the ASPS and ASAPS Web sites targeted to the consumers were rated to be more difficult than the recommended reading grade level for most American adults, and these documents were consistently among the most difficult to read when compared with the other health information Web sites. The Internet is an increasingly popular avenue for patients to educate themselves about plastic surgery procedures. Patient education material provided on ASPS and ASAPS Web sites should be written at recommended reading grade levels to ensure that it is readable and comprehensible to the targeted audience.

7 CFR 1220.209 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SOYBEAN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Soybean Promotion and Research Order United Soybean Board § 1220.209 Procedure. (a) At... on annual average soybean production of the three previous years. If a unit is represented by more...

7 CFR 1220.209 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SOYBEAN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Soybean Promotion and Research Order United Soybean Board § 1220.209 Procedure. (a) At... on annual average soybean production of the three previous years. If a unit is represented by more...

40 CFR 80.141 - Interim detergent gasoline program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... considered acceptable for demonstration of IVD control performance. Examples of acceptable test procedures... carburetor deposits. Examples of acceptable test procedures for demonstration of carburetor deposit control... ultimate consumer; (ii) All additized post-refinery component (PRC); and (iii) All detergent additives sold...

40 CFR 80.141 - Interim detergent gasoline program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... considered acceptable for demonstration of IVD control performance. Examples of acceptable test procedures... carburetor deposits. Examples of acceptable test procedures for demonstration of carburetor deposit control... ultimate consumer; (ii) All additized post-refinery component (PRC); and (iii) All detergent additives sold...

40 CFR 80.141 - Interim detergent gasoline program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... considered acceptable for demonstration of IVD control performance. Examples of acceptable test procedures... carburetor deposits. Examples of acceptable test procedures for demonstration of carburetor deposit control... ultimate consumer; (ii) All additized post-refinery component (PRC); and (iii) All detergent additives sold...

40 CFR 80.141 - Interim detergent gasoline program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... considered acceptable for demonstration of IVD control performance. Examples of acceptable test procedures... carburetor deposits. Examples of acceptable test procedures for demonstration of carburetor deposit control... ultimate consumer; (ii) All additized post-refinery component (PRC); and (iii) All detergent additives sold...

Finance issue brief: consumer grievance procedures: internal and independent appeals: year end report-2002.

PubMed

Morgan, Rachel; MacEachern, Lillian

2002-12-31

State lawmakers across the country have begun to play an important role in ensuring that managed care plans establish and maintain grievance and appeals procedures that are responsive to the needs of their constituents.

Solving satisfiability problems using a novel microarray-based DNA computer.

PubMed

Lin, Che-Hsin; Cheng, Hsiao-Ping; Yang, Chang-Biau; Yang, Chia-Ning

2007-01-01

An algorithm based on a modified sticker model accompanied with an advanced MEMS-based microarray technology is demonstrated to solve SAT problem, which has long served as a benchmark in DNA computing. Unlike conventional DNA computing algorithms needing an initial data pool to cover correct and incorrect answers and further executing a series of separation procedures to destroy the unwanted ones, we built solutions in parts to satisfy one clause in one step, and eventually solve the entire Boolean formula through steps. No time-consuming sample preparation procedures and delicate sample applying equipment were required for the computing process. Moreover, experimental results show the bound DNA sequences can sustain the chemical solutions during computing processes such that the proposed method shall be useful in dealing with large-scale problems.

Current status of endoluminal grafting for exclusion of abdominal aortic aneurysms. The beauty and the beast.

PubMed Central

Diethrich, E B

1998-01-01

The exclusion of abdominal aortic aneurysms with endoluminal grafts has generated a great deal of interest since the early 1990s, and many centers are currently evaluating the procedure and comparing it to classic surgical exclusion. Although endoluminal grafting procedures show promise, development and clinical testing of devices is a time-consuming process that is influenced greatly by the regulatory climate in the country where the clinical trials take place. Nevertheless, a number of devices are currently under study, and the advantages of 2nd- and 3rd-generation technology are reflected in reduced rates of complications such as endoleaks and thrombosis. Further study will be required to perfect these devices and observe their long-term success in the exclusion of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Images PMID:9566057

Current status of endoluminal grafting for exclusion of abdominal aortic aneurysms. The beauty and the beast.

PubMed

Diethrich, E B

1998-01-01

The exclusion of abdominal aortic aneurysms with endoluminal grafts has generated a great deal of interest since the early 1990s, and many centers are currently evaluating the procedure and comparing it to classic surgical exclusion. Although endoluminal grafting procedures show promise, development and clinical testing of devices is a time-consuming process that is influenced greatly by the regulatory climate in the country where the clinical trials take place. Nevertheless, a number of devices are currently under study, and the advantages of 2nd- and 3rd-generation technology are reflected in reduced rates of complications such as endoleaks and thrombosis. Further study will be required to perfect these devices and observe their long-term success in the exclusion of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

ActiviTeen: A Protocol for Deployment of a Consumer Wearable Device in an Academic Setting.

PubMed

Ortiz, Alexa M; Tueller, Stephen J; Cook, Sarah L; Furberg, Robert D

2016-07-25

Regular physical activity (PA) can be an important indicator of health across an individual's life span. Consumer wearables, such as Fitbit or Jawbone, are becoming increasingly popular to track PA. With the increased adoption of activity trackers comes the increased generation of valuable individual-based data. Generated data has the potential to provide detailed insights into the user's behavior and lifestyle. The primary objective of the described study is to evaluate the feasibility of individual data collection from the selected consumer wearable device (the Fitbit Zip). The rate of user attrition and barriers preventing the use of consumer wearable devices will also be evaluated as secondary objectives. The pilot study will occur in two stages and employs a long-term review and analysis with a convenience sample of 30 students attending Research Triangle High School. For the first stage, students will initially be asked to wear the Fitbit Zip over the course of 4 weeks. During which time, their activity data and step count will be collected. Students will also be asked to complete a self-administered survey at the beginning and conclusion of the first stage. The second stage will continue to collect students' activity data and step count over an additional 3-month period. We are anticipating results for this study by the end of 2016. This study will provide insight into the data collection procedures surrounding consumer wearable devices and could serve as the future foundation for other studies deploying consumer wearable devices in educational settings.

Seafood Safety and Quality: The Consumer’s Role

PubMed Central

Hicks, Doris T.

2016-01-01

All the good news about seafood—the health and nutritional benefits, the wide varieties and flavors—has had a positive effect on consumption: people are eating more seafood (http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/seafood/pdfs/SeafoodSavvy.pdf). Yet consumers want to be assured that seafood is as safe as, or safer to eat than, other foods. When you hear “seafood safety”, think of a safety net designed to protect you, the consumer, from food-borne illness. Every facet of the seafood industry, from harvester to consumer, plays a role in holding up the safety net. The role of state and federal agencies, fishermen, aquaculturists, retailers, processors, restaurants, and scientists is to provide, update, and carry out the necessary handling, processing, and inspection procedures to give consumers the safest seafood possible. The consumer’s responsibility is to follow through with proper handling techniques, from purchase to preparation. It doesn’t matter how many regulations and inspection procedures are set up; the final edge of the safety net is held by the consumer. This article will give you the information you need to educate yourself and be assured that the fish and shellfish you consume are safe. The most common food-borne illnesses are caused by a combination of bacteria naturally present in our environment and food handling errors made in commercial settings, food service institutions, or at home. PMID:28231165

A Documentation System to Save Time and Ensure Proper Application of the Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES®)

PubMed Central

Hey, Christiane; Pluschinski, Petra; Stanschus, Soenke; Euler, Harald A.; Sader, Robert A.; Langmore, Susan; Neumann, Katrin

2011-01-01

A properly performed fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES®) is comprehensive and time-consuming. Editing times of FEES protocols and attempts for efficiency maximization are unknown. Here, the protocol editing times of completed FEES examinations were determined. The present study reports the time savings and quality gains of a newly developed documentation system tailored to the FEES standard of Langmore. Four independent examiners analyzed twelve videos of FEES procedures, six without and six with the documentation system. Effectiveness of the documentation system was evaluated according to the times for total evaluation, interpretation, documentation, report writing, and for report completeness. The documentation system reduced editing times and increased report completeness with large effect sizes. Averaged total evaluation time decreased from 42 to 27 min, report completeness increased from 55 to 80%. The use of the documentation system facilitates and improves the assessment of the swallowing process. PMID:20938202

Numerical modeling and optimization of the Iguassu gas centrifuge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogovalov, S. V.; Borman, V. D.; Borisevich, V. D.; Tronin, V. N.; Tronin, I. V.

2017-07-01

The full procedure of the numerical calculation of the optimized parameters of the Iguassu gas centrifuge (GC) is under discussion. The procedure consists of a few steps. On the first step the problem of a hydrodynamical flow of the gas in the rotating rotor of the GC is solved numerically. On the second step the problem of diffusion of the binary mixture of isotopes is solved. The separation power of the gas centrifuge is calculated after that. On the last step the time consuming procedure of optimization of the GC is performed providing us the maximum of the separation power. The optimization is based on the BOBYQA method exploring the results of numerical simulations of the hydrodynamics and diffusion of the mixture of isotopes. Fast convergence of calculations is achieved due to exploring of a direct solver at the solution of the hydrodynamical and diffusion parts of the problem. Optimized separative power and optimal internal parameters of the Iguassu GC with 1 m rotor were calculated using the developed approach. Optimization procedure converges in 45 iterations taking 811 minutes.

Efficient etching-free transfer of high quality, large-area CVD grown graphene onto polyvinyl alcohol films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marta, Bogdan; Leordean, Cosmin; Istvan, Todor; Botiz, Ioan; Astilean, Simion

2016-02-01

Graphene transfer is a procedure of paramount importance for the production of graphene-based electronic devices. The transfer procedure can affect the electronic properties of the transferred graphene and can be detrimental for possible applications both due to procedure induced defects which can appear and due to scalability of the method. Hence, it is important to investigate new transfer methods for graphene that are less time consuming and show great promise. In the present study we propose an efficient, etching-free transfer method that consists in applying a thin polyvinyl alcohol layer on top of the CVD grown graphene on Cu and then peeling-off the graphene onto the polyvinyl alcohol film. We investigate the quality of the transferred graphene before and after the transfer, using Raman spectroscopy and imaging as well as optical and atomic force microscopy techniques. This simple transfer method is scalable and can lead to complete transfer of graphene onto flexible and transparent polymer support films without affecting the quality of the graphene during the transfer procedure.

Capturing, using, and managing quality assurance knowledge for shuttle post-MECO flight design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peters, H. L.; Fussell, L. R.; Goodwin, M. A.; Schultz, Roger D.

1991-01-01

Ascent initialization values used by the Shuttle's onboard computer for nominal and abort mission scenarios are verified by a six degrees of freedom computer simulation. The procedure that the Ascent Post Main Engine Cutoff (Post-MECO) group uses to perform quality assurance (QA) of the simulation is time consuming. Also, the QA data, checklists and associated rationale, though known by the group members, is not sufficiently documented, hindering transfer of knowledge and problem resolution. A new QA procedure which retains the current high level of integrity while reducing the time required to perform QA is needed to support the increasing Shuttle flight rate. Documenting the knowledge is also needed to increase its availability for training and problem resolution. To meet these needs, a knowledge capture process, embedded into the group activities, was initiated to verify the existing QA checks, define new ones, and document all rationale. The resulting checks were automated in a conventional software program to achieve the desired standardization, integrity, and time reduction. A prototype electronic knowledge base was developed with Macintosh's HyperCard to serve as a knowledge capture tool and data storage.

16 CFR 1702.2 - Procedural requirements and recommendations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Procedural requirements and recommendations. 1702.2 Section 1702.2 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT REQUIREMENTS...

16 CFR 1702.2 - Procedural requirements and recommendations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Procedural requirements and recommendations. 1702.2 Section 1702.2 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT REQUIREMENTS...

Effects of delay and probability combinations on discounting in humans

PubMed Central

Cox, David J.; Dallery, Jesse

2017-01-01

To determine discount rates, researchers typically adjust the amount of an immediate or certain option relative to a delayed or uncertain option. Because this adjusting amount method can be relatively time consuming, researchers have developed more efficient procedures. One such procedure is a 5-trial adjusting delay procedure, which measures the delay at which an amount of money loses half of its value (e.g., $1000 is valued at $500 with a 10-year delay to its receipt). Experiment 1 (n = 212) used 5-trial adjusting delay or probability tasks to measure delay discounting of losses, probabilistic gains, and probabilistic losses. Experiment 2 (n = 98) assessed combined probabilistic and delayed alternatives. In both experiments, we compared results from 5-trial adjusting delay or probability tasks to traditional adjusting amount procedures. Results suggest both procedures produced similar rates of probability and delay discounting in six out of seven comparisons. A magnitude effect consistent with previous research was observed for probabilistic gains and losses, but not for delayed losses. Results also suggest that delay and probability interact to determine the value of money. Five-trial methods may allow researchers to assess discounting more efficiently as well as study more complex choice scenarios. PMID:27498073

Prototype of a computer method for designing and analyzing heating, ventilating and air conditioning proportional, electronic control systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barlow, Steven J.

1986-09-01

The Air Force needs a better method of designing new and retrofit heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) control systems. Air Force engineers currently use manual design/predict/verify procedures taught at the Air Force Institute of Technology, School of Civil Engineering, HVAC Control Systems course. These existing manual procedures are iterative and time-consuming. The objectives of this research were to: (1) Locate and, if necessary, modify an existing computer-based method for designing and analyzing HVAC control systems that is compatible with the HVAC Control Systems manual procedures, or (2) Develop a new computer-based method of designing and analyzing HVAC control systems that is compatible with the existing manual procedures. Five existing computer packages were investigated in accordance with the first objective: MODSIM (for modular simulation), HVACSIM (for HVAC simulation), TRNSYS (for transient system simulation), BLAST (for building load and system thermodynamics) and Elite Building Energy Analysis Program. None were found to be compatible or adaptable to the existing manual procedures, and consequently, a prototype of a new computer method was developed in accordance with the second research objective.

12 CFR 267.2 - Purposes and objectives of the Council.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... RESERVE SYSTEM RULES OF ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURE OF THE CONSUMER ADVISORY COUNCIL § 267.2 Purposes and objectives of the Council. The Council shall advise and consult with the Board in the exercise of the Board's functions under the Consumer Credit Protection Act and with regard to other matters the Board may place...

5 CFR 1215.29 - Use of credit reporting agencies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... reported to a credit reporting agency. (b) Debts may be reported to consumer or commercial reporting agencies. Consumer reporting agencies are defined in 31 U.S.C. 3701(a)(3) pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552a(b)(12... Section 1215.29 Administrative Personnel MERIT SYSTEMS PROTECTION BOARD ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURES DEBT...

78 FR 79729 - Integrated Mortgage Disclosures Under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (Regulation X...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-31

...-scale quantitative validation study of its integrated disclosures with 858 consumers, which concluded.../consumer-financial-protection-bureau-proposes-know-before-you-owe-mortgage-forms/ ; see also Blog post, U.S.... After additional study, the Bureau may propose rules on either or both topics. The Bureau also decided...

40 CFR 1065.15 - Overview of procedures for laboratory and field testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... nitrogen, NOX. (2) Hydrocarbons, HC, which may be expressed in the following ways: (i) Total hydrocarbons... fuel consumed or calculate it with chemical balances of the fuel, intake air, and exhaust. To calculate fuel consumed by a chemical balance, you must also measure either intake-air flow rate or exhaust flow...

77 FR 33106 - Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Microwave Ovens

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-05

... due to the different masses and shapes of the potatoes. DOE observed, similar to the tests for... consumer use, (2) the repeatability of energy use measurements using different food loads, and (3) consumer... ``normal usage'' and the water temperature rise of 50 degrees Celsius ([deg]C) achieves eating temperature...

12 CFR 717.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 571.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 334.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief— (1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 334.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief. (1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 717.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 6 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 334.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief— (1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 334.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief. (1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 717.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 717.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 571.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 6 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 334.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 717.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

12 CFR 571.82 - Duties of users regarding address discrepancies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Duties of users regarding address discrepancies... consumer report and the address(es) in the agency's file for the consumer. (c) Reasonable belief—(1) Requirement to form a reasonable belief. A user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures...

Investigation and Synthesis of High Temperature and Increased Stiffness RSP Aluminum Alloys

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-11-30

under argon atmosphere using a water cooled copper crucible and a non-consumable tungsten electrode. This pro- cedure was followed in previous studies... copper crucible and a non-consum- able tungsten electrode. This procedure was followed in previous studies of Al-Zr-V (5,7). * Presently with National

The Role of Consumers in Planning and Evaluation of College Health Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Remer, Robert B.

This report presents the thesis that most college health services will have to undergo critical reexamination and drastic changes before students can rightfully participate as consumers and before effective planning becomes standard operating procedure. The two basic areas where these changes will have to occur are: (1) in consideration and…

12 CFR 232.4 - Specific exceptions for obtaining and using medical information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing cosmetic surgery, the creditor may... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing vision correction surgery, the creditor may verify with the surgeon that the procedure will be performed. If the surgeon reports that surgery...

12 CFR 232.4 - Specific exceptions for obtaining and using medical information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing cosmetic surgery, the creditor may... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing vision correction surgery, the creditor may verify with the surgeon that the procedure will be performed. If the surgeon reports that surgery...

12 CFR 232.4 - Specific exceptions for obtaining and using medical information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing cosmetic surgery, the creditor may... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing vision correction surgery, the creditor may verify with the surgeon that the procedure will be performed. If the surgeon reports that surgery...

12 CFR 232.4 - Specific exceptions for obtaining and using medical information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing cosmetic surgery, the creditor may... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing vision correction surgery, the creditor may verify with the surgeon that the procedure will be performed. If the surgeon reports that surgery...

12 CFR 232.4 - Specific exceptions for obtaining and using medical information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing cosmetic surgery, the creditor may... consumer applies for $10,000 of credit for the purpose of financing vision correction surgery, the creditor may verify with the surgeon that the procedure will be performed. If the surgeon reports that surgery...

77 FR 76972 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-31

... Conservation Program for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment: Proposed... the criteria for covered equipment under Part A-1 of Title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation... the Energy Policy and Conservation Act V. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review A. Review Under...

76 FR 78500 - Consumer Leasing (Regulation M)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-19

... in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI- W), as published by the..., and practice.\\14\\ The Bureau finds that there is good cause to conclude that providing notice and..., procedure, and practice and are thus exempt from the APA's notice-and-comment requirements. \\12\\ 5 U.S.C...

16 CFR 1605.13 - Procedures for Consent Order Agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

.... 1605.13 Section 1605.13 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION FLAMMABLE FABRICS ACT... including any rights to seek judicial review or otherwise challenge or contest the validity of the....), the Flammable Fabrics Act (15 U.S.C. 1191 et seq.), and the Consumer Product Safety Act (15 U.S.C...

ASSESSMENT OF ATTENTION THRESHOLD IN RATS BY TITRATION OF VISUAL CUE DURATION DURING THE FIVE CHOICE SERIAL REACTION TIME TASK

PubMed Central

Martin, Thomas J.; Grigg, Amanda; Kim, Susy A.; Ririe, Douglas G.; Eisenach, James C.

2014-01-01

Background The 5 choice serial reaction time task (5CSRTT) is commonly used to assess attention in rodents. We sought to develop a variant of the 5CSRTT that would speed training to objective success criteria, and to test whether this variant could determine attention capability in each subject. New Method Fisher 344 rats were trained to perform a variant of the 5CSRTT in which the duration of visual cue presentation (cue duration) was titrated between trials based upon performance. The cue duration was decreased when the subject made a correct response, or increased with incorrect responses or omissions. Additionally, test day challenges were provided consisting of lengthening the intertrial interval and inclusion of a visual distracting stimulus. Results Rats readily titrated the cue duration to less than 1 sec in 25 training sessions or less (mean ± SEM, 22.9 ± 0.7), and the median cue duration (MCD) was calculated as a measure of attention threshold. Increasing the intertrial interval increased premature responses, decreased the number of trials completed, and increased the MCD. Decreasing the intertrial interval and time allotted for consuming the food reward demonstrated that a minimum of 3.5 sec is required for rats to consume two food pellets and successfully attend to the next trial. Visual distraction in the form of a 3 Hz flashing light increased the MCD and both premature and time out responses. Comparison with existing method The titration variant of the 5CSRTT is a useful method that dynamically measures attention threshold across a wide range of subject performance, and significantly decreases the time required for training. Task challenges produce similar effects in the titration method as reported for the classical procedure. Conclusions The titration 5CSRTT method is an efficient training procedure for assessing attention and can be utilized to assess the limit in performance ability across subjects and various schedule manipulations. PMID:25528113

EMR is not inferior to ESD for early Barrett’s and EGJ neoplasia: An extensive review on outcome, recurrence and complication rates

PubMed Central

Komeda, Yoriaki; Bruno, Marco; Koch, Arjun

2014-01-01

Background and study aims In recent years, it has been reported that early Barrett’s and esophagogastric junction (EGJ) neoplasia can be effectively and safely treated using endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Multiband mucosectomy (MBM) appears to be the safest EMR method. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the safety and efficacy of MBM compared with ESD for the treatment of early neoplasia in Barrett’s or at the EGJ. Methods A literature review of studies published up to May 2013 on EMR and ESD for early Barrett’s esophagus (BE) neoplasia and adenocarcinoma at the EGJ was performed through MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library. Results on outcome parameters such as number of curative resections, complications and procedure times are compared and reported. Results A total of 16 studies met the inclusion criteria for analysis in this study. There were no significant differences in recurrence rates when comparing EMR (10/380, 2.6 %) to ESD (1/333, 0.7 %) (OR 8.55; 95 %CI, 0.91 – 80.0, P = 0.06). All recurrences after EMR were treated with additional endoscopic resection. The risks of delayed bleeding, perforation and stricture rates in both groups were similar. The procedure was considerably less time-consuming in the EMR group (mean time 36.7 min, 95 %CI, 34.5 – 38.9) than in the ESD group (mean time 83.3 min, 95 %CI, 57.4 – 109.2). Conclusions The MBM technique for EMR is as effective as ESD when comparing outcomes related to recurrence and complication rates for the treatment of early Barrett’s or EGJ neoplasia. The MBM technique is considerably less time-consuming. PMID:26135261

Theory of invasion extinction dynamics in minimal food webs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haerter, Jan O.; Mitarai, Namiko; Sneppen, Kim

2018-02-01

When food webs are exposed to species invasion, secondary extinction cascades may be set off. Although much work has gone into characterizing the structure of food webs, systematic predictions on their evolutionary dynamics are still scarce. Here we present a theoretical framework that predicts extinctions in terms of an alternating sequence of two basic processes: resource depletion by or competitive exclusion between consumers. We first propose a conceptual invasion extinction model (IEM) involving random fitness coefficients. We bolster this IEM by an analytical, recursive procedure for calculating idealized extinction cascades after any species addition and simulate the long-time evolution. Our procedure describes minimal food webs where each species interacts with only a single resource through the generalized Lotka-Volterra equations. For such food webs ex- tinction cascades are determined uniquely and the system always relaxes to a stable steady state. The dynamics and scale invariant species life time resemble the behavior of the IEM, and correctly predict an upper limit for trophic levels as observed in the field.

Theory of invasion extinction dynamics in minimal food webs.

PubMed

Haerter, Jan O; Mitarai, Namiko; Sneppen, Kim

2018-02-01

When food webs are exposed to species invasion, secondary extinction cascades may be set off. Although much work has gone into characterizing the structure of food webs, systematic predictions on their evolutionary dynamics are still scarce. Here we present a theoretical framework that predicts extinctions in terms of an alternating sequence of two basic processes: resource depletion by or competitive exclusion between consumers. We first propose a conceptual invasion extinction model (IEM) involving random fitness coefficients. We bolster this IEM by an analytical, recursive procedure for calculating idealized extinction cascades after any species addition and simulate the long-time evolution. Our procedure describes minimal food webs where each species interacts with only a single resource through the generalized Lotka-Volterra equations. For such food webs ex- tinction cascades are determined uniquely and the system always relaxes to a stable steady state. The dynamics and scale invariant species life time resemble the behavior of the IEM, and correctly predict an upper limit for trophic levels as observed in the field.

A solid phase extraction-ion chromatography with conductivity detection procedure for determining cationic surfactants in surface water samples.

PubMed

Olkowska, Ewa; Polkowska, Żaneta; Namieśnik, Jacek

2013-11-15

A new analytical procedure for the simultaneous determination of individual cationic surfactants (alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium chlorides) in surface water samples has been developed. We describe this methodology for the first time: it involves the application of solid phase extraction (SPE-for sample preparation) coupled with ion chromatography-conductivity detection (IC-CD-for the final determination). Mean recoveries of analytes between 79% and 93%, and overall method quantification limits in the range from 0.0018 to 0.038 μg/mL for surface water and CRM samples were achieved. The methodology was applied to the determination of individual alkyl benzyl quaternary ammonium compounds in environmental samples (reservoir water) and enables their presence in such types of waters to be confirmed. In addition, it is a simpler, less time-consuming, labour-intensive, avoiding use of toxic chloroform and significantly less expensive methodology than previously described approaches (liquid-liquid extraction coupled with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

U.S.-MEXICO BORDER PROGRAM ARIZONA BORDER STUDY--STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE FOR FOOD SAMPLE COMPARISON WITH DIARY AND SHIPMENT (UA-L-13.1)

EPA Science Inventory

The purpose of this SOP is to describe the procedures for checking the food collections with the food stated as consumed in the 24-Hour Food Diary. The sample is then packaged and shipped for further analysis. This procedure applies to the checking of food samples and shipment ...

NHEXAS PHASE I ARIZONA STUDY--STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE FOR FOOD SAMPLE COMPARISON WITH DIARY AND SHIPMENT (UA-L-13.1)

EPA Science Inventory

The purpose of this SOP is to describe the procedures for checking the food collections with the food stated as consumed in the 24-Hour Food Diary. The sample is then packaged and shipped to the FDA for further analysis. This procedure applies to the checking of food samples an...

12 CFR 1070.36 - Procedure in the event of an adverse ruling.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 9 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Procedure in the event of an adverse ruling. 1070.36 Section 1070.36 Banks and Banking BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION DISCLOSURE OF RECORDS... Procedure in the event of an adverse ruling. If a stay or, or other relief from, the effect of a demand made...

Optimization of a Viability PCR Method for the Detection of Listeria monocytogenes in Food Samples.

PubMed

Agustí, Gemma; Fittipaldi, Mariana; Codony, Francesc

2018-06-01

Rapid detection of Listeria and other microbial pathogens in food is an essential part of quality control and it is critical for ensuring the safety of consumers. Culture-based methods for detecting foodborne pathogens are time-consuming, laborious and cannot detect viable but non-culturable microorganism, whereas viability PCR methodology provides quick results; it is able to detect viable but non-culturable cells, and allows for easier handling of large amount of samples. Although the most critical point to use viability PCR technique is achieving the complete exclusion of dead cell amplification signals, many improvements are being introduced to overcome this. In the present work, the yield of dead cell DNA neutralization was enhanced by incorporating two new sample treatment strategies: tube change combined with a double light treatment. This procedure was successfully tested using artificially contaminated food samples, showing improved neutralization of dead cell DNA.

Consumer evaluation of food with nutritional benefits: a systematic review and narrative synthesis.

PubMed

Mogendi, Joseph Birundu; De Steur, Hans; Gellynck, Xavier; Makokha, Anselimo

2016-06-01

As a consequence of the growing interest in, and development of, various types of food with nutritional benefits, the modern consumer views their kitchen cabinet more and more as a medicine cabinet. Given that consumer evaluation of food is considered key to the successful production, marketing and finally consumption of food, a procedure commonly used in medical fields was employed to systematically review and summarize evidence of consumer evaluation studies on nutritious foods. The focus is primarily on consumer understanding of nutritious food and the underlying determinants of consumer evaluation. Our results highlight four groups of key determinants: (1) nutrition knowledge and information; (2) attitudes, beliefs, perceptions and behavioural determinants; (3) price, process and product characteristics; and (4) socio-demographics. The findings also point to the importance of understanding consumer acceptance as one many concepts in the consumer evaluation process, and provide support for developing appropriate strategies for improving health and well-being of consumers.

16 CFR 1501.5 - Enforcement procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Enforcement procedure. 1501.5 Section 1501.5 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION FEDERAL HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES ACT REGULATIONS METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING TOYS AND OTHER ARTICLES INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN UNDER 3 YEARS OF AGE WHICH...

47 CFR 14.35 - Procedure; designation of agents for service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Procedure; designation of agents for service. 14.35 Section 14.35 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL ACCESS TO ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES AND EQUIPMENT BY PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Recordkeeping, Consumer Dispute Assistance, and...

47 CFR 14.35 - Procedure; designation of agents for service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Procedure; designation of agents for service. 14.35 Section 14.35 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL ACCESS TO ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES AND EQUIPMENT BY PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Recordkeeping, Consumer Dispute Assistance, and...

47 CFR 14.35 - Procedure; designation of agents for service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Procedure; designation of agents for service. 14.35 Section 14.35 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL ACCESS TO ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES AND EQUIPMENT BY PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Recordkeeping, Consumer Dispute Assistance, and...

Optimization and quality control of genome-wide Hi-C library preparation.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiang-Yuan; He, Chao; Ye, Bing-Yu; Xie, De-Jian; Shi, Ming-Lei; Zhang, Yan; Shen, Wen-Long; Li, Ping; Zhao, Zhi-Hu

2017-09-20

Highest-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) is one of the key assays for genome- wide chromatin interaction studies. It is a time-consuming process that involves many steps and many different kinds of reagents, consumables, and equipments. At present, the reproducibility is unsatisfactory. By optimizing the key steps of the Hi-C experiment, such as crosslinking, pretreatment of digestion, inactivation of restriction enzyme, and in situ ligation etc., we established a robust Hi-C procedure and prepared two biological replicates of Hi-C libraries from the GM12878 cells. After preliminary quality control by Sanger sequencing, the two replicates were high-throughput sequenced. The bioinformatics analysis of the raw sequencing data revealed the mapping-ability and pair-mate rate of the raw data were around 90% and 72%, respectively. Additionally, after removal of self-circular ligations and dangling-end products, more than 96% of the valid pairs were reached. Genome-wide interactome profiling shows clear topological associated domains (TADs), which is consistent with previous reports. Further correlation analysis showed that the two biological replicates strongly correlate with each other in terms of both bin coverage and all bin pairs. All these results indicated that the optimized Hi-C procedure is robust and stable, which will be very helpful for the wide applications of the Hi-C assay.

Glenohumeral joint injection: a comparative study of ultrasound and fluoroscopically guided techniques before MR arthrography.

PubMed

Rutten, Matthieu J C M; Collins, James M P; Maresch, Bas J; Smeets, Jacques H J M; Janssen, Caroline M M; Kiemeney, Lambertus A L M; Jager, Gerrit J

2009-03-01

To assess the variability in accuracy of contrast media introduction, leakage, required time and patient discomfort in four different centres, each using a different image-guided glenohumeral injection technique. Each centre included 25 consecutive patients. The ultrasound-guided anterior (USa) and posterior approach (USp), fluoroscopic-guided anterior (FLa) and posterior (FLp) approach were used. Number of injection attempts, effect of contrast leakage on diagnostic quality, and total room, radiologist and procedure times were measured. Pain was documented with a visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score. Access to the joint was achieved in all patients. A successful first attempt significantly occurred more often with US (94%) than with fluoroscopic guidance (72%). Leakage of contrast medium did not cause interpretative difficulties. With US guidance mean room, procedure and radiologist times were significantly shorter (p < 0.001). The USa approach was rated with the lowest pre- and post-injection VAS scores. The four image-guided injection techniques are successful in injection of contrast material into the glenohumeral joint. US-guided injections and especially the anterior approach are significantly less time consuming, more successful on the first attempt, cause less patient discomfort and obviate the need for radiation and iodine contrast.

VI. Uterine fibroid embolization: developing a clinical service.

PubMed

Chrisman, Howard B; Smith, Steven J; Sterling, Keith M; Vogelzang, Robert; Bonn, Joseph; Andrews, Robert T; Worthington-Kirsch, Robert L; Goodwin, Scott C; Lipman, John C; Siskin, Gary P; Hovsepian, David M

2002-03-01

Building a uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) practice can be a complex process. Choices must be made regarding whether to align oneself with a gynecologist or to accept direct referrals. For the interventional radiologist, the responsibilities of evaluation and patient care pose unique and time-consuming administrative and clinical challenges. Physician extenders, either nurse practitioners or physician's assistants, play key roles as clinical coordinators by guiding the patient through the medical system and making certain that she is cleared for the procedure medically and logistically. In some settings, they may also assist in many of the technical aspects of the procedure and postoperative care. Interventional radiologists must be prepared for battles with insurance companies and be willing to go through the appeals process. Business officers must also be trained to properly code for the procedures to insure optimal reimbursement. The success of building a UFE practice may also be bolstered by directly marketing to patients and by providing them with access via the Internet. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.

[Application of virtual instrumentation technique in toxicological studies].

PubMed

Moczko, Jerzy A

2005-01-01

Research investigations require frequently direct connection of measuring equipment to the computer. Virtual instrumentation technique considerably facilitates programming of sophisticated acquisition-and-analysis procedures. In standard approach these two steps are performed subsequently with separate software tools. The acquired data are transfered with export / import procedures of particular program to the another one which executes next step of analysis. The described procedure is cumbersome, time consuming and may be potential source of the errors. In 1987 National Instruments Corporation introduced LabVIEW language based on the concept of graphical programming. Contrary to conventional textual languages it allows the researcher to concentrate on the resolved problem and omit all syntactical rules. Programs developed in LabVIEW are called as virtual instruments (VI) and are portable among different computer platforms as PCs, Macintoshes, Sun SPARCstations, Concurrent PowerMAX stations, HP PA/RISK workstations. This flexibility warrants that the programs prepared for one particular platform would be also appropriate to another one. In presented paper basic principles of connection of research equipment to computer systems were described.

Time required to initiate outbreak and pandemic observational research.

PubMed

Rishu, Asgar H; Marinoff, Nicole; Julien, Lisa; Dumitrascu, Mariana; Marten, Nicole; Eggertson, Shauna; Willems, Su; Ruddell, Stacy; Lane, Dan; Light, Bruce; Stelfox, Henry T; Jouvet, Philippe; Hall, Richard; Reynolds, Steven; Daneman, Nick; Fowler, Robert A

2017-08-01

Observational research focused upon emerging infectious diseases such as Ebola virus, Middle East respiratory syndrome, and Zika virus has been challenging to quickly initiate. We aimed to determine the duration of start-up procedures and barriers encountered for an observational study focused upon such infectious outbreaks. At 1 pediatric and 5 adult intensive care units, we measured durations from protocol receipt to a variety of outbreak research milestones, including research ethics board (REB) approval, data sharing agreement (DSA) execution, and patient study screening initiation. The median (interquartile range) time from site receipt of the protocol to REB submission was 73 (30-126) days; to REB approval, 158 (42-188) days; to DSA completion, 276 (186-312) days; and to study screening initiation, 293 (269-391) days. The median time from REB submission to REB approval was 43 (13-85) days. The median time for all start-up procedures was 335 (188-335) days. There is a lengthy start-up period required for outbreak-focused research. Completing DSAs was the most time-consuming step. A reactive approach to newly emerging threats such as Ebola virus, Middle East respiratory syndrome, and Zika virus will likely not allow sufficient time to initiate research before most outbreaks are advanced. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fast Deep Tracking via Semi-Online Domain Adaptation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiaoping; Luo, Wenbing; Zhu, Yi; Li, Hanxi; Wang, Mingwen

2018-04-01

Deep tracking has been illustrating overwhelming superiorities over the shallow methods. Unfortunately, it also suffers from low FPS rates. To alleviate the problem, a number of real-time deep trackers have been proposed via removing the online updating procedure on the CNN model. However, the absent of the online update leads to a significant drop on tracking accuracy. In this work, we propose to perform the domain adaptation for visual tracking in two stages for transferring the information from the visual tracking domain and the instance domain respectively. In this way, the proposed visual tracker achieves comparable tracking accuracy to the state-of-the-art trackers and runs at real-time speed on an average consuming GPU.

Automatic delineation of brain regions on MRI and PET images from the pig.

PubMed

Villadsen, Jonas; Hansen, Hanne D; Jørgensen, Louise M; Keller, Sune H; Andersen, Flemming L; Petersen, Ida N; Knudsen, Gitte M; Svarer, Claus

2018-01-15

The increasing use of the pig as a research model in neuroimaging requires standardized processing tools. For example, extraction of regional dynamic time series from brain PET images requires parcellation procedures that benefit from being automated. Manual inter-modality spatial normalization to a MRI atlas is operator-dependent, time-consuming, and can be inaccurate with lack of cortical radiotracer binding or skull uptake. A parcellated PET template that allows for automatic spatial normalization to PET images of any radiotracer. MRI and [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 PET scans obtained in sixteen pigs made the basis for the atlas. The high resolution MRI scans allowed for creation of an accurately averaged MRI template. By aligning the within-subject PET scans to their MRI counterparts, an averaged PET template was created in the same space. We developed an automatic procedure for spatial normalization of the averaged PET template to new PET images and hereby facilitated transfer of the atlas regional parcellation. Evaluation of the automatic spatial normalization procedure found the median voxel displacement to be 0.22±0.08mm using the MRI template with individual MRI images and 0.92±0.26mm using the PET template with individual [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 PET images. We tested the automatic procedure by assessing eleven PET radiotracers with different kinetics and spatial distributions by using perfusion-weighted images of early PET time frames. We here present an automatic procedure for accurate and reproducible spatial normalization and parcellation of pig PET images of any radiotracer with reasonable blood-brain barrier penetration. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

16 CFR 1501.4 - Size requirements and test procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Size requirements and test procedure. 1501.4 Section 1501.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION FEDERAL HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES ACT.... The metric approximations are included only for convenience.) (b)(1) Place the article, without...

16 CFR 260.4 - Review procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Commercial Practices FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION GUIDES AND TRADE PRACTICE RULES GUIDES FOR THE USE OF ENVIRONMENTAL MARKETING CLAIMS § 260.4 Review procedure. The Commission will review the guides as part of its... to alter or amend these guides in light of substantial new evidence regarding consumer interpretation...

16 CFR 1510.4 - Test procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Test procedure. 1510.4 Section 1510.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION FEDERAL HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES ACT REGULATIONS... plane surface. Under its own weight and in a non-compressed state apply any portion of the test sample...

16 CFR § 1702.2 - Procedural requirements and recommendations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Procedural requirements and recommendations. § 1702.2 Section § 1702.2 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT OF 1970 REGULATIONS PETITIONS FOR EXEMPTIONS FROM POISON PREVENTION PACKAGING ACT...

Computational benefits using artificial intelligent methodologies for the solution of an environmental design problem: saltwater intrusion.

PubMed

Papadopoulou, Maria P; Nikolos, Ioannis K; Karatzas, George P

2010-01-01

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) comprise a powerful tool to approximate the complicated behavior and response of physical systems allowing considerable reduction in computation time during time-consuming optimization runs. In this work, a Radial Basis Function Artificial Neural Network (RBFN) is combined with a Differential Evolution (DE) algorithm to solve a water resources management problem, using an optimization procedure. The objective of the optimization scheme is to cover the daily water demand on the coastal aquifer east of the city of Heraklion, Crete, without reducing the subsurface water quality due to seawater intrusion. The RBFN is utilized as an on-line surrogate model to approximate the behavior of the aquifer and to replace some of the costly evaluations of an accurate numerical simulation model which solves the subsurface water flow differential equations. The RBFN is used as a local approximation model in such a way as to maintain the robustness of the DE algorithm. The results of this procedure are compared to the corresponding results obtained by using the Simplex method and by using the DE procedure without the surrogate model. As it is demonstrated, the use of the surrogate model accelerates the convergence of the DE optimization procedure and additionally provides a better solution at the same number of exact evaluations, compared to the original DE algorithm.

Semi-automated image analysis: detecting carbonylation in subcellular regions of skeletal muscle

PubMed Central

Kostal, Vratislav; Levar, Kiara; Swift, Mark; Skillrud, Erik; Chapman, Mark; Thompson, LaDora V.

2011-01-01

The level of carbonylation in skeletal muscle is a marker of oxidative damage associated with disease and aging. While immunofluorescence microscopy is an elegant method to identify carbonylation sites in muscle cross-sections, imaging analysis is manual, tedious, and time consuming, especially when the goal is to characterize carbonyl contents in subcellular regions. In this paper, we present a semi-automated method for the analysis of carbonylation in subcellular regions of skeletal muscle cross-sections visualized with dual fluorescent immunohistochemistry. Carbonyls were visualized by their reaction with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) followed by immunolabeling with an Alexa488-tagged anti-DNP antibody. Mitochondria were probed with an anti-COXI primary antibody followed by the labeling with an Alexa568-tagged secondary antibody. After imaging, muscle fibers were individually analyzed using a custom-designed, lab-written, computer-aided procedure to measure carbonylation levels in subsarcolemmal and interfibrillar mitochondrial regions, and in the cytoplasmic and extracellular regions. Using this procedure, we were able to decrease the time necessary for the analysis of a single muscle fiber from 45 min to about 1 min. The procedure was tested by four independent analysts and found to be independent on inter-person and intra-person variations. This procedure will help increase highly needed throughput in muscle studies related to ageing, disease, physical performance, and inactivity that use carbonyl levels as markers of oxidative damage. PMID:21327623

78 FR 78305 - Energy and Water Use Labeling for Consumer Products Under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-26

... FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION 16 CFR Part 305 [3084-AB15] Energy and Water Use Labeling for Consumer Products Under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (``Energy Labeling Rule'') AGENCY: Federal Trade... to the Energy Labeling Rule (``Rule'') to require a new Department of Energy (DOE) test procedure for...

76 FR 13169 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver to...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-10

... Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver to Samsung Electronics America... Electronics America, Inc. (Samsung) a waiver from the DOE clothes washer test procedure for determining the.... Decision and Order In the Matter of: Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (Case No. CW- 014) I. Background and...

Integrating the Family and Consumer Sciences Body of Knowledge into Higher Education: Eight AAFCS-Accredited Universities Explain Their Process

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reiboldt, Wendy; Stanley, M. Sue; Coffey, Kitty R.; Whaley, Heather M.; Yazedjian, Ani; Yates, Amy M.; Kihm, Holly; Wanga, Pamela E.; Martin, Lynda; Olle, Mary; Anderson, Melinda

2016-01-01

This article features eight AAFCS-accredited academic units in higher education that illustrate how the Family and Consumer Sciences Body of Knowledge (FCS-BOK) can be integrated into program curricula and educational procedures or structures. Contributors represent the following educational institutions (in alphabetical order): (1) California…

Metrication of the United States Lumber Industry and Its Effects on Wood Consuming Industrial Education Courses.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Craemer, Peter J.

A study investigated the direction United States lumber industries are moving concerning the implementation of the metric system and what implications this has concerning wood consuming industrial education courses. The procedure included a literature review and investigating the major producers of softwood dimensional lumber by a detailed survey…

Meta-Analysis Research: A Potential Choice for CTE Researchers and Consumers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gordon, Howard R. D.

2007-01-01

A search of the ERIC database, Academic Search Premier, and a review of literature suggests that meta-analysis is ignored by career and technical education (CTE) researchers, a situation that is regrettable but remediable. The purpose of this paper was to provide CTE researchers and consumers with selected procedures and guidelines for conducting…

Health care encounters in Danish chiropractic practice from a consumer perspectives - a mixed methods investigation.

PubMed

Myburgh, Corrie; Boyle, Eleanor; Larsen, Johanne Brinch; Christensen, Henrik Wulff

2016-01-01

Perceived value is the key ingredient to carving and maintaining a competitive business niche. The opportunities to interact with consumers to understand and enhance perceived value are termed 'touch points'. Due to the out-of-pocket expense incurred by patients, Danish chiropractors are subject to consumer trends and behaviors. The purpose of this investigation was to explore and describe consumer touch points relevant to perceived value through healthcare journeys in chiropractic practices. We designed a convergent parallel, mixed methods study. Our purposive sampling framework identified 11 chiropractic clinics from which we collected observational field notes, video recordings and face-to-face interviews. Data was collected between April 14(th) and June 26(th) 2014. We described the exteriors and interiors of all participant clinics, interviewed 32 staff members, 12 new patients and 36 follow-up patients and finally video recorded 11 new and 24 follow-up consultations. Categorization and analysis led to the emergence six consumer touch point themes: 'the internet', 'the physical environment', 'practice models', 'administrative staff', 'the consultation sequence and timing' and 'a consultation that adds value'. The Internet functions as a tool when choosing/confirming a clinic as appropriate, developing and initial image and managing appointments. The administrative hub appears integral to the shaping of positive consumer experiences outside of the consultation. Clinic location, practice model and interior design may contribute to context effects and thus may influence value perception during the clinical encounter. The duration of hands-on treatment received from the chiropractor is not an apparent consumer focus point. Rather, through a seven stage clinical procedure patients value consultations with clinicians who demonstrate professional competence by effective communication diagnosis/management and facilitating satisfactory treatment outcomes. At least six consumer touch points add/detract from value-related experiences in chiropractic practices. The duration of hands-on treatment per se does not appear to be a particular focus point. More research is required to explore this issue.

An analysis of leading, lagging, and coincident economic indicators in the United States and its relationship to the volume of plastic surgery procedures performed: an update for 2012.

PubMed

Paik, Angie M; Hoppe, Ian C; Pastor, Craig J

2013-09-01

As physician compensation and reimbursement tightens throughout the United States, it is important for physicians to be aware of the influence that the economic environment has on the unique medical field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. This study will attempt to determine a relationship between the volume of different plastic surgical procedures and various economic indicators. Information from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' annual reports on plastic surgery statistics available on the Internet (http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Media/Statistics.html) was collected from the years 2000 through 2011. Yearly economic indicators were collected from readily available Web sites. In terms of the total number of plastic surgery procedures performed, there was a significant positive relationship with GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, consumer price index (CPI) (all), and CPI (medical), and a significant negative relationship with the issuance of new home permits. There was a significant positive relationship with total cosmetic procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical), and a significant negative relationship with the issuance of new home permits. There was a significant positive relationship between cosmetic surgical procedures and the issuance of new home permits and the average prime rate charged by banks. There was a significant positive relationship with cosmetic minimally invasive procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical), and a significant negative relationship with the issuance of new home permits. There was a significant negative relationship between reconstructive procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical). Cosmetic minimally invasive procedures involve less downtime, are generally less expensive than surgical options, and are widely available, making it easier for patients to decide on them quickly during good economic times. Furthermore, it is apparent that plastic surgeons must be proficient at performing minimally invasive cosmetic procedures to maintain a clientele and offer patients a more affordable option during tough economic times. This may lead to further business growth during more favorable economic times.

Peritoneal metastases of colorectal origin - cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The financial aspect.

PubMed

Jastrzębski, Tomasz; Bębenek, Marek

2017-12-30

The incidence of peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal cancer amounts to 5%-15% for synchronous metastases and as much as 40% in cases of local recurrence. Best results are obtained for cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). This treatment offers much better outcomes, leading to 5-year survival rates of as much as 30%-50%. The procedures require significant experience in abdominal surgery, are time-consuming (mean duration of the procedure ranging from 6 to 8 hours) and are burdened by complications that are due not only to the procedure itself but also to the intraperitoneal administration of the cytostatic drug at elevated temperature (41.5 °C). After the procedure, patients are required to be admitted to intensive care units due to potential complications associated with the extent and duration of the procedure as well as chemotherapy administered in hyperthermia. Postoperative management of these patients requires appropriate experience of the entire medical and nursing team. Cytoreductive surgeries combined with HIPEC as highly specialized medical procedures should be assessed for their potential long-term benefits and their costs should be appropriately calculated with consideration to realistic reimbursement rates. Realistic valuation and reimbursement covering the overall average cost of the procedure is recommended by the National Consultant in Surgical Oncology as well as the ESMO consensus guidelines.

A Prospective Comparison of Robotic and Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty

PubMed Central

Link, Richard E.; Bhayani, Sam B.; Kavoussi, Louis R.

2006-01-01

Objective: To determine whether robotic-assisted pyeloplasty (RLP) has any significant clinical or cost advantages over laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) for surgeons already facile with intracorporeal suturing. Summary Background Data: LP has become an established management approach for primary ureteropelvic junction obstruction. More recently, the da Vinci robot has been applied to this procedure (RLP) in an attempt to shorten the learning curve. Whether RLP provides any significant advantage over LP for the experienced laparoscopist remains unclear. Methods: Ten consecutive cases each of transperitoneal RLP and LP performed by a single surgeon were compared prospectively with respect to surgical times and perioperative outcomes. Cost assessment was performed by sensitivity analysis using a mathematical cost model incorporating operative time, anesthesia fees, consumables, and capital equipment depreciation. Results: The RLP and LP groups had statistically indistinguishable demographics, pathology, and similar perioperative outcomes. Mean operative and total room time for RLP was significantly longer than LP by 19.5 and 39.0 minutes, respectively. RLP was much more costly than LP (2.7 times), due to longer operative time, increased consumables costs, and depreciation of the costly da Vinci system. However, even if depreciation was eliminated, RLP was still 1.7 times as costly as LP. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that LP operative time must increase to almost 6.5 hours for it to become cost equivalent to RLP. Conclusions: For the experienced laparoscopist, application of the da Vinci robot resulted in no significant clinical advantage and added substantial cost to transperitoneal laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty. PMID:16552199

A prospective comparison of robotic and laparoscopic pyeloplasty.

PubMed

Link, Richard E; Bhayani, Sam B; Kavoussi, Louis R

2006-04-01

To determine whether robotic-assisted pyeloplasty (RLP) has any significant clinical or cost advantages over laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) for surgeons already facile with intracorporeal suturing. LP has become an established management approach for primary ureteropelvic junction obstruction. More recently, the da Vinci robot has been applied to this procedure (RLP) in an attempt to shorten the learning curve. Whether RLP provides any significant advantage over LP for the experienced laparoscopist remains unclear. Ten consecutive cases each of transperitoneal RLP and LP performed by a single surgeon were compared prospectively with respect to surgical times and perioperative outcomes. Cost assessment was performed by sensitivity analysis using a mathematical cost model incorporating operative time, anesthesia fees, consumables, and capital equipment depreciation. The RLP and LP groups had statistically indistinguishable demographics, pathology, and similar perioperative outcomes. Mean operative and total room time for RLP was significantly longer than LP by 19.5 and 39.0 minutes, respectively. RLP was much more costly than LP (2.7 times), due to longer operative time, increased consumables costs, and depreciation of the costly da Vinci system. However, even if depreciation was eliminated, RLP was still 1.7 times as costly as LP. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that LP operative time must increase to almost 6.5 hours for it to become cost equivalent to RLP. For the experienced laparoscopist, application of the da Vinci robot resulted in no significant clinical advantage and added substantial cost to transperitoneal laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty.

Development of automation software for neutron activation analysis process in Malaysian nuclear agency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yussup, N.; Rahman, N. A. A.; Ibrahim, M. M.; Mokhtar, M.; Salim, N. A. A.; Soh@Shaari, S. C.; Azman, A.

2017-01-01

Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) process has been established in Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuclear Malaysia) since 1980s. Most of the procedures established especially from sample registration to sample analysis are performed manually. These manual procedures carried out by the NAA laboratory personnel are time consuming and inefficient. Hence, a software to support the system automation is developed to provide an effective method to replace redundant manual data entries and produce faster sample analysis and calculation process. This paper describes the design and development of automation software for NAA process which consists of three sub-programs. The sub-programs are sample registration, hardware control and data acquisition; and sample analysis. The data flow and connection between the sub-programs will be explained. The software is developed by using National Instrument LabView development package.

An Efficient Method for Hair Containment During Head and Neck Surgery.

PubMed

Zingaretti, Nicola; De Biasio, Fabrizio; Riccio, Michele; Marchesi, Andrea; Parodi, Pier Camillo

2017-11-01

The authors present a simple technique for operations around hair-bearing areas such as during a rhytidectomy. Hair surrounding the surgical field is twisted into bundles and clipped with duckbill clips. The authors repeat the procedure for each strand of hair. Between 5 and 7 duckbill clips may be required per surgery.The clippers are faster, easily applicable, and well performing. They can be used with different hair lengths, and they do not require any additional trimming or shaving; clips also keep the hair firmly in place, and they do not loosen up in the process.This technical note explains a very simple, economical, and less time-consuming method to control hair located around the surgical site. It may be applied to all procedures within the field of the hair-bearing scalp, including craniofacial and maxillofacial surgery.

Minimally invasive video-assisted thyroid surgery: how can we improve the learning curve?

PubMed

Castagnola, G; Giulii Cappone, M; Tierno, S M; Mezzetti, G; Centanini, F; Vetrone, I; Bellotti, C

2012-10-01

Minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy (MIVAT) is a technically demanding procedure and requires a surgical team skilled in both endocrine and endoscopic surgery. A time consuming learning and training period is mandatory at the beginning of the experience. The aim of our report is to focus some aspects of the learning curve of the surgeon who practices video-assisted thyroid procedures for the first time, through the analysis of our preliminary series of 36 cases. From September 2004 to April 2005 we selected 36 patients for minimally invasive video-assisted surgery of the thyroid. The patients were considered eligible if they presented with a nodule not exceeding 35 mm in maximum diameter; total thyroid volume within normal range; absence of biochemical and echographic signs of thyroiditis. We analyzed surgical results, conversion rate, operating time, post-operative complications, hospital stay, cosmetic outcome of the series. We performed 36 total thyroidectomy. The procedure was successfully carried out in 33/36 cases. Post-operative complications included 3 transient recurrent nerve palsies and 2 transient hypocalcemias; no definitive hypoparathyroidism was registered. All patients were discharged 2 days after operation. The cosmetic result was considered excellent by most patients. Advances in skills and technology have enabled surgeons to reproduce most open surgical techniques with video-assistance or laparoscopically. Training is essential to acquire any new surgical technique and it should be organized in detail to exploit it completely.

16 CFR 1014.3 - Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records. 1014.3 Section 1014.3 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL... individual records. (a) Any individual may request the Commission to inform him or her whether a particular...

78 FR 20832 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-08

... ``leak significantly'' to mean the visible emergence of water from parts of the showerhead other than the... Procedures for Showerheads, Faucets, Water Closets, Urinals, and Commercial Prerinse Spray Valves AGENCY... notice of proposed rulemaking related to DOE test procedures for showerheads, faucets, water closets...

40 CFR 98.294 - Monitoring and QA/QC requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... scales or methods used for accounting purposes. (3) Document the procedures used to ensure the accuracy of the monthly measurements of trona consumed. (b) If you calculate CO2 process emissions based on... your facility, or methods used for accounting purposes. (3) Document the procedures used to ensure the...

78 FR 21215 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-10

... to amend the test procedures for residential dishwashers, dehumidifiers, and conventional cooking... procedures for residential dishwashers, dehumidifiers, and conventional cooking products, go to the Federal e..., dehumidifiers, and conventional cooking products (77 FR 65942, Oct. 31, 2012) and its direct final rule to amend...

77 FR 31742 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-30

.... Test Procedure for Commercial Prerinse Spray Valves 4. Design Requirements for Showerheads 5... procedures prescribed or amended under this section shall be reasonably designed to produce test results...] American Society for Testing and Materials [ASTM] Standard F2324, entitled `Standard Test Method for Pre...

Malpractice claims for endoscopy

PubMed Central

Hernandez, Lyndon V; Klyve, Dominic; Regenbogen, Scott E

2013-01-01

AIM: To summarize the magnitude and time trends of endoscopy-related claims and to compare total malpractice indemnity according to specialty and procedure. METHODS: We obtained data from a comprehensive database of closed claims from a trade association of professional liability insurance carriers, representing over 60% of practicing United States physicians. Total payments by procedure and year were calculated, and were adjusted for inflation (using the Consumer Price Index) to 2008 dollars. Time series analysis was performed to assess changes in the total value of claims for each type of procedure over time. RESULTS: There were 1901 endoscopy-related closed claims against all providers from 1985 to 2008. The specialties include: internal medicine (n = 766), gastroenterology (n = 562), general surgery (n = 231), general and family practice (n = 101), colorectal surgery (n = 87), other specialties (n = 132), and unknown (n = 22). Colonoscopy represented the highest frequencies of closed claims (n = 788) and the highest total indemnities ($54 093 000). In terms of mean claims payment, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ranked the highest ($374  794) per claim. Internists had the highest number of total claims (n = 766) and total claim payment ($70  730  101). Only total claim payments for colonoscopy and ERCP seem to have increased over time. Indeed, there was an average increase of 15.5% per year for colonoscopy and 21.9% per year for ERCP after adjusting for inflation. CONCLUSION: There appear to be differences in malpractice coverage costs among specialties and the type of endoscopic procedure. There is also evidence for secular trend in total claim payments, with colonoscopy and ERCP costs rising yearly even after adjusting for inflation. PMID:23596540

Application of hydrocyanic acid vapor generation via focused microwave radiation to the preparation of industrial effluent samples prior to free and total cyanide determinations by spectrophotometric flow injection analysis.

PubMed

Quaresma, Maria Cristina Baptista; de Carvalho, Maria de Fátima Batista; Meirelles, Francis Assis; Santiago, Vânia Maria Junqueira; Santelli, Ricardo Erthal

2007-02-01

A sample preparation procedure for the quantitative determination of free and total cyanides in industrial effluents has been developed that involves hydrocyanic acid vapor generation via focused microwave radiation. Hydrocyanic acid vapor was generated from free cyanides using only 5 min of irradiation time (90 W power) and a purge time of 5 min. The HCN generated was absorbed into an accepting NaOH solution using very simple glassware apparatus that was appropriate for the microwave oven cavity. After that, the cyanide concentration was determined within 90 s using a well-known spectrophotometric flow injection analysis system. Total cyanide analysis required 15 min irradiation time (90 W power), as well as chemical conditions such as the presence of EDTA-acetate buffer solution or ascorbic acid, depending on the effluent to be analyzed (petroleum refinery or electroplating effluents, respectively). The detection limit was 0.018 mg CN l(-1) (quantification limit of 0.05 mg CN l(-1)), and the measured RSD was better than 8% for ten independent analyses of effluent samples (1.4 mg l(-1) cyanide). The accuracy of the procedure was assessed via analyte spiking (with free and complex cyanides) and by performing an independent sample analysis based on the standard methodology recommended by the APHA for comparison. The sample preparation procedure takes only 10 min for free and 20 min for total cyanide, making this procedure much faster than traditional methodologies (conventional heating and distillation), which are time-consuming (they require at least 1 h). Samples from oil (sour and stripping tower bottom waters) and electroplating effluents were analyzed successfully.

[Cost analysis for navigation in knee endoprosthetics].

PubMed

Cerha, O; Kirschner, S; Günther, K-P; Lützner, J

2009-12-01

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the most frequent procedures in orthopaedic surgery. The outcome depends on a range of factors including alignment of the leg and the positioning of the implant in addition to patient-associated factors. Computer-assisted navigation systems can improve the restoration of a neutral leg alignment. This procedure has been established especially in Europe and North America. The additional expenses are not reimbursed in the German DRG system (Diagnosis Related Groups). In the present study a cost analysis of computer-assisted TKA compared to the conventional technique was performed. The acquisition expenses of various navigation systems (5 and 10 year depreciation), annual costs for maintenance and software updates as well as the accompanying costs per operation (consumables, additional operating time) were considered. The additional operating time was determined on the basis of a meta-analysis according to the current literature. Situations with 25, 50, 100, 200 and 500 computer-assisted TKAs per year were simulated. The amount of the incremental costs of the computer-assisted TKA depends mainly on the annual volume and the additional operating time. A relevant decrease of the incremental costs was detected between 50 and 100 procedures per year. In a model with 100 computer-assisted TKAs per year an additional operating time of 14 mins and a 10 year depreciation of the investment costs, the incremental expenses amount to 300-395 depending on the navigation system. Computer-assisted TKA is associated with additional costs. From an economical point of view an amount of more than 50 procedures per year appears to be favourable. The cost-effectiveness could be estimated if long-term results will show a reduction of revisions or a better clinical outcome.

A review of the nutritional needs of Meals on Wheels consumers and factors associated with the provision of an effective meals on wheels service-an Australian perspective.

PubMed

Krassie, J; Smart, C; Roberts, D C

2000-04-01

A review of the literature was undertaken to identify the nutritional needs of elderly MOW consumers and factors affecting the ability of existing programs to meet those needs. The focus was on the Australian experience but drawing on the world literature. Keyword search of English language based computer databases of the medical and health literature. Several studies suggest the nutritional intake of MOW consumers is below recommended levels, although the risk of nutritional deficiency has not always been identified. The literature indicates the effectiveness of Meals on Wheels programs are affected by a range of issues including the appropriateness of nutritional standards, menu selection, portion control, level of consumption and customer satisfaction. The literature recommends control of time and temperatures associated with food handling procedures, along with education of providers and customers, to assist in the provision of a safe food supply. Meals on Wheels is an important service, providing meals to housebound consumers. While the effectiveness of such programs is dependent on a range of variables, the nutritional impact of the service and the standard of food hygiene are fundamental assessment criteria. This work was supported by a grant from the NSW Meals on Wheels Association, Australia. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2000) 54, 275-280

Consumption of food away from home in Bangladesh: Do rich households spend more?

PubMed

Mottaleb, Khondoker A; Rahut, Dil Bahadur; Mishra, Ashok K

2017-12-01

While consumption of food away from home (FAFH) is an established phenomenon among households in the developed countries, FAFH is a growing phenomenon in many middle-income and rapidly growing developing countries. Although, studies are available on the factors affecting consumption of FAFH in developed countries, there is a paucity of such studies in developing countries. This study examines households' choice of and expenditures on FAFH. We used information from Bangladeshi households and applied a double-hurdle regression model estimation procedure. Findings show that, in general, rich households are spending proportionately less on FAFH and, over time, the trend is continuing. Although households with female members who work in the non-farm sector are more likely to consume FAFH, educated household heads and spouses, and particularly urban households are less likely to consume and spend on FAFH. As the problem of food adulteration by dishonest sellers is rampant in Bangladesh, perhaps it discourages rich, urban and households headed by educated heads and spouses to consume and spend more on FAFH. Based on the findings, some points of interventions are also prescribed in this study. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mineral composition of commonly consumed ethnic foods in Europe

PubMed Central

Khokhar, Santosh; Garduño-Diaz, Sara D.; Marletta, Luisa; Shahar, Danit R.; Ireland, Jane D.; Jansen-van der Vliet, Martine; de Henauw, Stefaan

2012-01-01

Background Ethnic foods are an integral part of food consumption in Europe contributing towards the overall nutrient intake of the population. Food composition data on these foods are crucial for assessing nutrient intake, providing dietary advice and preventing diseases. Objective To analyse selected minerals in authentic and modified ethnic foods commonly consumed in seven EU member states and Israel. Design A list of ethnic foods commonly consumed in selected European countries was generated, primary samples collected and composite sample prepared for each food, which were analysed for dietary minerals at accredited laboratories. Methods for sampling, analysis, data scrutiny and documentation were based on harmonised procedures. Results New data on 128 ethnic foods were generated for inclusion in the national databases of seven EU countries and Israel within the European Food Information Resource (EuroFIR), an EU Network of Excellence. The Na, K, Ca, P, Mg, Mn, Cl, Fe, Cu, Zn, Se and I contents of 39 foods is presented for the first time in this study. Conclusion The data will serve as an important tool in future national and international food consumption surveys, to target provision of dietary advice, facilitate implementation of policies and inform policymakers, health workers, food industry and researchers. PMID:22768018

Extending the Implicit Association Test (IAT): Assessing Consumer Attitudes Based on Multi-Dimensional Implicit Associations

PubMed Central

Gattol, Valentin; Sääksjärvi, Maria; Carbon, Claus-Christian

2011-01-01

Background The authors present a procedural extension of the popular Implicit Association Test (IAT; [1]) that allows for indirect measurement of attitudes on multiple dimensions (e.g., safe–unsafe; young–old; innovative–conventional, etc.) rather than on a single evaluative dimension only (e.g., good–bad). Methodology/Principal Findings In two within-subjects studies, attitudes toward three automobile brands were measured on six attribute dimensions. Emphasis was placed on evaluating the methodological appropriateness of the new procedure, providing strong evidence for its reliability, validity, and sensitivity. Conclusions/Significance This new procedure yields detailed information on the multifaceted nature of brand associations that can add up to a more abstract overall attitude. Just as the IAT, its multi-dimensional extension/application (dubbed md-IAT) is suited for reliably measuring attitudes consumers may not be consciously aware of, able to express, or willing to share with the researcher [2], [3]. PMID:21246037

Identifying the Intersection of Alcohol, Adherence and Sex in HIV Positive Men on ART Treatment in India Using an Adapted Timeline Followback Procedure.

PubMed

Schensul, Jean J; Ha, Toan; Schensul, Stephen; Sarna, Avina; Bryant, Kendall

2017-11-01

People living with HIV (PLHIV) on anti-retroviral treatment (ART) who drink are less adherent and more likely to engage in unprotected sex but the connections among these events are correlational. Using an adapted Timeline Follow-Back (A-TLFB) procedure, this paper examines the day by day interface of alcohol, medication adherence and sex to provide a fine grained understanding of how multiple behavioral risks coincide in time and space, explores concordance/discordance of measures with survey data and identifies potential recall bias. Data are drawn from a survey of behavior, knowledge and attitudes, and a 30 day TLFB assessment of multiple risk behaviors adapted for the Indian PLHIV context, administered to 940 alcohol-consuming, HIV positive men on ART at the baseline evaluation stage of a multilevel, multi-centric intervention study. On days participants drank they were significantly more likely to be medication non-adherent and to have unprotected sex. In the first day after their alcohol consuming day, the pattern of nonadherence persisted. Binge and regular drinking days were associated with nonadherence but only binge drinking co-occurred with unprotected sex. Asking about specific "drinking days" improved recall for drinking days and number of drinks consumed. Recall declined for both drinking days and nonadherence from the first week to subsequent weeks but varied randomly for sex risk. There was high concordance and low discordance between A-TLFB drinking and nonadherence but these results were reversed for unprotected sex. Moving beyond simple drinking-adherence correlational analysis, the A-TLFB offers improved recall probes and provides researchers and interventionists with the opportunity to identify types of risky days and tailor behavioral modification to reduce alcohol consumption, nonadherence and risky sex on those days.

76 FR 31749 - Energy Conservation Program for Certain Consumer Appliances: Test Procedures for Battery Chargers...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-01

.... 6 at p. 1; AHAM, No. 10 at p. 8) Delta-Q cautioned ``against some overlap with any solar industry... electrical grid and the battery of many consumer photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy systems, as well as rapid... for residential PV systems that employ these higher output voltage devices. (ASAP, No. 11 at p. 2; PG...

Consumer-driven health plans: latest challenge to practices' cash flow.

PubMed

Hajny, Tom

2007-01-01

CDHPs are here to stay. Employers welcome CDHPs because they drive costs away from themselves and into the hands of both consumers and provides. The consumer will make medical purchase decisions tempered by personal economic considerations. The providers are left to figure it all out with the hope their cash flow, cost budgets, and customer service will not be negatively impacted. It will not be easy. Practices must become educated on how CDHPs work, become knowledgeable about specific HSA scenarios in their market, develop optimum processes and procedures, and train staff.

Concurrent myotomy and tunneling after establishment of a half tunnel instead of myotomy after establishment of a full tunnel: a more efficient method of peroral endoscopic myotomy.

PubMed

Philips, George M; Dacha, Sunil; Keilin, Steve A; Willingham, Field F; Cai, Qiang

2016-04-01

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a time-consuming and challenging procedure. Traditionally, the myotomy is done after the submucosal tunnel has been completed. Starting the myotomy earlier, after submucosal tunneling is half completed (concurrent myotomy and tunneling), may be more efficient. This study aims to assess if the method of concurrent myotomy and tunneling may decrease the procedural time and be efficacious. This is a retrospective case series of patients who underwent modified POEM (concurrent myotomy and tunneling) or traditional POEM at a tertiary care medical center. Modified POEM or traditional POEM was performed at the discretion of the endoscopist in patients presenting with achalasia. The total procedural duration, myotomy duration, myotomy length, and time per unit length of myotomy were recorded for both modified and traditional POEM. Modified POEM was performed in 6 patients whose mean age (± standard deviation [SD]) was 58 ± 13.3 years. Of these, 5 patients had type II achalasia and 1 patient had esophageal dysmotility. The mean Eckardt score (± SD) before the procedure was 8.8 ± 1.3. The modified technique was performed in 47 ± 8 minutes, with 6 ± 1 minutes required per centimeter of myotomy and 3 ± 1 minutes required per centimeter of submucosal space. The Eckardt score was 3 ± 1.1 at 1 month and 3 ± 2.5 at 3 months. The procedure time for modified POEM was significantly shorter than that for traditional POEM. Modified POEM with short submucosal tunneling may be more efficient than traditional POEM with long submucosal tunneling, and outcomes may be equivalent over short-term follow-up. Long-term data and randomized controlled studies are needed to compare the clinical efficacy of modified POEM with that of the traditional method.

Development of ceramic-coated weld backing bars

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

Eggleston, B.R.

1994-10-20

In shipbuilding and many other industries, copper weld backing bars are used to draw the heat out of the weld. The problem that some users of these bars encounter is that these bars, on occasion, actually melt in spots and become welded to the weld plates. After this happens a number of times, the backing bar becomes so degraded that it must be either discarded or machined, both of which are very costly and time-consuming actions. To avoid this fusion between the backing bar and the weld plate, the weld processes that are used cannot be ones of high beatmore » input. This requirement is very limiting when thick plates are being welded. The plates must be beveled, and more weld passes must be run. These problems are also costly and time consuming. The aim of this project is to find a way to produce backing bars with nearly the same `chilling` effect but with both a greater resistance to molten metal and resistance to arcing to the backing bar itself. A possible solution currently being tested is to coat the copper bars with a thin layer of a ceramic coating. The procedure used was to coat the copper bars with either alumina or spinel by a plasma spraying method.« less

Self-organized neural maps of human protein sequences.

PubMed Central

Ferrán, E. A.; Pflugfelder, B.; Ferrara, P.

1994-01-01

We have recently described a method based on artificial neural networks to cluster protein sequences into families. The network was trained with Kohonen's unsupervised learning algorithm using, as inputs, the matrix patterns derived from the dipeptide composition of the proteins. We present here a large-scale application of that method to classify the 1,758 human protein sequences stored in the SwissProt database (release 19.0), whose lengths are greater than 50 amino acids. In the final 2-dimensional topologically ordered map of 15 x 15 neurons, proteins belonging to known families were associated with the same neuron or with neighboring ones. Also, as an attempt to reduce the time-consuming learning procedure, we compared 2 learning protocols: one of 500 epochs (100 SUN CPU-hours [CPU-h]), and another one of 30 epochs (6.7 CPU-h). A further reduction of learning-computing time, by a factor of about 3.3, with similar protein clustering results, was achieved using a matrix of 11 x 11 components to represent the sequences. Although network training is time consuming, the classification of a new protein in the final ordered map is very fast (14.6 CPU-seconds). We also show a comparison between the artificial neural network approach and conventional methods of biosequence analysis. PMID:8019421

Effects of delay and probability combinations on discounting in humans.

PubMed

Cox, David J; Dallery, Jesse

2016-10-01

To determine discount rates, researchers typically adjust the amount of an immediate or certain option relative to a delayed or uncertain option. Because this adjusting amount method can be relatively time consuming, researchers have developed more efficient procedures. One such procedure is a 5-trial adjusting delay procedure, which measures the delay at which an amount of money loses half of its value (e.g., $1000 is valued at $500 with a 10-year delay to its receipt). Experiment 1 (n=212) used 5-trial adjusting delay or probability tasks to measure delay discounting of losses, probabilistic gains, and probabilistic losses. Experiment 2 (n=98) assessed combined probabilistic and delayed alternatives. In both experiments, we compared results from 5-trial adjusting delay or probability tasks to traditional adjusting amount procedures. Results suggest both procedures produced similar rates of probability and delay discounting in six out of seven comparisons. A magnitude effect consistent with previous research was observed for probabilistic gains and losses, but not for delayed losses. Results also suggest that delay and probability interact to determine the value of money. Five-trial methods may allow researchers to assess discounting more efficiently as well as study more complex choice scenarios. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

From Physician to Consumer: The Effectiveness of Strategies to Manage Health Care Utilization

PubMed Central

Flynn, Kathryn E.; Smith, Maureen A.; Davis, Margaret K.

2006-01-01

Many strategies are commonly used to influence physician behavior in managed care organizations. This review examines the effectiveness of three mechanisms to influence physician behavior: financial incentives directed at providers or patients, policies/procedures for managing care, and the selection/education of both providers and patients. We reach three conclusions. First, all health care systems use financial incentives, but these mechanisms are shifting away from financial incentives directed at the physician to those directed at the consumer. Second, heavily procedural strategies such as utilization review and gatekeeping show some evidence of effectiveness but are highly unpopular due to their restrictions on physician and patient choice. Third, a future system built on consumer choice is contradicted by mechanisms that rely solely on narrow networks of providers or the education of physicians. If patients become the new locus of decision-making in health care, provider-focused mechanisms to influence physician behavior will not disappear but are likely to decline in importance. PMID:12508705

Rapid virus detection procedure for molecular tracing of shellfish associated with disease outbreaks.

PubMed

de Roda Husman, Ana Maria; Lodder-Verschoor, Froukje; van den Berg, Harold H J L; Le Guyader, Françoise S; van Pelt, Hilde; van der Poel, Wim H M; Rutjes, Saskia A

2007-04-01

Detection of pathogenic viruses in oysters implicated in gastroenteritis outbreaks is often hampered by time-consuming, specialist virus extraction methods. Five virus RNA extraction methods were evaluated with respect to performance characteristics and sensitivity on artificially contaminated oyster digestive glands. The two most promising procedures were further evaluated on bioaccumulated and naturally contaminated oysters. The most efficient method was used to trace the source in an outbreak situation. Out of five RNA extraction protocols, PEG precipitation and the RNeasy Kit performed best with norovirus genogroup III-spiked digestive glands. Analyzing 24-h bioaccumulated oysters revealed a slightly better sensitivity with PEG precipitation, but the RNeasy Kit was less prone to concentrate inhibitors. The latter procedure demonstrated the presence of human noroviruses in naturally contaminated oysters and oysters implicated in an outbreak. In this outbreak, in four out of nine individually analyzed digestive glands, norovirus was detected. In one of the oysters and in one of the fecal samples of the clinical cases, identical norovirus strains were detected. A standard and rapid virus extraction method using the RNeasy Kit appeared to be most useful in tracing shellfish as the source in gastroenteritis outbreaks, and to be able to make effective and timely risk management decisions.

Robotics in colorectal surgery.

PubMed

Kariv, Y; Delaney, C P

2005-10-01

A minimally invasive approach has not yet become the gold standard in colorectal procedures, despite its proven advantages in postoperative recovery. This is in part the result of the technical limitations in today's standard laparoscopy, and the advanced surgical skills that are required. Robotic technology overcomes some of these limitations by successfully providing intuitive motion and enhanced precision and accuracy, in an environment that is much more ergonomic. While currently performed in only few designated centers, this technology has already been applied in almost every major procedure performed to treat both benign and malignant conditions of the large bowel. The feasibility of performing these procedures using robotic systems has been reported in several series. Conversion and complication rates are low, and short term results are comparable to conventional laparoscopy. However, no clear advantages to patients have been demonstrated yet. Furthermore, robotic technology is associated with a significant increase in time consumed during surgery and cost of care. Nevertheless, a great potential for patients benefit in the future may exist with this technology. Increasing clinical experience with these systems, further technological developments, and continuous research are required before robotic technology can be routinely incorporated into surgical procedures on the colon and rectum.

Quantitation of polymethoxylated flavones in orange juice by high-performance liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Rouseff, R L; Ting, S V

1979-08-01

A quantitative high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) procedure for the determination of the five major polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) in orange juice has been developed. It employs a unique ternary solvent system with coupled UV-fluorescence detection. The dual detectors were employed to determine the presence of interfering substances and served as a cross check on quantitation. Stop flow UV and fluorescence scanning was used to identify peaks and determine the presence of impurities. Although all five citrus PMFs fluoresce, some HPLC fluorescence peaks were too small to be of much practical use. All five citrus PMFs could be quantitated satisfactorily with the fixed wavelength UV (313 nm) detector. The HPLC procedure has been used to evaluate each step in the preparation. The optimum extracting solvent was selected and one time consuming step was eliminated, as it was found to be unnecessary. HPLC values for nobiletin and sinensetin are in good agreement with the thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) values in the literature. HPLC values for the other three flavones were considerably lower than those reported in the literature. The HPLC procedure is considerably faster than the TLC procedure with equal or superior precision and accuracy.

Digital cross-mounting: A new opportunity in prosthetic dentistry.

PubMed

Venezia, Pietro; Torsello, Ferruccio; D'Amato, Salvatore; Cavalcanti, Raffaele

2017-01-01

The prosthodontic management of complex rehabilitations requires several stages of treatment including one or more provisional restorations. The design and adjustments of the provisional are made to achieve an optimal functional and esthetic outcome for the patient. However, the adjustments needed are both time and cost consuming. Therefore, once a satisfactory provisional is made, the information should not be lost during the following stages of treatment. The purpose of this clinical case is to illustrate "digital cross-mounting," a procedure used to precisely transfer information from the provisional to the final fixed rehabilitation in a digital workflow.

Influence of the contact roughness upon railway monobloc wheel acoustic behaviour on virtual prototyping approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todorov, George; Kamberov, Konstantin; Kralov, Ivan; Ignatov, Ignat

2017-12-01

In this study the virtual prototyping is used for evaluation the influence of the contact roughness upon the acoustic behaviour evaluation of railway monobloc wheel. The proposed procedure covers requirements of the European Standard EN 13979-1 "Wheels and bogies - Monobloc wheels". The main advantage of the acoustic assessment based on the virtual engineering technics - absence of the expensive and time consuming physical tests, is sown. The real industrial-project example is presented and comparison of the numerical and experimental results is used for acoustic behaviour assessment and approval of railway monobloc wheel design.

Automated and miniaturized detection of biological threats with a centrifugal microfluidic system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mark, D.; van Oordt, T.; Strohmeier, O.; Roth, G.; Drexler, J.; Eberhard, M.; Niedrig, M.; Patel, P.; Zgaga-Griesz, A.; Bessler, W.; Weidmann, M.; Hufert, F.; Zengerle, R.; von Stetten, F.

2012-06-01

The world's growing mobility, mass tourism, and the threat of terrorism increase the risk of the fast spread of infectious microorganisms and toxins. Today's procedures for pathogen detection involve complex stationary devices, and are often too time consuming for a rapid and effective response. Therefore a robust and mobile diagnostic system is required. We present a microstructured LabDisk which performs complex biochemical analyses together with a mobile centrifugal microfluidic device which processes the LabDisk. This portable system will allow fully automated and rapid detection of biological threats at the point-of-need.

FOCIS: A forest classification and inventory system using LANDSAT and digital terrain data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strahler, A. H.; Franklin, J.; Woodcook, C. E.; Logan, T. L.

1981-01-01

Accurate, cost-effective stratification of forest vegetation and timber inventory is the primary goal of a Forest Classification and Inventory System (FOCIS). Conventional timber stratification using photointerpretation can be time-consuming, costly, and inconsistent from analyst to analyst. FOCIS was designed to overcome these problems by using machine processing techniques to extract and process tonal, textural, and terrain information from registered LANDSAT multispectral and digital terrain data. Comparison of samples from timber strata identified by conventional procedures showed that both have about the same potential to reduce the variance of timber volume estimates over simple random sampling.

75 FR 76968 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver to the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-10

... III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) sets forth a variety of provisions designed to... procedures that are reasonably designed to produce results that measure energy efficiency, energy use, or... more design characteristics that prevent testing according to the prescribed test procedure, or (2...

16 CFR § 1014.3 - Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Procedures for requests pertaining to individual records. § 1014.3 Section § 1014.3 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION... pertaining to individual records. (a) Any individual may request the Commission to inform him or her whether...

78 FR 7681 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures for Residential Furnaces and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-04

.... Description of AFUE Inflation Issues Associated with Omitting Cool-Down and Heat-Up Testing for Two-Stage and... to revise a provision concerning the insulation of the flue collector box in order to ensure the... furnaces and boilers that employ the optional procedure to skip [[Page 7683

17 CFR 248.30 - Procedures to safeguard customer records and information; disposal of consumer report information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Procedures to safeguard... and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (CONTINUED) REGULATIONS S-P AND S-AM... administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for the protection of customer records and information. These...

17 CFR 248.30 - Procedures to safeguard customer records and information; disposal of consumer report information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 4 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Procedures to safeguard... and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (CONTINUED) REGULATIONS S-P, S-AM, AND S... administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for the protection of customer records and information. These...

17 CFR 248.30 - Procedures to safeguard customer records and information; disposal of consumer report information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Procedures to safeguard... and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (CONTINUED) REGULATIONS S-P AND S-AM... administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for the protection of customer records and information. These...

17 CFR 248.30 - Procedures to safeguard customer records and information; disposal of consumer report information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Procedures to safeguard... and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (CONTINUED) REGULATIONS S-P AND S-AM... administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for the protection of customer records and information. These...

17 CFR 248.30 - Procedures to safeguard customer records and information; disposal of consumer report information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Procedures to safeguard... and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (CONTINUED) REGULATIONS S-P AND S-AM... administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for the protection of customer records and information. These...

76 FR 19902 - Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Decision and Order Granting 180-Day Extension...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-11

... for Residential Furnaces and Boilers Test Procedure Amendments; Correction AGENCY: Office of Energy..., 2011), a 180-day extension of the compliance date for recent amendments to the DOE test procedure for... DOE received this petition well after February 17, 2011, the Department believes a number of factors...

Real Time Intraoperative Monitoring of Blood Loss with a Novel Tablet Application.

PubMed

Sharareh, Behnam; Woolwine, Spencer; Satish, Siddarth; Abraham, Peter; Schwarzkopf, Ran

2015-01-01

Real-time monitoring of blood loss is critical in fluid management. Visual estimation remains the standard of care in estimating blood loss, yet is demonstrably inaccurate. Photometric analysis, which is the referenced "gold-standard" for measuring blood loss, is both time-consuming and costly. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a novel tablet-monitoring device for measurement of Hb loss during orthopaedic procedures. This is a prospective study of 50 patients in a consecutive series of joint arthroplasty cases. The novel System with Feature Extraction Technology was used to measure the amount of Hb contained within surgical sponges intra-operatively. The system's measures were then compared with those obtained via gravimetric method and photometric analysis. Accuracy was evaluated using linear regression and Bland-Altman analysis. Our results showed a significant positive correlation between Triton tablet system and photometric analysis with respect to intra-operative hemoglobin and blood loss at 0.92 and 0.91, respectively. This novel system can accurately determine Hb loss contained within surgical sponges. We believe that this user-friendly software can be used for measurement of total intraoperative blood loss and thus aid in a more accurate fluid management protocols during orthopaedic surgical procedures.

A simple and rapid microplate assay for glycoprotein-processing glycosidases

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

Kang, M.S.; Zwolshen, J.H.; Harry, B.S.

1989-08-15

A simple and convenient microplate assay for glycosidases involved in the glycoprotein-processing reactions is described. The assay is based on specific binding of high-mannose-type oligosaccharide substrates to concanavalin A-Sepharose, while monosaccharides liberated by enzymatic hydrolysis do not bind to concanavalin A-Sepharose. By the use of radiolabeled substrates (( 3H)glucose for glucosidases and (3H)mannose for mannosidases), the radioactivity in the liberated monosaccharides can be determined as a measure of the enzymatic activity. This principle was employed earlier for developing assays for glycosidases previously reported. These authors have reported the separation of substrate from the product by concanavalin A-Sepharose column chromatography. Thismore » procedure is handicapped by the fact that it cannot be used for a large number of samples and is time consuming. We have simplified this procedure and adapted it to the use of a microplate (96-well plate). This would help in processing a large number of samples in a short time. In this report we show that the assay is comparable to the column assay previously reported. It is linear with time and enzyme concentration and shows expected kinetics with castanospermine, a known inhibitor of alpha-glucosidase I.« less

Novel method for the high-throughput processing of slides for the comet assay

PubMed Central

Karbaschi, Mahsa; Cooke, Marcus S.

2014-01-01

Single cell gel electrophoresis (the comet assay), continues to gain popularity as a means of assessing DNA damage. However, the assay's low sample throughput and laborious sample workup procedure are limiting factors to its application. “Scoring”, or individually determining DNA damage levels in 50 cells per treatment, is time-consuming, but with the advent of high-throughput scoring, the limitation is now the ability to process significant numbers of comet slides. We have developed a novel method by which multiple slides may be manipulated, and undergo electrophoresis, in batches of 25 rather than individually and, importantly, retains the use of standard microscope comet slides, which are the assay convention. This decreases assay time by 60%, and benefits from an electrophoresis tank with a substantially smaller footprint, and more uniform orientation of gels during electrophoresis. Our high-throughput variant of the comet assay greatly increases the number of samples analysed, decreases assay time, number of individual slide manipulations, reagent requirements and risk of damage to slides. The compact nature of the electrophoresis tank is of particular benefit to laboratories where bench space is at a premium. This novel approach is a significant advance on the current comet assay procedure. PMID:25425241

Novel method for the high-throughput processing of slides for the comet assay.

PubMed

Karbaschi, Mahsa; Cooke, Marcus S

2014-11-26

Single cell gel electrophoresis (the comet assay), continues to gain popularity as a means of assessing DNA damage. However, the assay's low sample throughput and laborious sample workup procedure are limiting factors to its application. "Scoring", or individually determining DNA damage levels in 50 cells per treatment, is time-consuming, but with the advent of high-throughput scoring, the limitation is now the ability to process significant numbers of comet slides. We have developed a novel method by which multiple slides may be manipulated, and undergo electrophoresis, in batches of 25 rather than individually and, importantly, retains the use of standard microscope comet slides, which are the assay convention. This decreases assay time by 60%, and benefits from an electrophoresis tank with a substantially smaller footprint, and more uniform orientation of gels during electrophoresis. Our high-throughput variant of the comet assay greatly increases the number of samples analysed, decreases assay time, number of individual slide manipulations, reagent requirements and risk of damage to slides. The compact nature of the electrophoresis tank is of particular benefit to laboratories where bench space is at a premium. This novel approach is a significant advance on the current comet assay procedure.

Usefulness of Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest and Regional Cerebral Perfusion in Children

PubMed Central

Guo, Zheng; Hu, Ren-Jie; Zhu, De-Ming; Zhu, Zhong-Qun; Zhang, Hai-Bo

2013-01-01

To compare the safety and usefulness of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) and regional cerebral perfusion (RCP) during pediatric open heart surgery. Between January 1, 2004 and September 30, 2012, 1250 children with congenital cardiac defect underwent corrective operation with the DHCA or RCP technique in the Shanghai Children's Medical Center. Of them, 947 cases underwent the operation with the aid of DHCA (DHCA group), and 303 cases with RCP (RCP group). The mean DHCA time was 30.64±15.81 (7–63) minutes and mean RCP time was 36.18±12.86 (10–82) minutes. The mortality rate was 7.18% (68/947) and 6.60% (20/30) in two groups, respectively. The postoperative incidences of temporary and permanent neurological dysfunction were 6.23% (59/947) in the DHCA group and 2.64% (8/303) in the RCP group (p<0.01). The incidence of other complications such as low cardiac output, renal dysfunction, and lung issues are similar in both groups. RCP is a reliable technique for cerebral protection and it facilitates time-consuming corrected procedures for complex congenital cardiac defect repair procedures. PMID:24066266

Computerized optimization of multiple isocentres in stereotactic convergent beam irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Treuer, U.; Treuer, H.; Hoevels, M.; Müller, R. P.; Sturm, V.

1998-01-01

A method for the fully computerized determination and optimization of positions of target points and collimator sizes in convergent beam irradiation is presented. In conventional interactive trial and error methods, which are very time consuming, the treatment parameters are chosen according to the operator's experience and improved successively. This time is reduced significantly by the use of a computerized procedure. After the definition of target volume and organs at risk in the CT or MR scans, an initial configuration is created automatically. In the next step the target point positions and collimator diameters are optimized by the program. The aim of the optimization is to find a configuration for which a prescribed dose at the target surface is approximated as close as possible. At the same time dose peaks inside the target volume are minimized and organs at risk and tissue surrounding the target are spared. To enhance the speed of the optimization a fast method for approximate dose calculation in convergent beam irradiation is used. A possible application of the method for calculating the leaf positions when irradiating with a micromultileaf collimator is briefly discussed. The success of the procedure has been demonstrated for several clinical cases with up to six target points.

Australian mental health consumers contributions to the evaluation and improvement of recovery-oriented service provision.

PubMed

Marshal, Sarah L; Oades, Lindsay G; Growe, Trevor P

2010-01-01

One key component of recovery-oriented mental health services, typically overlooked, involves genuine collaboration between researchers and consumers to evaluate and improve services delivered within a recovery framework. Eighteen mental health consumers working with staff who had received training in the Collaborative Recovery Model (CRM) took part in in-depth focus group meetings, of approximately 2.5 hours each, to generate feedback to guide improvement of the CRM and its use in mental health services. Consumers identified clear avenues for improvement for the CRM both specific to the model and broadly applicable to recovery-oriented service provision. Findings suggest consumers want to be more engaged and empowered in the use of the CRM from the outset. Improved sampling procedures may have led to the identification of additional dissatisfied consumers. Collaboration with mental health consumers in the evaluation and improvement of recovery-oriented practice is crucial with an emphasis on rebuilding mental health services that are genuinely oriented to support recovery.

7 CFR 1220.216 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SOYBEAN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Soybean Promotion and Research Order Soybean Program Coordinating Committee § 1220.216...

7 CFR 1220.216 - Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SOYBEAN PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION Soybean Promotion and Research Order Soybean Program Coordinating Committee § 1220.216...

Consumer Perception of Inpatient Medical Services.

PubMed

Izugami, Satoko; Takase, Kozo

2016-01-01

Although it is currently popular to reflect consumers' perspectives to medical service management, insufficient attempts have been made to understand detailed perception of the consumer side of medical services to promote medical services' evaluation from the consumer viewpoint. The aim of this study was to descriptively reveal how consumers perceive medical services that they receive, focusing on inpatient medical services. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 adults who experienced hospitalization of five or more days. Constant comparative analysis was performed on the obtained descriptive data. We identified 1) medical procedures, 2) explanations from medical professionals, 3) behavior of medical service providers, 4) somatic sensations, and 5) self-perceived physical conditions as target factors that medical service consumers perceived during hospitalization. The response to the perceived target factors, "compared with the expectation that the consumer had before the hospitalization," suggests that it is an important medical service consumer reaction to check if the service met their expectations for perceived factors. The response to the medical services perception targets suggested that medical service consumers are involved in medical services and interested in various perception targets. The expectations that medical service consumers have prior to hospitalization can largely influence inpatient medical services evaluation.

UV irradiation and autoclave treatment for elimination of contaminating DNA from laboratory consumables.

PubMed

Gefrides, Lisa A; Powell, Mark C; Donley, Michael A; Kahn, Roger

2010-02-01

Laboratories employ various approaches to ensure that their consumables are free of DNA contamination. They may purchase pre-treated consumables, perform quality control checks prior to casework, and use in-house profile databases for contamination detection. It is better to prevent contamination prior to DNA typing than identify it after samples are processed. To this end, laboratories may UV irradiate or autoclave consumables prior to use but treatment procedures are typically based on killing microorganisms and not on the elimination of DNA. We report a systematic study of UV and autoclave treatments on the persistence of DNA from saliva. This study was undertaken to determine the best decontamination strategy for the removal of DNA from laboratory consumables. We have identified autoclave and UV irradiation procedures that can eliminate nanogram quantities of contaminating DNA contained within cellular material. Autoclaving is more effective than UV irradiation because it can eliminate short fragments of contaminating DNA more effectively. Lengthy autoclave or UV irradiation treatments are required. Depending on bulb power, a UV crosslinker may take a minimum of 2h to achieve an effective dose for elimination of nanogram quantities of contaminating DNA (>7250mJ/cm(2)). Similarly autoclaving may also take 2h to eliminate similar quantities of contaminating DNA. For this study, we used dried saliva stains to determine the effective dose. Dried saliva stains were chosen because purified DNA as well as fresh saliva are less difficult to eradicate than dried stains and also because consumable contamination is more likely to be in the form of a collection of dry cells.

Costing imaging procedures.

PubMed

Bretland, P M

1988-01-01

The existing National Health Service financial system makes comprehensive costing of any service very difficult. A method of costing using modern commercial methods has been devised, classifying costs into variable, semi-variable and fixed and using the principle of overhead absorption for expenditure not readily allocated to individual procedures. It proved possible to establish a cost spectrum over the financial year 1984-85. The cheapest examinations were plain radiographs outside normal working hours, followed by plain radiographs, ultrasound, special procedures, fluoroscopy, nuclear medicine, angiography and angiographic interventional procedures in normal working hours. This differs from some published figures, particularly those in the Körner report. There was some overlap between fluoroscopic interventional and the cheaper nuclear medicine procedures, and between some of the more expensive nuclear medicine procedures and the cheaper angiographic ones. Only angiographic and the few more expensive nuclear medicine procedures exceed the cost of the inpatient day. The total cost of the imaging service to the district was about 4% of total hospital expenditure. It is shown that where more procedures are undertaken, the semi-variable and fixed (including capital) elements of the cost decrease (and vice versa) so that careful study is required to assess the value of proposed economies. The method is initially time-consuming and requires a computer system with 512 Kb of memory, but once the basic costing system is established in a department, detailed financial monitoring should become practicable. The necessity for a standard comprehensive costing procedure of this nature, based on sound cost accounting principles, appears inescapable, particularly in view of its potential application to management budgeting.

Equity, Economics and Educational Need: Some Tensions between Consumer and Producer Interests in the Management of Secondary School Admission Procedures in Thanet, UK

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Welsh, Paul J.

2004-01-01

This paper analyses the process of secondary school admission in the District of Thanet in the contexts of consumerism and the functioning of the educational marketplace. It examines tensions between consumers and producers, and juxtaposes educational need with individual gain, arguing that the Local Education Authority's policies, the plethora of…

Trend of telomerase activity change during human iPSC self-renewal and differentiation revealed by a quartz crystal microbalance based assay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yitian; Zhou, Ping; Xin, Yinqiang; Wang, Jie; Zhu, Zhiqiang; Hu, Ji; Wei, Shicheng; Ma, Hongwei

2014-11-01

Telomerase plays an important role in governing the life span of cells for its capacity to extend telomeres. As high activity of telomerase has been found in stem cells and cancer cells specifically, various methods have been developed for the evaluation of telomerase activity. To overcome the time-consuming procedures and complicated manipulations of existing methods, we developed a novel method named Telomeric Repeat Elongation Assay based on Quartz crystal microbalance (TREAQ) to monitor telomerase activity during the self-renewal and differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). TREAQ results indicated hiPSCs possess invariable telomerase activity for 11 passages on Matrigel and a steady decline of telomerase activity when differentiated for different periods, which is confirmed with existing golden standard method. The pluripotency of hiPSCs during differentiation could be estimated through monitoring telomerase activity and compared with the expression levels of markers of pluripotency gene via quantitative real time PCR. Regular assessment for factors associated with pluripotency or stemness was expensive and requires excessive sample consuming, thus TREAQ could be a promising alternative technology for routine monitoring of telomerase activity and estimate the pluripotency of stem cells.

7 CFR 1209.304 - Subagents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.304 - Subagents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.304 - Subagents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.305 - Ballots.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.304 - Subagents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.305 - Ballots.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.305 - Ballots.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.305 - Ballots.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.304 - Subagents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

7 CFR 1209.305 - Ballots.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... AND ORDERS; MISCELLANEOUS COMMODITIES), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE MUSHROOM PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER Procedure for the Conduct of Referenda in Connection With the Mushroom Promotion...

Developing clinical practice guidelines: target audiences, identifying topics for guidelines, guideline group composition and functioning and conflicts of interest

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Clinical practice guidelines are one of the foundations of efforts to improve health care. In 1999, we authored a paper about methods to develop guidelines. Since it was published, the methods of guideline development have progressed both in terms of methods and necessary procedures and the context for guideline development has changed with the emergence of guideline clearing houses and large scale guideline production organisations (such as the UK National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence). It therefore seems timely to, in a series of three articles, update and extend our earlier paper. In this first paper we discuss: the target audience(s) for guidelines and their use of guidelines; identifying topics for guidelines; guideline group composition (including consumer involvement) and the processes by which guideline groups function and the important procedural issue of managing conflicts of interest in guideline development. PMID:22762776