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Task Force (task + force)
Kinds of Task Force Terms modified by Task Force Selected AbstractsThe 5/95 gap in the indexation of psychiatric journals of low- and middle-income countriesACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2010J. J. Mari Mari JJ, Patel V, Kieling C, Razzouk D, Tyrer P, Herrman H. The 5/95 gap in the indexation of psychiatric journals of low- and middle-income countries. Objective:, To investigate the relationship between science production and the indexation level of low- and middle-income countries (LAMIC) journals in international databases. Method:, Indicators of productivity in research were based on the number of articles produced over the 1994,2004 period. A survey in both Medline and ISI/Thomson was conducted to identify journals according to their country of origin. A WPA Task Force designed a collaborative process to assess distribution and quality of non-indexed LAMIC journals. Results:, Twenty LAMIC were found to present more than 100 publications and a total of 222 indexed psychiatric journals were found, but only nine were from LAMIC. The Task Force received 26 questionnaires from editors of non-indexed journals, and concluded that five journals would meet criteria for indexation. Conclusion:, Barriers to indexation of journals contribute to the difficulties in achieving fair representation in the main literature databases for the scientific production in these countries. [source] Prevention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders,DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES RESEARCH REVIEW, Issue 3 2009R. Louise Floyd Abstract Alcohol use among women of childbearing age is a leading, preventable cause of birth defects and developmental disabilities in the United States. Although most women reduce their alcohol use upon pregnancy recognition, some women report drinking during pregnancy and others may continue to drink prior to realizing they are pregnant. These findings emphasize the need for effective prevention strategies for both pregnant and nonpregnant women who might be at risk for an alcohol-exposed pregnancy (AEP). This report reviews evidence supporting alcohol screening and brief intervention as an effective approach to reducing problem drinking and AEPs that can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. In addition, this article highlights a recent report of the National Task Force on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effect that describes effective interventions to reduce alcohol use and AEPs, and outlines recommendations on promoting and improving these strategies. Utilizing evidence-based alcohol screening tools and brief counseling for women at risk for an AEP and other effective population-based strategies can help achieve future alcohol-free pregnancies. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2009;15:193,199. [source] AIChE offers technological insights to the public policy debate on global climate changeENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, Issue 3 2000David E. Gushee Global climate change has been a major issue on the national political agenda since 1988. Several Committees on Capitol Hill conducted hearings concerning the heat waves then searing the nation. Testimony by several well-regarded scientists at those hearings that "we ain't seen nothing yet" led to impressive headlines in the national media. Since then, unusually high temperatures, a succession of forecasts of serious negative impacts from the projected continued warming, and well-publicized Congressional hearings led to the creation of the United Nation's Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) and its Kyoto Protocol. As a result, climate change is on just about every technology organization's agenda. In 1996, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers joined the list of organizations formally responding to the issue. The Government Relations Committee (GRC) formed a Task Force on Climate Change, made up of Institute members active in a number of aspects of the issue area. The charge to the Task Force: Look for opportunities for the Institute to contribute to the public policy debate on the issue and frame position papers accordingly. The first major conclusion of the Task Force was that AIChE is not in a position to state whether or not global climate change is a real public policy problem. However, to the extent that the public policy process treats climate change as an issue, the Institute is well positioned to comment on the technical merits of proposed policy responses. The Task Force recommended this posture to the GRC, which agreed. [source] Review of the validation of models used in Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act Environmental exposure assessmentsENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 8 2002Russell L. Jmones Abstract The first activity of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) Environmental Model Validation Task Force, established to increase confidence in the use of environmental models used in regulatory assessments, was to review the literature information on validation of the pesticide root zone model (PRZM) and the groundwater loading effects of agricultural management systems (GLEAMS). This literature information indicates that these models generally predict the same or greater leaching than observed in actual field measurements, suggesting that these models are suitable for use in regulatory assessments. However, additional validation research conducted using the newest versions of the models would help improve confidence in runoff and leaching predictions because significant revisions have been made in models over the years, few of the literature studies focused on runoff losses, the number of studies having quantitative validation results is minimal, and modelers were aware of the field results in most of the literature studies. Areas for special consideration in conducting model validation research include improving the process for selecting input parameters, developing recommendations for performing calibration simulations, devising appropriate procedures for keeping results of field studies from modelers performing simulations to validate model predictions while providing access for calibration simulations, and developing quantitative statistical procedures for comparing model predictions with experimental results. [source] Report of the ILAE Classification Core GroupEPILEPSIA, Issue 9 2006Jerome Engel Jr Chair Summary:, A Core Group of the Task Force on Classification and Terminology has evaluated the lists of epileptic seizure types and epilepsy syndromes approved by the General Assembly in Buenos Aires in 2001, and considered possible alternative systems of classification. No new classification has as yet been proposed. Because the 1981 classification of epileptic seizure types, and the 1989 classification of epilepsy syndromes and epilepsies are generally accepted and workable, they will not be discarded unless, and until, clearly better classifications have been devised, although periodic modifications to the current classifications may be suggested. At this time, however, the Core Group has focused on establishing scientifically rigorous criteria for identification of specific epileptic seizure types and specific epilepsy syndromes as unique diagnostic entities, and is considering an evidence-based approach. The short-term goal is to present a list of seizure types and syndromes to the ILAE Executive Committee for approval as testable working hypotheses, subject to verification, falsification, and revision. This report represents completion of this work. If sufficient evidence subsequently becomes available to disprove any hypothesis, the seizure type or syndrome will be reevaluated and revised or discarded, with Executive Committee approval. The recognition of specific seizure types and syndromes, as well as any change in classification of seizure types and syndromes, therefore, will continue to be an ongoing dynamic process. A major purpose of this approach is to identify research necessary to clarify remaining issues of uncertainty, and to pave the way for new classifications. [source] Glossary of Descriptive Terminology for Ictal Semiology: Report of the ILAE Task Force on Classification and TerminologyEPILEPSIA, Issue 9 2001Warren T. Blume First page of article [source] A Proposed Diagnostic Scheme for People with Epileptic Seizures and with Epilepsy: Report of the ILAE Task Force on Classification and TerminologyEPILEPSIA, Issue 6 2001Jerome Engel Jr. First page of article [source] Quality assurance and benchmarking: an approach for European dental schoolsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION, Issue 3 2007M. L. Jones Abstract:, This document was written by Task Force 3 of DentEd III, which is a European Union funded Thematic Network working under the auspices of the Association for Dental Education in Europe (ADEE). It provides a guide to assist in the harmonisation of Dental Education Quality Assurance (QA) systems across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). There is reference to the work, thus far, of DentEd, DentEd Evolves, DentEd III and the ADEE as they strive to assist the convergence of standards in dental education; obviously QA and benchmarking has an important part to play in the European HE response to the Bologna Process. Definitions of Quality, Quality Assurance, Quality Management and Quality Improvement are given and put into the context of dental education. The possible process and framework for Quality Assurance are outlined and some basic guidelines/recommendations suggested. It is recognised that Quality Assurance in Dental Schools has to co-exist as part of established Quality Assurance systems within faculties and universities, and that Schools also may have to comply with existing local or national systems. Perhaps of greatest importance are the 14 ,requirements' for the Quality Assurance of Dental Education in Europe. These, together with the document and its appendices, were unanimously supported by the ADEE at its General Assembly in 2006. As there must be more than one road to achieve a convergence or harmonisation standard, a number of appendices are made available on the ADEE website. These provide a series of ,toolkits' from which schools can ,pick and choose' to assist them in developing QA systems appropriate to their own environment. Validated contributions and examples continue to be most welcome from all members of the European dental community for inclusion at this website. It is realised that not all schools will be able to achieve all of these requirements immediately, by definition, successful harmonisation is a process that will take time. At the end of the DentEd III project, ADEE will continue to support the progress of all schools in Europe towards these aims. [source] AAN-EFNS guidelines on trigeminal neuralgia managementEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 10 2008G. Cruccu Several issues regarding diagnosis, pharmacological treatment, and surgical treatment of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) are still unsettled. The American Academy of Neurology and the European Federation of Neurological Societies launched a joint Task Force to prepare general guidelines for the management of this condition. After systematic review of the literature the Task Force came to a series of evidence-based recommendations. In patients with TN MRI may be considered to identify patients with structural causes. The presence of trigeminal sensory deficits, bilateral involvement, and abnormal trigeminal reflexes should be considered useful to disclose symptomatic TN, whereas younger age of onset, involvement of the first division, unresponsiveness to treatment and abnormal trigeminal evoked potentials are not useful in distinguishing symptomatic from classic TN. Carbamazepine (stronger evidence) or oxcarbazepine (better tolerability) should be offered as first-line treatment for pain control. For patients with TN refractory to medical therapy early surgical therapy may be considered. Gasserian ganglion percutaneous techniques, gamma knife and microvascular decompression may be considered. Microvascular decompression may be considered over other surgical techniques to provide the longest duration of pain freedom. The role of surgery versus pharmacotherapy in the management of TN in patients with multiple sclerosis remains uncertain. [source] EFNS guidelines on neurostimulation therapy for neuropathic painEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 9 2007G. Cruccu Pharmacological relief of neuropathic pain is often insufficient. Electrical neurostimulation is efficacious in chronic neuropathic pain and other neurological diseases. European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) launched a Task Force to evaluate the evidence for these techniques and to produce relevant recommendations. We searched the literature from 1968 to 2006, looking for neurostimulation in neuropathic pain conditions, and classified the trials according to the EFNS scheme of evidence for therapeutic interventions. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is efficacious in failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) type I (level B recommendation). High-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may be better than placebo (level C) although worse than electro-acupuncture (level B). One kind of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has transient efficacy in central and peripheral neuropathic pains (level B). Motor cortex stimulation (MCS) is efficacious in central post-stroke and facial pain (level C). Deep brain stimulation (DBS) should only be performed in experienced centres. Evidence for implanted peripheral stimulations is inadequate. TENS and r-TMS are non-invasive and suitable as preliminary or add-on therapies. Further controlled trials are warranted for SCS in conditions other than failed back surgery syndrome and CRPS and for MCS and DBS in general. These chronically implanted techniques provide satisfactory pain relief in many patients, including those resistant to medication or other means. [source] EFNS guidelines on pharmacological treatment of neuropathic painEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 11 2006N. Attal Neuropathic pain treatment remains unsatisfactory despite a substantial increase in the number of trials. This EFNS Task Force aimed at evaluating the existing evidence about the pharmacological treatment of neuropathic pain. Studies were identified using first the Cochrane Database then Medline. Trials were classified according to the aetiological condition. All class I and II controlled trials (according to EFNS classification of evidence) were assessed, but lower-class studies were considered in conditions that had no top level studies. Only treatments feasible in an outpatient setting were evaluated. Effects on pain symptoms/signs, quality of life and comorbidities were particularly searched for. Most of the randomized controlled trials included patients with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and painful polyneuropathies (PPN) mainly caused by diabetes. These trials provide level A evidence for the efficacy of tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentin, pregabalin and opioids, with a large number of class I trials, followed by topical lidocaine (in PHN) and the newer antidepressants venlafaxine and duloxetine (in PPN). A small number of controlled trials were performed in central pain, trigeminal neuralgia, other peripheral neuropathic pain states and multiple-aetiology neuropathic pains. The main peripheral pain conditions respond similarly well to tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentin, and pregabalin, but some conditions, such as HIV-associated polyneuropathy, are more refractory. There are too few studies on central pain, combination therapy, and head-to-head comparison. For future trials, we recommend to assess quality of life and pain symptoms or signs with standardized tools. [source] A systematic review on the diagnosis and treatment of primary (idiopathic) dystonia and dystonia plus syndromes: report of an EFNS/MDS-ES Task ForceEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 5 2006A. Albanese chairman To review the literature on primary dystonia and dystonia plus and to provide evidence-based recommendations. Primary dystonia and dystonia plus are chronic and often disabling conditions with a widespread spectrum mainly in young people. Computerized MEDLINE and EMBASE literature reviews (1966,1967 February 2005) were conducted. The Cochrane Library was searched for relevant citations. Diagnosis and classification of dystonia are highly relevant for providing appropriate management and prognostic information, and genetic counselling. Expert observation is suggested. DYT-1 gene testing in conjunction with genetic counselling is recommended for patients with primary dystonia with onset before age 30 years and in those with an affected relative with early onset. Positive genetic testing for dystonia (e.g. DYT-1) is not sufficient to make diagnosis of dystonia. Individuals with myoclonus should be tested for the epsilon-sarcoglycan gene (DYT-11). A levodopa trial is warranted in every patient with early onset dystonia without an alternative diagnosis. Brain imaging is not routinely required when there is a confident diagnosis of primary dystonia in adult patients, whereas it is necessary in the paediatric population. Botulinum toxin (BoNT) type A (or type B if there is resistance to type A) can be regarded as first line treatment for primary cranial (excluding oromandibular) or cervical dystonia and can be effective in writing dystonia. Actual evidence is lacking on direct comparison of the clinical efficacy and safety of BoNT-A vs. BoNT-B. Pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) is considered a good option, particularly for generalized or cervical dystonia, after medication or BoNT have failed to provide adequate improvement. Selective peripheral denervation is a safe procedure that is indicated exclusively in cervical dystonia. Intrathecal baclofen can be indicated in patients where secondary dystonia is combined with spasticity. The absolute and comparative efficacy and tolerability of drugs in dystonia, including anticholinergic and antidopaminergic drugs, is poorly documented and no evidence-based recommendations can be made to guide prescribing. [source] EFNS guidelines on management of neurological problems in liver transplantationEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 1 2006M. Guarino Neurological impairment after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is common and represents a major source of morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis and management of neurological problems occurring after OLT are difficult and evidence-based guidelines for this task are currently lacking. A Task Force was set up under the auspices of the European Federation of Neurological Societies to devise guidelines to prevent and manage neurological problems in OLT. We selected six major neurological problems and approached them combining an evidence-based scientific literature analysis with a search of consensus by means of a Delphi process. Search results were translated into a series of recommendations constituting a basis for better care of patients with neurological complications after OLT. [source] Guidelines on use of anti-IFN- , antibody measurements in multiple sclerosis: report of an EFNS Task Force on IFN- , antibodies in multiple sclerosisEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 11 2005P. S. Sørensen Therapy-induced binding and neutralizing antibodies is a major problem in interferon (IFN)- , treatment of multiple sclerosis. The objective of this study was to provide guidelines outlining the methods and clinical use of the measurements of binding and neutralizing antibodies. Systematic search of the Medline database for available publications on binding and neutralizing antibodies was undertaken. Appropriate publications were reviewed by one or more of the task force members. Grading of evidence and recommendations was based on consensus by all task force members. Measurements of binding antibodies are recommended for IFN- , antibody screening before performing a neutralizing antibody (NAB) assay (Level A recommendation). Measurement of NABs should be performed in specialized laboratories with a validated cytopathic effect assay or MxA production assay using serial dilution of the test sera. The NAB titre should be calculated using the Kawade formula (Level A recommendation). Tests for the presence of NABs should be performed in all patients at 12 and 24 months of therapy (Level A recommendation). In patients who remain NAB-negative during this period measurements of NABs can be discontinued (Level B recommendation). In patient with NABs, measurements should be repeated, and therapy with IFN- , should be discontinued in patients with high titres of NABs sustained at repeated measurements with 3- to 6-month intervals (Level A recommendation). [source] EFNS guidelines on cognitive rehabilitation: report of an EFNS task forceEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 9 2005Members of the Task Force on Cognitive Rehabilitation Disorders of language, spatial perception, attention, memory, calculation and praxis are a frequent consequence of acquired brain damage [in particular, stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI)] and a major determinant of disability. The rehabilitation of aphasia and, more recently, of other cognitive disorders is an important area of neurological rehabilitation. We report here a review of the available evidence about effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation. Given the limited number and generally low quality of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in this area of therapeutic intervention, the Task Force considered, besides the available Cochrane reviews, evidence of lower classes which was critically analysed until a consensus was reached. In particular, we considered evidence from small group or single cases studies including an appropriate statistical evaluation of effect sizes. The general conclusion is that there is evidence to award a grade A, B or C recommendation to some forms of cognitive rehabilitation in patients with neuropsychological deficits in the post-acute stage after a focal brain lesion (stroke, TBI). These include aphasia therapy, rehabilitation of unilateral spatial neglect (ULN), attentional training in the post-acute stage after TBI, the use of electronic memory aids in memory disorders, and the treatment of apraxia with compensatory strategies. There is clearly a need for adequately designed studies in this area, which should take into account specific problems such as patient heterogeneity and treatment standardization. [source] Teaching of neuroepidemiology in Europe: time for actionEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 12 2004V. Feigin Many epidemiological and clinical studies in Europe, especially in Eastern Europe and countries in transition, are of poor methodological quality because of lack of background knowledge in clinical epidemiology methods and study designs. The only way to improve the quality of epidemiological studies is to provide adequate undergraduate and/or postgraduate education for the health professionals and allied health professions. To facilitate this process, the European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) Task Force on teaching of clinical epidemiology in Europe was set up in October 2000. Based on analyses of the current teaching and research activities in neuroepidemiology in Europe, this paper describes the Task Force recommendations aimed to improve these activities. [source] Neurophysiological tests and neuroimaging procedures in non-acute headache: guidelines and recommendationsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 4 2004G. Sandrini The use of instrumental examinations in headache patients varies widely. In order to evaluate their usefulness, the most common instrumental procedures were evaluated, on the basis of evidence from the literature, by an EFNS Task Force (TF) on neurophysiological tests and imaging procedures in non-acute headache patients. The conclusions of the TF regarding each technique are expressed in the following guidelines for clinical use. 1Interictal electroencephalography (EEG) is not routinely indicated in the diagnostic evaluation of headache patients. Interictal EEG is, however, indicated if the clinical history suggests a possible diagnosis of epilepsy (differential diagnosis). Ictal EEG could be useful in certain patients suffering from hemiplegic and basilar migraine. 2Recording of evoked potentials is not recommended for the diagnosis of headache disorders. 3There is no evidence to justify the recommendation of autonomic tests for the routine clinical examination of headache patients. 4Manual palpation of pericranial muscles, with standardized palpation pressure, can be recommended for subdividing patient groups but not for diagnosis. Pressure algometry and electromyography (EMG) cannot be recommended as clinical diagnostic tests. 5In adult and paediatric patients with migraine, with no recent change in attack pattern, no history of seizures, and no other focal neurological signs or symptoms, the routine use of neuroimaging is not warranted. In patients with atypical headache patterns, a history of seizures and/or focal neurological signs or symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be indicated. 6If attacks can be fully accounted for by the standard headache classification [International Headache Society (IHS)], a positron emission tomography (PET) or single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) and scan will generally be of no further diagnostic value. 7Nuclear medicine examinations of the cerebral circulation and metabolism can be carried out in subgroups of headache patients for diagnosis and evaluation of complications, when patients experience unusually severe attacks, or when the quality or severity of attacks has changed. 8Transcranial Doppler examination is not helpful in headache diagnosis. Although many of the examinations described are of little or no value in the clinical setting, most of the tools have a vast potential for further exploring the pathophysiology of headaches and the effects of pharmacological treatment. [source] Preventive medicine beyond 65GERIATRICS & GERONTOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 2 2006Lionel S. Lim Preventive health care in adults aged 65 and older is essential to ensure that quality of life is maintained with longevity. The first half of this article will focus on the two major causes of mortality in the US adult population: cancer and cardiovascular disease. We will address current screening and chemoprevention issues pertaining to breast, cervical, colorectal, prostate and skin cancer. For cardiovascular disease prevention, we will discuss the importance of screening for and treating hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and the use of aspirin chemoprophylaxis and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition. In the latter half, we will discuss other aspects of preventive health care including fall prevention, motor vehicle safety, immunizations and screening issues. Health screening can help detect conditions like osteoporosis, subclinical thyroid disease, hearing impairment, nutritional status, and oral and dental problems. Finally, we will also address psychosocial health issues that affect older people including dementia, depression, elder abuse, lifestyle habits and advanced directives. Our recommendations are based on the latest available evidence and include the US Preventive Services Task Force and other leading health professional organizations. [source] Barriers and strategies affecting the utilisation of primary preventive services for people with physical disabilities: a qualitative inquiryHEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY, Issue 4 2006Thilo Kroll PhD Abstract Individuals with physical disabilities are less likely to utilise primary preventive healthcare services than the general population. At the same time they are at greater risk for secondary conditions and as likely as the general population to engage in health risk behaviours. This qualitative exploratory study had two principal objectives: (1) to investigate access barriers to obtaining preventive healthcare services for adults with physical disabilities and (2) to identify strategies to increase access to these services. We conducted five focus group interviews with adults (median age: 46) with various physically disabling conditions. Most participants were male Caucasians residing in Virginia, USA. Study participants reported a variety of barriers that prevented them from receiving the primary preventive services commonly recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force. We used a health services framework to distinguish structural,environmental (to include inaccessible facilities and examination equipment) or process barriers (to include a lack of disability-related provider knowledge, respect, and skilled assistance during office visits). Participants suggested a range of strategies to address these barriers including disability-specific continuing education for providers, the development of accessible prevention-focused information portals for people with physical disabilities, and consumer self-education, and assertiveness in requesting recommended services. Study findings point to the need for a more responsive healthcare system to effectively meet the primary prevention needs of people with physical disabilities. The authors propose the development of a consumer- and provider-focused resource and information kit that reflects the strategies that were suggested by study participants. [source] The New Accountancy Foundation: A Credible Form of Regulation for UK Listed Company Audit?INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AUDITING, Issue 3 2002Ian P Dewing This paper considers the new system of regulation of the accountancy profession in the UK, based on the Accountancy Foundation. It explores how the system compares with: principles of regulation produced by the Better Regulation Task Force and National Consumer Council; stakeholder perceptions on the nature of an independent regulatory body for UK listed company audit; new and emerging developments arising from the review of competition in professions by the Office of Fair Trading; recommendations of the Company Law Review Steering Group and establishment of the Financial Services Authority; and, events set in train in the UK as a result of the collapse of Enron in the US. The paper concludes it is ironic that the new system, enthusiastically endorsed so recently by government, should be called into question so fundamentally, and so rapidly, by events outside its jurisdiction. [source] Experience with Delay-Tolerant Networking from orbit,INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS AND NETWORKING, Issue 5-6 2010W. Ivancic Abstract We describe the first use from space of the Bundle Protocol for Delay-Tolerant Networking (DTN) and lessons learned from experiments made and experience gained with this protocol. The Disaster Monitoring Constellation (DMC), constructed by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL), is a multiple-satellite Earth-imaging low-Earth-orbit sensor network in which recorded image swaths are stored onboard each satellite and later downloaded from the satellite payloads to a ground station. Store-and-forward of images with capture and later download gives each satellite the characteristics of a node in a disruption-tolerant network. Originally developed for the ,Interplanetary Internet,' DTNs are now under investigation in an Internet Research Task Force (IRTF) DTN research group (RG), which has developed a ,bundle' architecture and protocol. The DMC is technically advanced in its adoption of the Internet Protocol (IP) for its imaging payloads and for satellite command and control, based around reuse of commercial networking and link protocols. These satellites' use of IP has enabled earlier experiments with the Cisco router in Low Earth Orbit (CLEO) onboard the constellation's UK-DMC satellite. Earth images are downloaded from the satellites using a custom IP-based high-speed transfer protocol developed by SSTL, Saratoga, which tolerates unusual link environments. Saratoga has been documented in the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) for wider adoption. We experiment with the use of DTNRG bundle concepts onboard the UK-DMC satellite, by examining how Saratoga can be used as a DTN ,convergence layer' to carry the DTNRG Bundle Protocol, so that sensor images can be delivered to ground stations and beyond as bundles. Our practical experience with the first successful use of the DTNRG Bundle Protocol in a space environment gives us insights into the design of the Bundle Protocol and enables us to identify issues that must be addressed before wider deployment of the Bundle Protocol. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] The task force on advanced satellite mobile systems: structure, objectives and vision,INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS AND NETWORKING, Issue 5 2004Giovanni E. Corazza Abstract This paper describes the origins of the Advanced Satellite Mobile Systems Task Force (ASMS-TF), its structure and its membership. The paper also discusses the overall vision of the Task Force for the short and for the long term, and the objectives which the Task Force is pursuing. What the Task Force has achieved so far in its existence is listed, together with its future plans and priorities. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Interview with a Quality Leader: Paul Gluck, Immediate Past Chair, National Patient Safety FoundationJOURNAL FOR HEALTHCARE QUALITY, Issue 5 2009Pamela K. Scarrow Interviewer Abstract: Dr. Paul Gluck, MD, FACOG, has held many leadership positions. He served as the president/chair of the William A. Little OB/GYN Society, the Miami OB/GYN Society, the Florida OB/GYN Society, the Baptist Health Foundation, the Health Council of south Florida, the Florida Section of the American College of OB/GYN (ACOG), National Patient Safety Foundation, as well as the Dade County Medical Association. He is currently ACOG assistant secretary and serves on their Executive Committee. Dr. Gluck has an interest in access to healthcare. For his work in establishing a prenatal clinic in an area of critical need he received ACOG president's Service Award and Humanitarian of the Year Award from the South Florida Perinatal Network. He led the Florida initiative to promote depression screening and treatment in women recognized by the Wyeth National Section Award. He co-chaired the Governance Committee of the Mayor's Task Force charged with solving the problem of providing care for the over 450,000 uninsured residents of Miami-Dade County. [source] Caring for Older Americans: The Future of Geriatric MedicineJOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue S6 2005American Geriatrics Society Core Writing Group of the Task Force on the Future of Geriatric Medicine In response to the needs and demands of an aging population, geriatric medicine has grown rapidly during the past 3 decades. The discipline has defined its core values as well as the knowledge base and clinical skills needed to improve the health, functioning, and well-being of older persons and to provide appropriate palliative care. Geriatric medicine has developed new models of care, advanced the treatment of common geriatric conditions, and advocated for the health and health care of older persons. Nevertheless, at the beginning of the 21st century, the health care of older persons is at a crossroads. Despite the substantial progress that geriatric medicine has made, much more remains to be done to meet the healthcare needs of our aging population. The clinical, educational, and research approaches of the 20th century are unable to keep pace and require major revisions. Maintaining the status quo will mean falling further and further behind. The healthcare delivery and financing systems need fundamental redesign to improve quality and eliminate waste. The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Task Force on the Future of Geriatric Medicine has identified five goals aimed at optimizing the health of older persons: ,,To ensure that every older person receives high-quality, patient-centered health care ,,To expand the geriatrics knowledge base ,,To increase the number of healthcare professionals who employ the principles of geriatric medicine in caring for older persons ,,To recruit physicians and other healthcare professionals into careers in geriatric medicine ,,To unite professional and lay groups in the effort to influence public policy to continually improve the health and health care of seniors Geriatric medicine cannot accomplish these goals alone. Accordingly, the Task Force has articulated a set of recommendations primarily aimed at the government, organizations, agencies, foundations, and other partners whose collaboration will be essential in accomplishing these goals. The vision described in this document and the accompanying recommendations are only the broad outline of an agenda for the future. Geriatric medicine, through its professional organizations and its partners, will need to mobilize resources to identify and implement the specific steps that will make the vision a reality. Doing so will require broad participation, consensus building, creativity, and perseverance. The consequences of inaction will be profound. The combination of a burgeoning number of older persons and an inadequately prepared, poorly organized physician workforce is a recipe for expensive, fragmented health care that does not meet the needs of our older population. By virtue of their unique skills and advocacy for the health of older persons, geriatricians can be key leaders of change to achieve the goals of geriatric medicine and optimize the health of our aging population. Nevertheless, the goals of geriatric medicine will be accomplished only if geriatricians and their partners work in a system that is designed to provide high-quality, efficient care and recognizes the value of geriatrics. [source] Bisphosphonate-Associated Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Report of a Task Force of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research,,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 10 2007Sundeep Khosla (Chair) Abstract ONJ has been increasingly suspected to be a potential complication of bisphosphonate therapy in recent years. Thus, the ASBMR leadership appointed a multidisciplinary task force to address key questions related to case definition, epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic imaging, clinical management, and future areas for research related to the disorder. This report summarizes the findings and recommendations of the task force. Introduction: The increasing recognition that use of bisphosphonates may be associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) led the leadership of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR) to appoint a task force to address a number of key questions related to this disorder. Materials and Methods: A multidisciplinary expert group reviewed all pertinent published data on bisphosphonate-associated ONJ. Food and Drug Administration drug adverse event reports were also reviewed. Results and Conclusions: A case definition was developed so that subsequent studies could report on the same condition. The task force defined ONJ as the presence of exposed bone in the maxillofacial region that did not heal within 8 wk after identification by a health care provider. Based on review of both published and unpublished data, the risk of ONJ associated with oral bisphosphonate therapy for osteoporosis seems to be low, estimated between 1 in 10,000 and <1 in 100,000 patient-treatment years. However, the task force recognized that information on incidence of ONJ is rapidly evolving and that the true incidence may be higher. The risk of ONJ in patients with cancer treated with high doses of intravenous bisphosphonates is clearly higher, in the range of 1,10 per 100 patients (depending on duration of therapy). In the future, improved diagnostic imaging modalities, such as optical coherence tomography or MRI combined with contrast agents and the manipulation of image planes, may identify patients at preclinical or early stages of the disease. Management is largely supportive. A research agenda aimed at filling the considerable gaps in knowledge regarding this disorder was also outlined. [source] Consensus Statement from the Cardiac Nomenclature Study Group of Arrhythmias of the European Society of Cardiology, and the Task Force on Cardiac Nomenclature from the North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology on Living Anatomy of the Atrioventricular JunctionsJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 11 2000DARLENE K. RACKER PH.D. [source] Consensus Statement from the Cardiac Nomenclature Study Group of Arrhythmias of the European Society of Cardiology, and the Task Force on Cardiac Nomenclature from the North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology on Living Anatomy of the Atrioventricular JunctionsJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 11 2000Reply to the Editor [source] Satisfaction of osteoarthritis patients with provided care is not related to the disease-specific quality of lifeJOURNAL OF EVALUATION IN CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 3 2009Thomas Rosemann MD PhD Abstract Background, Osteoarthritis (OA) has a high prevalence in primary care. Patient satisfaction is an important indicator for the quality of care provided to OA patients. Little is known about satisfaction of patients with this condition in a primary care setting in Germany. The aim of the study was to assess current satisfaction of patients and reveal possible disease and quality of life related predictors. Methods/Design, Seventy-five German GPs approached 1250 patients with OA consecutively. Sociodemographics, OA-specific quality of life (GERMAN-AIMS2-SF), co-morbidities and depression (using PHQ-9) were assessed. Patient satisfaction was measured by means of the European Task Force on Patient Evaluations of General Practice (EUROPEP) instrument. A stepwise linear regression analysis with the EUROPEP score as dependent variable controlled for the amount of GP visits was performed to assess predictors of satisfaction. Results, A total of 1021 OA patients returned the questionnaire. The adjusted R2 of the final model was 0.270 (P < 0.001). The main predictors were the PHQ-9 score (beta = ,0.372; P < 0.001), age (beta = ,0.185; P < 0.001), living alone (beta = ,0.209; P < 0.001) and number of co-morbidities (beta = ,0.152; P < 0.001). The only disease-related factor which remained as predictor of patient satisfaction was duration of OA (beta = ,0.105; P = 0.008). Discussion, The finding that depression and social factors are more important for patient satisfaction with provided care than disease-related aspects suggests that these factors need to be considered carefully in treatment. This represents a big challenge within an increasingly specialized health care system. The General Practitioner as the regular and first-choice provider of health care seems to be the most appropriate instance who can accomplish this. [source] Pediatric hospital medicine core competencies: Development and methodologyJOURNAL OF HOSPITAL MEDICINE, Issue S2 2010Erin R. Stucky MD Abstract Background: Pediatric hospital medicine is the most rapidly growing site-based pediatric specialty. There are over 2500 unique members in the three core societies in which pediatric hospitalists are members: the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Academic Pediatric Association (APA) and the Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM). Pediatric hospitalists are fulfilling both clinical and system improvement roles within varied hospital systems. Defined expectations and competencies for pediatric hospitalists are needed. Methods: In 2005, SHM's Pediatric Core Curriculum Task Force initiated the project and formed the editorial board. Over the subsequent four years, multiple pediatric hospitalists belonging to the AAP, APA, or SHM contributed to the content of and guided the development of the project. Editors and collaborators created a framework for identifying appropriate competency content areas. Content experts from both within and outside of pediatric hospital medicine participated as contributors. A number of selected national organizations and societies provided valuable feedback on chapters. The final product was validated by formal review from the AAP, APA, and SHM. Results: The Pediatric Hospital Medicine Core Competencies were created. They include 54 chapters divided into four sections: Common Clinical Diagnoses and Conditions, Core Skills, Specialized Clinical Services, and Healthcare Systems: Supporting and Advancing Child Health. Each chapter can be used independently of the others. Chapters follow the knowledge, skills, and attitudes educational curriculum format, and have an additional section on systems organization and improvement to reflect the pediatric hospitalist's responsibility to advance systems of care. Conclusion: These competencies provide a foundation for the creation of pediatric hospital medicine curricula and serve to standardize and improve inpatient training practices. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010;5(4)(Suppl 2):82,86. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine. [source] Knowledge in Interior DesignJOURNAL OF INTERIOR DESIGN, Issue 1 2005Anna Marshall-Baker Ph.D. Anna Marshall-Baker teaches in the Department of Interior Architecture at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where she focuses on sustaining design and the reciprocal effects of environments and human development, particularly in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). With academic and practical experience in fine and commercial art, interior design, and psychology, she serves as a member of the Recommended Standards Consensus Committee for NICU Design, Interim Chair of the Sustaining Design Task Force for IDEC, Department Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Past-President of IDEC, and a reviewer for the Journal of Interior Design. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||