Search

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a predictive model to evaluate pretreatment patient-specific quality assurance (QA) based on treatment planning parameters for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for liver carcinoma. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively selected 180 cases of liver SBRT treated using the volumetric modulated arc therapy technique. Numerous parameters defining the plan complexity were calculated from the DICOM-RP (Radiotherapy Plan) file using an in-house program developed in MATLAB. Patient-specific QA was performed with global gamma evaluation criteria of 2%/2 mm and 3%/3 mm in a relative mode using the Octavius two-dimensional detector array. Various statistical tests and multivariate predictive models were evaluated. Results: The leaf speed (MILS) and planning target volume size showed the highest correlation with the gamma criteria of 2%/2 mm and 3%/3 mm (P < 0.05). Degree of modulation (DoM), MCSSPORT, leaf speed (MILS), and gantry speed (MIGS) were predictors of global gamma pass rate (GPR) for 2%/2 mm (G22), whereas DoM, MCSSPORT, leaf speed (MILS) and robust decision making were predictors of the global GPR criterion of 3%/3 mm (G33). The variance inflation factor values of all predictors were <2, indicating that the data were not associated with each other. For the G22 prediction, the sensitivity and specificity of the model were 75.0% and 75.0%, respectively, whereas, for G33 prediction, the sensitivity and specificity of the model were 74.9% and 85.7%%, respectively. Conclusions: The model was potentially beneficial as an easy alternative to pretreatment QA in predicting the uncertainty in plan deliverability at the planning stage and could help reduce resources in busy clinics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:Visual acuity (VA) testing is crucial for early intervention in cases of visual impairment, especially in rural health care. This study aimed to determine the potential of a web-based VA test (PocDoc) in addressing the unique health care needs of rural areas through the comparison in its effectiveness against the conventional VA test in identifying visual impairment among an Indian rural population. Methods:Prospective comparative study conducted in December 2022 at a tertiary referral eye care center in central India. We evaluated all patients with the PocDoc VA tests using three device types, and the conventional VA test. Bland–Altman plot (BAP) compared PocDoc and conventional VA tests. Fisher's exact tests evaluated associations between categorical parameters. Kruskal–Wallis tests followed by post hoc Dunn's tests identified association between categorical parameters and numerical parameters. Results:We evaluated 428 patients (792 measurements of VA) with mean age 36.7 (±23.3) years. PocDoc resulted in slightly worse VA scores (mean logMAR: 0.345) than conventional (mean logMAR: 0.315). Correlation coefficient between the conventional and PocDoc logMAR VA values was rho = 0.845 and rho2 = 0.7133 (p = 6.617 × 10–215; adjusted p = 2.205 × 10–214). Most data points fell within the interchangeable range of ±0.32 on BAP. Difference between the two methods increased with higher logMAR values, indicating poorer agreement for worse VA scores. Conclusions:Identifying and addressing the unique health care needs of rural populations is critical, including access to appropriate and effective VA testing methods. Validating and improving VA testing methods can ensure early intervention and improve the quality of life for individuals with visual impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a flexible and robust metamaterial absorber is a great motivation for the new generation of microwave absorbers covering any conformal shape. Ceramic–polymer composites with variable dielectric constant within the microwave frequencies are proposed as a flexible middle dielectric spacer (MDS) layer to provide an additional degree of design freedom for metamaterial absorber applications. By varying the dielectric constant of the MDS layer, the resonance band of the metamaterial absorber can be tuned while retaining a low profile in addition to enhancing its electromagnetic performance for transverse magnetic (TM) polarized waves. To formulate these composites, tetragonal structured barium titanate (BaTiO3) powder is selected as an excellent candidate when mixed with elastomer polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), resulting in high mechanical strength substrates. Experimentally, samples with a range of dielectric permittivity from 2.81 to 5.67 were obtained for a 0%–20% volume fill fraction of BaTiO3 in PDMS. The obtained dielectric permittivities are consistent with the Bruggeman effective medium theory. Utilizing an optimized composition (10% BaTiO3), resulting in ϵ r = 4 substrate, an X-band flexible absorber is designed and fabricated to absorb more than 90% of incident electromagnetic waves within a frequency band of 8.16–12.12 GHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Teleconsultation services can be used to overcome the barriers imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic in providing basic orthopaedic rehabilitation services. Aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of rehabilitation provided via outpatient and teleconsultation in patients with mechanical low backache (LBA) and early osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee joint utilizing Patient-Reported Outcome Measures. The satisfaction level of patients receiving teleconsultation will also be assessed. Methodology: This study was a hospital-based prospective observational study. The study's participants were divided into two groups (Outpatient and Teleconsultation, respectively), and each group was further divided into two subgroups of 100 participants each (Knee-pain subgroup 1; LBA subgroup 2). SF-12 questionnaire, visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain, and functional outcome scores (KOOS score for knee pain and the modified Oswestry Disability Index-MODI for LBA) were assessed at initial presentation and 6 months follow-up. Participants' satisfaction for teleconsultation service was assessed at final follow-up by 5 points Likert scale (5, very satisfied; 1, very dissatisfied). Results: Mean consultation time was significantly longer in the outpatient group (p < 0.001). No statistically significant difference in the VAS score, KOOS score (58.0 ± 7.6 vs. 57.8 ± 9.2; p = 0.893), and MODI Score (24.7 ± 13.3 vs. 27.4 ± 12.4; p = 0.128) between the corresponding subgroups of the two groups at final follow-up. Eighty-seven percentage of the participants were satisfied (Likert score ≥ 4) with the teleconsultation services. Conclusion: Teleconsultation is equally effective to that as face-to-face outpatient consultation in the rehabilitation of patients with early OA knee and mechanical LBA. Level of study: Level 2, Prospective comparative study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper identifies and analyses customers' motives to co-create when interacting with smart services by integrating the self-determination theory with coordination mechanisms. The study also examines the how and to what extent value co-creation impacts on word-of-mouth and customer-based brand equity. An online questionnaire was employed for empirically validating the research model. The relationships were examined using partial least square path modelling. The findings show that intrinsic and extrinsic motives are significant antecedents of value co-creation. The coordination mechanisms namely, relating and knowing also significantly influence customers' involvement in the value co-creation process. Results also show that value co-creation mediates the relationship between customers motives (intrinsic and extrinsic) to co-create and consequences. Findings of this study adds to the human–computer interaction literature by strengthening the nomological network of value co-creation when interacting with smart services by proposing a novel model integrating both the antecedents and outcomes of value co-creation. By recognizing how this practice could be motivated, service providers can bolster customer-firm interactions and enable favourable firm level consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hospitals are the centre of cure and also the important centres of infectious waste generation. The lack of awareness and technical guidance in the management of the bio medical waste has led to the hospital becoming a hub in spreading diseases rather than working towards eradicating them. Hence, this study was undertaken to assess the existing knowledge, attitude and practices and to evaluate the impact of a training program on BMW management on the knowledge attitude and practices among the staff nurses. Methodology: Before and after comparison study was conducted in GGS Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab. The pre-intervention phase was performed using a sample 91 staff nurses. A predesigned interview questionnaire was used to assess KAP. Next, training was imparted to the study subjects and KAP were re-assessed using the same interview questionnaire. Overall correct answers obtained were categorized into Good (>30correct answers), Fair (20-25correct answers) and Poor (<20 correct answers). The data was compiled in Excel worksheet and percentage was used to interpret the results. Results: only 3 out of 91 respondents scored good (>30) before the educational programme i.e., training. Conclusion: It was also observed that there occurred markedly increase in the improvement in Knowledge, Attitude and Practices regarding BMW management rules among nursing staff as there were no respondents who scored fair or poor grade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid technological advancements have led to the emergence of smart services and smart consumers. This study focuses on smart consumers who voluntarily engage in value creation activities, in order to conceptualise smart experience co-creation (SEC) and the smart servicescape. Drawing on the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) framework, a model is proposed and tested around the impacts of smart servicescape dimensions (aesthetics, superior functionality, social presence, perceived interactivity and perceived personalisation) on smart consumer experience co-creation. SEC is conceptualised as a second-order construct consisting of cognitive, hedonic, social/personal, and pragmatic/economic first-order dimensions. Results show that the technological environmental cues of the smart servicescape (S) collectively influence smart experience co-creation (O), and this co-created experience eventually influences consumers' service brand equity and word-of-mouth (WOM) intentions (R). A major novelty of this study lies in uncovering the relationship between experience co-creation and service brand equity. Findings have theoretical and managerial implications for smart services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Customers are frequently connecting to other consumers resulting in both positive and negative comments. Despite widespread use of negative comments, it is common to see consumers defending their brands or products. However, less is known on what brand defense is and how to measure brand defense. Across three studies, we conceptualise and develop a scale to measure brand defense. Brand defense is conceptualised as the act of defending, forgiving, and advocating the brand. The results show that the scale is reliable, valid, and distinct from other brand measures, including brand love, brand trust, and brand loyalty. Results indicate that managers can work toward developing the kind of consumer-brand relationships that would promote brand defense; to combat negative publicity prevalent in the social media landscape in order to sustain brand reputation. Directions for future research and managerial implications of the new construct are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To estimate the fitting parameters of the sigmoidal dose response (SDR) curve of radiation-induced acute proctitis in prostate cancer patients treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for the calculation of normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). Materials and Methods: Twenty-five prostate cancer patients were enrolled and evaluated weekly for acute radiation-induced (ARI) proctitis toxicity. Their scoring was performed as per common terminology criteria for adverse events version 5.0. The radiobiological parameters namely n, m, TD50, and γ50 were calculated from the fitted SDR curve obtained from the clinical data of prostate cancer patients. Results: ARI toxicity for rectum in carcinoma of prostate patients was calculated for the endpoint of acute proctitis. The n, m, TD50, and γ50 parameters from the SDR curve of Grade 1 and Grade 2 acute proctitis are found to be 0.13, 0.10, 30.48 ± 1.52 (confidence interval [CI] 95%), 3.18 and 0.08, 0.10, 44.37 ± 2.21 (CI 95%), 4.76 respectively. Conclusion: This study presents the fitting parameters for NTCP calculation of Grade-1 and Grade-2 ARI rectum toxicity for the endpoint of acute proctitis. The provided nomograms of volume versus complication and dose versus complication for different grades of acute proctitis in the rectum help radiation oncologists to decide the limiting dose to reduce the acute toxicities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to estimate the fitting parameters of the sigmoidal dose response (SDR) curve of radiation-induced acute dermatitis in breast cancer patients treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy for calculation of normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). Materials and Methods: Twenty-five breast cancer patients were enrolled to model the SDR curve for acute dermatitis. The acute radiation-induced (ARI) dermatitis toxicity was assessed weekly for all the patients, and their scores were determined using the common terminology criterion adverse events version 5.0. The radiobiological parameters n, m, TD50, and γ50 were derived using the fitted SDR curve obtained from breast cancer Patient's clinical data. Results: ARI dermatitis toxicity in carcinoma of breast patients was calculated for the end point of acute dermatitis. The n, m, TD50, and γ50 parameters from the SDR curve of Grade-1 dermatitis are found to be 0.03, 0.04, 28.65 ± 1.43 (confidence interval [CI] 95%) and 1.02 and for Grade-2 dermatitis are found to be 0.026, 0.028, 38.65 ± 1.93 (CI. 95%) and 1.01 respectively. Conclusion: This research presents the fitting parameters for NTCP calculation of Grade-1 and Grade-2 acute radiation-induced skin toxicity in breast cancer for the dermatitis end point. The presented nomograms of volume versus complication probability and dose versus complication probability assist radiation oncologists in establishing the limiting dose to reduce acute toxicities for different grades of acute dermatitis in breast cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose/Objective(s): This study aimed to estimate the fitting parameters of sigmoidal dose-response (SDR) curve of radiation-induced acute oral and pharyngeal mucositis in head-and-neck (H and N) cancer patients treated with Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) for the calculation of normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). Materials and Methods: Thirty H-and-N cancer patients were enrolled to model the SDR curve for oral and pharyngeal mucositis. The patients were evaluated weekly for acute radiation-induced (ARI) oral and pharyngeal mucositis toxicity, and their scoring was performed as per the common terminology criteria adverse events version 5.0. The radiobiological parameters, namely n, m, TD50, and -50 were calculated from the fitted SDR curve obtained from the clinical data of H-and-N cancer patients. Results: ARI toxicity for oral and pharyngeal mucosa in carcinoma of H-and-N cancer patients was calculated for the endpoint oral mucositis and pharyngeal mucositis. The n, m, TD50, and -50 parameters from the SDR curve of Grade 1 and Grade 2 oral mucositis were found to be [0.10, 0.32, 12.35 ± 3.90 (confidence interval [CI] 95%) and 1.26] and [0.06, 0.33, 20.70 ± 6.95 (CI 95%) and 1.19] respectively. Similarly for pharyngeal mucositis, n, m, TD50, and -50 parameters for Grade 1 and Grade 2 were found to be [0.07, 0.34, 15.93 ± 5.48 (CI. 95%) and 1.16 ] and [0.04, 0.25, 39.02 ± 9.98(CI. 95%) and 1.56] respectively. Conclusion: This study presents the fitting parameters for NTCP calculation of Grade 1 and Grade 2 ARI toxicity for the endpoint of oral and pharyngeal mucositis. The provided nomograms of volume versus complication and dose versus complication for different grades of oral mucositis and pharyngeal mucositis help radiation oncologists to decide the limiting dose to reduce the acute toxicities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to estimate the fitting parameters of sigmoidal dose-response (SDR) curve of radiation-induced acute rectal mucositis in pelvic cancer patients treated with Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) for the calculation of normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). Materials and Methods: Thirty cervical cancer patients were enrolled to model the SDR curve for rectal mucositis. The patients were evaluated weekly for acute radiation-induced (ARI) rectal mucositis toxicity and their scoring was performed as per Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. The radiobiological parameters, namely n, m, TD50, and -50 were calculated from the fitted SDR curve obtained from the clinical data of cervical cancer patients. Results: ARI toxicity for rectal mucosa in carcinoma of cervical cancer patients was calculated for the endpoint rectal mucositis. The n, m, TD50, and -50 parameters from the SDR curve of Grade 1 and Grade 2 rectal mucositis were found to be 0.328, 0.047, 25.44 ± 1.21 (confidence interval [CI]: 95%), and 8.36 and 0.13, 0.07, 38.06 ± 2.94 (CI: 95%), and 5.15, respectively. Conclusion: This study presents the fitting parameters for NTCP calculation of Grade 1 and Grade 2 ARI rectal toxicity for the endpoint of rectal mucositis. The provided nomograms of volume versus complication and dose versus complication for different grades of rectal mucositis help radiation oncologists to decide the limiting dose to reduce the acute toxicities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of social media in orthopaedic surgery and its allied associations has not been studied. There are various associations which are actively engaged in social media platforms to enhance their impact with their users across the globe. We evaluated the social media presence and extent of involvement of orthopaedics journals and their publishing companies, orthopaedics organizations, orthopaedics device firms, and health organizations. Materials and methods: We compiled a global list of orthopaedics journals and publishing companies, orthopaedics organizations, orthopaedics device firms and health organizations affiliated to orthopaedics (USA) through the internet and their reliable online links. All the categories and their contents were screened on various social media networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn) in terms of their membership, likes, followers and active participation. Comparable variables were selected and compared. Results: Orthopaedics journals corresponding to sports and health were more notable than others on social networking platforms, i.e., British Journal of Sports Medicine and American Journal of Sports Medicine. Medscape, Lancet, and Elsevier being the multispeciality health and information publishing companies have remarkable participation on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Medtronic has maximum followers on all discussed social networking sites. Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota and Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio were more admired than other orthopaedics hospitals on Facebook and Twitter in USA. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons was the most popular society on Facebook and LinkedIn while American Orthopaedics Society for Sports Medicine was most talked about on twitter. Conclusions: Although the active involvement of orthopaedics journals and their publishers is lower than multispecialty publishing companies but increasing trends were found recently. Orthopaedics organisations and device firms were actively involved on social networking while orthopaedics multispeciality health organizations associated with renowned universities have huge likes or followers. The social networking has the potential to flourish these journals and organisations in the near future as large populations over the globe have been actively participating and growing in their numbers exponentially [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In several regions throughout the globe, caesarean sections constitute the most common nonobstetric surgery, followed by hysterectomy, which is the surgical excision of the uterus. While it is not the only solution for reproductive organ issues, it is the most effective technique to treat many illnesses over the long term. The uterus is a very critical reproductive organ for all age groups as this is not only essential for giving birth but also for hormonal-related physiology in women's life. The quality of life is impacted by a number of hysterectomy-related effects on females. Physical, psychological, environmental, and social relations are some of these impacts. All EuroQol five-dimensions (EQ5D) subscales significantly improved, as per the research 's findings. Preoperative psychosocial status, perioperative pain, indication of hysterectomy, complications occur during surgery, and mode of hysterectomy postoperative infection had been discovered as determinants of quality of life outcome following hysterectomy. In most of the subjects we noticed small, however, noticeable improvements in all component of EQ5D Scale. The strengths of EQ5D questionnaire lie in its simplicity and moreover it is available in several languages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single micrometer-sized features were fabricated on ARN-4340 photoresist using a 3D additive technique of two-photon polymerization (TPP). An economic TPP setup capable of producing a large area was developed in the lab using a sub-nanosecond laser. The Photo-initiator (2, 4 Diethyl-9H-thioxanthen-9-one) with a large two-photon absorption cross-section was used to enhance the polymerization. It was theoretically determined that the dimensions of the polymerized features depend on the concentration of the photo-initiator. A novel image-based focusing technique was developed to achieve uniform microsized features on a large area. In the proposed TPP setup, the developed focusing technique was used to determine the area over the sample, which can be polymerized in one go. To demonstrate the capability of the developed setup, microstructures of about 1 µm width were fabricated over an area of 4 cm2. Further, the fabricated sample was used to develop a master mold of Polydimethylsiloxane, which can be used for a soft-lithography replication process. Also, the melt flow technique was explored to reduce the roughness in the fabricated structure. The multi-photon polymerization process using the sub-nanosecond laser is shown to be cost-effective and robust for large area microstructure fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To find out the simple relationship between Total Reference Air Kerma (TRAK) and various isodose volumes. Calculated isodose volumes were compared with experimental data for revised Manchester and International Commission on Radiation Units and measurements (ICRU)-89 Point A-based treatment plans. The accuracy of the formula was compared with the results of other relationships available in the literature.Materials and Methods: Dosimetric data from 62 intracavitary brachytherapy (ICBT) treatment plans of 31 patients with cervical cancer were studied. Each patient had treatment plans normalized to revised Manchester and ICRU-89 Points A (Aflange and Aicru89). For each treatment plan, TRAK values, V350, V700, V1050, and V1400 were obtained. The modeling curve was plotted between Isodose volume (Vd) and the ratio of d/TRAK obtained from Aflange plans to get a mathematical relation. The results of this formula were compared with the experimental data and outcomes of other formulas available in the literature. A paired-sample t-test was performed to assess the statistical significance.Results: In the case of revised Manchester-based Aflange normalization plans, the mean isodose volume of V350, V700, V1050, and V1400 were 285.98 ± 32.3 cm3, 101.96 ± 10.63 cm3, 52.71 ± 4.72 cm3, and 31.44 ± 2.33 cm3 respectively. Likewise, for ICRU-89 based Aicru89 normalization plans, the mean isodose volumes of V350, V700, V1050, and V1400 were 304.11 ± 26.17 cm3, 108.88 ± 8.29 cm3, 56.62 ± 3.69 cm3 and 34 ± 2.23 cm3 respectively. The mean difference was significant. The Mathematical relationship developed was [INLINE:1]. No correlation was found between TRAK and D0.1cm3,D2cm3 for organs at risk.Conclusions: The developed formula calculated isodose volumes within the accuracy of ± 3% in ICBT plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Periodontal disease constitutes a group of diseases involving inflammatory aspects of the host caused by several microbial agents that affect periodontal tissues and could have systemic implications. Objective: The present study was conducted to assess the correlation of COVID-19 infection and severity of periodontitis in subjects who has mild form of the disease as compared to subjects having moderate form of the disease. Materials and Methods: The study included 116 subjects suffering from COVID-19 that were equally divided into two groups, each based on a convenient sampling methodology. Group I had a moderate form of COVID that required hospitalization and Group II had a mild form of COVID and were treated at home. The stage of periodontal disease was assessed in both groups. Also, laboratory parameters such as level of C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell (WBC), D-dimer, vitamin D, and lymphocytes were also assessed. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square and multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: More than 75% of subjects in both groups were non-smokers. Subjects having more than one comorbid condition were more in number in Group I (51.7%) as compared to Group II (24%). Severe periodontitis (stages 2–4) was found in 81% of subjects in Group I and 46.2% of subjects in Group II [Figure 1]. The odds of getting severe periodontal disease were 6.32 times more in subjects belonging to Group I as compared to Group II. Subjects having more than one comorbid condition were 4.43 times at risk of severe periodontitis as compared to subjects with no co-morbidity Conclusion: Severe form of periodontal disease was associated with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 infection and levels of lymphocytes, WBCs, and CRP were elevated in subjects belonging to Group I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an optically transparent metamaterial with broadband absorption is presented theoretically and demonstrated experimentally. The design comprises of structures made of resistive films of indium-tin-oxide and the metamaterial exhibits over 10 dB absorption in the frequency range of 6.06-14.66GHz. The novelty of the structure lies in its large absorption bandwidth along with a reduced thickness and optical transparency compared to broadband absorbers reported earlier. Besides, the proposed design is polarization-insensitive and gives rise to angular independent absorption for both transverse electric and transverse magnetic polarizations. The absorption mechanism in the structure has been studied by deriving an equivalent circuit model as well as analyzing several design parameters. Finally, a prototype of the proposed structure has been fabricated and measured, which shows good agreement with the simulated results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple optically transparent absorber based on a double complementary structured layer of the indium-tin-oxide (ITO) deposited polyethylene terephthalate film is presented. The structure showed more than 90% absorption from 2 to 4.5 GHz of the frequency with a thickness of 0.0847 $\lambda _L$ (wavelength corresponding to the lowest frequency of absorption band). The computed absorptivity of the proposed structure is validated using the transmission line theory and measured experimentally as well. The structure has polarization-insensitive response and is highly stable for the oblique wave incidence over a wide angular range. This absorber can be conformally wrapped on a curved surface and reduces the radar cross section (RCS) by more than 10 dB of a curve cylinder. This 10 dB RCS reduction covers almost the entire S-band of microwave frequencies. Optical transparency and flexibility of the proposed absorber make it suitable for a wide range of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we have demonstrated the fabrication of perforated absorbers on two substrates, i.e., ITO/PET and Twill weave cloth. Perforation is required to enable the use of absorbers in the application where air breathability, ventilation and thermal equilibrium are necessary. For perforations, holes were machined in all the layers of the absorber. To ascertain the effect of perforations on both the absorbers' performance, simulation, using ANSYS HFSS software, was carried out. In the ITO/PET-based absorber, it was found that there were no significant effects of the variation of hole radius on the absorption. However, for textile-based absorber, the hole radius had a significant impact on the absorption. The proposed ITO/PET-based fabricated MMA can absorb radiation in the frequency band from 7.64 GHz to 16.6 GHz, whereas the textile-based absorber can absorb more than 90% of the frequency band corresponding to 6.61 GHz to 17.91 GHz. The measured absorptions are found to be in good agreement with the simulated results. Furthermore, perforation gives two mechanical advantages to the absorber: first, it reduces the absorber's weight by 25% and 35%, respectively, in the case of ITO/PET- and textile-based absorber, and second, it increases the bendability of the absorber. Through experiments, we found that the perforated sample bends by an extra 22 ∘ and 24 ∘ , respectively, for ITO/PET- and TWC-based absorber when placed as a cantilever. Theoretically, it was calculated that there would be a four-time increase in the absorber's bendability due to perforations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In order to achieve competitive advantage over the physical marketplace, the e-retailers are insisted on endowing with lenient return policies. The piece-wise returns-and-reordering process incurs excessive buffering and unwanted logistics costs which raises overall fulfillment charges. The objective of this study is to re-design e-retail distribution policy by providing temporal storage at logistics service provides' (LSP) location. The impact of recurrent returns on pricing and profit margins are also investigated over time continuum. Design/methodology/approach: A framework is developed to reduce the non-value added (NVA) storage and distribution efforts by providing collaborative buffering between LSP and e-retailer. The knapsack based buffering approach is tested and compared with traditional e-retail distribution practices. The revenue sharing concept is mathematically modelled and implemented in GAMS, which finally validated through multiple return scenarios. Findings: The proposed model outperforms the existing one under all scenarios with different configuration settings of re-ordering, profit margins, and buffer time windows. The distribution cost is found, linearly related to the necessary product buffering space. The findings help to re-design sustainable return policies for individual products so that maximum customer value can be yield with minimum costs. Research limitations/implications: This study helps to determine the NVA efforts incurred while storing and delivering multi-time returned products to ensure desired service levels. The revenue sharing model provides pricing strategies for e-retail practitioners deciding which product should store in what quantity for how much time at the shipping agency location so that it fulfils the re-ordering at least waiting and sufficient buffering. Originality/value: The proposed model extends the role of LPSs as temporary buffer providers to reduce returns-and-reordering fulfilment efforts in the e-retail network. This Collaborative framework offers an opportunity to amend the distribution contracts and policies time by time that enhances e-retailer's performance and customer satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this letter, three different wrapping methods i.e., circle having incisions (CI), pentagon and hexagon (P&H) and petals wrapping are proposed for covering of spherical shaped surfaces with flat microwave metamaterial absorber (MMA) without defects. To achieve the better performance, an extensive analytical study was carried for counting the number of unit cells and packing fraction in the aforementioned techniques. It was found that maximum number of unit cell can be wrapped over a spherical ball by using CI method. The maximum packing fraction was found to be in P&H method. Further, we studied variation in the number of unit cells and packing fraction for variation in the shapes (circle, square, and hexagon) and size (2–4 mm) of the unit cell. For experimental purpose, an indium tin oxide coated over polyethylene terephtalate (ITO/PET)-based conformal MMA was designed and then fabricated using excimer laser micromachining. The proposed conformal absorber gives broadband absorption from 6.21 to 15 GHz. Finally, the fabricated absorber was wrapped on a spherical ball and microwave response was measured. The measured microwave response was compared with the simulated response and found to be in good agreement with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Commercial treatment planning system (TPS) does not have any tool to provide the quantitative analysis of DVH bands (corresponding to each delineated structure) in a radiotherapy treatment plan (RTP). The proposed study reveals the design and algorithm of an in-house developed "DVH Analyzer" tool that provides quantitative analysis of DVH bands. Further, the clinical use of this tool demonstrated with the use of four different clinical cases. Methods: DVH bands for each of the delineated structures in different RTPs generated using the "Plan Uncertainty Parameters" (PUP) module in the TPS by simulating different patient setup errors (PSE) in iso-center of the base plan in x-, y-, and z-directions. DVH bands were exported from the TPS and imported into the DVH Analyzer for processing, analysis, and plotting through various modules. Results: Various user-defined volumetric and dosimetric parameters were calculated from DVH bands of each of the delineated structures in different RTPs. The impact of PSE on the user-defined parameters was also analyzed and graphically demonstrated for different clinical sites. Conclusions: The unique feature of DVH Analyzer to handle DVH bands provides a quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the robust RTPs generated with different PSE. The flexibility in design and implementation of DVH Analyzer makes it a promising tool for the clinics that could be utilized for clinical evaluation of robust treatment plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) can be defined as the teaming of aerial robots (artificial agents) along with a human pilot (natural agent), in which the human agent is not an authoritative controller but rather a cooperative team player. To our knowledge, no study has yet evaluated the impact of MUM-T scenarios on operators' mental workload (MW) using a neuroergonomic approach (i.e., using physiological measures), nor provided a MW estimation through classification applied on those measures. Moreover, the impact of the non-stationarity of the physiological signal is seldom taken into account in classification pipelines, particularly regarding the validation design. Therefore this study was designed with two goals: (i) to characterize and estimate MW in a MUM-T setting based on physiological signals; (ii) to assess the impact of the validation procedure on classification accuracy. In this context, a search and rescue (S&R) scenario was developed in which 14 participants played the role of a pilot cooperating with three UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles). Missions were designed to induce high and low MW levels, which were evaluated using self-reported, behavioral and physiological measures (i.e., cerebral, cardiac, and oculomotor features). Supervised classification pipelines based on various combinations of these physiological features were benchmarked, and two validation procedures were compared (i.e., a traditional one that does not take time into account vs. an ecological one that does). The main results are: (i) a significant impact of MW on all measures, (ii) a higher intra-subject classification accuracy (75%) reached using ECG features alone or in combination with EEG and ET ones with the Adaboost, Linear Discriminant Analysis or the Support Vector Machine classifiers. However this was only true with the traditional validation. There was a significant drop in classification accuracy using the ecological one. Interestingly, inter-subject classification with ecological validation (59.8%) surpassed both intra-subject with ecological and inter-subject with traditional validation. These results highlight the need for further developments to perform MW monitoring in such operational contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissipation kinetics and dietary risk assessment of spiromesifen is worked out on four summer vegetables, viz. okra, chilli, capsicum and brinjal (eggplant or aubergine) during March–April 2015 at the experimental farm of the Department of Entomology, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Nauni, Solan using good agricultutral practices. Two foliar applications of spiromesifen @ 144.0 g.a.i./ha each were given at 10 days interval with a knapsack sprayer with the first application at the fruit initiation stage. Sample were collected up to 15 days after pesticide application and processed using a modified QuEChERS method, which was validated by doing recovery studies having recovery range and RSD within established guidelines of SANCO. Estimation of spiromesifen residues was conducted on GC–MS. The initial deposits after spraying of spiromesifen on okra, capsicum, chilli and brinjal fruit after 2 h of treatment were 1.327, 0.727, 0.800 and 0.738 mg/kg, respectively. The residues persisted up to 7 days and further dissipated and declined below the limit of quantification of <0.025 mg/kg at 10 days after treatment in all of the crops under investigation. Dissipation of spiromesifen followed first‐order kinetics. The spiromesifen residues dissipated to half in 1.6, 1.8, 1.9 and 1.7 days with the suggested safe waiting period of 8.9, 5.2, 6.0 and 7.0 in the respective crops. The hazard quotient was <1 and theoretical maximum dietary intake was less than the maximum permissible intake, which was less than the maximum residue limit in all of the vegetable crops under investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To model the interplay effect and minimize it by a selection of optimum parameters value using a predictive model for SBRT of liver cancers. Ten cases of liver tumors treated with the VMAT technique were selected retrospectively. The dosimetric error due to the interplay effect was measured with a micro ionization chamber (0.015cm3) in a Quasar phantom simulating the moving tumor. The interplay effect dependent parameter's viz. patient breaths per minute, the amplitude of respiration, fractional dose (FD), plan complexity due to different energies (Relative degree of modulation), degree of modulation due to a different level of dose optimization constraints, and dose rate (DR) were measured. For the predictive model, mathematical equations were modeled in python from 300 combinations of proposed parameters using multivariate regression analysis. It was observed that the dose variation reduced from −8.44% to −5.16% for change in the BPM values from 7 to 31 and similarly for amplitude, the dose variation reduced from −9.44% to −4.93% for change in amplitude value from 16 mm to 2 mm. The DR and FD have a prominent effect with R2 values of 0.990 and 0.880 respectively. The calculated mean square errors of equations excluding amplitude for the predictive model were 0.90 and 0.82 whereas those for equations excluding BPM were 1.31 and 1.41 for 6 MV and 10 MV beams respectively. The values of the parameters can be prospectively optimized by the use of the predictive model according to clinical situations, so dose variation can be minimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:The etiology of childhood malnutrition is complex involving interactions of multiple determinants that include biological, cultural and socio-economic influences. Hence the present study was planned and commenced to assess the nutritional status of children aged 1-5 years residing in urban slums of Faridkot. Material and Methods:The present community based cross sectional study was conducted in urban slums of Faridkot block among children aged 1-5 years and their mothers. House to house survey was conducted and urban slum wise line list of households was made with children required age group. After interview, anthropometric measurements of mother (height and weight) and child (height, weight, mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), head circumference and chest circumference) was measured using standardized tools. The data was analyzed using suitable SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 20. Results:19.2% children were stunted (on the basis of z-score or standard deviation classification system). 15.66% were underweight (on the basis of z-score or standard deviation classification system). 43.7% were malnourished (according to their BMI), out of which 10% were overweight, 15.6% were obese, 13.3% were thin, and 4.8 % were severely thin. 16.6% children had chest circumference (below desired normal range for age). 12.3% of the study subjects had head circumference (below desired normal range for age). 88% of the children had Mid upper arm circumference below normal range i.e.13.5 cm. Conclusion: Enhancement of education of mothers and caretakers regarding increased nutritional intake with increasing age, proper child-rearing and feeding practices, and improving hygiene and sanitation forms the basis of child's good health. In our study, we found that majority of the mothers used to breastfed their children till 2 years and delayed their complimentary feeding beyond 6 months. So, the risk of malnutrition among the children of urban slums can be addressed by strict adherence to the Infant and young child feeding (IYCF) guidelines and continuous monitoring of the feeding practices by health workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart retail technologies are transforming the way companies engage with customers in retailing context. However, the real onset is unknown of which smart retail technology (SRT) characteristics and customer responses pave the way for customer engagement behaviour. This research investigates customer engagement behaviour in smart retailing by integrating meta-UTAUT and SRT characteristics. By analysing quantitative survey data using PLS path modelling, customer engagement manifestations are measured. Results show complex relationships between SRT characteristics (novelty, effectiveness, and interaction quality) and meta-UTAUT variables (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions) in influencing customers' attitude, behavioural intention, and engagement behaviour towards smart retailing. Retailers can use the findings to influence customers' attitudes towards smart retail technologies, encouraging them to display customer engagement behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, an optically transparent and flexible microwave absorber for X and Ku bands application has been presented. The proposed absorber uses optically transparent ITO coated PET sheet for creating ohmic loss and polydimethylsiloxane has been used as a dielectric substrate for optical transparency and flexibility. The novelty of the structure lies in its optical transparency and flexible with increased absorption bandwidth and minimum thickness in comparison to previously reported state of the art absorbers. The proposed absorber exhibits absorptivity (above 90%) in the frequency range from 8.00 to 20.70 GHz under normal incidence. The thickness of the absorber is 0.196λg (where λg correspond to guided wavelength with respect to dielectric constant εr). An equivalent circuit model has been proposed which shows good match with the full wave model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tebuconazole is a broad-spectrum fungicide extensively used worldwide for the control of many diseases such as powdery mildew and scab in apple, early blight of tomato, anthracnose of chilli, white rot and purple blotch of onion etc. Maximum residue level of this compound has not been worked out on these crops in India; the persistence and dissipation kinetics of tebuconazole on apple, tomato, chilli and onion were studied following three foliar applications of the formulation Folicur 430 SC at a standard dose (X) 322, 268.75, 215 and 215 g a.i./ha and at double dose (2X) 645, 537.5, 430 and 430 g a.i./ha, respectively, to work out the safe waiting periods and half-life period of tebuconazole. Extraction was done using QuEChERS method and cleanup by using dispersive solid-phase method. Tebuconazole residues were estimated on gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The recovery of tebuconazole in fortified matrix was above 90% with a limit of quantification (LOQ) at 0.05 mg kg−1. The initial deposits of tebuconazole on apple at two locations under study ranged from 1.986–2.011 mg kg−1at X dose to 3.698–3.843 mg kg−1 at 2X dose. The initial deposits in tomato, chilli and onion were 1.129, 1.760 and 1.169 mg kg−1 at X dose and 2.213, 2.784 and 2.340 mg kg−1, respectively at the 2X dose. Dissipation of the fungicide followed first-order of kinetics and the half life of degradation ranged from 1.30–2.25 days at X dose to 1.40–2.62 days at 2X days on different crops under study. Residues declined below the determination limit (LOQ) of 15 and 20 days after spraying, respectively, at X and 2X dose in apple; 7 and 10 days in tomato; 10 and 15 days in chilli and onion. Waiting periods of 5, 2, 7 and 12 days, respectively, are suggested for apple, tomato, chilli and onion at 2X dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheets being a thriving candidate for flexible and transparent microwave metamaterial absorbers (MMAs), these materials are not robust under severe environmental and handling conditions. The ITO coatings are brittle and have poor scratch resistance when coated over flexible PET sheets; hence, their electrical performance degrades in time. Here, thin films of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and also its composite with 3-aminopropyltriehoxysilane (APTES) processed at room temperature have been investigated as protective coatings over ITO-coated PET sheets, particularly for MMA application. Prior to coating, the effectiveness of various surface treatments to increase the ITO’s wettability by exposure to UV light, chemicals, and air plasma was demonstrated by contact angle measurements. Furthermore, the consequences of surface treatments on the adhesion of the protective coatings to the ITO surface were studied using microindentation, pencil scratch test, ultrasonication test, water soak test, and shower test. Measurements of microwave absorption of the coated and uncoated substrates (PET and ITO-PET) over the $X$ -band (8.2–12.4 GHz) showed a similar electromagnetic (EM) response approximately. Finally, free-space measurements of the MMA before and after PVB coating at its top and bottom were compared from 4 to 16 GHz, and the maximum EM absorption was found to have increased from 95.94% to 98.56%. Optical transparency of coated ITO-PET was quantified by measuring the optical transmittance at 632.8-nm wavelength using red laser and found to be equal to 68.9 ± 6.9. The mechanical strength of the developed coatings is analyzed by nanoindentation technique by obtaining values of hardness and elastic modulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of Kuntscher nail for femur fracture dates back to World War 2. Since then, the technique of intramedullary nailing has evolved and the use of Kuntscher nail has become almost obsolete. The orthopaedic surgeons across the globe are facing a new challenge of removal of these Kuntscher nails due to different indications. Different but scattered English literature has been published describing the experiences and techniques of surgeon with K nail removal. Up till now, no systematic analysis has been performed evaluating the available literature. We have planned a systematic review to evaluate and explore the various indications and techniques of K nail removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore green packaging from the process dimension. Specifically, it focuses on understanding the behavior of costs associated with installing green packaging infrastructure.Design/methodology/approach The study used system dynamics to design the model. The model was tested on three industries employed in manufacturing glass bottles to generalize the result.Findings The study concludes that cost of remanufacturing which initially is higher because of recollection phases and reverse logistics costs eventually becomes lower than new manufacturing as soon as system achieves stability and continues to follow the same trend over the period of time.Practical implications The study put forwards an explanation to the concerns of manufacturers who were unwilling to install green packaging or remanufacturing infrastructure into their operations because of several cost- and risk-related dilemmas.Originality/value The study extends the academic literature by answering the queries raised by Kassaye and Holloway (2015). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this letter, an optically transparent broadband microwave absorber has been developed. The proposed geometry is constructed of the patterned resistive films of an indium-tin-oxide on flexible substrates, such that the structure exhibits broadband absorptivity (above 90%) from 4 to 17.20 GHz (covering C, X, and Ku bands). The novelty of the design lies in leveraging the properties of interdigital capacitance to achieve wide absorption (fractional bandwidth of 124.53%), angular stability, as well as optical transparency compared to the earlier reported broadband absorbers. Moreover, the structure has been extensively investigated through deriving an equivalent circuit model and studying surface current distributions. Experimental validation of the fabricated prototype has also confirmed the potential use of resistive film based broadband absorbers in several applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Three-dimensional (3D) treatment planning of patient undergoing radiotherapy uses complex and meticulous computational algorithms. These algorithms use 3D voxel data of the patient to calculate the radiation dose distribution and display it over the CT image dataset for treatment plan evaluation. Aims and Objective: The purpose of the present study is the development and implementation of radiobiological evaluation of the radiotherapy treatment plan incorporating the tissue-specific radiobiological parameters. Material and Method: An indigenous program was written in MATLAB® software (version 2011b of Mathworks Inc.) to extract the patient treatment plan data from DICOM-RT files which are exported from the treatment planning system. CT-, Structures- and Dose-Cube matrices are reconstructed from the exported patient plan data. BED and EQD2 based dose volume histograms (DVHs), colorwash and iso-effective dose curves were generated from the physical Dose-Cube using the linear-quadratic (LQ) formalism and tissue-specific radiobiological parameters (α/β). Results and Conclusion: BED-and EQD2-colorwash and iso-effective curves along with BED and EQD2 dose volume histograms provide superior radiobiological information as compared to those of physical doses. This study provides supplementary recipes of radiobiological doses along with the physical doses which are useful for the evaluation of complex radiotherapy treatment plan of the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the celebrity-brand association from a different perspective.Design/methodology/approach This study uses exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and binary logistic regression.Findings This study conceptualizes celebrity-owned brands (COBs). It statistically validates the complimentary and synergistic effects of six inter-related but distinct factors that are likely to influence a buyer’s willingness to pay price premium for COBs.Originality/value This study makes a novel attempt by analysing the celebrity-brand relationship from a different perspective. The paper deviates from the traditional and widely researched linkage of a celebrity with a brand through endorsement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intravenous and peri-articular magnesium has been shown to reduce perioperative analgesic consumption. With this background, subcutaneous infiltration was hypothesized to potentiate the subcutaneous infiltration of local anaesthetic agent. Aim: To comparatively evaluate the efficacy of magnesium sulphate as an adjunct to ropivacaine in local infiltration for postoperative pain following lower segment cesarean section. Materials and Methods: Sixty parturients undergoing cesarean delivery were randomized to either group A or B in a double blinded manner. After uterine and muscle closure but before skin closure, Group A was administered local subcutaneous wound infiltration of Injection (Inj) ropivacaine 0.75% 150 milligram (mg) or 20 millilitres(ml) whereas, group B patients were given a local subcutaneous wound infiltration of Inj magnesium sulphate 750 mg (1.5 ml of Inj 50% Magnesium sulphate) added to Inj ropivacaine 0.75% (18.5 ml) making a total volume of 20 ml. In postoperative period, Heart rate (HR), Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP),Visual Analogue Score (VAS), supplemental analgesic consumption and timing of each subsequent analgesic was noted for the initial 24 hours. Results: There was no difference in the timings for the requirement of first Intravenous (IV) rescue analgesic among both the groups (p=0.279). However, the need for 2nd and 3rd doses of rescue analgesics was significantly later in group B and the difference was statistically significant with p-value of 0.034 and 0.031 respectively. The number of patients who were administered 2nd, 3rd and 4th doses of rescue analgesics was significantly greater in group A as compared to group B. None of the patients in group B needed more than 4 doses of rescue analgesia while in group A, 5 patients were administered a rescue analgesic for 5th time. The cumulative analgesic requirement in the initial 24 hours was also greater in group A as compared to group B and the difference was statistically significant (p =0.01). The incidence of adverse effects was similar in both the groups. Conclusion: Subcutaneous infiltration of magnesium along with local anaesthetic prolongs the analgesic efficacy of local anaesthetic and is not associated with any significant adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Depression is one of the most under diagnosed and under reported in primary health settings. Depression is highly common and according to WHO by 2020, it would be the second-most prevalent condition worldwide. Physical illnesses and biopsychosocial factors are common determinants of depression. Aims & Objectives: 1. To estimate prevalence of depression, 2. To determine associated factors among college going students. Material & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among college going students. Half of the colleges were selected randomly and sample size was distributed on the basis of probability proportional to size (PPS). Assigned number of students from each college was selected by simple random sampling. Sample size of 1300 was calculated using formula (n) = ( Z1-α )2 P (100 -P ) / ε2. General Health Questionnaire (12 items) was used to diagnose psychiatric morbidity and those with this were administered Becks Depression Inventory II (21 items) scale for assessing the prevalence and level of depression. Both the scales were translated in local language and self-administered. The data was compiled and analyzed using Epi Info™. Results: A total of 1300 students were enrolled, psychiatric morbidity was present in 35% and prevalence of depression was 33%. Mild depression was found in 87% of the students with depression. Depression was higher among those aged >25 years, females, residing in nuclear families and studying science stream. Conclusion: Family support and adequate treatment are most important pillars of management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was initiated to understand the composition of factors that could help leverage price premium to e-tailers. One of the lesser-researched factor viz. return policy was investigated to understand if it positively influenced buyer's willingness to pay price premium to e-tailers. The research was based on the empirical investigation of 347 respondents and hypothesis was validated using structural equation modeling and binary logistic regression. The research contributes toward 'what' and 'how' domain of academic contribution and opens up the way for 'when' domain through contextual contributions in the future scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a methodology for voxel-based evaluation of two phase sequential radiotherapy treatment plans having conventional dose scheme in the first phase and subsequent hypofractionation dose scheme in the second phase based upon different priority [planning target volume (PTV), clinical target volume (CTV) and organs at risk (OAR)] of display modes. A case of carcinoma prostate was selected for demonstration. Varian Eclipse treatment planning system (TPS) was used for contouring and planning. In the first phase, a dose of 52 Gy in 26 fractions to the PTV and in the second phase, a dose of 19.5 Gy in 3 fractions to the PTV Boost was planned on the same CT data set. Both the plans (Phase 1 and Phase 2) were exported and processed using "Voxel-based radiobiology display (VRb) tool". Plan Sum for Biologically effective dose (BED)-Cube and equivalent dose of 2Gy (EQD2)-Cube was reconstructed using a combination of linear quadratic (LQ) and linear quadratic-linear (LQ-L) radiobiological models. Tumor control probability (TCP) and normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) for different target volumes and organs were also calculated using EQD2-volume histograms of the Plan Sum. An in-house graphical user interface (GUI) is developed to present the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the multiphase treatment plans with different display modes and dose regimens. The voxel based TCP obtained for the combined target volume was 90.56%. NTCP for the bladder and rectum was calculated from the Plan Sum histograms and found to be 0.33% and ~0.0% respectively. The proposed methodology using the VRb tool offers superior plan evaluation for multiphase sequential radiotherapy treatment plans over the existing methods. PTV, CTV and OAR priority based display modes in VRb tool offers better understanding of radiobiological evaluation of sequential radiotherapy treatment plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]