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Rationale and Objectives Although metrics-based systems may incentivize academic output, no prior studies have evaluated the impact on publication metrics in academic radiology. This study presents a metrics-based system of awarding research protected time, and retrospectively evaluates its 9-year impact on publication productivity and impact factor. Materials and Methods Based on a metrics-based algorithm to award department funded Research Protected Time (RPT), metrics pre-RPT (2003–2009) and during the RPT period (2010–2018) from an academic radiology department were retrospectively analyzed to test the hypothesis that the RPT program resulted in higher publication productivity and journal impact factor at the departmental level and for faculty members receiving the award. Comparison was made between (1) pre-RPT and RPT periods and (2) during the RPT period, between RPT and non-RPT faculty members, for annual publication productivity normalized to faculty count (Student's t test) and median impact factor (Wilcoxon rank sum test). Results For the evaluation period of 2003–2018, 724 unique publications were identified: 15% (107/724) pre-RPT period and 85% (617/724) RPT period. Normalized annual publication productivity was higher during the RPT period compared to the Pre-RPT period (1.2 vs. 0.3, p = 0.002), and within the RPT period, higher among faculty who received RPT vs. non-RPT faculty (3.5 vs. 0.4, p = 0.002). Median impact factor was higher during the RPT period compared to pre-RPT period (2.843 vs. 2.322, p = 0.044), and within the RPT period, higher in RPT vs. non-RPT faculty (3.016 vs. 2.346, p Conclusion The implementation of a metrics-based system of funded, research protected time, was associated with increased publication productivity and increased impact factor.

The objective of this study was to derive derived concentration guideline levels (DCGLs) reflecting the site-specific characteristics of KRR-1&2. A total of 7 nuclides (H-3, C-14, Co-60, Sr-90, Cs-137, Eu-152, and Eu-154) were selected for DCGLs derivation. Radiation dose at the sites was evaluated with RESRAD-ONSITE program. The dose contribution due to direct external exposure was the highest during the entire evaluation period. Ingestion had the second effect. The DCGLs of Co-60 was derived to be 0.051 Bq/g, and DCGLs of Cs-137 was 0.193 Bq/g. The DCGLs of H-3 showed the highest value of 129 Bq/g. The ratio of DCGLs derived by applying site-specific values and default values ranged from 0.27 to 19.6. For six nuclides excluding H-3, KRR-1&2 sites and the overseas NPP sites showed similar DCGLs. H-3 showed large differences in DCGLs from this study and overseas NPPs. The large difference resulted from input parameter values applied to the sites. In conclusion, it is critical to apply site-specific parameter values reflecting the site characteristics to derive DCGLs for decommissioned site clearance. The result of this study can be used as a reference for nuclide selection and DCGLs derivation reflecting the site characteristics when decommissioning nuclear facilities, including nuclear power plants in Korea.

Background/purpose Few studies have comprehensively assessed long-term patient-reported outcomes for overdentures supported by two immediate implants. The purpose of the study was to evaluate patient-reported outcomes of immediately loaded two-implant-supported overdentures retained by ball attachments over a 5-year evaluation period. Material and methods Nineteen participants with edentulous mandibles were provided with immediately loaded two-unsplinted-implant-supported overdentures retained by ball attachments. The participants completed the Japanese version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)-EDENT-19 and the Patient's Denture Assessment (PDA). Additionally, patient satisfaction was measured by a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS). Measurements were performed at baseline, and at 1 and 5 years following implant surgery. Results Seventeen participants and 14 participants were evaluated at the 1-year and 5-year assessment, respectively. Considering the OHIP-EDENT-19, there was a significant decrease in the total (p = 0.046), “functional limitation” (p = 0.021), and “physical disability” (p = 0.034) scores at 1 year and the total (p = 0.045) and “physical disability” (p = 0.024) scores at 5 years following surgery, compared to the baseline scores. Considering the PDA, there was a significant increase in the “function” (p = 0.038) and “lower denture” (p = 0.003) scores at 1 year and the “function” (p = 0.032), “lower denture” (p = 0.008), and “esthetic and speech” (p = 0.043) scores at 5 years following surgery, compared to the baseline scores. Patient satisfaction at 1 year following surgery was significantly greater than that at baseline (p = 0.005). Conclusion Immediately loaded two-unsplinted-implant-supported overdentures retained by ball attachments improved the oral health-related quality of life and self-assessment of dentures by the patients up to 5 years following implant surgery.

INTRODUCTION A challenge of minimally invasive esthetic procedures (eg, injectables and threads) is managing adverse events (AEs), such as post-procedural bruising. Implementation of post-procedural camouflage therapy may minimize the appearance of bruising and mitigate AEs. AIMS A physician and patient user experience program was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a concealer for the cosmetic camouflage of post-procedural bruising. METHODS Thirty female patients with a mean age of 42.03 years participated in the program. Physicians and patients completed various questionnaires regarding the safety and efficacy of the investigational product (Dermablend™ Professional Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer) at three timepoints: Visit 1 (Day 0); Visit 2 (Day 3); and Visit 3 (Day 14 ± 3 days). RESULTS All patients presented with mild-to-moderate bruising following treatment with either esthetic injectables or threads. On average, users required 1.55 (SD: 0.72) coats to sufficiently cover their bruise(s). After application of the concealer, 78.18% of users displayed "clear skin with no signs of erythema" and 21.82% displayed "almost clear skin, with slight redness." No physician-reported AEs related to product use were reported throughout the evaluation period. No allergic reactions upon application nor intolerance to the product after prolonged use (ie, up to 14 days ± 3 days) was observed. Throughout the duration of use, 98.81% of subjects were at least slightly satisfied with results. At Visits 1 and 2, 100% of physicians were at least slightly satisfied with results. CONCLUSION Cosmetic concealer use can ameliorate the post-procedural experience for patients presenting with mild-to-moderate bruising.

Today, online social networks (OSNs) constitute a major part of our lives and have, to a large extent, replaced traditional media for direct communication, as well as information dissemination and gathering. In the vast amount of posts that get published in OSNs each day, some posts do not draw any attention while others catch on, become viral, and develop as so-called buzzes. Buzzes are defined through their characteristics of immediacy, unexpectedness, and intensity. The early detection of buzzes is of vital importance for companies, public figures, institutions, or political parties—e.g., for the pricing of profitable advertising placement or the development of an appropriate social media strategy. While previous researchers developed systems for detecting trending topics, mainly characterized by their intensity, this is the first study to implement a buzz detection system (BDS). Based on almost 120,000 manually classified Facebook posts, we estimated and trained models for the BDS by applying various classification techniques. Our results highlight that, among other predictors, the number of previously passive users who then engage in the buzz post, as well as the number of likes given to the comments, are important. Evaluating the BDS over a five-month evaluation period, we found that these two classifiers perform best and detected over 97% of the buzzes.

Sexual assault services cost Americans more than $420,000,000 annually for medical and mental health services. Personal costs include lost wages, lost quality of life, and victim assistance. Public costs include police work, legal adjudication, and sanctioning (penalties). In 2014, an estimated 284,350 adult women were sexually assaulted in the United States. Sexual assault is significantly underreported by those who are assaulted. Upon determination that sexual assault services in a clinic setting were nonexistent, services for sexual assault were developed and implemented in a clinic setting in a Midwestern state. The purpose of clinic services was to provide support, assessment, and forensic examinations for adult women and to evaluate the number of women receiving services. A quality improvement approach was used to determine how and when sexually assault victims received sexual assault services. Persons who have been sexually assaulted vary in gender and age; however, for the purpose of the pilot project, implementation initially included services to women over 18 years of age. Although the number of female patients receiving care was low in the inaugural clinic during the implementation and evaluation period, the services provision remains a viable option for women who experienced sexual assault in a community that previously had no access to clinic services.

The scope of this study is to compare the sealing capability of experimental tricalcium phosphate cement versus Biodentine and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate used for furcation perforation repair. Methodology: Ninety six extracted human molars were perforated in furcation area and unsystematically divided into four groups relative to the furcation repair material into: experimental tricalcium phosphate (n=30), Biodentine (n=30), MTA (n=30) while the fourth group of samples was left unrepaired as control (n=6). Each group was further subdivided into three subgroups according the evaluation period as 1 week, 1 month and 3 months. Samples were subjected to dye penetration test and values calculated using a stereomicroscope with magnification (25X). Kruskal Wallis test was utilized to show the difference between more than two groups in non-related samples. Results: Biodentine group showed statistically significant least dye absorbance; statistically there wasn’t a significant difference between the Experimental material and MTA Conclusion: The experimental tricalcium phosphate provides an easy handling and quick setting of repair material with comparable sealing ability to MTA.

Introduction The College of American Pathologists mandates that telepathology services are included in laboratory quality management programs. The aim of this study was to assess a telecytology quality assurance (QA) process that we implemented in 2015. Materials and methods Each month, a cytotechnologist randomly selected 3 telecytology fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cases from each cytopathologist on the FNA service that month. Data were recorded in a monthly worksheet and included onsite telecytology adequacy, final adequacy, concordance, onsite operator, cytopathologist, and reason for discrepancy, if present. The worksheet was reviewed monthly, discordant cases were re-examined, and feedback to cytologists was provided. For this study, worksheets from October 2015 to December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Results The QA program captured 488 cases, representing 25% of total cases that utilized telecytology during the evaluation period (n = 1983). The telecytology onsite assessment was concordant with the final cytologic assessment in 84% (410 of 488) of cases. The majority of discordant cases (72 of 78, 92%) were the result of an “Inadequate" onsite telecytology assessment, but a final diagnosis was able to be rendered; 92% of these cases were attributed to diagnostic material being present in cytologic preparations not available during the onsite assessment. Nine telecytology onsite interpretation errors were identified, of which 7 were provided by cytopathologists with less than 2 years of experience. Conclusions Most telecytology cases with onsite assessment errors were evaluated by cytopathologists with less than 2 years of practice experience; therefore, careful monitoring of new staff should be considered when developing a telecytology QA program.

Objective The aim of this multicenter, randomized controlled trial was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of 6-mm or 11-mm implants, placed in the posterior maxilla and mandible, during a 5-year follow-up period.Materials and methods Ninety-five patients with adequate bone height for 11-mm implants, were randomly allocated to a 6-mm group (test group with short implants) or an 11-mm group (control group with standard-length implants). Two or three implants of the same length were placed in each patient and after 6 weeks loaded with a splinted provisional restoration. This was followed by definitive splinted restoration 6 months after implant placement. Clinical and radiographic parameters, including the occurrence of complications were recorded.Results A total of 49 patients were enrolled to receive 6-mm implants (n = 108) and 46 patients to receive 11-mm implants (n = 101). Three implants (two of 6 mm and one of 11 mm in length) were lost before loading and one 6-mm implant after 15 months of function, and one 11-mm implant was lost during the first year of function. The 5-year survival rates were 96.0% and 98.9% in the 6-mm and 11-mm group, respectively. The mean marginal bone level changes 5 years post-loading were 0.01 +/- 0.45 mm (bone gain) in the 6-mm group and -0.12 +/- 0.93 mm (bone loss) in the 11-mm group (p = .7670). Clinical parameters, including plaque, bleeding on probing and pocket probing depth were not significantly different between the groups, and also technical complications were low.Conclusion The clinical and radiographic outcomes of 6-mm short and 11-mm standard-length implants were not different during a 5-year evaluation period.

The author discusses publications of Polish academic staff in the field of book studies and information studies that appeared between 2013 and 2016. Thesis/Objective – The author aims to indicate the most popular academic journals, publications and conferences in the field under discussion and define their significance for the incoming evaluation period (2021). That may allow for some preliminary conclusions on how the academic policy has been implemented in the field of book studies and information studies. Research methods – The article is based on the data collected from the surveys answered by the units evaluated in 2017. The analysis enabled the author to extract information on publications of the academic staff affiliated to the field being discussed. Data on journals, publications and conferences were ordered with ranking method. Data recorded in varying formats were harmonized for the article purposes. Results/Conclusions – The analysis shows that a significant number of most valuable publications in the field under research will become unimportant in the incoming evaluation process. The author emphasizes that the academic staff have to adjust to new evaluation rules in order to enhance the value of their publications. He stresses that the analyzed publications are only partially representative for the overall output of the discipline under discussion.

Con el objetivo de identificar la densidad de siembra del sombrío estratificado con el que se obtuviera el mayor rendimiento del café Variedad Castillo®, se realizó una investigación en la finca Villa Sofía, ubicada en la vereda Capellanía, municipio de Charalá, departamento de Santander, a 6° 18´ N y 73° 06´W y altitud de 1.480 m. Las especies de sombra evaluadas fueron Erythrina fusca, Inga densiflora, Inga edulis, Pseudosamanea saman y Albizia carbonaria, establecidas a densidades de siembra de 70, 123 y 278 árboles por hectárea. De los resultados, bajo las condiciones ambientales presentadas durante la época de las evaluaciones y del manejo agronómico de los sistemas de producción, se obtuvo que la mejor respuesta en producción de café (22.382 kg ha-1 de café pergamino seco), se presentó con el componente arbóreo de I. densiflora, P. saman y A. carbonaria, con una distribución espacial a 6,0 x 6,0 m. La producción bajo las especies evaluadas y distribuidas espacialmente a 9,0 x 9,0 m fue similar (12.687 kg ha-1 de café pergamino seco). Con el componente arbóreo establecido a 12,0 x 12,0 m, no hubo respuesta del café.

The environment control of broiler houses must be done adequately to provide good thermal conditions to broilers without wasting energy. The objective of this study was to characterize the thermal environment in two mechanically ventilated broiler houses with a negative pressure ventilation system, one with a cellulose pad evaporative cooling system and the other with misting nozzles for evaporative cooling. The experiment was conducted in Ervália-MG during winter, spring, and summer. The thermal environment was characterized based on the relationship between the temperature observed inside the broiler houses and the temperatures recommended for the thermal comfort of birds of different ages. The recorded data were evaluated using descriptive statistics, and the spatial variation of the average temperature data recorded during the growth phase in both broiler houses was evaluated graphically using contour graphs. During the brooding phase, the temperatures recorded in both broiler houses were above the recommended values (27-30 °C; 24-27 °C; and 21-24 °C, for the 1st; 2nd and 3rd weeks of bird life respectively) during the entire evaluation period. In the growout phase, it was found that during winter and spring, the interior temperature was within the recommended range (15–27 °C), however, in summer, there were periods when the interior temperature was above the comfort range of birds.

Purpose The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the risk of development of gingival recession (GR) as a result of the combined orthodontic-orthognathic approach. Materials and Methods The PubMed, Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov , and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Included articles mentioned gingival parameters in their materials and methods sections; specifically, they evaluated GR, which was measured before and after the surgical procedure. Study parameters such as methodology, evaluation period, sample characteristics, and follow-up were extracted by 2 authors independently. Results In total, 133 relevant articles were identified from the databases; after screening and full-text analysis, 9 studies were included in this systematic review. Meta-analysis could not be conducted because of considerable heterogeneity in methods. The incidence of GR in the range of 0.5 to 3.0 mm as a significant clinical finding after orthognathic surgery showed statistically significant differences in all included articles. Among patients with GR, the mean age was 23.0 to 29.5 years and the mandibular incisors were the most common site. However, no case of recession greater than 3.0 mm was associated with surgery. Conclusions On the basis of the findings of this review, GR of approximately 0.5 to 3.0 mm is a common finding after the combined orthodontic-orthognathic approach. Although periodontal damage up to 3 mm can be observed as an isolated finding in mainly the incisors, true recession is not associated with orthognathic surgery in general.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Vitamin D (Vit D) supplementation to topical corticosteroids in the treatment of oral lichen planus (OLP) among postmenopausal women. Thirty post-menopaus‌al women, their ages ranging between 45-65 years, diagnosed with any form of Oral lichen planus and presenting with serum 25 Hydroxyvitamin D levels below 30ng/ ml were randomly allocated into one of two groups (15 patients each) and treated as follows: The control group I, received topical cortisone alone; The experimental group II, who were treated with topical cortisone supplemented with Vit D every week for one month. Serum level of TNF-α, clinical and pain scores were carried out at the time of the initial visit and at 2, 4, and 6 weeks. Results showed improvement in clinical score. Both treatment modalities resulted in a statistically significant decrease in pain score, and TNF- α (P 0.05) at any evaluation period for the pain score, while TNF- α showed statistically significant differences at 4 weeks only in favor to group II (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, it can be concluded that Vit D supplementation to conventional therapy can help in treating OLP among post-menopausal women. Attention must be given to educate the women in this critical age to pay attention to Vit D deficiency to avoid such serious diseases.

The objective of this study was evaluate the interacting effects on absorption and translocation of 14C-mesotrione and 14C-atrazine mixture for morning glory (Ipomoea hederifolia) control. The mixture of atrazine + mesotrione was shown to be additive and synergistic by visual assessment in relation to expected control, depending on the dose and evaluation period. Absorption of 14C-atrazine alone (62.5%) and as a mixture (60%) in morning glory was higher than in the treatments with 14C-mesotrione alone (42.8%) and as a mixture (46.6%). However, 14C-mesotrione alone showed a higher translocation (8.6%) than 14C-mesotrione + atrazine (2.5%), indicating that the mixture decreased the translocation of this herbicide.

More than one herbicide application is usually necessary to manage glyphosate-resistant sourgrass in advanced stages of development efficiently during off-season fallow periods. The objective of this study was to determine the best interval between two sequential applications to control sourgrass, based on the number of days and tiller-height after the first treatment. Two experiments were conducted based on these criteria. Experiment 1 consisted of one application of glyphosate + clethodim (1140 ae ha-1 + 108 g ha-1) followed by glyphosate + clethodim or paraquat (400 g ai ha-1) at an interval of 10, 17, 24, 31, 28, or 45 days. Experiment 2 was conducted with the same herbicide treatments, but using the tiller-height as the criteria for the second application, which were 2-5, 6-10, 11-20, 21-30, and >30 cm. None of the treatments resulted in total sourgrass control during the evaluation period. Overall, treatments with glyphosate + clethodim in the second application were more efficient than paraquat. The most effective interval between sequential applications of glyphosate + clethodim was observed at 17 to 24 days. For paraquat, the best interval for the second application was 6-10 days. The most effective performances based on the tiller-height were found at 6-20 cm tall for glyphosate + clethodim and 6-10 cm tall for paraquat. Para o manejo de capim-amargoso resistente ao glyphosate nos períodos de entressafra, existe a necessidade de mais de uma aplicação de herbicidas para o controle satisfatório. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o intervalo em número de dias e altura do rebrote entre aplicações sequenciais no controle de capim-amargoso perenizado. Foram realizados dois experimentos, sendo o experimento 1 consistuido pela aplicação sequencial de glyphosate + clethodim (1140 + 108 g ha-1) ou paraquat (400 g i.a. ha-1) em intervalos de 10, 17, 24, 31, 38 ou 45 dias após a aplicação de glyphosate + clethodim (1140 + 108 g ha-1). O experimento 2 foi formado pela aplicação dos mesmos tratamentos herbicidas, porém considerando a altura de rebrote como critério para a segunda aplicação, sendo 2-5, 6-10, 11-20, 21-30 ou >30 cm. Nenhum tratamento resultou em controle total das plantas durante o período de avaliação dos experimentos. De forma geral, melhores resultados são obtidos com a segunda aplicação de glyphosate + clethodim em relação ao paraquat. A segunda aplicação com glyphosate + clethodim deve ser realizada entre 17 e 24 dias após a primeira aplicação, enquanto o paraquat deve ser aplicado entre 6 e 10 dias após a primeira aplicação. Ao considerar o tamanho do rebrote das plantas na segunda aplicação, o ideal é de 6-20 cm para glyphosate + clethodim e de 6-10 cm para paraquat. &nbsp

We simulate the VIXs implied in GARCH option pricing models incorporating the variance and jump premiums. By estimating the parameters through a joint estimation as well as a risk-neutral estimation, we compare the implied VIXs with the CBOE VIX in terms of their error size and unbiasedness. Our empirical results show that the model incorporating both premiums can generate the implied VIX that is more consistent with the CBOE VIX: The errors of the model with both premiums are smaller than those of the other models, and the biasedness towards the CBOE VIX is also moderated. However, there is still a limit to explain the dynamics of the CBOE VIX and VIX options sufficiently even in the most flexible model. This finding is consistent with that of Bardgett et al. (2019) who show that S&P 500 and VIX derivatives contain conflicting information on variance. For robustness, we conduct an out-of-sample analysis by updating the estimation period and the evaluation period year-by-year, which also supports the result of an in-sample analysis.

Fundo: Avaliar as alterações na altura óssea apical / ganho ósseo por até 8 anos após a colocação do implante combinada com elevação simultânea do seio interno do assoalho do seio (ISFE) sem o uso de enxerto. Métodos: 217 implantes foram colocados em combinação com ISFE sem enxerto e integrados com sucesso na maxila posterior de 138 pacientes. As radiografias após a cirurgia ao longo de um período de avaliação de até 8 anos foram analisadas. Alterações na altura óssea apical e marginal relacionadas aos implantes foram medidas. As diferenças na altura óssea ao longo do período do estudo foram avaliadas pelo teste de Wilcoxon. Para identificar possíveis fatores de influência no ganho ósseo apical e perda óssea marginal, foram realizadas seleções de regressão linear regressiva e modelos de regressão linear mista. Resultados: Nos aspectos apicais dos implantes, observou-se ganho ósseo vertical médio significativo de 2,4 mm (mesial) e 2,6 mm (distal) após 6 meses ( p

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare clinical retention values of metal and poly ether-ether Ketone secondary copings for rigid telescopic retained implant supported mandibular overdentures Material and methods: Eight edentulous patients (4 males and 4 females) who were unsatisfied with the retention of mandibular dentures were randomly assigned equally into 2 groups then received 4 implants in the interforaminal region of the mandible. Group I received telescopic overdentures with metal secondary coping (control group), Group II received telescopic overdentures with Poly ether-ether secondary copings (PEEK) (test group). Measurement of clinical retention forces (in Newton) were performed by digital force meter device attached to a special device that ensure application of vertical dislodging perpendicular to the patient’s occlusal plan. Measurements were performed at time of overdenture insertion, 3 months and 6 months after insertion. Results: For all times of measurements, PEEK secondary copings were associated with significant higher clinical retention values than metal secondary copings. For metal and PEEK groups, retention values at base line were the highest values followed by retention values after 3 months and the least retention forces were noted after 6 months. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study caused by small patient sample and short evaluation period, PEEK secondary copings for telescopic attachments of mandibular implant overdentures is recommended than cobalt chromium secondary copings as it was associated with increased clinical retention values even after 6 months of clinical use.

Developing of non-metallic catalyst to replace metal catalyst is a meaningful and challenging direction. In this work, the non-metallic catalyst was synthetized successfully by loading ionic liquid onto the silica surface, which was applied for the gas-phase dehydrochlorination of 1, 1, 2, 2-tetrachloroethane. The 12%TPPC/SiO2 (wt%) showed the best results with the conversion of 1, 1, 2, 2-tetrachloroethane reaching 100%. The selectivity of 1, 1, 2-trichloroethylene was 100%, and no deactivation was found during the evaluation period. The catalytic mechanism was investigated and possible reaction route was given, which was a reference for fabricating and design of solid base catalyst.

The current standard of care for severe burns includes autografting; however, there is scarce knowledge regarding the long-term economic burden associated with thermal burns and inpatient autografting. The objective of this study was to characterize healthcare resource utilization, treatment patterns, and cost of care for thermal burn patients in two large privately insured populations in the United States who underwent inpatient autografting between 01/01/2011 and 06/30/2016. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, healthcare resource utilization, and total cost were examined during baseline (one year before the initial hospitalization with autografting) and two-year evaluation period. There was a substantial economic burden on thermal burn patients who received inpatient autografts (HIRD® database [HIRD]: N=371, mean age=39.6 years, male=67.1%; MarketScan® database [MarketScan]: N=698, mean age=38.2 years, male=63.3%) in the year 1 evaluation period (HIRD: mean=$184,805; MarketScan: mean=$155,272), which was mainly driven by the initial hospitalization with autografting (HIRD: mean=$157,384 and MarketScan: mean=$131,470). The percentage of patients with burn-related healthcare resource utilization and average burn-related costs were considerably reduced in the year 2 evaluation period (HIRD: mean=$3020; MarketScan: mean=$1990). Consistent with previous studies, mean length of hospital stay (days) and mean total medical costs generally increased as the percentage of total body surface area burned increased.

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T02:33:20Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-04-25 This study evaluated the bone microstrain, displacement, and stress distribution according to the surgical technique (conventional or Socket-shield) and evaluation period (immediately after implant installation or after healing). Each condition was modeled for the finite element analysis, totaling four groups, with a morse-taper implant and a cemented prosthesis. The maximum displacement, von Mises stress, and bone microstrain yielded higher values during the immediate stage, without a difference between Socket-shield and conventional treatments. The use of the Socket-shield technique does not negatively impact the biomechanical behavior of an implant-supported prosthesis immediately after healing from the implant installation. Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics Institute of Science and Technology São Paulo State University (UNESP) Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics Institute of Science and Technology São Paulo State University (UNESP)

Con el objetivo de caracterizar el rendimiento de cinco variedades de alfalfa en Montecillos, Texcoco, estado de México. Se establecieron en el año 2004 praderas con las variedades Cuf-101, Moapa, Oaxaca y Valenciana, en las que se determinó durante cuatro años el rendimiento de materia seca anual (RMSA), rendimiento estacional (RMSE), tasa de acumulación de forraje (TAF) y relación hoja: tallo. Los datos se analizaron por el procedimiento GLM de SAS y comparación de medias por la prueba de Tukey. Se analizaron los cambios por estación, variedad y años y sus interacciones. Se encontraron diferencias (p< 0.05) en rendimiento RMSA, MSE, TAF y relación hoja: tallo entre variedades, estaciones y años. Durante el primer año se observó mayor RMSA, y disminuyo hasta 57% al final del periodo de evaluación. La variedad Oaxaca mantuvo mayor producción al final de la evaluación y Moapa la de menor. En el RMSE se observó que en verano tuvo el mayor rendimiento y en invierno disminuye cerca de 50%, tendencia que se mantuvo durante el periodo de evaluación, esta diferencia va disminuyendo con el paso de los años, con una acumulación de MS más constante en el año. La relación hoja: tallo es mayor en el segundo año donde las variedades Cuf-101 y Valenciana registraron la mayor relación en la estación de invierno. En conclusión, el genotipo de la variedad de alfalfa influye en el rendimiento de materia seca por estación, año y periodo de producción, donde la estación de mayor producción de MS es verano.

Firms often evaluate subordinate performance relative to a difficult but attainable goal set at the beginning of the evaluation period. For many, a mechanism exists by which these goals may be adjusted downward at the end of the period to account for an uncontrollable negative event. We examine, experimentally, how the knowledge that a downward ex post discretionary goal adjustment is possible affects subordinates' expectancy of reward and performance in periods where a negative uncontrollable event occurs, and whether high identity, defined as high perceived social connectedness between the superior and subordinate, moderates this effect. We find that high superior-subordinate identity can offset the otherwise negative impact of the potential for downward ex post discretionary goal adjustment on subordinates' expectancy of reward and performance. Thus, creating an organizational culture that promotes identity between superiors and subordinates can complement incentive-based controls in motivating subordinate performance. JEL Classifications: C91; J33; M41; M52. Data Availability: Please contact the authors.

Background: Clinical pathways are important tools to achieve better quality of care and to reduce the costs for healthcare system. The total hip replacement (THR) is among the most expensive procedures in health system and the number of these operations has greatly increased in the past decade in the Republic of Srpska. Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine how the implementation of a clinical pathway for THR can influence the length of stay and postoperative complications in hospitals in the Republic of Srpska. Methods: This prospective and comparative study was performed on 2,485 patients who underwent the THR over a 3-year-period in 2012 (prior to the introduction of the clinical pathways, baseline), in 2013 (first evaluation period) and in 2014 (second evaluation period), one and two years after its implementation, respectively. The study was conducted in 10 hospitals in the Republic of Srpska, where the effects of the clinical pathways on length of stay and postoperative complications after THR were measured. Results: The introduction of THR clinical pathways significantly decreased the length of stay in hospital from 14.53 ± 7.03 days measured at baseline, to 12.79 ± 4.81 days and 11.19 ± 4.11 days at first and second evaluation period, respectively. At the same time, the number of early postoperative complications such as death and venous thromboembolism significantly decreased in both groups, while the number of dislocations, as parameter of late complications, decreased just after the second evaluation period. For all other complications, such as revision procedures, infections and periprosthetic fracture, there were no statistical differences after the implementation of clinical pathways. Conclusion: The introduction of clinical pathways was successful in reducing the length of stay in hospitals as well as the postoperative complications after THR.

We evaluated glaucoma patients for the efficacy, safety and satisfaction associated with switching from brinzolamide 1% and brimonidine 0.1% to a fixed combination of brinzolamide 1% and brimonidine 0.1%. A total of 22 glaucoma patients were enrolled and completed this prospective, nonrandomized study that evaluated patients who underwent treatment with at least brinzolamide 1% and brimonidine 0.1%. Patients on brinzolamide 1% and brimonidine 0.1% were switched to a brinzolamide/brimonidine fixed-combination ophthalmic suspension (BBFC). Evaluations of intraocular pressure (IOP), superficial punctate keratopathy (SPK) and conjunctival hyperemia were conducted at baseline and at 4 and 12 weeks. The Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication-9 (TSQM-9) was utilized to assess the change in treatment satisfaction. At baseline and at 4 and 12 weeks, the IOP was 15.0 ± 4.1, 14.8 ± 4.1 and 14.8 ± 4.1 mmHg, respectively. There were no significant differences observed at any of the time points. However, the SPK score significantly decreased at 12 weeks, even though no significant differences were observed for the conjunctival hyperemia incidence at any of the time points. After switching from brinzolamide 1% and brimonidine 0.1% to BBFC, there was a significant increase in the TSQM-9 score for convenience and global satisfaction. Both an improvement in the degree of SPK and an increase in treatment satisfaction occurred after switching from brinzolamide 1% and brimonidine 0.1% to BBFC, even though there were sustained IOP values throughout the 12-week evaluation period.

Compliance with a mandibular advancement device is important for the optimal treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Recent advances in information and communication technology-based monitoring and intervention for chronic diseases have enabled continuous monitoring and personalized management. Self-evaluation and self-regulation through objective monitoring and feedback may improve compliance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of information and communication technology-based remote monitoring and feedback services, using a smartphone application, on the objective compliance with a mandibular advancement device in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Forty individuals who were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by polysomnography were randomly assigned to groups A and B. During an initial 6-week evaluation period, the mandibular advancement device-wearing time was monitored with the smartphone application in group B, but not in group A. The two groups then switched the monitoring procedures during the second 6-week period (the smartphone application was then used by group B, but not by group A). If no input data were indicated on the cloud server of the smartphone application during the monitored period, push notifications were provided twice daily. Objective compliance, monitored by a micro-recorder within the mandibular advancement device, was noted and compared based on whether the monitoring service was provided. The number of mandibular advancement device-wearing days was significantly higher in the monitored period than in the unmonitored period. The mandibular advancement device-wearing time did not differ significantly between the two groups. In conclusion, information and communication technology-based remote monitoring and feedback services demonstrated a potential to increase the objective measures of compliance with mandibular advancement devices.

Marshallese and Latino communities in Benton and Washington counties, Arkansas, were disproportionately affected by COVID-19. We evaluated the effectiveness of a comprehensive community-based intervention to reduce COVID-19 disparities in these communities. We examined all laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases in the 2 counties reported from April 6, 2020, through December 28, 2020. A 2-sample serial t test for rate change was used to evaluate changes in case rates before and after implementation of the intervention. After implementation, the proportions of cases among Marshallese and Latino residents declined substantially and began to align more closely with the proportions of these 2 populations in the 2 counties. Infection rates remained lower throughout the evaluation period, and weekly incidence also approximated Marshallese and Latino population proportions. Leveraging community partnerships and tailoring activities to specific communities can successfully reduce disparities in incidence among populations at high-risk for COVID-19 .

Abstract.According to current recommendations, the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is established by a single-night sleep study. However, recent reports suggest a remarkable night-to-night variability of OSA severity. We report on a 76-year-old man with suspected OSA who underwent six sleep studies within 13 months. Sleep studies demonstrated a remarkable variability of respiratory events based on an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) varying between 1.1 and 43.1/h. There were no changes in body weight, alcohol intake, medication or comorbidities during the evaluation period. Due to diagnostic uncertainty and missing subjective benefit, the initially implemented CPAP therapy was stopped after one year of therapy. Considering night-to-night variability of OSA severity, single-night sleep studies might not be accurate enough in order to reliably diagnose or exclude OSA.

The present study was carried out in the Guano Canton, San José de Chocón community. The objective was to evaluate the productive behavior of guinea pigs when totorilla flour (Scirpus rigidus) is used in their daily feeding. A randomized design was used in a two-factor combinatorial arrangement, for Factor A (flour levels) and Factor B (sex), with four treatments and four repetitions of each versus a control treatment. The treatments were: T0 (0%), T1 (5%), T2 (10%), T3 (15%), and T4 (20%). The evaluation period was 75 days, with an initial weight of 0.41 kg (21 days old). No significant difference was found (p < 0.05) for the final weights (PF), weight gain (GP), total food consumption (CTA), or feed conversion (CA). However, significant differences were found in the weight of the carcass (PC) (p ≤ 0.01); the highest weight was observed in T2 (10% of totorilla flour) with 0.80 kg ± 0.02, and in T0; T3 presented lower results. Significant differences were also found for performance of the carcass (RC) (p ≤ 0.01); the higher values were observed in the T4 and T1 treatments with 77.63% and 74.63%, respectively; a lower value was observed in T3 with 63.82%. In terms of the sex factor variable, male animals presented better results than female ones. 20% totorilla flour corresponded to USD 1.32 profitability. Based on the results, we can conclude that adding totorilla flour to guinea pig feed does not affect their productive behavior and increases the quality of the livestock. For cuyicultural production, the implementation of totorilla flour in guinea pig feed provides a new food alternative and lowers costs. Keywords: technology and agricultural sciences, animal science, totorilla, Scirpus rigidus, totorilla flour, feeding in guinea pigs, nutritional block. RESUMEN El presente estudio se realizó en la comunidad de San José de Chocón, cantón Guano. El objetivo fue evaluar el comportamiento productivo de los cuyes cuando en su alimentación diaria se utiliza harina de totorilla (Scirpus rigidus) en la elaboración de bloques nutricionales. Se utilizó un Diseño Completamente al Azar en arreglo combinatorio de dos factores, para el Factor A (niveles de harina), Factor B (sexo), con 4 tratamientos y 4 repeticiones cada uno frente un tratamiento control. Los tratamientos fueron T0 (0%), T1 (5%), T2 (10%), T3 (15%), T4 (20%), en un periodo de evaluación de 75 días, con un peso inicial de 0,41 kg (21 días de edad). Los resultados no mostraron diferencias significativas (p < 0,05) en las variables, en pesos finales (PF), ganancia de peso (GP), consumo total de alimento (CTA), conversión alimenticia (CA). Sin embargo, se encontró diferencias altamente significativas en peso a la canal (PC), (p ≤ 0,01), siendo el mayor peso para el T2 (10% de harina de totorilla) con 0,80 kg ± 0,02, y T0; T3 presentaron resultados más bajos. Rendimiento a la canal (RC) se reportan diferencias altamente significativas (p ≤ 0,01), obteniendo los valores más altos para los tratamientos T4; T1; con 77,63; 74,63 (%) y se observó un menor valor en el T3 con 63,82%. Para el factor sexo los animales machos presentan mejor resultado a diferencia de las hembras. Se consiguió con el empleo de 20% de harina de totorilla con 1,32 USD rentabilidad. Concluyendo que al adicionar harina de totorilla en la alimentación de cuyes no afecta el comportamiento productivo y aumenta la calidad del semoviente. Para la producción cuyícolas la implementación de harina de totorilla en la alimentación de cobayos permitirá tener nueva alternativa alimenticia y abaratar costos. Palabras clave: tecnología y ciencias agropecuarias, zootecnia, Totorilla (Scirpus rigidus), harina de totorilla, alimentación en cuyes, bloque nutricional.

Background: Although numerous studies have assessed physical activity during pregnancy and relationships with infant outcomes, such as birthweight, few have evaluated sedentary behavior. Our objective was to evaluate sedentary behavior across pregnancy and relationships with infant birthweight in a sociodemographically diverse sample. Methods: We measured device-assessed sedentary behavior and physical activity over three days at 16–18, 24–26, and 32–34 weeks gestation and infant birthweight from medical records among 71 participants. We used linear regression to assess relationships between sedentary behavior at each evaluation period with birthweight-for-gestational age Z-scores (BW-for-GA). Results: There were no linear relationships between sedentary behavior and BW-for-GA at any evaluation period. We observed a modest curvilinear relationship between sedentary behavior at 16–18 weeks and BW-for-GA (R2 = 0.073, p = 0.021). Low and high levels of sedentary behavior predicted lower BW-for-GA. Multivariate models suggested that this relationship was independent of physical activity levels. Conclusions: Considering the high levels of sedentary behavior during pregnancy observed in many studies, even modest associations with birthweight merit further consideration. Relationships might not be evident later in pregnancy or if only linear relationships are considered. More detailed studies could help guide recommendations on sedentary behavior during pregnancy and the development of more comprehensive interventions.

RESUMEN Las evaluaciones clínica y radiológica son técnicas que se emplean para el diagnóstico de ruptura de ligamento cruzado anterior (RLCA) y para la evaluación posoperatoria de cirugías correctivas. Se planteó como objetivo describir los resultados posoperatorios de la técnica avance de tuberosidad tibial en caninos con RLCA utilizando hueso de origen bovino conservado en glicerina al 98%. Fueron intervenidos 5 caninos con la patología y sin cambios radiológicos marcados en las columnas óseas relacionadas. El heteroim-plante óseo se cortó a manera de cuña y, para determinar su tamaño, se tuvo en cuenta la medida prequirúrgica que necesitaba la rodilla para alcanzar el ángulo de avance de la cresta tibial. Seguidamente se fijó al receptor local con implantes metálicos (agujas de Kirschner y alambre ortopédico). En el posoperatorio, se evaluaron por 90 días signos clínicos como claudicación, dolor al movimiento flexión-extensión e inflamación, según la circunferencia de la rodilla, y se evaluó por 120 días el ángulo de avance tibial y la radiopacidad del heteroimplante con respecto al hueso circunvecino (tuberosidad tibial y tibia caudal). El estudio estableció que los parámetros clínicos y radiológicos tienen un efecto estadísticamente significativo; sin embargo, la evaluación del ángulo de avance tibial no tiene un efecto significativo entre el paciente y los días posquirúrgicos. Durante el periodo de evaluación el heteroimplante óseo bovino demostró ser efectivo para estabilizar una rodilla con RLCA en caninos. ABSTRACT The clinical and radiological evaluations are techniques used for the diagnosis of the anterior cruciate ligament rupture (LCAR) and the post-operatory assessment of corrective surgeries. It was proposed as an objective to describe the post-operatory results of the advance technique of tibial tuberosity in canines with LCAR using bovine bone conserved in 98% glycerin. Five canines were intervened and with no other radiological changed in the related bone columns. The bone heteroimplant was cut in a wedge-like manner and for its size it was taken into account the pre-operatory measurement that the knee needed to reach the advancement angle of the tibial crest. Next, the bone implant was fixated to the local receptor with metallic implants (Kirschner needles and orthopedic wire). In the post-op, the canines were evaluated for 90 days for clinical signs such as claudication, pain when flexing and extending and inflammation according to the knee circumference, and for 120 days the advancement angle of the tibia and the radiopacitry of the heteroimplant in relation to the surrounding bone. The trial established that the clinical and radiological parameters have a statistically significant effect; however, the evaluation of the tibial advancement angle does not have a significant effect between the patient and the post-operatory days. During the evaluation period, the heteroimplant bovine bone proved to be effective to stabilize the knee in canines with LCAR.

The fruit growing activity is of great importance for Brazilian agribusiness as the country is the third largest fruit producer in the world. Despite this notability, the fruit market presents obstacles especially related to international trade. Thus, the present study sought to determine the positioning and evolution of Brazil in the international fresh fruit market. Data used in the research were obtained from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) (1986 to 2017) and the World Bank (2018), using metrics of export flow, quantity and income of countries related to the main fruits exported by Brazil in the first quarter of 2020. Data were manipulated, transformed into figures and graphs for better visualization of information. The Brazilian position in the in the ranking of fresh fruit exports was not very dynamic during the evaluation period, being dependent on the demand from high-income European countries.

Cold storage conditions during long-term periods can be critical for the quality of gluten-free products. The objective of this work was to elaborate gluten-free pasta using cassava starch and study the influence of different storage conditions on the textural and sensorial properties of gluten-pasta compared to regular pasta. Samples were initially frozen at two different temperatures, -50 °C and -150 °C, and then stored for six months at -25 °C. Physicochemical and rheological analyses were used to characterize the pasta dough. Then microbiological, instrumental texture, and sensorial analysis were used to further characterize the pasta throughout the cold storage period of 6 months. The gluten-free pasta's nutritional composition showed low fat and protein content and high crude fiber, carbohydrates, and energy value content in relation to the gluten-containing pasta. Both kinds of pasta dough presented a pseudoplastic behavior; however, the wheat flour pasta presented lower apparent viscosity. The texture profile of frozen pasta during the evaluation period did not significantly vary when comparing the two freezing temperatures. Although the firmness, chewability, and cohesiveness parameters slightly decreased during the storage, losses of firmness were not detected by the judges at the sensorial analysis. Finally, cassava starch pasta had a high acceptance. According to the purchase intention research, the judges routinely consume gluten-free pasta, showing the high commercialization potential of the obtained product., Manihot esculenta crantz; Gluten-free pasta; Nutritional composition; Shelf life.

Commercial microwave link (MWL) used by mobile telecom operators for data transmission can provide hydro-meteorologically valid rainfall estimates according to studies in the past decade. For the first time, this study investigated a new method, the MSG technique, that uses Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) satellite data to improve MWL rainfall estimates. The investigation, conducted during daytime, used MSG optical (VIS0.6) and near IR (NIR1.6) data to estimate rain areas along a 15 GHz, 9.88 km MWL for classifying the MWL signal into wet–dry periods and estimate the baseline level. Additionally, the MSG technique estimated a new parameter, wet path length, representing the length of the MWL that was wet during wet periods. Finally, MWL rainfall intensity estimates from this new MSG and conventional techniques were compared to rain gauge estimates. The results show that the MSG technique is robust and can estimate gauge comparable rainfall estimates. The evaluation scores every three hours of RMSD, relative bias, and r2 based on the entire evaluation period results of the MSG technique were 2.61 mm h−1, 0.47, and 0.81, compared to 2.09 mm h−1, 0.04, and 0.84 of the conventional technique, respectively. For convective rain events with high intensity spatially varying rainfall, the results show that the MSG technique may approximate the actual mean rainfall estimates better than the conventional technique.

Background One of the most common ectoparasites in hedgehogs is Caparinia tripilis. Isoxazolines have recently shown to be a good treatment option for ectoparasites. The objective of this case report was to describe the treatment of a natural infestations from Caparinia tripilis in two African hedgehogs with sarolaner. Case description Two hedgehogs presented for Caparinia tripilis infestation. Sarolaner (2 mg/kg) was administered once orally and the response to treatment was evaluated on days 1, 7, 14, 30 and 60 by evaluating the lesions, the level of pruritus and the presence of parasites. From day 1 to 30 post-treatment, the severity of the lesions decreased in both hedgehogs and between day 30 and day 60 post-treatment, the lesions were not evident anymore. Presence of mites and pruritus decreased in both cases from day 1 to day 15, eventually disappeared, and remained so for 60 days of follow-up. Both hedgehogs gained weight during the evaluation period. Conclusions and case relevance Sarolaner as a standalone treatment effectively treated Caparinia tripilis infection without evidence of any adverse effects. Reports including a larger number of subjects are required in order to confirm safety and effectiveness of the drug.

The Internet Research Task Force (IRTF) Open Meeting at the IETF 101 in London had a rather curious point on the agenda: “Vision for a QIRG: Quantum Internet Research Group”. With the hype around quantum computing growing every year, it was only natural that some people would start asking whether the Internet could also benefit from the quantum revolution. And thus, that Open Meeting has resulted in the formation of the Quantum Internet Research Group (QIRG) in the IRTF. Following an evaluation period as a proposed Research Group, the QIRG has been approved as a full IRTF Research Group as of March of this year.

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-10T17:02:44Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-11-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2021-07-15T14:36:56Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0102-09352019000602009.pdf: 709403 bytes, checksum: e21f69b2db61bce50e47acf333943be6 (MD5) This study evaluated how changing the structure of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu pasture under different forage allowances (FA) of 4, 7, 10 and 13kg DM/100kg BW (body weight) affected animal behavior over a two-year evaluation period. The experiment was conducted as a randomized block design with three replications (paddock). Sward height, total forage, and stem mass were lower for pastures managed with lower FA. Lower leaf mass was observed for lower FA in the second year. In hand-plucked samples, leaf and stem percentages remained unchanged in the morning but leaf percentage increased while stems decreased in the afternoon. Permanence time decreased linearly with increasing FA. In turn, a quadratic effect was observed for displacement rate. The bite rate was similar among different FAs. The results demonstrate that FA varying between 7 and 10kg DM/100kg BW are more suitable to balance the amounts of leaves and stems in the sward. The studied FA levels do not limit forage availability. Permanence time decreases and displacement rate increases as FA increases. Autonoma, Aquidauana, MS, Brazil Univ Fed Lavras, Lavras, MG, Brazil Pecuaria & Desenvolvimento Rural, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil

Banana (Musa spp.) is cultivated throughout Brazil, with genotypes varying from region to region. Yellow Sigatoka disease (Pseudocercospora musae) is one of the most common foliar diseases of banana, causing severe losses when it is not properly managed. The objectives of this study were to evaluate banana genotypes for their reaction to yellow Sigatoka infection, and to perform an epidemiological study of this disease to have a better understanding of how it progresses under the environmental conditions of the Brazilian Cerrado. The reaction of 21 genotypes of banana to the infection by P. musae was evaluated in an experiment at Embrapa Cerrados (Planaltina, DF, Brazil), between August 2009 and January 2011, using a diagrammatic scale adapted from Stover, which ranged from 1 ( 51% leaf area showing symptoms). Assessments occurred every 15 days. At the end of the evaluation period the mean area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) for each rated material was calculated. Genotypes were selected by Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura Tropical and separated into four sets: Cavendish/Gros Michel, Pome-Pacovan, Pome-Prata-ana and Silk/Mysore. An epidemiological study of the disease progress curve for each genotype was carried out to evaluate which non-flexible model (Monomolecular, Logistic, Exponential or Gompertz) would have the best fit to the disease severity progress curve data. Each set revealed genotypes with significant resistance to Yellow-Sigatoka. In the Pome-Pacovan set, resistance was observed in genotypes ‘Vitoria’, ‘PV 94–01’, ‘Pacovan Ken’, ‘Japira ‘and ‘PV 79–34′; in the Silk/Mysore genotypes ‘Caipira’, ‘YB 42–03′, ‘YB 42–07′ and ‘BRS Tropical’; in the Pome-Prata-ana set, genotypes ‘PA 94–01′, ‘BRS Platina’ and ‘BRS Garantida’; and in the Cavendish/Gros Michel set the genotype ‘Bucaneiro’. The monomolecular model displayed the best fit, with consistently low mean square error (MSE) values for all banana genotypes presented in this study.

Context: Time from triage to patient care is usually evaluated, but time elapsed between the arrival of patient to emergency room (ER) and triage (pretriage) is not usually measured. Aims: The present study evaluates how the application of the queuing (or “waiting line”) theory in the triage process can generate effective strategies to improve patient care in the ER. Settings and Design: A “before-and-after” study was conducted in the ER of the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, a tertiary emergency care in Bogotá, Colombia. Subjects and Methods: The pretriage time was evaluated, and queuing theory was applied to the evaluation; according to the results, the number and distribution of the necessary nursing personnel were determined. Statistical Analysis Used: The change in waiting times was compared using a paired t-test. Results: In a first 7 months evaluation period, 89,898 patient visits were considered, with an average pretriage time of 22.15 min. According to the arrival distribution by hours and days of the week and considering the results of the calculations made using queuing theory, the number of nurses needed in the service per hour was determined for each day of the week, and schedule changes were implemented without increasing staff. In a second similar evaluation period, 94,497 patient visits were considered demonstrating a reduction of the pretriage time to 7.5 min (mean difference 14.64 min, 95% confidence interval 14.42–14.85, P < 0.001). Conclusions: The use of queuing theory in the planning of the daily personnel requirements in the triage area of ER can reduce the pretriage time by 65% without incurring additional cost.

Purpose The current study aimed to identify factors that distinguish between older (50+ years) hearing aid (HA) candidates who do and do not purchase HAs after having gone through an HA evaluation period (HAEP). Method Secondary data analysis of the SUpport PRogram trial was performed ( n = 267 older, 1st-time HA candidates). All SUpport PRogram participants started an HAEP shortly after study enrollment. Decision to purchase an HA by the end of the HAEP was the outcome of interest of the current study. Participants' baseline covariates (22 in total) were included as candidate predictors. Multivariable logistic regression modeling (backward selection and reclassification tables) was used. Results Of all candidate predictors, only pure-tone average (average of 1, 2, and 4 kHz) hearing loss emerged as a significant predictor (odds ratio = 1.03, 95% confidence interval [1.03, 1.17]). Model performance was weak (Nagelkerke R 2 = .04, area under the curve = 0.61). Conclusions These data suggest that, once HA candidates have decided to enter an HAEP, factors measured early in the help-seeking journey do not predict well who will and will not purchase an HA. Instead, factors that act during the HAEP may hold this predictive value. This should be examined.

Several subjective and direct methods have been used to measure and assess sleep patterns and problems among children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this paper, we describe the design, operating functions, and application of a computer-assisted system of sleep monitoring and data recording to improve measurement integrity of overnight care providers at a residential school. Descriptive and longitudinal evaluation conducted over a four-year evaluation period revealed that care providers averaged 91% implementation integrity with the system. A subsequent social validity assessment through survey questionnaire found that care providers uniformly rated the system as easy to learn, understand, and implement. We discuss the advantages of the system for sleep measurement and assessment of children and youth who have ASD and receive services in residential-care settings.

Good manufacturing practices (GMP) ensure that products are consistently produced and controlled according to appropriate quality standards. This study aimed to evaluate the GMP compliance of Brazilian medicine manufacturers over the past 3 years. The outcomes, deficiencies, and significance of these were collected from 485 inspections performed between 2015 and 2017. The nonconformities were arranged by sections of the GMP guidelines to demonstrate the main areas of deficiency. During the evaluation period, 61.4 % of inspected companies were classified as GMP ‘satisfactory’; 23.3 % were classified as ‘on hold’; and 15.3 % of inspections concluded that the company did not comply with GMP and resulted in an ‘unsatisfactory’ classification. At least one deficiency was found in 280 inspections (57.7 %). Critical deficiencies were found in 52 (10.7 %) inspections, major deficiencies were observed in 203 (41.9 %) inspections, and minor deficiencies were observed in 251 (51.8 %) inspections. The most common areas of deficiency were qualification and validation, documentation, and premises. The level of GMP compliance increased over the evaluation period. Updates or additional guidelines for the specific issues in which deficiencies are often identified might be useful to improve industry GMP compliance. The public disclosure of inspection outcomes and deficiencies may encourage the industry to comply with GMP and assist regulatory authorities in the maintenance of regulatory transparency. Knowledge of GMP noncompliance patterns and trends may allow the prioritization of inspections on high-risk areas and facilities, with the main goal of protecting the population from substandard medicines.