The time complexity of self-assembly.

Time efficiency of self-assembly is crucial for many biological processes. Moreover, with the advances of nanotechnology, time efficiency in artificial self-assembly becomes ever more important. While structural determinants and the final assembly yield are increasingly well understood, kinetic aspects concerning the time efficiency, however, remain much more elusive. In computer science, the concept of time complexity is used to characterize the efficiency of an algorithm and describes how the algorithm's runtime depends on the size of the input data. Here we characterize the time complexity of nonequilibrium self-assembly processes by exploring how the time required to realize a certain, substantial yield of a given target structure scales with its size. We identify distinct classes of assembly scenarios, i.e., "algorithms" to accomplish this task, and show that they exhibit drastically different degrees of complexity. Our analysis enables us to identify optimal control strategies for nonequilibrium self-assembly processes. Furthermore, we suggest an efficient irreversible scheme for the artificial self-assembly of nanostructures, which complements the state-of-the-art approach using reversible binding reactions and requires no fine-tuning of binding energies.

Evaluation of scanning resolution, detector choice and detector orientation to be used for accurate and time-efficient commissioning of a 6MV clinical linear accelerator.

The present study is aimed at exploring different scanning parameters, detectors and their orientations for time-efficient and accurate commissioning of a 6 MV clinical linear accelerator (LINAC). Beam profiles and percentage depth dose (PDD) curves were measured with a PTW dosimetry diode, a PTW Semiflex and a PinPoint ion chamber in different orientations. To acquire beam data, equidistant (step size of 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm and 3 mm) and fanline (step size of 2-0.5 mm, 2-1 mm, 3-0.5 mm and 3-1 mm) scanning modes were employed and data measurement time was recorded. Scan time per measurement point was also varied (0.2 s, 0.5 s and 1.0 s) to investigate its effect on the accuracy and acquisition time of beam data. Accuracy of the measured data was analyzed on the basis of the variation between measured data and data modeled by a treatment planning system. Beam profiles (particularly in penumbra region) were found to be sensitive to variation in scanning resolution and showed an improved accuracy with decrease in step size, while PDD curves were affected negligibly. The accuracy of beam data obtained with the PTW dosimetry diode and the PinPoint ion chamber was higher than those obtained with the PTW Semiflex ion chamber for small fields (2 × 2 cm2 and 3 × 3 cm2). However, the response of the PTW diode and the PinPoint ion chamber was significantly indifferent in these fields. Furthermore, axial orientation of the PTW Semiflex ion chamber improved accuracy of profiles and PDDs as compared to radial orientation, while such a difference was not significant for the PinPoint ion chamber. It is concluded that a scan time of 0.2 s/point with a fanline scanning resolution of 2-1 mm for beam profiles and 3 mm for PDDs are most favorable in terms of accuracy and time efficiency. For small fields (2 × 2 cm2 and 3 × 3 cm2), a PinPoint ion chamber in radial orientation or a dosimetry diode in axial orientation are recommended for both beam profiles and PDDs. If a PinPoint ion chamber and a PTW dosimetry diode are not available, a Semiflex ion chamber in axial orientation may be used for small fields.

Sensitivity considerations on denoising series of spectra by singular value decomposition.

When acquiring series of spectra ( T 1 , T 2 , CP buildup curves, etc.) on samples with poor SNR, we are usually faced with choosing between taking a few points with a large number of scans to maximize the SNR or more points with a smaller number of scans to maximize the information content. In this Letter, we show how low-rank decomposition can be used to denoise a series of spectra, reducing the trade-off between the number of scans and the number of experiments.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence Assistance on Chest CT Interpretation Times: A Prospective Randomized Study.

BACKGROUND. Deep learning-based convolutional neural networks have enabled major advances in development of artificial intelligence (AI) software applications. Modern AI applications offer comprehensive multiorgan evaluation. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article was to evaluate the impact of an automated AI platform integrated into clinical workflow for chest CT interpretation on radiologists' interpretation times when evaluated in a real-world clinical setting. METHODS. In this prospective single-center study, a commercial AI software solution was integrated into clinical workflow for chest CT interpretation. The software provided automated analysis of cardiac, pulmonary, and musculoskeletal findings, including labeling, segmenting, and measuring normal structures as well as detecting, labeling, and measuring abnormalities. AI-annotated images and autogenerated summary results were stored in the PACS and available to interpreting radiologists. A total of 390 patients (204 women, 186 men; mean age, 62.8 ± 13.3 [SD] years) who underwent out-patient chest CT between January 19, 2021, and January 28, 2021, were included. Scans were randomized using 1:1 allocation between AI-assisted and non-AI-assisted arms and were clinically interpreted by one of three cardiothoracic radiologists (65 scans per arm per radiologist; total of 195 scans per arm) who recorded interpretation times using a stopwatch. Findings were categorized according to review of report impressions. Interpretation times were compared between arms. RESULTS. Mean interpretation times were significantly shorter in the AI-assisted than in the non-AI-assisted arm for all three readers (289 ± 89 vs 344 ± 129 seconds, p < .001; 449 ± 110 vs 649 ± 82 seconds, p < .001; 281 ± 114 vs 348 ± 93 seconds, p = .01) and for readers combined (328 ± 122 vs 421 ± 175 seconds, p < .001). For readers combined, the mean difference was 93 seconds (95% CI, 63-123 seconds), corresponding with a 22.1% reduction in the AI-assisted arm. Mean interpretation time was also shorter in the AI-assisted arm compared with the non-AI-assisted arm for contrast-enhanced scans (83 seconds), noncontrast scans (104 seconds), negative scans (84 seconds), positive scans without significant new findings (117 seconds), and positive scans with significant new findings (92 seconds). CONCLUSION. Cardiothoracic radiologists exhibited a 22.1% reduction in chest CT interpretations times when they had access to results from an automated AI support platform during real-world clinical practice. CLINICAL IMPACT. Integration of the AI support platform into clinical workflow improved radiologist efficiency.

Effect of training on time efficiency and marginal adaptation of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing crowns among dental students.

INTRODUCTION: The computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology has revolutionised dentistry at present. An operator's skills can affect the overall clinical duration and marginal accuracy of the prosthesis fabricated through this workflow. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of CAD/CAM hands-on training compared with that of a self-instructional video on the performance of dental students in digital impression and fabrication of a CAD/CAM crown. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 30 undergraduate dental students were shown a CEREC demonstration video. Each operator then captured a digital impression using the intra-oral scanner, and a crown was subsequently milled. All participants underwent a training course before repeating the process. Marginal discrepancy for each crown on its abutment tooth was measured before and after training using a stereomicroscope and was evaluated using Wilcoxon signed rank test. The duration taken for the process was recorded before and after training and evaluated using paired t-test. RESULTS: The overall mean ±standard deviation marginal adaptation for the CEREC crowns was 78.15 ± 42.83 µm before training and 52.41 ± 17.12 µm after training. The Wilcoxon signed rank test found significant difference (p < .05) in terms of marginal adaptation of crowns fabricated before and after training. Paired t-tests showed that the time efficiency after training significantly improved compared with that before training. CONCLUSIONS: Training with guided feedback is crucial to improve the time efficiency of making a digital impression and marginal adaptation of fixed prosthesis using the CAD/CAM technology.

Intraoral scanning reduces procedure time and improves patient comfort in fixed prosthodontics and implant dentistry: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: The primary aim of this systematic review was to evaluate whether intraoral scanning (IOS) is able to reduce working time and improve patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) compared to conventional impression (CI) techniques, taking into account the size of the scanned area. The secondary aim was to verify the effectiveness of IOS procedures based on available prosthodontic outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Electronic and manual literature searches were performed to collect evidence concerning the outcomes of IOS and CI performed during the treatment of partially and complete edentulous patients for tooth- or implant-supported restorations. Qualitative analysis was conducted to evaluate the time efficiency and PROMs produced by the two different techniques. Clinical prosthodontic outcomes were analyzed among the included studies when available. RESULTS: Seventeen studies (9 randomized controlled trials and 8 prospective clinical studies) were selected for qualitative synthesis. The 17 included studies provided data from 430 IOS and 370 CI performed in 437 patients. A total of 7 different IOS systems and their various updated versions were used for digital impressions. The results demonstrated that IOS was overall faster than CI independent of whether quadrant or complete-arch scanning was utilized, regardless of the nature of the restoration (tooth or implant supported). IOS was generally preferred over CI regardless of the size of the scanned area and nature of the restoration (tooth- or implant-supported). Similar prosthodontic outcomes were reported for workflows implementing CI and IOS. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this systematic review, IOS is faster than CI, independent of whether a quadrant or complete arch scan is conducted. IOS can improve the patient experience measured by overall preference and comfort and is able to provide reliable prosthodontic outcomes. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Reduced procedure working time associated with the use of IOS can improve clinical efficiency and the patient experience during impression procedures. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are an essential component of evidence-based dental practice as they allow the evaluation of therapeutic modalities from the perspective of the patient. IOS is generally preferred by patients over conventional impressions.

The dentist will scan you now: The next generation of digital-savvy graduates.

INTRODUCTION: Undergraduate dental curriculum consisting of digital tools is essential in today's era of modern dentistry. The aim of this study was to evaluate final-year undergraduate dental students' perception of using intraoral scanners and the feasibility of increasing exposure to intraoral scanners in their undergraduate programme. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty students volunteered to complete one maxillary conventional and optical impression (TRIOS 3, 3Shape A/S). Questionnaires were used to assess their familiarity, perceived confidence levels, difficulties and user-friendliness of each technique using a visual analogue scale prior to and after experiencing each impression technique. RESULTS: Students felt more familiar with conventional (C) than digital (D) impressions (P = .00). Their pre-confidence level was also higher with the conventional method (C: 80.9 ± 15.5; D: 39.6 ± 25.5); however, the post-confidence level significantly increased for the digital impression technique (P = .00). Participants perceived conventional technique to be easier (P = .02) and faster than optical impressions (P = .03). User-friendliness of the intraoral scanner scored moderate (67.7 ± 22.9). The difference in the mean total working time was not significant (P = .05). Forty per cent of participants indicated that they preferred using the digital impression technique. CONCLUSIONS: Although final-year undergraduate students still perceived the conventional impression technique to be easier and faster than digital scanning, there was a significant increase in the level of confidence by this cohort after only one occasion of clinical optical impressions. Undergraduate dental students are ready to uptake new technology, and it should be strongly considered to incorporate more digital scanning during their training.

Implementation of disease-based standard order sets in emergency department of tertiary care hospital, Pakistan - a novel approach for enhancing patient care.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of disease-based standard order sets in reducing time of order entry, order processing and medication dispensation in emergency department of a tertiary care hospital. METHOD: The pilot study was conducted as part of a retrospective clinical audit using pre- and post-intervention design comprising data from July to September 2013 of the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital in Karachi. Data collected related to the reduction in medicine order entry, processing and dispensing time of eight common emergency conditions with standard order set. Subsequently, standard medication orders for the selected medical conditions were developed together with physicians of emergency and other specialties. Post-intervention data was collected and the two data sets were compared using SPSS version 23.0. RESULTS: Mean medication order entry and processing time from the physician end reduced from 67.7±22.7 seconds to 20.5±7.1 seconds. Mean medication order processing and dispensing time at pharmacist end reduced from 70.0±22.4 to 20.6±8.8 seconds. The difference between pre- and post intervention values was significant (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of disease-based standard order set significantly improved efficiency.

Time efficiency and quality of outcomes in a model-free digital workflow using digital impression immediately after implant placement: A double-blind self-controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical and laboratory time efficiency and quality of outcomes for posterior single implant crowns by means of a model-free digital workflow using digital impressions immediately after implant placement. METHODS: Forty patients missing a single posterior tooth received implant therapy. For within-subject comparison, digital impressions were taken immediately after implant placement and conventional impressions after implant healing. Two monolithic zirconia crowns were fabricated using a laboratory-based CAD-CAM system. One crown was produced from the immediate digital impression and a model-free digital workflow (test group), and the second crown was produced from the conventional impression and a hybrid workflow (control group). Clinical and laboratory time was recorded. Quality of outcomes was evaluated double-blinded. A paired-sample t test was applied for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The total mean chairside time (impression and delivery) was 23.2 min (95%CI 22.2, 24.3) in the test group and 25.7 min (95%CI 24.4, 26.9) in the control group (p = 0.013). Significantly less laboratory time was needed in the model-free digital workflow (13.6 min, 95%CI 11.5, 15.6) as compared to the model-based hybrid workflow (29.9 min, 95%CI 25.7, 34.2) (p < 0.05). At crown delivery, 4/40 (test) and 12/40 (control) had no need of chairside adjustments, and 6/40 (test) and 5/40 (control) implant crowns were in need of additional laboratory interventions. CONCLUSION: The fabrication of posterior single implant crowns using digital impressions taken immediately after implant placement and a model-free, laboratory-based digital workflow was more time efficient and resulted in similar quality of outcomes as a hybrid workflow using conventional impressions.

What is the best method to determine excessive arm volume in patients with breast cancer-related lymphoedema in clinical practice? Reliability, time efficiency and clinical feasibility of five different methods.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the reliability, time efficiency and clinical feasibility of five commonly used methods for assessing excessive arm volume in patients with breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL). DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium. SUBJECTS: 30 participants with unilateral BCRL. METHODS: Excessive arm volume was determined by five different methods: traditional volumetry with overflow, volumetry without overflow, inverse volumetry, optoelectronic volumetry and calculated volume based on circumference measurements. To investigate intra- and inter-rater reliability, measurements were performed twice by the same assessor and once by a different assessor. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard errors of the measurement (SEMs) and systematic changes between the means were calculated. To determine time efficiency, the mean setup time, execution time and total time were examined for each method. Furthermore, 12 limitations regarding clinical feasibility were listed and scored for each method. Finally, an overall ranking score was determined between the methods. RESULTS: Mean age was 65 (±8) years and mean body mass index was 28 (±4) kg/m2. Intra- and inter-rater reliability ranged between strong and very strong. Calculated arm volume based on circumferences (mean excessive arm volume: assessor A: 477 (±367) mL; assessor B: 470 (±367) mL; assessor A (second time): 493 (±362) mL) showed the highest intra- and inter-rater ICCs of .987 and .984, respectively. Optoelectronic volumetry was the fastest method, representing a mean total time of 1 minute and 43 (±26) seconds for performing a bilateral measurement. The least limitations were reported on the calculated volume based on the circumference method (3 out of 12 limitations). CONCLUSION: Calculated volume based on arm circumferences is the best measurement method for evaluating excessive arm volume over time in terms of reliability, low error rate, low cost, few limitations and the time spent.

Clinical quality and efficiency of monolithic glass ceramic crowns in the posterior area: digital compared with conventional workflows.

PURPOSE: The aim of this clinical study was to test whether or not digital workflows for the fabrication of crowns render different clinical outcomes from the conventional pathway with respect to (1) crown quality, and (2) time efficiency. MATERIAL AND METHODS: For each of the 10 patients in need of one tooth-supported crown, five monolithic crowns were produced out of lithium disilicate reinforced glass ceramic. Four different optical impression and associated computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems were used for crown fabrication (digital workflows): (1) Lava C.O.S. scanner and Lava C.O.S. and CARES CAD software, centralized CAM (group L); (2) Cadent iTero scanner, CARES CAD software and centralized CAM (group iT); (3) Cerec Bluecam, Cerec Connect CAD software, followed by laboratory-based CAM (group CiL); and (4) centralized CAM (group CiD). The conventional crown (group K) was fabricated based on a conventional silicone impression followed by a conventional wax-up and heat press technique. The examiners were blinded and evaluated the crowns clinically at the bisque-bake stage (initial try-in), and subsequently after finalization by a dental technician (final try-in). For the assessment of crown quality, modified United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria were used. Treatment times were recorded for clinical evaluation and adjustment. The quality ratings were analyzed descriptively. For both the continuous and ordinal outcomes, the non-parametric paired Wilcoxon test was applied, together with an appropriate Bonferroni correction to evaluate the differences between treatment groups. The results of the statistical analysis were interpreted globally at the significance level P = 0.05. RESULTS: The clinical evaluation during the initial and final try-ins demonstrated similar clinical outcome measures for crowns generated with the four digital workflows and the conventional workflow. No statistically significant differences of crown quality in any state were found between groups (P > 0.005). The total clinical treatment times measured were: 456 ± 240 s for L; 655 ± 374 s for iT; 783 ± 403 s for CiL; 556 ± 285 s for CiD; and 833 ± 451 s for K. No statistically significant differences in treatment times were found between the groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of the present study, the monolithic ceramic crowns resulting from the four different CAD/CAM systems did not differ from the conventionally produced crowns with respect to the clinical quality rating and the treatment time efficiency.

Mobile electronic versus paper case report forms in clinical trials: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Regulations, study design complexity and amounts of collected and shared data in clinical trials render efficient data handling procedures inevitable. Recent research suggests that electronic data capture can be key in this context but evidence is insufficient. This randomized controlled parallel group study tested the hypothesis that time efficiency is superior when electronic (eCRF) instead of paper case report forms (pCRF) are used for data collection. We additionally investigated predictors of time saving effects and data integrity. METHODS: This study was conducted on top of a clinical weight loss trial performed at a clinical research facility over six months. All study nurses and patients participating in the clinical trial were eligible to participate and randomly allocated to enter cross-sectional data obtained during routine visits either through pCRF or eCRF. A balanced randomization list was generated before enrolment commenced. 90 and 30 records were gathered for the time that 27 patients and 2 study nurses required to report 2025 and 2037 field values, respectively. The primary hypothesis, that eCRF use is faster than pCRF use, was tested by a two-tailed t-test. Analysis of variance and covariance were used to evaluate predictors of entry performance. Data integrity was evaluated by descriptive statistics. RESULTS: All randomized patients were included in the study (eCRF group n = 13, pCRF group n = 14). eCRF, as compared to pCRF, data collection was associated with significant time savings  across all conditions (8.29 ± 5.15 min vs. 10.54 ± 6.98 min, p = .047). This effect was not defined by participant type, i.e. patients or study nurses (F(1,112) = .15, p = .699), CRF length (F(2,112) = .49, p = .609) or patient age (Beta = .09, p = .534). Additional 5.16 ± 2.83 min per CRF were saved with eCRFs due to data transcription redundancy when patients answered questionnaires directly in eCRFs. Data integrity was superior in the eCRF condition (0 versus 3 data entry errors). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to prove in direct comparison that using eCRFs instead of pCRFs increases time efficiency of data collection in clinical trials, irrespective of item quantity or patient age, and improves data quality. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials NCT02649907 .

Time efficiency, difficulty, and operator's preference comparing digital and conventional implant impressions: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to analyze implant impression techniques applying intraoral scanning (IOS) and the conventional method according to time efficiency, difficulty, and operator's preference. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred participants (n = 100) with diverse levels of dental experience were included and randomly assigned to Group A performing digital scanning (TRIOS Pod) first or Group B conducting conventional impression (open tray with elastomer) first, while the second method was performed consecutively. A customized maxillary model with a bone-level-type implant in the right canine position (FDI-position 13) was mounted on a phantom training unit realizing a standardized situation for all participants. Outcome parameter was time efficiency, and potential influence of clinical experience, operator's perception of level of difficulty, applicability of each method, and subjective preferences were analyzed with Wilcoxon -Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests. RESULTS: Mean total work time varied between 5.01 ± 1.56 min (students) and 4.53 ± 1.34 min (dentists) for IOS, and between 12.03 ± 2.00 min (students) and 10.09 ± 1.15 min (dentists) for conventional impressions with significant differences between the two methods. Neither assignment to Group A or B, nor gender nor number of impression-taking procedures did influence working time. Difficulty and applicability of IOS was perceived more favorable compared to conventional impressions, and effectiveness of IOS was rated better by the majority of students (88%) and dentists (64%). While 76% of the students preferred IOS, 48% of the dentists were favoring conventional impressions, and 26% each IOS and either technique. CONCLUSIONS: For single-implant sites, the quadrant-like intraoral scanning (IOS) was more time efficient than the conventional full-arch impression technique in a phantom head simulating standardized optimal conditions. A high level of acceptance for IOS was observed among students and dentists.

Intraoral scanners in dentistry: a review of the current literature.

BACKGROUND: Intraoral scanners (IOS) are devices for capturing direct optical impressions in dentistry. The purpose of this narrative review on the use of IOS was to: (1) identify the advantages/disadvantages of using optical impressions compared to conventional impressions; (2) investigate if optical impressions are as accurate as conventional impressions; (3) evaluate the differences between the IOS currently available commercially; (4) determine the current clinical applications/limitations in the use of IOS. METHODS: Electronic database searches were performed using specific keywords and MeSH terms. The searches were confined to full-text articles written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals between January 2007 and June 2017. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-two studies were included in the present review; among them, 20 were previous literature reviews, 78 were in vivo clinical studies (6 randomized controlled/crossover trials, 31 controlled/comparative studies; 24 cohort studies/case series; 17 case reports) and 34 were in vitro comparative studies. CONCLUSIONS: Optical impressions reduce patient discomfort; IOS are time-efficient and simplify clinical procedures for the dentist, eliminating plaster models and allowing better communication with the dental technician and with patients; however, with IOS, it can be difficult to detect deep margin lines in prepared teeth and/or in case of bleeding, there is a learning curve, and there are purchasing and managing costs. The current IOS are sufficiently accurate for capturing impressions for fabricating a whole series of prosthetic restorations (inlays/onlays, copings and frameworks, single crowns and fixed partial dentures) on both natural teeth and implants; in addition, they can be used for smile design, and to fabricate posts and cores, removable partial prostheses and obturators. The literature to date does not support the use of IOS in long-span restorations with natural teeth or implants. Finally, IOS can be integrated in implant dentistry for guided surgery and in orthodontics for fabricating aligners and custom-made devices.

[Analysis on dosage form theory and current application situation of traditional Chinese medicine pill].

Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) pill, the most representative and successive dosage form, is called as one of the four classical TCM dosage forms. "Pills could keep the lasting and lenitive therapeutic efficacy for a long period" is the most classical dosage form theory, showing a guidance significance in making recipe, preparations and clinic application. In this article, we would elucidate the inheritance and development significance of TCM pills in three key points, including dosage form theory, pharmaceutical preparation technology and clinic usage based on the pharmaceutics connotation of this theory. From this, it can provide the basis for researches on pills mechanism, material basis and mode of action in clinical application.

Time-efficiency analysis of the treatment with monolithic implant crowns in a digital workflow: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the randomized controlled trial was to analyze time-efficiency of a treatment with implant crowns made of monolithic lithium disilicate (LS2) plus titanium base vs. porcelain fuse to zirconium dioxide (ZrO2 ) in a digital workflow. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty study participants were included for single-tooth replacement in premolar and molar sites. Baseline was the start of the prosthetic treatment. All patients received transocclusal screw-retained implant reconstructions on a soft tissue level-type implant. The 3D implant position was captured with intraoral optical scanning (IOS). After randomization, ten patients were restored with CAD-/CAM-produced monolithic LS2-crowns bonded to prefabricated titanium abutments without any physical models (test), and ten patients with CAD-/CAM-fabricated ZrO2 -suprastructures and hand-layered ceramic veneering with milled master models (control). Every single clinical and laboratory work step was timed in minutes and then analyzed for time-efficiency with Wilcoxon Rank Sum Tests. Direct costs were assessed for laboratory fees for first line production in Swiss Francs (CHF). RESULTS: Two clinical appointments were necessary for IOS and seating of all implant crowns. The mean total production time, as the sum of clinical plus laboratory work steps, was significantly different, resulting in 75.3 min (SD ± 2.1) for test and 156.6 min (SD ± 4.6) for control [P = 0.0001]. Analysis for clinical treatment sessions showed a significantly shorter mean chair time for the complete digital workflow of 20.8 min (SD ± 0.3) compared to 24.1 min (SD ± 1.1) [P = 0.001]. Even more obvious were the results for the mean laboratory work time with a significant reduction of 54.5 min (SD ± 4.9) vs. 132.5 min (SD ± 8.7), respectively [P = 0.0001]. CONCLUSION: The test workflow was more time-efficient than the controls for implant-supported crowns; notably, laboratory fabrication steps could be effectively shortened with the digital process of monolithic LS2 plus titanium base resulting in more than 30% reduced overall treatment costs.

Time-Efficient High-Rate Data Flooding in One-Dimensional Acoustic Underwater Sensor Networks.

Because underwater communication environments have poor characteristics, such as severe attenuation, large propagation delays and narrow bandwidths, data is normally transmitted at low rates through acoustic waves. On the other hand, as high traffic has recently been required in diverse areas, high rate transmission has become necessary. In this paper, transmission/reception timing schemes that maximize the time axis use efficiency to improve the resource efficiency for high rate transmission are proposed. The excellence of the proposed scheme is identified by examining the power distributions by node, rate bounds, power levels depending on the rates and number of nodes, and network split gains through mathematical analysis and numerical results. In addition, the simulation results show that the proposed scheme outperforms the existing packet train method.

Telemedicine for Preoperative Assessment, Surgical Appointments, and Preoperative Education in Gynecological Day Surgery: An Prospective Observational Analysis.

Background: This study investigates the differences in the cost, time, pre-operative education and patient satisfaction levels of patients requiring a second hysteroscopic surgery using a full-service model of remote preoperative assessment, surgical appointments, and preoperative education. Methods: Forty-one patients who were proficient in the use of telemedicine platforms, planned to undergo a second hysteroscopic surgery, and selected either telemedicine (N=21) or face-to-face (N=20) models for their preoperative assessments, surgical appointments, and preoperative education were included. The data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test and Fisher's exact test. Results: No significant demographic differences were observed between patients who used telemedicine and those who did not. The telemedicine group demonstrated significantly lower median travel time (40 min vs 205 min, P < 0.01), time spent in hospital (60 min vs 155 min, P < 0.01), meal time (0 min vs 60 min, P < 0.01), and total time spent (108 min vs 415 min, P < 0.01). Similarly, the telemedicine group had significantly lower median travel expenses (40 yuan vs 300 yuan, P < 0.01) and meal expenses (0 yuan vs 135 yuan, P < 0.01), and overall, total expenses (255 yuan vs 837 yuan, P < 0.01). 95.2% of the telemedicine group completely understood the preoperative education, compared to 100% who completely understood in the face-to-face group (P = 1.00). All patients in the telemedicine group were very satisfied compared to 80% in the face-to-face group (P = 1.00). Conclusion: Telemedicine may be a feasible and advantageous method for preoperative assessment, surgical appointments, and preoperative education in gynecological day surgery. The application of telemedicine has demonstrated notable time and cost efficiency with high patient satisfaction levels. Future research should explore the full potential of telemedicine in this setting and for other surgical procedures.

A fully automated artificial intelligence-driven software for planning of transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

BACKGROUND: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is increasingly performed for the treatment of aortic stenosis. Computed tomography (CT) analysis is essential for pre-procedural planning. Currently available software packages for TAVR planning require substantial human interaction. We describe development and validation of an artificial intelligence (AI) powered software to automatically rend anatomical measurements and other information required for TAVR planning and implantation. METHODS: Automated measurements from 100 CTs were compared to measurements from three expert clinicians and TAVR operators using commercially available software packages. Correlation coefficients and mean differences were calculated to assess precision and accuracy. RESULTS: AI-generated annular measurements had excellent agreements with manual measurements by expert operators yielding correlation coefficients of 0.97 for both perimeter and area. There was no relevant bias with a mean difference of -0.07 mm and - 1.4 mm2 for perimeter and area, respectively. For the ascending aorta measured 5 cm above the annular plane, correlation coefficient was 0.95 and mean difference was 1.4 mm. Instruction for use-based sizing yielded agreement with the effective implant size in 87-88 % of patients for self-expanding valves (perimeter-based sizing) and in 88 % for balloon-expandable valves (area-based sizing). CONCLUSIONS: A fully automated software enables accurate and precise anatomical segmentation and measurements required for TAVR planning without human interaction and with high reliability.