Delivery Schedule Research Articles

3D gamma analysis between treatment plans for nominally beam‐matched medical linear accelerators using PyMedPhys

AbstractBeam‐matched linear accelerators (linacs) enable flexible patient scheduling and efficient treatment delivery in the event of unexpected machine downtime. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of 3D gamma index as an additional metric beyond standard measurement‐based comparisons for more efficient evaluation of treatment plans between linacs with nominally matched beam models to ensure safe patient transfer. Seventeen 3D conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) plans and thirty‐six volumetric‐modulated radiation therapy (VMAT) plans for different disease sites were selected from the original linac. An in‐house script was used to automatically create new plans for the target linac and calculate dose using parameters of the original plans. 3D gamma analysis was performed to compare plan dose distributions between the target and original linacs using PyMedPhys. The 2%/2 mm gamma pass (γ≤1) rate was >99.99% for all 3DCRT plans. The median 1%/1 mm pass rate was 99.86% but two cases failed (< 90%). For VMAT plans, the median and minimum 2%/2 mm gamma pass rates were 99.43% and 93.81%. For 1%/1 mm, the median pass rate was 92.02% but ten cases failed. The results indicated using 3D gamma index can enhance the confidence and add an extra layer for safe patient transfer.

Design Guidelines for Improving Mobile Sensing Data Collection: Prospective Mixed Methods Study.

Machine learning models often use passively recorded sensor data streams as inputs to train machine learning models that predict outcomes captured through ecological momentary assessments (EMA). Despite the growth of mobile data collection, challenges in obtaining proper authorization to send notifications, receive background events, and perform background tasks persist. We investigated challenges faced by mobile sensing apps in real-world settings in order to develop design guidelines. For active data, we compared 2 prompting strategies: setup prompting, where the app requests authorization during its initial run, and contextual prompting, where authorization is requested when an event or notification occurs. Additionally, we evaluated 2 passive data collection paradigms: collection during scheduled background tasks and persistent reminders that trigger passive data collection. We investigated the following research questions (RQs): (RQ1) how do setup prompting and contextual prompting affect scheduled notification delivery and the response rate of notification-initiated EMA? (RQ2) Which authorization paradigm, setup or contextual prompting, is more successful in leading users to grant authorization to receive background events? and (RQ3) Which polling-based method, persistent reminders or scheduled background tasks, completes more background sessions? We developed mobile sensing apps for iOS and Android devices and tested them through a 30-day user study asking college students (n=145) about their stress levels. Participants responded to a daily EMA question to test active data collection. The sensing apps collected background location events, polled for passive data with persistent reminders, and scheduled background tasks to test passive data collection. For RQ1, setup and contextual prompting yielded no significant difference (ANOVA F1,144=0.0227; P=.88) in EMA compliance, with an average of 23.4 (SD 7.36) out of 30 assessments completed. However, qualitative analysis revealed that contextual prompting on iOS devices resulted in inconsistent notification deliveries. For RQ2, contextual prompting for background events was 55.5% (χ21=4.4; P=.04) more effective in gaining authorization. For RQ3, users demonstrated resistance to installing the persistent reminder, but when installed, the persistent reminder performed 226.5% more background sessions than traditional background tasks. We developed design guidelines for improving mobile sensing on consumer mobile devices based on our qualitative and quantitative results. Our qualitative results demonstrated that contextual prompts on iOS devices resulted in inconsistent notification deliveries, unlike setup prompting on Android devices. We therefore recommend using setup prompting for EMA when possible. We found that contextual prompting is more efficient for authorizing background events. We therefore recommend using contextual prompting for passive sensing. Finally, we conclude that developing a persistent reminder and requiring participants to install it provides an additional way to poll for sensor and user data and could improve data collection to support adaptive interventions powered by machine learning.

Audience Perceptions on Online Radio Platforms: A Case of University Students in Nyanza Region, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to examine audience perceptions of online radio platforms among university students in the Nyanza region. The study’s objectives included assessing audience perception of the programming of online radio platforms among university students in the Nyanza region, evaluating audience perception of signal reception of online radio platforms among university students in the Nyanza region, investigating audience perception of programs aired on online radio platforms among university students in the Nyanza region, and analyzing audience perception of program presentation of online radio platforms among university students in the Nyanza region. This study was underpinned by the framing theory and the agenda-setting theory. The research employed a descriptive research design. The target population was 872 media studies undergraduate students in six universities in the Nyanza region. Stratified random sampling was utilized to select 274 students in each of the universities. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, and a pilot study was conducted at Rongo University. The study used questionnaires for accuracy and consistency, and data were cleaned and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. Descriptive statistics were employed to examine audience perception of online radio platforms. A thematic analysis approach was used to identify recurring themes and to explore participants' perspectives. Data were presented using graphs, pie charts, and tables. Findings revealed that online radio provided higher quality programming compared to traditional radio. Results indicated that signal reception on online radio platforms was consistently reliable. According to the findings, programs aired on online radio platforms were engaging and interesting. Results indicated that the presentation style of programs on online radio platforms was professional. The study concludes that diverse and high-quality content on online radio platforms caters to varied interests, offering clear audio and stable listening experiences. Engaging and well-structured programs meet entertainment needs, recommending the development of new genres, topics, and formats to stay relevant. Quality programming, optimized scheduling, and innovative content delivery methods are essential for maintaining listener satisfaction and competitiveness in the media industry.

Towards the desired city of compromise: the politics of negotiating large-scale transformation across diversity in Johannesburg

How to reinvent Johannesburg, a metropolis whose geography of inequality has remained stubbornly entrenched since the end of apartheid? By launching the ‘Corridors of Freedom’ (CoF) initiative in 2013, the municipal government decided to take bold and deliberate steps towards conceiving and promoting a more inclusive and people-centred city. The goal was to disrupt the prevailing spatial and social pattern by connecting different parts of the city via a large public transit network and altering these same areas through increased levels of (affordable) accommodation, density, and mixed-use development. Cutting across the existing urban fabric and affecting a significant number of distinct neighbourhoods, both in terms of socio-economic and racial characteristics, this ambitious project, unsurprisingly, triggered a wide spectrum of reactions. To successfully embed this initiative required securing support (or countering opposition) from both the majority poor and black electorate demanding accessible housing and jobs, and the highly mobilised middle-class groups on whom the City authorities were financially dependent. Taking the CoF public participation process as analytical entry point, we reflect on the diverse power relations of ‘building consensus’ across highly divided neighbourhoods and populations to take forward this large-scale urban transformation. While there was widespread agreement on the broad vision outlining the need for transformation, interpretations of the ‘good’ or ‘desired’ city, views on priorities to be considered, and acceptance of required adjustments, varied greatly. Through this case, the paper offers insights into the uneven landscape of politics associated with large-scale urban developments which stretch across highly differentiated urban areas. We note the initial scope for building shared visions and a ‘consensual arena’ between state and society across such diversity, but as the project unfolded the varied challenges of implementation at scale saw a diversity of forms of power relations shaping the dynamic processes of urban development along the multifaceted landscape of the Corridors. Initially, a powerful vision, innovative technologies of planning and fast paced consultation sought to corral actors into a tight delivery schedule driven by electoral cycles. But over time actors engaged in persuasion, contestation and collaboration, as well as moments of violence and heated disruption as the development process unfolded. Drawing theoretical insights from the geographies of power and learning from analyses of the close entwining of state-citizen relations in South African urban politics, the paper suggests that in assessing the politics of large-scale developments, an agile analytical lens is needed to reflect on the diversity of power relations associated with governance and decision-making, as well as engagements and contestations, in the light of shifting political terrains, and diverse urban environments.

Identify of Preoperative and Postoperative Complication of Planned Management and Emergency Management of Patients with PAS Disorder

Background: Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) often results in significant blood loss and peripartum hysterectomy; the mother may not survive. In many cases, timely prenatal diagnosis allows for careful birth planning in a specialized facility with a highly qualified multidisciplinary team. This has been shown to reduce maternal morbidity. Scheduled deliveries are associated with lower rates of bleeding and emergency procedures when compared to emergency deliveries. Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the preoperative and postoperative complication of planned management and emergency management of patients with PAS disorder. Methods: The cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from 18th January 2020 to 17th July 2020. A total of 84 patients diagnosed as a case of PAS disorder (antenatally and peroperative diagnosed) and scheduled for planned management or emergency management of PAS were included according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. 42 planned management of PAS disorder patients as Group A and 42 emergency management of PAS disorder patients as Group B. The questionnaire was pretested, corrected and finalized. Data were collected by face-to-face interview and analyzed by appropriate computer based programmed software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 24. Results: In this study, mean ± SD of age was calculated 26.3 ± 4.3 years for Group – A and 28.1 ± 3.2 years for Group – B. Urban population were predominant in group-A. About 30 (70.0%)) patients in group-A and 10 (23.8%) patients in group-B came from urban. Large number of respondents 22 (52.4%) and 10 (50.0%) were housewife in both groups. Among the patients, the lower class 18 (42.9%) and 23 (54.8%) comprised the major percentage of the patients in both groups. More participants in Group-A 29 (69.00%) received ANC regularly than Group B 10 (23.80%), the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). In group-A maximum patients presented with only USG findings of PAS disorders and with APH or without APH 26 (61.8%). In group-B, PPH and internal haemorrhage 10 (23.8) was noted predominantly. The mild anemia was more in 23 (54.8%) patients in group A and 16 (38.1%) patients in group B which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). More participants in Group-B 26 (61.9%) required early termination, whereas majority of group A 35 (83.3%) was terminated at 35-36 weeks. There was a statistically significant difference between groups. Maximum patients were managed by peripartum hysterectomy 35 (82.0%) and 31 (73.8%) in group A & B respectively. Presence of multidisciplinary team was arranged in 38 (90.4%) in group A and 18 (42.9%) in group B. General anesthesia and CV line was given in 36 (85.7%) patients in group-A and 27 (64.3%) patients in group-B. Massive blood transfusion was needed in 23 (54.8%) patients in Group B & only 3 (7.1%) patients in Group A. Placenta acreta was present 11 (26.2%) patients in group A and 7 (16.7%) patients in group B. Placenta percreta with bladder invasion and peroperative bladder injury was higher in group-B patients. More than 3 L blood was transfused 3 (7.1%) patients in group A and 23 (54.8%) patients in group B. PPH, Sepsis, Re-exploration, DIC and ICU admission were the significant complication in Group-B patients, reported 41 (95.0), 4 (9.5%), 8 (19.0%), 9 (21.4%) and 21 (50.0%) of women and in less complication in Group A 13 (31.0), 0%, 0%, 1 (2.3) and 4 (9.5). In this study mortality rate was 2 (4.8%) in group-B (due to irreversible shock &DIC). Poor outcomes were significantly higher in group-B. NICU admission for prematurity was required in 9 (21.4%) of the babies in group-A and 23 (54.8%) babies of group-B. Birth asphyxia was observed in 4 (9.5%) of the babies in group-A and 13 (31.0%) in Group-B. Conclusion: Prenatal diagnosis and placenta preservation may be linked to lower rates of morbidity in mothers. For morbidly adherent placenta linked with placenta previa, we advise hysterectomy as the preferred course of therapy following extremely thorough prenatal counseling. Maternal problems and fetal outcomes may be improved by early risk factor identification and proactive management.

Customer order scheduling on a serial-batch machine in precast bridge construction

Prefabricated construction is widely adopted in the current bridge construction project, especially offshore bridges. The realistic requirements of large quantities of prefabricated parts and tight delivery schedules make it extremely challenging to develop optimal scheduling. We address a new customer order scheduling on a serial-batch machine (COS-SBM) to reduce the sum of inventory holding costs of finished jobs and tardiness costs of orders in precast bridge construction. In the COS-SBM problem, all jobs with incompatibility in orders need to be divided into batches, which are then scheduled for processing on a serial-batch machine. We develop a mixed-integer linear programming model to formulate this new problem. Since the COS-SBM problem is NP-hard, we propose a genetic algorithm based on a novel batch sequencing and forming encoding method (GA-BSFE), which makes the scheduling and batching decisions simultaneously to enhance its exploration. Moreover, we design an efficient three-stage heuristic based on the order weighted modified due date rule and batch weighted longest processing time rule. The three-stage heuristic is introduced into the initiation of GA-BSFE to enhance its exploitation. Finally, a set of instances generated based on the realistic production of precast girders is tested to validate the effectiveness of GA-BSFE. The performance analysis suggests that GA-BSFE is the most appropriate for the COS-SBM problem.

INNOVATING IN URBAN DISTRIBUTION OF GOODS, SMALL CHANGES, BIG RESULTS FOR THE CITY

The conceptual article invites us to reflect on how innovation doesn’t always require huge investments or technological revolutions. Sometimes the most transformative changes come from simple ideas. It is in simplicity that we often find the greatest potential for change. Implementations such as optimizing routes, reorganizing delivery schedules or using electric bicycles. They show that accessible solutions can transform urban logistics. These small but modest steps, bring great benefits and contribute to sustainability. Likewise, the ability to reimagine our processes, reusing the strategic value of the resources we already have, is to see the familiar with new eyes, reusing the known to create something extraordinary. True innovation cannot flourish in isolation. This is where public-private collaboration becomes important. While companies can lead these efforts, support from the public sector is the direct way to create new opportunities. When we join forces, we generate an ecosystem of change that allows us to integrate these small advances. We believe that innovation is not just for the few, we all have the power to generate great results from small changes.

Managing the road safety risks of last mile deliveries: Do telematics have a role to play?

Objective The research aimed to understand the impact of telematics in reducing traffic violations and crashes among drivers working in parcel delivery and the perceived utility, effectiveness, and acceptability of telematics among drivers using them. The objective was to carry out an online survey among drivers who have telematics versus drivers who do not and compare their behaviors in terms of risks and violations controlling for key demographics an exposure. Methods An online anonymous survey was conducted of 780 home delivery drivers of which 430 used telematics in 2022. The survey was conducted by a fieldwork company and participants were compensated for their time. Univariate and multivariate analysis was conducted on the data. Results Telematics users did not report less crashes than drivers who did not use telematics. Most drivers, irrespective of telematics use agreed that the time pressure of delivery work increased speed limit violations and unsafe or hazardous parking. Multivariate analysis indicated that damage collisions for all drivers were associated with factors such as, driving medium to large vans, hazardous behavior related to parking, and having penalties for violations, especially related to speed. Delivery drivers, while generally facing pressure to speed and take risks to meet delivery schedules, did perceive telematics as a tool for safety enhancement and information dissemination, as well as for the management of performance. Non-telematics users viewed it with skepticism. Conclusions Telematics alone may not ensure the safety of last-mile deliveries and could potentially increase the pressure of deliveries. This research underscores the need for a holistic approach to road safety in the home delivery sector, combining telematics technology with a proactive safety culture.

The development of drug resistance in metastatic tumours under chemotherapy: An evolutionary perspective

We present a mathematical model of the evolutionary dynamics of a metastatic tumour under chemotherapy, comprising non-local partial differential equations for the phenotype-structured cell populations in the primary tumour and its metastasis. These equations are coupled with a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model of drug administration and distribution, implementing a realistic delivery schedule. The model is carefully calibrated from the literature, focusing on BRAF-mutated melanoma treated with Dabrafenib as a case study. By means of long-time asymptotic and global sensitivity analyses, as well as numerical simulations, we explore the impact of cell migration from the primary to the metastatic site, physiological aspects of the tumour tissues and drug dose on the development of chemoresistance and treatment efficacy. Our findings provide a possible explanation for empirical evidence indicating that chemotherapy may foster metastatic spread and that metastases may be less impacted by the chemotherapeutic agent.

On delivery policies for a truck-and-drone tandem in disaster relief

This paper introduces the traveling salesman problem with a truck and a drone under incomplete information (TSP-DI). TSP-DI is motivated by the deliveries of emergency supplies under unknown road conditions in the immediate aftermath of a disastrous event. The urgency may force the immediate dispatch of relief vehicles, such that road damages blocking the truck’s planned route are detected ’on-the-fly’. The relief transport must schedule deliveries anticipating possible unplanned truck detours, enforce (planned) drone detours for early checking of key road segments, and consider the dynamic nature of road condition information. In this paper, we perform a competitive analysis of a widely used delivery policy for TSP-DI in practice – the online re-optimization policy (Reopt) – and compare it to several alternative delivery strategies. Competitive analysis examines the worst-case performance of the strategies and is particularly important in the context of disaster relief, where worst-case outcomes must be avoided. Our analysis shows that Reopt is dominated by alternative delivery policies in terms of the competitive ratio even at a medium level of damage on the road. It also underscores the importance of surveillance detours performed by the drone, even if the surveillance delays the start of the deliveries.

Optimizing Logistics: Developing An Efficient Tracking and Delivery System for Automotive Spare Parts

In the automotive spare parts industry, efficient supply chain management is the backbone of operational success. Amidst this complex ecosystem, companies face challenges in delivering fast, reliable, and competitive services, accommodating a constantly evolving consumer base with discerning preferences and rising expectations. This article aims to identify challenges in developing tracking and delivery scheduling applications for the automotive spare parts industry and improve system performance by introducing effective solutions. The research adopts a system development approach using the Waterfall method to produce a responsive and user-friendly web application, followed by functional testing using Black Box and evaluation using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Development of the tracking and delivery scheduling application using the Waterfall method resulted in a reliable and responsive application, with all system functionalities running smoothly. SUS testing indicated that the application has a good level of usability, with an average score of 77.5 out of 100. This study successfully provides relevant and efficient technological solutions to overcome operational barriers in the automotive spare parts industry, with the potential to enhance customer satisfaction and solidify the company's position as a pioneer in the automotive aftermarket sector. However, further improvements in application usability can be achieved through future iterations guided by user feedback and additional usability testing.

LINEAR PROGRAMMING FOR ALLOCATING TRANSPORTATION CAPACITIES IN FREIGHT PLANNING

Effective allocation of transport capacities is vital for motor transport enterprises engaged in freight transportation. As the demand for goods transportation rises, optimizing resource utilization becomes essential for ensuring timely deliveries, minimizing costs, and enhancing overall operational efficiency. Linear programming, a powerful tool in mathematical optimization, plays a key role in facilitating the rational distribution of limited resources. By framing the allocation problem as a linear program, enterprises can systematically identify the optimal use of their transport capacities, taking into account critical factors such as vehicle availability, delivery schedules, and associated costs. In the realm of operational planning, linear programming offers a structured and analytical approach to addressing the complexities inherent in freight transportation. This study delves into both the theoretical underpinnings and the practical applications of linear programming, showcasing its potential to significantly improve resource allocation strategies, boost efficiency, and reduce operational costs. Through the analysis of real-world examples and empirical data, the study provides valuable insights that can aid practitioners and researchers alike in refining logistics optimization practices, ultimately contributing to more efficient and cost-effective freight transport operations. Keywords: linear programming, transportation capacities, operational planning, freight transportation, resource optimization.

Analysis of the Implementation of As-Salam Contract in White Garlic Purchase Transactions between Retailers and Distributors: Case Study White Garlic Industry Supply Chain in Medan City

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the application of the As Salam contract in the purchasing system of garlic between retail traders and importers in Medan, Indonesia. Research Methodology: The research utilizes a qualitative approach, employing observation and structured interviews with key participants in the garlic trading industry. The instruments include interview guides and observational checklists to gather detailed insights into the contract negotiation and execution process. Results: The findings indicate that the trading practice involves detailed contract agreements, including specific terms on quantity, quality, and delivery schedules. The principles of the As Salam contract are strictly adhered to, ensuring clarity and minimizing the potential for disputes. Prepayment is an integral part of the contract, facilitating efficient stock planning and delivery logistics. Limitations: The study is limited to the garlic trade within the Medan region, which may restrict the broader applicability of the findings to other commodities or regions. Contribution: This research contributes to the discipline of Islamic economics by providing practical insights into the implementation of As Salam contracts in commodity trading, offering a model for ensuring fairness and transparency in accordance with Islamic law.

A constraint programming approach for resource-constrained flexible assembly flow shop scheduling problem with batch direct delivery

Production and distribution are both crucial components of supply chains. Integrated production and distribution scheduling (IPDS) in the context of flexible assembly flow shop scheduling and batch delivery problems is often overlooked. A realistic problem inspired by the production and distribution processes of a dishwasher factory can be modeled as a resource-constrained flexible assembly flow shop scheduling problem with batch direct delivery (RCFAFSP-BDD). In this problem, order requirements are decomposed into several production tasks processed at different stages of the workshop, and are then delivered in batches via a third-party logistics provider to regional distributors at various locations. Auxiliary resource restrictions, hierarchical coupling constraints, machine eligibility restrictions and sequence-dependent setup times, are incorporated into the problem as operational constraints. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to solve this problem. This work formulates a mixed-integer linear programming (MIP) model to minimize total costs, including tardiness, inventory, and delivery costs. Given the problem’s strong NP-hard nature, the focus is on developing an efficient solution approach using constraint programming (CP). A CP model is proposed and enhanced with multiple redundant constraints. To reduce runtime, two branching strategies are designed for the CP model. Numerical experiments with varying instance scales reveal that the proposed CP model outperforms the MIP model in accuracy and efficiency within the given time limit. The redundant constraints and search strategy can reduce CP model runtime by up to 263.83%. Compared to manual scheduling at the studied factory, the CP model can cut costs by up to 26.59% for real data, offering viable alternatives for factory planners.

Developing resilience strategies amid supply chain risks in the automotive industry: A stakeholder theory perspective

AbstractManaging automotive supply chain risks contributes to achieving sustainability goals, including ensuring business continuity, maintaining production and delivery schedules, and reducing environmental impact. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the risks confronting the supply chain in the automotive industry through the moderating effect of reactive and proactive resilience strategies. The stakeholder theory perspective was used in this study to examine supply chain risk in the automotive industry. A quantitative method was employed, resulting in 157 valid responses. The results reveal that demand risk had the most significant effect on auto dealer performance, followed by logistics/transportation, production, and supply risk. Notably, proactive resilience strategies were found to significantly impact the relationship between risk and performance. The findings underscore the importance of proactive measures in mitigating the performance impacts of supply chain risk. This study contributes a theoretical framework by identifying four major supply chain risks and seven proactive and 12 reactive strategies. In addition, the study was conducted through the lens of stakeholder theory, emphasizing the importance of suppliers, manufacturers, and dealers cooperating to establish a reliable supply chain.

Emergency delivery in case of suspected placenta accreta spectrum: Can it be predicted?

The main goal of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) screening is to enable delivery in an expert center in the presence of an experienced team at an appropriate time. Our study aimed to identify independent risk factors for emergency deliveries within the IS-PAS 2.0 database cohort and establish a multivariate predictive model. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected PAS cases from the IS-PAS database between January 2020 and June 2022 by 23 international expert centers was performed. All PAS cases (singleton and multiple pregnancies) managed according to local protocols were included. Individuals with emergent delivery were identified and compared to those with scheduled delivery. A multivariate analysis was conducted to identify the possible risk factors for emergency delivery and was used to establish a predictive model. Maternal outcomes were compared. Overall, 315 women were included in the study. Of these, 182 participants (89 with emergent and 93 with scheduled delivery) were included in the final analysis after exclusion of those with unsuspected PAS antenatally or who lacked information about the urgency of delivery. Gestational age at delivery was higher in the scheduled group (34.7 vs. 32.9, p < 0.001). Antenatal bleeding (OR 2.9, p = 0.02) and a placenta located over a uterine scar (OR 0.38, p = 0.001) were the independent predictive factors for emergent delivery (AUC 0.68). Ultrasound (US) markers: loss of clear zone (p = 0.001), placental lacunae (p = 0.01), placental bulge (p = 0.02), and presence of bridging vessels (p = 0.02) were more frequently documented in the scheduled group. None of these markers improved the predictive values of the model. Higher PAS grades were identified in the scheduled group (p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in maternal outcomes. Antenatal bleeding and the placental location away from the uterine scar remained the most significant predictors for emergent delivery among patients with PAS, even when combining more predictive risk factors, including US markers. Based on these results, patients who bleed antenatally may benefit from transfer to an expert center, as we found no differences in maternal outcomes between groups delivered in expert centers. Earlier-scheduled delivery is not supported due to the low predictive value of our model.

Optimizing Retail Pharmacy Success: The Role of Multichannel Marketing Strategies

This study focuses on the effect of multichannel marketing communication in retail pharmacies to establish customer satisfaction in a world experiencing the digitalization of health sectors. The objective of the study is to understand customer acquisition and retention practices, the role of online and offline integrated communication, and the extent of customer preference for various marketing communication channels. As part of the study, the quantitative analysis of the publications included in the review was made using articles and reports published from 2014 to 2024. The review was conducted on the aspects of marketing using multiple channels in retail pharmacy and the healthcare-associated fields. The studies identified that comprehensive communication channel enhancement policies positively affect the generation of revenues, reduction in costs, and information delivery schedules in pharmaceuticals. Depending on the channel, consumers’ needs and wants differ, and there is success in personalizing and presenting reasonably logical thoughts to people. Synchronicity of online and offline communication effectively increases the customers’ power, trust, and satisfaction. E-marketing has always been significant in enhancing customers’ touch points, which is why digital transformation is vital. This study further supports the fact that multichannel marketing is mandatory for the success of a retail pharmacy in the prevalent, highly competitive environment. The implementation also presupposes knowledge of consumer differences, the synergy of online and offline contacts, the emphasis on personalization, and fast adaptation to the changing technological environment, but often within the framework of severe legislation.

Consecutive Daily Versus Every Other Day Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy Scheduling for Stage I Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

The optimal delivery schedule for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in treating stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is unknown. This study used the National Cancer Database to examine daily versus every other day (QOD) SBRT scheduling, including trends over time and association with survival. The National Cancer Database was used to retrospectively identify patients with stage I NSCLC treated with 3-, 4-, or 5-fraction of SBRT between 2004 and 2016. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression modeling. Of 15,269 patients, 3927 (25.7%) received SBRT daily, and 11,342 (74.3%) received treatment QOD. The use of QOD treatment increased from 63.2% in 2007 to 78.3% in 2016, and 5-fraction SBRT increased from 3.7% in 2004 to 51.4% in 2016 (both P < .0001). QOD 5-fraction became the most prevalent scheduling from 2012 to 2016 (28.5% in 2012 to 41.6% in 2016). Factors significantly associated with daily SBRT scheduling included number of fractions, race, lower income, lower comorbidities, and treatment at academic/research programs (all P ≤ .01).Median survival for daily SBRT was 37.9 months versus 38.4 months for QOD (P = .4). On multivariable analysis, no difference was found in overall survival between daily versus QOD scheduling (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.99; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94-1.04; P = .55). Five-fraction SBRT was associated with worse survival versus 3 fractions (aHR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.03-1.15; P = .002). With 3-fraction SBRT, QOD treatment was associated with improved survival versus daily treatment (aHR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84-0.98; P = .02). With 5-fraction SBRT, QOD treatment was associated with worse survival versus daily treatment (aHR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.02-1.22; P = .02). QOD SBRT schedules were more frequently used to treat stage I NSCLC than daily regimens by a factor of 3:1, and QOD 5-fraction SBRT became the most common dose schedule after 2012. Three-fraction QOD SBRT was associated with improved survival versus daily, whereas 5-fraction QOD SBRT was associated with worse survival versus daily.

Effect of Treatment Delivery Schedule for Patients With Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated With Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy: A Population-Based Analysis

PurposeThe optimal stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) delivery schedule in stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. This population-based study investigated grade ≥ 2 toxicity rates, local failure (LF), and overall survival (OS) in patients treated with 48 Gy in 4 fractions scheduled every other day (QOD) versus daily with weekends (QDW) and consecutive daily without weekends (QD). Materials and MethodsBetween January 2019 and June 2022, treatment records using 48 Gy in 4 fractions were extracted from a provincial cancer registry and grouped by delivery as QOD, QDW, or QD. Toxicity events were recorded using CTCAE v5.0. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to compute OS while LF was calculated using cumulative incidence methods with death as a competing risk. Cox regression analyses and Fine-Gray modelling was used to assess for variables associated with OS and LF, respectively. ResultsOf 404 patients meeting study criteria, 190, 111, and 103 received QOD, QDW, and QD SABR, respectively. More patients receiving QDW SABR were medically inoperable and more patients receiving QD SABR had tumors abutting the chest wall. Median follow-up was 29.5 months (interquartile range [IQR] 19.2-38.4). Overall toxicity was low, with crude rates of acute and late grade ≥ 2 toxicity not being statistically different among the groups. No grade 4 or 5 toxicities were recorded. LF rates at 24 months were not different at 7.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.7-11.3), 9.5% (95% CI 3.9-15.1), and 11.0% (95% CI 4.9-17.2) for the QOD, QDW, and QD groups, respectively (p = 0.60). QDW and QD schedules were not associated with LR. Similarly, no significant differences in median OS were found among the QOD, QDW, and QD groups at 47.5 months (95% CI 39.26-55,74), 52.7 (95% CI 34.7-70.7), and 49.0 months (95% CI 31.6-66.4), respectively. QDW and QD schedules were not associated with OS. ConclusionsThis population-based study demonstrated no statistically significant differences in grade ≥ 2 toxicity rates, LF, and OS for stage I NSCLC patients treated with lung SABR using 48 Gy in 4 fractions delivered QOD, QDW, and QD. Patient convenience and optimization of resources may be considered when choosing a lung SABR treatment delivery schedule.

90 Effect of Treatment Delivery Schedule for Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy: A Population-Based Analysis

90 Effect of Treatment Delivery Schedule for Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy: A Population-Based Analysis