Pinto

Results of complete 3-dimensional AC/DC characterizations of the n-p-n transistor in a submicron BiCMOS technology are presented. Accuracy and throughput acceptable for constructing compact models is achieved through the use of multidimensional process simulation, adaptive grid generation and preconditioned iterative techniques for both DC and small-signal analysis. Comparisons of 2- and 3-dimensional simulations with measurements enable assessments of the magnitude of 3-dimensional effects, thereby suggesting efficient device optimization strategies. >

OBJECTIVE: To compare the pattern of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction following selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) versus argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) in open-angle glaucoma (OAG) patients, and to investigate the ability of initial IOP reduction to predict mid-term success. METHODS: A prospective, nonrandomized, interventional case series was carried out. Consecutive uncontrolled OAG glaucoma patients underwent SLT or ALT; the same preoperative medical regimen was maintained during follow-up. Data collected included age, type of OAG, pre- and postoperative IOP, number of glaucoma medications, and surgical complications. Post-treatment assessments were scheduled at day 1 and 7 and months 1, 3, and 6. RESULTS: A total of 45 patients (45 eyes) were enrolled [SLT group (n = 25); ALT group (n = 20)]. Groups were similar for age, baseline IOP, and number of glaucoma medications (P ≥ 0.12). We found no significant differences in mean IOP reduction between SLT (5.1 ± 2.5 mmHg; 26.6%) and ALT (4.4 ± 2.8 mmHg; 22.8%) groups at month 6 (P = 0.38). Success rates (IOP ≤ 16 mmHg and IOP reduction ≥25%) at last follow-up visit were similar for SLT (72%) and ALT (65%) groups (P = 0.36). Comparing the pattern of IOP reduction (% of IOP reduction at each visit) between groups, we found a greater effect following SLT compared with ALT at day 7 (23.7% ± 13.7% vs 8.1% ± 9.5%; P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed at other time points (P ≥ 0.32). Additionally, the percentage of IOP reduction at day 7 and at month 6 were significantly correlated in the SLT group (R(2) = 0.36; P < 0.01), but not in the ALT group (P = 0.89). Early postoperative success predicted late success in most SLT cases (82%). No serious complications were observed. CONCLUSION: Although mid-term results suggest SLT and ALT as effective and equivalent alternatives, a greater initial IOP reduction was observed following SLT. In addition, the initial IOP reduction was a good predictor of mid-term success in patients undergoing SLT, but not ALT.

We describe a composite collector InP/InGaAs heterostructure bipolar transistor with f/sub T/=144 GHz and f/sub max/=81 GHz. The breakdown voltage BV/sub CEO/ is greater than 5V and output conductance is essentially independent of the collector voltage. This combination of performance characteristics is obtained with a carefully optimized collector structure. A monolithic transimpedance amplifier based on composite collector transistors has a bandwidth of 28 GHz and gain of 40 dB Omega . A hybrid optical receiver constructed with these amplifiers has open eye diagrams at 32 Gbit/s and a 1*10/sup -9/ error rate with -23.7 dBm of incident power.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine the cost savings of a pharmacist-led, employer-sponsored medication therapy management (MTM) program for diabetic patients and to assess for any changes in patient satisfaction and self-reported medication adherence for enrollees. METHODS: Participants in this study were enrollees of an employer-sponsored MTM program. They were included if their primary medical insurance and prescription coverage was from the City of Toledo, they had a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, and whether or not they had been on medication or had been given a new prescription for diabetes treatment. The data were analyzed on a prospective, pre-post longitudinal basis, and tracked for one year following enrollment. Outcomes included economic costs, patient satisfaction, and self-reported patient adherence. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the population, calculate the number of visits, and determine the mean costs for each visit. Friedman's test was used to determine changes in outcomes due to the nonparametric nature of the data. RESULTS: The mean number of visits to a physician's office decreased from 10.22 to 7.07. The mean cost of these visits for patients increased from $47.70 to $66.41, but use of the emergency room and inpatient visits decreased by at least 50%. Employer spending on emergency room visits decreased by $24,214.17 and inpatient visit costs decreased by $166,610.84. Office visit spending increased by $11,776.41. A total cost savings of $179,047.80 was realized by the employer at the end of the program. Significant improvements in patient satisfaction and adherence were observed. CONCLUSION: Pharmacist interventions provided through the employer-sponsored MTM program led to substantial cost savings to the employer with improved patient satisfaction and adherence on the part of employees at the conclusion of the program.