Development of a TOPAS Monte Carlo (MC) model extension to simulate the automatic exposure control function of a C-arm CBCT.

Purpose: Accurate simulation of organ doses in C-arm CBCT is critical for estimating personalised patient dosimetry. However, system complexities such as automatic exposure control (AEC) and the incorporation of DICOM images into simulations are challenging. The aim of this study was to develop a model for mimicking the operation of an AEC system, which maintains a constant dose to the detector through mA modulation in order to facilitate more accurate MC dosimetry models for C-arm CBCT.

From symptoms to subjective and bodily experiences: the contribution of the Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual (PDM-2) to diagnosis and treatment monitoring in eating disorders.

Purpose: Atheoretical and descriptive conceptualizations of eating disorders (EDs) have faced substantial criticism due to their limited ability to assess patients' subjective characteristics and experiences, as needed to determine the most appropriate treatment options. The present article provides an overview of the clinical and empirical literature supporting the potential contribution of the Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual (PDM-2) to both diagnostic assessment and treatment monitoring.

Methods: Following a discussion of the most relevant shortcomings of current diagnostic models of EDs and a description of the rationale and structure of the PDM-2, evidence supporting the core PDM-2 dimensions of ED patients' subjective experiences (i.

Relative response of dosimeters to variations in scattered X-ray energy spectra encountered in interventional radiology.

Purpose: The new lower eye lens dose limit is of relevance in interventional radiology, where higher dose procedures result in increased scattered radiation to staff. The eye lens dose may be monitored using the directional dose equivalent at 3 mm depth, H(3), or through H(10) or H(0.07) measurements and using conversion factors.

Clinical Necessity Guidelines for Psychotherapy, Insurance Medical Necessity and Utilization Review Protocols, and Mental Health Parity.

The founding members of the Coalition for Psychotherapy Parity present Clinical Necessity Guidelines for Psychotherapy, Insurance Medical Necessity and Utilization Review Protocols, and Mental Health Parity. These guidelines support access to psychotherapy as prescribed by the clinician without arbitrary limitations on duration or frequency. The authors of the guidelines first review the evidence that psychotherapy is effective, cost-effective, and often provides a cost-offset in decreased overall medical expenses, morbidity, mortality, and disability.

The Pennsylvania Trauma Outcomes Study Risk-Adjusted Mortality Model: Results of a Statewide Benchmarking Program.

Trauma centers need objective feedback on performance to inform quality improvement efforts. The Trauma Quality Improvement Program recently published recommended methodology for case mix adjustment and benchmarking performance. We tested the feasibility of applying this methodology to develop risk-adjusted mortality models for a statewide trauma system.