Biomedical subjects

K E Fitzpatrick

Publications and source records attributed to K E Fitzpatrick.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed1986

Determination of an optimal forecast model for ambulance demand using goal programming.

A multistep approach to determining the optimal parameters of an exponential smoothing model was used to forecast emergency medical service (E.M.S.) demand for four counties of South Carolina. Daily emergency and routine (non-emergency) demand data were obtained and forecast statistics generated for each county sampled, using Winters' exponential smoothing model. A goal programme was formulated to combine forecast results for emergency calls with routine call forecasts. The goal programme gave a higher priority to accurate forecasting of emergency demand. The forecast model generated implicitly weights demand by severity and provides a reliable estimate of demand overall. The optimal parameter values for the smoothing model were obtained by minimizing the objective function value of the goal programming problem. The parameter values obtained were used to forecast demand for E.M.S. in the selected counties. The results of the model were compared to those using a multiple linear regression model and a single-objective-based exponential smoothing model for 2 months of data. When compared with two single-objective forecast models, the multiple-objective approach yielded more accurate forecasts and, therefore, was more cost-effective for the planner. The model presents and demonstrates a theoretical approach to improving the accuracy of ambulance demand forecasts. The possible impact of this approach on planning efficiency is discussed.

Ambulances↗

PubMed1985

An integer linear programming model of staff retention and termination based on multiattribute utility theory.

An integer linear programming formulation was used to model several staffing alternatives available to the director of a recreation therapy department. The utility function of the decision maker was assessed using two attributes of effectiveness: performance and experience. Two utility approximations were obtained for each staff member based upon the average performance rating and number of years of experience both as a recreation therapist and at the facility. The utility obtained was viewed as a proxy for, and a comparative measure of, effectiveness, which considers the criteria of training and experience. The individuals who comprise the most effective combination of therapists, given staff reductions, were obtained by maximizing the sum of staff values. The first constraint set involved a budgetary constraint, coverage constraints, and an EEOC policy restriction. The coverage restriction and the budget were varied to reflect changes in the department resources. The model was validated with the department supervisor for the case of a one-position, 10% budget decrease.

Employment↗

PubMed1981

Control of the preovulatory gonadotropin surge in the ewe.

The aims of this study were to determine the effect of ovariectomy on the release of LH and FSH during the preovulatory gonadotropin surge and to ascertain, by the use of sodium pentobarbitone (NaPb), if the secretion of these pituitary hormones requires continuous stimulation from the hypothalamus. Sheep were treated with NaPb for 2 h beginning 1) immediately before the gonadotropin surge, 2) during the ascending limb of the gonadotropin surge, and 3) during the descending limb of the gonadotropin surge. Ewes were ovariectomized (ovx) at each of the time periods listed above, and intact ewes included were at times 2 and 3. A group of intact ewes was given 100 microgram gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in addition to NaPb at time 2, NaPb given during the ascending limb of the gonadotropin surge caused a transient fall in peripheral LH and FSH; however, the release of gonadotropins was reinitiated and the surge continued when the ewes recovered from anesthesia. Treatment with NaPb after the apex of the gonadotropin surge did not affect circulating levels of LH and FSH. Ewes given NaPb and ovx before the initiation of the gonadotropin surge released significantly less LH and FSH during the surge than the other treatment groups. The total amounts of LH and FSH released in intact and ovx ewes treated with NaPb after the surge was initiated were not different than those levels in the saline-treated controls. Intact ewes treated with 100 micrograms GnRH also released an amount of LH similar to that in the control group. We conclude that gonadotropin release from the pituitary gland requires the continual presence of GnRH during the ascending limb of the preovulatory gonadotropin surge, and that once the surge has been triggered, the ovaries do not appear to be required for further hypothalamic stimulation.

Animals↗