Abstract: Systems and methods are presented for scheduling appointments efficiently by generating predictive models using historical appointment data and using these models to predict in advance whether an appointment will be a no-show or a cancellation. The predictive models may be based on logistic regression methods, support vector machines, or neural networks. If the model predicts that an appointment in a particular time-slot will probably be a no-show/cancellation, a scheduling system may decide to double-book that time-slot in order to reduce scheduling inefficiency.

Abstract: The invention provides a pump with a transducer comprising a laminate with a film of a dielectric polymer material arranged between first and second layers of an electrically conductive material so that it is deflectable in response to an electrical field applied between the layers, wherein the laminate is arranged to cause a pumping action upon deflection of the film. The invention further provides a control system for a pump.

Abstract: The invention provides a power actuated valve comprising a transducer and a housing which forms an inlet for entering fluid into the valve, an exit for exit of the fluid from the valve, and a path between the inlet and the exit, the transducer comprising a laminate with a film of a dielectric polymer material arranged between first and second layers of an electrically conductive material. The film is elastically deformable in response to an electrical field applied between the layers, and the transducer is arranged relative to the path so that a ratio between deformation of the film and a flow condition in the path is established.

Abstract: A harness includes a single and unitary body with a plurality of longitudinal members and a plurality of latitudinal members monolithically formed therewith. The apparatus further includes a plurality of fasteners with opposed ends directly and oppositely mated to the longitudinal members and extending towards a center of the body for being engaged about the patient. Each of such fasteners has male and female members detachably and directly mated along a width of the body and between the longitudinal sides respectively. The apparatus further includes a first plurality of handles monolithically connected to the longitudinal members and extending laterally away therefrom along opposed sides of the body, and a second plurality of handles are monolithically connected to opposed corners of the body and diagonally protruding outwardly therefrom.