Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Changing trends in aortic valve procedures over the past ten years-from mechanical prosthesis via stented bioprosthesis to TAVI procedures-analysis of 50,846 aortic valve cases based on a Polish National Cardiac Surgery Database.

Background Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is one of the most common surgeries performed in cardiac surgery operating rooms. We present actual, real life trends from the last 10 years for AVR interventions based on a multicentre National Registry of Cardiac Surgery Database. Methods The study population consisted of all 50,846 consecutive adult patients who underwent AVR between January 2006 and August 2016 in all cardiac surgery units in Poland. The main outcome measures were changes in the number of valves, characteristics of valves, operative details, and in-hospital mortality. Analysis consisted of all aortic valve (AV) procedures, including isolated AV surgery, combination procedures and patients who had a prior valve operation. Results In last 10 years, the number of procedures increased by 46%. Isolated surgical AVR was performed in 61.2%, AVR + coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in 23.9%, AVR + mitral valve replacement (MVR) in 7%, and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in 2.3% of patients. The mean patient age increased significantly from 61.4 years in 2006 to 66.1 years in 2016. Aortic stenosis was diagnosed in 73.4%, severe aortic insufficiency in 15.8% of cases. The most common valve pathology was calcification. Congenital valve dysfunction was diagnosed in 3.7% of cases. There was a 33.7% increase of bioprosthesis, and the most common implanted bioprosthesis was the Hancock II. The most common implanted mechanical prosthesis was the St. Jude Medical Mechanical Valve. In-hospital mortality decreased significantly over the 10-year period in all AV procedures from 10.9% in 2006 to 8.3% in 2016. Mean in-hospital mortality was: 4.0% in isolated surgical AVR, 5.4% in TAVI, 6.8% in AVR + CABG, 9.8% in AVR + MVR, 17.2% in AVR + MVR + CABG. Conclusions In the last ten years, the number of AV procedure has doubled. Mortality was significantly lower with all types of AV procedure despite very rapid aging of AVR patients. TAVI procedure rapidly grew in popularity. There is significant increase in the use of bioprosthesis.
Dynamic stereo vision

An important problem in dynamic vision is integration of the spatial information that is available to a camera system as it moves in a stationary environment. Like most other problems, the representation of information is the dominant factor in forming a solution. Many previous approaches in dynamic vision were formulated using a viewer-centered representation. This dissertation presents the foundations of a new general approach that exploits the relative properties of stationary objects. As part of this approach we propose a new representation scheme called Referent-centered representation which describes the spatial arrangement of the scene in terms of fixed referents in the environment rather than the moving viewer. Our approach is presented in terms of a computational model for dynamic vision, and is supported by mathematical, computational and psychophysical evidence. The most important aspect of this model is that it allows the integration of spatial information over time without the explicit computation of camera motion. We describe both monocular and binocular dynamic vision systems, designed based on this model, which analyze time-varying images and integrate spatial information over time. These systems are implemented and tested on real stereo image sequences, and numerical and visual proofs are presented showing that the computational model is both practical and robust.
Gang Involvement and Drug Use Histories Among People Who Inject Drugs in California: A Retrospective Analysis

We examined whether gang membership history was associated with earlier age of first drug use, first drug injection, and shorter time to injection (TTI) drug use among people who inject drugs (PWID). PWID (N = 438) were interviewed in California (2011-2013). Surveys addressed demographics, current/former drug use practices, gang membership, and parental drug use. Multivariate analyses were conducted to identify whether gang membership history was associated with age at first drug use, first injection drug use, and TTI. Gang membership was reported by 23% of sample. Gang membership history was associated with earlier ages of first drug use (–1.35 years; 95% confidence interval [CI]= [−0.50, −2.20]), age at first injection (–1.89 years; 95% CI = [0.00, −3.78]), but not TTI. Gang involvement facilitates drug use including earlier age of first injection drug use.
The efficacy of secondary cytoreductive surgery for recurrent ovarian, tubal, or peritoneal cancer in Tian-model low-risk patients

Objective In patients with recurrent ovarian cancer (ROC) in whom surgery is likely to render them disease-free, it is unclear whether secondary cytoreductive surgery (SCS) combined with chemotherapy is superior to chemotherapy alone. The aim of this study was to evaluate the 2 treatment options in Tian-model low-risk patients. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 118 ROC cases treated in our hospital between 2004 and 2016. Of these, 52 platinum-sensitive cases were classified as low-risk (complete resection anticipated) using the Tian model. Prognostic factors were assessed with univariate and multivariate analysis using Cox's regression model. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared in patients treated with SCS plus chemotherapy (SCS group) and those treated with chemotherapy alone (chemotherapy group), using a propensity-score-based matching method. Results By multivariate analysis, the only factor associated with better OS was SCS. PFS and OS were significantly longer in the SCS group compared to the chemotherapy group in the matched cohort (median PFS: 21.7 vs. 15.1 months, p=0.027 and median OS: 91.4 vs. 33.4 months, p=0.008, respectively). In cases with multiple-site recurrence, the SCS group also showed significantly longer OS than the chemotherapy group (median 91.4 vs. 34.8 months, p=0.022). In almost all SCS cases, cooperation was required from other departments, and operation time was lengthy (median 323 minutes); however, no serious complications occurred. Conclusion SCS combined with chemotherapy results in better PFS and OS than chemotherapy alone in first platinum-sensitive ROC patients categorized as low-risk by Tian's model.
Threshold Logic Properties and Methods: Applications to Post-CMOS Design Automation and Gene Regulation Modeling

Threshold logic has been studied by at least two independent group of researchers. One group of researchers studied threshold logic with the intention of building threshold logic circuits. The earliest research to this end was done in the 1960’s. The major work at that time focused on studying mathematical properties of threshold logic as no efficient circuit implementations of threshold logic were available. Recently many post-CMOS (Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) technologies that implement threshold logic have been proposed along with efficient CMOS implementations. This has renewed the effort to develop efficient threshold logic design automation techniques. This work contributes to this ongoing effort. Another group studying threshold logic did so, because the building block of neural networks – the Perceptron, is identical to the threshold element implementing a threshold function. Neural networks are used for various purposes as data classifiers. This work contributes tangentially to this field by proposing new methods and techniques to study and analyze functions implemented by a Perceptron After completion of the Human Genome Project, it has become evident that most biological phenomenon is not caused by the action of single genes, but due to the complex interaction involving a system of genes. In recent times, the ‘systems approach’ for the study of gene systems is gaining popularity. Many different theories from mathematics and computer science has been used for this purpose. Among the systems approaches, the Boolean logic gene model has emerged as the current most popular discrete gene model. This work proposes a new gene model based on threshold logic functions (which are a subset of Boolean logic functions). The biological relevance and utility of
Horizontal Crank Position Affects Economy and Upper Limb Kinematics of Recumbent Handcyclists.

PURPOSE To determine the effects of horizontal crank position on economy and upper limb kinematics in recumbent handcycling. METHODS Fifteen trained handcyclists performed trials at 50% and 70% of their peak aerobic power output (POPeak), determined during a maximal exercise test, in each horizontal crank position. Four horizontal crank positions, 94%, 97%, 100%, and 103% of arm length, were investigated. Horizontal crank positions were defined as the distance between the acromion angle to the center of the handgrip, while the crank arm was parallel to the floor and pointing away from the participant. Economy and upper limb kinematics were calculated during the final minute of each 3-min trial. RESULTS Horizontal crank position significantly affected handcycling economy at 70% POPeak (P < 0.01) but not at 50% POPeak (P = 0.44). The 97% horizontal crank position (16.0 [1.5] mL·min·W) was significantly more economical than the 94% (16.7 (1.9) mL·min·W) (P = 0.04) and 103% (16.6 (1.7) mL·min·W) (P < 0.01) positions. The 100% horizontal crank position (16.2 (1.7) mL·min·W) was significantly more economical than the 103% position (P < 0.01). Statistical parametric mapping indicated that an increase in horizontal crank position, from 94% to 103%, caused a significant increase in elbow extension, shoulder flexion, adduction, internal rotation, scapular internal rotation, wrist flexion, clavicle depression and clavicle protraction between 0% and 50% (0°-180°) of the cycle (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Positioning the cranks at 97% to 100% of the athletes' arm length improved handcycling economy at 70% POPeak as, potentially, the musculature surrounding the joints of the upper limb were in a more favorable position to produce force economically.
An Overview of the Drug Epidemic in the United States with a Focus on Opioids, Cocaine, and Marijuana

The prescription drug epidemic and illegal drug crisis has been at a steady incline for the last few decades. The United States have recently seen a rapid increase in overdose deaths, E.R. visits, and reports of misuse of prescription opioids and drug abuse (Meyer, Patel, Rattana, Quock, & Mody, 2014, p. 380). Part of the problem stems from doctors that write prescriptions for any ache or pain without thought for the potential addiction and destruction that it can cause if not used responsibly (Malinowski, 2018, p. 1032). As of 2016, at least 174 people die every day in the U.S. as a result of drug poisoning (Drug Enforcement Administration [DEA], 2018, p. v). Part of the issue also results from the constant flow of counterfeit and illegal drugs coming across the border and being sold on the street. There have been attempts in the past to stifle the outbreaks but with little success. While most prescription opioid addicts start as patients, they often end up moving on to hard drugs because of the easier access. For others, it has become so easy to obtain drugs on the street that they fall into the trap of temptation and are then addicted, causing drastic changes to their lifestyle for the rest of their lives. This epidemic is creating huge consequences for our nation and how it functions as a society to the point that none can argue that the state of the epidemic seems to require the focus of the nation in order to achieve success.
Australian undergraduates' use and ownership of emerging technologies: implications and opportunities for creating engaging learning experiences for the Net Generation

Studies and commentary from the United States suggest that current undergraduates, part of the so called Net Generation, are high end users of emerging technologies such as mobile devices and new communication tools. This paper reports results from an Australian study of first year undergraduates which confirms these assertions: ownership of laptops, mobile phones and music devices appears to be growing rapidly among this group, along with their use of tools such as instant messaging, blogs and podcasts. Discussion of these results include suggestions as to how teachers of first year undergraduates can incorporate these tools and devices into extramural learning experiences in order to increase engagement and exploit the Net Generation's desire for 'connectedness'.
Effectiveness of Laser Acupoint Therapy and Exercise Program on Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Response in Mild Essential Hypertensive Patients

Background and Purpose; Hypertension is associated with enhanced oxidative stress. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been employed as a treatment for a variety of clinical conditions. Regular physical activity lowers blood pressure and enhances endothelial vasodilator function in hypertensive patients. The main purpose of the study was to measure the levels of serum Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in relation to practicing laser acupuncture therapy and exercise program in mild essential hypertensive patients. Study Type and Design; Interventional, Randomized Control Trial. Subjects and Methods; 45-male patients (40-60 years) with mild essential hypertension were participated in the study. Following baseline measurements, patients were categorized randomly into three homogenous groups; laser therapy, exercise and control. Patients of laser therapy group subjected to a program of laser acupoint therapy to Chinese points for treating hypertension for 4 weeks. Patients of exercise group performed a supervised treadmill exercise program 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Data of preand post-intervention measures were collected and statistically analyzed. Results; Comparing postintervention results of laser therapy and control groups, and between exercise and control groups, showed a high statistically significant difference of mean values of MDA, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and pulse rate (PR), while serum GPX, showed nonsignificant (P>0.05) difference. Conclusions; Short-term (4-week) laser therapy and supervised treadmill exercise programs significantly improved MDA level. There was also a significant reduction in SBP and DBP, exhibiting a considerable hypotensive effect. It was found also that laser therapy is more efficient in improving the studied parameters than such improvements documented in exercise program. Keywords; Essential Hypertension, Oxidative Stress, Malondialdehyde, Glutathione peroxidase, Laser Acupoint, Exercise Program
A study on initial outcome of selective non-operative management in penetrating abdominal injury in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh.

Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the initial outcome of non-operative, conservative management in selective penetrating abdominal injury in a tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods This was a cross sectional study done on purposively selected 36 patients with penetrating abdominal injuries of all ages admitted within 6 hours of the incident. All patients confirmed peritoneal breach and standard algorithm of management was followed. Closed monitoring was ensured with repeated investigations at regular intervals. Outcome parameters included surgical site infection (SSI), fever, hypothermia, wound dehiscence, fecal fistula, length of stay, pulmonary complication and death. Results A total of 36 patients with a mean age of 30 years (SD= 6.7), consisting all males, mostly (58%) from rural areas and 73% from low socioeconomic condition. Site of injury was noted in the epigastrium (42%) and right iliac region (22%). Among them, 33 (92%) patients were successfully managed with non-operative management and 3 (8%) patients needed laparotomy. Routine imaging and clinical observation could detect hollow viscus injury within 36 hours in 3 patients. Hospital stay was significantly lower ( <7 days) in conservative management. Conclusion Clinical examination alone and/or together with different diagnostic methods could reduce the number of negative laparotomies and associated morbidities. Single surgeon must closely monitor a patient of penetrating abdominal injury and take vital decisions from the time of admission until discharge.
Trust and Distrust in Open Source Software Development

Few open source software (OSS) projects have been great success stories. One reason for this is project stagnation after developers quit their projects. This fact has motivated researchers to examine the factors that influence developers' intention to continue their participation. One factor is trust among developers. The effects of trust on developers' intention to remain with their projects have been studied. However, little is known about its conceptual counterpart, distrust. This dearth of knowledge motivates our research. First, we studied what OSS project features affect trust and distrust among developers. Second, we examined how trust and distrust influence developers' intention to continue participating. We tested our hypotheses with 451 data points from an online survey. Our findings indicate that cooperative norms and effective communication engender trust, whereas an accreditation mechanism eliminates distrust. Additionally, trust positively influences their intention to continue participating, whereas distrust negatively influences it.
Psychiatric Morbidity among Patients of Suicide

Background: The word suicide is derived from the Latin word “self murder. ” It is the human act of self intentioned cessation, self inflicting, committed out of acute anguish, tunneled logic and constricted thinking. Aims: To find psychiatric morbidity among patients of suicide. Materials & Methods: The present cross-sectional study conducted on 118 patients of suicide who were admitted in the hospital and were seeking psychiatric consultation through liaison. Various parameters like their sociodemographic characteristics, mode of suicide and precipitating factors were noted in a preformed proforma after a detailed interview. Psychiatric diagnosis was made according to ICD-10 after assesing the patient with MINI ((Mini International Neuropsychiatric Instrument). Results: Maximum i.e. 52.5% patients were in the age group 15-30 years, Females were 65.3%, 56.8% patients were of rural background. Majority of the patients were Hindus (64.4%), married (61.9%), educated (77.1%), unemployed (70.3%) and were of low socioeconomic status (48.3%). Total of 52.5% were having family conflict as the precipitating factors. Poisoning was the most common way of suicide accounting for 61.9% suicidal attempts. Psychiatric morbidity was present in 60.2% patients of which depression was the most common diagnosis and was present in 28% patients of suicide. Conclusion: From present study, suicide appears to be a major public health problem which can be prevented. Persons who had attempted suicide and their family members should be followed up in order to prevent future attempts. Strict laws for storing potentially poisonous drugs and chemicals would help in reducing suicidal attempts by restricting access.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparation Combined Therapy May Improve Chemotherapy Efficacy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Whether traditional Chinese medicine preparation combined therapy can improve the efficacy of chemotherapy is controversial. This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine preparation combined with chemotherapy. Method Three databases were searched from inception through August 2018. Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving the combined treatment of chemotherapy and traditional Chinese medicine preparation compared to chemotherapy alone for treating cancer were retrieved. The methodological quality of the included RCTs was assessed with Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias assessment tool. Meta-analysis was adopted to make comprehensive comparisons between the experimental and control groups. Results Four RCTs were included in this review, comprising 256 subjects. The majority of the RCTs were judged as being of poor methodological quality. Meta-analysis showed that the combination of traditional Chinese medicine preparation and chemotherapy appeared to be more effective than chemotherapy alone, for the treatment of cancer, as assessed by the disease control rate (RR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.79) and the objective response rate (RR: 2.71, 95% CI: 1.28 to 5.77). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of bone marrow suppression (RR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.57 to 1.37) or gastrointestinal reaction (RR: 1.12, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.69). Conclusions Traditional Chinese medicine preparation combined with chemotherapy may improve objective response rates and disease control rates more than chemotherapy alone. The evidence that combined traditional Chinese medicine preparation can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy is insufficient. More rigorous randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these conclusions.
Smart Robot Arm Motion Using Computer Vision

In this study computer vision and robot arm are used together to design a smart robot arm system which can identify objects from images automatically and perform given tasks. A serving robot application, in which specific tableware can be identified and lifted from a table, is presented in this work. A new database was created by using images of objects used in serving a meal. This study consists of two phases: First phase includes recognition of the objects through computer vision algorithms and determining the specified objects’ coordinates. Second phase is the realization of the robot arm’s movement to the given coordinates. Artificial neural network is used for object recognition in this system. 98.30 % overall accuracy of recognition is achieved. Robot arm’s joint angles were calculated by using coordinate dictionary for moving the arm to desired coordinates and the robot arm’s movement was performed. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.5755/j01.eee. 21.6. 13749
Surgical Treatment of Solitary Malignant Melanoma Metastasis to the Pancreas - Single Department Experience and Literature Review

Introduction Solitary malignant melanoma metastasis to the pancreas is rare and occurs in approximately 1% of patients with metastatic malignant melanoma. Historically, most patients are considered unresectable. However, resection of isolated metastasis could enable disease-free survival benefit, particularly in the absence of effective systemic therapies. Methods We present our department experience of pancreatic resection for isolated MM metastasis along with a review of the English published literature. Patients with extra-pancreatic disease and patients who did not undergo surgery were excluded. Results and Discussion A 46 year old woman, with a right arm MM excised nine years ago, presented to our unit with an isolated tail of the pancreas mass on routine follow-up computed tomography. Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy were preformed and revealed a 28 mm metastatic MM, with negative resection margins. The patient is asymptomatic with no recurrence two years after the resection. No adjuvant treatment was given. The literature review revealed three case series and 22 case reports with a total of 38 patients. The follow-up ranged from 1-264 months with a 5 year survival of 37.5% reported. Conclusions In carefully selected patients surgery may offer an overall survival benefit. Resection of isolated pancreatic metastases should be considered as it may provide a significant survival benefit for a disease with high mortality and lack of effective systemic therapies. Multidisciplinary decision and treatment in high volume centres is mandatory.