We consider a multi-agent framework for distributed optimization where each agent has access to local smooth strongly convex function, and the collective goal is achieve consensus on parameters that minimize sum of agents' functions. propose an algorithm wherein operates asynchronously independently other agents. When functions are strongly-convex with Lipschitz-continuous gradients, we show it...

QUESTION What are the major concerns during pregnancy for women with prosthetic heart valves? ANSWER There are 2 types of prosthetic heart valves, bioprosthetic and mechanical. Although successful pregnancies are possible for women with prosthetic heart valves, there are potential complications-some of which can be fatal-for both types of valves. Therefore, preconception counseling and assess...

The study was performed on 110 great saphenous veins in human foetuses of both sexes aged 9 to 37 weeks. The earliest well-shaped valves were observed in foetuses aged 13 weeks. In these foetuses the number of valves varies from 2 to 7. Consecutive microscopic sections revealed that the developing valves at their origin present thickening of the endothelium which is continuous into the cusps of...

The primary task of the electronic pressure (E/P) valves is to control the pressure continuously in different industrial automation processes. Their use in pneumatic drives allows regulating pressures in both cylinder chambers and so it is possible to achieve a direct force controlled actuator. Additionally to the force control, position control of the pneumatic actuator using E/P valves has be...

Results of long-term follow-up of an early cohort of patients receiving aortic valve homografts for aortic stenosis and aortic insufficiency are presented. All patients were operated upon by a single surgeon from 1966 to 1971. Eighty-three patients underwent insertion of 85 homograft aortic valves. Homografts were sterilized with either betapropiolactone (39 valves) or gamma irradiation (41 val...

Paravalvular leak (PVL) is an uncommon yet serious complications associated with the implantation of surgical prosthetic valves and more recently recognized with transcatheter valves. Renewed interest has developed as relationships have emerged between the degree of paravalvular regurgitation and mortality. Percutaneous closure of PVLs has shown significant promise with contemporary success rat...

To determine the incidence and extent of calcification of implanted glutaraldehyde-treated porcine prosthetic heart valves, 82 valves explanted from 73 patients were examined for calcium by radiography and light microscopy. At the time of valve implantation, the patients were 2 1/4-76 years old. The included 15 children (patients younger than 15 years of age, mean age at time of valve implantat...