There is a paucity of low-fidelity and cost-efficient simulators for training cardiac surgeons in the aspects of aortic root/valve replacement. In this study we addressed this training challenge by creating a low-fidelity, low-cost but, at the same time, anatomically realistic aortic root replacement simulator for training purposes. We used readily available, low cost materials such as lint rol...

This article investigates the value of perfect monitoring information for optimal replacement of deteriorating systems in the Proportional Hazards Model (PHM). A continuous-time Markov chain describes the condition of the system. Although the form of an optimal replacement policy for system under periodic monitoring in the PHM was developed previously, an approximation of the Markov process as ...

Objectives To evaluate the impact of total knee replacement on quality of life in people with knee osteoarthritis and to estimate associated differences in lifetime costs and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) according to use by level of symptoms.Design Marginal structural modeling and cost effectiveness analysis based on lifetime predictions for total knee replacement and death from populati...

replacement and reattachment of a newly detached composite tooth pontic is sometimes justified because of shape, color, function and patient satisfaction. the aim of this case report is to describe a new method using rigid tray technique for exact replacement and reattachment of acceptable detached composite tooth pontic

Cascaded H-bridge multilevel power electronic converters generally require several dc sources. An alternative option is to replace all the separate dc sources feeding the H-bridge cells with capacitors, leaving only one H-bridge cell with a real dc voltage source. This will yield a cost-effective converter. However, the required capacitor voltage balancing is challenging. In this paper, using t...

A 3D finite element model has been developed to study the mechanics of total knee replacements (TKRs). In particular, this study looked at the effects of certain design parameters on the stresses found in the meniscal insert component of a TKR. A primary reason for the failure of TKRs is failure of the meniscal insert. The meniscal insert is made from Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (U...