Malware detection is an important step in network security. Traditional malware detection methods suffer from the ability to learn, understand, process, and apply characteristics of network traffic data accurately, and in a relatively short space of time. It also cannot learn new tasks without forgetting the old tasks. In this paper, we propose a self-evolving malware detection (SEMD) method using network traffic and incremental learning. Incremental learning (IL) method is one of the important methods in deep learning, which can learn new tasks without forgetting the old tasks. Its loss function draws lessons from the idea of knowledge distillation. Experimental results show that the proposed method can recognize both old tasks and new tasks (overcoming the problem of catastrophic network forgetting). The performance of the proposed SEMD method is also better than the general method of incremental learning without self-evolving.

The proliferation of mobile communication systems, arrival of high-speed broadband networks and more complex network topologies have exacerbated cyber-threats. Cyber-warfare has become an aspect of modern war-fare that can no longer be overlooked. In recent years, network intrusions launched using the Internet have seriously undermined the security systems of many nations. Classifying malicious network traffic is the first step in network intrusion detection. In this paper, we propose three models using semi-supervised learning-based malicious traffic classification (MTC) methods that effectively improve the classification of traffic using a small proportion of labeled traffic data. Employing three different deep neural networks as feature extraction networks respectively, the proposed models use transductive transfer learning and domain adaptive ideas, and ladder networks as classification layers. Experimental results are provided to validate the proposed methods.

With the global transition to the IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6), IP (Internet Protocol) validation efficiency and IPv6 support from the aspect of network programming are gaining more importance. As global computer networks grow in the era of IoT (Internet of Things), IP address validation is an inevitable process for assuring strong network privacy and security. The complexity of IP validation has been increased due to the rather drastic change in the memory architecture needed for storing IPv6 addresses. Low-level programming languages like C/C++ are a great choice for handling memory spaces and working with simple devices connected in an IoT (Internet of Things) network. This paper analyzes some user-defined and open-source implementations of IP validation codes in Boost. Asio and POCO C++ networking libraries, as well as the IP security support provided for general networking purposes and IoT. Considering a couple of sample codes, the paper gives a conclusion on whether these C++ implementations answer the needs for flexibility and security of the upcoming era of IPv6 addressed computers.

Aim To determine risk factors responsible for developing postoperative complications after the thoracic aorta reconstructive surgery. Methods Medical records of 100 patients, who had undergone elective or emergency thoracic aorta reconstructive surgery at the Clinic for Cardiovascular Surgery, University Clinical Center Tuzla, were analysed. Intraoperative data as cross-clamp time (CCT), duration of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPBT) and hypothermic circulatory arrest time (HCAT) were evaluated. Univariate analysis was used to show risk factors for developing postoperative cardiac, respiratory, surgical and renal complications. Results Between May 2019 and April 2021, 48 Bentall procedures (BP), 23 ascending aortic replacements (AAR), 20 BP and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and 9 aortic valve replacements (AVR) with AAR were performed. Incidence of postoperative complications in the elective and emergency groups was as follows: respiratory 20% vs 38% (p=0.049), cardiac 18% vs 70% (p=0.015), renal 16% vs 48% (p=0.027) and surgical 4% vs 6% (p>0.05). Intrahospital 30 days morbidity was 44% with mortality rate of 13%. The results showed that CPBT>180 minutes was a risk factor for respiratory (p=0.034), cardiac (p=0.020) and renal (p=0.027) postoperative complications after acute type A aortic dissection surgery. Conclusion CPBT > 180 min is a risk factor for postoperative development of respiratory, cardiac and renal complications. Postoperative cardiac and renal complications were associated with longer HCAT.

BACKGROUND Specialty training in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery is a prerequisite for safe and effective provision of care. The aim of this study was to assess and portray similarities and differences in the continuing education and specialization in plastic surgery in Europe. MATERIAL AND METHODS A detailed questionnaire was designed and distributed utilizing an online survey administration software. Questions addressed core items regarding continuing education and specialization in plastic surgery in Europe. Participants were addressed directly via the European Leadership Forum (ELF) of the European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (ESPRAS). All participants had detailed knowledge of the organization and management of plastic surgical training in their respective country. RESULTS The survey was completed by 29 participants from 23 European countries. During specialization, plastic surgeons in Europe are trained in advanced tissue transfer and repair and aesthetic principles in all parts of the human body and within several subspecialties. Moreover, rotations in intensive as well as emergency care are compulsory in most European countries. Board certification is only provided for surgeons who have had multiple years of training regulated by a national board, who provide evidence of individually performed operative procedures in several anatomical regions and subspecialties, and who pass a final oral and/or written examination. CONCLUSION Board certified plastic surgeons meet the highest degree of qualification, are trained in all parts of the body and in the management of complications. The standard of continuing education and qualification of European plastic surgeons is high, providing an excellent level of plastic surgical care throughout Europe. HINTERGRUND Die Facharzt-Weiterbildung für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie ist eine Grundvoraussetzung für sichere und effektive Patientenversorgung. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war die Darstellung von Gemeinsamkeiten und Unterschieden in der Weiterbildung für Plastische Chirurgie innerhalb von Europa. MATERIALIEN UND METHODEN Ein internetbasierter Fragebogen wurde mit Hilfe eines kostenlosen Formularerstellungstools erstellt und verteilt. Die Fragen betrafen Kernpunkte der Weiterbildung für Plastische Chirurgie in Europa. Die Teilnehmer wurden direkt über das European Leadership Forum (ELF) der European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (ESPRAS) kontaktiert. Alle Teilnehmer hatten weitreichende Kenntnisse über die Organisation und Struktur der plastisch-chirurgischen Weiterbildung in ihrem jeweiligen Land. ERGEBNISSE 29 Teilnehmer*innen aus 23 europäischen Ländern nahmen an der Umfrage teil. Die Weiterbildung für Plastische Chirurgie beinhaltet grundlegende Prinzipien und Techniken zur Wiederherstellung von Form und Funktion innerhalb der verschiedenen Säulen der Plastischen Chirurgie, sowie in allen Körperregionen. In den meisten europäischen Ländern ist eine Rotation in der Intensiv- und Notfallmedizin und die Behandlung kritisch kranker Patienten obligatorisch. Voraussetzung für die Facharztbezeichnung ist die mehrjährige, national organisierte Weiterbildung, der Nachweis einer festgelegten Anzahl selbstständig durchgeführter Operationen, sowie die mündliche und/oder schriftliche Abschlussprüfung. SCHLUSSFOLGERUNG Fachärzte für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie sind hochqualifiziert und auch im Umgang mit Komplikationen geschult. Der Standard der Weiterbildung der europäischen Plastischen Chirurgen ist hoch, so dass innerhalb Europas eine hohe Qualität plastisch-chirurgischer Versorgung gewährleistet ist.

No abstract available.

Aim A standardized assessment for the optimal repair of hypospadias remains elusive. The aim of this study was to assess a postoperative cosmetic outcome of hypospadias repair using a validated questionnaire, Hypospadias Objective Scoring Evaluation (HOSE). Methods During the period between January 2016 and May 2019, 40 patients who underwent hypospadias repair were identified and they agreed to a follow-up using the HOSE. Distal hypospadias repairs underwent a cross-sectional assessment of the cosmetic outcome. Cosmetic assessment was performed by an independent physician using the HOSE scoring system. Results The native meatus was coronal in 10 (25%), subcoronal in eight (20%), and distal penile in 22 (55%) patients. Mean followup was 35.90 months (SD ±29.58) postoperatively (range 12-162 months). Complications occurred in one (2.5%) patient. Out of 40 uncomplicated repairs, 39 (97.5%) were satisfactory. A vertical slit-like meatus located at the distal glans was created in 33 (82.5%) boys, and at the proximal glans in seven (17.5%). The urinary stream was single and straight in 39 and spray in one patient. A straight erection was observed in 39 (97.5%) boys. The median HOSE score was 16 (range 12-16). One patient had a small, single coronal fistula. The technique used included tubularised incised plate urethroplasty. Conclusion The HOSE score is simple, easy, non-invasive and non-expensive tool for objective assessment of long-term outcomes of hypospadias repair.

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the biographical, professional, and health-educational works of Dr. Isak Samakovlija, who was better known as a writer than a doctor in the country where he was born. He was born in 1889 in Goražde, the easternmost province in the Austrian-Hungarian monarchy, into a modest Jewish merchant family. He attended high school in Sarajevo and completed his studies in medicine in Vienna in 1917. During the First World War, he served twice in the Austro-Hungarian army. After the end of the First World War in 1918, he completed a medical internship at the National Hospital in Sarajevo. He began his service as a doctor, first in Goražde and then in Fojnica and Sarajevo. After the establishment of the Independent State of Croatia in May 1941, he was dismissed from his duties in the service without the right to pension or support, and without the right to appeal. In the Independent State of Croatia, he was twice mobilized into the Home Guard and was manager of the clinic in the Alipašin Most refugee camp. After World War II, he was the head of the Health Education Department of the Ministry of Public Health of the People’s Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo. Together with a group of enthusiastic doctors, he founded and edited the first Bosnian medical journal Život i Zdravlje (Life and Health). In that journal, Dr. Samokovlija published 29 articles of health and educational content. In 1949, Dr. Samokovlija left the Ministry of Public Health and continued to edit the literature and art journal Brazda, but he still had a private practice until the end of his life. He died in Sarajevo on January 15, 1955. He was buried with the highest state honors at the Jewish cemetery in Sarajevo. Conclusion. Isak Samakovlija (1889-1955) was one of the first medical doctors born in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He made a significant contribution to the improvement of people’s health after the First and Second World Wars in the places where he worked. His special contribution are his articles on health education.

Background: During the process of the treatment of COVID-19 hospitalized patients, physicians still face a lot of unknowns and problems. Despite the application of the treatment protocol, it is still unknown why the medical status of a certain number of patients worsens and ends with death. Many factors were analyzed for the prediction of the clinical outcome of the patients using different methods. The aim of this paper was to develop a prediction model based on initial laboratory blood test results, accompanying comorbidities, and demographics to help physicians to better understand the medical state of patients with respect to possible clinical outcomes using neural networks, hypothesis testing, and confidence intervals. Methods: The research had retrospective-prospective, descriptive, and analytical character. As inputs for this research, 12 components of laboratory blood test results, six accompanying comorbidities, and demographics (age and gender) data were collected from hospital information system in Sarajevo for each patient from a sample of 634 hospitalized patients. Clinical outcome of the hospitalized patients, survival or death, was recorded 30 days after admission to the hospital. The prediction model was designed using a neural network. In addition, formal hypothesis tests were performed to investigate whether there were significant differences in laboratory blood test results and age between patients who died and those who survived, including the construction of 95% confidence intervals. Results: In this paper, 11 neural networks were developed with different threshold values to determine the optimal neural network with the highest prediction performance. The performances of the neural networks were evaluated by accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity. Optimal neural network model evaluation metrics are: accuracy = 87.78%, precision = 96.37%, sensitivity = 90.07%, and specificity = 62.16%. Significantly higher values (P < 0.05) of blood laboratory result components and age were detected in patients who died. Conclusion: Optimal neural network model, results of hypothesis tests, and confidence intervals could help to predict, analyze, and better understand the medical state of COVID-19 hospitalized patients and thus reduce the mortality rate.

SUMMARY Antibiotic therapy is indicated during acute cholecystitis. However, in the treatment of uncomplicated cholelithiasis, prophylactic use of antibiotics is controversial. Microbiological and laboratory data are the basis for the choice of antibiotic treatment. However, monitoring and updating local antibiograms is important because they ensure effective therapy in the given clinical environment. The study included 110 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, divided into the group of uncomplicated cholelithiasis (n=60) and the group of acute cholecystitis (n=50). Preoperative data included age, sex, body mass index, leukocytes, C-reactive protein, and ultrasound examination. Bile samples for bacteriological testing were obtained under aseptic conditions during the surgery. Cultures were evaluated for aerobic, anaerobic and fungal organisms using routine tests. After the surgery, gallbladder specimens were sent for histopathological examination. In the group of uncomplicated cholelithiasis, 6/60 positive samples were found, and in the group of acute cholecystitis, there were 25/50 positive microbiological findings. Citrobacter sp. and Enterococcus faecalis predominated in the group of uncomplicated cholelithiasis, and Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Proteus mirabilis and Citrobacter sp. in the group of acute cholecystitis. Antibiotics were administered to 49/50 patients with acute cholecystitis and to 32/60 patients with uncomplicated cholelithiasis. Cefazolin was the most frequently used antibiotic and also the most resistant antibiotic. To conclude, the administration of antibiotics in elective patients is not justified. The results of this study indicate that third-generation cephalosporin or ciprofloxacin + metronidazole should be administered in mild and moderate acute cholecystitis, and fourth-generation cephalosporin + metronidazole in severe acute cholecystitis in this local setting. The appropriate use of antibiotic agents is crucial and should be integrated into good clinical practice and standards of care.

Summary This project aims to assess and analyse the perception and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Benin. The applied research methodology was interdisciplinary and combined field studies that used ethnographic and social research methods with coding and data analysis, leading to theoretical dilemmas, which were analysed from the viewpoint of bioethical reflection. Furthermore, biomedical engineering approaches were used to assess the preparedness to COVID-19. Despite the preparedness to COVID-19 due to the promoted governmental measures, a peculiar management of the pandemic emerged. The latter, although noteworthy, did not overcome the typical challenges of medical locations in low-resource settings. This, together with the controversial spread of information and local beliefs, caused significant economic and social consequences, exceeding the benefits related to the containment of the virus. This research highlights how the emotion of fear, in this specific situation, was herald of dramatic consequences, rather than having a heuristic and empowering effect.