transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus and interatrial communications:

, randomized seeding technique, we obtain an algorithm that is Θ(log k)-competitive with the optimal clustering. Preliminary experiments show that our augmentation improves both the speed and the accuracy of k-means, often quite dramatically.

such as program crashes, assertion violations, and non-termination. Preliminary experiments to unit test several examples of C programs are very encouraging.

proof that attests to the code's adherence to a previously defined safety policy. The host can then easily and quickly validate the proof without using cryptography and without consulting any external agents. In order to gain preliminary experience with PCC, we have performed several case studies

The third generation of the fluidic hand currently is in the process of clinical trial. The new hand combines functionality and cosmesis. It has the natural shape of a human hand and multiple new functions. The grasping operation is built in an adaptive way according to the biological example. This means that objects are enclosed with positive locking. The big contact area and soft passive elements considerably reduce the grasping force required to hold an object securely. Starting from a natural basic hand position, all actuators can be controlled individually by two myoelectrodes in the socket. The software allows for a quick selection of the most important grasping patterns. Besides the multifunctional control, features of the new hand like the force feedback system which gives the patient a sense of feeling and operation of a (computer) keyboard with the index will be depicted.

The mammalian acquired immune system is a robust and powerful information processing system that demonstrates features such as decentralised control, parallel processing, adaptation, and learning through experience. Artificial Immune Systems (AIS) are a class of machine-learning algorithms

June 2. Address correspondence to T.J.V. (e-mail:

and ap proximately 4000 findin nodes, with a number of ob served findings that varies per case. Due to the form of the noisy-or CPTs the complexity of inference is ex ponential in the number of positive findings Results Initial experiments The experimental protocol for the PYRAMID network was as follows

Fortran D is a version of Fortran enhanced with data decomposition specifications. Case studies illustrate strengths and weaknesses of the prototype Fortran D comprier when compiling hnear algebra codes and whole programs. Statement groups, execution conditions, inter-loop communication optimizations, multi-reductions, and array kills for rephcated arrays are identified as new compilation issues. On the Intel iPSC/860, the output of the proto- type Fortran D compiler approaches the performance of hand-optimized code for parallel computations, but needs improvement for hnear algebra and pipehned codes. The Fortran D compiler outperforms the CM Fortran compiler (2.1 beta) by a factor of four or more on the TMC CM-5 when not using vector units. Better analysis, run-time support, and flexibility are required for the prototype compiler to be useful for a wider range of programs.

Nesiritide is a recombinant formulation of brain-type natriuretic factor. Preliminary experience in the adult population suggests that nesiritide may be an effective agent in the treatment of decompensated congestive heart failure. Given its physiologic effects, it may be an effective agent