Parallel constrained coding with application to two-dimensionalconstraints

A parallel constrained coding scheme is considered where p-blocks of raw data are encoded simultaneously into q tracks such that the contents of each track belong to a given constraint S. It is shown that as q increases, there are parallel block-decodable encoders for S whose coding ratio p/q converges to the capacity of S. Examples are provided where parallel coding allows block-decodable encoders, while conventional coding, at the same rate, does not. Parallel encoders are then applied as building blocks in the construction of block-decodable encoders for certain families of two-dimensional constraints     

The Effect of Stunning Methods on Rigor Mortis and Texture Properties of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo Salar)

Shear force and rigor mortis were used to evaluate the post‐mortem changes of muscle texture in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). The fish were either stunned with carbon dioxide (CO₂), electricity, or percussion prior to slaughter. The pre‐mortem stress during CO₂ stunning resulted in an earlier onset and resolution of rigor mortis, and accelerated post‐mortem softening of the muscle tissue as compared to the other stunning methods. No significant differences, either in development of rigor mortis or shear force, were seen between fish that were stunned with electricity or by percussion. Consequently electricity can be used for stunning fish prior to slaughter.     

Quality of life following percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for claudication

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and the incidence of BCC is expected to rise, with increased demand on dermatology resources. Little is known of the effect on people's lives of having skin cancer. The aim of this study was to quantify the handicap caused gy basal cell carcinomas before and after therapy. Forty-four patients (22 males, mean age = 65 yrs, range = 35-81 yrs) with 48 BCCs were recruited and 37 patients completed the study. Each patient completed the UK Sickness Impact Profile (UKSIP) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) at the initial visit to the dermatology clinic, 1 week after treatment and 3 months after treatment. Lesions had been present for a mean of 25 months (range = 1-240 months), their mean diameter was 9.6mm (range = 3-35mm) and the sites were head and neck (79%), trunk (17%) and limbs (4%). There was no relationship between the quality of life score and size of lesion. Overall the scores at presentation were very low, rising 1 week after treatment and falling to below the initial scores at 3 months (mean UKSIP 0.4%, 0.7%, 0.13%; mean DLQI 5.3% 8.7%, 1.2%). BCCs cause little handicap. This may explain the delay in seeking medical attention and should be considered in planning public health education about BCCs.     

The role of dopamine in the mechanism of the regulation of the digestive-transport functions of the enterocyte membrane during stress

The L-DOPA and sulpiridinum effects on the enzymatic transporting function of the enterocytes' membrane, were studied in rats under stress. The L-DOPA was shown to hinder the absorption rate of glucose, whereas sulpiridinum was shown to suppress the main enzymes excepting snerase and alkaline phosphatase, to increase the monomeric and hydrolysate glucose transport. The L-DOPA seems to play a modifying role in the regulation and integration of the digestive-transporting function of the enterocytes' membrane in rats under stress.     

Generating layouts with non-convex envelopes

This paper presents a model (a development of the RDP model) which enables the generation of layouts with non-convex envelopes, as well as convex ones, according to design requirements.

The possibility of exhausting a great variety of solutions by this model, both with convex and non-convex envelopes, is demonstrated through a case study of planning a dwelling unit with 13 cells.     

Cervical spine infections

Thoracoscopy provides a minimally invasive technique for the diagnosis and management of many posterior mediastinal masses. Benign neurogenic tumors, esophageal tumors, and bronchogenic cysts all can be approached using video-assisted thoracic surgical (VATS) techniques. Malignant lesions are still best approached via open thoracotomy. VATS techniques allow for less pain and dysfunction and can result in shortened hospital stays.