Environment In Conjunction Research Articles

Accentuating the sources of mesenchymal stem cells as cellular therapy for osteoarthritis knees-a panoramic review.

The large economic burden on the global health care systems is due to the increasing number of symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA) knee patients whereby accounting for greater morbidity and impaired functional quality of life. The recent developments and impulses in molecular and regenerative medicine have paved the way for inducing the biological active cells such as stem cells, bioactive materials, and growth factors towards the healing and tissue regenerative process. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) act as a minimally invasive procedure that bridges the gap between pharmacological treatment and surgical treatment for OA. MSCs are the ideal cell-based therapy for treating disorders under a minimally invasive environment in conjunction with cartilage regeneration. Due to the worldwide recognized animal model for such cell-based therapies, global researchers have started using the various sources of MSCs towards cartilage regeneration. However, there is a lacuna in literature on the comparative efficacy and safety of various sources of MSCs in OA of the knee. Hence, the identification of a potential source for therapeutic use in this clinical scenario remains unclear. In this article, we compared the therapeutic effects of various sources of MSCs in terms of efficacy, safety, differentiation potential, durability, accessibility, allogenic preparation and culture expandability to decide the optimal source of MSCs for OA knee.

Assessment of Environmental Changes of Valley of the Undytkan River in Impact Zone of the Elginsky Coal Complex and the Railway Track “Ulak- Elga” with Use of Ground and Remote Methods

Environmental monitoring studies are of primary importance to assess the characteristics of anthropogenic changes in the environment on the territory of the Elginsky coking coal deposit, which is one of the largest resource potential of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). Due to the inaccessibility and territorial remoteness of the field, remote research methods are a valuable tool for environmental monitoring. The article shows the experience of using the satellite image analysis method for assessing anthropogenic impact and spatial detection of changes in the components of the natural environment in conjunction with field study. On the territory of the Elginsky deposit there is a complex of production, infrastructure and linear structures: coal mine, processing plant, hydraulic structures, shift camp, power transmission lines, roads and railways, as well as a railroad bridge under construction. Technical structures interact with the components of the natural environment and modify them, forming geotechnical (geotechnical) systems. Two geotechnical systems were considered in the article: (a) ‘Elginsky coal mining complex - natural environment’ and (b) ‘River – Bridge’ on the Undytkan River, formed as a result of interaction of the valley of the Undytkan River and a complex of linear road structures of railway track “Ulak – Elga”. And the analysis of high-resolution satellite images, as well as data from expeditionary ground-based studies, made it possible to establish that the formation and functioning of the transport geotechnical system led to a change in a number of components of the natural environment — mesorelief, hydrological parameters of surface waters, inhibition of vegetation cover, and changes in soils associated with increased water level, as well as with icing processes.

Strategic, Legal, and Accounting Challenges for Social Enterprises

Purpose-This study is to trigger an integration of strategic, legal, and accounting issues relating to the formation and operation of social enterprises. It provides a conceptual model to facilitate debate, research, and practical approaches to aspiring social entrepreneurs. Design/Methodology/Approach-The study utilizes a secondary research method. It reviews literature from classical business and entrepreneurship to law and accounting journals and overcomes the complexity of topics to create a holistic approach to social entrepreneurs' challenges and opportunities. Findings-It provides a vantage point of the distinctive nature of social entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial motivations. It explores the advantages of legal and accounting challenges in forming a Low-Profit Limited Liability Company (L3C). In particular, it delineates the intricacies between an L3C, a limited liability company (LLC), and not-for-profits. Finally, it offers a conceptual model for further research and a set of practical implications. Research limitations/implications-It invites investigation of the strategic formation of social enterprises. Specifically, exploring the external environment in conjunction with strategic behavior, capabilities, law, and accounting challenges. It provides a conceptual model for further investigation of the significant dynamics of social enterprises. Practical implications-The creation of the conceptual model provides a guiding start for research, debate, and practical guidelines for aspiring entrepreneurs by integrating strategic, legal, and accounting challenges and opportunities. Social implications-The proliferation of social enterprises provides solutions to social challenges while entrepreneurs generate profit. It provides a dimension to a socially conscious person to engage in enterprises. Finally, it may provide a new paradigm for new capitalism that deliberately combines social and financial benefits. Originality/Value-This study develops a conceptual model to explain the complexity and dynamics of social entrepreneurship and provide exposure to social enterprises' legal and accounting challenges and opportunities.

YAP Orchestrates Heterotypic Endothelial Cell Communication via HGF/c-MET Signaling in Liver Tumorigenesis.

The oncogene yes-associated protein (YAP) controls liver tumor initiation and progression via cell extrinsic functions by creating a tumor-supporting environment in conjunction with cell autonomous mechanisms. However, how YAP controls organization of the microenvironment and in particular the vascular niche, which contributes to liver disease and hepatocarcinogenesis, is poorly understood. To investigate heterotypic cell communication, we dissected murine and human liver endothelial cell (EC) populations into liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) and continuous endothelial cells (CEC) through histomorphological and molecular characterization. In YAPS127A-induced tumorigenesis, a gradual replacement of LSECs by CECs was associated with dynamic changes in the expression of genes involved in paracrine communication. The formation of new communication hubs connecting CECs and LSECs included the hepatocyte growth factor (Hgf)/c-Met signaling pathway. In hepatocytes and tumor cells, YAP/TEA domain transcription factor 4 (TEAD4)-dependent transcriptional induction of osteopontin (Opn) stimulated c-Met expression in EC with CEC phenotype, which sensitized these cells to the promigratory effects of LSEC-derived Hgf. In human hepatocellular carcinoma, the presence of a migration-associated tip-cell signature correlated with poor clinical outcome and the loss of LSEC marker gene expression. The occurrence of c-MET-expressing CECs in human liver cancer samples was confirmed at the single-cell level. In summary, YAP-dependent changes of the liver vascular niche comprise the formation of heterologous communication hubs in which tumor cell-derived factors modify the cross-talk between LSECs and CECs via the HGF/c-MET axis. SIGNIFICANCE: YAP-dependent changes of the liver vascular niche comprise the formation of heterologous communication hubs in which tumor cell-derived factors modify the cross-talk between EC subpopulations. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/80/24/5502/F1.large.jpg.

Characterization and Manipulation of Carbon Precursor Species during Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition of Graphene.

To develop a synthesis technique providing enhanced control of graphene film quality and uniformity, a systematic characterization and manipulation of hydrocarbon precursors generated during plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of graphene is presented. Remote ionization of acetylene is observed to generate a variety of neutral and ionized hydrocarbon precursors, while in situ manipulation of the size and reactivity of carbon species permitted to interact with the growth catalyst enables control of the resultant graphene morphology. Selective screening of high energy hydrocarbon ions coupled with a multistage bias growth regime results in the production of 90% few-to-monolayer graphene on 50 nm Ni/Cu alloy catalysts at 500 °C. Additionally, synthesis with low power secondary ionization processes is performed and reveals further control during the growth, enabling a 50% reduction in average defect densities throughout the film. Mass spectrometry and UV-Vis spectroscopy monitoring of the reaction environment in conjunction with Raman characterization of the synthesized graphene films facilitates correlation of the carbon species permitted to reach the catalyst surface to the ultimate quality, layer number, and uniformity of the graphene film. These findings reveal a robust technique to control graphene synthesis pathways during plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition.

Correlation of clinico-pathologic data with inflammatory cells infiltration in colorectal cancer

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. At every phase of cancer development, the inflammatory process has an important impact. Accurate assessment inflammatory cells in the tumour environment in conjunction with clinico-pathologic features can be a relevant prognostic or predictive parameter. Purpose: To analyse inflammatory cell infiltration in CRC tumour mass and correlate with chosen clinico-pathologic parameters. Materials and methods: The study group consisted of 160 patients (64 women, 96 men) diagnosed with colorectal cancer who underwent surgery. Tissue material obtained from routine histopathological diagnosis was stained with H&E and used to assess the type of inflammatory cells in the invasive front and centre of the tumour. Results were subjected to statistical analysis with the age and gender of patients, tumour localization, tumour growth and size, TNM stage, adenocarcinoma type, fibrosis, necrosis, metastasis and tumour invasion (by the Spearman’s correlation coefficient test). Results: The presence of neutrophils in the invasive front of tumour mass was associated with fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration in the invasive front of tumour. Macrophages in the invasive front of tumour were found to correlate with tumour growth (expanding and infiltrate). Macrophages and eosinophils were associated with inflammatory cell infiltration in the invasive front and in the centre of tumour. Conclusions: The type of inflammatory cells in the invasive front or centre of the tumour may be useful to prognoses clinical features of colorectal cancer

Outcomes from applying the inverted classroom to a first-year structures module

The Institution of Structural Engineers has recently invested considerable effort in the thorny problem of how to improve understanding of structural behaviour among undergraduate students. This paper, based on a winning entry to the Institution’s Excellence in Structural Engineering Education Award 2015, provides an account of action research in the application of inverted classroom principles to teaching first-year undergraduate civil engineering students, which was undertaken as a response to disappointing academic performance of the 2012/13 cohort. The process was based around a virtual learning environment. The effect upon engagement was better than expected, and demonstrated that it is possible to engineer enhanced performance by increasing student interaction with a virtual learning environment in conjunction with a structured learning schedule.

Environmental variables likely influence the periphytic diatom community in a subtropical lotic environment

We evaluated the response of diatom community relative to environmental changes with the aim of characterizing and comparing, along a linear gradient, three environments across the Cascavel River microbasin with distinct land-uses. In June 2016, 10 substrates were collected for periphyton extraction in locations with different land-uses (conservation, urban, and agriculture respectively). One-hundred and nine infrageneric taxa and 30 genera were found. Eunotia and Gomphonema presented elevated and representative taxa richness at all stations, with totals of 14 and 11 respectively. Pinnularia and Navicula (12 and 8 taxa respectively) were significant indicators at the more upstream points; while Encyonema, Achnanthidium and Navicula (5, 5, and 6 taxa respectively) occurred primarily downstream. The sampling stations were quite distinct in their densities, species richness, and physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. The tests showed a significant difference among the stations based on the species abundance matrix. Upstream points, within the conservation area, revealed high Eunotia density, high nitrate concentrations and low pH. The urbanized area was characterized by greater exposure to light associated with elevated electrical conductivity and high ammoniacal nitrogen concentration, favoring the cosmopolitan species development such as Gomphonema lagenula, Gomphonema exilissimum and Fragilaria gracilis. The agricultural area exhibited elevated flow, a factor limiting the colonization of species and favoring the development of Achnanthidium and Fragilaria species. The distribution of the community across the microbasin were related to flow, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, nitrate, ammonia, and total coliforms, confirming the distinctiveness among the environments. Except for spatial autocorrelation, there wasn’t a single environmental filtering explanation for the diatom community variation. The abiotic variables differentiated the environment in conjunction with the spatial variation. Along the river, physical characteristics such as depth, water volume, flow, solar incidence, concentration of solids, and temperature varied, directly interfer with the periphytic community’s primary production.

Interaction of energy-material flows in gas-liquid environments

The article deals with the features of the flow of energy-material transformations in sugar-containing environments of anaerobic fermentation. Endogenous processes - the synthesis of carbon dioxide, the synthesis of ethyl alcohol and the allocation of thermal energy - are estimated as primary with appropriate support based on the chemical energy of sugars. These three processes are accompanied by secondary energy-material manifestations in the following list: mass transfer between yeast cells and the medium; heat transfer between the medium and the cooling surface; creation of local cooled zones with a convective circulating contour; synthesis of the dispersed gas phase with the corresponding component of the circulating circuit; creation of a concentration gradient based on СО 2 by hydrostatic pressure; creation of a driving factor in the form of Archimedes forces in action on the dispersed gas phase and, accordingly, on the liquid phase; vertical mixing of the environment in conjunction with the processes of its saturation and desaturation in local areas at the level of gravity processes. The mathematical formalizations concerning the named secondary energy-material processes with suggestions on improvement and organization of their flow are offered. The basis of the phenomenological analysis of the physical nature of the formation and existence of secondary energy material flows is the laws of thermodynamics, mechanics, hydromechanics, solubility of gases in their flow in a gravitational field under conditions of alternating pressures. It is shown that the natural course of transition processes should be strengthened by additional organized influences.

Threat Assessment for Android Environment with Connectivity to IoT Devices from the Perspective of Situational Awareness

As smartphones such as mobile devices become popular, malicious attackers are choosing them as targets. The risk of attack is steadily increasing as most people store various personal information such as messages, contacts, and financial information on their smartphones. Particularly, the vulnerabilities of the installed operating systems (e.g., Android, iOS, etc.) are trading at a high price in the black market. In addition, the development of the Internet of Things (IoT) technology has created a hyperconnected society in which various devices are connected to one network. Therefore, the safety of the smartphone is becoming an important factor to remotely control these technologies. A typical attack method that threatens the security of such a smartphone is a method of inducing installation of a malicious application. However, most studies focus on the detection of malicious applications. This study suggests a method to evaluate threats to be installed in the Android OS environment in conjunction with machine learning algorithms. In addition, we present future direction from the cyber threat intelligence perspective and situational awareness, which are the recent issues.

Bending and vibration analysis of skew sandwich plate

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop a general mathematical model for the evaluation of the bending and vibration responses of the skew sandwich composite plate using higher-order shear deformation theory. The sandwich structural components are highly preferable in modern engineering application because of their desirable structural advantages despite the manufacturing and analysis complexities. The present model is developed to solve the bending and vibration problem of the skew sandwich composite plate with adequate accuracy numerically in the absence of the experimental analysis. Design/methodology/approach The skew sandwich composite plate structure is modelled in the present analysis by considering laminated face sheet in conjunction with isotropic and/or orthotropic core numerically with the help of the higher-order mathematical model. Further, the responses are computed numerically with the help of in-house computer code developed in matrix laboratory (MATLAB) environment in conjunction with finite element (FE) steps. The system governing equations are derived via variational technique for the computation of the static and the frequency responses. Findings The skew sandwich composite plate is investigated using the higher-order kinematic model where the transverse displacement through the thickness is considered to be linear. The convergence and the validation study of the bending and the frequency values of the sandwich structure indicate the necessary accuracy. Further, the current model has been used to highlight the applicability of the higher-order kinematics for the evaluation of the sandwich structural responses (frequency and static deflections) for different design parameters. Originality/value In the present paper, the bending and the vibration responses of the skew sandwich composite plate are analysed numerically using the equivalent single-layer higher-order kinematic theory for the isotropic and the orthotropic core numerically with the help of isoparametric FE steps. Finally, it is understood that the present model is capable of solving the sandwich structural responses with less computation cost and adequate accuracy.

Effects of an oxygen potential gradient and water vapor on mass transfer in polycrystalline alumina at high temperatures

The mass transfer mechanisms in polycrystalline alumina wafers serving as models for anti-oxidation films were investigated by evaluating oxygen permeability at 1873 K using 18O2 as a tracer. The grain boundary (GB) diffusion coefficients for oxygen in the vicinity of the higher oxygen partial pressure (PO2(hi)) surface were directly determined from the secondary ion mass spectrometry line profile for each GB, obtained from cross-sections of the exposed wafer. An especially interesting result was that, under dry conditions, the oxygen GB diffusivity obtained with an applied oxygen potential gradient (dμO) was significantly lower than that associated with oxygen self-diffusion in the absence of a dμO. Moreover, the contribution of electronic conductivity near the PO2(hi) surface was increased upon applying a dμO. The addition of H2O to the PO2(hi) environment in conjunction with a dμO accelerated oxygen GB diffusion, while the presence of D2O retarded the diffusivity compared to that observed under dry conditions. However, in the absence of a dμO, the oxygen GB diffusivity was essentially equal to that under dry conditions. The dissociative adsorption reactions of H2O or D2O over the entire PO2(hi) surface appear to greatly affect the diffusivity of oxygen and aluminum on the surface and along the GBs in the vicinity of the surface.

Smart NMR Method of Measurement of Moisture Content of Vegetables During Microwave Vacuum Drying

Microwave drying is usually combined with vacuum environment in conjunction with hot air flow to draw the moisture rapidly. The moisture content of the vegetables undergoing drying is hard to measure online. This research designed a microwave vacuum drying (MVD)-low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) smart device and investigated the feasibility of NMR method for online measurement of state of moisture during MVD. The relation between the signal amplitude (A 2) and the true moisture content (M 1) of six kinds of vegetables (mushroom, carrot, potato, lotus, edamame, vegetable corn) was fitted to estimate if NMR can measure the M 1 of vegetables directly. Results showed that A 2 and M 1 of different fresh vegetables had no single empirical mathematical model to fit. However, for each kind of these vegetables, the A 2 and corresponding M 1 in different MVD stages showed a significant linear relationship. The predicted moisture content (M 2) of mushroom: M 2 = 5.25351 × 10−4 A 2 − 0.34042, R = 0.996; carrot: M 2 = 5.78756 × 10−4 A 2 − 0.14108, R = 0.998; potato: M 2 = 3.10019 × 10−4 A 2 − 0.10612, R = 0.991; lotus: M 2 = 2.32415 × 10−4 A 2 − 0.01573, R = 0.998; edamame: M 2 = 3.13310 × 10−4 A 2 − 0.4198, R = 0.996; vegetable corn: M 2 = 1.69461 × 10−4 A 2 − 0.09063, R = 0.995. The linear models between M 2 and A 2 were able to estimate the end point (M 1 0.950).

Hierarchical role for transcription factors and chromatin structure in genome organization along adipogenesis.

All sequence data reported in this paper have been deposited at GEO (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/) (GSE92475).

Using exposure prediction tools to link exposure and dosimetry for risk-based decisions: A case study with phthalates

A few different exposure prediction tools were evaluated for use in the new in vitro-based safety assessment paradigm using di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DnBP) as case compounds. Daily intake of each phthalate was estimated using both high-throughput (HT) prediction models such as the HT Stochastic Human Exposure and Dose Simulation model (SHEDS-HT) and the ExpoCast heuristic model and non-HT approaches based on chemical specific exposure estimations in the environment in conjunction with human exposure factors. Reverse dosimetry was performed using a published physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for phthalates and their metabolites to provide a comparison point. Daily intakes of DEHP and DnBP were estimated based on the urinary concentrations of their respective monoesters, mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) and monobutyl phthalate (MnBP), reported in NHANES (2011–2012). The PBPK-reverse dosimetry estimated daily intakes at the 50th and 95th percentiles were 0.68 and 9.58 μg/kg/d and 0.089 and 0.68 μg/kg/d for DEHP and DnBP, respectively. For DEHP, the estimated median from PBPK-reverse dosimetry was about 3.6-fold higher than the ExpoCast estimate (0.68 and 0.18 μg/kg/d, respectively). For DnBP, the estimated median was similar to that predicted by ExpoCast (0.089 and 0.094 μg/kg/d, respectively). The SHEDS-HT prediction of DnBP intake from consumer product pathways alone was higher at 0.67 μg/kg/d. The PBPK-reverse dosimetry-estimated median intake of DEHP and DnBP was comparable to values previously reported for US populations. These comparisons provide insights into establishing criteria for selecting appropriate exposure prediction tools for use in an integrated modeling platform to link exposure to health effects.

Influence of a Dispersant on the Types and Growth of Microbial Hydrocarbon Degraders in a Crude Oil-contaminated Medium.

Background:Dispersants are first order response strategies for oil spill cleanup in an aquatic environment. However, their effects on the biodegradation capacity of indigenous hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms are little known.Objectives:The influence of a dispersant (DS/TT/066) on the type(s) and growth of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria (HDB) and hydrocarbon-degrading fungi (HDF) in a crude oil-contaminated medium (water) was investigated in the laboratory for 28 days.Methods:The experiment was set up in duplicates with the first set containing Forcados light crude oil (FLCO) alone in water while the other was a mixture of FLCO and DS/TT/066 (ratio 9:1 v/v). Identification and enumeration of HDB and HDF were conducted according to standard methods. Total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in the test media was analyzed using a gas chromatography/flame ionization detector.Results:The results showed that HDB identified in the FLCO alone included Pseudomonas aeruginosa (day 0), Proteus vulgaris (day 14), P. aeruginosa and Kliebsiella pneumoniae (day 28). However, in the mixture, Escherichia coli was identified on day 14 in addition to the other species observed in FLCO alone. HDF identified in FLCO alone were Candida krusei and Candida albicans (days 0 and 14), Trichosporon cutaneum and C. albicans (day 28). In the mixture, HDF identified were C. albicans (day 0), C. albicans and Aspergillus spp. (days 14 and 28)″ Furthermore, the mixture enhanced the growth of HDBF (average counts: 32.5 × 107 and 225 × 106 cfu/mL) compared to FLCO alone (17.5 × 107 and 17.5 × 106 cfu/mL) by day 14 respectively. Total petroleum hydrocarbon reduction was highest (85%) in the mixture compared to 5% in FLCO alone by day 14.Conclusions:The study demonstrated the biodegradation efficiency of E. coli, P. vulgaris (bacteria), C. albicans and Aspergillus spp. (fungi) in a crude oil-contaminated aquatic environment in conjunction with dispersant use. Further studies in the field are recommended in order to explore their potential for rapid and large scale crude oil clean-up operations.

Tourism Resort Destination Systems: Genetic Classification and Spatial Management

This paper suggests that different kind of tourism resort destination locates at various districts with different characteristics of natural setting and ecologic environment. Based on the comprehensive analysis of geological setting and natural environment in conjunction with ecologic condition, the genetic classification and environment, but the spatial management for different kinds of genetic tourism resort destinations as well have been discussed. Tourist resort destinations can be divided into following nine genetic types, including. mountainous-, forest-, hot spring-, lakeside/riverside-, sunshine-, ancient town-, urban-, village-, and integrated-types. Finally, various functional framework characteristics and spatial management of tourism resort destinations have also been put forward.

Clinical Significance of Circulating CD33+CD11b+HLA-DR- Myeloid Cells in Patients with Stage IV Melanoma Treated with Ipilimumab.

High levels of circulating myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in various cancer types, including melanoma, were shown to correlate with poor survival. We investigated whether frequencies of circulating CD33+CD11b+HLA-DR- MDSCs could be used as immune system monitoring biomarkers to predict response and survival of patients with stage IV melanoma treated with anti-CTLA4 (ipilimumab) therapy. Peripheral blood samples from 56 patients and 50 healthy donors (HDs) were analyzed for CD33+CD11b+HLA-DR- MDSC percentage, NO-, and hROS levels by flow cytometry. We determined whether MDSC levels and suppressive features detected before anti-CTLA4 therapy correlate with the patients' response and overall survival (OS). Patients with melanoma had significantly higher levels of circulating CD33+CD11b+HLA-DR- MDSCs with suppressive phenotype when compared with HDs. Low levels of MDSCs before CTLA-4 therapy correlated with an objective clinical response, long-term survival, increased CD247 expression in T cells, and an improved clinical status. No predictive impact was observed for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Kaplan-Meier and log-rank tests performed on the 56 patients showed that the presence of more than 55.5% of circulating CD33+CD11b+ out of the HLA-DR- cells, were associated with significant short OS (P < 0.003), a median of 6.5 months, in comparison with the group showing lower MDSC frequencies, with a median survival of 15.6 months. Our study suggests the use of CD33+CD11b+HLA-DR- cells as a predictive and prognostic biomarker in patients with stage IV melanoma treated with anti-CTLA4 therapy. This monitoring system may aid in the development of combinatorial modalities, targeting the suppressive environment in conjunction with iplimumab, toward facilitating better disease outcomes. Clin Cancer Res; 22(23); 5661-72. ©2016 AACR.

A multidisciplinary design and analysis environment and its application to aircraft flight dynamics analysis

Abstract Complex engineering problems have to be jointly solved by many disciplinary teams with multitudinous computational software packages and physical experiment systems. Thus, the efficiency and effectiveness of solving complex engineering problems largely depend on effective collaboration among specialist engineers, seamless integration of disparate cyber-physical systems, and transparent interoperations of heterogeneous data sources. This paper presents a multidisciplinary design and analysis (MDA) environment in conjunction with its application to aircraft flight dynamics analyses. The MDA infrastructure builds a cybernetic platform that integrates structure analysis and flow computation systems with wind tunnel experiment systems; reconciles and interoperates diverse data sources generated by the cyber-physical systems. It is demonstrated that application of the MDA environment cost-effectively enhances work efficiency, team collaboration, and solution optimality in aircraft flight dynamics engineering processes.

Inflammation rapidly reorganizes mouse bone marrow B cells and their environment in conjunction with early IgM responses

AbstractSystemic inflammation perturbs the bone marrow environment by evicting resident B cells and favoring granulopoiesis over lymphopoiesis. Despite these conditions, a subset of marrow B cell remains to become activated and produce potent acute immunoglobulin M (IgM) responses. This discrepancy is currently unresolved and a complete characterization of early perturbations in the B-cell niche has not been undertaken. Here, we show that within a few hours of challenging mice with adjuvant or cecal puncture, B cells accumulate in the bone marrow redistributed away from sinusoid vessels. This response correlates with enhanced sensitivity to CXC chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) but not CXCL13 or CC chemokine ligand 21. Concurrently, a number of B-cell survival and differentiation factors are elevated to produce a transiently supportive milieu. Disrupting homing dynamics with a CXC chemokine receptor 4 inhibitor reduced the formation of IgM-secreting cells. These data highlight the rapidity with which peripheral inflammation modifies the marrow compartment, and demonstrate that such modifications regulate acute IgM production within this organ. Furthermore, our study indicates that conversion to a state of emergency granulopoiesis is temporally delayed, allowing B cells opportunity to respond to antigen.