Abstract: A monitoring system includes one or more monitoring devices, positioned in sewer manholes, storm drains, etc., and a remote monitoring station that communicates wirelessly therewith. The monitoring device may be an integrated unit, including sensors, a two-way telemetry unit, a power supply, a processor, and supporting hardware, all located in an enclosed, waterproof housing. The monitoring device is placed within a manhole cavity to obtain depth (e.g., water level) measurements, images, and other data, and report the measurements back to the remote monitoring station, which analyzes the data and responds to alert messages when a dangerous water level is detected. An additional sensor may monitor the manhole cover for security purposes. A distributed mesh network of wireless nodes may be used to relay communications from the monitoring devices along alternative paths, through bridge nodes that may connect to a public wireless or cellular network.

Abstract: Inflammation, acute and/or chronic, is treated with a CIF (TGF-beta). The CIF may be administered locally or systemically, depending upon the indication, and does not require coadministration of activator or cofactor for efficacy.

Abstract: Collagen implants that are useful as wound healing matrices are characterized by being formed of collagen fibrils that are not chemically cross-linked, and having a bulk density of 0.01 to 0.3 g/cm.sup.3 and a pore population in which at least about 80% of the pores have an average pore size of 35 to 250 microns. The implants are capable of promoting connective tissue deposition, angiogenesis, reepithelialization, and fibroplasia. The wound healing matrix also serves an an effective sustained delivery system for synergistic combinations of FGF and TGF-B.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in correlating actual tape play times, tape length, or predetermined tape program locations with tape-spool revolution values provided by a tape-revolution index counter in a tape machine. The calculator has a lower circular base plate and a smaller, upper circular plate which rotates concentrically with respect to the lower plate. The base plate carries a scale corresponding to tape-spool revolution values indicated by the machine, and one or more time scales relating tape spool revolution values to actual tape-play times, and/or to remaining play times or program locations. A ratio marker and time scale indicator are positioned on the upper member such that alignment of the ratio marker with a selected tape-revolution value on the base plate brings the time scale indicator into alignment with the corresponding playing-time value on the base plate.

Abstract: A method of treating a solid tumor, including the steps of localizing the tumor and the arterial vessel that supplies it, and injecting into the vessel, a vaso-occlusive collagen material adapted to produce occlusion of vessels having lumen diameters between about 10 and 150 microns. The injected material is effective to produce occlusion of the secondary and tertiary vessels supplying the tumor, distal to the collateral blood vessels which may also supply the tumor. The region of the occluded tumor is heated under conditions that produce tissue necrosis selectively in the occluded tumor tissue.