Abstract
A cartographic-oriented model uses algebraic map operations to perform spatial analysis of medical data relative to the human body. A prototype system uses 3D visualization techniques to deliver analysis results. A prototype implementation suggests the model might provide the basis for a medical application tool that introduces new information insight. © 2008 IEEE.

Abstract
This paper presents a network architecture for provisioning communal Internet access services to residential customers. The advantages of adopting the proposed architecture are enumerated both for Internet Service Providers (ISP) and residential clients. The paper presents also the CommGate, a gateway specially developed for managing the network traffic through multiple communal accesses,. Tests were carried out simulating several community scenarios with different number of customers and generating different traffic loads. The results allow us to conclude about the performance of the CommGate and the benefits of the proposed architecture.

Abstract
In this paper, we analyze the timing behavior of the EDCA communication mechanism defined in the IEEE 802.11e standard, when it is used to support real-time (RT) traffic. In the context of this paper RT traffic means small sized packets generated in periodic intervals, which must be delivered before the end of the message stream period. Otherwise. the message is considered to be delayed and a deadline loss occurs. The tat-get of this paper is to understand the limitations of the highest priority level of the EDCA mechanism (voice category) when supporting RT communication. We have assessed this mechanism considering an open communication environment, where there are RT and non-RT stations operating in the same frequency band. Furthermore, a realistic error-prone model channel was used to measure the impact of interferences against an error-free channel. we show that in the most cases evaluated, both the number of packet losses and the average packet delays forecast an unacceptable number of deadline losses for the RT Message streams, even for intermediate load cases. As a conclusion of this paper, we present some potential future directions toward improved QoS in wireless networks.

Abstract
Plantain (Plantago spp.) is generally considered to be an anemophilous plant that produces pollen of low nutritional value to bees. Between April and September during 2002 and 2003, in two regions in northwestern Portugal, we studied both the pollen collected by honey bee colonies and airborne pollen. Plantain pollen collection by honey bees was observed only in three different periods, despite its continuous presence in the air. This behaviour was related to the beginning and ending of flowering of the honey bee's main nutritional pollen sources, with no other factor seemingly influencing the temporal collecting patterns. The collection of Plantago spp. pollen was observed in the gaps between the flowering of Eucalyptus spp., chestnut (Castanea sativa), wild blackberry (Rubus spp.) and heaths (Ericaceae family). The results suggest that pollen of Plantago species seems to be used by honey bees as a substitute for other more nutritious pollen types and is collected only as a supplementary source. The temporal patterns of Plantago pollen collection by honey bees could therefore be used as a valuable ecological indicator of periods with low availability of highly nutritious pollen sources.

Abstract
Objective The main goal of the CHUB (cartographic human body) model is to introduce a cartographic approach that can assist the analysis, visualization and diagnosis of medical images and related data. Method Acartographic model is proposed as a reference framework for the development of computer systems and applications. This model accommodates subtle spatial features of these data that may facilitate diagnosis. Medical images and related data are structured into different "human-referenced" information layers. Algebraic map operations are used to combine these layers and achieve greater insights into the information content. Results Two case studies were considered to evaluate and validate the model: hydrokinetic therapy and the diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis. A prototype based on the CHUB model was implemented and two different approaches were performed to test and evaluate it. Full acceptance of the model was achieved by clinicians who used the CHUB system. Conclusion Acartographic model provides a feasible means for analyzing and visualizing medical image and related data. CHUB is a suitable model that may be used as a common framework for systems, applications and/or support tools that analyze and visualize medical images and related data (for example, in disease diagnosis).

Abstract
The residential networking market is evolving and new operating paradigms are emerging. The ubiquitous use of Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) networks is increasing the demands on SOHO routers. These economical network elements, however, are too simple to deal with the high demands of their users, especially in residential settings where P2P, video and VoIP traffic is becoming predominant. This paper presents a communal gateway CommGate - that enables individuals in a building to share multiple communal Internet links and service facilities. The paper presents also some tests simulating several user communities with different number of customers characterized by different profiles (cf. Gold, Silver and Bronze) and generating different traffic loads. These tests illustrate the benefits of using the CommGate and the usefulness of the proposed communal architecture.