bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping of Ice Motion in Antarctica Using Synthetic-Aperture Radar Data
Authors: Mouginot Jeremie , Scheuchl Bernd , Rignot Eric
Published: September 2012

Ice velocity is a fundamental parameter in studying the dynamics of ice sheets. Until recently, no complete mapping of Antarctic ice motion had been available due to calibration uncertainties and lack of basic data. Here, we present a method for calibrating and mosaicking an ensemble of InSAR satellite measurements of ice motion from six sensors: the Japanese ALOS PALSAR, the European Envisat ASAR, ERS-1 and ERS-2, and the Canadian RADARSAT-1 and RADARSAT-2. Ice motion calibration is made difficult by the sparsity of in-situ reference points and the shear size of the study area. A sensor-dependent data stacking scheme is applied to reduce measurement uncertainties. The resulting ice velocity mosaic has errors in magnitude ranging from 1 m/yr in the interior regions to 17 m/yr in coastal sectors and errors in flow direction ranging from less than 0.5° in areas of fast flow to unconstrained direction in sectors of slow motion. It is important to understand how these mosaics are calibrated to understand the inner characteristics of the velocity products as well as to plan future InSAR acquisitions in the Antarctic. As an example, we show that in broad sectors devoid of ice-motion control, it is critical to operate ice motion mapping on a large scale to avoid pitfalls of calibration uncertainties that would make it difficult to obtain quality products and especially construct reliable time series of ice motion needed to detect temporal changes.
Comprehensive Context Recognizer Based on Multimodal Sensors in a Smartphone
Authors: Han Manhyung , Vinh La The , Lee Young-Koo , Lee Sungyoung
Published: September 2012

Recent developments in smartphones have increased the processing capabilities and equipped these devices with a number of built-in multimodal sensors, including accelerometers, gyroscopes, GPS interfaces, Wi-Fi access, and proximity sensors. Despite the fact that numerous studies have investigated the development of user-context aware applications using smartphones, these applications are currently only able to recognize simple contexts using a single type of sensor. Therefore, in this work, we introduce a comprehensive approach for context aware applications that utilizes the multimodal sensors in smartphones. The proposed system is not only able to recognize different kinds of contexts with high accuracy, but it is also able to optimize the power consumption since power-hungry sensors can be activated or deactivated at appropriate times. Additionally, the system is able to recognize activities wherever the smartphone is on a human’s body, even when the user is using the phone to make a phone call, manipulate applications, play games, or listen to music. Furthermore, we also present a novel feature selection algorithm for the accelerometer classification module. The proposed feature selection algorithm helps select good features and eliminates bad features, thereby improving the overall accuracy of the accelerometer classifier. Experimental results show that the proposed system can classify eight activities with an accuracy of 92.43%.
Efficient Security Mechanisms for mHealth Applications Using Wireless Body Sensor Networks
Authors: Sahoo Prasan Kumar
Published: September 2012

Recent technological advances in wireless communications and physiological sensing allow miniature, lightweight, ultra-low power, intelligent monitoring devices, which can be integrated into a Wireless Body Sensor Network (WBSN) for health monitoring. Physiological signals of humans such as heartbeats, temperature and pulse can be monitored from a distant location using tiny biomedical wireless sensors. Hence, it is highly essential to combine the ubiquitous computing with mobile health technology using wireless sensors and smart phones to monitor the well-being of chronic patients such as cardiac, Parkinson and epilepsy patients. Since physiological data of a patient are highly sensitive, maintaining its confidentiality is highly essential. Hence, security is a vital research issue in mobile health (mHealth) applications, especially if a patient has an embarrassing disease. In this paper a three tier security architecture for the mHealth application is proposed, in which light weight data confidentiality and authentication protocols are proposed to maintain the privacy of a patient. Moreover, considering the energy and hardware constraints of the wireless body sensors, low complexity data confidential and authentication schemes are designed. Performance evaluation of the proposed architecture shows that they can satisfy the energy and hardware limitations of the sensors and still can maintain the secure fabrics of the wireless body sensor networks. Besides, the proposed schemes can outperform in terms of energy consumption, memory usage and computation time over standard key establishment security scheme.
On the Optimization of Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks: A Goal Programming Approach
Authors: Garcia-Sanchez Antonio-Javier , Garcia-Sanchez Felipe , Rodenas-Herraiz David , Garcia-Haro Joan
Published: September 2012

Network lifetime is a crucial concern for Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks (WMSNs), particularly due to the energy constraints of their nodes and the significant bitrate required by multimedia applications. This paper deals with this issue, studying how to achieve the maximum network lifetime, and simultaneously satisfying the best aggregate throughput for the multimedia services offered. To this end, we propose a planning model that results in a more accurate solution for an arbitrary network deployment than using the current optimization techniques applied both to WMSNs and traditional Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). Our model is based on multi-objective formulation and goal programming, which, to the best of our knowledge, have never been employed in the WSN field. This paper also proposes a load balancing algorithm which ensures a fair traffic load distribution per link during the network operation and matches the values returned by the mathematical planning model for the set lifetime and throughput. Simulation results are presented and further discussed to show the effectiveness of the numerical solutions. Finally, a test-bed deployed in a trial environment validates the theoretical contributions of this work.
Multispectral Image Feature Points
Authors: Aguilera Cristhian , Barrera Fernando , Lumbreras Felipe , Sappa Angel D. , Toledo Ricardo
Published: September 2012

This paper presents a novel feature point descriptor for the multispectral image case: Far-Infrared and Visible Spectrum images. It allows matching interest points on images of the same scene but acquired in different spectral bands. Initially, points of interest are detected on both images through a SIFT-like based scale space representation. Then, these points are characterized using an Edge Oriented Histogram (EOH) descriptor. Finally, points of interest from multispectral images are matched by finding nearest couples using the information from the descriptor. The provided experimental results and comparisons with similar methods show both the validity of the proposed approach as well as the improvements it offers with respect to the current state-of-the-art.
Optimal Filter Estimation for Lucas-Kanade Optical Flow
Authors: Sharmin Nusrat , Brad Remus
Published: September 2012

Optical flow algorithms offer a way to estimate motion from a sequence of images. The computation of optical flow plays a key-role in several computer vision applications, including motion detection and segmentation, frame interpolation, three-dimensional scene reconstruction, robot navigation and video compression. In the case of gradient based optical flow implementation, the pre-filtering step plays a vital role, not only for accurate computation of optical flow, but also for the improvement of performance. Generally, in optical flow computation, filtering is used at the initial level on original input images and afterwards, the images are resized. In this paper, we propose an image filtering approach as a pre-processing step for the Lucas-Kanade pyramidal optical flow algorithm. Based on a study of different types of filtering methods and applied on the Iterative Refined Lucas-Kanade, we have concluded on the best filtering practice. As the Gaussian smoothing filter was selected, an empirical approach for the Gaussian variance estimation was introduced. Tested on the Middlebury image sequences, a correlation between the image intensity value and the standard deviation value of the Gaussian function was established. Finally, we have found that our selection method offers a better performance for the Lucas-Kanade optical flow algorithm.
Validation Processes of Protein Biomarkers in Serum—A Cross Platform Comparison
Authors: Köhler Katja , Seitz Harald
Published: September 2012

Due to insufficient biomarker validation and poor performances in diagnostic assays, the candidate biomarker verification process has to be improved. Multi-analyte immunoassays are the tool of choice for the identification and detailed validation of protein biomarkers in serum. The process of identification and validation of serum biomarkers, as well as their implementation in diagnostic routine requires an application of independent immunoassay platforms with the possibility of high-throughput. This review will focus on three main multi-analyte immunoassay platforms: planar microarrays, multiplex bead systems and, array-based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) chips. Recent developments of each platform will be discussed for application in clinical proteomics, principles, detection methods, and performance strength. The requirements for specific surface functionalization of assay platforms are continuously increasing. The reasons for this increase is the demand for highly sensitive assays, as well as the reduction of non-specific adsorption from complex samples, and with it high signal-to-noise-ratios. To achieve this, different support materials were adapted to the immobilized biomarker/ligand, allowing a high binding capacity and immobilization efficiency. In the case of immunoassays, the immobilized ligands are proteins, antibodies or peptides, which exhibit a diversity of chemical properties (acidic/alkaline; hydrophobic/hydrophilic; secondary or tertiary structure/linear). Consequently it is more challenging to develop immobilization strategies necessary to ensure a homogenous covered surface and reliable assay in comparison to DNA immobilization. New developments concerning material support for each platform are discussed especially with regard to increase the immobilization efficiency and reducing the non-specific adsorption from complex samples like serum and cell lysates.
Conflict or Concert? Extending the Simmelian Triad to Account for Positive Third Party Presence in Face-to-Face Interviews with People Living with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Low Jacqueline
Published: September 2012

A number of sociologists and other researchers have focused on the role of third parties since Simmel’s seminal conceptualization of the social organization of the triad. However, less attention has been given to third party presence in qualitative interviews, despite the fact that third party participation in interviews with people with chronic illness and/or disability occurs frequently. Here too it is assumed that third party presence promotes conflict, ignoring the role of third parties as facilitators who enable informants to articulate their perspectives. Therefore, I focus on Simmel’s concept of the triad, concluding that the role of facilitator must be added to the types he describes.
Engineering Sustainability: A Technical Approach to Sustainability
Authors: Rosen Marc A.
Published: September 2012

Sustainability is a critically important goal for human activity and development. Sustainability in the area of engineering is of great importance to any plans for overall sustainability given 1) the pervasiveness of engineering activities in societies, 2) their importance in economic development and living standards, and 3) the significant impacts that engineering processes and systems have had, and continue to have, on the environment. Many factors that need to be considered and appropriately addressed in moving towards engineering sustainability are examined in this article. These include appropriate selection of resources bearing in mind sustainability criteria, the use of sustainable engineering processes, enhancement of the efficiency of engineering processes and resource use, and a holistic adoption of environmental stewardship in engineering activities. In addition, other key sustainability measures are addressed, such as economics, equity, land use, lifestyle, sociopolitical factors and population. Conclusions are provided related both to pathways for engineering sustainability and to the broader ultimate objective of sustainability.
Interaction between Shiga Toxin and Monoclonal Antibodies: Binding Characteristics and in Vitro Neutralizing Abilities
Authors: Rocha Letícia B. , Luz Daniela E. , Moraes Claudia T. P. , Caravelli Andressa , Fernandes Irene , Guth Beatriz E. C. , Horton Denise S. P. Q. , Piazza Roxane M. F.
Published: September 2012

Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) have been employed either for diagnosis or treatment of infections caused by different pathogens. Specifically for Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), numerous immunoassays have been developed for STEC diagnosis, showing variability in sensitivity and specificity when evaluated by reference laboratories, and no therapy or vaccines are currently approved. Thus, the aim of this work was the characterization of the interaction between MAbs against Stx1 and Stx2 toxins and their neutralizing abilities to enable their use as tools for diagnosis and therapy. The selected clones designated 3E2 (anti-Stx1) and 2E11 (anti-Stx2) were classified as IgG1. 3E2 recognized the B subunit of Stx1 with an affinity constant of 2.5 × 10−10 M, detected as little as 6.2 ng of Stx1 and was stable up to 50 ºC. In contrast, 2E11 recognized the A subunit of Stx2, was stable up to 70 ºC, had a high dissociation constant of 6.1 × 10−10 M, and detected as little as 12.5 ng of Stx2. Neutralization tests showed that 160 ng of 3E2 MAb inhibited 80% of Stx1 activity and 500 µg 2E11 MAb were required for 60% inhibition of Stx2 activity. These MAb amounts reversed 25 to 80% of the cytotoxicity triggered by different STEC isolates. In conclusion, these MAbs show suitable characteristics for their use in STEC diagnosis and encourage future studies to investigate their protective efficacy.
An Experimental Investigation on Inclined Negatively Buoyant Jets
Authors: Bashitialshaaer Raed , Larson Magnus , Persson Kenneth M.
Published: September 2012

An experimental study was performed to investigate the behavior of inclined negatively buoyant jets. Such jets arise when brine is discharged from desalination plants. A turbulent jet with a specific salinity was discharged through a circular nozzle at an angle to the horizontal into a tank with fresh water and the spatial evolution of the jet was recorded. Four different initial jet parameters were changed, namely the nozzle diameter, the initial jet inclination, the jet density and the flow rate. Five geometric quantities describing the jet trajectory that are useful in the design of brine discharge systems were determined. Dimensional analysis demonstrated that the geometric jet quantities studied, if normalized with the jet exit diameter, could be related to the densimetric Froude number. Analysis of the collected data showed that this was the case for a Froude number less than 100, whereas for larger values of the Froude number the scatter in the data increased significantly. As has been observed in some previous investigations, the slope of the best-fit straight line through the data points was a function of the initial jet angle (θ), where the slope increased with θ for the maximum levels (Ym) studied, but had a more complex behavior for horizontal distances.
A Proposed Smart E-Learning System Using Cloud Computing Services: PaaS, IaaS and Web 3.0
Authors: Nasr Dr.Mona M. , Ouf Shimaa
Published: September 2012

E-learning systems need to improve its infrastructure, which can devote the required computation and storage resources for e-learning systems. Microsoft cloud computing technologies although in their early stages, have managed to change the way applications are going to be developed and accessed. The objective of the paper is to combine various technologies to design architecture which describe E-learning systems. Web 3.0 uses widget aggregation, intelligent retrieval, user interest modeling and semantic annotation. These technologies are aimed at running applications as services over the internet on a flexible infrastructure. Cloud computing provides a low cost solution to academic institutions for their researchers, faculty and learners. In this paper we integrate cloud computing as a platform with web 3.0 for building intelligent e-learning systems.
Applying Semantic Web Technologies to Support Learners in Plant Identification and Taxonomy
Authors: Jordan Katy
Published: September 2012

This paper describes a novel application of semantic web technologies to support undergraduate students
Open Educational Resources: The Role of OCW, Blogs and Videos in Computer Networks Classroom
Authors: Gil Pablo , Candelas Francisco Andres , Garcia Gabriel Jesus , Jara Carlos Alberto
Published: September 2012

This paper analyzes the learning experiences and opinions obtained from a group of undergraduate students in their interaction with several on-line multimedia resources included in a free on-line course about Computer Networks. These new educational resources employed are based on the Web2.0 approach such as blogs, videos and virtual labs which have been added in a web-site for distance self-learning.
Peer Learning in Social Media Enhanced Learning Environment
Authors: Tervakari Anne-Maritta , Silius Kirsi , Tebest Teemo , Marttila Jarno , Kailanto Meri , Huhtamäki Jukka
Published: September 2012

TUT Circle, a dedicated social media service for students at Tampere University of Technology (TUT), was used as a learning environment for the purpose of enhancing studentsâ?? collaboration, communication and networking skills required in business and working life and for promoting peer learning in small groups. Unfortunately, active conversation was limited. The students intensively read content created by other students, but they did not actively present their opinions, arguments or comments. Another reason for the lack of real conversation was procrastination. The students seemed to need more encouragement to comment on or question the ideas of others, more support to promote intergroup interaction and more assistance with time management.
Prevention of Virus-Induced Type 1 Diabetes with Antibiotic Therapy
Authors: Hara Naoko , Alkanani Aimon K. , Ir Diana , Robertson Charles E. , Wagner Brandie D. , Frank Daniel N. , Zipris Danny
Published: September 2012

Microbes were hypothesized to play a key role in the progression of type 1 diabetes (T1D). We used the LEW1.WR1 rat model of Kilham rat virus (KRV)-induced T1D to test the hypothesis that the intestinal microbiota is involved in the mechanism leading to islet destruction. Treating LEW1.WR1 rats with KRV and a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Sulfatrim) beginning on the day of infection protected the rats from insulitis and T1D. Pyrosequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA and quantitative RT-PCR indicated that KRV infection resulted in a transient increase in the abundance of Bifidobacterium spp. and Clostridium spp. in fecal samples from day 5- but not day 12-infected versus uninfected animals. Similar alterations in the gut microbiome were observed in the jejunum of infected animals on day 5. Treatment with Sulfatrim restored the level of intestinal Bifidobacterium spp. and Clostridium spp. We also observed that virus infection induced the expression of KRV transcripts and the rapid upregulation of innate immune responses in Peyer’s patches and pancreatic lymph nodes. However, antibiotic therapy reduced the virus-induced inflammation as reflected by the presence of lower amounts of proinflammatory molecules in both the Peyer’s patches and pancreatic lymph nodes. Finally, Sulfatrim treatment reduced the number of B cells in Peyer’s patches and downmodulated adaptive immune responses to KRV, but did not interfere with antiviral Ab responses or viral clearance from the spleen, pancreatic lymph nodes, and serum. The data suggest that gut microbiota may be involved in promoting virus-induced T1D in the LEW1.WR1 rat model.
Case Series: Long segment extra-arachnoid fluid collections: Role of dynamic CT myelography in diagnosis and treatment planning
Authors: Ellika Shehanaz , Marin Horia , Pace Mitchell , Newman Daniel , Abdulhak Muwaffak , Kole Maximilian
Published: September 2012

We report five patients in whom spinal MRI revealed extra-arachnoid fluid collections. These spinal fluid collections most likely resulted from accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a dural leak. The patients presented with either compressive myelopathy due to the cyst or superficial siderosis (SS). All of these fluid collections were long segment, and MRI demonstrated the fluid collections but not the exact site of leak. Dynamic CT myelogram demonstrated the site of leak and helped in the management of these complicated cases. Moreover, we also found that the epicenter of the fluid collection on MRI was different from the location of the leak on a dynamic CT myelogram. Knowledge of these associations can be helpful when selecting the imaging studies to facilitate diagnosis and treatment.
Contrasting responses of DMS and DMSP to ocean acidification in Arctic waters
Authors: Archer S. D. , Kimmance S. A. , Stephens J. A. , Hopkins F. E. , Bellerby R. G. J. , Schulz K. G. , Piontek J. , Engel A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Increasing atmospheric CO2 is decreasing ocean pH most rapidly in colder regions such as the Arctic. As a component of the EPOCA pelagic mesocosm experiment off Spitzbergen in 2010, we examined the consequences of decreased pH and increased pCO2 on the concentrations of dimethylsulphide (DMS). DMS is an important reactant and contributor to aerosol formation and growth in the Arctic troposphere. In the nine mesocosms with initial pH 8.3 to 7.5, equivalent to pCO2 of 180 to 1420 μatm, highly significant but inverse responses to acidity (hydrogen ion concentration [H+]) occurred following nutrient addition. Compared to ambient [H+], average concentrations of DMS during the most representative phase of the 30 d experiment were reduced by approximately 60% at the highest [H+] and by 35% at [H+] equivalent to 750 μatm pCO2, as predicted for 2100. In contrast, concentrations of dimethylsulphoniopropionate (DMSP), the precursor of DMS, were elevated by approximately 50% at the highest [H+] and by 30% at [H+] corresponding to 750 μatm pCO2. Measurements of the specific rate of synthesis of DMSP by phytoplankton indicate increased production at high [H+], in parallel to rates of inorganic carbon fixation. The elevated DMSP production at high [H+] was largely a consequence of increased dinoflagellate biomass and in particular, the increased abundance of the species Heterocapsa rotundata. We discuss both phytoplankton and bacterial processes that may explain the reduced ratios of DMS:DMSPt at higher [H+]. The experimental design of eight treatment levels provides comparatively robust empirical relationships of DMS and DMSP concentration, DMSP production and dinoflagellate biomass versus [H+] in Arctic waters.
Numerical Modelling of Squeeze Film Performance between Rotating Transversely Rough Curved Circular Plates under the Presence of a Magnetic Fluid Lubricant
Authors: Abhangi Nikhilkumar D. , Deheri G. M.
Published: September 2012

An endeavour has been made to study and analyze the behaviour of a magnetic fluid-based squeeze film between curved transversely rough rotating circular plates when the curved upper plate lying along a surface determined by an exponential function approaches the curved lower plate along the surface governed by a secant function. A magnetic fluid is used as the lubricant in the presence of an external magnetic field oblique to the radial axis. The random roughness of the bearing surfaces is characterised by a stochastic random variable with nonzero mean, variance, and skewness. The associated nondimensional averaged Reynolds equation is solved with suitable boundary conditions in dimensionless form to obtain the pressure distribution, leading to the expression for the load carrying capacity. The results establish that the bearing system registers an enhanced performance as compared to that of the bearing system dealing with a conventional lubricant. This investigation proves that albeit the bearing suffers due to transverse surface roughness, there exist sufficient scopes for obtaining a relatively better performance in the case of negatively skewed roughness by properly choosing curvature parameters and the rotation ratio. It is appealing to note that the negative variance further enhances this positive effect.
Teaching Environmental Education in Raising Pupils’ Environmental Awareness: A Process Approach
Authors: Alaya-Ay Gaudencio M. , Cuizon Rolando C. , Tagum Exequel Tadeo
Published: September 2012

This study aimed at determining the level of community environmental awareness and concept among selected Grade VI pupils in Northeast II-A Central School and Catalino Sumile Memorial School, Dalipuga, Iligan City, Philippines. The former was taught environmental concepts through process approach using video and hands-on while the latter the traditional classroom instruction method. This study utilized the descriptive-correlational and inferential research design since the relationship and the differences between respondents’ profile and their community environment awareness level were tested at the 0.05 level of significance. The study utilized the following statistical techniques to analyze the gathered data: frequency and percentages, mean, standard deviation, likelihood ratio test, independent T-test and F-test. Findings reveal that there is a significant difference between the posttest results of the two groups wherein the process approach created better posttest results than the traditional approach. It also showed that the family income and the parent’s educational attainment have significant relationship with the posttest results of the respondents. Therefore, using process approach in teaching environmental concepts produces better academic achievement in pupils. It is also one way of increasing community environmental awareness in pupils whose young minds can be molded to become environmental advocates assuring sustainable future for next generations.   Keywords – process approach in teaching, environmental awareness, environmental education
Mothers’ Perception on the Impact of Employment on their Children: Working and Non-working Mothers
Authors: Sultana A.M. , Noor Zanariah
Published: September 2012

Recently the number of working mothers with young children is increasing. The increasing trend of working mothers ‘participation in the labor force poses challenges in families especially in the developing countries. One of these challenges concerns in managing household as well as their profession, as mothers’ employment has a significant impact on children well-being. Previous research on the impact of mother’s employment on children has been found both positive and negative influence on the well-being of the family. The present study attempts to examine mothers’ perception on the impact of their children academic, intellectual and cognitive development. The research is based on primary information and data collection. In this research a survey to working and nonworking mothers was made in the selected study areas. A total of 140 respondents were considered in this study. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed in this research. Together with examining both working and nonworking impacts of mothers’ employment on children, working mothers are able to contribute to children development compare to non-working mothers. The study found that mothers’ intellectual and economic resources contribute to children academic and cognitive development. Keywords - Working mother, Non-working mother, Cognitive development, Labor force
The Organizational Culture and Factors Affecting the Quality of the Local Universities
Authors: Pranee Chairat , Wongyai Wichai
Published: September 2012

The study investigated the characteristic of organizational culture and factors affecting the quality of local universities to determine the direction of Rajahat Universities accordance as local universities. Phase one studied the conceptual framework of the university by using the synthesis document and the in depth interview. The result showed that the mandated is for providing general and advanced vocational education, conducting research, providing academic and technology services, fostering art and culture, and producing, developing teachers’ competency. Phase two studied the characteristics of the organizational culture and factors affecting the quality of local universities by using path analysis. The result showed that the most visible characteristics of organizational culture were the family style and the set of causal variables could explain the variance of the quality of the local universities at 81 percent. Phase three studied to determine the direction of Rajabhat University by using the focus group discussion. The result showed that the university must; provide education by using community-based approach use the research for develop the community be a community learning center, apply arts to life and produce teachers’ awareness to the community. Keywords - organizational culture, quality of local universities, Rajabhat University
Metabolic dialogues: regulators of chimeric antigen receptor T cell function in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Moraly Josquin , Kondo Taisuke , Benzaoui Mehdi , DuSold Justyn , Talluri Sohan , Pouzolles Marie C. , Chien Christopher , Dardalhon Valérie , Taylor Naomi
Published: June 2024

Tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have demonstrated remarkable success in the treatment of relapsed/refractory melanoma and hematological malignancies, respectively. These treatments have marked a pivotal shift in cancer management. However, as “living drugs,” their effectiveness is dependent on their ability to proliferate and persist in patients. Recent studies indicate that the mechanisms regulating these crucial functions, as well as the T cell's differentiation state, are conditioned by metabolic shifts and the distinct utilization of metabolic pathways. These metabolic shifts, conditioned by nutrient availability as well as cell surface expression of metabolite transporters, are coupled to signaling pathways and the epigenetic landscape of the cell, modulating transcriptional, translational, and post‐translational profiles. In this review, we discuss the processes underlying the metabolic remodeling of activated T cells, the impact of a tumor metabolic environment on T cell function, and potential metabolic‐based strategies to enhance T cell immunotherapy.
Implementation of an ionization chamber array for linear accelerator monthly dosimetry QA
Authors: Taneja Sameer , Barbee David L.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The IC Profiler (ICP) manufactured by Sun Nuclear Corporation (SNC) is an ionization chamber (IC) array used for linear accelerator dosimetry measurements. Previous work characterized response of the ICP under various conditions, but there is limited work of its implementation into monthly QA measurement procedures. This work quantifies ICP accuracy and variables that affect accuracy for beam output measurements, and demonstrates feasibility of using the ICP for all recommended monthly dosimetry measurements.

Methods

A total of 1985 output measurements on six Varian TrueBeam and Edge linear accelerators were performed using three ICP with quad wedges (QWs) and were compared with conventional IC measurements. The accuracy of the ICP for beam output was characterized as the difference between the ICP and IC. Variables that affect ICP accuracy, including gain settings, calibrations, and template baselining as well as machine or energy‐specific bias were investigated. Measurements of profile constancy, energy, dose rate constancy, wedge factors, and gating were performed.

Results

The initially observed mean output difference between the ICP and IC was 0.16% (0.61%). When gain settings were optimized, the output difference accuracy improved to −0.02% (0.38%). The output accuracy of the ICP was not dependent on array, dose, temperature and pressure calibrations, or template baselining. Statistically, ICP output accuracy was dependent on machine and beam energy, but clinically, all measurements fell within 0.5% of unity. ICP measurements of energy, dose rate constancy, and wedge factors matched passing results with conventional IC in water measurements. Gating and beam profile constancy measurements demonstrated good stability using the ICP. Finally, monthly dosimetry QA using ICP was completed in an average of 33 min compared to 66 min using the IC.

Conclusion

This work demonstrated the feasibility and efficiency of using the ICP, with specific considerations, as a measurement device for dosimetric linear accelerator monthly QA.
Radiomics as a measure superior to common similarity metrics for tumor segmentation performance evaluation
Authors: Akramova Rukhsora , Watanabe Yoichi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To propose radiomics features as a superior measure for evaluating the segmentation ability of physicians and auto‐segmentation tools and to compare its performance with the most commonly used metrics: Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), surface Dice similarity coefficient (sDSC), and Hausdorff distance (HD).

Materials/methods

The data of 10 lung cancer patients’ CT images with nine tumor segmentations per tumor were downloaded from the RIDER (Reference Database to Evaluate Response) database. Radiomics features of 90 segmented tumors were extracted using the PyRadiomics program. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of radiomics features were used to evaluate the segmentation similarity and compare their performance with DSC, sDSC, and HD. We calculated one ICC per radiomics feature and per tumor for nine segmentations and 36 ICCs per radiomics feature for 36 pairs of nine segmentations. Meanwhile, there were 360 DSC, sDSC, and HD values calculated for 36 pairs for 10 tumors.

Results

The ICC of radiomics features exhibited greater sensitivity to segmentation changes than DSC and sDSC. The ICCs of the wavelet‐LLL first order Maximum, wavelet‐LLL glcm MCC, wavelet‐LLL glcm Cluster Shade features ranged from 0.130 to 0.997, 0.033 to 0.978, and 0.160 to 0.998, respectively. On the other hand, all DSC and sDSC were larger than 0.778 and 0.700, respectively, while HD varied from 0 to 1.9 mm. The results indicated that the radiomics features could capture subtle variations in tumor segmentation characteristics, which could not be easily detected by DSC and sDSC.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the superiority of radiomics features with ICC as a measure for evaluating a physician's tumor segmentation ability and the performance of auto‐segmentation tools. Radiomics features offer a more sensitive and comprehensive evaluation, providing valuable insights into tumor characteristics. Therefore, the new metrics can be used to evaluate new auto‐segmentation methods and enhance trainees' segmentation skills in medical training and education.
When Usual Care Is Not So Usual: Protocol Violations and Generalizability in a Treat‐to‐Target Strategy Trial in Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis
Authors: López‐Medina Clementina , van den Bosch Filip , van der Heijde Désirée , Dougados Maxime , Molto Anna
Published: June 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of protocol violations in the treat‐to‐target group in the Tight Control in Spondyloarthritis (TICOSPA) trial and to compare the proportion of patients optimally treated according to the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS)/EULAR 2016 recommendations for patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) between the treat‐to‐target versus usual care (UC) arms.

Methods

This study was a cluster‐randomized, controlled 48‐week trial including patients with axSpA who fulfilled the ASAS criteria, had an Axial Spondyloarthritis Disease Activity Score >2.1, and were biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug naive. Eighteen axSpA expert centers were randomly allocated to one treatment arm: (a) treat‐to‐target prespecified management strategy (four‐week visits), and (b) UC treatment decisions at the rheumatologist's discretion (12‐week visits). Protocol violations in the treat‐to‐target arm and the fulfillment of the 2016 ASAS/EULAR recommendations in both arms were evaluated at every visit. ASAS Health Index (ASAS‐HI) and disease activity outcomes at 48 weeks were compared between treat‐to‐target violators versus nonviolators. Patients treated according to the ASAS/EULAR recommendations were compared between both arms.

Results

A total of 160 patients initiated the trial (80 patients with treat to target; 80 patients with UC). In the treat‐to‐target arm, 51.2% patients violated the protocol at least once (62.2% of violations resulting in maintenance/reduction of treatment against protocol). After 48 weeks, treat‐to‐target violators versus nonviolators showed similar ratios of ASAS‐HI improvement. The proportion of patients managed according to the ASAS/EULAR recommendations after the first 12 weeks were 63.9% versus 61.8% for the treat‐to‐target and UC arms, respectively.

Conclusion

Protocol violations in the treat‐to‐target arm in the TICOSPA trial were frequent, although they did not have an impact on the rate of the primary outcome. The groups with UC was optimally treated, partly explaining the nonachievement of the primary objective in the TICOSPA trial.
Surface Property Enhancement of Al–Si–Cu Alloy Coating by Fast Multiple Rotation Rolling
Authors: Bararpour Seyedeh Marjan , Jamshidi Aval Hamed , Jamaati Roohollah , Javidani Mousa
Published: June 2024

Herein, the effect of high rotational speed fast multiple rotations rolling (FMRR) on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and wear resistance of an Al–Si–Cu alloy coating friction surfaced on AA1050 aluminum alloy is investigated. The FMRR process is performed at a rotational speed of 3000 rpm with traverse speeds of 50, 80, 110, and 140 mm min−1. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and wear resistance are examined by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, electron backscatter diffraction, transmission electron microscope, nanoindentation test, microhardness test, and pin‐on‐disc wear test. The results show that as the traverse speed increases from 50 to 140 mm min−1, surface roughness decreases from 6.3 ± 0.3 to 3.2 ± 0.2 μm. Additionally, with the increase in traverse speed, the coating height increases from 3.8 ± 0.3 to 4.7 ± 0.4 mm, while the coating width decreases from 37.1 ± 1.1 to 25.4 ± 1.3 mm. Furthermore, as the traverse speed increases from 50 to 140 mm min−1, the average hardness of the FMRR‐processed layer increases from 5.6 ± 0.6 to 10.2 ± 0.6 GPa. At a traverse speed of 140 mm min−1, the wear resistance of the FMRR‐processed layer increases by 20% compared to the Al–Si–Cu alloy consumable rod.
Heavy‐Metal‐Free Colloidal Quantum Dots: Progress and Opportunities in Solar Technologies
Authors: Jin Lei , Selopal Gurpreet Singh , Tong Xin , Perepichka Dmytro F. , Wang Zhiming M. , Rosei Federico
Published: June 2024

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) hold great promise as building blocks in solar technologies owing to their remarkable photostability and adjustable properties through the rationale involving size, atomic composition of core and shell, shapes, and surface states. However, most high‐performing QDs in solar conversion contain hazardous metal elements, including Cd and Pb, posing significant environmental risks. Here, a comprehensive review of heavy‐metal‐free colloidal QDs for solar technologies, including photovoltaic (PV) devices, solar‐to‐chemical fuel conversion, and luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs), is presented. Emerging synthetic strategies to optimize the optical properties by tuning the energy band structure and manipulating charge dynamics within the QDs and at the QDs/charge acceptors interfaces, are analyzed. A comparative analysis of different synthetic methods is provided, structure‐property relationships in these materials are discussed, and they are correlated with the performance of solar devices. This work is concluded with an outlook on challenges and opportunities for future work, including machine learning‐based design, sustainable synthesis, and new surface/interface engineering.
Highly Reversible Tin Film Anode Guided via Interfacial Coordination Effect for High Energy Aqueous Acidic Batteries
Authors: Xu Diyu , Zhang Haozhe , Xie Jinhao , Zhou Lijun , Yang Fan , Ma Jianfeng , Yu Yanxia , Wang Guizhen , Lu Xihong
Published: June 2024

Sn metal is a preferable choice as anode material for aqueous acidic batteries due to its acid‐tolerance, non‐toxicity, and ease of recycling. However, the large size and irregular deposition morphology of polyhedral Sn particles are bad for constructing stable and high‐capacity Sn metal anode because of severe hydrogen evolution and metal shedding. To tackle this critical issue, 4‐tert‐octylphenol pentaethoxylate (POPE) is used as an electrolyte additive to generate a thin‐film Sn anode with reversible stripping/plating behavior. POPE can not only induce homogeneous surface chemistry by adsorbing on the Sn surface via coordination bonds but also inhibit hydrogen evolution by modulating the solvation shell of Sn2+. The Sn film anode delivers improved electrochemical stability over 480 h with satisfactory rate performance and low polarization. Moreover, the as‐assembled PbO2//Sn battery can also provide outstanding durability at 10 mAh cm−2. This work offers new inspiration for developing a reversible Sn metal film anode.
NINJ1 Facilitates Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation via Blocking TLR4‐ANXA2 Interaction and Enhancing Macrophage Infiltration
Authors: Wu Zhaoyu , Xu Zhijue , Pu Hongji , Ding Ang'ang , Hu Jiateng , Lei Jiahao , Zeng Chenlin , Qiu Peng , Qin Jinbao , Wu Xiaoyu , Li Bo , Wang Xin , Lu Xinwu
Published: June 2024

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a common and potentially life‐threatening condition. Chronic aortic inflammation is closely associated with the pathogenesis of AAA. Nerve injury‐induced protein 1 (NINJ1) is increasingly acknowledged as a significant regulator of the inflammatory process. However, the precise involvement of NINJ1 in AAA formation remains largely unexplored. The present study finds that the expression level of NINJ1 is elevated, along with the specific expression level in macrophages within human and angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced murine AAA lesions. Furthermore, Ninj1flox/flox and Ninj1flox/floxLyz2‐Cre mice on an ApoE−/− background are generated, and macrophage NINJ1 deficiency inhibits AAA formation and reduces macrophage infiltration in mice infused with Ang II. Consistently, in vitro suppressing the expression level of NINJ1 in macrophages significantly restricts macrophage adhesion and migration, while attenuating macrophage pro‐inflammatory responses. Bulk RNA‐sequencing and pathway analysis uncover that NINJ1 can modulate macrophage infiltration through the TLR4/NF‐κB/CCR2 signaling pathway. Protein‐protein interaction analysis indicates that NINJ1 can activate TLR4 by competitively binding with ANXA2, an inhibitory interacting protein of TLR4. These findings reveal that NINJ1 can modulate AAA formation by promoting macrophage infiltration and pro‐inflammatory responses, highlighting the potential of NINJ1 as a therapeutic target for AAA.
Bioactive Patch for Rotator Cuff Repairing via Enhancing Tendon‐to‐Bone Healing: A Large Animal Study and Short‐Term Outcome of a Clinical Trial
Authors: Kang Yuhao , Wang Liren , Zhang Shihao , Liu Bowen , Gao Haihan , Jin Haocheng , Xiao Lan , Zhang Guoyang , Li Yulin , Jiang Jia , Zhao Jinzhong
Published: June 2024

Tissue engineering has demonstrated its efficacy in promoting tissue regeneration, and extensive research has explored its application in rotator cuff (RC) tears. However, there remains a paucity of research translating from bench to clinic. A key challenge in RC repair is the healing of tendon–bone interface (TBI), for which bioactive materials suitable for interface repair are still lacking. The umbilical cord (UC), which serves as a vital repository of bioactive components in nature, is emerging as an important source of tissue engineering materials. A minimally manipulated approach is used to fabricate UC scaffolds that retain a wealth of bioactive components and cytokines. The scaffold demonstrates the ability to modulate the TBI healing microenvironment by facilitating cell proliferation, migration, suppressing inflammation, and inducing chondrogenic differentiation. This foundation sets the stage for in vivo validation and clinical translation. Following implantation of UC scaffolds in the canine model, comprehensive assessments, including MRI and histological analysis confirm their efficacy in inducing TBI reconstruction. Encouraging short‐term clinical results further suggest the ability of UC scaffolds to effectively enhance RC repair. This investigation explores the mechanisms underlying the promotion of TBI repair by UC scaffolds, providing key insights for clinical application and translational research.
Circulating Small Extracellular Vesicles Involved in Systemic Regulation Respond to RGC Degeneration in Glaucoma
Authors: Li Tong , Zhang Wen‐Meng , Wang Jie , Liu Bai‐Jing , Gao Qiao , Zhang Jing , Qian Hai‐Dong , Pan Jun‐Yi , Liu Ming , Huang Qing , Fang Ai‐Wu , Zhang Qi , Gong Xian‐Hui , Cui Ren‐Zhe , Liang Yuan‐Bo , Lu Qin‐Kang , Wu Wen‐Can , Chi Zai‐Long
Published: June 2024

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and is characterized by progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration and vision loss. Since irreversible neurodegeneration occurs before diagnosable, early diagnosis and effective neuroprotection are critical for glaucoma management. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are demonstrated to be potential novel biomarkers and therapeutics for a variety of diseases. In this study, it is found that intravitreal injection of circulating plasma‐derived sEVs (PDEV) from glaucoma patients ameliorated retinal degeneration in chronic ocular hypertension (COH) mice. Moreover, it is found that PDEV‐miR‐29s are significantly upregulated in glaucoma patients and are associated with visual field defects in progressed glaucoma. Subsequently, in vivo and in vitro experiments are conducted to investigate the possible function of miR‐29s in RGC pathophysiology. It is showed that the overexpression of miR‐29b‐3p effectively prevents RGC degeneration in COH mice and promotes the neuronal differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Interestingly, engineered sEVs with sufficient miR‐29b‐3p delivery exhibit more effective RGC protection and neuronal differentiation efficiency. Thus, elevated PDEV‐miR‐29s may imply systemic regulation to prevent RGC degeneration in glaucoma patients. This study provides new insights into PDEV‐based glaucoma diagnosis and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.