An efficient algorithm for codebook design in transform vector quantization

In this paper, a new wavelet-domain codebook design algorithm is proposed for image coding. The method utilizes mean-squared error and variance based selection schemes for good clustering of data vectors in the training space. As the clustering process terminates only in two steps, it is highly computationally efficient as compared to other reported methods. Simulation results are presented to show the superior performance of the proposed method in terms of peak signal-to-noise ratio as compared to the standard Linde-Buzo-Gray algorithm for codebook design

“Extensive Anal Cancer Resection Requiring Bilateral Subtotal Buttockectomy” - A case report

We report an aggressive case of anal cancer recurrences. This 38-year-old male presented with extensive verrucous anal carcinoma extending laterally across both buttocks. He was diagnosed in May 2019 with a T3N1cM0 anal SCC. His initial treatment entailed four cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel, completed in October 2019, preceded by a laparoscopic defunctioning loop colostomy. Subsequent radical chemo radiotherapy using 53.2 Gy in 28 fractions with concurrent mitomycin C and capecitabine was complete in January 2020. MRI pelvis and PET CT scan 5 months later demonstrated total resolution, supported by an equally promising clinical response. However, further follow-up imaging at ten months post completion of treatment, suggested local disease recurrence with prominent FDG avid internal iliac lymph node, correlating with clinical findings. He underwent an extended ELAPE followed by VRAM myo-cutaneous flap with unilateral V-Y advancement flap on right side and fascio-cutaneous rotation advancement flap on left side. Recovery was complicated by wound dehiscence, successfully managed by a negative pressure dressing. He remains well and disease free

Transfer of auxinic herbicide resistance from Brassica kaber to Brassica juncea and Brassica rapa through embryo rescue

Citation: Mithila, J. & Hall, J.C. In Vitro Cell.Dev.Biol.-Plant (2013) 49: 461. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11627-013-9515-yAuxinic herbicides are widely used in agriculture to selectively control broadleaf weeds. Prolonged use of auxinic herbicides has resulted in the evolution of resistance to these herbicides in some biotypes of Brassica kaber (wild mustard), a common weed in agricultural crops. In this study, auxinic herbicide resistance from B. kaber was transferred to Brassica juncea and Brassica rapa, two commercially important Brassica crops, by traditional breeding coupled with in vitro embryo rescue. A high frequency of embryo regeneration and hybrid plant establishment was achieved. Transfer of auxinic herbicide resistance from B. kaber to the hybrids was assessed by whole-plant screening of hybrids with dicamba, a widely used auxinic herbicide. Furthermore, the hybrids were tested for fertility (both pollen and pistil) and their ability to produce backcross progeny. The auxinic herbicide-resistant trait was introgressed into B. juncea by backcross breeding. DNA ploidy of the hybrids as well as of the backcross progeny was estimated by flow cytometry. Creation of auxinic herbicide-resistant Brassica crops by non-transgenic approaches should facilitate effective weed control, encourage less tillage, provide herbicide rotation options, minimize occurrence of herbicide resistance, and increase acceptance of these crops