Motion estimation and signaling techniques for 2D+t scalable video coding

We describe a fully scalable wavelet-based 2D+t (in-band) video coding architecture. We propose new coding tools specifically designed for this framework aimed at two goals: reduce the computational complexity at the encoder without sacrificing compression; improve the coding efficiency, especially at low bitrates. To this end, we focus our attention on motion estimation and motion vector encoding. We propose a fast motion estimation algorithm that works in the wavelet domain and exploits the geometrical properties of the wavelet subbands. We show that the computational complexity grows linearly with the size of the search window, yet approaching the performance of a full search strategy. We extend the proposed motion estimation algorithm to work with blocks of variable sizes, in order to better capture local motion characteristics, thus improving in terms of rate-distortion behavior. Given this motion field representation, we propose a motion vector coding algorithm that allows to adaptively scale the motion bit budget according to the target bitrate, improving the coding efficiency at low bitrates. Finally, we show how to optimally scale the motion field when the sequence is decoded at reduced spatial resolution. Experimental results illustrate the advantages of each individual coding tool presented in this paper. Based on these simulations, we define the best configuration of coding parameters and we compare the proposed codec with MC-EZBC, a widely used reference codec implementing the t+2D framework

A comparison of strength and power characteristics prior to anterior cruciate ligament rupture and at the end of rehabilitation in professional soccer players

Background: Strength and power is often reduced on the involved vs. contralateral limb and healthy controls following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction but no study has compared to pre-injury values at the time of return to sport (RTS). Hypothesis: Divergent recovery patterns in strength and power characteristics will be present at RTS relative to pre-injury baseline data and healthy matched controls. Study design: Cohort study Level of evidence: Level 3 Methods: Isokinetic strength tests, bilateral and single leg countermovement jumps (CMJ; SLCMJ) were measured prior to ACL rupture in 20 professional soccer players. These then had surgical reconstruction (ACL group) and completed follow up testing prior to RTS. Healthy controls (uninjured group) were tested at the same time as the ACL group pre-injury. Values recorded at RTS of the ACL group were compared to pre-injury. We also compared the uninjured and ACL groups at baseline and RTS. Results: Compared to pre-injury, ACL normalised quadriceps peak torque of the involved limb (% difference = -7%), SLCMJ height (% difference = -12.08%) and Reactive Strength Index modified (RSImod) (% difference = -5.04%) were reduced following ACL reconstruction. No significant reductions in CMJ height, RSImod and relative peak power were indicated at RTS in the ACL group when compared to pre-injury values but deficits were present relative to controls. The uninvolved limb significantly improved quadriceps (% difference = 9.34%) and hamstring strength (% difference = 7.36%) from pre-injury to RTS. No significant differences from baseline were shown in SLCMJ height, power and reactive strength of the uninvolved limb following ACL reconstruction. Conclusion: Strength and power in professional soccer players at RTS following ACL reconstruction were often reduced compared to preinjury values and matched healthy controls. Clinical relevance: Deficits were more apparent in the SLCMJ suggesting dynamic and multijoint unilateral force production is an important component of rehabilitation. Use of the uninvolved limb and normative data to determine recovery may not always be appropriate

Multiparametric Mri in the Management of Prostate Cancer: an Update-A Narrative Review

The growing interest in multiparametric MRI is leading to important changes in the diagnostic process of prostate cancer. MRI-targeted biopsy is likely to become a standard for the diagnosis of prostate cancer in the next years. Despite it is well known that MRI has no role as a staging technique, it is clear that multiparametric MRI may be of help in active surveillance protocols. Noteworthy, MRI in active surveillance is not recommended, but a proper understanding of its potential may be of help in achieving the goals of a delayed treatment strategy. Moreover, the development of minimally invasive techniques, like laparoscopic and robotic surgery, has led to greater expectations as regard to the functional outcomes of radical prostatectomy. Multiparametric MRI may play a role in planning surgical strategies, with the aim to provide the highest oncologic outcome with a minimal impact on the quality of life. We maintain that a proper anatomic knowledge of prostate lesions may allow the surgeon to achieve a better result in planning as well as in performing surgery and help the surgeon and the patient engage in a shared decision in planning a more effective strategy for prostate cancer control and treatment. This review highlights the advantages and the limitations of multiparametric MRI in prostate cancer diagnosis, in active surveillance and in planning surgery

Role of Renal Biopsy in the Management of Renal Cancer: Concordance between Ultrasound/CT-Guided Biopsy Results and Definitive Pathology, Adverse Events, and Complication Rate

\ua9 2023 by the authors.(1) Background: In the last decade, the number of detected renal cancer cases has increased, with the highest incidence in Western countries. Although renal biopsy is reported as a safe procedure, it is not adopted in all centres. As it is not possible to accurately distinguish benign tumours using imaging, this may lead to overtreatment. Most of the cancer detected on imaging is treated by surgery, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), or cryotherapy. (2) Methods: This was a single-centre retrospective study of 225 patients studied preoperatively with ultrasound (US)/CT-guided renal biopsy, with the aim of supporting clinical management. Decisions regarding the biopsy were based on either MDT indication or physician preference. US-guided renal biopsy was the first option for all patients; CT-guided biopsy was used when US-guided biopsy was not feasible. The efficacy of renal biopsy in terms of diagnostic performance and the concordance between biopsy results and definitive pathology were investigated. Additionally, adverse events related to the biopsy were recorded and analysed. Data collected throughout the study were analysed using binary logistic regression, Fisher’s exact test, and Pearson’s chi-square test to investigate possible correlations between post-procedural complications and the size of the lesion. (3) Results: Renal biopsy was not diagnostic in 23/225 (10.2%) patients. A CT-guided approach was necessary in 20/225 patients after failure of US-guided biopsy. The complication rate of renal biopsy was 4.8% overall—all Clavien grade I and without any serious sequelae. Interestingly, complications occurred in patients with very different sizes of renal cell carcinoma. No correlation between complications and anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs was found. No seeding was reported among the patients who underwent partial/radical nephrectomy. (4) Conclusions: Renal biopsy was shown to be safe and effective, with a high concordance between biopsy results and definitive pathology and a low rate of complications. The use of a CT-guided approach whenever the US-guided approach failed improved the diagnostic performance of renal biopsy

Prevalence of C-reactive protein elevation and time course of normalization in acute pericarditis: Implications for the diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of pericarditis

Background-The role of inflammatory markers is not well defined for either diagnosis or treatment of pericarditis. The aim of this study is to prospectively evaluate the frequency of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) elevation in patients with acute pericarditis, its time course of normalization, and the possible importance for diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis. Methods and Results-Two hundred consecutive patients with viral or idiopathic acute pericarditis (mean age, 53 +/- 15.5 years; 103 men) were studied from August 2005 to August 2007 in 2 Italian referral centers. Hs-CRP was determined at presentation and then every week until normalization. Hs-CRP elevation was recorded in 156 of 200 cases (78%) at presentation. Recognized causes of a negative hs-CRP at presentation were early assessment in 15 of 44 cases (34%) and previous anti-inflammatory therapies in 22 of 44 cases (50%). Hs-CRP normalization was achieved with the following time course: 120 of 200 (60%) at week 1, 170 of 200 (85%) at week 2, 190 of 200 (95%) at week 3, and all cases (100%) at week 4. In multivariable analysis, incomplete response to empirical anti-inflammatory therapy at week 1 (hazard ratio, 2.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.80 to 4.94; P < 0.001), corticosteroid therapy (hazard ratio, 2.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.59 to 4.95; P < 0.001), and the presence of elevated hs-CRP at week 1 (hazard ratio, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.32 to 4.21; P=0.004) were independent risk factors for recurrence. Conclusions-Hs-CRP is elevated at the initial presentation in approximate to 3 of 4 cases of acute pericarditis, identifies patients at higher risk of recurrence, and could be used to monitor disease activity and select appropriate therapy length

Risk of constrictive pericarditis after acute pericarditis

Background-Constrictive pericarditis (CP) is considered a rare, dreaded possible complication of acute pericarditis. Nevertheless, there is a lack of prospective studies that have evaluated the specific risk according to different etiologies. The aim of this study is to evaluate the risk of CP after acute pericarditis in a prospective cohort study with long-term follow-up. Methods and Results-From January 2000 to December 2008, 500 consecutive cases with a first episode of acute pericarditis (age, 51 +/- 16 years; 270 men) were prospectively studied to evaluate the evolution toward CP. Etiologies were viral/idiopathic in 416 cases (83.2%), connective tissue disease/pericardial injury syndromes in 36 cases (7.2%), neoplastic pericarditis in 25 cases (5.0%), tuberculosis in 20 cases (4.0%), and purulent in 3 cases (0.6%). During a median follow-up of 72 months (range, 24 to 120 months), CP developed in 9 of 500 patients (1.8%): 2 of 416 patients with idiopathic/viral pericarditis (0.48%) versus 7 of 84 patients with a nonviral/nonidiopathic etiology (8.3%). The incidence rate of CP was 0.76 cases per 1000 person-years for idiopathic/viral pericarditis, 4.40 cases per 1000 person-years for connective tissue disease/pericardial injury syndrome, 6.33 cases per 1000 person-years for neoplastic pericarditis, 31.65 cases for 1000 person-years for tuberculous pericarditis, and 52.74 cases per 1000 person-years for purulent pericarditis. Conclusions-CP is a relatively rare complication of viral or idiopathic acute pericarditis (<0.5%) but, in contrast, is relatively frequent for specific etiologies, especially bacterial

Altered time structure of neuro-endocrine-immune system function in lung cancer patients

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The onset and the development of neoplastic disease may be influenced by many physiological, biological and immunological factors. The nervous, endocrine and immune system might act as an integrated unit to mantain body defense against this pathological process and reciprocal influences have been evidenced among hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pineal gland and immune system. In this study we evaluated differences among healthy subjects and subjects suffering from lung cancer in the 24-hour secretory profile of melatonin, cortisol, TRH, TSH, FT4, GH, IGF-1 and IL-2 and circadian variations of lymphocyte subpopulations. </p> <p>Methods</p> <p>In ten healthy male volunteers (age range 45-66) and ten male patients with untreated non small cell lung cancer (age range 46-65) we measured melatonin, cortisol, TRH, TSH, FT4, GH, IGF-1 and IL-2 serum levels and percentages of lymphocyte subpopulations on blood samples collected every four hours for 24 hours. One-way ANOVA between the timepoints for each variable and each group was performed to look for a time-effect, the presence of circadian rhythmicity was evaluated, MESOR, amplitude and acrophase values, mean diurnal levels and mean nocturnal levels were compared.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>A clear circadian rhythm was validated in the control group for hormone serum level and for lymphocyte subsets variation. Melatonin, TRH, TSH, GH, CD3, CD4, HLA-DR, CD20 and CD25 expressing cells presented circadian rhythmicity with acrophase during the night. Cortisol, CD8, CD8^bright, CD8^dim, CD16, TcRδ1 and δTcS1 presented circadian rhythmicity with acrophase in the morning/at noon. FT4, IGF-1 and IL-2 variation did not show circadian rhythmicity. In lung cancer patients cortisol, TRH, TSH and GH serum level and all the lymphocyte subsubsets variation (except for CD4) showed loss of circadian rhythmicity. MESOR of cortisol, TRH, GH, IL-2 and CD16 was increased, whereas MESOR of TSH, IGF-1, CD8, CD8^bright, TcRδ1 and δTcS1 was decreased in cancer patients. The melatonin/cortisol mean nocturnal level ratio was decreased in cancer patients.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>The altered secretion and loss of circadian rhythmicity of many studied factors observed in the subjects suffering from neoplastic disease may be expression of gradual alteration of the integrated function of the neuro-immune-endocrine system</p

Corticosteroids for Recurrent Pericarditis : High Versus Low Doses: A Nonrandomized Observation

Background - Corticosteroid use is widespread in recurrent pericarditis, even if rarely indicated, and high doses ( eg, prednisone 1.0 to 1.5 mg . kg(-1) . d(-1)) are generally recommended, although only weak evidence supports their use with possible severe side effects. The aim of this work was to compare side effects, recurrences and other complications, and hospitalizations of a low- versus high- dose regimen of prednisone for recurrent pericarditis. Methods and Results - A retrospective review of all cases of recurrent pericarditis treated with corticosteroids according to different regimens from January 1996 to June 2004 was performed in 2 Italian referral centers. One hundred patients with recurrent pericarditis ( mean age, 50.1 +/- 15.8 years; 57 females) were included in the study; 49 patients ( mean age, 47.5 +/- 16.0; 25 females) were treated with low doses of prednisone ( 0.2 to 0.5 mg . kg (-1) . d(-1)), and 51 patients ( mean age, 52.6 +/- 15.3; 32 females) were treated with prednisone 1.0 mg . kg(-1) . d(-1). Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were well balanced across the groups. Each initial dose was maintained for 4 weeks and then slowly tapered. After adjustment for potential confounders ( age, female gender, nonidiopathic origin), only high doses of prednisone were associated with severe side effects, recurrences, and hospitalizations ( hazard ratio, 3.61; 95% confidence interval, 1.96 to 6.63; P < 0.001). Conclusions - Use of higher doses of prednisone ( 1.0 mg . kg(-1) . d(-1)) for recurrent pericarditis is associated with more side effects, recurrences, and hospitalizations. Lower doses of prednisone should be considered when corticosteroids are needed to treat pericarditis

CEACAM1 and MICA as novel serum biomarkers in patients with acute and recurrent pericarditis

BACKGROUND: The immune response plays a significant role in pericarditis, but the mechanisms of disease are poorly defined. Further, efficient monitoring and predictive clinical tools are unavailable. Carcinoembryonic antigen cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1) is an immune-inhibitory protein, while MHC class I chain related protein A (MICA) and B (MICB) have an immune-stimulating function. METHODS AND RESULTS: Serum CEACAM1, MICA and MICB concentrations were measured by ELISA in ~50 subjects of each group: acute pericarditis (AP), recurrent pericarditis (RP) and lupus (SLE) patients, metastatic melanoma patients as well as healthy donors. Serum CEACAM1 was dramatically elevated in AP and RP patients, but not in SLE patients, and displayed a highly accurate profile in ROC curve analyses. MICA and MICB were elevated in some pericarditis patients. All markers were enhanced in metastatic melanoma patients irrespective of neoplastic pericardial involvement. Etiology-guided analysis of RP patients showed that very low MICA levels were associated with idiopathic RP, while high MICA was associated with autoimmune and post-operative RP. Importantly, MICA was significantly associated with recurrences, independently of other potentially confounding parameters such as age, time of follow up or treatment modality. CONCLUSIONS: Here we report for the first time on CEACAM1 as a potentially novel biomarker for pericarditis, as well as on MICA as an innovative prognostic marker in these patients. Determination of the roles of these immune factors, as well as their diagnostic and prognostic values should be determined in future prospective studies