bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
JPEG column: 82nd JPEG meeting in Lisbon, Portugal
Authors: Pinheiro Antonio
Published: March 2021

JPEG has been the most common representation format of digital images for more than 25 years. Other image representation formats have been standardised by JPEG committee like JPEG 2000 or more recently JPEG XS. Furthermore, JPEG has been extended with new functionalities like HDR or alpha plane coding with the JPEG XT standard, and more recently with a reference software. Another solutions have been also proposed by different players with limited success. The JPEG committee decided it is the time to create a new working item, named JPEG XL, that aims to develop an image coding standard with increased quality and flexibility combined with a better compression efficiency. The evaluation of the call for proposals responses had already confirmed the industry interest, and development of core experiments has now begun. Several functionalities will be considered, like support for lossless transcoding of images represented with JPEG standard.
Report on the 1st ACM SIGIR/SIGKDD Africa School on Machine Learning for Data Mining and Search
Authors: Carterette Ben , Suleman Hussein , Oard Douglas W.
Published: March 2021

We report on the inception, organization, and activities of the 1st ACM SIGIR/SIGKDD Africa School on Machine Learning for Data Mining and Search, which took place at the University of Cape Town in South Africa January 14--18, 2019.
Report on the 4th Joint Workshop on Bibliometric-Enhanced Information Retrieval and Natural Language Processing for Digital Libraries at SIGIR 2019
Authors: Chandrasekaran Muthu Kumar , Mayr Philipp
Published: March 2021

The 4

th

joint BIRNDL workshop was held at the 42nd ACM SIGIR Conference on Research and Development in Information Retrieval (SIGIR 2019) in Paris, France. BIRNDL 2019 intended to stimulate IR researchers and digital library professionals to elaborate on new approaches in natural language processing, information retrieval, scientometrics, and recommendation techniques that can advance the state-of-the-art in scholarly document understanding, analysis, and retrieval at scale. The workshop incorporated different paper sessions and the 5

th

edition of the CL-SciSumm Shared Task.
Report on the Ninth International Workshop on Location and the Web (LocWeb 2019)
Authors: Ahlers Dirk , Wilde Erik , Schifanella Rossano , Alowibdi Jalal S.
Published: March 2021

LocWeb 2019 was the ninth workshop in the LocWeb workshop series at the intersection of location-based services and Web architecture and was held at The Web Conference, WWW 2019, in San Francisco. It focused on Web-scale services and systems facilitating location-aware information access as well as on Spatial Social Behavior Analytics on the Web. The LocWeb 2019 workshop had contributions ranging from location data analysis over vocational trips and visualization of linked data to geolocation and browser integration. This report briefly presents the theme, contributions, and discussions of the workshop.
Neural models for information retrieval without labeled data
Authors: Zamani Hamed
Published: March 2021

Recent developments of machine learning models, and in particular deep neural networks, have yielded significant improvements on several computer vision, natural language processing, and speech recognition tasks. Progress with information retrieval (IR) tasks has been slower, however, due to the lack of large-scale training data as well as neural network models specifically designed for effective information retrieval [9]. In this dissertation, we address these two issues by introducing task-specific neural network architectures for a set of IR tasks and proposing novel unsupervised or
weakly supervised
solutions for training the models. The proposed learning solutions do not require labeled training data. Instead, in our weak supervision approach, neural models are trained on a large set of noisy and biased training data obtained from external resources, existing models, or heuristics.

We first introduce relevance-based embedding models [3] that learn distributed representations for words and queries. We show that the learned representations can be effectively employed for a set of IR tasks, including query expansion, pseudo-relevance feedback, and query classification [1, 2].

We further propose a standalone learning to rank model based on deep neural networks [5, 8]. Our model learns a sparse representation for queries and documents. This enables us to perform efficient retrieval by constructing an inverted index in the learned semantic space. Our model outperforms state-of-the-art retrieval models, while performing as efficiently as term matching retrieval models.

We additionally propose a neural network framework for predicting the performance of a retrieval model for a given query [7]. Inspired by existing query performance prediction models, our framework integrates several information sources, such as retrieval score distribution and term distribution in the top retrieved documents. This leads to state-of-the-art results for the performance prediction task on various standard collections.

We finally bridge the gap between retrieval and recommendation models, as the two key components in most information systems. Search and recommendation often share the same goal: helping people get the information they need at the right time. Therefore, joint modeling and optimization of search engines and recommender systems could potentially benefit both systems [4]. In more detail, we introduce a retrieval model that is trained using user-item interaction (e.g., recommendation data), with no need to query-document relevance information for training [6].

Our solutions and findings in this dissertation smooth the path towards learning efficient and effective models for various information retrieval and related tasks, especially when large-scale training data is not available.
Report on CLEF 2019
Authors: Braschler Martin , Cappellato Linda , Crestani Fabio , Ferro Nicola , Bürki Gundula Heinatz , Losada David E. , Müller Henning , Rauber Andreas , Savoy Jacques
Published: March 2021

This is a report on the tenth edition of the
Conference and Labs of the Evaluation Forum
(CLEF 2019), held from September 9--12, 2019, in Lugano, Switzerland.

CLEF was a four day event combining a Conference and an Evaluation Forum. The Conference featured keynotes by Bruce Croft, Yair Neuman, and Miguel Martínez, and presentation of peer reviewed research papers covering a wide range of topics in addition to many posters. The Evaluation Forum consisted to nine Labs: CENTRE, CheckThat, eHealth, eRisk, ImageCLEF, LifeCLEF, PAN, PIR-CLEF, and ProtestNews, addressing a wide range of tasks, media, languages, and ways to go beyond standard test collections.

CLEF 2019 marked the 20th anniversary of CLEF, which was celebrated with a dedicated session and a book on the lessons learnt in twenty years of evaluation activities and the future perspectives for CLEF.

CLEF 2019 also introduced the Industry Days to further extend the reach and impact of CLEF.
Autumn School for Information Retrieval and Information Foraging 2019
Authors: Engl Felix , Jegan Robin , Martin Leon
Published: March 2021

The Autumn School for Information Retrieval and Information Foraging (ASIRF) 2019 took place at Schloss Dagstuhl in Germany from September 22nd to 27th. The event featured eight lectures and tutorials from information retrieval experts and stood out due to the diversity of the participants, both regarding their cultural background and research. A varied social program complemented the scientific exchange.
Machine Learning‐Based Multitarget Tracking of Motion in Sports Video
Authors: Zhang Xueliang , Yang Fu-Qiang
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we track the motion of multiple targets in sports videos by a machine learning algorithm and study its tracking technique in depth. In terms of moving target detection, the traditional detection algorithms are analysed theoretically as well as implemented algorithmically, based on which a fusion algorithm of four interframe difference method and background averaging method is proposed for the shortcomings of interframe difference method and background difference method. The fusion algorithm uses the learning rate to update the background in real time and combines morphological processing to correct the foreground, which can effectively cope with the slow change of the background. According to the requirements of real time, accuracy, and occupying less video memory space in intelligent video surveillance systems, this paper improves the streamlined version of the algorithm. The experimental results show that the improved multitarget tracking algorithm effectively improves the Kalman filter‐based algorithm to meet the real‐time and accuracy requirements in intelligent video surveillance scenarios.
An Intelligent Analytics Approach to Minimize Complexity in Ambiguous Software Requirements
Authors: Ashfaq Fariha , Bajwa Imran Sarwar , Kazmi Rafaqut , Khan Akmal , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: March 2021

An inconsistent and ambiguous Software Requirement Specification (SRS) document results in an erroneous/failed software project. Hence, it is a serious challenge to handle and process complex and ambiguous requirements. Most of the literature work focuses on detection and resolution of ambiguity in software requirements. Also, there is no standardized way to write unambiguous and consistent requirements. The goal of this research was to generate an ambiguity-less SRS document. This paper presents a new approach to write ambiguity-less requirements. Furthermore, we design a framework for Natural Language (NL) to Controlled Natural Language (CNL) (such as Semantic Business Vocabulary and Rules (SBVR)) transition and develop a prototype. The prototype also generates Resource Description Framework (RDF) representation. The SBVR has a shared meaning concept that minimizes ambiguity, and RDF representation is supported by query language such as SPARQL Protocol and RDF Query Language (SPARQL). The proposed approach can help software engineers to translate NL requirements into a format that is understandable by all stakeholders and also is machine processable. The results of our prototype are encouraging, exhibiting the efficient performance of our developed prototype in terms of usability and correctness.
Chaotic Dynamics of a Mixed Rayleigh–Liénard Oscillator Driven by Parametric Periodic Damping and External Excitations
Authors: Kpomahou Yélomè Judicaël Fernando , Hinvi Laurent Amoussou , Adéchinan Joseph Adébiyi , Miwadinou Clément Hodévèwan
Published: March 2021

In this paper, chaotic dynamics of a mixed Rayleigh–Liénard oscillator driven by parametric periodic damping and external excitations is investigated analytically and numerically. The equilibrium points and their stability evolutions are analytically analyzed, and the transitions of dynamical behaviors are explored in detail. Furthermore, from the Melnikov method, the analytical criterion for the appearance of the homoclinic chaos is derived. Analytical prediction is tested against numerical simulations based on the basin of attraction of initial conditions. As a result, it is found that for ω = ν, the chaotic region decreases and disappears when the amplitude of the parametric periodic damping excitation increases. Moreover, increasing of F1 and F0 provokes an erosion of the basin of attraction and a modification of the geometrical shape of the chaotic attractors. For ω ≠ ν and η = 0.8, the fractality of the basin of attraction increases as the amplitude of the external periodic excitation and constant term increase. Bifurcation structures of our system are performed through the fourth‐order Runge–Kutta ode 45 algorithm. It is found that the system displays a remarkable route to chaos. It is also found that the system exhibits monostable and bistable oscillations as well as the phenomenon of coexistence of attractors.
Formulation of a New Mixed Four-Node Quadrilateral Element for Static Bending Analysis of Variable Thickness Functionally Graded Material Plates
Authors: Van Vinh Pham
Published: March 2021

A new mixed four-node quadrilateral element (MiQ4) is established in this paper to investigate functionally graded material (FGM) plates with variable thickness. The proposed element is developed based on the first-order shear deformation and mixed finite element technique, so the new element does not need any selective or reduced numerical integration. Numerous basic tests have been carried out to demonstrate the accuracy and convergence of the proposed element. Besides, the numerical examples show that the present element is free of shear locking and is insensitive to the mesh distortion, especially for the case of very thin plates. The present element can be applied to analyze plates with arbitrary geometries; it leads to reducing the computation cost. Several parameter studies are performed to show the roles of some parameters such as the power-law index, side-to-thickness ratio, boundary conditions (BCs), and variation of the plate thickness on the static bending behavior of the FGM plates.
A Power Transformer Fault Diagnosis Method Based on Random Vector Functional-Link Neural Network
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Shinan , Shi Rong , Li Yong
Published: March 2021

The random vector functional link (RVFL) network is suitable for solving nonlinear problems from transformer fault symptoms and different fault types due to its simple structure and strong generalization ability. However, the RVFL network has a disadvantage in that the network structure, and parameters are basically determined by experiences. In this paper, we proposed a method to improve the RVFL neural network algorithm by introducing the concept of hidden node sensitivity, classify each hidden layer node, and remove nodes with low sensitivity. The simplified network structure could avoid interfering nodes and improve the global search capability. The five characteristic gases produced by transformer faults are divided into two groups. A fault diagnosis model of three layers with four classifiers was built. We also investigated the effects of the number of hidden nodes and scale factors on RVFL network learning ability. Simulation results show that the number of implicit layer nodes has a large impact on the network model when the number of input dimensions is small. The network requires a higher number of implicit layer neurons and a smaller threshold range. The size of the scale factor has significant influence on the network model with larger input dimension. This paper describes the theoretical basis for parameter selection in RVFL neural networks. The theoretical basis for the selection of the number of hidden nodes, and the scale factor is derived. The importance of parameter selection for the improvement of diagnostic accuracy is verified through simulation experiments in transformer fault diagnosis.
From Neck Pain to Sarcoidosis: The Interesting Association
Authors: Kharouf Fadi , Yassin Mohammad , Al-kharouf Issa , Hindi Issam , Kuint Rottem
Published: March 2021

We report the case of a 31-year-old male patient, presenting to the emergency department (ED) with a 6-week history of left-sided lateral neck pain, along with a minor localized swelling. A few weeks after the beginning of his complaints, he contracted a mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Upon examination, his aches were defined as carotidynia; thus, proper radiologic evaluation was carried out. While ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed evident signs of left common carotid (LCC) vasculitis, computed tomography angiography (CTA) and positron emission tomography-CT (PET-CT) scans revealed no vascular findings. Unexpected hypermetabolic hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy was found on PET-CT, necessitating lymph node biopsy. Pathology results displayed noncaseating granulomas. Besides, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) levels in blood were high. Sarcoidosis, with concurrent LCC vasculitis, was diagnosed, and corticosteroid therapy was started. Shortly thereafter, remarkable recovery ensued.
Coherent Detection of Synchronous Low-Rate DoS Attacks
Authors: Wu Zhijun , Yin Yue , Li Guang , Yue Meng
Published: March 2021

Low-rate denial-of-service (LDoS) attacks are characterized by low average rate and periodicity. Under certain conditions, the high concealment of LDoS attacks enables them to transfer the attack stream to the network without being detected at all before the end. In this article, plenty of LDoS attack traffic is spread to the victim end to detect LDoS attacks. Through experimental analysis, it is found that the attack pulses at the victim end have sequence correlation, so the coherence detection technology in spread spectrum communication is proposed to detect LDoS attacks. Therefore, this paper proposes an attack detection method based on coherent detection, which adopts bivariate cyclic convolution algorithm. Similar to the generation of receiving terminal phase dry detection code in spread spectrum communication, we construct a local detection sequence to complete the extraction of LDoS attack stream from the background traffic of the victim terminal, that is, the coherent detection of LDoS attacks. When predicting the features of an LDoS attack, how to construct the parameters of the detection sequence (such as period, pulse duration, amplitude, and so on) is very important. In this paper, we observe the correlation of LDoS attacks and use coherence detection to detect LDoS attacks. By comparing calculated cross-correlation values with designed double threshold rules, the existence of attacks can be determined. The simulation platform and experiments show that this method has high detection performance.
Graph‐Based Analysis of RNA Secondary Structure Similarity Comparison
Authors: Yang Lina , Liu Yang , Hu Xiaochun , Wang Patrick , Li Xichun , Wu Jun
Published: March 2021

In organisms, ribonucleic acid (RNA) plays an essential role. Its function is being discovered more and more. Due to the conserved nature of RNA sequences, its function mainly depends on the RNA secondary structure. The discovery of an approximate relationship between two RNA secondary structures helps to understand their functional relationship better. It is an important and urgent task to explore structural similarities from the graphical representation of RNA secondary structures. In this paper, a novel graphical analysis method based on the triple vector curve representation of RNA secondary structures is proposed. A combinational method involving a discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and fractal dimension with sliding window is introduced to analyze and compare the graphs derived from feature extraction; after that, the distance matrix is generated. Then, the distance matrix is analyzed by clustering and visualized as a clustering tree. RNA virus and noncoding RNA datasets are applied to perform experiments and analyze the clustering tree. The results show that the proposed method yields more accurate results in the comparison of RNA secondary structures.
Research on Multistage Rotor Assembly Optimization Methods for Aeroengine Based on the Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Chen Yue , Cui Jiwen , Sun Xun , Cui Shihai
Published: March 2021

The coaxiality and unbalance are the two important indexes to evaluate the assembly quality of an aeroengine. It often needs to be tested and disassembled repeatedly to meet the double‐objective requirements at the same time. Therefore, an intelligent assembly method is urgently needed to directly predict the optimal assembly orientations of the rotors at each stage to meet the double‐objective requirements simultaneously. In this study, an assembly optimization method for the multistage rotor of an aeroengine is proposed based on the genetic algorithm. Firstly, a spatial location propagation model is developed to accurately predict the spatial position of each rotor after assembly. The alignment process of the assembly screw holes of the adjacent rotors is considered for the first time. Secondly, a new assembly optimization strategy is proposed to select different assembly data for the specific values of the coaxiality and unbalance, respectively. Finally, a double‐objective fitness function is constructed based on the coaxiality and unbalance. The simulation and experimental results show that the assembly optimization method proposed in this study can be utilized to achieve synchronous optimization of the coaxiality and unbalance of an aeroengine during preassembly.
A Phase II Trial of Melphalan Based Reduced-Intensity Conditioning for Transplantation of T-Replete HLA-Haploidentical Peripheral Blood Stem Cells with Posttransplant Cyclophosphamide in Patients with Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Solh Melhem M. , Hinojosa Gabriel , Laporte Justin , Solomon Scott R. , Morris Lawrence E. , Zhang Xu , Holland H. Kent , Bashey Asad
Published: March 2021

T-replete haploidentical donor transplants using posttransplant cyclophosphamide (haplo) have greatly expanded donor availability and are increasingly utilized. Haplo were originally performed using truly nonmyeloablative conditioning and a bone marrow graft. We have also developed myeloablative conditioning and peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) grafts for use with haplo. However, some patients may not tolerate myeloablative conditioning but may still benefit from a more dose-intensified preparative regimen to control malignancy and diminish graft rejection. To this end, we enrolled 25 patients on a prospective phase II trial utilizing a regimen of fludarabine 30 mg/m2/day × 5 days and Melphalan 140 mg/m2 on day -1 (flu/Mel) followed by infusion of unmanipulated PBSC graft from a haploidentical donor. GVHD prophylaxis included cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg/day on days 3 and 4, mycophenolate mofetil on day 35, and tacrolimus on day 180. Median age was 57 years (range from 35 to 68). Transplantation diagnosis included AML (n = 11), ALL (n = 4), MDS/MPD (n = 6), NHL/CLL (n = 3), and MM (n = 1). Using the refined Disease Risk Index (DRI), patients were low (n = 1), intermediate (n = 13), and high/very high (n = 11). 22 out of 25 patients engrafted with a median time to neutrophil and platelet engraftment of 18 days and 36 days, respectively. All engrafting patients achieved full peripheral blood T-lymphocyte and myeloid donor chimerism at day 30. The 180-day cumulative incidence for acute GVHD grades II–IV and III-IV was seen in 20% (95% CI 8%–37%) and 8% (95% CI 2%–22%), respectively. The 2-year cumulative incidence of chronic GVHD was 16% (95% CI 5%–33%) (moderate-severe 12% (95% CI 3%–27%)). After a median follow-up of 28.3 months, the estimated 2-year OS, DFS, NRM, and relapse were 56% (95%CI 33–74%), 44% (95%CI 23%–64%), 20% (95% CI 8%–37%), and 36% (95% CI 17%–55%), respectively. Among patients with high/very high risk DRI, 2-year OS was 53% compared to 69% for low/intermediate DRI. When compared with a contemporaneous cohort of patients at our center receiving haploidentical transplant with nonablative fludarabine, Cytoxan, and total body irradiation flu/Cy/TBI regimen, the outcomes were statistically similar to the 2-year OS at 56% vs. 63%

p
=
0.75

and DFS at 44% vs. 46%

p
=
0.65

.
A Shock-Like Pain and Inability to Ambulate: Thoracic Spinal Cord Compression from Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Kay , Abbassi Mashya , Ko Naomi Y.
Published: March 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma commonly metastasizes to organs, but there are few reports of vertebral metastases causing cord compression. Here, we present a case of thoracic cord compression in a patient with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Providers’ and patient’s awareness of this risk is important, as this is an oncological emergency.
Sequence Variations of Epstein-Barr Virus-Encoded Small Noncoding RNA and Latent Membrane Protein 1 in Hematologic Tumors in Northern China
Authors: Wang Hai-Yu , Sun Lingling , Li Ping , Liu Wen , Zhang Zhong-Guang , Luo Bing
Published: March 2021

Objective: To investigate the relationship between hematologic tumors and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded small noncoding RNA (EBER) variations as well as latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) variations. Methods: Patients with leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) were selected as subjects. Genotypes 1/2 and genotypes F/f were analyzed using the nested PCR technology, while EBER and LMP1 subtypes were analyzed by the nested PCR and DNA sequencing. Results: Type 1 was more dominant than type 2, found in 59 out of 82 (72%) leukemia and in 31 out of 35 (88.6%) MDS, while type F was more prevalent than type f in leukemia (83/85, 97.6%) and MDS (29/31, 93.5%) samples. The distribution of EBV genotypes 1/2 was not significantly different among leukemia, MDS, and healthy donor groups, neither was that of EBV genotypes F/f. EB-6m prototype was the dominant subtype of EBER in leukemia and MDS (73.2% [30/41] and 83.3% [10/12], respectively). The frequency of EB-6m was lower than that of healthy people (96.7%, 89/92), and the difference was significant (p < 0.05). China 1 subtype was the dominant subtype of LMP1 in leukemia and MDS (70% [28/40] and 90% [9/10], respectively), and there was no significant difference in the distribution of LMP1 subtypes among the 3 groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The distribution of EBV 1/2, F/f, EBER, and LMP1 subtypes in leukemia and MDS was similar to that in the background population in Northern China, which means that these subtypes may be rather region-restricted but not associated with leukemia and MDS pathogenesis.
Head Injury and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Guodong , Ou Shan , Cui Huijie , Li Xuan , Yin Zhiyong , Gu Dongqing , Wang Zhengguo
Published: March 2021

Background: Prior studies have suggested that head injury might be a potential risk factor of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the association has not been well established. We aimed to provide a synopsis of the current understanding of head injury’s role in ALS. Methods: We performed a systematic search in PubMed for observational studies that quantitatively investigated the association between head injury and ALS risk published before April 10, 2020. We used a random-effects model to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Fourteen eligible articles including 10,703 cases and 2,159,324 controls were selected in current meta-analysis. We found that head injury was associated with an increased risk of ALS (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.20–1.60) and the association was slightly stronger concerning severe head injury and ALS risk (OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.27–2.23). Considering the number of head injuries (N) and ALS risk, the association was weak (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.10–1.37, N = 1; OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.89–1.86, N ≥ 2). In addition, a strong association with ALS risk was found in individuals who suffered head injury <1 year (OR = 4.05, 95% CI: 2.79–5.89), and when the time lag was set at 1–5, 5–10, and >10 years, the pooled OR was 1.13, 1.35, and 1.10, respectively. Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicates that head injury, especially severe head injury, could increase ALS risk. Although a strong association is found between head injury <1 year and ALS risk in the current study, this result suggests a possibility of reverse causation.
Severe Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Molnár Gyula , Gyarmathy V. Anna , Zádori Noémi , Hegyi Péter , Kanizsai Péter
Published: March 2021

The prevalence of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is about 1 in 200–500 in the general population, but approximately less than 1% of those affected are actually diagnosed. One of the most promising approaches to treat FH is utilizing human monoclonal antibodies. This is a case study describing a 47-year-old male patient who presented to the Emergency Department with acute abdominal pain caused by severe hypertriglyceridemia (HTG)-induced acute pancreatitis (AP). We report the steps necessary for establishing the right diagnosis and the management of HTG-induced AP, which are inevitable for the reduction of severity and mortality. This case study shows that hypercholesterolemia is an underdiagnosed and potentially lethal disease. Once diagnosed, all measures should be considered to control blood cholesterol and lipid levels. The decision to administer PCSK9 inhibitors should not be solely based on economical calculation, but rather individual factors should also be considered to weigh the risk/benefit ratio.
Pelvic MRI, FDG-PET/CT, and Somatostatin Receptor Scintigraphy Findings of Treatment-Related Neuroendocrine-Differentiated Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kitajima Kazuhiro , Yamamoto Shingo , Ikeda Masataka , Yamasaki Takashi , Kawanaka Yusuke , Komoto Hisashi , Maruyama Mitsunari , Nishizaki Kosuke , Kimura Kei , Kimura Neinei , Yamakado Koichiro
Published: March 2021

Treatment-related neuroendocrine-differentiated prostate cancer (NEPC) is a rare tumor entity that transdifferentiates from adenocarcinoma as an adaptive response to androgen receptor pathway inhibition. We report a 79-year-old male with treatment-related NEPC, presenting as rectal bleeding after hormonal therapy. MRI showed a 51 × 52 × 65 mm tumor occupying almost the whole prostate gland and invading the seminal vesicle and rectum as moderately heterogeneous hypointensity on T2-weighted image, restricted diffusion on apparent diffusion coefficient map and diffusion-weighted imaging, and heterogeneous enhancement on Gd-enhanced T1-weighted image. FDG-PET/CT showed strong FDG uptake of the prostate tumor, and somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) showed mild uptake of the prostate tumor. The surgically resected specimen revealed NEPC. If prostate cancer worsens despite conventional therapy, treatment-related NEPC should be considered, and the benefit of imaging examinations including prostate MRI, FDG-PET/CT, and SRS is in localizing lesions with neuroendocrine differentiation.
Successful Enucleation of a Large Pancreatic Head Schwannoma
Authors: Yamaguchi Tomoyuki , Oura Shoji , Makimoto Shinichiro
Published: March 2021

A presumed benign cystic tumor in the pancreatic head had been pointed out to a 78-year-old man 4 years ago. In addition to no communication between the tumor and the main pancreatic duct, magnetic resonance imaging showed that the cystic fluid was serous. Gradual tumor enlargement from 2.1 to 4.0 cm urged us to resect the tumor. In order to safely enucleate the tumor, we preoperatively placed a pancreatic duct stent and covered the pancreatic parenchyma with a polyglycolic acid sheet, fibrin glue, and thrombin after tumor enucleation. The patient postoperatively developed grade B pancreatic fistula but recovered with antibiotics therapy. Postoperative computed tomography showed successful preservation of the main pancreatic duct. Pathological study showed a well-defined tumor mainly composed of loosely textured and S-100-positive spindle cells with abundant and hyalinized blood vessels in the cystic walls with palisading spindle cells, leading to the diagnosis of Antoni B schwannoma. The patient was discharged on the 11th day after operation. Both pancreatic duct stunting and covering the exposed pancreatic parenchyma with a polyglycolic acid sheet, fibrin glue, and thrombin are feasible measures to enucleate large benign tumors in the pancreatic head.
Autoimmune Pancreatitis after a Seven-Year History of Suspicious Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ergin Erhan , Oruc Nevin , Özütemiz Ömer
Published: March 2021

In this case report, we present a case of autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) diagnosis in a patient after a 7-year history of suspicious pancreatic cancer. Kim’s and Japanese criteria were used to diagnose AIP. Our case avoided undesirable invasive procedures and recovered thanks to the proper diagnosis and timely treatment with prednisone. Early and accurate diagnosis of AIP, in this case, had a significant impact on the treatment and prognosis process.
Clear Cell Chondrosarcoma with Rib Cage Metastasis: Case Report
Authors: Caetano de Oliveira Rui , Reith John , Casanova José
Published: March 2021

Clear cell chondrosarcoma is a rare histological subtype of chondrosarcoma, usually with a relatively non-aggressive clinical course. However, infrequently they may relapse and metastasize. We describe a case of a male patient, 53 years old, with rib cage metastases of a clear cell chondrosarcoma 11 years after the first surgical intervention, and review the literature.
Complete Spontaneous Regression of Lung Metastases after Resection of CIC-Rearranged Sarcoma: A Case Report
Authors: Marquina Gloria , Sanchez-Ramon Silvia , Sarnago Ana , Ortega Luis , Bustos Ana , Hernando Florentino , Cebrian Juan Luis , Casado Antonio
Published: March 2021

The vast majority of patients with soft tissue sarcomas (STS) of the trunk and bilateral lung metastases at diagnosis are considered incurable. These tumors have poor prognosis as only a palliative therapeutic approach can be offered to patients. We report on an extremely rare case in which bilateral lung metastases disappeared spontaneously following surgical resection of the primary CIC-rearranged sarcoma with no addition of chemotherapy or any other systemic therapy. A 53-year-old female presented with a rapidly swelling mass on her back. A magnetic resonance imaging scan of the chest revealed a large soft tissue mass on the posterior chest wall and bilateral lung metastases. Soon after stereotactic core-needle biopsy confirmation of round-cell sarcoma, the patient underwent surgery of the primary tumor as it started to be increasingly symptomatic. The resected specimen was pathologically diagnosed a poorly differentiated grade 3 sarcoma. Approximately 1 month later, a new CT scan revealed that the lung metastases were smaller and some of them had completely disappeared. Shortly afterward, the patient started adjuvant external beam radiotherapy of the tumor bed for 14 months. During the last follow-up visit, the patient confirmed no evidence of disease for 35 months postoperatively. In parallel, a histological study of pulmonary nodules, molecular analyses of the tumor, and a comprehensive study of the patient’s immunophenotype were performed to gain some additional insights in the potential causes of this rare phenomenon.
Serum and Tissue Levels of Advanced Glycation End Products and Risk of Mortality in Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Jiang Jianping , Zhang Yuanyuan , Chen Jianghua , Yang Xiaobing , Mei Changlin , Xiong Fei , Shi Wei , Zhou Wei , Liu Xusheng , Sun Shiren , Zhang Ping , Zhang Yixiang , Zhang Yanmin , Liu Shuangxin , Zhang Zhimin , Lin Qizhan , Yu Yan , Tian Jianwei , Luo Weihong , Qin Xianhui , Hou Fan Fan
Published: March 2021

Background: The relation of tissue and circulating advanced glycation end products (AGEs) with mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients remains inconclusive. We aimed to investigate the association of serum AGEs (CML) and tissue AGEs estimated by skin autofluorescence (SAF) with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, and examine the possible modifiers for the association in HD patients with by far the largest sample size in any similar studies. Methods: A total of 1,634 HD patients were included from the China Cooperative Study on Dialysis (CCSD), a multicenter prospective cohort study. The primary and secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality and CVD mortality, respectively. Results: The median follow-up duration was 5.2 years. Overall, there was a positive relation of baseline SAF levels with the risk of all-cause mortality (per 1 AU increment, adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 1.30; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12, 1.50) and CVD mortality (per 1 AU increment, adjusted HR, 1.36; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.62). Moreover, a stronger positive association between baseline SAF (per 1 AU increment) and all-cause mortality was found in participants with shorter dialysis vintage, or lower C-reactive protein levels (Both p interactions <0.05). Nevertheless, there was no significant association between serum CML and the risk of mortality. Conclusions: In patients undergoing long-term HD, baseline SAF, but not serum CML, was significantly associated with the risk of all-cause and CVD death.
Eosinophilic Cholangitis with Poor Prognosis after Corticosteroid- and Ursodeoxycholic Acid-Related Remission of Peripheral and Peribiliary Eosinophilia
Authors: Shimomura Takahito , Nakajima Tomoki , Nakashima Toshiaki , Morimoto Yasutaka , Yamaoka Junko , Shibuya Akiko , Ohno Tomoyuki , Yoshida Norimasa , Kishimoto Mitsuo , Konishi Eiichi , Tanaka Hideo , Moriguchi Michihisa , Itoh Yoshito
Published: March 2021

A 79-year-old man presented with high fever, marked eosinophilia, altered biochemical liver function tests (LFT) with predominance of biliary enzymes, and severe wall thickening of the gallbladder. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) suggested cholecystitis, without signs of biliary strictures. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and exploratory liver excision revealed eosinophilic cholangitis and cholecystitis, complicated with hepatitis and portal phlebitis. Prednisolone monotherapy rapidly improved peripheral eosinophilia, but not LFT. Liver biopsy showed that infiltrating eosinophils were replaced by lymphocytes and plasma cells. Treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid improved LFT abnormalities. Nevertheless, after 2 months, transaminase-dominant LFT abnormalities appeared. Transient prednisolone dose increase improved LFT, but biliary enzymes’ levels re-elevated and jaundice progressed. The second and third MRCP within a 7-month interval showed rapid progression of biliary stricture. The repeated liver biopsy showed lymphocytic, not eosinophilic, peribiliary infiltration and hepatocellular reaction to cholestasis. Eighteen months after the first visit, the patient died of hepatic failure. Autopsy specimen of the liver showed lymphocyte-dominant peribiliary infiltration and bridging fibrosis due to cholestasis. Though eosinophil-induced biliary damage was an initial trigger, repeated biopsy suggested that lymphocytes played a key role in progression of the disease. Further studies are needed to elucidate the relationship between eosinophils and lymphocytes in eosinophilic cholangitis.
Primary Duodenal Carcinoma with Embryonal Carcinoma Features in a Young Man
Authors: Yamamoto Naoto , Washimi Kota , Murakawa Masaaki , Kamiya Mariko , Kamioka Yuto , Ueno Makoto , Kishida Takeshi , Rino Yasushi , Masuda Munetaka , Morinaga Soichiro
Published: March 2021

We present the case of a 35-year-old man with intractable nausea, vomiting, and severe anemia. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis showed a circumferential lesion thickening of up to 3.5 cm at the level of the third portion of the duodenum. No aortocaval, retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy, nor secondary lesion was observed. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed a circumferential mass within the third portion of the duodenum. Histopathology of biopsy materials from the duodenal mass showed it most likely to be a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. The patient underwent a subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy with regional lymph node dissection. Histologically, tumor cells with basophilic cytoplasm and pleomorphic nuclei showed a solid pattern, and expressed CD30 and SALL4 immunohistochemically, leading to a diagnosis of embryonal carcinoma-like tumor. No other primary tumor could be identified, and the location of the tumor, mainly on the mucosal surface, suggested a duodenal origin. The UICC TNM staging was T3N2M0, stage IIB. This is a rare case of primary duodenal carcinoma with features of embryonal carcinoma.
Varicella Zoster Virus-Associated Meningitis as a Rebound Varicella Zoster Disease after Antiviral Discontinuation
Authors: Sato Tetsuko , Yamamoto Takenobu , Aoyama Yumi
Published: March 2021

Varicella zoster virus (VZV)-associated meningitis is usually progressive and can be fatal, and early diagnosis and aggressive treatment with intravenous antivirals such as acyclovir (ACV) are required in immunocompromised patients. Patients receiving corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy have a significantly higher risk of VZV-associated meningitis. In this report, we describe an unusual case of herpes zoster (HZ) in a young woman who was first diagnosed during tapering of prednisone for dermatomyositis. The skin lesions affected the left L2 and L3 dermatomes, which is unusual in VZV-associated meningitis. Despite showing a good rapid response to antivirals, she developed VZV-associated meningitis immediately after discontinuation of ACV. This phenomenon is often called rebound VZV reactivation disease and occurs after discontinuation of antivirals. This case was notable in that the affected dermatomes were distant from the cranial nerves. Thus, progression of HZ to VZV reactivation-associated meningitis can occur even in appropriately treated HZ patients. Continuation of antivirals beyond 1 week in patients on immunosuppressive therapy may be associated with a decreased risk of severe rebound VZV disease, such as VZV-associated meningitis.
Development of Dermatitis Herpetiformis in Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Lee Ruby , Lobo Yolanka , Spelman Lynda
Published: March 2021

Chronic plaque psoriasis is often associated with autoimmune bullous diseases. Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a rare immunobullous disease that has been linked to celiac disease (CD). To our knowledge, the coexistence of psoriasis and DH is uncommon, and has only been described in anecdotal reports. We report a case of chronic plaque psoriasis complicated by DH in a 60-year-old patient with no known history of CD or associated symptoms. In our patient, DH presented atypically as multiple vesicles along the edges of psoriatic plaques located on the back and hips, and as vesiculobullous eruptions on the fingers. The patient was successfully treated with a combination of dapsone and a gluten-free diet for DH, and secukinumab for psoriasis. This case highlights the importance of screening for CD in patients with psoriasis, as well as other concomitant autoimmune diseases. A gluten-free diet should be trialled in psoriatic patients with positive CD serology.
Recurrent Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasm in the Gallbladder: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Fayea Turki , Alzahrani Mohammed , Almaghrabi Hatim , Alghamdi Abdulrahman , Mohammed Kabo
Published: March 2021

Mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNEN) of the gallbladder are rare with no established therapeutic strategies. We report a case of recurrent gallbladder MiNEN from a population with a low incidence of gallbladder carcinomas, a review of the current therapeutic options, and recent updates on the nomenclature proposed by the World Health Organization in 2017.
Importance of Rapid Clinical Recognition of the Anterior Opercular Syndrome (Foix-Chavany-Marie Syndrome): A Case Report
Authors: Saidane Hafed Amin , Iversen Helle Klingenberg , Søndergaard Hanne , Amin Faisal Mohammad
Published: March 2021

We have described a 55-year-old woman with the anterior opercular syndrome (Foix-Chavany-Marie syndrome). The clinical presentation included acute onset of bilateral facial palsy and anarthria. Immediate MRI of the brain revealed acute ischemia in the right opercular region and sequelae after a previous infarction involving the left opercular region. The patient was treated with intravenous thrombolysis resulting in full recovery. The anterior opercular syndrome is rare, and the most common reason is sequential stroke. We emphasize the importance of recognizing this syndrome early, and in all cases, consulting a revascularization center immediately.
Reconstruction after Subtotal Sacrectomy for Sacral Ewing’s Sarcoma Using Tibial Allograft Strut Grafting: A Case Report
Authors: Hirota Ryosuke , Emori Makoto , Terashima Yoshinori , Iba Kousuke , Iesato Noriyuki , Fukushi Ryunosuke , Yoshimoto Mitsunori , Yamashita Toshihiko
Published: March 2021

We present the case of a 15-year-old girl. Two months after becoming aware of pain, she was diagnosed with a sacral tumor and referred to our department. She was diagnosed with a sacral Ewing’s sarcoma; after chemotherapy, it was determined that the tumor could be resected, so surgical treatment was performed. The sacrum and ilium were partially resected at the lower end of S1, and the lumbar vertebrae and pelvis were fixed with a pedicle screw and two iliac screws on each side of L3, and the sacral resection was reconstructed with a tibial strut allograft. No tumor recurrence or metastasis has been observed 1 year postoperatively. She developed bladder and rectal dysfunction, but she remained independent in activities of daily living and her daily life was not limited. The bone fusion in the reconstructed area confirmed the lack of instrumentation looseness. Surgical treatment for sacral Ewing’s sarcoma was performed to cure the patient. We believe that the tibial allograft contributed to the patient’s ability to walk on her own due to its high mechanical stability. Postoperative bone healing was observed with the same material, suggesting that the tibial allograft is useful for similar procedures.
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Incidental, Symptomatic Unruptured, and Ruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations
Authors: Kim Byung Sup , Yeon Je Young , Shin Hyung Shik , Kim Jong-Soo , Hong Seung-Chyul , Shin Hyung Jin , Hwang Yong Soon , Lee Jung-Il
Published: March 2021

Background: This study was performed to investigate clinical characteristics and outcome after gamma knife radiosurgery (GKS) in patients with incidental, symptomatic unruptured, or ruptured arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Methods: A total of 491 patients with brain AVMs treated with GKS from June 2002 to September 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were classified into the incidental (n = 105), symptomatic unruptured (n = 216), or ruptured AVM (n = 170) groups. Results: The mean age at diagnosis of incidental, symptomatic unruptured, and ruptured AVMs was 40.3, 36.7, and 27.6 years, respectively. The mean nidus volume was 3.9, 5.7, and 2.4 cm3, respectively. Deep venous drainage was identified in 34, 54, and 76% patients, respectively. There were no significant differences in obliteration rates after GKS between the 3 groups (64.8, 61.1, and 65.9%, respectively) after a mean follow-up period of 60.5 months; however, patients with incidental AVM had a significantly lower post-GKS hemorrhage rate than patients with symptomatic unruptured or ruptured AVMs (annual hemorrhage rate of 1.07, 2.87, and 2.69%; p = 0.028 and p = 0.049, respectively). Conclusions: There is a significant difference in clinical and anatomical characteristics between incidental, symptomatic unruptured, and ruptured AVMs. The obliteration rate after GKS is not significantly different between the 3 groups. Meanwhile, an older age at diagnosis and lower hemorrhage rate after GKS in incidental AVMs suggest that they have a more indolent natural course with a lower life-long risk of hemorrhage.