Digital Image Analysis Research Articles

Genomic characterization and histologic analysis of uterine leiomyosarcoma arising from leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei.

Leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei (LM-BN) is a rare variant of leiomyoma with a benign clinical course. In contrast, leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a high-grade, malignant neoplasm characterized by high recurrence rates and poor survival. While LM-BN and LMS show distinct morphologies, they share similar immunoprofiles and molecular alterations, with both considered 'genomically unstable'. Rare cases of LM-BN associated with LMS have been reported; however, the histogenesis and molecular relationship between these two tumors remains unclear. In this study, we assessed 11 cases of LMS arising in conjunction with LM-BN confirmed by histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC), further analyzed by clinical, histologic, and molecular characteristics of these distinct components. LM-BN and LMS had similar p16 and p53 IHC patterns, but LMS had a higher Ki-67 index and lower estrogen and progesterone eceptor expression. Digital image analysis based on cytologic features revealed spatial relationships between LMS and LM-BN. Genomic copy number alterations (CNAs) demonstrated the same clonal origin of LMS arising from existing LM-BN through conserved CNAs. LMS harbored highly complex CNAs and more frequent losses of the TP53, RB1, and PTEN genomic regions than LM-BN (p = 0.0031), with CDKN2A/B deletion identified in LMS only. Mutational profiling revealed many shared oncogenic alterations in both LM-BN and LMS; however, additional mutations were present within LMS, indicative of tumor progression through progressive genomic instability. Analysis of spatial transcriptomes defined uniquely expressed gene signatures that matched the geographic distribution of LM-BN, LMS, and other cell types. Our findings indicate for the first time that a subset of LMS arises from an existing LM-BN, and highly complex genomic alterations could be potential high risks associated with disease progression in LM-BN. © 2024 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Heterogeneity of the Alpha-Smooth Muscle Actin Tumor Score in Breast Cancer Cells Significantly Affects Tumor Invasiveness, Recurrence, and Patient Survival.

Alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) has been widely investigated in malignancies, primarily concerning its expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) inside the tumor stroma. Microscopic examination indicates that αSMA expression is not confined to the tumor stromal compartment but is also present in a subset of tumor cells, and this expression correlates with an enhanced invasive phenotype of malignant cells from lung, liver, or ovarian malignancies. Information on actin expression in breast cancer (BC) cells is scarce, and its influence on clinicopathological characteristics remains ambiguous due to conflicting findings in the literature. To examine the αSMA tumor score in breast cancer cells utilizing digital image analysis (DIA) methodologies and to critically analyze the varying effects of αSMA tumor score values on clinicopathologic parameters, particularly focusing on tumor cell invasiveness, recurrence, and survival. Double immunostaining for CD34 and αSMA was conducted on 53 breast cancer cases that were thoroughly characterized in relation to clinicopathologic data. Double immunostaining for CD34 and αSMA demonstrated different distribution patterns of both markers in normal and breast cancer tissues. DIAdata about αSMA tumor cell density, intensity, tumor score, and histological score were correlated with clinicopathological factors. We delineated three unique breast cancer subgroups based on αSMA tumor scores: a 9.43% low-expressing subgroup (αSMA_TSlow, score 4), a 35.07% medium-expressing subgroup (αSMA_TSmed, scores 5 and 6), and a 55.5% high-expressing subgroup (αSMA_TShigh, scores 7 and 8). Stromal immature vessels and tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) exhibited a strong correlation with αSMA_TSlow, whereas recurrence, perineural, and lymphovascular invasion strongly influenced the αSMA_TSmed and αSMA_TShigh subgroups. The αSMA_TSmed subgroup demonstrated the most heterogeneity with the influence of αSMA-expressing breast cancer cells on tumor size, nodal status, perineural and lymphovascular invasion, menopausal status, recurrence, and survival. Most of the cases from the αSMA_TSlow subgroup had Luminal B and Luminal B-HER2 phenotypes, while triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represented one-third of all cases in the αSMA_TShigh subgroup. αSMA-expressing breast cancer cells variably affect malignant growth, invasion, and recurrence, highly contingent upon their density and expression intensity. The current investigation identified an αSMA_TSmed BC subgroup that appears to promote invasiveness, recurrence, and survival in breast cancer. Our data indicate that αSMA BC-expressing cells play a dual role in BC progression, contingent upon their percentage and expression intensity; however, further research is required to elucidate the factors and mechanisms responsible for their accumulation and/or transdifferentiation in malignant breast tissue.

A simple technique for the determination of molybdenum (Ⅵ) based on dispersive surfactant micelle-mediated extraction and image colorimetric analysis

ABSTRACT In this study, the potential of dispersive surfactant micelle-mediated extraction combined with image colorimetric analysis was assessed for the extraction, preconcentration, and determination of molybdenum (VI) in environmental samples. In this approach, the cationic cetyltrimethylammonium bromide surfactant (CTAB) was utilised as a complexing and extraction agent, and ethanol was chosen as a dispersive solvent and surfactant self-assembly agent. Initially, a mixture of CTAB and ethanol is injected into a test tube, resulting in the formation of a cloudy solution due to the dispersion of CTAB particles in the aqueous phase. In this step, coloured ternary complexes obtained from the reaction of the Mo(VI) ions with pyrogallol red (PR) in the presence of iodide ions are extracted by CTAB through a surfactant self-assembly process. After centrifuging, the surfactant-rich phase was dissolved in 1 mL of dimethylformamide (DMF) and analysed using a smartphone-based self-constructed colorimeter and a commercial UV-Vis spectrophotometer. In the mentioned colorimeter, digital image analysis of the final solution was performed based on the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) colour model, and the value of the R channel was used to acquire the analytical signal. Under optimal conditions, a linear range of 5–100 μg L−1 and a limit of detection (LOD) of 2.1 μg L−1 were achieved using a self-constructed colorimeter. Additionally, linear range of 15–250 μg L−1, with a LOD of 3.3 μg L−1, was obtained through UV-Vis spectrophotometric analysis. Ultimately, the proposed method was successfully utilised to determine Mo(VI) in various aqueous samples, with satisfactory recoveries ranging from 96 to 109%.

Novel Grading Scale for Conjunctival Inflammation in Cicatrizing Conjunctivitis Associated with Pemphigoid

ABSTRACT Purpose To develop a novel grading scale for assessing conjunctival inflammation in cicatrizing conjunctivitis associated with Pemphigoid Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of digital slit-lamp images for patients with cicatricial pemphigoid in which best-quality conjunctival images for each eyelid at each photographic session was selected and anonymized. These images were subsequently prospectively assessed for inflammation severity on a scale of 0–4+ by a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist specializing in pemphigoid. The most representative image grade of inflammation was then compiled to create a visual composite, accompanied by corresponding verbal descriptions for each level of inflammation. The primary outcome measure was the development of a novel 4-point grading scale demonstrating progressive degrees of conjunctival inflammation in patients with cicatrizing conjunctivitis associated with pemphigoid. Results A total of 6,969 conjunctival images from 113 patients with cicatrizing conjunctivitis secondary to pemphigoid were reviewed and narrowed to 452 images, each representing the best single clarity image from each eyelid per photo session. The images were then sorted into five groups by degree of inflammation (0–4+). The most representative photographs of the upper and lower eyelids in each group were then selected to create a visual composite with an associated verbal descriptor for each level of inflammation. Conclusion A novel 4-point grading scale was developed incorporating both verbal descriptors and visual components to quantify conjunctival inflammation in patients with cicatrizing conjunctivitis associated with Pemphigoid.

Morphological digital assessment and transcripts of gastric and duodenal visfatin in growing piglets fed with increasing amounts of polyphenols from olive mill waste extract.

Visfatin is an adipokine with mediatory effects on inflammation. It is expressed at low levels in the pig stomach, but its role in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is not well understood. This study explored visfatin expression and localization in the stomach and duodenum of piglets fed varying levels of polyphenols derived from olive mill waste extract, known for their antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Twenty-seven piglets were assigned to three dietary groups: control (commercial feed), low polyphenol (120 ppm), and high polyphenol (240 ppm) groups. After 14 days of feeding, samples from the glandular stomach and duodenum were collected from 13 piglets. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), digital image analysis (DIA) using QuPath software, and double-label immunofluorescence were performed to detect visfatin-positive cells and co-localize them with serotonin. Additionally, relative gene expression of visfatin was assessed via RT-qPCR. Visfatin-positive cells were identified in 5 out of 13 piglets, localized mainly in the basal portion of gastric and intestinal glands. The morphology of those cells was consistent with neuroendocrine cells and confirmed by co-localization of visfatin and serotonin. No significant differences were found in cell positivity or morphology between dietary groups or between tissues. However, visfatin transcript levels increased with the dose of polyphenolic extract. These findings suggest that dietary polyphenols may modulate visfatin gene expression in the GI tract. The study also highlights the value of digital anatomy for enhancing the accuracy and reproducibility of anatomical research. Further studies are needed to elucidate the functional role of visfatin transcript and protein in the porcine GI tract.

Gradual Acidification at the Oral Biofilm-Implant Material Interface.

The colonization of dental implants by oral biofilms causes inflammatory reactions that can ultimately lead to implant loss. Therefore, safety-integrated implant surfaces are under development that aim to detect bacterial attachment at an early stage and subsequently release antibacterial compounds to prevent their accumulation. Since primary oral colonizers ferment carbohydrates leading to local acidification, pH is considered a promising trigger for these surfaces. As a prerequisite for such systems, the present study aimed at specifically analyzing the pH at the interface between implant material and oral biofilms. For this purpose, in vitro-grown Streptococcus oralis monospecies biofilms and an established multispecies biofilm on titanium discs as well as in situ-grown biofilms from orally exposed titanium-equipped splints were used. Mature biofilm morphology was characterized by live/dead fluorescence staining, revealing improved growth from in vitro to in situ biofilms as well as a general decreasing membrane permeability over time due to the static incubation conditions. For pH analysis, the pH-sensitive dye C-SNARF-4 combined with 3-dimensional imaging by confocal laser-scanning microscopy and digital image analysis were used to detect extracellular pH values in different biofilm layers. All mature biofilms showed a pH gradient, with the lowest values at the material interface. Interestingly, the exact values depicted a time- and nutrient-dependent gradual acidification independently of the biofilm source and for in situ biofilms also independently of the sample donor. After short incubation times, a mild acidification to approximately pH 6.3 could be observed. But when sufficient nutrients were processed for a longer period of time, acidification intensified, leading to approximately pH 5.0. This not only defines the required turning point of pH-triggered implant release systems but also reveals the opportunity for a tailored release at different stages of biofilm formation.

Differential tumor protein expression at follicular lymphoma diagnosis reveals dysregulation of key molecular pathways associated with histological transformation

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is the most common low-grade lymphoma. Despite its indolent nature, FL carries an inherent risk of histological transformation (HT) to a more aggressive lymphoma. Existing biomarkers are insufficient to predict HT, indicating the need for more robust biological predictors. Previously, we used mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify differentially expressed proteins in diagnostic FLs with and without subsequent HT. This study sought to further investigate identified proteins in transformation of FL, generally acting in important cellular pathways such as (i) apoptosis (BID), (ii) cell cycle (CDC26, CDK6, SRSF1, SRSF2), (iii) GTPase signaling (IQGAP2, MEK1), (iv) cytoskeletal rearrangement and cellular migration (ACTB, CD11a, MMP9, SEPT6), and (v) immune processes (CD81, IgG, MPO, PIK3AP1). We analyzed pre-therapeutic samples from 48 FL patients, either non-transforming FL (nt-FL, n = 30) or subsequently-transforming FL (st-FL, n = 18), the latter with histologically-confirmed transformation after their initial FL diagnosis. Paired high-grade lymphomas (tFL, n = 18) from the time of transformation were also analyzed. We used immunohistochemistry and digital image analysis to quantify protein levels. In all five pathway classes, several proteins were differentially expressed between either the diagnostic nt-FL and st-FL samples, or between the paired st-FL and tFL samples (p < 0.05). Interestingly, we found correlation between expression levels of several proteins, indicating a complex involvement between several pathways. Differential expression of most proteins was also associated with shorter transformation-free survival (p < 0.05). These findings emphasize underlying differences in FL biology predictive of subsequent transformation, highlighting deregulation of important interconnected cellular pathways.

Experimental study of asphalt mixtures with recycled resources: Influence of electric arc furnace slag aggregate roughness and bitumen film thickness on fatigue performance

Electric arc furnace slag (EAFS) is a viable alternative in asphalt mixtures due to its favourable mechanical properties. This study examines the impact of EAFS content and bitumen film thickness (TF) on the fatigue performance of asphalt mixtures. Mixtures with varying levels of EAFS replacement were designed, and their mechanical properties were evaluated through indirect tensile strength and stiffness tests, followed by fatigue tests using the four-point bending method and EBADE (Strain Sweep Test). The results indicated that mixtures with EAFS exhibited increased stiffness, but fatigue performance decreased at high strain levels. At low strain levels, EAFS mixtures performed similarly or better than the control. HMA_GL had the highest TF (13.97 μm), followed by HMA_GS (13.60 μm), HMA_SL (12.66 μm), and HMA_SS (11.77 μm), showing that as the EAFS content increases, the TF decreases. This finding was verified through Digital Image Analysis. This decrease in TF is due to the high porosity and roughness of the EAFS, which in turn reduces the effective bitumen (Pbe) in the mixture. HMA_SL*, with a TF equal to the control, demonstrated a 22 % improvement in fatigue performance compared to HMA_SL. In the EBADE tests, HMA_GL achieved 44.69 MJ/m3 of dissipated energy, HMA_GS 31.55 MJ/m3, HMA_SL 34.45 MJ/m3, and HMA_SS 35.54 MJ/m3. The improved HMA_SL* recorded 42.15 MJ/m3, nearly matching the control. EBADE results confirmed that higher EAFS content increased initial stiffness, but the complex modulus (|E*|) decreased more rapidly as deformation increased. These results are consistent with the stiffness tests. These findings suggest that EAFS can successfully replace natural aggregates in asphalt mixtures, with a moderate increase in bitumen content recommended to improve fatigue performance.

Machine vision system combined with multiple regression for damage and quality detection of bananas during storage

The study used a machine vision system and applied image process analysis to assess the bruise parameters of the damage zone and external quality attributes of 18 treatments generated from bruised (30 cm and 60 cm drop heights) and non-bruised (control) ‘Fard’ and ‘Somali’ banana cultivars stored at 5, 13, and 22 °C for 21 d. Experiments include digital image analysis of fractal dimension (FD), grayscale (Igray), bruise susceptibility (BS), color, surface area (AS), and some other physical attributes like weight loss %, peel thickness reduction %, and firmness. Multiple linear regression analysis was programmed to determine the effect of the four predictors (storage time, temperature, impact level, and cultivars) on the dependent variables (bruise intensity and quality parameters). It was demonstrated that the fractal dimension of the bruised area increased as impact damage and storage duration increased, particularly in high impact (60 cm) ‘Fard’ banana fruit at 5 and 22 °C, respectively. Digital image analysis was effectively used to determine the surface area of both cultivars. The model explains 83 % of the variability in digital image surface area compared to 70 % for manually measured surface area. The predicted versus measured L*a*b* color spaces showed a higher determination of coefficient (R2>0.5300) compared to a lower determination of coefficient (R2<0.3900) for RGB color spaces. The L*a*b* color spaces recorded a strong correlation with all digitally processed parameters, peel thickness, firmness, and weight loss %, which had greater reliability than RGB color space to predict subsequent bruise damage and storage quality change in bananas. Using image analysis by machine vision system aligning with multiple linear regression has been approved to be efficient for external quality and bruise intensity determination in banana cultivars.

Clinicopathological analysis of claudin 18.2 focusing on intratumoral heterogeneity and survival in patients with metastatic or unresectable gastric cancer

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2) positivity, with a particular focus on intratumoral heterogeneity, and its association with clinicopathological features in metastatic or unresectable gastric cancer (GC). We investigated 400 patients who received systemic chemotherapy for unresectable, metastatic, or recurrent GC. Immunohistochemistry for CLDN18 (43-14A), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and fibroblast growth factor receptor 2, as well as HER2 silver in situ hybridization (ISH), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) ISH, and microsatellite instability testing were carried out. CD3+, CD8+, CD4+, and Foxp3-positive immune cell densities were calculated using digital image analysis. In GC cases with any CLDN18.2 expression, more than half of the cases (61.3%) showed different expression results between four different tissue microarray (TMA) cores. When comparing CLDN18.2 status between whole tissue sections and the combined results from the four TMA cores, discrepancies were observed in only 2 out of 85 GC cases (2.4%), with 1 false positive and 1 false negative. After considering intratumoral heterogeneity, a CLDN18.2 positivity rate of 31.3% was observed among the 400 GC patients. CLDN18.2 positivity was rare in GCs located in the antrum (or lower third) and in HER2-positive cases but was common in EBV-positive GCs (P < 0.05). No differences in overall survival (OS) were observed according to CLDN18.2 positivity (P= 0.116). Additionally, there was no association between OS and CLDN18.2 positivity in patients treated with fluoropyrimidine plus platinum, chemotherapy plus trastuzumab, paclitaxel with or without ramucirumab, and immuno-oncologic agents. CLDN18.2-positive/PD-L1-high GCs showed statistically significantly longer OS than others (P= 0.025) and higher CD8+ T-cell densities in both the tumor center and periphery (P < 0.001). Characterizing unresectable, metastatic, or recurrent GC with positive CLDN18.2 expression and evaluating intratumoral heterogeneity and prognostic implications of various therapeutics help advance treatment strategies and develop new therapies for patients with GC.

Design of mean filter using field programmable gate arrays for digital images

In this paper, we design and analysis of mean filter using field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) for digital images, FPGAs are integrated circuits consisting of interconnections that connect programmable internal hardware blocks allows users to customize operations for a specific application. FPGA is an ideal choice for real-time image processing, these FPGA devices are controlled in Verilog or VHDL languages, allowing to design at different levels and adapt to design changes or even support new applications throughout the life of the component. Digital image filtering is the most important task in image processing and with the help of computers, image recognition involves identifying and classifying objects in an image. This paper design of mean filter for digital image processing, implementation and analysis of image processing algorithms on FPGAs. The results obtained on the FPGA are compared and analyzed with the results by MATLAB software.

Tissue Cadherin 17 (CDH17): An Important Prognostic Determinant of Colorectal Cancer Using Digital Image Analysis

ABSTRACTBackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) is a commonly diagnosed malignancy with significant mortality rates worldwide. The identification of robust prognostic biomarkers for prediction of survival outcomes and recurrence can aid disease management and improve patients' quality of living.AimThis study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of cadherin 17 (CDH17) tissue expression in CRC patients by utilizing a standardized automated immunohistochemistry (IHC) platform integrated with a digitalized scoring system.Methods and ResultsIHC was conducted to assess CDH17 expression on tumor tissues obtained from 150 retrospective CRC cases. A computer‐assisted imaging analysis was performed to quantify CDH17 tissue expression using an IHC scoring algorithm known as the Membrane (M) Score. The relationship between CDH17 M Score and clinicopathological factors such as TNM staging, distant metastasis, and recurrence status was analyzed. The prognostic value of CDH17 M Score was determined by Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression analysis for overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS). Comparison of M Score and pathologist visual scoring was made to assess the validity of software‐derived IHC scoring. CDH17 expression, as measured by M Score, was found to be significantly increased in tumor tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues, and its expression is associated with advanced staging and distant metastasis (normal vs. tumor, p = 0.0011; Stages IV vs. I–III, p &lt; 0.0162; with vs. without metastasis, p = 0.0026; Mann–Whitney U test). Prognostic analysis revealed that high CDH17 M Score was associated with poor OS and RFS (OS, p = 0.0118; RFS, p = 0.0021; log‐rank test). Furthermore, multivariate Cox regression analysis identified that CDH17 M Score was an independent prognostic predictor for OS (HR = 2.296, 95% CI = 1.154–4.968, p = 0.0240) and RFS (HR = 2.489, 95% CI = 1.062–6.494, p = 0.0447).ConclusionIncreased CDH17 M Score was associated with advanced tumor staging and poor survival outcomes using an automated IHC system integrated with a digital image analysis software, highlighting CDH17 could serve as an independent prognostic marker for CRC patients.

Three-dimensional digital imaging analysis of the palatal bone thickness for orthodontic mini-implant insertion – determination of the safe zone and angulation

BackgroundIn order to successfully perform orthodontic mini-implant procedures successfully for the subsequent anchoring of orthodontic appliances, it is crucial to know the palatal bone thickness. This is usually assessed using two-dimensional radiographs. The purpose of this study was to use a three-dimensional digital imaging measurement method to provide information on palatal bone volume and bone thickness and to make recommendations on the optimal and safe insertion site and angle for palatal mini-implants.MethodsFor this observational, cross-section study, pre-existing cone beam computed tomography scans of 184 patients were converted into 3D Standard Tessellation Language (STL) models of the maxilla. The area between the canine and the first molar was divided into 6 regions of interest (ROIs), three on the left side of the palate and three on the right side. The bone thickness of the palate was analyzed volumetrically and linearly while simulating different mini-implant insertion angles of 0°, 10°, 20° and 30° degrees relative to the palatal surface.ResultsAmong the ROIs, the greatest mean bone thickness was observed in the region of the first premolars with a mean distance (MD) of 10.44 ± 2.53 mm and decreased from anterior to posterior (MD: 3.44 ± 1.16 mm). The highest volume (Vol) values were also measured in the anterior palatal region (Vol: 1127.26 ± 483.91 mm3), while there was also a decrease in the posterior region (Vol: 394.36 ± 180.22 mm3). Regarding the simulated palatal mini-implant insertion sites, the greatest bone thickness was found in the anterior region, at the level of the canines with an angle of 0° (MD: 12.25 ± 3.75 mm). In the more posterior region, at the level between the first and second premolars, the greatest bone thickness was observed at an angle of 30° (MD: 7.93 ± 3.81 mm). Gender differences were found.ConclusionThis clinical study showed that the paramedian region at the level of the first premolar is the safest site for orthodontic mini-implant placement as evaluated by three-dimensional measurements. The results showed that implant insertion angle, gender and age are important aspects to consider when planning and inserting orthodontic palatal mini-implants.Trial registrationN.a.

Abstract B029: Mapping the vascular walls of colorectal cancer

Abstract Introduction: Properties of tumor angiogenesis impact on tumor growth and composition of the tumor microenvironment. Tumor vessels are composed of pericytes and other mural cells. Detailed characterization of the cellular composition of the microvasculature can suggest functional vessel and case properties relevant for outcome, response to treatment and immune surveillance. Results: Based on single cell RNA-seq from three human stage II/III colon cancers and pilot in-situ multi-antibody staining of six tumors two main clusters of perivascular cells were identified; B1 (MCAM+, MYH11-) and B2 (MCAM+, MYH11+) cells. B1 cells displayed pericyte features including expression of RGS5, whereas B2 cells showed high expression of smooth muscle cell markers like ACTG2 and Desmin. Desmin-high B2 cells were predominantly located in muscular layers, whereas Desmin-low/MYH11-high B2 cells showed perivascular enrichment. An extended novel analyses workflow of digital image analysis was used to profile peri-endothelial composition in 19 intervals; 11 1-µm intervals from 0 to 10 µm and 8 5-µm intervals from 10 to 50 µm from endothelial areas. Each of these expansion areas was quantitated regarding density of PDGFRB+/- cells including B1/B2 cells, and a MYH11+/MCAM- cells. Density of macrophage subsets (CD68-positive subsets defined by CD163 and CD11c) were also quantitated. In general, B1 cells showed stronger spatial association with endothelial cells than B2 cells, and this spatial association was stronger for the PDGFRB+ B1 subset. Survival analysis indicated that prognostic relevance was strongest when PDGFRB+ (favorable prognosis) cells were closest to endothelial cells. Regarding perivascular macrophage density, M0 and transit M1/M2 macrophages were predominantly enriched in the peri-endothelial regions, whereas density of M1 and M2 increased gradually as distance from vessels increased. M2 density was overall associated with poor prognosis, whereas high density of other macrophage subsets overall was associated with good prognosis. Ongoing studies are using a clustering-based approach to identify vessel subsets, and prognosis associations are being consolidated in additional cohorts. Summary: This study provides a novel approach for high resolution profiling of perivascular status in CRC, and possibly other tumor types, that could be of specific importance to identify tumor features associated with response to angiogenesis-directed therapies. Citation Format: Linglong( 凌 龙 ) Huang( 黄 ), Mercedes Herrera, Jonas Sjölund, Vladimir Chocoloff, Simon Joost, Rasul M. Tabiev, Lina Wik Leiss, Carina Strell, Luis Nunes, Artur Mezheyeuski, David Edler, Anna Martling, Fredrik Pontén, Bengt Glimelius, Tobias Sjöblom, Maria Kasper, Kristian Pietras, Arne Östman. Mapping the vascular walls of colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Tumor-body Interactions: The Roles of Micro- and Macroenvironment in Cancer; 2024 Nov 17-20; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(22_Suppl):Abstract nr B029.

An introduction for non-experts on using X-ray micro computed tomography as a tool for pore scale digital subsurface characterisation of siliciclastic materials

This paper presents an overview of using X-ray micro computed tomography (μCT) as a valuable tool for micro scale investigation of siliciclastic materials. When processed using digital image analysis (DIA), valuable quantitative data can be extracted from μCT 3D images. Subsurface reservoirs are of great importance to society as fluid-bearing formations, but also as storage reservoirs for carbon dioxide. μCT imaging has the capability to perform preliminary, highly detailed investigations of potential reservoirs. This approach has a range of benefits when compared to traditional 2D techniques, such as optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Key advantages include the technique being non-destructive and capable of 3D and 4D visualisation. This facilitates rapid repeated digital measurements and experiments on microstructures. Digital samples can also be readily shared within the scientific community to replicate results and quickly launch new investigations. However, limitations still exist, posing challenges to the wider application of such a methodology. Such limitations include the identification of a representative elementary volume (REV), computational cost, and suitable processing of the output image data. Here, we highlight the value of using μCT and DIA, from our first experiences, to facilitate pore scale siliciclastic reservoir characterisation, but also highlight our perceived limitations and barriers to its much wider application. This paper introduces the key processing stages, opportunities and limitations of these techniques.

Analysis of the changes in filtration and capacity properties of the oil and gas condensate field reservoirs using X-ray computed tomography methods

Objective. To study the nature of changes in structural, capacity and filtration properties of the Chayanda oil and gas condensate field reservoir resulting from mechanical and hydrodynamic testing and to improve the quality of laboratory assessment of the reservoir properties of rocks by applying the digital approach. Materials and methods. A high-resolution X-ray micro-CT scanner ProCon X-Ray CT-MINI was used for computed tomography. Digital analysis of images was carried out in GeoDict software. Results. The results of digital analysis of changes in the pore space of hydrocarbon reservoir by computer tomography methods after the tests with fluid filtration under baric conditions are presented, including comparison of macroscopic changes in the pore space and determination of the nature of changes in reservoir porosity and pore geometry at the macro level. Porosity values were determined using digital methods and compared with laboratory data. Numerical modeling of filtration processes on the created 3D models of the rock was performed. The fact of nonuniform distribution of filtration flows was established: filtration in the rock occurs mainly through isolated alternating channels. It was determined that the change in the rock pore space occurred mainly due to deformation and expansion of the walls of the main filtration channels. Conclusions. Nonuniformity of changes in filtration-capacitance properties of rock specimens caused by mechanical and hydrodynamic tests can lead to incorrect estimation of porosity and permeability when applying traditional laboratory methods. The results of nondestructive digital studies can be advised as a supplement to laboratory studies of core material properties. Joint application of digital and traditional laboratory methods allows obtaining the most complete range of data on reservoir properties to solve problems arising during development.

Non-destructive measurement of chlorophyll content in Sonchus oleraceus L. (Asteraceae) under variations in cultivation and planting season using digital image analysis

Non-destructive measurement of chlorophyll content in Sonchus oleraceus L. (Asteraceae) under variations in cultivation and planting season using digital image analysis

Mortars in the Archaeological Site of Hierapolis of Phrygia (Denizli, Turkey) from Imperial to Byzantine Age

Hierapolis of Phrygia, an archaeological site in southwestern Turkey, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. During archaeological campaigns, 71 mortar samples from public buildings were collected, dating from the Julio-Claudian to the Middle Byzantine period. The samples were analyzed using a multi-analytical approach including polarized optical microscopy (POM), digital image analysis (DIA), X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and SEM–EDS to trace the raw materials and understand the evolution of mortar composition and technology over time. During the Roman period, travertine and marble were commonly used in binder production, while marble dominated in the Byzantine period. The aggregates come mainly from sands of the Lycian Nappe and Menderes Massif, with carbonate and silicate rock fragments. Variations in composition, average size and circularity suggest changes in raw material sources in both Roman and Byzantine periods. Cocciopesto mortar was used in water-related structures from the Flavian to the Severan period, but, in the Byzantine period, it also appeared in non-hydraulic contexts. Straw became a common organic additive in Byzantine renders, marking a shift from the exclusively inorganic aggregates of Roman renders. This study illustrates the evolving construction technologies and material sources used throughout the city’s history.

Radiomics-Based Diagnosis in Dentomaxillofacial Radiology: A Systematic Review.

Radiomics is a quantitative tool for digital image analysis. This systematic review aims to investigate the scientific articles to evaluate the potential implications of Radiomics analysis in Dentomaxillofacial Radiology (DMFR). Studies regarding Radiomics applications in DMFR and human samples, in vivo study, a case reports/series if ≧5 samples were included, while case reports/series if < 5 samples, articles other than in English, abstracts without full text, and studies published before 2015 were excluded. Fifty-one articles were selected from 3789 literatures. The QUADAS-2 tool was used for risk of bias assessment. The accuracy of predicting dentomaxillofacial pathologies was considered as the primary outcome, and the modeling type of Radiomics was considered as the secondary outcome. A meta-analysis could not be performed due to the lack of information and standardization among the reported accuracies. The reported accuracies were found between 0.66 and 99.65%. Logistic regression (n = 6) was found to be the most common Radiomics modeling type, followed by Support Vector Machine and Decision Tree (n = 5). Second-order statistics (n = 38) was the most common type of Radiomics application, followed by first-order (n = 26), higher-order (n = 20), and shape-based (n = 15) statistics. Further work is needed to increase standardization in the Radiomics workflow. Quantitative image analysis is an alternative tool for conventional visual radiographic evaluation. Radiomics systems depend on elements such as imaging modality, feature type, data mining, or statistical method. Radiomics applications do not justify digital transformation on their own, but the potential of its integration into the digital workflow is considerable.

The Development of a Non-Invasive Screening Method Based on Serum microRNAs to Quantify the Percentage of Liver Steatosis.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is often asymptomatic and underdiagnosed; consequently, there is a demand for simple, non-invasive diagnostic tools. In this study, we developed a method to quantify liver steatosis based on miRNAs, present in liver and serum, that correlate with liver fat. The miRNAs were analyzed by miRNAseq in liver samples from two cohorts of patients with a precise quantification of liver steatosis. Common miRNAs showing correlation with liver steatosis were validated by RT-qPCR in paired liver and serum samples. Multivariate models were built using partial least squares (PLS) regression to predict the percentage of liver steatosis from serum miRNA levels. Leave-one-out cross validation and external validation were used for model selection and to estimate predictive performance. The miRNAseq results disclosed (a) 144 miRNAs correlating with triglycerides in a set of liver biobank samples (n = 20); and (b) 124 and 102 miRNAs correlating with steatosis by biopsy digital image and MRI analyses, respectively, in liver samples from morbidly obese patients (n = 24). However, only 35 miRNAs were common in both sets of samples. RT-qPCR allowed to validate the correlation of 10 miRNAs in paired liver and serum samples. The development of PLS models to quantitatively predict steatosis demonstrated that the combination of serum miR-145-3p, 122-5p, 143-3p, 500a-5p, and 182-5p provided the lowest root mean square error of cross validation (RMSECV = 1.1, p-value = 0.005). External validation of this model with a cohort of mixed MASLD patients (n = 25) showed a root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) of 5.3. In conclusion, it is possible to predict the percentage of hepatic steatosis with a low error rate by quantifying the serum level of five miRNAs using a cost-effective and easy-to-implement RT-qPCR method.