Aims: This study aims at designing and implementing syllabus-oriented question-bank system that is capable of producing paper-based exams with multiple forms along with answer keys. The developed software tool is nam...Aims: This study aims at designing and implementing syllabus-oriented question-bank system that is capable of producing paper-based exams with multiple forms along with answer keys. The developed software tool is named Χ(Chi)-Pro Milestone and supports four types of questions, namely: Multiple-choice, True/False, Short-Answer and Free-Response Essay questions. The study is motivated by the fact that student number in schools and universities is continuously growing at high, non-linear, and uncontrolled rates. This growth, however, is not accompanied by an equivalent growth of educational resources (mainly: instructors, classrooms, and labs). A direct result of this situation is having relatively large number of students in each classroom. It is observed that providing and using online-examining systems could be intractable and expensive. As an alternative, paper-based exams can be used. One main issue is that manually produced paper-based exams are of low quality because of some human factors such as instability and relatively narrow range of topics [1]. Further, it is observed that instructors usually need to spend a lot of time and energy in composing paper-based exams with multiple forms. Therefore, the use of computers for automatic production of paper-based exams from question banks is becoming more and more important. Methodology: The design and evaluation of X-Pro Milestone are done by considering a basic set of design principles that are based on a list of identified Functional and Non-Functional Requirements. Deriving those requirements is made possible by developing X-Pro Milestone using the Iterative and Incremental model from software engineering domain. Results: We demonstrate that X-Pro Milestone has a number of excellent characteristics compared to the exam-preparation and question banks tools available in market. Some of these characteristics are: ease of use and operation, user-friendly interface and good usability, high security and protection of the question bank-items, high stability, and reliability. Further, X-Pro Milestone makes initiating, maintaining and archiving Question-Banks and produced exams possible. Putting X-Pro Milestone into real use has showed that X-Pro Milestone is easy to be learned and effectively used. We demonstrate that X-Pro Milestone is a cost-effective alternative to online examining systems with more and richer features and with low infrastructure requirements.展开更多
Fatigue is a common sense caused by crushing labor, stressful social events and various illnesses. It is usually judged by their subjective symptoms, but it should be evaluated in an objective perspective. Here we sho...Fatigue is a common sense caused by crushing labor, stressful social events and various illnesses. It is usually judged by their subjective symptoms, but it should be evaluated in an objective perspective. Here we show that the decrease of working efficiency and sympathetic hyperactivity are associated with mental fatigue state caused by prolonged mental workload. Recently we made a new mental fatigue model of healthy volunteers caused by long-term computerized Kraepelin test (CKT) workload. CKT is our new software for automatically checking the calculation capability, with which it is easy to determine the reaction time (RT), coefficient of variance of reaction time (CV), and accuracy of the answers (AC) during tasks. We put 24 healthy volunteers into the fatigue state by subjecting them to 120 minutes’ CKT workload, and then studied the changes in fatigue sensation, RT, CV, and AC before and after the CKT workload. The fatigue sensation, RT, and CV were clearly increased by the fatigue-inducing task and recovered during the resting period. We also studied the changes in autonomic nerve activity by using heart rate variability analysis. The low/high frequency component ratio (LF/HF) was signifi-cantly increased by the fatigue-inducing task and decreased by resting, suggesting that mental stress causes a relatively sympathetic nerve activity-dominant state. Therefore, our new fatigue model involving a long-term CKT workload is a good mental fatigue model to provide much information about the fatigue state simultane-ously, and the increase of RT, CV, and proportion of sympathetic activity (LF/HF) are associated with mental fatigue state. These might be useful objective biomarkers or evaluating a mental fatigue state.展开更多
Objective. To study the difference of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) in high-resolution computerized tomography and pulmonary function test among different connective tissue diseases (CTDs). Methods. 209 patients w...Objective. To study the difference of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) in high-resolution computerized tomography and pulmonary function test among different connective tissue diseases (CTDs). Methods. 209 patients with different CTDs were recruited and underwent lung HRCT and PFT. Eerythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum ferritin (SF), anti-SSA, and so on were tested. Based on HRCT, a patient was classified into ILD group (CTD+ILD) or non-ILD group (CTD-ILD). HRCT, PFT, and laboratory markers were compared according to CTDs and CTD-associated ILDs. Results. The incidences of ILD were 79.6%, 82.0%, 89.7%, and 97.1% respectively for Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), primary Sjogren’s symptom (pSS), dermatomyositis/polymyositis (DM/PM), and systemic sclerosis (SSc) groups. RA and pSS patients exhibited more nodules, patching, ground-glass opacity, and cord shadow foci in HRCT, DM/PM and SSc patients exhibited more reticular opacity and honeycombing foci. RA and pSS patients exhibited more obstructive ventilatory disorder, small airway dysfunction and emphysema in PFT, and DM/PM and SSc patients exhibited more restrictive ventilatory disorder, mixed ventilatory disorder. ESR, CRP and SF were significantly higher in total CTD+ILD group than in total CTD-ILD group (P = 0.047, 0.006, 0.004, respectively), and higher in different CTD+ ILD groups than in comparable CTD-ILD groups (P = 0.049, 0.048, and 0.023, pSS+ILD, SSc+ILD and RA+ILD compared to pSS-ILD, SSc-ILD and RA-ILD, respectively for ESR, CRP, SF). The positive rate of anti-SSA was significantly higher in DM/PM+ILD group than in DM/PM-ILD group (P = 0.025). Conclusions. The manifestations and incidences of ILDs differ among different CTDs in HRCT and PFT, and inflammation and anti-SSA are positively correlated with ILDs in different CTDs, which provide important evidences for judging disease condition and prognosis.展开更多
Primary malignant lymphoma of the prostate is exceedingly rare.Here we report a case of a 65-year-old man who presented with increased urinary frequency,urinary urgency,and urinary incontinence for two years.Benign pr...Primary malignant lymphoma of the prostate is exceedingly rare.Here we report a case of a 65-year-old man who presented with increased urinary frequency,urinary urgency,and urinary incontinence for two years.Benign prostatic hypertrophy was suspected at primary impression.Ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic lesion of the prostate.The total serum prostate-specific antigen was within normal range.Positron emission tomography/computerized tomography(PET/CT)showed a hypermetabolic prostatic lesion.Prostate biopsy was consistent with a non-germinal center diffuse large B cell lymphoma.There was complete remission of the prostatic lesion following six cycles of chemotherapy as shown on the second PET/CT imaging.18F-fluoro-deoxy glucose PET/CT is not only a complement to conventional imaging,but also plays a significant role in the diagnosis and evaluation of treatment response of prostatic lymphoma.展开更多
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation(TAVI) has been shown in improve outcome of severe aortic stenosis(AS) patients, deemed surgical high-risk or inoperable, and has grown popular in the past decade. The procedure ...Transcatheter aortic valve implantation(TAVI) has been shown in improve outcome of severe aortic stenosis(AS) patients, deemed surgical high-risk or inoperable, and has grown popular in the past decade. The procedure requires accurate prior planning, and demands an integration of a "Heart Team" consisted from cardiac surgeons, interventional cardiologists, and imaging experts. The role of cardiac imaging and especially multi-slice computerized tomography(MSCT) has been a mainstay of pre-evaluation of severe AS patients that allows to accurately depict and size the cardiac and vascular structures, and has become the primary tool for procedural planning. This article is aimed to evaluate current uses of MSCT in severe AS patients undergoing TAVI, delineate the various measurements derived from this modality and review current literature regarding it's advantages over other techniques.展开更多
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is commonly associated with comorbid depression,which exacerbates cognitive impairments and negatively impacts quality of life.Despite the high prevalence and burden of these comorbidities,eff...BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is commonly associated with comorbid depression,which exacerbates cognitive impairments and negatively impacts quality of life.Despite the high prevalence and burden of these comorbidities,effective treatment options,particularly for cognitive dysfunction,remain limited.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of computerized cognitive behavioral therapy(CCBT)with sertraline vs sertraline monotherapy in improving depressive symptoms,cognitive function,and quality of life in schizophrenia and depressive episodes.METHODS In this single-center,randomized controlled trial,68 adults[mean age(SD)=36.5(10.0),57.4%male]with schizophrenia and depressive symptoms were randomly assigned to receive either CCBT with sertraline or sertraline monotherapy during a 4-week hospitalization.The CCBT intervention involved 45-60-minute sessions twice weekly for four weeks.Outcomes included comparisons of depressive symptoms(Calgary depression scale for schizophrenia),cognitive function[MATRICS consensus cognitive battery(MCCB)],and quality of life(36-item short form survey)between the groups.RESULTS The experimental group showed greater improvements in depressive symptoms at 4,8,and 12 weeks compared to the controls,with the most notable difference at 12 weeks[mean difference(MD)=-1.7;P<0.001;Cohen’s d=0.9].Cognitive function improved across all MCCB domains in the experimental group,with higher processing speed scores(MD=4.1;P=0.043;Cohen’s d=0.5)and social cognition scores(MD=4.9;P=0.006;Cohen’s d=0.7)than in the control group.Quality of life,particularly in mental health,was significantly better in the experimental group.CONCLUSION CCBT with sertraline was more effective than sertraline monotherapy for patients with schizophrenia and depressive episodes,supporting its use as an adjunctive therapy.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the ability of contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CECT) to characterize the nature of peripancreatic collections.METHODS: Twenty five patients with peripancreatic collections on CECT and who u...AIM: To evaluate the ability of contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CECT) to characterize the nature of peripancreatic collections.METHODS: Twenty five patients with peripancreatic collections on CECT and who underwent operative intervention for severe acute pancreatitis were retrospectively studied. The collections were classified into (1) necrosis without frank pus; (2) necrosis with pus; and (3) fluid without necrosis. A blinded radiologist assessed the preoperative CTs of each patient for necrosis and peripancreatic fluid collections. Peripancreatic collections were described in terms of volume, location, number, heterogeneity, fluid attenuation, wall perceptibility, wall enhancement, presence of extraluminal gas, and vascular compromise.RESULTS: Fifty-four collections were identif ied at operation, of which 45 (83%) were identif ied on CECT. Of these, 25/26 (96%) had necrosis without pus, 16/19 (84%) had necrosis with pus, and 4/9 (44%) had fluid without necrosis. Among the study characteristics, fluid heterogeneity was seen in a greater proportion of collections in the group with necrosis and pus, compared to the other two groups (94% vs 48% and 25%, P = 0.002 and 0.003, respectively). Among the wall characteristics, irregularity was seen in a greater proportion of collections in the groups with necrosis with and without pus, when compared to the group with fluid without necrosis (88% and 71% vs 25%, P = 0.06 and P < 0.01, respectively). The combination of heterogeneity and presence of extraluminal gas had a specif icity and positive likelihood ratio of 92% and 5.9, respectively, in detecting pus. CONCLUSION: Most of the peripancreatic collections seen on CECT in patients with severe acute pancreatitis who require operative intervention contain necrotic tissue. CECT has a somewhat limited role in differentiating the different types of collections.展开更多
RompecPC is a computerized program designed to create and assemble jigsaw puzzles. The program automatically records the solver’s responses as the number of pieces positioned correctly, the number of correct and inco...RompecPC is a computerized program designed to create and assemble jigsaw puzzles. The program automatically records the solver’s responses as the number of pieces positioned correctly, the number of correct and incorrect movements, the number of times that she/he attempts to move a piece to the same place (perseverations), and the latency and place to which each piece is moved or attempted to be moved. These features facilitate the implementation and evaluation of puzzles while also reducing human error. Therefore, RompePC is a useful tool for the neuropsychological assessment of visuospatial skills in both clinical and experimental research.展开更多
●AIM:To develop a novel approach called the Autoacuity Tester,and to evaluate its validity,especially the sensitivity and specificity for detecting amblyopia.●METHODS:Children aged from 3 to 12 y(n=552)were enrolled...●AIM:To develop a novel approach called the Autoacuity Tester,and to evaluate its validity,especially the sensitivity and specificity for detecting amblyopia.●METHODS:Children aged from 3 to 12 y(n=552)were enrolled in the study.The validity of the Autoacuity Tester was evaluated by comparing it to the Tumbling E Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study(ETDRS)acuity chart for school age children,and Lea Symbols and Teller acuity card(TAC)for preschool children.The repeatability was assessed by coefficient of repeatability(COR).The sensitivity and specificity for detecting amblyopia were calculated.●RESULTS:The mean difference(95%limits of agreement)between the Autoacuity Tester and the ETDRS tests were-0.03(-0.24,0.19)logMAR for the school age group.In preschool children,the mean difference was 0.04(-0.14,0.21)logMAR between the Autoacuity Tester and the TAC and 0.00(-0.17,0.18)logMAR between the Autoacuity Tester and the Lea Symbols.For the school age group,the COR was 0.20 logMAR for the Autoacuity Tester and 0.18 logMAR for the ETDRS.For the preschool group,the COR was 0.13 logMAR for the Autoacuity Tester and 0.21 logMAR for TAC.The Autoacuity Tester(88%)is more sensitive than TAC(72%)in detecting amblyopia(P=0.04),while had similar specificity(92%vs 90%,P=0.20).●CONCLUSION:The Autoacuity Tester provides a reliable alternative for assessing visual acuity,and offers advantage of higher testability and repeatability for preschool children.展开更多
BACKGROUND Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP),a condition with rapid onset,critical condition and unsatisfactory prognosis,poses a certain threat to human health,warranting optimization of relevant treatment plans to impr...BACKGROUND Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP),a condition with rapid onset,critical condition and unsatisfactory prognosis,poses a certain threat to human health,warranting optimization of relevant treatment plans to improve treatment efficacy.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of computerized tomography-guided the-rapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)combined with somatostatin(SS)in the treatment of SAP.METHODS Forty-two SAP patients admitted to The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from June 2020 to June 2023 were selected.On the basis of routine treatment,20 patients received SS therapy(control group)and 22 patients were given CT-TPPCD plus SS intervention(research group).The efficacy,safety(pancreatic fistula,intra-abdominal hemorrhage,sepsis,and organ dysfunction syndrome),abdominal bloating and pain relief time,bowel recovery time,hospital stay,inflammatory indicators(C-reactive protein,interleukin-6,and pro-calcitonin),and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation(APACHE)II score of both groups were evaluated for comparison.RESULTS Compared with the control group,the research group had a markedly higher total effective rate,faster abdominal bloating and pain relief and bowel recovery,INTRODUCTION Pancreatitis,an inflammatory disease occurring in the pancreatic tissue,is classified as either acute or chronic and is associated with high morbidity and mortality,imposing a socioeconomic burden[1,2].The pathogenesis of this disease involves early protease activation,activation of nuclear factor kappa-B-related inflammatory reactions,and infiltration of immune cells[3].Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP)is a serious condition involving systemic injury and subsequent possible organ failure,accounting for 20%of all acute pancreatitis cases[4].SAP is also characterized by rapid onset,critical illness and unsatisfactory prognosis and is correlated with serious adverse events such as systemic inflammatory response syn-drome and acute lung injury,threatening the health of patients[5,6].Therefore,timely and effective therapeutic inter-ventions are of great significance for improving patient prognosis and ensuring therapeutic effects.Somatostatin(SS),a peptide hormone that can be secreted by endocrine cells and the central nervous system,is in-volved in the regulatory mechanism of glucagon and insulin synthesis in the pancreas[7].It has complex and pleiotropic effects on the gastrointestinal tract,which can inhibit the release of gastrointestinal hormones and negatively modulate the exocrine function of the stomach,pancreas and bile,while exerting a certain influence on the absorption of the di-gestive system[8,9].SS has shown certain clinical effectiveness when applied to SAP patients and can regulate the severity of SAP and immune inflammatory responses,and this regulation is related to its influence on leukocyte apoptosis and adhesion[10,11].Computerized tomography-guided therapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)is a surgical procedure to collect lesion fluid and pus samples from necrotic lesions and perform puncture and drainage by means of CT image examination and precise positioning[12].In the research of Liu et al[13],CT-TPPCD applied to pa-tients undergoing pancreatic surgery contributes to not only good curative effects but also a low surgical risk.Baudin et al[14]also reported that CT-TPPCD has a clinical success rate of 64.6%in patients with acute infectious necrotizing pan-creatitis,with nonfatal surgery-related complications found in only two cases,suggesting that this procedure is clinically effective and safe in the treatment of the disease.In light of the limited studies on the efficacy and safety of SS plus CT-TPPCD in SAP treatment,this study performed a relevant analysis to improve clinical outcomes in SAP patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND Patients with schizophrenia may have various disease manifestations,most of which gradually tend toward incurable chronic decline,leading to mental disability.The basic symptoms of the disease can impair so...BACKGROUND Patients with schizophrenia may have various disease manifestations,most of which gradually tend toward incurable chronic decline,leading to mental disability.The basic symptoms of the disease can impair social function,whereas long-term hospitalization produces hospitalization syndrome,causing serious damage to social function.AIM To investigate the effects of Computerized Cognitive Remediation Therapy(CCRT)on cognitive and social functioning in patients with chronic schizophrenia.METHODS A retrospective analysis of 120 patients with chronic schizophrenia in Shanghai Pudong New Area Mental Health Center was performed.They were divided into an intervention group(60 cases treated with CCRT combined with conventional medication)and a control group(60 cases treated with conventional medication).After treatment,effects on cognitive function and social roles were observed in both groups.The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale(PANSS)was used to assess the patients'psychiatric symptoms.The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test(WCST)was used to assess the patients'cognitive functioning,and the Social Functioning Scale for Psychiatric Inpatients(SSPI)was used to assess the social functioning of the inpatient psychiatric patients.RESULTS No significant differences were observed in the PANSS,WCST,and SSPI intergroup scores before treatment(P>0.05).After 2,4,and 6 wk of therapy,general psychopathological factors,positive symptoms,negative symptoms,and total PANSS scores of PANSS in the intervention group were lower than in the control group(P<0.05).After 2,4,and 6 wk of treatment,the number of false responses,number of persistent bugs,and total responses in the WCST were significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group(P<0.05),and the amount of completed classification was significantly higher than in the control group(P<0.05).After 2,4,and 6 wk of therapy,the SSPI scores were significantly greater than those of the controls(P<0.05).After 6 wk of treatment,the efficacy rates of the control and intervention groups were 81.67%and 91.67%,respectively.The curative effect in the intervention group was significantly higher than that in the control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION CCRT can significantly improve cognitive function and social abilities in patients with chronic schizophrenia.展开更多
Since the process of the surgery navigation is an operation-sensitive process, it is important to record and archive the whole process. In this paper, some key technologies are introduced to accomplish process archive...Since the process of the surgery navigation is an operation-sensitive process, it is important to record and archive the whole process. In this paper, some key technologies are introduced to accomplish process archive of computerized surgery navigation based on the picture archiving and communication system(PACS). Firstly, the images and track data are acquired by the screen captured tool and the navigation software. Secondly, these image and data files are converted to the digital imaging and communications in medicine(DICOM) files supported by PACS and transferred into the database in PACS. The process of surgery navigation is recorded and archived. Finally, the original data of process archive is acquired from PACS, and this data is used to play back and restore the process of surgery navigation.展开更多
We read with great interest the article by Vege et al published in issue 34 of World J Gastroenterol 2010.The article evaluates the ability of contrast-enhanced computerized tomography(CECT)to characterize the nature ...We read with great interest the article by Vege et al published in issue 34 of World J Gastroenterol 2010.The article evaluates the ability of contrast-enhanced computerized tomography(CECT)to characterize the nature of peripancreatic collections found at surgery.The results of their study indicate that most of the peripancreatic collections seen on CECT in patients with severe acute pancreatitis who require operative intervention contain necrotic tissue and CECT has a limited role in differentiating various types of collections.However,there are some points that need to be addressed,including data about the stage of acute pancreatitis in which CECT was done and the time span between CECT examination and surgery.展开更多
For positioning a moving target, a maximum intensity projection (MIP) or average intensity projection (AIP) image derived from 4DCT is often used as the reference image which is matched to free breathing cone-beam CT ...For positioning a moving target, a maximum intensity projection (MIP) or average intensity projection (AIP) image derived from 4DCT is often used as the reference image which is matched to free breathing cone-beam CT (FBCBCT) before treatment. This method can be highly accurate if the respiratory motion of the patient is stable. However, a patient’s breathing pattern is often irregular. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of irregular respiration on positioning accuracy for a moving target aligned with FBCBCT. Nine patients’ respiratory motion curves were selected to drive a Quasar motion phantom with one embedded cubic and two spherical targets. A 4DCT of the phantom was acquired on a CT scanner (Philips Brilliance 16) equipped with a Varian RPM system. The phase binned 4DCT images and the corresponding MIP and AIP images were transferred into Eclipse for analysis. FBCBCTs of the phantom driven by the same respiratory curves were also acquired on a Varian TrueBeam and fused such that both CBCT and MIP/AIP images share the same target zero positions. The sphere and cube volumes and centroid differences (alignment error) determined by MIP, AIP and FBCBCT images were calculated, respectively. Compared to the volume determined by MIP, the volumes of the cube, large sphere, and small sphere in AIP and FBCBCT images were smaller. The alignment errors for the cube, large sphere and small sphere with center to center matches between MIP and FBCBCT were 2.5 ± 1.8 mm, 2.4 ± 2.1 mm, and 3.8 ± 2.8 mm, and the alignment errors between AIP and FBCBCT were 0.5 ± 1.1 mm, 0.3 ± 0.8 mm, and 1.8 ± 2.0 mm, respectively. AIP images appear to be superior reference images to MIP images. However, irregular respiratory pattern could compromise the positioning accuracy, especially for smaller targets.展开更多
A computerized method for determining rock joint coefficients is presented.Two relative similarity indicators are introduced to classify surface morphology of rock joints.The classification enables to compare investig...A computerized method for determining rock joint coefficients is presented.Two relative similarity indicators are introduced to classify surface morphology of rock joints.The classification enables to compare investigated and database rock joints.Such a comparison aims at finding the couple of surfaces that are distinguished by the highest dynamical conformity.The first absolute indicator results from the Fourier matrix and evaluates wavy shapes of surfaces.The second absolute indicator quantifies the heights of surface reliefs and is defined as the root mean square height of the surface outline.Numerical reliability of these indicators is tested within the surface analysis of a series of limestone specimens.Besides the computerized assessment,25 people have performed visual assessment of these limestone specimens.The results of visual assessments have been statistically processed and compared to the results received from the computerized procedure.The newly introduced absolute indicators have proved to be prospective numerical tools for evaluating joint rock coefficients.展开更多
Computer-aided Design (CAD), video games and other computer graphic related technology evolves substantial processing to geometric elements. A novel geometric computing method is proposed with the integration of des...Computer-aided Design (CAD), video games and other computer graphic related technology evolves substantial processing to geometric elements. A novel geometric computing method is proposed with the integration of descriptive geometry, math and computer algorithm. Firstly, geometric elements in general position are transformed to a special position in new coordinate system. Then a 3D problem is projected to new coordinate planes. Finally, according to 2D/3D correspondence principle in descriptive geometry, the solution is constructed computerized drawing process with ruler and compasses. In order to make this method a regular operation, a two-level pattern is established. Basic Layer is a set algebraic packaged function including about ten Primary Geometric Functions (PGF) and one projection transformation. In Application Layer, a proper coordinate is established and a sequence of PGFs is sought for to get the final results. Examples illustrate the advantages of our method on dimension reduction, regulatory and visual computing and robustness.展开更多
The structure of molten DyF_3-LiF system has been simulated by Monte Carlo method.The radial distribution functions(RDFs)and the local structure have been obtained.It is concluded that F^- ions distribute closely arou...The structure of molten DyF_3-LiF system has been simulated by Monte Carlo method.The radial distribution functions(RDFs)and the local structure have been obtained.It is concluded that F^- ions distribute closely around Dy3+ ions.There exist some fissures and holes between F^- ions and Li^+ ions. There are mainly two kinds of ionic types:the complex ions like DyF_n3-n clusters with the central Dy3+ ions (the main ionic clusters are octahedral complex ions like DyF_63-)and the“free”Li^+ ions.Moreover,some complex ions like DyF_n3-n clusters are connected to one another by flourine-bridge,forming more compli- cated ionic clusters like Dy_m3m-n F_n.By calculating the potential energies of all types of ions,it is concluded that Li^+ ions have the highest potential energy in the molten system,which are current-carrying ions in the electrolytic conductance.展开更多
Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency(LSCD)is an eye disease that can cause corneal opacity and vascularization.In its advanced stage it can lead to a degree of visual impairment.It involves the changing in the semispherical sh...Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency(LSCD)is an eye disease that can cause corneal opacity and vascularization.In its advanced stage it can lead to a degree of visual impairment.It involves the changing in the semispherical shape of the cornea to a drooping shape to downwards direction.LSCD is hard to be diagnosed at early stages.The color and texture of the cornea surface can provide significant information about the cornea affected by LSCD.Parameters such as shape and texture are very crucial to differentiate normal from LSCD cornea.Although several medical approaches exist,most of them requires complicated procedure and medical devices.Therefore,in this paper,we pursued the development of a LSCD detection technique(LDT)utilizing image processing methods.Early diagnosis of LSCD is very crucial for physicians to arrange for effective treatment.In the proposed technique,we developed a method for LSCD detection utilizing frontal eye images.A dataset of 280 eye images of frontal and lateral LSCD and normal patients were used in this research.First,the cornea region of both frontal and lateral images is segmented,and the geometric features are extracted through the automated active contour model and the spline curve.While the texture features are extracted using the feature selection algorithm.The experimental results exhibited that the combined features of the geometric and texture will exhibit accuracy of 95.95%,sensitivity of 97.91% and specificity of 94.05% with the random forest classifier of n=40.As a result,this research developed a Limbal stem cell deficiency detection system utilizing features’fusion using image processing techniques for frontal and lateral digital images of the eyes.展开更多
Despite lung cancer(LC) screening by low-dose computerized tomography(LDCT) gaining many proponents worldwide, for many years it was not recognized as a life-prolonging and cost-effective procedure, until recently. Pr...Despite lung cancer(LC) screening by low-dose computerized tomography(LDCT) gaining many proponents worldwide, for many years it was not recognized as a life-prolonging and cost-effective procedure, until recently. Prospective observational studies had not been able to prove that this screening prolongs survival, but they helped to specify the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Long-awaited results of a prospective, randomized trial finally provided the evidence that LC screening with LDCT can prolong survival of the screened population. Several costeffectiveness analyses were performed to justify mass introduction of this screening. Results of these analyses are equivocal, although conclusions highly depend upon inclusion and exclusion criteria, methods of analysis and prices of medical procedures which differ between countries as well as the incidence of other pulmonary nodules, especially tuberculosis. Therefore, costeffectiveness analysis should be performed separately for every country. Cost-effectiveness depends especially upon the rate of false-positive results and the rate of unnecessary diagnostic, screening and treatment procedures. To ensure high cost-effectiveness, LC screening should be performed in accordance with screening protocol, in dedicated screening centers equipped with nodule volume change analysis, or as a prospective non-randomized trial, to ensure compliance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. To ensure high cost-effectiveness of LC screening, future research should concentrate on determination of highrisk groups and further specifying the inclusion and exclusion criteria.展开更多
摘要Aims: This study aims at designing and implementing syllabus-oriented question-bank system that is capable of producing paper-based exams with multiple forms along with answer keys. The developed software tool is named Χ(Chi)-Pro Milestone and supports four types of questions, namely: Multiple-choice, True/False, Short-Answer and Free-Response Essay questions. The study is motivated by the fact that student number in schools and universities is continuously growing at high, non-linear, and uncontrolled rates. This growth, however, is not accompanied by an equivalent growth of educational resources (mainly: instructors, classrooms, and labs). A direct result of this situation is having relatively large number of students in each classroom. It is observed that providing and using online-examining systems could be intractable and expensive. As an alternative, paper-based exams can be used. One main issue is that manually produced paper-based exams are of low quality because of some human factors such as instability and relatively narrow range of topics [1]. Further, it is observed that instructors usually need to spend a lot of time and energy in composing paper-based exams with multiple forms. Therefore, the use of computers for automatic production of paper-based exams from question banks is becoming more and more important. Methodology: The design and evaluation of X-Pro Milestone are done by considering a basic set of design principles that are based on a list of identified Functional and Non-Functional Requirements. Deriving those requirements is made possible by developing X-Pro Milestone using the Iterative and Incremental model from software engineering domain. Results: We demonstrate that X-Pro Milestone has a number of excellent characteristics compared to the exam-preparation and question banks tools available in market. Some of these characteristics are: ease of use and operation, user-friendly interface and good usability, high security and protection of the question bank-items, high stability, and reliability. Further, X-Pro Milestone makes initiating, maintaining and archiving Question-Banks and produced exams possible. Putting X-Pro Milestone into real use has showed that X-Pro Milestone is easy to be learned and effectively used. We demonstrate that X-Pro Milestone is a cost-effective alternative to online examining systems with more and richer features and with low infrastructure requirements.
摘要Fatigue is a common sense caused by crushing labor, stressful social events and various illnesses. It is usually judged by their subjective symptoms, but it should be evaluated in an objective perspective. Here we show that the decrease of working efficiency and sympathetic hyperactivity are associated with mental fatigue state caused by prolonged mental workload. Recently we made a new mental fatigue model of healthy volunteers caused by long-term computerized Kraepelin test (CKT) workload. CKT is our new software for automatically checking the calculation capability, with which it is easy to determine the reaction time (RT), coefficient of variance of reaction time (CV), and accuracy of the answers (AC) during tasks. We put 24 healthy volunteers into the fatigue state by subjecting them to 120 minutes’ CKT workload, and then studied the changes in fatigue sensation, RT, CV, and AC before and after the CKT workload. The fatigue sensation, RT, and CV were clearly increased by the fatigue-inducing task and recovered during the resting period. We also studied the changes in autonomic nerve activity by using heart rate variability analysis. The low/high frequency component ratio (LF/HF) was signifi-cantly increased by the fatigue-inducing task and decreased by resting, suggesting that mental stress causes a relatively sympathetic nerve activity-dominant state. Therefore, our new fatigue model involving a long-term CKT workload is a good mental fatigue model to provide much information about the fatigue state simultane-ously, and the increase of RT, CV, and proportion of sympathetic activity (LF/HF) are associated with mental fatigue state. These might be useful objective biomarkers or evaluating a mental fatigue state.
摘要Objective. To study the difference of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) in high-resolution computerized tomography and pulmonary function test among different connective tissue diseases (CTDs). Methods. 209 patients with different CTDs were recruited and underwent lung HRCT and PFT. Eerythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum ferritin (SF), anti-SSA, and so on were tested. Based on HRCT, a patient was classified into ILD group (CTD+ILD) or non-ILD group (CTD-ILD). HRCT, PFT, and laboratory markers were compared according to CTDs and CTD-associated ILDs. Results. The incidences of ILD were 79.6%, 82.0%, 89.7%, and 97.1% respectively for Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), primary Sjogren’s symptom (pSS), dermatomyositis/polymyositis (DM/PM), and systemic sclerosis (SSc) groups. RA and pSS patients exhibited more nodules, patching, ground-glass opacity, and cord shadow foci in HRCT, DM/PM and SSc patients exhibited more reticular opacity and honeycombing foci. RA and pSS patients exhibited more obstructive ventilatory disorder, small airway dysfunction and emphysema in PFT, and DM/PM and SSc patients exhibited more restrictive ventilatory disorder, mixed ventilatory disorder. ESR, CRP and SF were significantly higher in total CTD+ILD group than in total CTD-ILD group (P = 0.047, 0.006, 0.004, respectively), and higher in different CTD+ ILD groups than in comparable CTD-ILD groups (P = 0.049, 0.048, and 0.023, pSS+ILD, SSc+ILD and RA+ILD compared to pSS-ILD, SSc-ILD and RA-ILD, respectively for ESR, CRP, SF). The positive rate of anti-SSA was significantly higher in DM/PM+ILD group than in DM/PM-ILD group (P = 0.025). Conclusions. The manifestations and incidences of ILDs differ among different CTDs in HRCT and PFT, and inflammation and anti-SSA are positively correlated with ILDs in different CTDs, which provide important evidences for judging disease condition and prognosis.
摘要Primary malignant lymphoma of the prostate is exceedingly rare.Here we report a case of a 65-year-old man who presented with increased urinary frequency,urinary urgency,and urinary incontinence for two years.Benign prostatic hypertrophy was suspected at primary impression.Ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic lesion of the prostate.The total serum prostate-specific antigen was within normal range.Positron emission tomography/computerized tomography(PET/CT)showed a hypermetabolic prostatic lesion.Prostate biopsy was consistent with a non-germinal center diffuse large B cell lymphoma.There was complete remission of the prostatic lesion following six cycles of chemotherapy as shown on the second PET/CT imaging.18F-fluoro-deoxy glucose PET/CT is not only a complement to conventional imaging,but also plays a significant role in the diagnosis and evaluation of treatment response of prostatic lymphoma.
摘要Transcatheter aortic valve implantation(TAVI) has been shown in improve outcome of severe aortic stenosis(AS) patients, deemed surgical high-risk or inoperable, and has grown popular in the past decade. The procedure requires accurate prior planning, and demands an integration of a "Heart Team" consisted from cardiac surgeons, interventional cardiologists, and imaging experts. The role of cardiac imaging and especially multi-slice computerized tomography(MSCT) has been a mainstay of pre-evaluation of severe AS patients that allows to accurately depict and size the cardiac and vascular structures, and has become the primary tool for procedural planning. This article is aimed to evaluate current uses of MSCT in severe AS patients undergoing TAVI, delineate the various measurements derived from this modality and review current literature regarding it's advantages over other techniques.
基金Supported by Fuzhou Science and Technology Plan Project,No.2023-S-028.
摘要BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is commonly associated with comorbid depression,which exacerbates cognitive impairments and negatively impacts quality of life.Despite the high prevalence and burden of these comorbidities,effective treatment options,particularly for cognitive dysfunction,remain limited.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of computerized cognitive behavioral therapy(CCBT)with sertraline vs sertraline monotherapy in improving depressive symptoms,cognitive function,and quality of life in schizophrenia and depressive episodes.METHODS In this single-center,randomized controlled trial,68 adults[mean age(SD)=36.5(10.0),57.4%male]with schizophrenia and depressive symptoms were randomly assigned to receive either CCBT with sertraline or sertraline monotherapy during a 4-week hospitalization.The CCBT intervention involved 45-60-minute sessions twice weekly for four weeks.Outcomes included comparisons of depressive symptoms(Calgary depression scale for schizophrenia),cognitive function[MATRICS consensus cognitive battery(MCCB)],and quality of life(36-item short form survey)between the groups.RESULTS The experimental group showed greater improvements in depressive symptoms at 4,8,and 12 weeks compared to the controls,with the most notable difference at 12 weeks[mean difference(MD)=-1.7;P<0.001;Cohen’s d=0.9].Cognitive function improved across all MCCB domains in the experimental group,with higher processing speed scores(MD=4.1;P=0.043;Cohen’s d=0.5)and social cognition scores(MD=4.9;P=0.006;Cohen’s d=0.7)than in the control group.Quality of life,particularly in mental health,was significantly better in the experimental group.CONCLUSION CCBT with sertraline was more effective than sertraline monotherapy for patients with schizophrenia and depressive episodes,supporting its use as an adjunctive therapy.
摘要AIM: To evaluate the ability of contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CECT) to characterize the nature of peripancreatic collections.METHODS: Twenty five patients with peripancreatic collections on CECT and who underwent operative intervention for severe acute pancreatitis were retrospectively studied. The collections were classified into (1) necrosis without frank pus; (2) necrosis with pus; and (3) fluid without necrosis. A blinded radiologist assessed the preoperative CTs of each patient for necrosis and peripancreatic fluid collections. Peripancreatic collections were described in terms of volume, location, number, heterogeneity, fluid attenuation, wall perceptibility, wall enhancement, presence of extraluminal gas, and vascular compromise.RESULTS: Fifty-four collections were identif ied at operation, of which 45 (83%) were identif ied on CECT. Of these, 25/26 (96%) had necrosis without pus, 16/19 (84%) had necrosis with pus, and 4/9 (44%) had fluid without necrosis. Among the study characteristics, fluid heterogeneity was seen in a greater proportion of collections in the group with necrosis and pus, compared to the other two groups (94% vs 48% and 25%, P = 0.002 and 0.003, respectively). Among the wall characteristics, irregularity was seen in a greater proportion of collections in the groups with necrosis with and without pus, when compared to the group with fluid without necrosis (88% and 71% vs 25%, P = 0.06 and P < 0.01, respectively). The combination of heterogeneity and presence of extraluminal gas had a specif icity and positive likelihood ratio of 92% and 5.9, respectively, in detecting pus. CONCLUSION: Most of the peripancreatic collections seen on CECT in patients with severe acute pancreatitis who require operative intervention contain necrotic tissue. CECT has a somewhat limited role in differentiating the different types of collections.
摘要RompecPC is a computerized program designed to create and assemble jigsaw puzzles. The program automatically records the solver’s responses as the number of pieces positioned correctly, the number of correct and incorrect movements, the number of times that she/he attempts to move a piece to the same place (perseverations), and the latency and place to which each piece is moved or attempted to be moved. These features facilitate the implementation and evaluation of puzzles while also reducing human error. Therefore, RompePC is a useful tool for the neuropsychological assessment of visuospatial skills in both clinical and experimental research.
基金Supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2017YFC1104600)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81770909)the Production&Education and Research Key Project of Guangdong Provincial Program(No.2011B090400499).
摘要●AIM:To develop a novel approach called the Autoacuity Tester,and to evaluate its validity,especially the sensitivity and specificity for detecting amblyopia.●METHODS:Children aged from 3 to 12 y(n=552)were enrolled in the study.The validity of the Autoacuity Tester was evaluated by comparing it to the Tumbling E Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study(ETDRS)acuity chart for school age children,and Lea Symbols and Teller acuity card(TAC)for preschool children.The repeatability was assessed by coefficient of repeatability(COR).The sensitivity and specificity for detecting amblyopia were calculated.●RESULTS:The mean difference(95%limits of agreement)between the Autoacuity Tester and the ETDRS tests were-0.03(-0.24,0.19)logMAR for the school age group.In preschool children,the mean difference was 0.04(-0.14,0.21)logMAR between the Autoacuity Tester and the TAC and 0.00(-0.17,0.18)logMAR between the Autoacuity Tester and the Lea Symbols.For the school age group,the COR was 0.20 logMAR for the Autoacuity Tester and 0.18 logMAR for the ETDRS.For the preschool group,the COR was 0.13 logMAR for the Autoacuity Tester and 0.21 logMAR for TAC.The Autoacuity Tester(88%)is more sensitive than TAC(72%)in detecting amblyopia(P=0.04),while had similar specificity(92%vs 90%,P=0.20).●CONCLUSION:The Autoacuity Tester provides a reliable alternative for assessing visual acuity,and offers advantage of higher testability and repeatability for preschool children.
基金Supported by 2022 Fujian Medical University Qihang Fund General Project Plan,No.2022QH1120。
摘要BACKGROUND Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP),a condition with rapid onset,critical condition and unsatisfactory prognosis,poses a certain threat to human health,warranting optimization of relevant treatment plans to improve treatment efficacy.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of computerized tomography-guided the-rapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)combined with somatostatin(SS)in the treatment of SAP.METHODS Forty-two SAP patients admitted to The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from June 2020 to June 2023 were selected.On the basis of routine treatment,20 patients received SS therapy(control group)and 22 patients were given CT-TPPCD plus SS intervention(research group).The efficacy,safety(pancreatic fistula,intra-abdominal hemorrhage,sepsis,and organ dysfunction syndrome),abdominal bloating and pain relief time,bowel recovery time,hospital stay,inflammatory indicators(C-reactive protein,interleukin-6,and pro-calcitonin),and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation(APACHE)II score of both groups were evaluated for comparison.RESULTS Compared with the control group,the research group had a markedly higher total effective rate,faster abdominal bloating and pain relief and bowel recovery,INTRODUCTION Pancreatitis,an inflammatory disease occurring in the pancreatic tissue,is classified as either acute or chronic and is associated with high morbidity and mortality,imposing a socioeconomic burden[1,2].The pathogenesis of this disease involves early protease activation,activation of nuclear factor kappa-B-related inflammatory reactions,and infiltration of immune cells[3].Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP)is a serious condition involving systemic injury and subsequent possible organ failure,accounting for 20%of all acute pancreatitis cases[4].SAP is also characterized by rapid onset,critical illness and unsatisfactory prognosis and is correlated with serious adverse events such as systemic inflammatory response syn-drome and acute lung injury,threatening the health of patients[5,6].Therefore,timely and effective therapeutic inter-ventions are of great significance for improving patient prognosis and ensuring therapeutic effects.Somatostatin(SS),a peptide hormone that can be secreted by endocrine cells and the central nervous system,is in-volved in the regulatory mechanism of glucagon and insulin synthesis in the pancreas[7].It has complex and pleiotropic effects on the gastrointestinal tract,which can inhibit the release of gastrointestinal hormones and negatively modulate the exocrine function of the stomach,pancreas and bile,while exerting a certain influence on the absorption of the di-gestive system[8,9].SS has shown certain clinical effectiveness when applied to SAP patients and can regulate the severity of SAP and immune inflammatory responses,and this regulation is related to its influence on leukocyte apoptosis and adhesion[10,11].Computerized tomography-guided therapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)is a surgical procedure to collect lesion fluid and pus samples from necrotic lesions and perform puncture and drainage by means of CT image examination and precise positioning[12].In the research of Liu et al[13],CT-TPPCD applied to pa-tients undergoing pancreatic surgery contributes to not only good curative effects but also a low surgical risk.Baudin et al[14]also reported that CT-TPPCD has a clinical success rate of 64.6%in patients with acute infectious necrotizing pan-creatitis,with nonfatal surgery-related complications found in only two cases,suggesting that this procedure is clinically effective and safe in the treatment of the disease.In light of the limited studies on the efficacy and safety of SS plus CT-TPPCD in SAP treatment,this study performed a relevant analysis to improve clinical outcomes in SAP patients.
基金Supported by Shanghai Pudong New Area Science and Technology Development and Livelihood Research Special Fund Support Project,No.PKJ2023-Y80Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Specialized Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center Project,No.PDZY-2022-05-01.
摘要BACKGROUND Patients with schizophrenia may have various disease manifestations,most of which gradually tend toward incurable chronic decline,leading to mental disability.The basic symptoms of the disease can impair social function,whereas long-term hospitalization produces hospitalization syndrome,causing serious damage to social function.AIM To investigate the effects of Computerized Cognitive Remediation Therapy(CCRT)on cognitive and social functioning in patients with chronic schizophrenia.METHODS A retrospective analysis of 120 patients with chronic schizophrenia in Shanghai Pudong New Area Mental Health Center was performed.They were divided into an intervention group(60 cases treated with CCRT combined with conventional medication)and a control group(60 cases treated with conventional medication).After treatment,effects on cognitive function and social roles were observed in both groups.The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale(PANSS)was used to assess the patients'psychiatric symptoms.The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test(WCST)was used to assess the patients'cognitive functioning,and the Social Functioning Scale for Psychiatric Inpatients(SSPI)was used to assess the social functioning of the inpatient psychiatric patients.RESULTS No significant differences were observed in the PANSS,WCST,and SSPI intergroup scores before treatment(P>0.05).After 2,4,and 6 wk of therapy,general psychopathological factors,positive symptoms,negative symptoms,and total PANSS scores of PANSS in the intervention group were lower than in the control group(P<0.05).After 2,4,and 6 wk of treatment,the number of false responses,number of persistent bugs,and total responses in the WCST were significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group(P<0.05),and the amount of completed classification was significantly higher than in the control group(P<0.05).After 2,4,and 6 wk of therapy,the SSPI scores were significantly greater than those of the controls(P<0.05).After 6 wk of treatment,the efficacy rates of the control and intervention groups were 81.67%and 91.67%,respectively.The curative effect in the intervention group was significantly higher than that in the control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION CCRT can significantly improve cognitive function and social abilities in patients with chronic schizophrenia.
摘要Since the process of the surgery navigation is an operation-sensitive process, it is important to record and archive the whole process. In this paper, some key technologies are introduced to accomplish process archive of computerized surgery navigation based on the picture archiving and communication system(PACS). Firstly, the images and track data are acquired by the screen captured tool and the navigation software. Secondly, these image and data files are converted to the digital imaging and communications in medicine(DICOM) files supported by PACS and transferred into the database in PACS. The process of surgery navigation is recorded and archived. Finally, the original data of process archive is acquired from PACS, and this data is used to play back and restore the process of surgery navigation.
摘要We read with great interest the article by Vege et al published in issue 34 of World J Gastroenterol 2010.The article evaluates the ability of contrast-enhanced computerized tomography(CECT)to characterize the nature of peripancreatic collections found at surgery.The results of their study indicate that most of the peripancreatic collections seen on CECT in patients with severe acute pancreatitis who require operative intervention contain necrotic tissue and CECT has a limited role in differentiating various types of collections.However,there are some points that need to be addressed,including data about the stage of acute pancreatitis in which CECT was done and the time span between CECT examination and surgery.
摘要For positioning a moving target, a maximum intensity projection (MIP) or average intensity projection (AIP) image derived from 4DCT is often used as the reference image which is matched to free breathing cone-beam CT (FBCBCT) before treatment. This method can be highly accurate if the respiratory motion of the patient is stable. However, a patient’s breathing pattern is often irregular. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of irregular respiration on positioning accuracy for a moving target aligned with FBCBCT. Nine patients’ respiratory motion curves were selected to drive a Quasar motion phantom with one embedded cubic and two spherical targets. A 4DCT of the phantom was acquired on a CT scanner (Philips Brilliance 16) equipped with a Varian RPM system. The phase binned 4DCT images and the corresponding MIP and AIP images were transferred into Eclipse for analysis. FBCBCTs of the phantom driven by the same respiratory curves were also acquired on a Varian TrueBeam and fused such that both CBCT and MIP/AIP images share the same target zero positions. The sphere and cube volumes and centroid differences (alignment error) determined by MIP, AIP and FBCBCT images were calculated, respectively. Compared to the volume determined by MIP, the volumes of the cube, large sphere, and small sphere in AIP and FBCBCT images were smaller. The alignment errors for the cube, large sphere and small sphere with center to center matches between MIP and FBCBCT were 2.5 ± 1.8 mm, 2.4 ± 2.1 mm, and 3.8 ± 2.8 mm, and the alignment errors between AIP and FBCBCT were 0.5 ± 1.1 mm, 0.3 ± 0.8 mm, and 1.8 ± 2.0 mm, respectively. AIP images appear to be superior reference images to MIP images. However, irregular respiratory pattern could compromise the positioning accuracy, especially for smaller targets.
基金the Grant Agency of the Czech Republic under contract No.13-03403S.
摘要A computerized method for determining rock joint coefficients is presented.Two relative similarity indicators are introduced to classify surface morphology of rock joints.The classification enables to compare investigated and database rock joints.Such a comparison aims at finding the couple of surfaces that are distinguished by the highest dynamical conformity.The first absolute indicator results from the Fourier matrix and evaluates wavy shapes of surfaces.The second absolute indicator quantifies the heights of surface reliefs and is defined as the root mean square height of the surface outline.Numerical reliability of these indicators is tested within the surface analysis of a series of limestone specimens.Besides the computerized assessment,25 people have performed visual assessment of these limestone specimens.The results of visual assessments have been statistically processed and compared to the results received from the computerized procedure.The newly introduced absolute indicators have proved to be prospective numerical tools for evaluating joint rock coefficients.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.61073986)
摘要Computer-aided Design (CAD), video games and other computer graphic related technology evolves substantial processing to geometric elements. A novel geometric computing method is proposed with the integration of descriptive geometry, math and computer algorithm. Firstly, geometric elements in general position are transformed to a special position in new coordinate system. Then a 3D problem is projected to new coordinate planes. Finally, according to 2D/3D correspondence principle in descriptive geometry, the solution is constructed computerized drawing process with ruler and compasses. In order to make this method a regular operation, a two-level pattern is established. Basic Layer is a set algebraic packaged function including about ten Primary Geometric Functions (PGF) and one projection transformation. In Application Layer, a proper coordinate is established and a sequence of PGFs is sought for to get the final results. Examples illustrate the advantages of our method on dimension reduction, regulatory and visual computing and robustness.
基金The project supported by Laboratory of Rare-Earth Chemistry and Physics,Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry,Academia Sinica
摘要The structure of molten DyF_3-LiF system has been simulated by Monte Carlo method.The radial distribution functions(RDFs)and the local structure have been obtained.It is concluded that F^- ions distribute closely around Dy3+ ions.There exist some fissures and holes between F^- ions and Li^+ ions. There are mainly two kinds of ionic types:the complex ions like DyF_n3-n clusters with the central Dy3+ ions (the main ionic clusters are octahedral complex ions like DyF_63-)and the“free”Li^+ ions.Moreover,some complex ions like DyF_n3-n clusters are connected to one another by flourine-bridge,forming more compli- cated ionic clusters like Dy_m3m-n F_n.By calculating the potential energies of all types of ions,it is concluded that Li^+ ions have the highest potential energy in the molten system,which are current-carrying ions in the electrolytic conductance.
基金funded by the Deanship of Scientific Research at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University through the Fast-track Research Funding Program.
摘要Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency(LSCD)is an eye disease that can cause corneal opacity and vascularization.In its advanced stage it can lead to a degree of visual impairment.It involves the changing in the semispherical shape of the cornea to a drooping shape to downwards direction.LSCD is hard to be diagnosed at early stages.The color and texture of the cornea surface can provide significant information about the cornea affected by LSCD.Parameters such as shape and texture are very crucial to differentiate normal from LSCD cornea.Although several medical approaches exist,most of them requires complicated procedure and medical devices.Therefore,in this paper,we pursued the development of a LSCD detection technique(LDT)utilizing image processing methods.Early diagnosis of LSCD is very crucial for physicians to arrange for effective treatment.In the proposed technique,we developed a method for LSCD detection utilizing frontal eye images.A dataset of 280 eye images of frontal and lateral LSCD and normal patients were used in this research.First,the cornea region of both frontal and lateral images is segmented,and the geometric features are extracted through the automated active contour model and the spline curve.While the texture features are extracted using the feature selection algorithm.The experimental results exhibited that the combined features of the geometric and texture will exhibit accuracy of 95.95%,sensitivity of 97.91% and specificity of 94.05% with the random forest classifier of n=40.As a result,this research developed a Limbal stem cell deficiency detection system utilizing features’fusion using image processing techniques for frontal and lateral digital images of the eyes.
摘要Despite lung cancer(LC) screening by low-dose computerized tomography(LDCT) gaining many proponents worldwide, for many years it was not recognized as a life-prolonging and cost-effective procedure, until recently. Prospective observational studies had not been able to prove that this screening prolongs survival, but they helped to specify the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Long-awaited results of a prospective, randomized trial finally provided the evidence that LC screening with LDCT can prolong survival of the screened population. Several costeffectiveness analyses were performed to justify mass introduction of this screening. Results of these analyses are equivocal, although conclusions highly depend upon inclusion and exclusion criteria, methods of analysis and prices of medical procedures which differ between countries as well as the incidence of other pulmonary nodules, especially tuberculosis. Therefore, costeffectiveness analysis should be performed separately for every country. Cost-effectiveness depends especially upon the rate of false-positive results and the rate of unnecessary diagnostic, screening and treatment procedures. To ensure high cost-effectiveness, LC screening should be performed in accordance with screening protocol, in dedicated screening centers equipped with nodule volume change analysis, or as a prospective non-randomized trial, to ensure compliance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. To ensure high cost-effectiveness of LC screening, future research should concentrate on determination of highrisk groups and further specifying the inclusion and exclusion criteria.