5-point Method Research Articles

Characterisation of metamaterials for underwater acoustics using the 5-point method

The characterization of metamaterials by measurement is essential to reveal the true efficiency of a material's reflection and transmission in water. The current 3-point method developed by L. Roux et al, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 147, 2 (2020) 1104-1112 provides important advantages, such as consideration of the pressure field diffracted by the edges of the panel and late reflections, due respectively to the finite size of the panel and the water tank. However, this method only considers specularly reflected and transmitted waves. For metamaterial panels based on periodic arrays of macro-inclusions there exists a diffraction cut-off frequency, above which several propagating waves are generated in water, with frequency-dependent propagation directions, in both the reflected and transmitted fields. Due to this multiplication of waves, the 3-point method is no longer adequate. The 5-point method consider these components, in addition to those considered by the 3-point method allowing measurement beyond the material's first cut-off frequency by using 5 hydrophone position instead of three. Tests were carried out on a panel with an adaptable grating periodicity to test the robustness of the 5 points method. Results are compared with the 3-point method when both are valid and numerical results obtained by FEM.

Development of 3D-printed universal adapter in enhancing retinal imaging accessibility

BackgroundThe revolutionary technology of smartphone-based retinal imaging has been consistently improving over the years. Smartphone-based retinal image acquisition devices are designed to be portable, easy to use, and cost-efficient, which enables eye care to be more widely accessible especially in geographically remote areas. This enables early disease detection for those who are in low- and middle- income population or just in general has very limited access to eye care. This study investigates the limitation of smartphone compatibility of existing smartphone-based retinal image acquisition devices. Additionally, this study aims to propose a universal adapter design that is usable with an existing smartphone-based retinal image acquisition device known as the PanOptic ophthalmoscope. This study also aims to simulate the reliability, validity, and performance overall of the developed prototype.MethodsA literature review has been conducted that identifies the limitation of smartphone compatibility among existing smartphone-based retinal image acquisition devices. Designing and modeling of proposed adapter were performed using the software AutoCAD 3D. For the proposed performance evaluation, finite element analysis (FEA) in the software Autodesk Inventor and 5-point scale method were demonstrated.ResultsPublished studies demonstrate that most of the existing smartphone-based retinal imaging devices have compatibility limited to specific older smartphone models. This highlights the benefit of a universal adapter in broadening the usability of existing smartphone-based retinal image acquisition devices. A functional universal adapter design has been developed that demonstrates its compatibility with a variety of smartphones regardless of the smartphone dimension or the position of the smartphone’s camera lens. The proposed performance evaluation method generates an efficient stress analysis of the proposed adapter design. The end-user survey results show a positive overall performance of the developed universal adapter. However, a significant difference between the expert's views on the developed adapter and the quality of images is observed.ConclusionThe compatibility of existing smartphone-based retinal imaging devices is still mostly limited to specific smartphone models. Besides this, the concept of a universal and suitable adapter for retinal imaging using the PanOptic ophthalmoscope was presented and validated in this paper. This work provides a platform for future development of smartphone-based ophthalmoscope that is universal.

Effect of Breath Training on Image Quality of Chest Magnetic Resonance Free-breathing Sequence.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays a role in demonstrating substantial utility in lung lesion imaging, detection, diagnosis, and evaluation. Previous studies have found that free-breathing star VIBE sequences not only have high image quality but also have a high ability to detect and display nodules. However, in our routine clinical practice, we have encountered suboptimal image quality in the free-breathing sequences of certain patients. This study aims to assess the impact of breath training on the quality of chest magnetic resonance imaging obtained during free-breathing sequences. A total of 68 patients with lung lesions, such as nodules or masses detected via Computed Tomography (CT) examination, were prospectively gathered. They were then randomly divided into two groups: an observation group and a control group. Standard preparation was performed for all patients in both groups before the examination. The observation group underwent 30 minutes of breath training prior to the MRI examination additionally, followed by the acquisition of MRI free-breathing sequence images. The signal intensity (SI) and standard deviation (SD) of the lesion and adjacent normal lung tissue were measured, and the image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast signal-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the lesion were calculated for objective image quality evaluation. The subjective image quality of the two groups of images was also evaluated using a 5-point method. MRI examinations were completed in both groups. Significantly better subjective image quality (edge and internal structure clarity, vascular clarity, breathing and cardiac artifacts, and overall image quality) was achieved in the observation group compared to the control group (P<0.05). In addition, higher SNR and CNR values for disease lesions were observed in the observation group compared to the control group (t=4.35, P<0.05; t=5.35, P<0.05). It is concluded that the image quality of free-breathing sequences MRI can be improved through breath training before examination.

Effects of 4-Hydroxybenzaldehydeon on Interactions With Neurovascular Unit-Related Cells

4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (4-HBd) is one of the active compounds with neuroprotective effects, which has been confirmed to have anti cerebral ischemical reperfusion injury (CIRI) effect in previous study. In this study, we explored the protective effect of 4-HBd on the neurovascular unit (NVU) after CIRI and its mechanism through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Establish rat of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reproduction (MCAO/R) model, transwell chamber was used to establish an in vitro primary cell co-culture model to simulate NVU, causing oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) injury, simulating the pathological of CIRI in vivo. Longa 5-point method was used to evaluate the neurological function of the rats, and transmission electron microscope was used to observe the ultrastructural changes of NVU. Western Blot was used to detect the expression of neuronal protein in rat brain. The mRNA expressions of ang-1/tie-2 signaling pathway and bdnf/trkb signaling pathway were detected by qPCR. In vivo results showed that 4-HBd reduced neurological function scores and improved the ultrastructure of NVU after MCAO/R rats. 4-HBd could up-regulate the expression of microtubule associated protein-2 (Map-2), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and occludin. In vitro results showed that 4-HBd could activate ang-1/tie-2 signaling pathway, increased occludin mRNA expression and protect the blood brain barrier (BBB). 4-HBd can activate bdnf/trkb signaling pathway, up-regulate map-2 mRNA expression, and promote neuronal repair. In vitro and in vivo results indicated 4-HBd can affect the ang-1/tie-2 and bdnf/trkb signaling pathways, and BBB damage is alleviated and NVU homeostasis is maintained to improve CIRI.

ANALYSIS OF THE FACTORS AFFECTING THE SELECTION OF THE SITE-LOCATION FOR HEALTH FREE ZONE IN TURKIYE

Purpose- The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyze the factors affecting the location selection for Health Free Zone in Turkey if established. Since 1980’s various transformations are experienced in health sector worldwide with the effects of global neo-liberal policies. New products, new methods, and new markets are emerged. Health tourism and Health Free Zones (SASEB) are at the forefront of these developments. First, the health tourism entered the world agenda in 1990s, and since the 2000s, Health Free Zones have followed this trend. The Health Free Zone project attracts the attention of many countries that want to get a big share from the global health tourism market, to attract foreign direct investments (FDI), to benefit from technology transfer, to increase health quality and standards, to exchange information and experience, and to attract specialist physicians and health personnel. United Arab Emirates was the first country in the world to realize this project in 2002, and in the following years, China, South Korea, Indonesia and Nigeria started the implementation steps, and countries such as Turkey and India could not continue despite their rapid start. Although the Health Free Zone project, which came to the fore in Turkey in 2010, aroused great excitement in the whole country, the project could not be realized. With the change of the minister and senior bureaucrats of the period, the interest of the government in SASEB project decreased. Although attempts have been made by the private sector in various provinces, no results have been achieved until today. Methodology- In this study, an answer has been sought to the question of what are the factors that affect the selection of the location for SASEB. The study was conducted with a sample group consisting of those working in the health sector or related fields in Turkey. A total of 518 persons have participated in the study, in which a 5-point Likert scale and quantitative method was used. Parametric analyses were carried out with the data obtained from the remaining 491 individuals, after subtracting 27 units from the data, which hindered the normal distribution of the data. Frequency charts of demographic data belonging to the sample group were drawn by using SPSS v.23, and the obtained data were also subjected to t-test and ANOVA analysis. Findings- The analysis reveals that the majority of the sample group confirmed that Istanbul (89,6%), Izmir (88,4%), Antalya (87,3%) and Ankara (83,9%) were the most appropriate provinces for the SASEB project. The strategic situation of the location has a significant impact on the decision processes (92,3%), followed by other factors such as the availability of transportation facilities (91,7%) and the availability of airport facilty in the region (90,1%). Conclusion- Based upon the analyisis, it has been revealed that Istanbul is the most appropriate city for SASEB project, due to its sea, airport, road accessibility and other infrastructure possibilities, followed by İzmir. Keywords: Health free zone, sağlık serbest bölgesi, medical tourism, SASEB, health tourism JEL Codes: I11, N22, M21

Variations of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi following succession stages in a tropical lowland rainforest ecosystem of South China

IntroductionThe grasslands in the Nature Reserve of Ganshenling, in the south of Hainan Island, were first formed after deforestation disturbance before a natural restoration of shrubs and secondary forests. However, the stages of grassland and shrubs in some parts of Ganshenling regions could not be naturally restored to secondary forests. In addition, the forest form of the secondary forest after 40 years (40a) of succession was similar to that of the secondary forest of 60 years (60a). However, it was not known whether the microorganisms recovered to the level of the secondary forest of 60a. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are plant root symbionts that can improve the nitrogen and phosphorus absorption of plants and play a key role in secondary forest succession. An understanding of the essential role of soil AMF in secondary forest succession of tropical rainforest in Ganshenling regions is still limited.MethodsTherefore, the soil of 0–10 cm was collected with the help of a 5-point sampling method in grassland, shrubs, and second tropical lowland rainforest of 40a and 60a. We studied community changes in AMF with the succession and explored the impacts of soil physicochemical properties on soil AMF.ResultsOur findings were as follows: (1) Different successional stages showed divergent effects on soil AMF communities. (2) After 40a recovery, the alpha-diversity indices of AMF recovered to the level of secondary forest of 60a, but the similarity of soil AMF communities only recovered to 25.3%. (3) Species richness of common species, rare species, and all the species of AMF showed a significantly positive correlation with soil nitrogen. (4) OTU10; OTU6, OTU9, and OTU141; OTU3 and OTU38; and OTU2, OTU15, OTU23, and OTU197 were significantly unique AMF for grasslands, shrubs, and secondary forests of 40a and 60a, respectively. (5) The phylogenetic tree and the heatmap of AMF showed that the OTUs in grasslands and shrubs were in contrast to the OTUs in secondary forests of 40a and 60a.DiscussionWe concluded that the succession of a secondary forest after deforestation disturbance was probably limited by its AMF community.

Application of three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance (MR) Multi-Echo iN Steady-state Acquisition sequences in preoperative evaluation of lumbar disc herniation: a prospective study.

Conventional spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cannot provide accurate diagnosis and surgical planning; thin-layer scanning can enhance the diagnostic efficacy. This study aimed to investigate the value of 3-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance (MR) in preoperative evaluation of lumbar disc herniation, with a focus on the application of Multi-Echo iN Steady-state Acquisition (MENSA) sequence. A total of 51 patients who underwent lumbar disc herniation surgery in West China Hospital of Sichuan University from June 2021 to December 2021 were prospectively enrolled. A cross-sectional study was conducted on those patients. The Cube group was scanned using 3D-FSE-Cube sequence, the Cube stir group was scanned using 3D-FSE-Cube Short Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR) sequence, and the MENSA group was scanned using MENSA sequence. Signal and noise values of nerve, herniated disc, ligamentum flavum (LF), and soft tissue were measured on the 3 groups. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated. Objective scores were calculated by analysis of variance (ANOVA). Image quality was scored by a 5-point method. Friedman test was used to compare subjective scores, and Kappa test was used to evaluate the consistency of 2 readers' scores. The nerve root SNRs in the MENSA and Cube stir groups were higher than that in the Cube group (P<0.01), but there was no substantial statistical difference between the 2 groups. The herniated disc and LF SNRs of the MENSA group were greater than those of the Cube stir and Cube groups (P<0.01). Soft tissue SNR was greater in the MENSA group compared with the Cube stir group (P<0.01), which was greater than the SNR in the Cube group (P<0.01). The nerve root CNR of the Cube group (102.88±73.19) was greater than that of the MENSA group (55.98±25.26, P<0.01), which was higher than the CNR in the Cube Stir group (29.42±16.22, P<0.01). The herniated disc CNR was higher in the MENSA and Cube groups than that in the Cube Stir group. The CNR of LF was greater in the MENSA group (37.71±16.87) compared to the Cube group (29.76±25.73, P=0.03), which was greater than that in the Cube stir group (10.50±7.75, P<0.01). Among the subjective ratings of 2 reviewers, MENSA sequence scored highest in the qualitative measures of image quality. In the consistency test, the Kappa values of 2 readers for 3 groups of images were all greater than 0.73, indicating good consistency. The differences of subjective scores among all groups were statistically significant (P<0.05). Overall, it was indicated that the consistency test results of the 2 readers were statistically significant and consistent. The MENSA group had the highest accuracy in diagnosing nerve compression. In addition, MENSA sequence ranked highest among the 3 sequences with 94.1% diagnostic accuracy. The preoperative 3D MRI MENSA sequence can clearly depict the nerve roots and offer desirable contrast between the nerve roots, LF, bone, and intervertebral discs (IVDs). Patients with lumbar degeneration can effectively benefit from MENSA sequence since it provides useful imaging information to help understand disc herniation and compression of adjacent tissues when developing preoperative surgical strategies.

A randomized control study to assess the efficacy of the sphenopalatine ganglion block in patients with post dural puncture headache.

Post dural puncture headache (PDPH) delays discharge from hospital. We studied the efficacy of sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block, a novel technique in management of PDPH using 0.25% Ropivacaine. Forty patients presenting with PDPH after urological procedures under spinal anaesthesia were randomized into two groups: Group C and Group S. Group C received conservative treatment with bed rest, adequate hydration and caffeine 200 mg 6th hourly. Group S patients received SPG block (packing bilateral nostril for 10 minutes with 0.25% Ropivacaine). Inj Paracetamol 1 g IV was given as primary analgesic. Intravenous Diclofenac 75 mg was administered as rescue analgesic. Patients were monitored for 72 hours. Total analgesic requirement, time to attain adequate pain relief, headache pain score, patient satisfactory score were compared between the two groups. We compared the PDPH severity score for headache using 5-point scale method and patient satisfaction score using Likert-type scale. Demographic data, onset of PDPH, needle size, intervention time were statistically insignificant. Total paracetamol consumption was significantly reduced in SPG group. Headache pain score was significantly low in Group S up to 54 hours. Patient satisfaction score was statistically better in Group S. Mean block onset time was 12 minutes. One patient in Group C required Epidural blood patch. SPG block is an effective alternative in managing patients with PDPH. The need for epidural blood patch is greatly reduced using SPG block. Procedural safety, immediate and sustained pain relief make it an evolving treatment modality for PDPH.

Sensory quality of selected natural yoghurts available on the Polish market

Introduction: The fermented milk drinks include: yogurt, kefir, fermented milk, acidophilic milk, koumiss and new generation dairy products. The high nutrient content of yogurt is related to the composition of the milk it is made of. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the sensory quality of selected natural yoghurts available on the Polish market.Material and methods: The research material consisted of 8 natural yoghurts available on the Polish market. Natural yoghurts were purchased in supermarkets in the Silesian Voivodeship. The intensity of the examined features (color, taste, smell, consistency, general appearance) was assessed using a proprietary card for evaluation on a five-point scale (5 - very good quality, 1 - disqualifying quality). Results: The results of the sensory evaluation using the 5-point method: The highest mean was obtained by the yoghurt code: 125 - 4.34 (± 0.47) and the worst by the respondents was the yogurt with the code: 596 - 3.54 (± 0.77). The results of the sensory evaluation carried out by the scheduling method: the highest scores were obtained for natural yoghurts with the codes 133 and 189.Conclusions: The evaluation of the sensory quality of selected natural yoghurts carried out using the five-point method showed that the highest overall score was obtained by yogurt containing: milk, powdered milk, milk proteins, calcium, live cultures of yoghurt fermentation bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5® i Bifidobacterium BB-12®.The evaluation carried out by the ranking method showed that yoghurts with the following compositions were best evaluated by the respondents: milk, milk proteins, live yoghurt bacteria cultures and milk, live bacteria cultures, selected lactic acid strains of Bifidobacterium BB-12®, 0% fat.The lowest score of respondents in the sensory evaluation with the use of both methods was obtained by natural yoghurt with the following composition: milk, live bacteria cultures.

Power-Force-Velocity Profiling as a Function of Used Loads and Task Experience.

To evaluate cohort-specific reliability and concurrent validity of 3 different vertical power-force-velocity (P-F-v) profiles to determine force, velocity, maximal power, and the slope of the force-velocity relationship using squat jumps. Fifteen male sport students and 15 elite ski jumping athletes (male = 11; female = 4) conducted 2 block-randomized test-retest sessions with 5-point-method or 2-point-method loading conditions. A third P-F-v profile was established by excluding the data point most declining the coefficient of determination (r2) of the 5-point method. Acceptable absolute and relative reliability were found across methods in ski jumping athletes (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] ≥ .79, coefficient of variation [CV] ≤ 6.2%). However, force values were significantly lower in the retest (≤2.1%, d ≤ 0.75). In contrast, no systematic differences (P ≥ .461), but unacceptable absolute and relative reliability, were found in sport students (ICC ≥ .63, CV ≤ 14.8%). The P-F-v parameters of the different collecting and evaluating approaches yielded high to excellent correlations (ski jumping athletes: r ≥ .64; sport students: r ≥ .61), but maximal power (≤4.6%) and velocity (<6.2%,) values of sport students revealed significant differences. The similarity of P-F-v testing and basic ski jumping training daily exercises seems to be more significant to obtain reliable force-velocity parameters than the methodological approach. Accordingly, P-F-v profiles seem to be reliable with the proposed methods only in highly task-experienced athletes but not in less task-experienced cohorts like sport students.

The applicability of the digit wrinkle scan to quantify sympathetic nerve function

ObjectiveStimulated skin wrinkling test (SSW) has been launched as a non-invasive diagnostic procedure. However, no normative age dependent values have been reported that can be applied in clinical practice. The objectives of the study were to (1) collect age-dependent normative values according to the 5-point scale assessment for the SSW, to (2) determine reliability scores for the obtained norm values, and to (3) introduce a new digital method for SSW assessment, the Digit Wrinkle Scan© (DWS©) for detection of wrinkles in a more quantitative manner. MethodsFirstly, 82 healthy participants were included, divided in 5 age groups. The participants underwent SSW using lidocaine and prilocaine topical cream. Secondly, 35 healthy participants were included to test whether the DWS© could be a novel manner to assess the grade of wrinkling quantitatively. We determined the inter-observer reliability of both methods. Also, the intra-observer reliability was calculated for the DWS©. ResultsWe found a decrease in normative values over age. The inter-observer reliability of assessment by the 5-point scale method was moderate after SSW (Cohen’s k: 0.53). Results of the DWS© indicate that total wrinkle length per mm2 showed moderate to good agreement for the 4th and 5th digits after SSW, and a low agreement for the other digits. ConclusionsAge-dependent normative values were obtained according to the 5-point scale, but its clinical application is doubtful since we found a moderate inter-observer reliability. We introduced the DWS© as a possible new method in order to quantify the grade of wrinkling. SignificanceWe found unsatisfactory reliability scores, which hampers its usefulness for clinical practice.

Medical expert and machine learning analysis of lumbar disc herniation based on magnetic resonance imaging

ObjectiveObservation and statistical analysis was used to evaluate the ability of lumbar disc magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to obtain the smallest size of Al2O3 spots (calcified foci) and lumbar disc fiber signals. MethodsFirst, we perform image acquisition of the MRI, perform the statistical analysis using five different sizes of Al2O3 spots and lumbar disc fibers on the imaging plate (IP), use a molybdenum target MRI machine 26 kV, adjust the milliampere amount, select the appropriate image processing parameters, and obtain the experimental image of the density value (D=0.70±0.05), the 5-point judgment method is used to obtain the total score of 10 lines of signals composed of 5 signals and noise, and a group is computed using the statistical analysis that is built from human observation and machine prediction (based on machine learning), which are then compared. In particular, we implemented a convolutional neural network algorithm to evaluate the medical condition against human observers, so as to study the structure of the lumbar intervertebral disc. We compute the true positive probability P(S/s) and false positive probability P(S/n) values, draw ROC curve, and compute the judgment probability value of each signal Pdet. We then use SPSS 10.0 statistical single factor analysis of variance software to process the data, and obtain the smallest calcified focus and lumbar disc mass focus. ResultsUsing probability statistical methods to obtain the data of the ROC curve and the average value of the judgment probability Pdet, among 5 different sizes Al2O3 spots (calcifications), 0.20mm Pdet= 0.6250minimum, 0.55mm Pdet = 0.9000 the largest, but the difference between 0.20mm and 0.25mm Pdet is not statistically significant, and the difference is statistically significant; among the five types of lumbar disc fibers (tumor foci) of different sizes, 0.45mm Pdet= 0.5313minimum, 1.00mm Pdet =0.8813 is the largest, while the difference between 0.45mm and 0.60mm is not statistically significant, and the difference between 0.45mm and other is statistically significant. We note that the human observation and machine learning prediction is not significantly different (P<0.05). ConclusionsThe computation of the ROC curve and that of the probability of judgment using the statistical analysis based on a deep learning platform is simple and fast, and approximates that of human observation. It is suitable for the evaluation of image quality control carried out by daily clinical work.

Development of entrustable professional activities for residents rotating nephrology department in a Japanese university hospital: a Delphi study

ObjectivesTraining strategies regarding entrustable professional activities (EPAs) vary from country to country; one such strategy is for residents. However, there are no reports of EPAs developed for residents who rotate...

Association between Changes in the Systolic Blood Pressure from Evening to the Next Morning and Night Glucose Variability in Heart Disease Patients

Objectve To assess the impact of glycemic variability on blood pressure in hospitalized patients with cardiac disease. Methods In 40 patients with cardiovascular disease, the glucose levels were monitored by flash continuous glucose monitoring (FGM; Free-Style Libre™ or Free-Style Libre Pro; Abbott, Witney, UK) and self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) for 14 days. Blood pressure measurements were performed twice daily (morning and evening) at the same time as the glucose level measurement using SMBG. Results The detection rate of hypoglycemia using the FGM method was significantly higher than that with the 5-point SMBG method (77.5% vs. 5.0%, p＜0.001). Changes in the systolic blood pressure from evening to the next morning [morning - evening (ME) difference] were significantly correlated with night glucose variability (r=0.63, P＜0.001). A multiple regression analysis showed that night glucose variability using FGM was more closely correlated with the ME difference [r=0.62 (95% confidence interval, 0.019-0.051); p＜0.001] than with the age, body mass index, or smoking history. Night glucose variability was also more closely associated with the ME difference in patients with unstable angina pectoris (UAP) than in those with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or heart failure (HF) (r=0.83, p=0.058). Conclusion Night glucose variability is associated with the ME blood pressure difference, and FGM is more accurate than the 5-point SMBG approach for detecting such variability.

A Study on the Authenticity of Preoperative Pulmonary Bronchial Angiography by DeepInsight Software

背景与目的精准肺段切除术已成为肺结节及早期肺癌外科治疗的首要选择，而其手术重点及难点则在于对病灶的精准定位与切除。DeepInsight为我中心与东软公司共同研发的精准肺部手术辅助软件，可术前明确肺部精确解剖，定位肺部病灶位置，此次研究即为验证DeepInsight肺部支气管血管成像辅助手术的真实性及可靠性。方法本研究共纳入了2016年8月1日-2019年12月31日江苏省人民医院胸外科收治的1, 020例预行手术治疗患者，所有入组患者肺部结节直径 < 2.0 cm，术前均行肺结节计算机断层血管造影（computed tomographic angiography, CTA）检查，使用DeepInsight软件术前进行术侧肺部支气管血管成像，识别受累肺段、肺动脉及肺静脉，2位胸外科医师采用5分法独立评估受累肺血管的可视性情况，χ2检验评估观察者间的一致性。此外，术侧肺部血管虚拟成像及真实解剖对比，由2名胸外科主任医师最终决定受累肺血管情况。结果1, 020例患者术前运用DeepInsight软件术侧肺部虚拟成像血管与术中受累血管的数量及空间解剖关系之间的差异无明显统计学意义，观察者间的一致性均相当满意。结论Dee术中进行pInsight软件肺部支气管血管虚拟成像可精准具化肺部真实血管情况，辅助肺段切除术的完成。

Soil Salinity Mapping Using Machine Learning Algorithms with the Sentinel-2 MSI in Arid Areas, China

Accurate monitoring of soil salinization plays a key role in the ecological security and sustainable agricultural development of arid regions. As a branch of artificial intelligence, machine learning acquires new knowledge through self-learning and continuously improves its own performance. The purpose of this study is to combine Sentinel-2 Multispectral Imager (MSI) data and MSI-derived covariates with measured soil salinity data and to apply three machine learning algorithms in modeling to estimate and map the soil salinity in the study sample area. According to the convenient transportation conditions, the study area and sampling quadrat were set up, and the 5-point method was used to collect the soil mixed samples, and 160 soil mixed samples were collected. Kennard–Stone (K–S) algorithm was used for sample classification, 70% for modeling and 30% for verification. The machine learning algorithm uses Support Vector Machines (SVM), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), and Random Forest (RF). The results showed that (1) the average reflectance of each band of the MSI data ranged from 0.21–0.28. According to the spectral characteristics corresponding to different soil electrical conductivity (EC) levels (1.07–79.6 dS m−1), the spectral reflectance of salinized soil in the MSI data ranged from 0.09–0.35. (2) The correlation coefficient between the MSI data and MSI-derived covariates and soil EC was moderate, and the correlation between certain MSI data sets and soil EC was not significant. (3) The SVM soil EC estimation model established with the MSI data set attained a higher performance and accuracy (R2 = 0.88, root mean square error (RMSE) = 4.89 dS m−1, and ratio of the performance to the interquartile range (RPIQ) = 1.96, standard error of the laboratory measurements to the standard error of the predictions (SEL/SEP) = 1.11) than those attained with the soil EC estimation models established with the RF and ANN models. (4) We applied the SVM soil EC estimation model to map the soil salinity in the study area, which showed that the farmland with higher altitudes discharged a large amount of salt to the surroundings due to long-term irrigation, and the secondary salinization of the farmland also caused a large amount of salt accumulation. This research provides a scientific basis for the simulation of soil salinization scenarios in arid areas in the future.

Application of CareDose 4D combined with Karl 3D technology in the low dose computed tomography for the follow-up of COVID-19

BackgroundCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly infectious disease caused by the new coronavirus. Previous studies have shown that the chest CT examination plays an important role in the diagnosis and monitoring of COVID-19. However, some patients with COVID-19 had low white blood cell counts and reduced lymphocyte ratios. Multiple CT examinations may cause radiation damages as well as increase the apoptosis of peripheral blood lymphocytes. A new low-dose CT method should be developed because the regular CT may aggravate the disease.MethodSixty cases were randomly divided into the study group (n = 30) and control group (n = 30). The lung window was reconstructed by Karl 3D iterative technique in the study group. The image quality was subjectively evaluated by two senior chest group diagnostic physicians using a 5-point double-blind method. The value of CT measurement and its standard deviation (SD) was used as an objective evaluation criteria. The volume of CT dose index (CTDIvol), dose length product (DLP) and effective dose (ED) from the two groups were compared and analyzed statistically.ResultThere was no significant difference in the occurrence rates of ground glass opacities, consolidation, crazy-paving pattern, fiber cable shadow and axial interstitial thickening between the study group and control group (p > 0.05). In addition, no significant difference was found for the subjective score of overall image quality and image noise level (SD) between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, significant differences was found in CTDIvol, DLP, and ED between the study group and the control group (p < 0.05). The effective dose of the study group was reduced by 76% compared to the control group.ConclusionCareDose 4D low-dose scanning combined with Karl 3D iterative reconstruction technology can not only greatly reduce the radiation dose, but also provide images that meet the diagnostic criteria of COVID-19, which can be used as a routine method for the follow-up of COVID-19 patients.

Effects of Mozafati, Piaroum, Zahedi date extracts and their combination on the chemical, microbial and sensory properties of farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fillets during refrigeration (4˚C)

Rainbow trout fillet is susceptible to microbial and oxidative spoilage. Therefore, it is essential to use preservatives to extend its shelf life. Date extract has significant antibacterial and antioxidant properties. This research was conducted to study the effect of aqueous date extracts on chemical, microbial and sensory properties of farmed rainbow trout during refrigeration. Total phenolic and flavonoid content were determined through Folin-Ciocalteu and colorimetric method. The first step of study was performed for determination the antimicrobial activity of date extracts against the inherent flora of fish fillet, lactic acid bacteria, Pseudomonas and Enterobacteriaceae by disc diffusion method. In parallel with antimicrobial tests, sensory evaluation was also performed for choosing the best concentration of extracts in order to applying on fish fillets. In the second step of study, fish fillet samples were immersed in date extracts (3% w/v for 5 minute), packaged in zip–bags and stored at 4 oC over a period of 17 days. The extract-free fillet was used as control. The samples were analyzed for microbiological (mesophilic, lactic acid bacteria, Pseudomonas and Enterobacteriaceae counts) and chemical (PV, TBARS and TVB-N) parameters. The 5-point hedonic method was carried out for sensory evaluation by 30 trained panelists. Analyses were conducted at 2 h after preparation and 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17 days of storage. Phenolic and flavonoids contents showed no significant differences between date extracts (p>0.05). Total bacterial counts, Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas, TBARS, PV and TVB-N showed no significant difference in test samples (p>0.05). These parameters were within an acceptable range up to 15 days for test samples while the control samples had a shelf life of 5 days. Samples preserved by Piaroum extract had the longest shelf life while samples preserved by the combination of extracts had the shortest. According to the results, the Piaroum, Zahedi, Mozafati extracts and their combination could be used as natural preservatives for trout fillet shelf-life extension.

Value of Ultrasonic Elastography and Conventional Ultrasonography in the Differential Diagnosis of Non-Mass-like Breast Lesions

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of ultrasonic elastography (UE) and conventional ultrasonography (CUS) in the differential diagnosis of non-mass-like (NML) breast lesions. Static sonograms of 39 pathologically diagnosed NML breast lesions were reviewed. Lesions were evaluated by CUS and UE using CUS subjective ratings (benign, malignant or indeterminate), a 5-point subjective elasticity scoring system and the quantitative strain ratio (SR). Receiver operating characteristic curves and diagnostic tests were used to assess the diagnostic value of CUS and UE. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (Az) of the CUS, 5-point elasticity and SR methods were 0.848 (p < 0.001), 0.895 (p < 0.001) and 0.943 (p < 0.001), respectively. In diagnosing NML breast lesions, there was no significant difference between the 5-point elasticity and CUS methods. The combination of UE and CUS helps to improve the accuracy of the ultrasonic diagnosis of NML breast lesions.

Validation trial for efficacy of ultrasonographic measurement method to predict ascitic volume using virtual ultrasonography.

The aim of this study was to clarify whether ultrasound quantitative methods were positively correlated with volume of ascites evaluated by whole abdominopelvic CT. Sixty-eight patients with cirrhotic ascites were retrospectively analyzed. First, to confirm that virtual ultrasonography (VUS) is an alternative method to conventional ultrasound, 22 patients underwent both conventional ultrasonography and VUS. Second, the efficacy of US quantitative methods (3-point method, 4-point method, 5-point method, and Matsumoto's method) was confirmed by VUS in 68 patients. We assessed whether the ascites volume predicted by VUS corresponded with that calculated by 3D-CT. Of the 68 patients, 23 patients were analyzed before and after administration of tolvaptan. The predictive volumes calculated by VUS were remarkably relative to those yielded by conventional US. Correlations between exact volume and those measured by VUS were significantly high (3-point method: r = 0.882, p < 0.001; 4-point method: r = 0.797, p < 0.001; 5-point method: r = 0.836, p < 0.001; Matsumoto's method: r = 0.453, p < 0.001). Correlations between decreasing volume on 3D-CT and that measured by VUS were also significantly high in patients with administration of tolvaptan. Ascites volume measured by ultrasound was effective, especially the 3-point and 5-point methods. It was useful to assess the efficacy of diuretics in cirrhotic patients.