Angular Measurements Research Articles

A new, adaptive, self-administered, and generalizable method used to measure visual acuity.

Angular Indication Measurement (AIM) is an adaptive, self-administered, and generalizable orientation-judgment method designed to interrogate visual functions. We introduce AIM Visual Acuity (VA) and show its features and outcome measures. Angular Indication Measurement VA's ability to detect defocus was comparable with that of an Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letter chart and showed greater sensitivity to astigmatic blur. This proof-of-concept study introduces Angular Indication Measurement and applies it to VA. First, we compared the ability of AIM-VA and ETDRS to detect defocus and astigmatic blur in 22 normally sighted adults. Spherical and cylindrical lenses in the dominant eye induced blur. Second, we compared repeatability over two tests of AIM-VA and ETDRS. A repeated-measure analysis of variance showed a main effect for defocus blur and test. For the astigmatism experiment, an interaction between blur and orientation was found. Pairwise comparisons showed that AIM was more sensitive to astigmatic-induced VA loss than ETDRS. Bland-Altman plots showed small bias and no systematic learning effect for either test type and improved repeatability with more than two adaptive steps for AIM-VA. Angular Indication Measurement VA's ability to detect defocus was comparable with that of an ETDRS letter chart and showed greater sensitivity to induced astigmatic blur, and AIM-VA's repeatability is comparable with ETDRS when using two or more adaptive steps. Angular Indication Measurement's self-administered orientation judgment approach is generalizable to interrogate other visual functions, e.g., contrast, color, motion, and stereovision.

Assessing the Co-relation between Mandibular Flare and Thickness of Lingual Cortex in Relation to the Third Molars: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study.

To assess the co-relation between mandibular flare and thickness of lingual cortex in relation to the third molars. Retrospectively obtained computed tomography (CT) data of 26 patients was used after classifying them into respective skeletal malocclusion groups (classes I, II, and III). Thickness of lingual cortex was measured at crestal, middle, and apical levels in mandibular third molar region. Two angular and two linear measurements were used to measure mandibular flare. Angular measurements included the angle between condylion (Co) and menton (Me), and between gonion (Go) and menton (Me). Linear measurements included bigonial and bicondylion widths. The two angular measurements did not differ significantly among the three skeletal malocclusion groups. Contrastingly, bicondylion width differed significantly among the three groups. Class II group showed no significant correlation between mandibular flare and lingual cortical thickness. Class III group demonstrated a significant negative correlation of linear and angular measurements with cortical bone thickness. Bicondylion width was significantly more in Class III group than in other skeletal groups, which proved an increased mandibular flare in patients with Class III malocclusion. Increase in mandibular flare was associated with decreased thickness of lingual cortical bone.

Model analysis through two-dimensional evaluation of alveolar changes of untreated unilateral cleft lip and palate infants

The primary objective of therapeutic interventions for unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) is to reestablish typical role and anatomy. The efficacy of nasoalveolar molding relies on the age at which it is initiated, thus early initiation is recommended. Evaluating the success of presurgical orthopedics involves assessing the after-treatment maxillary arch form and proportions in UCLP infants and comparing them to age-matched infants without clefts. Untreated UCLP cases exhibit various changes in the transverse and angular dimensions of the alveolar segment. Utilizing digital analysis of UCLP plaster casts through Photoshop software (version 24.0.0) can serve as an alternative method to predict changes in cleft width, arch width, and angular measurements in untreated cases.

Identification of viscoelastic material properties by ultrasonic angular measurements in double through-transmission.

Recent advances in additive manufacturing (AM) of viscoelastic materials have paved the way toward the design of increasingly complex structures. In particular, emerging biomedical applications in acoustics involve structures with periodic micro-architectures, which require a precise knowledge of longitudinal and transverse bulk properties of the constituent materials. However, the identification of the transverse properties of highly soft and attenuating materials remains particularly challenging. Thereby, the present work provides a methodological framework to identify the frequency-dependent ultrasound characteristics (i.e., phase velocity and attenuation) of viscoelastic materials. The proposed approach relies on an inverse procedure based on angular measurements achieved in double through-transmission, referred as θ-scan. Toward this goal, a forward modeling of the double transmitted waves through a homogeneous solid is proposed for any incidence angle based on the global matrix formalism. The experimental validation is conducted by performing ultrasound measurements on two types of photopolymers that are commonly employed for AM purposes: a soft elastomer (ElasticoTM Black) and a glassy polymer (VeroUltraTM White). As a result, the inferred dispersive ultrasound characteristics are of interest for the computational calibration and validation of models involving complex multi-material structures in the MHz regime.

Comparison of conventional and cone beam computed tomography synthetized cephalograms in evaluating different skeletal patterns

Abstract Objectives To compare conventional and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) synthetized cephalograms in evaluating different skeletal patterns. Patients and methods This cross-sectional study was carried out on 30 CBCT scans and lateral cephalograms of Egyptian orthodontic patients of both sexes with different skeletal malocclusion patterns. Their ages ranging from 18 to 25 years old before orthodontic treatment. The conventional radiographs were called LCR images, and the cephalograms dragged from CBCT were called CBCT images. All patients were subjected to cephalometric analysis. Results There was a highly statistically significant difference between both groups in angular measurements SNA°, SNB°, and FMP°. Also, there were statistically significant differences between both groups in SN/MP°, U1/FHP°, and L1/MP°. However, there were no statistically significant differences between both groups regarding ANB°, Y-axis°, and Inter Incisal Angle. Conclusions CBCT-synthesized cephalograms demonstrated more accurate dimensional measurements than conventional lateral cephalograms. CBCT-synthesized cephalograms could be confidently used for the evaluation of different skeletal malocclusion. CBCT could successfully replace conventional cephalograms for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Related Anatomic and Functional Parameters for the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Chiari Malformation Type I: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Imaging parameters of Chiari malformation type I (CMI) development are not well established. This study aimed to collect evidence of general or specific imaging measurements in patients with CMI, analyze indicators that may assist in determining the severity of CMI, and guide its diagnosis and treatment. A comprehensive search was conducted across various databases including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase, covering the period from January 2002 to October 2023, following predefined inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan (ver. 5.4). We performed a quantitative summary and systematic analysis of the included studies. This study was registered in the PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) prior to initiation (CRD42023415454). Thirty-three studies met our inclusion criteria. The findings indicated that out of the 14 parameters examined, 6 (clivus length, basal angle, Boogard's angle, supraocciput lengths, posterior cranial fossa [PCF] height, and volume) exhibited significant differences between the CMI group and the control group. Furthermore, apart from certain anatomical parameters that hold prognostic value for CMI, functional parameters like tonsillar movement, obex displacement, and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics serve as valuable indicators for guiding the clinical management of the disease. We collated and established a set of linear, angular, and area measurements deemed essential for diagnosing CMI. However, more indicators can only be analyzed descriptively for various reasons, particularly in prognostic prediction. We posit that the systematic assessment of patients' PCF morphology, volume, and other parameters at a 3-dimensional level holds promising clinical application prospects.

Effects of Limbs' Spasticity on Spinopelvic Alignment in Post-Stroke Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the impacts of upper and lower limb (UL and LL) spasticity and impairment on spinal alignment in chronic post-stroke patients. Methods: A total of 45 consecutive chronic post-stroke patients, 18 women and 27 men, from 18 to 70 years old who presented post-stroke hemiparesis were recruited in this cross-sectional study. The clinical assessment included the Modified Ashworth Scale (UL-MAS and LL-MAS spasticity), Upper Limb Motricity Index (UL-MI), FAST-UL, and Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (5T-STS); the Associated Reaction Rating Scale was used to measure associated reactions in the hemiparetic UL, the plumb line distance from the spinous process of C7 on the sagittal (PL-C7s) and frontal plane (Pl-C7f), the kyphosis apex (PL-AK), and the spinous process of L3 (PL-L3). Angular measures of spinal alignment were measured by a Bunnell scoliometer™ (angle of trunk rotation-ATR) and a gravity-dependent inclinometer (inclination at C7-T1 and T12-L1). Results: In chronic post-stroke patients, there was found to be an association between the 5T-STS and PL-C7f (β = 0.41, p = 0.05) and the angle of inclination at T12-L1 (β = 0.44, p = 0.01). The FAST-UL correlated with PL-C7f (β = -0.41, p = 0.05), while the UL-MI correlated with this last parameter (β = -0.36, p = 0.04) and the ATR (β = -0.31, p = 0.05). The UL-MAS showed correlation with the ATR (β = 0.38, p = 0.01). Conclusions: The results lead to the possibility that, in chronic post-stroke patients, spinal misalignment on the frontal and sagittal plane is associated both with strength impairment and UL spasticity. The improvement or restoration of spinopelvic parameters can take advantage of therapeutic interventions targeted at motor improvement and spasticity reduction of the hemiparetic side.

Cephalometric Evaluation of Children with Short Stature of Genetic Etiology: A Review.

Introduction: A plethora of biological molecules regulate chondrogenesis in the epiphyseal growth plate. Disruptions of the quantity and function of these molecules can manifest clinically as stature abnormalities of various etiologies. Traditionally, the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) axis represents the etiological centre of final stature attainment. Of note, little is known about the molecular events that dominate the growth of the craniofacial complex and its correlation with somatic stature. Aim: Given the paucity of relevant data, this review discusses available information regarding potential applications of lateral cephalometric radiography as a potential clinical indicator of genetic short stature in children. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed electronic database using the keywords: cephalometric analysis and short stature; cephalometric analysis and achondroplasia; cephalometric analysis and hypochondroplasia; cephalometric analysis and skeletal abnormalities; cephalometr* and SHOX; cephalometr* and CNP; cephalometr* and ACAN; cephalometr* and CNVs; cephalometr* and IHH; cephalometr* and FGFR3; cephalometr* and Noonan syndrome; cephalometr* and "Turner syndrome"; cephalometr* and achondroplasia. Results: In individuals with genetic syndromes causing short stature, linear growth of the craniofacial complex is confined, following the pattern of somatic short stature regardless of its aetiology. The angular and linear cephalometric measurements differ from the measurements of the average normal individuals and are suggestive of a posterior placement of the jaws and a vertical growth pattern of the face. Conclusions: The greater part of the existing literature regarding cephalometric measurements in short-statured children with genetic syndromes provides qualitative data. Furthermore, cephalometric data for individuals affected with specific rare genetic conditions causing short stature should be the focus of future studies. These quantitative data are required to potentially establish cut-off values for reference for genetic testing based on craniofacial phenotypes.

Magnetization reversal process in flat and patterned exchange-biased CoO/[Co/Pd] thin films

Nanostructured magnetic materials have gained great interest due to their possible technological applications in electronic and spintronic devices or in medicine as drug carriers. The key issue which decides on their potential industrial utilization is an exhibited type of a magnetization reversal process. Two main approaches used to describe the switching mechanism are the domain wall motion and coherent magnetization rotation, known as the Kondorsky and Stoner–Wohlfarth models, respectively. The reversal modes can be distinguished by angular measurements of hysteresis loops; however, in many experimental reports the dependencies do not precisely follow either of the models. This makes the question of how the magnetization reversal takes place and how to control or modify it one of the unclear and worth investigation issues in the research on magnetic materials. In this paper, we present our studies on the magnetization reversal in the exchange-biased CoO/[Co/Pd] thin films deposited on a flat substrate and on an array of anodized titanium oxide nanostructures. We studied the reversal mechanism using hysteresis loops and First-Order Reversal Curves. Interestingly, instead of the typical for the flat Co/Pd multilayers Kondorsky process, the system shows a crossover between the domain wall motion and the coherent rotation. A similar situation takes place for the pattern sample. Here, we connect this unusual behavior with the interface exchange interaction responsible for the exchange bias effect.

Evaluating the accuracy of one-piece and three-piece 3D-printed indirect bonding transfer trays: An in vitro study.

Recent developments in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and 3D printing have enabled the fabrication of digital indirect bonding (IDB) transfer trays. These modern products require thorough investigation. The aim of the study was to determine the accuracy of one-piece and three-piece IDB transfer trays in vitro. An initial dental scan (IDS) of a randomly selected patient with digitally positioned brackets served as the master scan (MS) for designing 16 IDB transfer trays of each type. They were 3D printed and used for bonding 448 brackets to the models. Subsequently, the models were scanned with a TRIOS® 3 Intraoral Scanner (3Shape A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark), producing actual scans (ASs). The accuracy of bracket positioning was measured digitally on both MSs and ASs. The measurements were compared to the Objective Grading System for dental casts provided by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). The 2 types of IDB transfer trays showed comparable accuracy. All linear errors were within the clinically acceptable range, whereas the angular measurements demonstrated significant variability, resulting in clinically unacceptable transfer errors that ranged from 3.3% to 90.3%. The study results cannot be unconditionally extrapolated to other types of IDB transfer trays due to the diversity of their properties and features. The study evaluated the in vitro accuracy of IDB transfer trays. The revealed number of errors may be even higher in vivo due to limitations in visibility, salivary flow, interference from the tongue, and difficulties in achieving a proper fit of the IDB transfer tray to the teeth.

Sub-nanometre quality X-ray mirrors created using ion beam figuring.

Ion beam figuring (IBF) is a powerful technique for figure correction of X-ray mirrors to a high accuracy. Here, recent technical advancements in the IBF instrument developed at Diamond Light Source are presented and experimental results for figuring of X-ray mirrors are given. The IBF system is equipped with a stable DC gridded ion source (120 mm diameter), a four-axis motion stage to manipulate the optic, a Faraday cup to monitor the ion-beam current, and a camera for alignment. A novel laser speckle angular measurement instrument also provides on-board metrology. To demonstrate the IBF system's capabilities, two silicon X-ray mirrors were processed. For 1D correction, a height error of 0.08 nm r.m.s. and a slope error of 44 nrad r.m.s. were achieved. For 2D correction over a 67 mm × 17 mm clear aperture, a height error of 0.8 nm r.m.s.and a slope error of 230 nrad r.m.s. were obtained. For the 1D case, this optical quality is comparable with the highest-grade, commercially available, X-ray optics.

Идентификация эллипса ошибок и подеры эллипса ошибок по элементам ковариационной матрицы

The authors present a study of the point position mistake relationship with the elements of the error ellipse. The comparison of the mentioned error, determined by the F. R. Helmert’s and P. Werkmeister’s formulas, is given. It is shown that they both are related to the elements of the error ellipse and the covariance matrix of the coordinate vector. For the conditions of the polar serif, the dependence of the correlation coefficient of the determined point coordinates on the directional angle of the line to this point, as well as that of the angular and linear measurements mutual accuracy, is established. The relationships between the elements of the covariance matrix and those of the ellipse of point position errors are investigated for various special cases. Namely, when the correlation coefficient is zero, it is ± 1, in the case of equality of the determined point’s inverse weight matrix diagonal elements and when the determination of the point’s position was performed by a polar serif. The error ellipse dimension is considered as a function of linear COEX systems in all directions. Its graphs and subtypes are presented depending on the determined point’s inverse weight matrix elements values

A Comparative Study: Photogrammetry and Cephalometric Analysis for Orthodontic Treatment Planning

Introduction: Cephalometric analysis constitutes the benchmark for diagnosing craniofacial morphology in orthodontic practice. However, the increasing demand for aesthetic standards has clinicians questioning whether ideal cephalometric measurements are synonymous with facial aesthetics since soft tissues do not necessarily follow the underlying skeletal profile. In addition, rising concerns about radiation exposure have necessitated a non-radiographic, non-invasive and cost-effective alternative. Facial photography has been an integral part of orthodontic treatment planning but usually as an adjunct to record keeping. However, recent studies have proven the reliability of using photographs for soft-tissue analysis. It provides an easily reproducible, economical and low technique-sensitive procedure to evaluate cranial morphology, especially for epidemiologic research. The primary aim of this study is to determine if photographic analysis could be utilised with precision for orthodontic diagnosis. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Orthodontics, J. S. S. Dental College and Hospital, Mysuru. This study selected 100 patients aged 12–28 years who had reported to the department for orthodontic treatment. Standardised profile photographs and lateral cephalograms were obtained from the patients as part of the records required. Traditional cephalometric (angular and linear) measurements and corresponding photographic ones used for sagittal and vertical assessment were analysed to draw inferences. Results: The reliability of the photographic technique was proven with intraclass correlation coefficients above 0.79. A highly significant correlation (P < 0.001) was found between all parameters. N-Sn-Pog/N’-Sn-Pog’ (0.946), SN-MP/TrN’-MP” (0.844) and FMA/FMA’ showed the highest coefficients of correlation. The photographic variable that best explained the variability of its analogous cephalometric measurement was the N-SN-Pog angle (r 2 = 0.895). Conclusion: The photographic method has proven to be repeatable and reproducible. With a homogeneous protocol, the photographic method is a practical alternative to lateral cephalograms, especially in cases that require a non-invasive, low-cost option.

Magnetization dynamics and domain reversal in electrodeposited permalloy thin films: impact of thickness and annealing treatment

The domain reversal and magnetization dynamics of electrodeposited permalloy (Fe20Ni80) thin films on conducting ITO/glass substrate was investigated using Magneto-optic Kerr effect microscopy and ferromagnetic resonance. Permalloy thin films were electrodeposited with thickness ranging from 66 nm to 330 nm. Synchrotron XRD confirmed the deposited permalloy in FCC phase without any impurity. The squared hysteresis with very low coercivity (Hc ∼ 5 Oe) established soft magnetic nature of the films. Further, angular MOKE hysteresis measurements with simultaneous domain imaging revealed four-fold surface anisotropy in as-deposited film ensuing magnetization reversal via branched and ripple domains. The annealing treatment in Ar+H2 atmosphere removed surface anisotropy and renovated the magnetization reversal through 180° branched domains with rapid magnetization switching. Ferromagnetic resonance spectroscopy discloses reduction in the gyromagnetic ratio (γ) as well as in Gilbert damping parameter (α) as the film thickness increases. The lowest Gilbert damping for 330 nm film measured at 0.022, which further reduced to 0.018 after annealing. The combination of rapid magnetization switching and low Gilbert damping in the electrodeposited permalloy thin films render them promising for implementation in high-frequency microwave devices devices and magnetic sensors.

Magnetotransport properties of ternary tetradymite films with high mobility

(Bi,Sb)2(Te,Se)3 tetradymite materials are among the most efficient for thermoelectric energy conversion, and most robust for topological insulator spintronic technologies, but should possess rather disparate doping properties to be useful for either technology. In this work, we report results on the molecular beam epitaxy growth of p-type (Bi0.43Sb0.57)2Te3 and n-type Bi2(Te0.95Se0.05)3 that can contribute to both technology bases, but are especially useful for topological insulators where low bulk doping is critical for devices to leverage the Dirac-like topological surface states. Comprehensive temperature, field and angular dependent magnetotransport measurements have attested to the superior quality of these ternary tetradymite films, displaying low carrier density on the order of 1018 cm−3 and a record high mobility exceeding 104 cm2 V−1 s−1 at 2 K. The remarkable manifestation of strong Shubnikov–de Haas (SdH) quantum oscillation under 9 T at liquid helium temperatures, as well as the analyses therein, has allowed direct experimental investigation of the tetradymite electronic structure with optimized ternary alloying ratio. Our effort substantiates tetradymites as a critical platform for miniaturized thermoelectric cooling and power generation in wearable consumer electronics, as well as for futuristic topological spintronics with unprecedented magnetoelectric functionalities.

Linear measurements and shape analysis in the calcaneus of selected dog breeds.

The vast array of dog breeds showcases a remarkable diversity that extends to osteological differences. Exploring these morphological distinctions and establishing reference data for various dog breeds are essential steps in comprehending the evolutionary changes that dogs have undergone. In this study, we conducted linear measurements of the calcaneus and performed shape analyses on selected dog breeds to elucidate distinctive characteristics among them. X-ray images of the calcaneus from six different dog breeds-Maltese Terrier, Toy Poodle, Pomeranian, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog and Golden Retriever-were utilized for this investigation. Radiological images were obtained from a medio-lateral exposure, positioned 30 cm away from the x-ray device. From these images, four linear length measurements and two angle values were extracted. Additionally, a 2D geometric morphometric analysis was conducted using 32 semi landmarks placed on the radiological images. Linear measurements were assessed using ANOVA, while principal component analysis was employed to examine shape variations across all individuals. Shape differences between species were further elucidated through canonical variates analysis. The results revealed that the Golden Retriever exhibited the highest values for linear measurements, while the Pomeranian showed the lowest. Maltese Terriers displayed the highest dorsal calcaneal angle value. Notably, there were significant differences in calcaneal body length among all breeds, except for the Toy Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Moreover, Maltese Terriers exhibited statistically distinct angular measurements compared to other breeds. Principal component analysis unveiled that the first principal component explained 32.69% of the total variation, with the cranial edge of the calcaneal body being closer to the body in individuals with higher values. Shape variations also indicated that Golden Retrievers displayed a broader range of shapes compared to French Bulldogs, which exhibited a more conservative distribution. While there was no clear breed-specific distinction according to the first principal component, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels generally showed lower values. In canonical variates analysis, distinctions in calcaneal shape between species were apparent, with Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and French Bulldogs displaying positive values for the first canonical variates. The highest Procrustes distance was observed between Maltese Terriers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Notably, allometry was found to be statistically insignificant. This comprehensive study utilized both linear and geometric morphometric analyses based on x-ray images, yielding promising results. The integration of imaging systems in veterinary anatomy research presents numerous opportunities for studying animal welfare and health, utilizing various materials such as bones and cadavers. These advancements hold the potential for further enhancing our understanding of animal morphology and well-being.

Trueness of Extraoral Digital Impressions for Full-Arch Implant Impressions-In Vitro Study.

Direct scanning of silicone impressions is a valid technique. However, studies in implant-supported rehabilitations are lacking. This in vitro study aims to compare the trueness of impressions obtained with two types of silicone and their corresponding stone casts, using two laboratory scanners in a full-arch implant rehabilitation. A master cast with six dental implants was scanned with a 12-megapixel scanner to obtain a digital master cast. Ten implant impressions were made using two silicones (Zhermack and Coltene) with the open-tray technique. The impressions and stone casts were scanned by two extraoral scanners (Identica T500, Medit; and S600 ARTI, Zirkonzhan). Trueness was assessed by comparing linear and angular distances in digital casts with the master cast. A p < 0.05 significance level was considered. The results showed that for the linear measurements, 72% were higher than the master cast measurements, and no consistent pattern was observed in the angular measurements. The greatest deviations were detected between the most posterior implants, with mean values ranging between 173 and 314 µm. No significant differences were found between scanners. However, differences were observed in the distances between silicones (46.7%) and between impressions and stone casts (73.3%). This work demonstrates that the direct scanning of silicone impressions yields results comparable to those obtained from scanning gypsum casts in full-arch implant-supported rehabilitation.

Comparison of Foraging Interactive D-prime and Angular Indication Measurement Stereo with different methods to assess stereopsis

Purpose Stereopsis is a critical visual function, however clinical stereotests are time-consuming, coarse in resolution, suffer memorization artifacts, poor repeatability, and low agreement with other tests. Foraging Interactive D-prime (FInD) Stereo and Angular Indication Measurement (AIM) Stereo were designed to address these problems. Here, their performance was compared with 2-Alternative-Forced-Choice (2-AFC) paradigms (FInD Stereo only) and clinical tests (Titmus and Randot) in 40 normally-sighted and 5 binocularly impaired participants (FInD Stereo only). Methods During FInD tasks, participants indicated which cells in three 4*4 charts of bandpass-filtered targets (1,2,4,8c/° conditions) contained depth, compared with 2-AFC and clinical tests. During the AIM task, participants reported the orientation of depth-defined bars in three 4*4 charts. Stereoscopic disparity was adaptively changed after each chart. Inter-test agreement, repeatability and duration were compared. Results Test duration was significantly longer for 2-AFC (mean = 317s;79s per condition) than FInD (216s,18s per chart), AIM (179s, 60s per chart), Titmus (66s) or RanDot (97s). Estimates of stereoacuity differed across tests and were higher by a factor of 1.1 for AIM and 1.3 for FInD. No effect of stimulus spatial frequency was found. Agreement among tests was generally low (R2 = 0.001 to 0.24) and was highest between FInD and 2-AFC (R2 = 0.24;p&lt;0.01). Stereoacuity deficits were detected by all tests in binocularly impaired participants. Conclusions Agreement among all tests was low. FInD and AIM inter-test agreement was comparable with other methods. FInD Stereo detected stereo deficits and may only require one condition to identify these deficits. AIM and FInD are response-adaptive, self-administrable methods that can estimate stereoacuity reliably within one minute.

Artificial Intelligence in Musculoskeletal Radiographs: Scoliosis, Hip, Limb Length, and Lower Extremity Alignment Measurements

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning approaches are increasingly being used in musculoskeletal (MSK) radiology with more articles involving AI published every year. A variety of length and angular measurements are used in the evaluation of MSK pathology. The purpose of this article is to discuss the current applications of AI in performing radiographic measurements pertaining to scoliosis, hip pathology, limb length, and lower extremity alignment. To that end, we identified a multitude of studies demonstrating that AI, in general, can accurately and efficiently generate automated measurements for diagnostic and management purposes. Current literature is reviewed, and future directions are highlighted.

Operational Angular Track Reconstruction in Space Surveillance Radars through an Adaptive Beamforming Approach

In the last few years, many space surveillance initiatives have started to consider the problem represented by resident space object overpopulation. In particular, the European Space Surveillance and Tracking (EUSST) consortium is in charge of providing services like collision avoidance, fragmentation analysis, and re-entry, which rely on measurements obtained through ground-based sensors. BIRALES is an Italian survey radar belonging to the EUSST framework and is capable of providing measurements including Doppler shift, slant range, and angular profile. In recent years, the Music Approach for Track Estimate and Refinement (MATER) algorithm has been developed to retrieve angular tracks through an adaptive beamforming technique, guaranteeing the generation of more accurate and robust measurements with respect to the previous static beamforming approach. This work presents the design of a new data processing chain to be used by BIRALES to compute the angular track. The signal acquired by the BIRALES receiver array is down-converted and the receiver bandwidth is split into multiple channels, in order to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio of the measurements. Then, the signal passes through a detection block, where an isolation procedure creates, for each epoch, signal correlation matrices (CMs) related to the channels involved in the detection and then processes them to isolate the data stream related to a single detected source. Consequently, for each epoch and for each detected source, just the CM featuring the largest signal contribution is kept, allowing deriving the Doppler shift measurement from the channel illumination sequence. The MATER algorithm is applied to each CM stream, first estimating the signal directions of arrival, then grouping them in the observation time window, and eventually returning the target angular track. Ambiguous estimates may be present due to the configuration of the receiver array, which cause spatial aliasing phenomena. This problem can be addressed by either exploiting transit prediction (in the case of cataloged objects), or by applying tailored criteria (for uncatalogued objects). The performance of the new architecture was assessed in real operational scenarios, demonstrating the enhancement represented by the implementation of the channelization strategy, as well as the angular measurement accuracy returned by MATER, in both nominal and off-nominal scenarios.