Dimensional Measurements Research Articles

Crack Detection and Cost Analyzer Using AI

Crack Vision is an innovative AI-powered Android application developed to detect and analyze wall cracks, providing users with real-time, automated repair cost estimates. By leveraging advanced object detection models such as YOLOv7 and Mask R-CNN, Crack Vision enhances both the accuracy and efficiency of crack detection, enabling precise measurement of crack dimensions, severity assessment, and quick identification of structural issues. This application simplifies the inspection and budgeting process for wall repairs, making it an essential tool for homeowners, contractors, and structural engineers who seek to minimize reliance on manual inspection methods. The core functionality of Crack Vision combines high-resolution image processing with state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms, ensuring reliable detection across various wall types and crack textures. Using computer vision and deep learning techniques, the app can differentiate between structural and non-structural cracks, thereby offering a comprehensive solution for repair prioritization. Furthermore, Crack Vision integrates with a robust backend that stores user data, allowing users to track the condition of their walls over time. This feature aids in preventive maintenance by identifying trends in crack expansion and deterioration, potentially mitigating costly repairs. Additionally, the application provides a detailed breakdown of estimated repair costs based on crack size, depth, and type, empowering users to make informed decisions about necessary repairs. Crack Vision is designed with user-friendliness in mind, featuring an intuitive interface that guides users through the inspection process. The app also supports multilingual options and customizable settings to cater to diverse user needs. In sum, Crack Vision redefines wall crack inspection, offering a rapid, accurate, and accessible solution for both casual users and industry professionals, ultimately contributing to improved building safety and maintenance efficiency

Virtual X-ray critical dimension metrology via Monte Carlo simulation.

X-ray critical dimension (XCD) metrology is a highly promising technique for achieving sub-nanometer precision in critical dimension measurements at advanced nodes of integrated circuit manufacturing. Compared to XCD experiments utilizing synchrotron radiation sources, those employing compact X-ray sources encounter challenges like extended testing time and increased uncertainty. To evaluate the influence of experimental conditions on measurement results, we developed an ab initio virtual X-ray critical dimension metrology via a Monte Carlo simulation (MC-VXCD). Through calibrating the system parameters of the MC-VXCD to a home-built compact XCD instrument, we achieved excellent consistency between virtual and actual measurement results. The virtual instrument effectively estimated measurement errors stemming from the reduced exposure time, which significantly influences the measurement accuracy and throughput. Furthermore, through the MC-VXCD, we establish the connection between the application scenarios of the XCD metrology and the geometry of XCD instruments, offering a versatile platform for the system design, experimental configuration optimization, data analysis, etc., in XCD metrology.

Abstract 4146311: Cardiac Thickening, Cell Free DNA, and Rejection in the 2 nd Porcine Cardiac Xenograft

Introduction/Background: A 58-year-old man with inotrope dependent heart failure was declined for allotransplant and MCS at multiple centers and was transplanted with a 10 gene-edited porcine cardiac xenograft under FDA expanded access Investigational New Drug (eIND) approval. After requiring perioperative transfusions, by post operative day (POD) 13, endomyocardial biopsy revealed antibody and complement deposition without damage or cellular infiltrate. Hemodynamic decompensation on POD 29 prompted biopsy revealing antibody mediated rejection (AMR). The patient required ECMO support POD31 and chose comfort care POD 40. Research Questions/Hypothesis: The cardiac xenograft doubled in mass from implant to autopsy. Donor derived cell free DNA (cfDNA) correlated temporally with the rejection findings. These processes are hypothesized to correlate. Approach: Routine TTE measurements of diastolic LV posterior wall dimension (LVPWd), intraventricular septal dimension (IVSd), LV mass, and LV mass index were taken. Donor derived cfDNA was measured weekly and PRN (Care Dx Inc., Brisbane, CA). Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was conducted in GraphPad Prism 10 (Dotmatics, Boston, MA). Results/Data: POD 26 TTE measurements indicated thickening graft. POD 30 cfDNA began elevating. cfDNA correlated moderately with LVPWd (r = 0.43, p=0.4) and IVSd (r= 0.5, p=0.31) less so with LV mass (r= 0.28, p=0.59) and LV mass index (r=0.34, p=0.51) Conclusions: Xenograft cardiac thickening measured on TTE preceded elevation in cfDNA. Both were moderately correlated and temporally corresponded to biopsy diagnosed AMR and ultimate graft failure. Future xenograft surveillance will likely benefit from multimodal approach.

Mechanical and surface characterisation of additively manufactured polyetheretherketone for the tribo test

Purpose The additive manufacturing process, such as fused filament fabrication based on material extrusion, fabricates the samples layer-by-layer. The various parameters in the process significantly affect the dimensions, structure and mechanical properties of the fabricated parts. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the surface and mechanical properties that can affect the contact characteristics with other materials during tribological tests. Design/methodology/approach The investigation of 3D-printed Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) includes the measurement of dimensions, microhardness, surface roughness, surface energy and tensile strength to define material characteristics. The crystallinity is measured using an X-ray diffractometer to understand the hardness behaviour. Findings The printing parameters affect its surface roughness, hardness and crystallinity. This change in parameters such as layer thickness and infill density impacts mechanical properties such as hardness and surface roughness, which will influence the contact mechanism with the counter body during any tribological test. The change in a single parameter during the sample fabrication and the change in the surface and mechanical properties are observed. Research limitations/implications The material cost plays an important role in conducting numerous destructive tests, which is a major limitation to conducting parameter optimisation by varying more parameters. The study is limited to the as-fabricated samples rather than finished samples and without any heat treatment. Achieving optimal parameters is integral to the success of additive manufacturing, ensuring the production of components with consistent performance. Practical implications The study aims at the application of 3D-printed PEEK for bush or journal bearings that can be directly used in practice. The mechanical properties discussed in this paper can fill the gap between theory and practice. Social implications The research provides all fundamental properties, including the printing parameters and their effect on the dimensions and surface structure, which are required to understand the material and its use. The results are consistent as at least four samples were tested for tribological behaviour. The conclusion is updated as per suggestions. Originality/value The study outlines the relationship between the change in layer thickness and infill density with changes in surface energy, surface roughness, hardness and tensile strength. The deformation and adhesion during the friction test depend on these properties.

Conventional Versus Regenerative Methods for Wound Healing: A Comparative Experimental Study on a Sheep Model

Background and Objectives: Wound healing is a complex process involving cellular, anatomical, and functional repair, often hindered in chronic wounds associated with diseases like diabetes and vascular disorders. This study investigated the efficacy of conventional and regenerative wound healing approaches in a sheep surgical wound model. Materials and Methods: Six female Bergamasca sheep underwent five full-thickness skin lesions treated with various methods: sterile gauze (control), chlorhexidine, sodium hypochlorite, micronized dermis system application, and dermal matrix. Wound healing progression was monitored over 42 days through wound dimension measurements, exudate analysis, and histopathological evaluations. Results: The results indicated that all wounds healed completely by day 42, with significant reductions in wound size and exudate over time. Notably, Micronized dermis system application and dermal matrix treatments showed a faster evolution in exudate characteristics and improved collagen reorganization compared to other treatments. Histological analysis revealed earlier neovascularization and better reconstitution of hair follicles in these groups. Despite the lack of significant differences in healing time, both regenerative approaches enhanced wound healing phases, contributing to exudate control, angiogenesis promotion, and reduced scar formation. Conclusions: The findings suggest that while micronized dermis system application and dermal matrix do not accelerate acute wound healing compared to conventional methods, they offer potential benefits in managing exudate and improving tissue regeneration, warranting further investigation in chronic wound scenarios.

“Frontal Sinus Setback in Facial Feminization Surgery: Emphasizing Anatomical Landmarks Over Virtual Planning and Cutting Guides”

Background: Demand for facial feminization surgery (FFS) is growing amidst increasing recognition of its significant impact on gender affirmation. Forehead contouring via frontal sinus setback is a powerful procedure for feminizing the upper facial skeleton. While Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) has been described as a useful tool in these surgeries, the associated cost may limit access for patients seeking these transformative interventions, especially those who lack insurance coverage for FFS. This study challenges the emerging notion that VSP is critical for the successful execution of frontal sinus setbacks. Methods: We present a technique that relies on well-defined anatomical landmarks of the frontal sinus and standard maxillofacial CT imaging for pre-operative planning, eliminating the need for expensive, pre-operatively prepared cutting guides. Key steps in this technique include obtaining detailed measurements of the frontal sinus dimensions and contour, visualizing the nasofrontal junction, reshaping the frontal sinus, resecting the corrugator muscle, and finally, performing a direct browlift. Results: In our cohort of 13 patients, including a 65-year-old transgender female with significant forehead prominence, this approach consistently achieved satisfactory outcomes without complications. Conclusion: By demonstrating that high-quality results can be achieved without VSP, we present a cost-conscious approach to FFS for a more inclusive and equitable provision to gender-affirming care. Surgical expertise and understanding of patient-specific anatomy are crucial in achieving these results, emphasizing the importance of skill over reliance on technology.

Comparative analysis of fetal dose sparing between a C-arm linac and an O-ring linac in a SIB-VMAT sarcoma treatment for a pregnant patient: A technical note and case report.

To compare the effect of two linacs designs on fetal dose sparing on a pregnant patient, including estimation of the fetal dose, and the effect of a lead apron. A patient with a high-grade sarcoma located in the right knee/lower thigh was prescribed 51Gy (1.7Gy/Fx) with a simultaneous-integrated-boost (SIB) of 60Gy to a smaller volume, starting in the 26thgestational week. Volumetric modulated radiation therapy (VMAT) plans with 6MV-FFF were developed using identical dosimetric constraints on a Varian Truebeam Edge with HD-MLC and a Varian Halcyon with double-stacked MLC. Based on patient dimension measurements, an anthropomorphic phantom was constructed using a Rando phantom and saline bags in the patient's Vac-Lok bag. Phantom measurements were performed using OSLDs and TLDs placed at three different planes, corresponding to the pubis, the umbilicus, and the fundus based on patient measurements and projected gestational age, to estimate the fetal dose. Three experimental scenarios were measured, each with CBCT-based image guidance for an accurate, reproducible setup: Edge, Halcyon, and Halcyon with a tri-folded lead apron (0.5mm×3=1.5mmPb) over the phantom abdomen. Plan quality and total MUs are comparable between the Edge and Halcyon plans. The OSLD-measured whole-course dose to the pubis, umbilicus, and fundus were 18.8, 13.1, and 11.7 cGy, respectively, on Halcyon, on average 27.8% lower than Edge. The repeatability within either dosimeter was good, although TLD showed systematically lower doses. Importantly, both dosimetry systems showed a lower measured fetal dose for the Halcyon plan compared with the Edge plan. Adding a tri-folded lead apron over the abdomen did not meaningfully lower the measured dose. In this case study, Halcyon demonstrated a better sparing of out-of-field fetal dose compared to TrueBeam Edge. It was shown that lead aprons do not provide additional fetal dose sparing.

Dynamic Narrowing of the Diaphragmatic Vena Cava in Ovis aries.

Dorset sheep (Ovis aries) are common models in translational cardiovascular research due to physiologic and anatomic similarities to humans. While employing ovine subjects to study single-ventricle physiology, we repeatedly observed position-based changes in central venous pressure (CVP) which could not be explained by hydrostatic (gravitational) effects. Inferior vena cava (IVC) narrowing or compression has been demonstrated in numerous species, and we hypothesised that this phenomenon might explain our observations in O. aries. This study aimed to characterise position-dependent morphology of the IVC in O. aries using catheter-based hemodynamic and dimensional measurements, three-dimensional MRI reconstruction and histological analysis. Baseline measurements revealed a significant reduction in IVC dimensions at the level of the diaphragm (dVC) compared to the abdominal vena cava (aVC) and thoracic vena cava (tVC). We also observed a transdiaphragmatic pressure gradient along the IVC, with higher pressures in the aVC compared to the tVC. We found that variation of position and fluid status altered IVC haemodynamics. Histological data showed variable muscularity along the length of the IVC, with greater smooth muscle content in the aVC than the tVC. These findings will improve understanding of baseline ovine physiology, help refine experimental protocols and facilitate the translation of findings to the clinic.

Measurement and Comparison of Different Dimensions of Renewable Energy Policy Implementation in the Agricultural Sector

The current research aims to measure the different dimensions of renewable energy policy implementation and compare these dimensions with each other, focusing on Iran's agricultural sector. This analysis makes it possible to identify the strengths and weaknesses in implementing existing policies. The five dimensions include "organizational and institutional", "incentives", "investment", "infrastructure", and "human resources development". The statistical population of this research comprised energy policy experts, whose number was 85. The sampling method was random, and 70 persons participated in answering the questionnaire using the Karjesi and Morgan table. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The reliability of the questionnaire was calculated using Cronbach's alpha (0.916). Face validity, content validity ratio (CVR), and content validity index (CVI) were applied to determine validity. In the calculation of CVR, values ≥0.33 were considered reasonable and appropriate to confirm each item. All CVI values obtained were higher than 0.79. Multi-criteria analysis was used to analyze the data. The results indicated that organizational and institutional policies were at the highest level of unsustainability. The dimension of investment policies showed less unsustainability than other dimensions. The other three dimensions also showed significant deficiencies. It seems that policy development to eliminate the diversity and interference of organizations, fuel subsidies revision, market policy development, attracting capital, and participation of stakeholders is necessary to reduce unsustainability in this field. The development of the resources of expert forces and attention to educational policies should also be considered.

Direct Measurement of the Ciliary Sulcus Diameter Using Optical Coherence Tomography-Inter-Rater Variability.

The determination of sulcus-to-sulcus measurements has been challenging due to the limitations of current approaches. Ultrasound methods are highly operator-dependent and require extensive training, while traditional optical devices cannot visualize structures posterior to the iris. However, modern optical anterior segment coherence tomography (AS-OCT) devices are changing this paradigm by identifying some anatomical landmarks posterior to the iris. This study evaluates the reproducibility of optical sulcus measurements in the context of sizing a novel accommodative intraocular lens (IOL). Preoperative OCT scans of patients scheduled for cataract surgery were analyzed regarding the dimensions of the ciliary sulcus using a custom scan method with a clinically available anterior segment optical coherence tomographer. Measurements were compared between two different readers, and various derived parameters were compared. The measurements by both readers were highly correlated (R2 > 0.96), and their agreement was excellent (mean difference 0.02 mm with 95% limits of agreement from -0.11 to 0.15 mm). In contrast, the sulcus diameter measurement did not agree well with automatically calculated values, such as the anterior chamber width or white-to-white. This leads to the conclusion that modern swept-source AS-OCT measurements of the ciliary sulcus dimensions are feasible, reproducible, and may be a clinically useful tool.

Deep learning for fully automated echocardiographic measurements of left ventricular wall thickness and chamber dimensions in the parasternal long-axis view

Abstract Background Accurate quantification of left ventricular (LV) wall thickness and chamber dimensions in the echocardiographic parasternal long-axis view (PLAX) is crucial for clinical decisions in patients with heart disease. However, there is a need for more reproducible and time-efficient methods. Fully automated deep learning (DL)-based methods could address this need. Purpose To develop a DL-based method for fully automated measurements of LV wall thickness and chamber dimensions in PLAX, validate its performance in a large population cohort, and evaluate its capacity to differentiate between hypertensive and normotensive groups. Methods DL networks were trained on PLAX recordings from 207 subjects. The DL method performed cardiac segmentation, timing of end-systole and end-diastole, and measured LV wall thickness and chamber dimensions in PLAX. The model was validated in a large populational echocardiography dataset including a subset with test-retest evaluation. Agreement with expert reference measurements, test-retest reproducibility, and comparison of normotensive and hypertensive (defined as those on hypertensive medication or with systolic blood pressure >160 mmHg) groups were evaluated. Results In the populational study of 2047 subjects, the novel DL method demonstrated a feasibility of 97.6%. Strong agreement was observed between the automated DL method and expert readers in measuring end-diastolic septal thickness, posterior wall thickness, and LV diameter (bias 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, and 2.2 mm, respectively, Figure 1). In a test-retest dataset (n=40, with 2 recordings per patient and 4 readers), the novel DL method displayed improved reproducibility compared to inter-reader measurements, with minimal detectable change for interventricular septal diameter 2.2 mm versus 2.6 mm, posterior wall diameter 1.2 mm versus 2.5 mm, and LV diameter 5.0 mm versus 6.3 mm (Figure 2). The DL method measured significantly wider septal diameter in the hypertensive group compared to normotensive group (p<0.001). Mean analysis time for wall thickness and chamber dimensions using the DL method was 1.2 seconds. Conclusion The novel DL method accurately measured LV wall thickness and chamber dimensions in the PLAX view, and demonstrated improved test-retest reproducibility compared to experienced echocardiographers. Additionally, it was able to detect significantly wider septal diameters in the hypertensive population. By providing fast and reliable measurements in retrospective data, and with potential for real-time measurements during image acquisition, this DL method has the potential to improve the yield, efficiency, and workflow in echocardiography.Bland-Altman posterior wall diameterTest-retest posterior wall diameter

Indicators of primary health care workforce equity for attaining health equity

Abstract Background Healthcare workforce crises are often the result of inequities faced by healthcare workers. This study aims to discuss the primary policy questions related to health equity regarding the primary healthcare (PHC) workforce indicators. Methods Following the purposive review of published literature on HWF equity in PHC services, we applied an intersectional analysis of the compendiums of HWF indicators (e.g., supply, flows, skill mix, working conditions, promotion, training, funding, governance, etc.) to strategically link them to PHC policy issues for health equity and categorized qualitatively under each policy pillar against HWF crises. Results The proposed indicators address the measurement of multiple dimensions of health workforce equity. These include financial and non-financial incentives to monitor worker attrition reduction, gender pay gap, fairness in employment arrangements, remuneration, and working conditions. By monitoring the minimum wage for financially vulnerable health workforce groups, we can identify the need for potential increases to support well-being, reduce turnover, and increase productivity. Equally important is monitoring equity in health workforce education, planning, and management, which is crucial for achieving population health equity. By implementing indicators of health workforce diversity to address rural and underrepresented communities, primary healthcare managers can effectively plan the reduction of their unmet needs and minimize avoidable referrals. Conclusions To ensure equitable access to primary healthcare, we must measure workforce equity and its impact on population health. Monitoring the indicators of equitable health workforce policies and evaluating the improvement in retention and recruitment processes can more effectively address workforce crises. Key messages • Health workforce crises often stem from healthcare workforce inequities. • Health workforce equitable policies require a clear set of indicators.

Aortic integral distensibility based on the auto-segmented dynamic motion of the aortic wall

Abstract Background Aortic stiffness is important in cardiovascular diseases and predicting outcomes. Echocardiography is a widely used noninvasive imaging modality for assessing aortic stiffness, but its accuracy can be limited by the low spatial resolution of ultrasound-based images and the subjectivity of manual measurements of aortic dimensions. Automated segmentation analysis can provide a more accurate and objective measure. Objective An automated algorithm and software have been developed for segmenting the aortic wall. A new measurement technique called "Aortic Integral Distensibility (AID)" has been formulated using this framework. This method overcomes limitations of traditional method focusing solely on the two positions of Aortic Distensibility (AD). Method In this particular investigation, 112 participants were subjected to echocardiography in order to quantify the dynamics of the aortic wall. An automated algorithm was devised to delineate the aortic wall by utilizing an M-mode echocardiography scan. The statistical analysis encompassed the measurement of AD and AID before and after the age of 65 group. This analysis was conducted considering various risk factors, including age, gender, weight, BMI, smoking, and blood pressure. Additionally, clinical parameters, specifically AIx @75 (Augmentation Index) and Framingham Risk Score (FRS), were evaluated as well. Inter-rater reliability was conducted between the traditional AD and the newly implemented AID. Results The results indicate that the group under 65 had more distensibility than the group over 65, and AID measurements were slightly higher than AD measurements. SBP showed a strong correlation with AID, rather than AD. AIx @75 and FRS had a negative relationship with distensibility. In the 65 years or older group, there was a significant negative correlation observed between AIx @75 and AID (r = -0.4, p = 0.012). Furthermore, a strong correlation was also observed between FRS and AID (r = -0.53, p = 0.002). Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated that the automated methodology had better reproducibility and less variability in distensibility measurements than the manual methodology. Conclusion The study suggests that AID could be valuable for assessing aortic stiffness. AID could help clinicians diagnose and manage cardiovascular diseases more accurately. The automatic approach provides reliable measurements for aortic distensibility and strain, which has clinical implications.Schematic Chart of the Study Process

Feasibility, accuracy, and reproducibility of device sizing in virtual reality for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure - a single center study

Abstract Background Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is a safe and effective procedure for stroke prevention in patient with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Procedural planning and device sizing remains challenging due to the highly complex and variable three-dimensional (3D) anatomy of the left atrial appendage (LAA). Virtual reality (VR) is a innovative, recent technology allowing a superior spatial orientation visualization of 3D imaging datasets. Purpose Therefore, we aimed to evaluate feasibility and accuracy of LAA measurements in VR for device sizing in patients planned for LAAC. Methods Twenty-one patients (79±7 years, 62% male) with non-valvular atrial fibrillation scheduled for LAAC were randomly included in our study. Preprocedural a multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) was performed for device sizing in all patients. MSCT-based 3D models were established and visualized in VR using a dedicated software (VMersive, Warsaw, Poland). LAA dimensions (Ostium, landing zone (LZ), and depth) were assessed directly in the virtual environment. Conventional measurements of LAA ostium, landing zone (LZ) and depth using commercially available software were compared to measurements in VR. Results 3D reconstruction of MSCT datasets and visualization in VR were successfully performed automatically in all patients within a few seconds. MSCT and VR demonstrated good correlations for ostium minimum (r = 0.93), maximum (r = 0.8) and mean (r = 0.88, all p<0.001) diameters. Additionally, LZ minimum (r=0.84), maximum (r=0.86) and mean (r=0.9) diameters showed good correlation (all p<0.001). Moderate correlation was observed for depth measurements (r=0.76, p<0.001). Furthermore, intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.88 to 0.98 denoted high inter- and intraobserver agreement. Conclusion Immersive VR allows highly feasible, accurate and reproducible measurements of the LAA dimensions directly in the virtual environment, hence enabling accurate device sizing for LAAC.

Quantifying phenotypic variability of indigenous chickens using morphometric traits by applying multivariate analysis: Input for sustainable rural chicken farming

Despite environmentally influenced performance traits in farm animals, variations in morphometric characters reflect unswerving genetic effects. In this study, body weight and body dimension measurements of indigenous chickens reared in four rural communities were investigated using multivariate statistical procedures to elucidate the existence of phenotypic variability between chicken populations. The study districts were selected based on higher indigenous chicken population, geographic distance, and agro-ecological distinctiveness. Eleven morphometric traits were measured on 1060 adult chickens from the districts. The results revealed that there were significant (p < 0.0001) variations between populations across districts. Significantly (P < 0.0001) higher mean values for morphometric traits were obtained in chickens reared in the Hula (highland district) than in those of the three districts. Likewise, multivariate discriminant analysis showed that most of the variables had significant power to differentiate the chicken populations into separate groups. Accordingly, three discriminant functions were extracted, of which the first two explained 95.6 % of the total variances in the populations. Moreover, in cluster analysis, chickens were differentiated into two sub-groups: Hula as a separate population, and Shebedino, Aleta Chuko and Boricha populations clustered together. Furthermore, the discriminant analysis correctly assigned 56.7 %, 55.1 %, 51.5 %, and 53.3 % to their source populations of Hula, Aleta Chuko, Shebedino, Hula, and Boricha, respectively, showing high mixing and mobility of chickens across neighboring districts. Therefore, this study confirmed the existence of significant morphometric variability between the studied populations, which could be used as a valuable source of information for selective breeding and sustainable use of indigenous chickens, particularly for rural farmers who almost rely on phenotypic features to select breeding stocks. In addition, the higher morphometric measurements shown for Hula chickens should be confirmed by on-station evaluation, and further molecular tools should be applied to validate the genetic distinctiveness of the studied chicken populations.

Accurate and efficient dimensional measurement technique based on point cloud models and its application in the automotive industry

Accurate and efficient dimensional measurement technique based on point cloud models and its application in the automotive industry

Evaluating small coronary stents with dual-source photon-counting computed tomography: effect of different scan modes on image quality and performance in a phantom.

The study aimed to assess the feasibility and image quality of dual-source photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) in evaluating small-sized coronary artery stents with respect to different acquisition modes in a phantom model. Utilizing a phantom setup mimicking the average patient's water-equivalent diameter, we examined six distinct coronary stents inflated in a silicon tube, with stent sizes ranging from 2.0 to 3.5 mm, applying four different CT acquisition modes of a dual-source PCD-CT scanner: "high-pitch," "sequential," "spiral" (each with collimation of 144 × 0.4 mm and full spectral information), and "ultra-high-resolution (UHR)" (collimation of 120 × 0.2 mm and no spectral information). Image quality and diagnostic confidence were assessed using subjective measures, including a 4-point visual grading scale (4 = excellent; 1 = non-diagnostic) utilized by two independent radiologists, and objective measures, including the full width at half maximum (FWHM). A total of 24 scans were acquired, and all were included in the analysis. Among all CT acquisition modes, the highest image quality was obtained for the UHR mode [median score: 4 (interquartile range (IQR): 3.67-4.00)] (P = 0.0015, with 37.5% rated as "excellent"), followed by the sequential mode [median score: 3.5 (IQR: 2.84-4.00)], P = 0.0326 and the spiral mode [median score: 3.0 (IQR: 2.53-3.47), P > 0.05]. The lowest image quality was observed for the high-pitch mode [median score: 2 (IQR: 1- 3), P = 0.028]. Similarly, diagnostic confidence for evaluating stent patency was highest for UHR and lowest for high-pitch (P < 0.001, respectively). Measurement of stent dimensions was accurate for all acquisition modes, with the UHR mode showing highest robustness (FWHM for sequential: 0.926 ± 0.061 vs. high-pitch: 0.990 ± 0.083 vs. spiral: 0.962 ± 0.085 vs. UHR: 0.941 ± 0.036, P = non-significant, respectively). Assessing small-sized coronary stents using PCD-CT technology is feasible. The UHR mode offers superior image quality and diagnostic confidence, while all modes show consistent and accurate measurements. These findings highlight the potential of PCD-CT technology, particularly the UHR mode, to enhance non-invasive coronary stent evaluation. Confirmatory research is necessary to influence the guidelines, which recommend cardiac CT only for stents of 3 mm or larger.

Automatic damage detection and segmentation using deep learning algorithms in reinforced concrete structure inspections

AbstractTraditional methods of detecting concrete damage, such as manual inspection, are typically slow, labor‐intensive, and subjective. Integrating deep learning algorithms has automated this process, representing a significant advance in building damage inspection. Semantic segmentation, a technique within deep learning, is increasingly recognized for its capability to identify the location and shape of concrete damage accurately. Unlike basic deep learning approaches like classification and object detection, semantic segmentation not only recognizes damage but also delineates its boundaries, and has great potential in facilitating dimension measurement. However, multi‐level, high‐precision detection for various structural damage assessments remains an area requiring further research. This study created a database of reinforced concrete surfaces with pixel‐level, multi‐category semantic segmentation annotations for various levels of component damage, including cracks and spalling of concrete, exposure, buckling, fracture of reinforcing bars, etc. The performance of advanced deep learning segmentation algorithms, including U‐Net, DeepLab, K‐Net, and FastSCNN, was consequently trained and evaluated in detecting various types of concrete damage. All models show good accuracy of more than 98%, but lower F1 scores around 70%. U‐Net and K‐Net demonstrate relatively stable performance, indicating a certain degree of consistency and a high‐performance peak. In contrast, DeepLabv3's F1 score fluctuates significantly, suggesting the model may suffer from overfitting or other stability issues during training, resulting in a relatively low average performance. FastSCNN exhibits the highest potential, achieving the highest F1 score. In addition, this study also tested the performance of each model on new damage images and explored the impact of the dataset proportion ratio (training set vs. validation set), contributing to providing insights into each algorithm's suitability for various inspection scenarios. Finally, perspectives on current challenges and future directions in the field have also been given.

Interior Profile Accuracy Assessment Method of Deep-Hole Parts Based on Servo Drive System.

Dimensional and profile measurements of deep-hole parts are key processes both in manufacturing and product lifecycle management. Due to the particularity of the space conditions of deep-hole parts, the existing measurement instruments and methods exhibit some limitations. Based on the multi-axis, highly precise servo drive system, a novel measuring device is developed. The laser displacement sensors are fed by the flux-switching permanent magnet linear motor, and the part is rotated by the servo motor. On this basis, the assessment methods of roundness, straightness, and cylindricity are proposed by employing the least square method (LSM). Additionally, considering the axial center deviation between the sensors and the part, the rotating center coordinate is optimized by the gradient descent algorithm (GDM). Then, the measurement system is constructed and the experiment study is conducted. The results indicate favorable evaluation error of the LSM fitting and GDM iteration. Compared with the coordinate measuring machine (CMM), the measured results show good consistency. In the error analysis, the angle positioning error of measured point is less than 0.01°, and the axial positioning error is less than 0.05 mm. The proposed system and assessment method are regarded as a feasible and promising solution for deep-hole part measurements.

Macrophage hyperfunction as a cellular trigger for fibroplastic changes in internal organs in pneumoconiosis among miners

Introduction. The significant prevalence of anthracosilicosis and silicosis, characterized by the rapid development of pneumofibrosis in coal mine workers, is a serious socially significant problem worldwide. A key component of the pathogenesis of pneumoconiosis is the macrophage reaction to fibrogenic dust, which is a complex immunological response, with prolonged and intense exposure leading to chronic inflammation in various organs and systems, fibrosis and a progressive decrease in their functions. A deep understanding and evaluation of the macrophage reaction as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of lung damage in miners will allow us to develop more effective strategies to combat dust damage to organs and systems. The study aims to consider macrophage hyperfunction as a trigger mechanism for fibroplastic changes in internal organs in pneumoconiosis in miners. Materials and methods. Using light microscopy, specialists conducted extended cytological, histological and immunohistochemical studies of bronchial smears and autopsy material (fragments of bronchi, lungs, heart, liver and kidneys) of 50 miners of Kuzbass coal enterprises who died simultaneously as a result of a man-made disaster. Morphometric analysis of histological structures with measurement of linear dimensions was used for a comprehensive assessment of pathomorphological changes. Results. There was a sharp increase in the number and size of actively phagocytic alveolar macrophages loaded with dust particles in the lungs of miners. Pathological changes in internal organs were characterized by pronounced fibrosis in the peribronchial and perivascular zones, stroma with deposition of dust particles and a pronounced macrophage reaction. In a group of miners with more than 15 years of experience in the central and distal parts of the lungs, in the intermuscular zones of the myocardium, the portal tracts of the liver, and the central segments of the kidneys, there was a constant increase in the expression of immunohistochemical markers CD14, CD34, actin and vimentin, which can be used as diagnostic markers for the identification of macrophage inflammation and fibrosis, will allow to assess the degree of severity of the pathological process. A characteristic feature of the miners' long experience of dust exposure was the presence of progressive pronounced perivascular sclerosis extending beyond the vascular histione. Experts found fibroblastic cells with positive expression of CD14, CD31 and CD34 in the sclerotic zones. Limitation. The absence of cytogenetic and electron microscopic examination, which is expected in the future in conjunction with the expansion of the range of immunohistochemical research methods. Conclusion. The results of extended pathomorphological and cytological studies emphasize the importance of an integrated approach to the diagnosis of occupational diseases in the coal industry. The use of a combination of these methods will allow timely detection of macrophage inflammation and fibrous process in dust pathology, specific changes at the cellular and tissue levels, as well as to assess the severity of the pathological process. Ethics. The study of autopsy material was based on a secondary examination of blocks and ready-made histological micro-preparations (glasses) of the material of the Bureau of Forensic Medical examination of Novokuznetsk, Osinniki, Prokopyevsk. The studies of pathomorphological material were carried out strictly on the basis of Federal Law No. 323-FZ dated 11/21/2011 "On the Basics of Protecting the Health of Citizens in the Russian Federation", in particular Article 67 "Conducting pathological anatomical autopsies", Federal Law No. 8-FZ dated 12.01.1996 "On Burial and Funeral Business" (Article 5, pp. 1, 2), as well as in accordance with the Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated 06.06.2013 No. 354n "On the procedure for conducting pathological anatomical autopsies", Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated 03/24/2016 No. 179n "On the Rules for conducting pathological anatomical studies".