Qualitative Image Analysis Research Articles

КОЛИЧЕСТВЕННЫЕ МЕТОДЫ В РОССИЙСКИХ ГЕОПОЛИТИЧЕСКИХ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯХ

The issue of the article is to acquaint researchers with new methods of studying geopolitics on a strict quantitative scientifically grounded basis. The relevance of this topic is confirmed by the general growth of interest in geopolitical topics in scientific publications, but for the most part these publications are characterized by speculative argumentation and a superficial vision of geographic space. The review article intends to systematize modern theoretical knowledge about geopolitics, to present domestic methodological developments in this area. In the 1990 s, there was a search for conceptual schemes for a quantitative or qualitative analysis of geopolitical relations and acquaintance with foreign trends in geopolitics and methods of argumentation. Since the 2000 s in the latest methodology of geopolitics, 4 generalized directions are distinguished: geopolitics in geographical interpretation, which considers geopolitical processes through the prism of objective spatial data, and uses the geographic scientific base and theories of domestic economic and theoretical geography in the argument, the second is the geo-economic branch, which is based on the achievements of economic science in the mathematization of scientific knowledge, the third is critical geopolitics, which implies a quantitative and qualitative analysis of political discourse, geopolitical images and ideas about the place of a country (region) in the world, the fourth is geopolitical mathematical modeling. In general, the identified areas are not opposed to each other, but have pronounced accents and their own pool of studies, recognized as «classical», included in the foundation of scientific constructions, and there is also an interpenetration and unification of methods for quantitative analysis of geopolitical studies. The article is addressed in order to consolidate knowledge about geopolitics, to interpenetrate the developed methods in this area and stimulate interdisciplinary approaches.

Comparison of multiphase data from CT perfusion vs clinical 4-phase CT scans with respect to image quality, lesion detection, and LI-RADS classification in HCC patients

PurposeThe aim of this study was to assess the image quality and diagnostic performance of reconstructed arterial (A) and portal venous (PV) phases in computed tomography perfusion (CTP) scans compared to the corresponding phases in standard 4-phase CT and to assess the utility for LI-RADS classification using CTP and 4-phase 4CT. MethodsA total of 26 scans with each method (CTP and 4-phase CT) from 19 hepatocellular carcinoma patients were analyzed and compared. Arterial and PV phases reconstructed by advanced modeled iterative reconstruction at strength 4 (ADMIRE 4) from raw CTP data were compared with image sets from arterial and PV phases of 4-phase CT (ADMIRE 3) in the same patient with respect to image quality. ResultsQuantitative image analysis showed that reconstructed CTP datasets were equivalent to 4-phase CT image sets. Qualitative image analysis revealed similar lesion detection rates with the 2 methods for patients with an abdominal diameter ≤36 cm and body weight <90 kg, but lower detection rates with CTP for patients with an abdominal diameter >37 cm. There was no difference in Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) classifications between the 2 methods. ConclusionReconstructed CTP images can potentially replace 4-phase CT images in patients weighing <90 kg and with a body diameter <37 cm, as the 2 methods are comparable in terms of quantitative image quality and ability to detect and classify lesions based on LI-RADS criteria.

Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Tumor Cell Invasion Using Au Clusters.

Tumor invasion/metastasis is still the major cause of death in cancer patients. Membrane type-1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) is directly related to tumor invasion/metastasis. To accurately and quickly distinguish the risk of invasion/metastasis of primary tumor cells, it is urgent to develop a simple and precise quantitative method to distinguish the expression level of MT1-MMP. In this work, we have constructed red fluorescent Au clusters with peroxidase-like properties that could specifically bind to MT1-MMP on human cervical cancer cells. After MT1-MMP was labelled with Au clusters, we could visually see red fluorescence of MT1-MMP on cervical cancer cells via fluorescence microscopy and catalytic color imaging using an ordinary optical microscope. The constructed Au clusters contained 26 Au atoms; thus, the amount of MT1-MMP on cervical cancer cells could be accurately quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). More importantly, the invasion/metastasis capabilities of the cervical cancer Siha, Caski and Hela cells with different MT1-MMP amounts could be accurately distinguished by fluorescence/catalysis qualitative imaging and ICP-MS quantitative analysis. This method of qualitative/quantitative analysis of tumor-associated proteins on cancer cells has great potential for accurately diagnosing aggressive tumor cells and assessment of their invasion/metastasis risk.

Images as Afro-positivist narratives and counter hegemonic strategy: A study of #TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou

To arrest the negative stereotypes of Africa in and outside the African continent, a number of civil society organizations and activists have launched various social media-assisted initiatives aimed at showcasing the positive facets of African cultures as well as the beautiful touristic attractions existing on the continent. One of such initiatives is the #TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou movement launched in 2015 to combat the negative and colonial stereotypes of Africa through the sharing of beautiful images and videos of Africa on Twitter. The movement encouraged Africans of all horizons to share attractive images of Africa, particularly the ones that are rarely or never shown on mainstream media. Six years after the project was launched, it is high time to evaluate its strength and know some of its merits and implications. In line with this aphorism, this paper uses secondary sources and a qualitative analysis of images and videos shared on Twitter to examine the contribution of the #TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou movement to the imperative of challenging colonial representations of Africa. It specifically discusses the genesis, trans-nationalization and promises of the project; and assesses the movement in the light of two philosophico-cultural currents/theories namely Afro-positivism and counter hegemony. The paper argues that the #TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou movement put to question the popular but problematic belief that Africa is all about negativisms. It started a visual-assisted conversation not only about the wonders found on African soil but also about some of the cultures which non-Africans have often viewed as problematic or controversial. Such a conversation is a proof that Afro-optimism is still much alive on the continent and that; Africans are conscious that the fight against colonial stereotypes is a perpetual battle which must be fought even with the help of new digital cultures such as digitalized image-based activism.

Impact of deep learning reconstruction on intracranial 1.5 T magnetic resonance angiography

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate whether deep learning reconstruction (DLR) improves the image quality of intracranial magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) at 1.5 T.Materials and methodsIn this retrospective study, MRA images of 40 patients (21 males and 19 females; mean age, 65.8 ± 13.2 years) were reconstructed with and without the DLR technique (DLR image and non-DLR image, respectively). Quantitative image analysis was performed by placing regions of interest on the basilar artery and cerebrospinal fluid in the prepontine cistern. We calculated the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for analyses of the basilar artery. Two experienced radiologists evaluated the depiction of structures (the right internal carotid artery, right ophthalmic artery, basilar artery, and right superior cerebellar artery), artifacts, subjective noise and overall image quality in a qualitative image analysis. Scores were compared in the quantitative and qualitative image analyses between the DLR and non-DLR images using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.ResultsThe SNR and CNR for the basilar artery were significantly higher for the DLR images than for the non-DLR images (p < 0.001). Qualitative image analysis scores (p < 0.003 and p < 0.005 for readers 1 and 2, respectively), excluding those for artifacts (p = 0.072–0.565), were also significantly higher for the DLR images than for the non-DLR images.ConclusionDLR enables the production of higher quality 1.5 T intracranial MRA images with improved visualization of arteries.

Impact of image averaging on vessel detection using optical coherence tomography angiography in eyes with macular oedema and in healthy eyes.

To assess the repeatability of multiple automatic vessel density (VD) measurements and the effect of image averaging on vessel detection by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). An observational study was conducted in a series of healthy volunteers and patients with macular oedema. Five sequential OCTA images were acquired for each eye using the OptoVue HD device. The effect of the averaging of the 5 acquisitions on vessel detection was analysed quantitatively using a pixel-by-pixel automated analysis. In addition, two independent retina experts qualitatively assessed the change in vessel detection in averaged images segmented in 9 boxes and compared to the first non-averaged image. The automatic VD measurement in OCTA images showed a good repeatability with an overall mean intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.924. The mean ICC was higher in healthy eyes compared to eyes with macular oedema (0.877 versus 0.960; p < 0.001) and in the superficial vascular plexus versus the deep vascular complex (0.967 versus 0.888; p = 0.001). The quantitative analysis of the effect of the averaging showed that averaged images had a mean gain of 790.4 pixels/box, located around or completing interruptions in the vessel walls, and a mean loss of 727.2 pixels/box. The qualitative analysis of the averaged images showed that 99.6% of boxes in the averaged images had a gain in vessel detection (i.e., vessels detected in the averaged image but not in the non-averaged image). The loss of pixels was due to a reduction in background noise and motion artifacts in all cases and no case of loss of vessel detection was observed. The automatic VD measurement using the OptoVue HD device showed a good repeatability in 5 acquisitions in a row setting. Averaging images increased vessel detection, and in about a third of boxes, decreased the background noise, both in healthy eyes and, in a greater proportion, in eyes with macular oedema.

Metal Artifact Reduction With Tin Prefiltration in Computed Tomography: A Cadaver Study for Comparison With Other Novel Techniques.

With the aging population and thus rising numbers of orthopedic implants (OIs), metal artifacts (MAs) increasingly pose a problem for computed tomography (CT) examinations. In the study presented here, different MA reduction techniques (iterative metal artifact reduction software [iMAR], tin prefilter technique, and dual-energy CT [DECT]) were compared. Four human cadaver pelvises with OIs were scanned on a third-generation DECT scanner using tin prefilter (Sn), dual-energy (DE), and conventional protocols. Virtual monoenergetic CT images were generated from DE data sets. Postprocessing of CT images was performed using iMAR. Qualitative (bony structures, MA, image noise) image analysis using a 6-point Likert scale and quantitative image analysis (contrast-to-noise ratio, standard deviation of background noise) were performed by 2 observers. Statistical testing was performed using Friedman test with Nemenyi test as a post hoc test. The iMAR Sn 150 kV protocol provided the best overall assessability of bony structures and the lowest subjective image noise. The iMAR DE protocol and virtual monochromatic image (VMI) ± iMAR achieved the most effective metal artifact reduction (MAR) (P < 0.05 compared with conventional protocols). Bony structures were rated worse in VMI ± iMAR (P < 0.05) than in tin prefilter protocols ± iMAR. The DE protocol ± iMAR had the lowest contrast-to-noise ratio (P < 0.05 compared with iMAR standard) and the highest image noise (P < 0.05 compared with iMAR VMI). The iMAR reduced MA very efficiently. When considering MAR and image quality, the iMAR Sn 150 kV protocol performed best overall in CT images with OI. The iMAR generated new artifacts that impaired image quality. The DECT/VMI reduced MA best, but experienced from a lack of resolution of bony fine structures.

Optimization of a\xa0protocol for contrast-enhanced four-dimensional computed tomography imaging of thoracic tumors using minimal contrast agent

PurposeThe accuracy of target delineation for node-positive thoracic tumors is dependent on both four-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT) and contrast-enhanced three-dimensional (3D)-CT images; these scans enable the motion visualization of tumors and delineate the nodal areas. Combining the two techniques would be more effective; however, currently, there is no standard protocol for the contrast media injection parameters for contrast-enhanced 4D-CT (CE-4D-CT) scans because of its long scan durations and complexity. Thus, we aimed to perform quantitative and qualitative assessments of the image quality of single contrast-enhanced 4D-CT scans to simplify this process and improve the accuracy of target delineation in order to replace the standard clinical modality involved in administering radiotherapy for thoracic tumors.MethodsNinety consecutive patients with thoracic tumors were randomly and parallelly assigned to one of nine subgroups subjected to CE-4D-CT scans with the administration of contrast agent volume equal to the patient’s weight but different flow rate and scan delay time (protocol A1: flow rate of 2.0 ml/s, delay time of 15 s; A2: 2.0 ml/s, 20 s; A3: 2.0 ml/s, 25 s; B1: 2.5 ml/s, 15 s; B2: 2.5 ml/s, 20 s; B3: 2.5 ml/s, 25 s; C1: 3.0 ml/s, 15 s; C2: 3.0 ml/s, 20 s; C3: 3.0 ml/s, 25 s). The Hounsfield unit (HU) values of the thoracic aorta, pulmonary artery stem, pulmonary veins, carotid artery, and jugular vein were acquired for each protocol. Both quantitative and qualitative image analysis and delineation acceptability were assessed.ResultsThe results revealed significant differences among the nine protocols. Enhancement of the vascular structures in mediastinal and perihilar regions was more effective with protocol A1 or A2; however, when interested in the region of superior mediastinum and supraclavicular fossa, protocol C2 or C3 is recommended.ConclusionQualitatively acceptable enhancement on contrast-enhanced 4D-CT images of thoracic tumors can be obtained by varying the flow rate and delay time when minimal contrast agent is used.

Hourglass-Like Constriction Neuropathy of the Upper Limb Nerve: Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Neurography Imaging Findings.

The purposes of this study were to determine reliable diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance neurography (DW-MRN) features of hourglass-like constriction of the upper limb nerve and to evaluate the application value of DW-MRN compared with ultrasonography (US). We retrospectively reviewed MRN studies of 13 patients. Qualitative and quantitative image analyses were carried out. The number of constrictions based on DW-MRN and US findings was compared. Of the 13 cases, there were 7 cases with radial nerve abnormalities, 4 with median nerve abnormalities, and 2 with radial and median nerve abnormalities. Diffusion-weighted MRN showed a single-segmental constriction in 7 of 13 cases and multisegmental constrictions in 6 of 13 cases; the hourglass-like constriction appeared in all cases (13 of 13). Thirty-three nerve constrictions were found in DW-MRN, and 29 nerve constrictions were found in US. Diffusion-weighted MRN is a noninvasive and helpful diagnostic for hourglass-like constriction of the upper limb nerve.

The effect of commercial herbal toothpastes on dental wear: a comparative evaluation by Optical coherence tomography

The purpose of this study was to compare the tooth wear in function of the use of different commercial herbal toothpastes through the analysis of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Twenty bovine teeth were obtained and distributed in 4 groups (n = 5) according to the dentifrice used: G1: Captive Nature (Chamomile, Xylitol, Juá and Salvia); G2: Suavetex Content (Turmeric); G3: Colgate Triple Action (positive control); G4: distilled water (negative control). The samples were painted in the half of the fragment with nail polish so that only half of the fragment was brushed. The simulated brushing (20,000 cycles) was performed with linear movements, under static axial load of 200g and speed of 4.5 cycles per second. After this step, an analysis was performed through OCT and and the images obtained were evaluated to identify possible changes in the specimen surface. According to the qualitative analysis of the OCT images, enamel wear was not observed, since all measurements were null. Regarding the evaluation of dentin, surface wear was observed in all groups except G4, but G3 had the highest number of samples with surface wear around 21.32%. All dentifrices had abrasive wear on the dentin surface to a greater or lesser extent, but there was no wear on the enamel surface.

123I-Ioflupane SPECT and 18F-FDG PET Combined Use in the Characterization of Movement and Cognitive Associated Disorders in Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Both movement (MD) and cognitive (CD) disorders can occur associated in some neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). We further investigated the usefulness of 123I-Ioflupane SPECT and 18F-FDG PET combined use in patients with these disorders in the early stage. We retrospectively enrolled twenty-five consecutive patients with MD and CD clinical symptoms of recent appearance. All patients had undergone neurologic examination, neuropsychological tests, and magnetic resonance imaging. 123I-Ioflupane SPECT was performed in all cases, followed by 18F-FDG PET two weeks later. In the two procedures, both qualitative (QL) and quantitative (QN) image analyses were determined. In patients with both 123I-Ioflupane SPECT and 18F-FDG PET pathologic data, associated dopaminergic and cognitive impairments were confirmed in 56% of cases. Pathologic SPECT with normal PET in 16% of cases could diagnose MD and exclude an associated CD, despite clinical symptoms. On the contrary, normal SPECT with pathologic PET in 28% of cases could exclude basal ganglia damage while confirming CD. QN 123I-Ioflupane SPECT analysis showed better performance than QL since QN correctly characterized two cases of MD with normal QL. Moreover, correct classification of normal metabolism was made only by QN analysis of 18F-FDG PET in four cases, despite suspect areas of hypometabolism at QL. The combined use of these imaging procedures proved a reliable diagnostic tool to accurately identify and characterize MD and CD in early stage. QN analysis was effective in supporting QL evaluation, and its routine use is suggested, especially with inconclusive QL.

The impact of mental models on the treatment and research of chronic infections due to biofilms.

Research on biofilms is predominantly made ininvitrocontexts. However, invivoobservation of biofilms in human chronic infections shows distinct differences compared toinvitrobiofilm growth.This could imply the use of an inadequate mental model both in research and healthcare practices. Drawing on knowledge from the cognitive sciences, we hypothesise that the predominance of invitro research on biofilms is skewed towards a mental model promoting wrong inferences for researchers and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the invivo context. To explore the prevalence of such a mental model, we carried out a qualitative image analysis in which biofilm illustrations from a Google image search were coded for typical invitro or invivo characteristics. Further, to investigate potential misinformed and unhelpful clinical interventions related to biofilms, we conducted a quantitative questionnaire among HCPs. The questions were designed to test whether knowledge about invitro biofilms was used in an invivo context. This questionnaire was analysed through a chi-squared test. Most biofilm illustrations were consistent with the invitro model. A statistical analysis of survey responses revealed that HCPs have adequate knowledge about biofilm but often respond incorrectly when asked to apply their knowledge to invivo contexts. The outcome of this research points to a prevalent and consolidated mental model derived from invitro observations. This model has likely been made dominant by HCPs' frequent exposure to visual depictions in articles and presentations. The prevalence of the invitro model sets up the possibility of erroneous claims when the invitro model is inadequately applied to invivo contexts. This has potential implications for HCPs working in fields involving biofilm, such as wound care treatment.

Dilated densely connected U-Net with uncertainty focus loss for 3D ABUS mass segmentation

Background and objectiveAccurate segmentation of breast mass in 3D automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) images plays an important role in qualitative and quantitative ABUS image analysis. Yet this task is challenging due to the low signal to noise ratio and serious artifacts in ABUS images, the large shape and size variation of breast masses, as well as the small training dataset compared with natural images. The purpose of this study is to address these difficulties by designing a dilated densely connected U-Net (D2U-Net) together with an uncertainty focus loss. MethodsA lightweight yet effective densely connected segmentation network is constructed to extensively explore feature representations in the small ABUS dataset. In order to deal with the high variation in shape and size of breast masses, a set of hybrid dilated convolutions is integrated into the dense blocks of the D2U-Net. We further suggest an uncertainty focus loss to put more attention on unreliable network predictions, especially the ambiguous mass boundaries caused by low signal to noise ratio and artifacts. Our segmentation algorithm is evaluated on an ABUS dataset of 170 volumes from 107 patients. Ablation analysis and comparison with existing methods are conduct to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. ResultsExperiment results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms existing methods on 3D ABUS mass segmentation tasks, with Dice similarity coefficient, Jaccard index and 95% Hausdorff distance of 69.02%, 56.61% and 4.92 mm, respectively. ConclusionsThe proposed method is effective in segmenting breast masses on our small ABUS dataset, especially breast masses with large shape and size variations.

Commodification of Urban Space and the Image of ‘New’ Istanbul

This study aims to identify the urban transformation strategy implemented in Istanbul for the last 15 years as a tool to promote the ‘new’ city discourse. This marking strategy leads to a thoroughly manipulated or re-written urban texture, constructed through concepts of identity, context and historicism. By decoding its actors, their roles, and branding images of five selected urban projects which relied on a top-down approach, the research exposes the implicit and explicit targets behind the political discourse of ‘new’ İstanbul. Through a qualitative content analysis of branding images and promotional media, the research focuses on the unseen agenda of the governing authority concerning the urban image and the state economy, which, on the contrary, undermines legitimate laws covering disaster mitigation. The conceptual framework of the study draws on Tafuri’s (1969) seminal article "Toward a Critique of Architectural Ideology" to deepen our examination of the leading forces of urban ideology that are reshaping the city. The article aims to spark a debate over the ‘new’ Istanbul discourse and its planning practices through its re-reading of urban projects, the field of architecture and planning, development strategies, and their relevant actors.

Commodification of Urban Space and the Image of ‘New’ Istanbul: Decoding the prevailing discourse

This study aims to identify the urban transformation strategy implemented in Istanbul for the last 15 years as a tool to promote the ‘new’ city discourse. This marking strategy leads to a thoroughly manipulated or re-written urban texture, constructed through concepts of identity, context and historicism. By decoding its actors, their roles, and branding images of five selected urban projects which relied on a top-down approach, the research exposes the implicit and explicit targets behind the political discourse of ‘new’ İstanbul. Through a qualitative content analysis of branding images and promotional media, the research focuses on the unseen agenda of the governing authority concerning the urban image and the state economy, which, on the contrary, undermines legitimate laws covering disaster mitigation. The conceptual framework of the study draws on Tafuri’s (1969) seminal article "Toward a Critique of Architectural Ideology" to deepen our examination of the leading forces of urban ideology that are reshaping the city. The article aims to spark a debate over the ‘new’ Istanbul discourse and its planning practices through its re-reading of urban projects, the field of architecture and planning, development strategies, and their relevant actors.

Comparison of maximum likelihood and conventional PET scatter scaling methods for 18 F-FDG and 68 Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT.

We aim to quantify differences between a new maximum likelihood (ML) background scaling (MLBS) algorithm and two conventional scatter scaling methods for clinical PET/CT. A common source of reduced image quantification with conventional scatter corrections is attributed to erroneous scaling of the initial scatter estimate to match acquired scattered events in the sinogram. MLBS may have performance advantages over conventional methods by using all available data intersecting the subject. A retrospective analysis was performed on subjects injected with 18 F-FDG (N=71) and 68 Ga-DOTATATE (N=11) and imaged using time-of-flight (TOF) PET/CT. The scatter distribution was estimated with single scatter simulation approaches. Conventional scaling algorithms included (a) tail fitted background scaling (TFBS), which scales the scatter to "tails" outside the emission support, and (b) absolute scatter correction (ABS), which utilizes the simulated scatter distribution with no scaling applied. MLBS consisted of an alternating iterative reconstruction with a TOF-based ML activity image update allowing negative values (NEG-ML) and nested loop ML scatter scaling estimation. Scatter corrections were compared using reconstructed images as follows: (a) normalized relative difference images were generated and used for voxel-wise analysis, (b) liver and suspected lesion ROIs were drawn to compute mean SUVs, and (c) a qualitative analysis of overall diagnostic image quality, impact of artifacts, and lesion conspicuity was performed. Absolute quantification and normalized relative differences were also assessed with an 18 F-FDG phantom study. For human subjects 18 F-FDG data, Bland-Altman plots demonstrated that the largest normalized voxel-wise differences were observed close to the lower limit (SUV=1.0). MLBS reconstructions trended towards higher scatter fractions compared to TFBS and ABS images, with median voxel differences across all subjects for TFBS-MLBS measured at 1.7% and 7.6% for 18 F-FDG and 68 Ga-DOTATATE, respectively. For mean SUV analysis, there was a high degree of correlation between the scatter corrections. For 18 F-FDG, ABS scatter correction reconstructions trended towards higher liver mean SUVs relative to MLBS. The qualitative image analysis revealed no significant differences between TFBS and MLBS image reconstructions. For a uniformly filled relatively large 37cm diameter phantom, MLBS produced the lowest bias in absolute quantification, while normalized voxel-wise differences showed a trend in scatter correction performance consistent with the human subjects study. For 18 F-FDG, MLBS is at least a valid substitute to TFBS, providing reconstructed image performance comparable to TFBS in most subjects but exhibiting quantitative differences in cases where TFBS is typically prone to inaccuracies (e.g., due to patient motion and CT-based attenuation map truncation). Particularly for low contrast regions, quantification differs for ABS compared to MLBS and TFBS, and caution should be taken when utilizing ABS for decision-making based on quantitative metrics.

Influence of pyrolysis and Silicon infiltration on the properties of CMC parts shaped by composite flow molding

AbstractThis paper investigates the influence of thermal process parameters on the mechanical properties and final microstructure of SiC‐based ceramic matrix composites parts shaped by composite flow molding, and converted into ceramics by pyrolysis and reactive silicon melt infiltration. Green composite parts consisted of a thermoplastic matrix (PEEK) reinforced with continuous carbon fibers. Parts were pyrolyzed between 960°C and 2000°C and subsequently Si infiltrated between 1600°C and 1800°C, with a dwell time of 1 to 3 h. An experimental plan was defined following a design of experiment (DOE) approach. At high pyrolysis and infiltration temperatures, samples show higher modulus of rupture (280 MPa) and flexural modulus (158 GPa). A qualitative image analysis was adopted to estimate the CMC composition. A predictive model allowing the estimation of the composite toughness as a function of the significant process parameters was derived by applying the DOE methodology and the analysis of variances. The model is based on the observed correlations between the process parameters and their influence on the material property of interest. The most influential parameters are the silicon infiltration temperature and the dwell time. This is due to their control over the reaction kinetics between C and Si to obtain SiC.

Film Review: Qualitative Analysis of Meaningful Male Relational Images in Falling Down

ABSTRACT Relational cultural therapy tenets are based on feminist theory but can be used with male clients using cinematherapy. Falling Down, a movie about a middle-aged man in crisis during times of social upheaval in Los Angeles, is examined for the main relational images and their influence on the central relational paradox through narrative qualitative analysis. Codes for visual, auditory, and somatosensory aspects were applied and the frequency of co-occurrences calculated. “Home” was found to be the most significant relational image among the main male characters ensuing from the central relational paradox. The study shows how relational images can be examined and be applied in cinematherapy with male clients.

Introduction of Glass as Fenestration in 19th Century Lagos, Nigeria: A Brief History

While glass as a material has been known to the people of western Nigerian for hundreds of years, it was only in the late 19th century that it became integrated into building and construction practice in Lagos. For the most part, early local architecture made little effort, if any at all, at covering window spaces with any material of permanence as the primary purpose of these orifices was more to let air in rather than light. Early European missionaries and colonial agents saw the situation differently. Their horrid fear for tropical bugs and matters of security and privacy necessitated a response and modification to the philosophy of tropical architecture. Using qualitative methods and visual analysis of archival images, this study takes a historical look at the beginnings of the integration and use of glass as fenestration and argues that so significant was the introduction in the late 19th and early 20th century in Lagos, that the innovation re-engineered the culture of architecture and living as we know it. The study identified the first building in Lagos to use glass as fenestration and discusses the role of missionaries in the development of innovation. It argues that missionary activity in the coastal city of Lagos, created a broad new industry and trade opportunities and concludes that the introduction of glass as a building material in 19th century Lagos, was not a mere development, but a significant innovation, both in construction and creativity.

Correlation between severity of spinal stenosis and multifidus atrophy in degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis

BackgroundDegenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS) is a common degenerative condition in older adults. Muscle atrophy (MA) is a leading cause of muscle weakness and disability commonly reported in individuals with spinal stenosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate if the MA correlates with the grade of spinal stenosis in patients with DLSS.MethodsA retrospective analysis on 48 male and 184 female DLSS patients aged around 54.04 years (54.04 ± 8.93) were involved and divided into 6 groups according to claudication-distance-based grading of spinal stenosis, which confirmed by two independent orthopedic surgeons using T2- weighted images. Using 1.5T MRI scanner, the severity of MA is assessed based on its negative correlation with the ratio of total fat-free multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (TFCSA) to total multifidus muscle cross-sectional area (TCSA). Adobe Photoshop CS6 was used for qualitative image analysis and calculate the TFCSA/TCSA ratio to assess the severity of MA, compare the grade of MA with the spinal stenosis segment, stenosis grade and symptom side.ResultsIn DLSS group, The TFCSA/TCSA ratio are 74.33 ± 2.18 in L3/4 stenosis, 75.51 ± 2.79 in L4/5 stenosis, and 75.49 ± 2.69 in L5/S1 stenosis. there were significant decreases in the TFCSA/TCSA ratio of stenotic segments compared with non-stenotic segments of the spinal canal (P < 0.05) while no significant difference between the non-stenotic segments (P > 0.05). TFCSA/TCSA ratios is significant differences in the TFCSA/TCSA ratios of the 6 DLSS groups (F = 67.832; P < 0.05). From Group 1 to Group 6, the TFCSA/TCSA ratio of stenotic segments positively correlated with the absolute claudication distance (ACD). (P < 0.001, r = 0.852). Besides, the TFCSA/TCSA ratios are smaller in the symptomatic sides of the spine than the contralateral sides (t = 4.128, P = 0.001).ConclusionsThe stenotic segments of the spinal canal are more atrophied than the non-stenotic segment in DLSS patients. It is shows that a strong positive correlation between the severity of multifidus atrophy and the severity of spinal stenosis.