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  1. Lim WX, Chen Z
    Med Biol Eng Comput, 2024 Aug;62(8):2571-2583.
    PMID: 38649629 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-024-03093-0
    Diabetic retinopathy disease contains lesions (e.g., exudates, hemorrhages, and microaneurysms) that are minute to the naked eye. Determining the lesions at pixel level poses a challenge as each pixel does not reflect any semantic entities. Furthermore, the computational cost of inspecting each pixel is expensive because the number of pixels is high even at low resolution. In this work, we propose a hybrid image processing method. Simple Linear Iterative Clustering with Gaussian Filter (SLIC-G) for the purpose of overcoming pixel constraints. The SLIC-G image processing method is divided into two stages: (1) simple linear iterative clustering superpixel segmentation and (2) Gaussian smoothing operation. In such a way, a large number of new transformed datasets are generated and then used for model training. Finally, two performance evaluation metrics that are suitable for imbalanced diabetic retinopathy datasets were used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed SLIC-G. The results indicate that, in comparison to prior published works' results, the proposed SLIC-G shows better performance on image classification of class imbalanced diabetic retinopathy datasets. This research reveals the importance of image processing and how it influences the performance of deep learning networks. The proposed SLIC-G enhances pre-trained network performance by eliminating the local redundancy of an image, which preserves local structures, but avoids over-segmented, noisy clips. It closes the research gap by introducing the use of superpixel segmentation and Gaussian smoothing operation as image processing methods in diabetic retinopathy-related tasks.
    Matched MeSH terms: Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/methods; Photography/methods
  2. Khairudin MN, Vallikkannu N, Gan F, Hamdan M, Tan PC
    Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM, 2024 Apr;6(4):101324.
    PMID: 38447674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2024.101324
    BACKGROUND: Labor pain varies significantly among pregnant women, ranging from mild to extremely distressing. Nonpharmacologic pain relief methods during vaginal birth are increasingly popular, either as a complement to pharmacologic agents or, at times, as the primary method of pain relief. Multiple trials have reported that manual or by-hand massage reduces labor pain. The effectiveness of full-body mechanical massage using electric massage chairs on labor pain remains unexplored.

    OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate mechanical massage using an electric massage chair on labor pain in nulliparous women.

    STUDY DESIGN: A randomized counterbalanced crossover trial was conducted in a university hospital in Malaysia from August 2022 to February 2023. Eligible nulliparas in labor with a minimum labor pain score of 5 (0-10 numerical rating scale) were enrolled. Participants were randomized to 30 minutes on the massage chair with mechanical massage followed by 30 minutes on the massage chair without mechanical massage or the other way around in the massage sequence. The primary outcome was a change in pain score comparing pain with and without mechanical massage as a paired comparison for the entire trial participants. The secondary outcomes were across arms analyses of maternal and neonatal outcomes. The paired t test, t test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test, and Fisher exact test were used as appropriate for the data.

    RESULTS: Overall, 208 women were randomized: 104 to each intervention. Data were available from 204 participants (103 randomized to massage first and 101 to no massage first). The primary outcomes of change in labor pain scores (0-10 numerical rating scale) after massage and no massage (all participants included after crossover, paired t test analysis) were 4.51±2.30 and 5.38±2.10, respectively (mean difference, -0.87; 95% confidence interval, -1.14 to -0.59; P

    Matched MeSH terms: Pain Measurement/methods; Pain Management/methods
  3. Abouammo MD, Narayanan MS, Alsavaf MB, Alwabili M, Gosal JS, Bhuskute GS, et al.
    Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown), 2024 Sep 01;27(3):347-356.
    PMID: 38506519 DOI: 10.1227/ons.0000000000001119
    BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Expanded endonasal approaches (EEAs) have proven safe and effective in treating select petrous apex (PA) pathologies. Angled endoscopes and instruments have expanded indications for such approaches; however, the complex neurovascular anatomy surrounding the petrous region remains a significant challenge. This study evaluates the feasibility, anatomic aspects, and limitations of a contralateral nasofrontal trephination (CNT) route as a complementary corridor improving access to the PA.

    METHODS: Expanded endonasal and CNT approaches to the PA were carried out bilaterally in 15 cadaveric heads with endovascular latex injections. The distance to the PA, angle between instruments through the 2 approach portals, and surgical freedom were measured and compared.

    RESULTS: Three-dimensional DICOM-based modeling and visualization indicate that the CNT route reduces the distance to the target located within the contralateral PA by an average of 3.33 cm (19%) and affords a significant increase in the angle between instruments (15.60°; 54%). Furthermore, the vertical vector of approach is improved by 28.97° yielding a caudal reach advantage of 2 cm. The area of surgical freedom afforded by 3 different approaches (endonasal, endonasal with an endoscope in CNT portal, and endonasal with an instrument in CNT portal) was compared at 4 points: the dural exit point of the 6th cranial nerve, jugular foramen, foramen lacerum, and petroclival fissure. The mean area of surgical freedom provided by both approaches incorporating the CNT corridor was superior to EEA alone at each of the surgical targets ( P =

    Matched MeSH terms: Trephining/methods; Neurosurgical Procedures/methods
  4. Soo CI, Huan NC, Kho SS
    Med J Malaysia, 2024 Jul;79(4):490-493.
    PMID: 39086350
    Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is commonly used to diagnose and stage lung cancer. In clinical practice, cytology specimens from EBUS-TBNA may be low in cellularity, especially with necrotic lesions. Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial mediastinal cryobiopsy (EBUS-TBMC) has recently become the preferred method for obtaining histology biopsy. This retrospective cohort study analysed the first 30 patients who have undergone EBUS-TBMC in a tertiary centre in Malaysia. EBUS-TBMC demonstrated a high diagnostic yield and good safety profile. All the samples obtained were adequate for the detection of driver alteration by next-generation sequencing.
    Matched MeSH terms: Bronchoscopy/methods; Cryosurgery/methods
  5. Dhivagar R, Suraparaju SK, Atamurotov F, Kannan KG, Opakhai S, Omara AAM
    Water Sci Technol, 2024 Jun;89(12):3325-3343.
    PMID: 39150427 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2024.189
    In this current investigation, the experimental performance of a solar still basin was significantly enhanced by incorporating snail shell biomaterials. The outcomes of the snail shell-augmented solar still basin (SSSS) are compared with those of a conventional solar still (CSS). The utilization of snail shells proved to facilitate the reduction of saline water and enhance its temperature, thereby improving the productivity of the SSSS. Cumulatively, the SSSS productivity was improved by 4.3% over CSS. Furthermore, the SSSS outperformed in energy and exergy efficiency of CSS by 4.5 and 3.5%, respectively. Economically, the cost per liter of distillate (CPL) for the CSS was 3.4% higher than SSSS. Moreover, the SSSS showed a shorter estimated payback period (PBP) of 141 days which was 6 days less than CSS. Considering the environmental impact, the observed CO2 emissions from the SSSS were approximately 14.6% higher than CSS over its 10-year lifespan. Notably, the SSSS exhibited a substantial increase in the estimated carbon credit earned (CCE) compared to the CSS. Ultimately, the research underscores the efficacy of incorporating snail shells into solar still basins as a commendable approach to organic waste management, offering economic benefits without compromising environmental considerations.
    Matched MeSH terms: Conservation of Natural Resources/methods; Water Purification/methods
  6. Minaguchi K, Samejima M, Nambiar P, Kaneko Y, Ochiai E, Kakimoto Y, et al.
    Leg Med (Tokyo), 2024 Sep;70:102463.
    PMID: 38823287 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2024.102463
    Closely linked groups of markers on the X chromosome are very useful for testing complex kinship relationships involving X-STR transmission. The Argus X-12 kit, a unique commercially available kit, can obtain haplotypes of 4 linkage groups (LGs) consisting of 3 markers. Although many population data have been reported for forensic purposes, differences in discrimination ability exist between LG1 and LG2, 3, and 4 in East Asian populations, and the data of this kit would become more useful if the discrimination ability of the latter groups were increased. Therefore, for matches found using this kit for some linkage group data, then to increase the identification ability, we additionally introduced 13 X-STR loci and established a method allowing comparison using data from 25 loci. The 13X-STRs add two locus data to each of LG2, 3, and 4, and also add two closely linked group (CLG) data between LG2 and 3 and LG3 and 4 in one multiplex PCR. Assessment of this method for a Malay population for which data by Argus X-12 had already been reported showed that the frequencies of distinct haplotypes in LG2, 3, and 4 were increased by 33.0-42.6 %, and frequencies of unique haplotypes increased by 45.4-59.2 %. The respective haplotype diversity values of the additional 3-locus and 4-locus CLGs were 0.9838 and 0.9939, which helps to improve discriminatory power and to predict recombination locations on the X chromosome. Although we have been testing these loci with Japanese subjects, this system would also be useful for the Malay population.
    Matched MeSH terms: DNA Fingerprinting/methods; Forensic Genetics/methods
  7. Phang LY, Mingyuan L, Mohammadi M, Tee CS, Yuswan MH, Cheng WH, et al.
    Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 2024 Aug;31(38):50126-50141.
    PMID: 39103580 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34585-z
    Phytoremediation is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional remediation technologies, notably for soil restoration and agricultural sustainability. This strategy makes use of marginal areas, incorporates biofortification processes, and expands crop alternatives. The ecological and economic benefits of phytoremediation are highlighted in this review. Native plant species provide cost-effective advantages and lower risks, while using invasive species to purify pollutants might be a potential solution to the dilemma of not removing them from the new habitat. Thus, strict management measures should be used to prevent the overgrowth of invasive species. The superior advantages of phytoremediation, including psychological and social improvements, make it a powerful tool for both successful cleanup and community well-being. Its ability to generate renewable biomass and adapt to a variety of uses strengthens its position in developing the bio-based economy. However, phytoremediation faces severe difficulties such as complex site circumstances and stakeholder doubts. Overcoming these challenges necessitates a comprehensive approach that balances economic viability, environmental protection, and community welfare. Incorporating regulatory standards such as ASTM and ISO demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental sustainability, while also providing advice for unique nation-specific requirements. Finally, phytoremediation may contribute to a pleasant coexistence of human activity and the environment by navigating hurdles and embracing innovation.
    Matched MeSH terms: Agriculture/methods; Environmental Restoration and Remediation/methods
  8. Al-Shadidi JRMH, Al-Shammari S, Al-Mutairi D, Alkhudhair D, Thu HE, Hussain Z
    Int J Nanomedicine, 2024;19:8373-8400.
    PMID: 39161363 DOI: 10.2147/IJN.S472433
    Despite all major advancements in drug discovery and development in the pharmaceutical industry, cancer is still one of the most arduous challenges for the scientific community. The implications of nanotechnology have certainly resolved major issues related to conventional anticancer modalities; however, the undesired recognition of nanoparticles (NPs) by the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS), their poor stability in biological fluids, premature release of payload, and low biocompatibility have restricted their clinical translation. In recent decades, chitosan (CS)-based nanodelivery systems (eg, polymeric NPs, micelles, liposomes, dendrimers, conjugates, solid lipid nanoparticles, etc.) have attained promising recognition from researchers for improving the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of chemotherapeutics. However, the specialty of this review is to mainly focus on and critically discuss the targeting potential of various CS-based NPs for treatment of different types of cancer. Based on their delivery mechanisms, we classified CS-based NPs into stimuli-responsive, passive, or active targeting nanosystems. Moreover, various functionalization strategies (eg, grafting with polyethylene glycol (PEG), hydrophobic substitution, tethering of stimuli-responsive linkers, and conjugation of targeting ligands) adapted to the architecture of CS-NPs for target-specific delivery of chemotherapeutics have also been considered. Nevertheless, CS-NPs based therapeutics hold great promise for improving therapeutic outcomes while mitigating the off-target effects of chemotherapeutics, a long-term safety profile and clinical testing in humans are warranted for their successful clinical translation.
    Matched MeSH terms: Drug Delivery Systems/methods; Nanomedicine/methods
  9. Tsan SEH, Ng KT, Lau J, Viknaswaran NL, Wang CY
    Braz J Anesthesiol, 2020;70(6):667-677.
    PMID: 33288219 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjan.2020.08.009
    OBJECTIVES: Positioning during endotracheal intubation (ETI) is critical to ensure its success. We aimed to determine if the ramping position improved laryngeal exposure and first attempt success at intubation when compared to the sniffing position.

    METHODS: PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched systematically from inception until January 2020. Our primary outcomes included laryngeal exposure as measured by Cormack-Lehane Grade 1 or 2 (CLG 1/2), CLG 3 or 4 (CLG 3/4), and first attempt success at intubation. Secondary outcomes were intubation time, use of airway adjuncts, ancillary maneuvers, and complications during ETI.

    RESULTS: Seven studies met our inclusion criteria, of which 4 were RCTs and 3 were cohort studies. The meta-analysis was conducted by pooling the effect estimates for all 4 included RCTs (n = 632). There were no differences found between ramping and sniffing positions for odds of CLG 1/2, CLG 3/4, first attempt success at intubation, intubation time, use of ancillary airway maneuvers, and use of airway adjuncts, with evidence of high heterogeneity across studies. However, the ramping position in surgical patients is associated with increased likelihood of CLG 1/2 (OR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.26 to 3.32, p = 0.004) and lower likelihood of CLG 3/4 (OR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.79, p = 0.004), moderate quality of evidence.

    CONCLUSION: Our meta-analysis demonstrated that the ramping position may benefit surgical patients undergoing ETI by improving laryngeal exposure. Large scale well designed multicentre RCTs should be carried out to further elucidate the benefits of the ramping position in the surgical and intensive care unit patients.

    Matched MeSH terms: Intubation, Intratracheal/methods*; Patient Positioning/methods*
  10. Xin Z, Du Y, Zhang C, Zhang B, Qi M, Meng H, et al.
    J Neurosurg Spine, 2024 Sep 01;41(3):407-415.
    PMID: 38848604 DOI: 10.3171/2024.3.SPINE231161
    OBJECTIVE: Intraspinal cysts are uncommon, and the success rate of complete resection is still low for spinal neurenteric cysts (NCs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacies of an anterior microscopic surgical approach in the treatment of ventral and ventrolateral subaxial cervical NCs (SCNCs).

    METHODS: Between 2019 and 2022, 9 patients with NCs of the subaxial spine underwent an anterior microsurgical approach. Their clinical presentations, radiological features, operative findings, and follow-up data were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed.

    RESULTS: All spinal cysts were intradural and extramedullary in origin. Five patients were first-time cases while 4 patients with recurrence underwent revision surgery. The most common clinical manifestation was pain (77.78%). One patient was found to have a concomitant disorder of Klippel-Feil syndrome. Microscopically confirmed gross-total resection was achieved in 8 patients (88.89%) based on clinical comparisons between pre- and postoperative MRI and intraoperative video. One patient had symptom recurrence 1 year after subtotal resection, while there was no evidence of recurrence during follow-up for the other patients. Dense adhesions within the spinal cord were observed in 8 patients (88.89%) intraoperatively. Most importantly, the surgical outcome was significantly improved in all patients, and the mean (± SE) Japanese Orthopaedic Association score increased from 11.33 ± 0.91 preoperatively to 16.22 ± 0.32 postoperatively (p = 0.008).

    CONCLUSIONS: An anterior surgical approach was proven to be both safe and effective in treating the ventral or ventrolateral SCNCs. The authors believe that an anterior microsurgical approach should be considered as a useful approach especially in patients with ventral recurrent SCNCs. Its clinical efficacy compared with a posterior approach in ventral spinal cyst may be better as most of the neurenteric cysts are ventrally or ventrolaterally located.

    Matched MeSH terms: Microsurgery/methods; Neurosurgical Procedures/methods
  11. Patil J, Pawde DM, Bhattacharya S, Srivastava S
    AAPS PharmSciTech, 2024 Apr 25;25(5):91.
    PMID: 38664316 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02813-x
    Addressing poor solubility and permeability issues associated with synthetic drugs and naturally occurring active compounds is crucial for improving bioavailability. This review explores the potential of phospholipid complex formulation technology to overcome these challenges. Phospholipids, as endogenous molecules, offer a viable solution, with drugs complexed with phospholipids demonstrating a similar absorption mechanism. The non-toxic and biodegradable nature of the phospholipid complex positions it as an ideal candidate for drug delivery. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the mechanisms underlying phospholipid complexes. Special emphasis is placed on the solvent evaporation method, with meticulous scrutiny of formulation aspects such as the phospholipid ratio to the drug and solvent. Characterization techniques are employed to understand structural and functional attributes. Highlighting the adaptability of the phospholipid complex, the review discusses the loading of various nanoformulations and emulsion systems. These strategies aim to enhance drug delivery and efficacy in various malignancies, including breast, liver, lung, cervical, and pancreatic cancers. The broader application of the drug phospholipid complex is showcased, emphasizing its adaptability in diverse oncological settings. The review not only explores the mechanisms and formulation aspects of phospholipid complexes but also provides an overview of key clinical studies and patents. These insights contribute to the intellectual and translational advancements in drug phospholipid complexes.
    Matched MeSH terms: Chemistry, Pharmaceutical/methods; Drug Compounding/methods
  12. Al-Bayaty FH, Kamaruddin AA, Ismail MA, Al-Obaidi MMJ
    Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J, 2024 Aug;24(3):360-366.
    PMID: 39234330 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.6.2024.030
    OBJECTIVES: This study attempted to develop 2 biodegradable periodontal chips containing Salvadora persica (miswak) or benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) extracts and evaluate their clinical effectiveness in managing periodontitis.

    METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, from September 2010 to April 2012. Periodontal chips were formulated using S. persica, benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) and chitosan extracts. All patients were treated with full mouth scaling and root planing at baseline. Thereafter, the periodontal pockets (≥5 mm in length) were divided into 4 groups: the control group; group 2 (plain chitosan chip); group 3 (S. persica extract); and group 4 (BITC extract). Plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), periodontal probing pocket depth and clinical attachment levels were recorded at days 0 and 60 only.

    RESULTS: A total of 12 patients participated in this study. Overall, 240 periodontal pockets were evaluated. The study revealed significant improvements in PI, BOP and reduction in periodontal pocket depth in all 4 groups (P <0.05). The improvement in clinical attachment level was significantly higher (P <0.001) among the group that received S. persica chips compared to the control and other chip-treated groups.

    CONCLUSION: Periodontal chips containing S. persica can be used as adjuncts to treat patients with periodontitis.

    Matched MeSH terms: Dental Scaling/methods; Root Planing/methods
  13. Kwan HF, Ng BH, Nik Abeed NN, Ban AY
    BMJ Case Rep, 2024 Nov 07;17(11).
    PMID: 39510609 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2023-259166
    Re-expansion pulmonary oedema (RPE) is an uncommon complication that occurs when a collapsed lung suddenly re-expands, resulting in an osmotic shift of fluid from the blood vessels into the air spaces within the lungs. This condition can develop following thoracocentesis or intercostal chest drainage. We report two cases of RPE that developed after varying volumes of pleural drainage and at different times. Both patients responded well to non-invasive ventilation and hydrocortisone, making a full recovery. Early detection is crucial as RPE is associated with higher mortality rates, but a positive prognosis is attainable with prompt identification and intervention.
    Matched MeSH terms: Thoracentesis/methods; Drainage/methods
  14. Takaki S, Kadiman SB, Tahir SS, Ariff MH, Kurahashi K, Goto T
    J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth, 2015 Feb;29(1):64-8.
    PMID: 25620140 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2014.06.022
    The aim of this study was to determine the best predictors of successful extubation after cardiac surgery, by modifying the rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) based on patients' anthropometric parameters.
    Matched MeSH terms: Anthropometry/methods*; Respiration, Artificial/methods*; Respiratory Function Tests/methods; Ventilator Weaning/methods*; Airway Extubation/methods*
  15. Badsha S, Reza AW, Tan KG, Dimyati K
    J Digit Imaging, 2013 Dec;26(6):1107-15.
    PMID: 23515843 DOI: 10.1007/s10278-013-9585-8
    Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is increasing progressively pushing the demand of automatic extraction and classification of severity of diseases. Blood vessel extraction from the fundus image is a vital and challenging task. Therefore, this paper presents a new, computationally simple, and automatic method to extract the retinal blood vessel. The proposed method comprises several basic image processing techniques, namely edge enhancement by standard template, noise removal, thresholding, morphological operation, and object classification. The proposed method has been tested on a set of retinal images. The retinal images were collected from the DRIVE database and we have employed robust performance analysis to evaluate the accuracy. The results obtained from this study reveal that the proposed method offers an average accuracy of about 97 %, sensitivity of 99 %, specificity of 86 %, and predictive value of 98 %, which is superior to various well-known techniques.
    Matched MeSH terms: Diagnostic Imaging/methods; Image Enhancement/methods*; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/methods*; Pattern Recognition, Automated/methods*; Retinoscopy/methods
  16. Malik AS, Malik RH
    Med Teach, 2012;34(3):198-204.
    PMID: 22364451 DOI: 10.3109/0142159X.2011.588741
    Retaining lectures in problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum places new demands on lecturers. In addition to subject knowledge, the lecturers must know the overall aims of the lectures, their context in the course, their relation to the subsequent examinations and the underlying educational philosophy.
    Matched MeSH terms: Education, Medical/methods*; Teaching/methods; Program Evaluation/methods; Program Development/methods; Problem-Based Learning/methods*
  17. Wong SC, Nawawi O, Ramli N, Abd Kadir KA
    Acad Radiol, 2012 Jun;19(6):701-7.
    PMID: 22578227 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2012.02.012
    The aim of this study was to compare conventional two-dimensional (2D) digital subtraction angiography (DSA) with three-dimensional (3D) rotational DSA in the investigation of intracranial aneurysm in terms of detection, size measurement, neck diameter, neck delineation, and relationship with surrounding vessels. A further aim was to compare radiation dose, contrast volume, and procedural time between the two protocols.
    Matched MeSH terms: Cerebral Angiography/methods*; Radiographic Image Enhancement/methods; Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/methods*; Angiography, Digital Subtraction/methods*; Imaging, Three-Dimensional/methods*
  18. Pasha MF, Hong KS, Rajeswari M
    PMID: 22255503 DOI: 10.1109/IEMBS.2011.6091280
    Automating the detection of lesions in liver CT scans requires a high performance and robust solution. With CT-scan start to become the norm in emergency department, the need for a fast and efficient liver lesions detection method is arising. In this paper, we propose a fast and evolvable method to profile the features of pre-segmented healthy liver and use it to detect the presence of liver lesions in emergency scenario. Our preliminary experiment with the MICCAI 2007 grand challenge datasets shows promising results of a fast training time, ability to evolve the produced healthy liver profiles, and accurate detection of the liver lesions. Lastly, the future work directions are also presented.
    Matched MeSH terms: Critical Care/methods*; Pattern Recognition, Automated/methods*; Radiographic Image Enhancement/methods; Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/methods*; Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods*
  19. Ihtatho D, Fadzil MH, Affandi AM, Hussein SH
    PMID: 18002738
    Psoriasis is a skin disorder which is caused by genetic fault. There is no cure for psoriasis, however, there are many treatment modalities to help control the disease. To evaluate treatment efficacy, PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) which is the current gold standard method is used to measure psoriasis severity by evaluating the area, erythema, scaliness and thickness of the plaques. However, the calculation of PASI can be tedious and subjective. In this work, we develop a computer vision method that determines one of the PASI parameter, the lesion area. The method isolates healthy (or healed) skin areas from lesion areas by analyzing the hue and chroma information in the CIE L*a*b* colour space. Centroids of healthy skin and psoriasis in the hue-chroma space are determined from selected sample. Euclidean distance of all pixels from each centroid is calculated. Each pixel is assigned to the class with minimum Euclidean distance. The study involves patients from three different ethnic origins having different skin tones. Results obtained show that the proposed method is comparable to the dermatologist visual approach.
    Matched MeSH terms: Colorimetry/methods*; Image Enhancement/methods; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/methods*; Pattern Recognition, Automated/methods*; Dermoscopy/methods*
  20. Nugroho H, Fadzil MH, Yap VV, Norashikin S, Suraiya HH
    PMID: 18002737
    In this paper, we describe an image processing scheme to analyze and determine areas of skin that have undergone repigmentation in particular, during the treatment of vitiligo. In vitiligo cases, areas of skin become pale or white due to the lack of skin pigment called melanin. Vitiligo treatment causes skin repigmentation resulting in a normal skin color. However, it is difficult to determine and quantify the amount of repigmentation visually during treatment because the repigmentation progress is slow and moreover changes in skin color can only be discerned over a longer time frame typically 6 months. Here, we develop a digital image analysis scheme that can identify and determine vitiligo skin areas and repigmentation progression on a shorter time period. The technique is based on principal component analysis and independent component analysis which converts the RGB skin image into a skin image that represent skin areas due to melanin and haemoglobin only, followed by segmentation process. Vitiligo skin lesions are identified as skin areas that lack melanin (non-melanin areas). In the initial studies of 4 patients, the method has been able to quantify repigmentation in vitiligo lesion. Hence it is now possible to determine repigmentation progression objectively and treatment efficacy on a shorter time cycle.
    Matched MeSH terms: Colorimetry/methods*; Image Enhancement/methods; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted/methods*; Information Storage and Retrieval/methods*; Dermoscopy/methods*
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