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To review the anatomy of the spiral groove, its clinical significance, and the imaging characteristics of common pathologies affecting this area, highlighting the strengths of different imaging modalities. A comprehensive review of the spiral groove anatomy and its clinical implications and an evaluation of various imaging techniques, including radiography, ultrasound, MRI, and CT, was conducted. The review covers pathologic conditions such as Saturday night palsy, humeral fractures, tumours, and infections, with an emphasis on their imaging findings and clinical implications. The spiral groove provides a pathway for the radial nerve and the deep brachial artery, both crucial for upper limb function. Each imaging modality offers unique advantages: radiography is useful for initial assessment, ultrasound provides dynamic visualisation, MRI offers high-resolution soft tissue imaging, and CT is ideal for detailed bone anatomy. Understanding these imaging characteristics is essential for diagnosing fractures, assessing humeral alignment, and detecting nerve entrapment or injury. Accurate imaging of the spiral groove is essential for diagnosing and treating pathologies related to this anatomical feature. The integrative approach of using appropriate imaging modalities enhances diagnostic precision and informs therapeutic strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aimed to evaluate modified patient-specific surgical-guide-assisted precise treatment of unilateral comminuted zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures. The retrospective non-randomized study was conducted in a single hospital in China. All patients diagnosed with unilateral comminuted ZMC fractures between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent preoperative spiral computed tomography (CT). CT data were processed using software to DICOM format and transferred to Proplan CMF3.0 for preoperative virtual surgical planning and postoperative evaluation. All data were extracted from standardized electronic medical records. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20.0. The chi-square test and t -test were used for statistical analyses. The 54 included patients were divided into two comparable, equal cohorts of 27 patients, and followed up for at least 6 months. Fracture reduction was assisted using the modified patient-specific surgical guides in the guide group (23 males, four females; mean age 37.74 ± 12.07 years) and without the modified patient-specific surgical guides in the control group (20 males, seven females; mean age 37.44 ± 13.58 years). In the guide group, the mean eminence deviation between the affected and unaffected sides was 1.01 ± 0.92 mm, and the mean width deviation between the affected and unaffected sides was 1.29 ± 1.32 mm. In the control group, the mean eminence deviation between the affected and unaffected sides was 1.99 ± 1.69 mm, and the mean width deviation between the affected and unaffected sides was 2.68 ± 2.01 mm. The differences in facial protrusion (p = 0.001) and width (p = 0.003) symmetry between the affected and healthy sides of the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). In conclusion, applying the modified patient-specific surgical guides to unilateral comminuted zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture reduction has the advantages of greater predictability and effectiveness, and improved bilateral ZMC symmetry. It should be noted that this approach would be especially beneficial for less-experienced surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synovial chondromatosis (SC) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a rare benign disease associated with the formation of multiple cartilaginous nodules in the synovial tissue of the TMJ. This can result in pain, swelling, clicking, limited mouth opening, and osseous degenerative joint changes. A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed to summarize the clinical features, radiographic findings, and surgical and histopathological findings of TMJ SC patients who underwent open surgery over a 24-year period. A radiographic scoring system was used to evaluate osseous changes and correlate condyle and joint fossa degeneration. The study included 38 patients and focused on 38 joints. All 38 of these joints showed degenerative changes in the condyle, while 37 showed osseous degenerative changes in the articular fossa. The degree of condylar degenerative changes was related to the duration of the chief complaints (r = 0.342, P = 0.036) and the histopathological stage of the TMJ SC (r = 0.440, P = 0.006), while the degree of joint fossa degenerative changes was associated with the radiographic extent of the SC (r = 0.504, P = 0.001), type of calcification (r = 0.365, P = 0.024), and the histopathological stage (r = 0.458, P = 0.004). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical glass BK7 is an amorphous crown glass widely used in the aviation industry and high-power laser equipment due to its mechanical and optical properties. With the hard surface and brittle nature, the grinding process is one of the standard machining methods of BK7. Fracture is a dominant mechanism in removing brittle materials, which causes surface and sub-surface defects in the workpiece. Prediction of the depth of sub-surface damage (SSD) that has occurred allows the optimal reduction or even elimination of sub-surface defects in the finish grinding stage. This research aimed to comprehensively investigate the multifaceted influence of seven pertinent parameters on the depth of sub-surface damage (SSD) and surface roughness (SR) resulting from the grinding process. More specifically, it delved into the effects of the grinding wheel's movement direction under varying contact conditions, including angular grinding, vertical grinding, and face grinding, focusing on three critical aspects: the maximum undeformed chip thickness, depth of sub-surface damage, and resulting surface roughness. The contact conditions between the grinding wheel and the workpiece were systematically classified into four groups based on predetermined input parameters to facilitate in-depth analysis. Subsequently, the resulting outputs were evaluated and compared across these diverse contact conditions. The comparative examination between theoretical equations and experimental findings unveiled a maximum deviation of 10 % in SSD depths and 15.61 % in SR estimations. Furthermore, this study's experimental assessments identified nonlinear and monotonic relationships between the depth of SSD, surface roughness, and the maximum undeformed chip thickness (h m). The experimental relationships and the measured results notably highlighted observed discrepancies of 4.27 %, 10 %, and 10 % for the respective parameters (SSD, surface roughness, and h m). • The effect of the spiral speed on the surface and subsurface defects had not been evaluated with the cup grinding wheel. • Maximum undeformed chip thickness (h m) relations were modified based on the grinding conditions. • The SSD depth and the SR value in four grinding conditions with cup wheels were theoretically and experimentally evaluated. • The SR values and SSD depth can be changed according to the workpiece radius based on the grinding conditions. • Monotonic non-linear relations are obtained based on the experimenral results to calculate SSD depth in terms of SR value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During early human pregnancy, placental trophoblasts remodel spiral arteries into distensible low-resistance vessels to promote placental perfusion. We have established a model of impaired spiral artery remodeling (SAR) by elevating estradiol levels in the first trimester of baboon pregnancy. In the present study, B-flow/spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) M-mode ultrasonography, a non-Doppler technology for sharp rendering of vessel dimensions, was used to determine whether spiral artery distensibility was altered in SAR-suppressed baboons. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound/microbubble imaging was also performed to determine whether it detected changes in placenta intervillous space perfusion in SAR-suppressed baboons. The two imaging procedures were performed in the first trimester in baboons not treated or treated with estradiol to suppress SAR. Spiral artery distensibility, that is, luminal diameter at systole minus diameter at diastole, and volume flow as quantified by B-flow/STIC M-mode were 26% (p = 0.03) and 55% (p = 0.059) lower, respectively, in SAR-suppressed baboons. However, placental intervillous space flow rate and video intensity plateau levels reflecting blood perfusion, quantified by contrast-enhanced ultrasound/microbubble imaging, were unaltered in SAR-suppressed baboons. The results indicate that B-flow/STIC M-mode ultrasonography provides a non-invasive method to detect reduced distensibility and, thus, function of spiral arteries across the cardiac cycle in the first trimester in a primate model of impaired SAR. This study represents a first step in determining whether B-flow/STIC M-mode detects a similar defect in SAR early in adverse human pregnancy. This would provide an avenue to develop therapeutic modalities to prevent the devastating consequences of impaired SAR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the image quality of the combined technique of compressed sensitivity encoding (CS) and spiral imaging in time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (TOF-MRA), which is approximately 2.5 times faster than conventional methods. Twenty volunteers underwent four TOF-MRA sequences: sensitivity encoding (SENSE) with acceleration factor of 4 (acquisition time: 4:55 min), CS with acceleration factor of 10.9, and spiral and CS-spiral (both 1:55 min). A quantitative image analysis (signal-to-noise ratio [SNR], contrast, and full width at half maximum [FWHM] edge criterion measurements) was performed on four TOF sequences. For qualitative image analysis, two board-certified radiologists evaluated the overall depiction of the proximal, intermediate, and distal branches in CS, spiral, and CS-spiral images using SENSE as a reference. The SNR of BA in spiral and CS-spiral imaging was significantly lower than that in SENSE (p = 0.009). The contrasts of ACA and BA in CS-spiral were significantly higher and those in spiral were significantly lower than those in SENSE (p < 0.001). The FWHM in the CS image was significantly higher than that of SENSE; however, no significant differences were observed between the spiral or CS-spiral and SENSE. In qualitative analysis, the depiction of proximal vascular branches was significantly impaired in spiral than in others and that of distal vascular branches was significantly impaired in CS than in others (p < 0.001). In TOF-MRA, which is approximately 2.5 times faster than conventional methods, the combined use of CS and spiral imaging demonstrated an improvement in image quality compared to either CS or spiral imaging alone. The image quality of Compressed SENSE and spiral imaging is particularly poor in the proximal and distal vascular branches, respectively at an extremely high acceleration factor; however, CS-spiral provided stable image quality in all regions as compared with the SENSE technique. • The application of both the compressed SENSE and spiral techniques together resulted in a consistently stable image quality across all regions, showing a noticeable improvement over the usage of either the spiral or compressed SENSE technique in isolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gamma knife (GK) thalamotomy has been used as a treatment option for essential tremor (ET). Numerous studies on GK use in ET treatment have reported more varied responses and complication rates. Data from 27 patients with ET who underwent GK thalamotomy were retrospectively analyzed. The Fahn-Tolosa-Marin Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor, handwriting, and spiral drawing were evaluated. Postoperative adverse events and magnetic resonance imaging findings were also evaluated. The mean age at GK thalamotomy was 78.1 ± 4.2 years. The mean follow-up period was 32.5 ± 19.4 months. The preoperative postural tremor, handwriting, and spiral drawing scores were 3.4 ± 0.6, 3.3 ± 1.0, and 3.2 ± 0.8, respectively, all of which showed significant improvements to 1.5 ± 1.2 (55.9% improvement, P < 0.001), 1.4 ± 1.1 (57.6% improvement, P < 0.001), and 1.6 ± 1.3 (50% improvement, P < 0.001), respectively, at the available final follow-up evaluations. Three patients presented with no improvement in tremor. Six patients presented with adverse effects, including complete hemiparesis, foot weakness, dysarthria, dysphagia, lip numbness, and finger numbness, at the final follow-up period. Two patients presented with serious complications, including complete hemiparesis due to massive widespread edema and chronic encapsulated expanding hematoma. One patient died of aspiration pneumonia following severe dysphagia secondary to chronic encapsulated expanding hematoma. GK thalamotomy is an efficient procedure for treating ET. Careful treatment planning is necessary to reduce complication rates. The prediction of radiation complications will increase the safety and effectiveness of GK treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Unilateral high-riding vertebral artery may cause the nonuniform settlement of lateral mass. • Unilateral high-riding vertebral artery is associated with morphological changes of atlantoaxial joint. • We first propose the settlement phenomenon of C2 lateral mass and measurement method. • Expanding the understanding of effect of high-riding vertebral artery on atlantoaxial joint. A high-riding vertebral artery (HRVA) can deviate too medially, too posteriorly, or too superiorly to allow the safe insertion of screws. However, it is unknown whether the presence of a HRVA is associated with morphological changes of the atlantoaxial joint. To investigate the association between HRVA and atlantoaxial joint morphology in patients with and without HRVA. A retrospective case–control study and finite element (FE) analysis. A total of 396 patients with cervical spondylosis underwent multi-slice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) of cervical spine at our institutions from 2020 to 2022. A series of atlantoaxial joint morphological parameters, including C2 lateral mass settlement (C2 LMS), C1–2 sagittal joint inclination (C1–2 SI), C1–2 coronal joint inclination (C1–2 CI), atlanto-dental interval (ADI), lateral atlanto-dental interval (LADI), and C1–2 relative rotation angle (C1–2 RRA) were measured, and lateral atlantoaxial joints osteoarthritis (LAJs-OA) was recorded. The stress distribution on the C2 facet surface under different torques of flexion-extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation was analyzed by FE models. A 2-Nm moment was applied to all models to determine the range of motion (ROM). A total of 132 consecutive cervical spondylosis patients with unilateral HRVA were enrolled in the HRVA group, and 264 patients without HRVA matched for age and sex were enrolled in the normal (NL) group. Atlantoaxial joint morphological parameters were compared between two sides of C2 lateral mass within HRVA or NL group, and between HRVA and NL groups. A 48-year-old woman with cervical spondylosis without HRVA was selected for cervical MSCT. A three-dimensional (3D) FE intact model of the normal upper cervical spine (C0-C2) was created. We established the HRVA model by simulating atlantoaxial morphological changes of unilateral HRVA with FE method. The C2 LMS was significantly smaller on the HRVA side than that on the non-HRVA side in the HRVA group, but C1–2 SI, C1–2 CI, and LADI on HRVA side were significantly larger than those on non-HRVA side. There was no significant difference between left and right sides in the NL group. The difference in C2 LMS (d-C2 LMS) between HRVA side and non-HRVA side in the HRVA group was larger than that in the NL group (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the differences in C1–2 SI (d-C1/2 SI), C1–2 CI (d-C1/2 CI), and LADI (d-LADI) in the HRVA group were significantly larger than those in the NL group. The C1–2 RRA in the HRVA group was significantly larger than that in the NL group. Pearson correlations showed that d-C1/2 SI, d-C1/2 CI, and d-LADI were positively associated with d-C2 LMS (r=0.428, 0.649, 0.498, respectively, p<.05 for all). The incidence of LAJs-OA in the HRVA group (27.3%) was significantly larger than that in the NL group (11.7%). Compared with the normal model, the ROM of C1-2 segment declined in all postures of the HRVA FE model. We found a larger distribution of stress on the C2 lateral mass surface of the HRVA side under different moment conditions. We suggest that HRVA affects the integrity of the C2 lateral mass. This change in patients with unilateral HRVA is associated with the nonuniform settlement of the lateral mass and an increase in the lateral mass inclination, which may further affect the degeneration of the atlantoaxial joint because of the stress concentration on the C2 lateral mass surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical treatment of tumours in the anterior mandible and surrounding tissues may result in defects which can be restored by a fibula free flap. The upper airway may change during this process. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate upper airway changes after fibula free flap reconstruction. A total of 37 patients who underwent anterior mandibulectomy and fibula free flap reconstruction between 2012 and 2020 were recruited. Patients with benign and malignant tumours involving the anterior mandible were included. Spiral computed tomography was performed 1 week preoperatively, 1 week postoperatively, and at> 1 year (range 12–23 months) after surgery. Cross-sectional areas and volumes of the upper airway were measured. Data were analysed by two-way analysis of variance. The upper airway in the malignant tumour group showed an increasing trend, especially at the soft palate and tongue base levels (P < 0.01). In the benign tumour group, the upper airway showed no significant changes. The location of the minimum cross-sectional area moved downwards in both groups, and the area increased in the malignant tumour group during long-term follow-up. Upper airway obstruction is less likely to occur in the long term after surgical resection of anterior mandible malignancies and fibula free flap reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate facial soft and hard tissue changes, individually and relative to each other, in patients with skeletal class III deformity after bimaxillary surgery using three-dimensional (3D) photos obtained by white light scanning. Thirty patients with skeletal class III deformity who underwent bimaxillary surgery were selected. Each patient underwent white light scanning and spiral computed tomography (CT) within two weeks before (T0) and six months after surgery (T1). The 3D photos were registered with CT soft tissue models for T0 and T1, and the skeletal area unaffected by treatment (cranial base) was used to register T0 and T1. Then, the 3D colour-coded map was analysed to assess both skeletal and soft tissue changes between T0 and T1. Changes in the 3D coordinates of each anatomical landmark were analysed using the Student's t -test. Maxillary advancement by 2–3 mm and mandibular recession by 5–6 mm were observed; the mandible was shortened in the vertical direction. Compared with the preoperative values, the nasal columella was 0.51 mm shorter, the upper lip was 0.71 mm longer, the base of the alar cartilage was 1.38 mm wider, and the nasolabial angle became larger. The ratio of change in the position of soft tissue point Sn to hard tissue point A was 0.73:1, and that of soft tissue point Pg to hard tissue point Pog was 0.86:1. Images obtained by structured white light scanning registered with CT can be used as an alternative to study facial changes after orthognathic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate variable helical pitch (VHP) protocol for pre-intervention evaluation of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). 60 patients (M/F 39/21, Mean age 59 ± 13 years) with aortic valvular disease who underwent CT scan for preoperative assessment of TAVI were randomly divided into two groups. Group A, performed VHP scan mode with ECG-gated scans for chest area by non-ECG-gated abdominal scans. Contrast agent: kg * 1.0 ml, flow rate 4.0 ml /s. Group B used conventional two injections protocol to scan retrospectively ECG-gated CTA of the aortic root and heart (Contrast agent: kg * 0.7 ml, flow rate 4.5ml / s) and non-ECG-gated CTA of the aorta / iliac artery / femoral artery respectively (Contrast agent: kg * 1.1 ml, flow rate 3.0 ml / s). Statistical analysis was performed on the image quality, radiation dose, software measurement report, and contrast agent usage of the two sets of data. There was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in the CT values of the thoracic aorta, abdominal aorta, coronary artery, and iliac artery between the two sets of images. After post-processing analysis using 3mensio software, both sets of scanning data were able to evaluate the patient's peripheral vascular access, sinus height, degree of coronary artery stenosis, and measure the diameter of the ascending aorta, aortic root, and aortic ring. In terms of patient radiation dose, Group A (DLP=706.4 ± 49.1) showed a significant decrease compared to Group B (DLP=923.8±56.6) (P<0.001). The usage of the two groups of contrast agents was statistically significant (P<0.001). The "one-stop" scan using the VHP protocol for preoperative TAVI evaluation can significantly reduce the radiation dose and contrast agent consumption without affecting the image quality and measurement data, which show great potential value in clinical routine for TAVI preoperative evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computed tomography (CT) based lung screening followed by computer-vision-based automated segmentation has great potential in early diagnosis of COVID-19, but low sample size and high patient-to-patient variability of infection characteristics are two of the major challenges. We propose a novel Mutual Information Balanced Net (MIB-Net) with three distinctive features. First, it captures mutual information across feature maps, CT scans, and predicted segmentation labels to optimize the contribution of different feature maps for better segmentation accuracy. Second, it incorporates a three-dimensional structural prior of CT scans based on predicted segmentation of neighboring CT slices to improve accuracy. Third, a novel Weight Optimization Filter (WOF) is used to adjust the proportion of 3D structural prior to be incorporated, which further improves the segmentation accuracy. Experimental results show that the proposed approach outperforms state-of-the-art biomedical image segmentation models by 7.87%, 3.85%, and 5.01% in Dice Score, respectively for three popular COVID-19 CT datasets. The better performance of the proposed approach suggests that it may serve as an attractive alternative to Lung CT-based screening for COVID-19. • Incorporation of Mutual Information to control the parallel information flow. • Novel MI Balancer architecture for COVID-19 segmentation. • Incorporation of the 3D structural prior to learn inter-slice spatial dependence. • Novel WOF to balance between the current slice and neighboring prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the three-dimensional condylar displacement and long-term remodelling following the correction of asymmetric mandibular prognathism with maxillary canting. Thirty consecutive patients (60 condyles) with asymmetric mandibular prognathism >4 mm and occlusal canting >3 mm, treated by Le Fort I osteotomy and bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy, were included. Spiral computed tomography scans obtained at different periods during long-term follow-up (mean 17 ± 7.2 months) were gathered and processed using ITK-SNAP and 3D Slicer. The condyles were subjected to translational and rotational displacements immediately after the surgery (T2), which had not fully returned to the original preoperative positions at the last follow-up (T3). Condylar remodelling was observed at the last follow-up (T3), with the shorter side condyles subjected to higher surface resorption and overall condylar volume loss. The overall condylar volume on the shorter side was significantly reduced compared to the volume on the elongated side (−11.9 ± 90.6 vs −131.7 ± 138.2 mm3; P = 0.001). About 73%, 87%, 53%, and 54% of the shorter side condyles experienced resorption on the posterior, superior, medial, and lateral surfaces, respectively; in contrast, only 50% of the elongated side condyles showed resorption on the superior surface. Higher preoperative asymmetry was significantly correlated with increased postoperative condylar displacement (P < 0.05). The vertical asymmetry and the vector of condylar displacement were associated with the resultant remodelling process. It is concluded that condylar resorption of the shorter side condyle, which may affect the long-term surgical stability, has to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An ultra-broadband multi-channel OAM mode converter using a pair of helical long period gratings (HLPGs) is proposed. • The maximum channel number of OAM mode generator reaches 46, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the highest number of channels among OAM mode converters. • The maximum wavelength ranges of the channels with coupling efficiency greater than 90 % are measured to be 379 nm experimentally. We demonstrate an ultra-broadband multi-channel orbital angular momentum (OAM) mode generator using a helical long-period grating (HLPG) pair in a few-mode fiber. The numbers of the channel of the OAM mode generator can be flexibly adjusted by designing the cascaded length of the HLPG pair. When the cascaded length is 50 cm, the maximum channel number of OAM mode generator reaches 46, and the mode convert efficiencies of the channels are more than 90 %, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the highest number of channels among OAM mode converters. By reducing grating length and enhancing the refractive index modulation depth, the 3 dB bandwidth of the HLPG is significantly increased, and thus the wavelength range of the HLPG pair can be expanded. The maximum wavelength ranges of the channels with coupling efficiency greater than 90 % are measured to be 379 nm experimentally. By adjusting the spiral direction of the helical refractive index modulation, we can achieve multi-channel ± 1 order OAM mode conversion for each channel. The multi-channel OAM mode generator holds substantial potential for applications in mode division multiplexing systems, wavelength filters, and fiber sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In turbomachine seal, preswirl generates the tangential force that induces the rotor vibration. Effective preswirl control can improve the rotordynamic stability. For this purpose, this study designs the spiral steering blades in front of the first seal tooth. Adjacent spiral steering blades form one spiral channel. The fluid is constrained and guided to flow along the spiral channel. The CFD results show that the new design reduces the leakage due to the additional throttling. The new design reverses the preswirl direction, optimizes the circumferential pressure distribution, and generates the negative tangential force. More spiral steering blades are better to reduce the tangential force. The new design largely reduces the effect of preswirl, and performs well under high preswirl condition. • The spiral steering blades are designed to improve seal rotordynamic stability. • The new design reverses the preswirl direction. • The new design generates the negative tangential force. • The new design largely reduces the effect of preswirl ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spiral interferometry is a technique that accurately measures changes in 3D structures or refractive indices by converting phase changes into spiral fringe patterns. The spiral fringe patterns consist of phase distributions, which are wrapped from 0 to 2 π , requiring phase unwrapping techniques. Phase unwrapping transforms a discontinuous phase image from 0 to 2 π into a continuous phase image, which can ultimately be reconstructed into 3D information. The 3D reconstructed information is affected by the unwrapped phase information with noise. Among the phase unwrapping methods, the number-theoretical phase unwrapping method used in 1D structured light is a unique approach that unwraps the phase into a step function. Due to its insensitivity to noise, this method is an effective solution for improving phase unwrapping in noisy environments. However, due to the same characteristics, the resolution inevitably decreases. In this paper, we propose a super-resolution based numerical unwrapping method applicable to two-dimensional spiral patterns. Based on multi-wavelength interpolation, this method not only retains the advantage of the number-theoretical phase unwrapping method, which is insensitive to noise, but also compensates for its disadvantage of resolution degradation. The proposed method uses the basic concept of generating sub-step information by multi-wavelength interpolation and performing super-resolution based on this concept. We perform simulations and experiments to verify the validity. As a result of the verification, it is confirmed that the super-resolution effect of the number-theoretical unwrapping in the 2D spiral fringe patterns can be achieved by the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis is a prevalent pediatric hip disorder. Recent studies suggest the spine's sagittal profile may influence the proximal femoral growth plate's slippage, an aspect not extensively explored. This study utilizes finite element analysis to investigate how various spinopelvic alignments affect shear stress and growth plate slip. A finite element model was developed from CT scans of a healthy adult male lumbar spine, pelvis, and femurs. The model was subjected to various sagittal alignments through reorientation. Simulations of two-leg stance, one-leg stance, walking heel strike, ascending stairs heel strike, and descending stairs heel strike were conducted. Parameters measured included hip joint contact area, stress, and maximum growth plate Tresca (shear) stress. Posterior pelvic tilt cases indicated larger shear stresses compared to the anterior pelvic tilt variants except in two leg stance. Two leg stance resulted in decreases in the posterior tilted pelvi variants hip contact and growth plate Tresca stress compared to anterior tilted pelvi, however a combination of posterior pelvic tilt and high pelvic incidence indicated larger shear stresses on the growth plate. One leg stance and heal strike resulted in higher shear stress on the growth plate in posterior pelvic tilt variants compared to anterior pelvic tilt, with a combination of posterior pelvic tilt and high pelvic incidence resulting in the largest shear. Our findings suggest that posterior pelvic tilt and high pelvic incidence may lead to increased shear stress at the growth plate. Activities performed in patients with these alignments may predispose to biomechanical loading that shears the growth plate, potentially leading to slip. • Exaggerated hip-spine alignment contributes to growth plate shear. • Variation in spinopelvic alignment alters hip joint cartilage mechanics. • Spinopelvic asymmetry may be a contributing factor to growth plate slip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Larsen of La Réunion Island syndrome (LRS) is an autosomal recessive condition associated with multiple large joint dislocations, clubfeet, severe dwarfism, and distinctive facial features. LRS is caused by a recurrent homozygous variant in B4GALT7 gene with a founder effect in La Réunion population. Proteoglycans (PG) that are a major component of the extracellular matrix, are composed of a core protein connected to a glycosaminoglycans side chain via a tetrasaccharide linker region. B4GALT7 encodes galactosyltransferase I, one of the enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of the linker region. Conditions caused by pathogenic biallelic variants in genes implicated in the synthesis of the tetrasaccharide linker of PG are known as linkeropathies. Prenatal features are rarely described in this group of chondrodysplasias. We present a series of 12 unpublished patients having LRS and describe the perinatal phenotype. All the patients had a prenatal growth restriction with brevity of limbs. The other features revealed by ultrasounds were increased nuchal translucency at 10–12 weeks of gestation (50 %), feet abnormalities (clubfeet or metatarsus varus) (25 %), dislocation affecting at least one large joint (elbow, knee, wrist) (25 %). Bilateral bowing of femora was noted for two fetuses. Fibular hypertrophy was noted for one fetus. Prenatal helical computed tomography (CT) performed in three pregnancies showed additional data such as bowing of the forearm bones, proximal radio-ulnar synostosis, or dislocation of large joints. Prenatal sonographic and helical CT findings led to the prenatal diagnosis of LRS in four patients. We confirm that the neonatal clinical picture of LRS has an important overlap with that reported in patients with B4GALT7 deficiency outside La Réunion Island and other linkeropathies. The core of the phenotypic spectrum combines low birth height, micromelia, hypermobility, dislocation of at least one large joint, facial features with prominent eyes, microstomia, depressed nasal bridge, and midface hypoplasia. Other clinical features include clubfeet (33%), bifid thumb in one patient, and cardiac abnormalities in two patients. Radiological findings include radio-ulnar synostosis (75%), metaphyseal flaring, precocious carpal ossification, and a Swedish key appearance of the proximal femora. Finally, we also report radiological features rarely described in B4GALT7-linkeropathies, including bowing of the femora and fibular hypertrophy. Our results confirm the phenotypic continuum of LRS within linkeropathies with some additional findings, including a high frequency of clubfeet usually described in B3GALT6-linkeropathies, the presence of congenital heart diseases usually described in B3GAT3-linkeropathies, and a high frequency of metaphyseal flaring usually reported in B3GALT6 or XITLT1-linkeropathies. This is the first study that describes the perinatal phenotype in a cohort of patients with LRS. This study can help improve the prenatal diagnosis of the linkeropathies and add this group of conditions to the differential diagnosis of chondrodysplasias with multiple dislocations. In view of the founder effect for LRS in La Réunion Island, this disease should be suspected in fetuses with growth restriction and micromelia. Thus in case of LOH which include B4GALT7 identified in SNP-array, we recommend performing a targeted Sanger sequencing for the recurrent mutation c.808C > T; p. (Arg270Cys). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel method for identifying tremor-related biomarkers in patients' handwriting and drawings. • The method evaluates and quantifies patients' intraprocedural treatment responses during MR-guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy. • The measurements from the quantitative method were correlated with previously validated accelerometer measurements of the patient's tremor quantification. • The same drawing sheet used during the thalamotomy procedure was mailed to patients for the follow-up evaluation and evaluated the durability of the treatment. During MR–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy, patients' tremors are qualitatively assessed with drawing tests to provide near-real-time feedback on the treatment effect. The objective of this study was to validate an automated measure of kinetic tremor in patients with essential tremor (ET) or Parkinson's disease (PD) by computerized analysis of standardized drawings. Drawings were performed in three settings: (1) patients supine in the MR scanner during the procedure, (2) patients seated immediately before and after treatment, and (3) months after discharge. Drawings comprised of a signature, the Archimedes spiral, and a straight line. Once the drawings were digitized, the automated analysis was used to calculate quantitative metrics. For validation, the composite scores were compared with wrist angle simultaneously measured using accelerometers during the patients' drawings. Quantitative drawing scores for the spiral and line showed significant improvement immediately after thalamotomy in patients with ET (spiral: p = 0.0002; line: p = 0.017) and PD (spiral: p = 0.12; line: p = 0.016); no significant change occurred in the months after treatment. In addition, quantitative drawing scores for spirals and lines were correlated with accelerometer-measured wrist angle in ET (spiral: R2 = 0.51, p = 0.029; line: R2 = 0.63, p = 0.004) and PD (spiral: R2 = 0.85, p = 0.0008; line: R2 = 0.69, p = 0.017) groups. Quantitative drawing scores for patients with ET or PD accurately reflect the degree of tremor and can be used for objective assessment of tremor improvement during and after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the postoperative condylar displacement and the long-term condylar remodelling in patients with mandibular prognathism with transverse asymmetry after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO). Forty-one consecutive patients (82 condyles) with a transverse mandibular asymmetry of more than 4 mm without occlusal canting treated by BSSRO were included. The preoperative (T1), immediate postoperative (T2) and long-term follow-up of an average of 16.2 months (T3) spiral computed tomography scans were gathered and processed to measure the condylar displacement and remodelling based on cranial base voxel-based and rigid regional registrations. The statistical analysis revealed that the majority of condyles (T1–T2) were transitionally displaced forwards, downwards and laterally, and were not fully returned to the preoperative position at T3. Condylar lateral displacement was significantly higher on the deviated side (DS) (P = 0.035). Non-deviated side (NDS) condyles were mainly subjected to upward pitch, medial yaw and medial roll compared with downward pitch, lateral yaw and lateral roll on DS. Condylar remodelling at T3 was observed, with the superior and posterior surfaces commonly subjected to bone resorption, whereas the anterior and medial surfaces were commonly subjected to bone apposition. Condylar volumetric changes were relatively comparable on NDS (3 ± 85.2 mm3) and DS (8.3 ± 111.7 mm3) condyles. Age, amount of preoperative asymmetry and follow-up period were not correlated with the condylar remodelling. Transitional and rotational displacements were to some extent significantly correlated with the condylar remodelling on both sides. Consequently, passive condylar seating without torque might prevent the long-term unfavourable condylar remodelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uterocervical motions and organ filling during cervical cancer conformal radiotherapy is complex. This prospective, observational study investigated set-up margins (clinical target vo, ume [CTV] to planning target volume [PTV]) for pelvic nodal CTV and internal margin (CTV to internal target volume [ITV]) expansions for uterocervical movements during cervical cancer radiotherapy. During cervical cancer radiotherapy, a daily kilovoltage, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan was acquired. Bony anatomy-based rigid co-registration and matching to vessels/pelvic nodal region was carried out to document shifts, errors (systematic and random) and to calculate CTV to PTV margins. Subsequently, soft-tissue matching was carried out at the mid-cervical region and uterine fundus to record shifts, errors and to calculate CTV to ITV margins. In 67 patients, 1380 CBCT scans were analysed. The mean (±standard deviation) couch shifts for CTV pelvic nodal region in all directions were within 4.5–5.3 mm, systematic and random errors 3.0–3.6 mm and set-up margins of within 10 mm (except anterior margin 10.3 mm). For the mid-cervical region, mean shifts were 4.5–5.5 mm, systematic and random errors 2–4 mm amounting to <10 mm internal margins (CTV–ITV for cervix) and for uterine fundus mean (±standard deviation) shifts were larger in the superior direction (12.1 mm) but 4.0–7.5 mm in other directions, systematic and random errors 2–7 mm amounting to anisotropic margins in various directions (10 mm in anterior–posterior and lateral directions, 12–20 mm in superior–inferior directions) (CTV–ITV for uterine fundus). Our study suggests anisotropic CTV to ITV and CTV to PTV margins for cervical cancer radiotherapy. • Investigation of uterocervical motions and set-up margins required for primary and nodal CTV during cervical cancer radiotherapy. • Detailed analysis including uterocervical sub-volumes, factors affecting the internal organ motions tumour regression and impact on CTV. • Based on the various shifts, we report internal margins (CTV to ITV) and set-up margins (CTV to PTV) for cervical cancer radiotherapy. • Results suggest an anisotropic internal margin (CTV to ITV) and set-up margins (CTV to PTV) within a defined organ filling protocol environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify predictive (bio-)markers for COVID-19 severity derived from automated quantitative thin slice low dose volumetric CT analysis, clinical chemistry and lung function testing. Seventy-four COVID-19 patients admitted between March 16th and June 3rd 2020 to the Asklepios Lung Clinic Munich-Gauting, Germany, were included in the study. Patients were categorized in a non-severe group including patients hospitalized on general wards only and in a severe group including patients requiring intensive care treatment. Fully automated quantification of CT scans was performed via IMBIO CT Lung Texture analysis™ software. Predictive biomarkers were assessed with receiver-operator-curve and likelihood analysis. Fifty-five patients (44% female) presented with non-severe COVID-19 and 19 patients (32% female) with severe disease. Five fatalities were reported in the severe group. Accurate automated CT analysis was possible with 61 CTs (82%). Disease severity was linked to lower residual normal lung (72.5% vs 87%, p = 0.003), increased ground glass opacities (GGO) (8% vs 5%, p = 0.031) and increased reticular pattern (8% vs 2%, p = 0.025). Disease severity was associated with advanced age (76 vs 59 years, p = 0.001) and elevated serum C-reactive protein (CRP, 92.2 vs 36.3 mg/L, p < 0.001), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, 485 vs 268 IU/L, p < 0.001) and oxygen supplementation (p < 0.001) upon admission. Predictive risk factors for the development of severe COVID-19 were oxygen supplementation, LDH >313 IU/L, CRP >71 mg/L, <70% normal lung texture, >12.5% GGO and >4.5% reticular pattern. Automated low dose CT analysis upon admission might be a useful tool to predict COVID-19 severity in patients. • Automated quantitative thin slice volumetric low dose CT analysis could be a useful tool for prediction of COVID-19 severity on admission. • Need for oxygen supplementation, LDH >313 IU/L and CRP >71 mg/L were identified as clinical markers predicting disease severity. • Normal lung texture <70%, GGO >12.5% and reticular pattern >4.5% in CT were indicative of severe disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-time spiral phase contrast MR (PCMR) enables rapid free-breathing assessment of flow. Target spatial and temporal resolutions require high acceleration rates often leading to long reconstruction times. Here we propose a deep artifact suppression framework for fast and accurate flow quantification. U-Nets were trained for deep artifact suppression using 520 breath-hold gated spiral PCMR aortic datasets collected in congenital heart disease patients. Two spiral trajectories (uniform and perturbed) and two losses (Mean Absolute Error -MAE- and average structural similarity index measurement -SSIM-) were compared in synthetic data in terms of MAE, peak SNR (PSNR) and SSIM. Perturbed spiral PCMR was prospectively acquired in 20 patients. Stroke Volume (SV), peak mean velocity and edge sharpness measurements were compared to Compressed Sensing (CS) and Cartesian reference. In synthetic data, perturbed spiral consistently outperformed uniform spiral for the different image metrics. U-Net MAE showed better MAE and PSNR while U-Net SSIM showed higher SSIM based metrics. In-vivo, there were no significant differences in SV between any of the real-time reconstructions and the reference standard Cartesian data. However, U-Net SSIM had better image sharpness and lower biases for peak velocity when compared to U-Net MAE. Reconstruction of 96 frames took ~59 s for CS and 3.9 s for U-Nets. Deep artifact suppression of complex valued images using an SSIM based loss was successfully demonstrated in a cohort of congenital heart disease patients for fast and accurate flow quantification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this prospective study was to report the experience with a specific guided distraction protocol for the treatment of CLP patients with severe midface hypoplasia. From January 2016 to April 2019, six consecutive, non-growing, CLP patients with maxillary hypoplasia underwent a specific distraction protocol based on the use of VSP, CAD/CAM-generated surgical splints, cutting guides, prebent internal maxillary distractors, early removal of distractors, and acute callus manipulation and fixation. STL files for VSP, using multislice CT scans taken preoperatively (T0) and 3 months after distractor removal (T1) were superimposed using the free software 3D Slicer and Geomagic Wrap to evaluate the accuracy of maxillary repositioning and assess 3D bone changes. Clinical outcome was evaluated at the 1-year follow-up (T2). The patients and surgeon were satisfied with the occlusal and aesthetic outcomes. A maximum difference of 2 mm between the VSP and the actual surgical outcome was chosen as the success criterion for accuracy. The average linear difference for selected points was <2 mm in four patients and >2 mm in two patients. The average distance of the postoperative maxilla from the VSP model was 2.28 mm (median 1.85), while the average forward movement of the maxilla was 10.18 mm The protocol used is effective and accurate in the correction of severe maxillary hypoplasia in CLP patients. Early removal of the distractor and stabilization with plates reduces patient discomfort and does not jeopardize stability. This protocol should be reserved for complex cases due to the costs of the procedure, which are not negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the differences in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) diagnostic imaging utilization relative to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. We retrospectively reviewed SCLC records at our institution between January 1, 2003 and August 1, 2019 (n = 529). Patients were grouped by extensive-stage versus limited-stage and diagnosis date. Clinical, CT, MRI, and nuclear imaging data was collected. Imaging utilization was compared using Student's t -test or Kruskal-Wallis-test/Wilcoxon-Rank-Sums test. Survival was compared using Log-rank-test and Kaplan-Meier-curves. SCLC patients had a median survival of 290 days. Extensive-stage patients with SCLC demonstrated an increase in emergency imaging utilization when diagnosed in 2011–2019 compared to 2003–2010 (CT abdomen/pelvis p < 0.001, CTA chest for pulmonary embolism p < 0.01, CT head p < 0.003). Limited-stage patients with SCLC demonstrated an increase in inpatient imaging utilization (CT abdomen/pelvis p < 0.04) and decreased total/outpatient imaging utilization (CT chest-abdomen-pelvis p < 0.05, CT head p < 0.003) when diagnosed in 2011–2019 compared to 2003–2010. All patients with SCLC had decreased average number of bone-scan studies when diagnosed in 2011–2019 compared to 2003–2010 (Extensive-stage p < 0.006, Limited-stage p < 0.0006). Imaging utilization trends in the management of patients with SCLC at our institution differed between 2003 and 2010 and 2011–2019 reflecting the changes in the NCCN guidelines. • Imaging utilization for SCLC conformed with NCCN guideline changes from 2003 to 2019. • Extensive stage SCLC had an increase in emergency imaging based on diagnosis date. • Outpatient imaging of SCLC using MRI and FDG-PET increased based on diagnosis date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early identification of acute stroke lowers the fatality rate since clinicians can quickly decide on a quick decision of therapy. Brain computed tomography (CT) was one of the imaging techniques that were testified to be of utmost value in the evaluation of acute stroke, apart from unenhanced CT for emergency circumstances. The non-contrast image based treatment causes improper treatment of the patient. To overcome these issues, a novel hybrid image enhancement technique with an optimal feature selection based acute stroke approach was proposed. An advanced machine learning (ML) model was utilised to detect the stroke from the enhanced CT image. Hybrid preprocessing approaches were used to improve the contrast of collected CT images. Then, the enhanced images were segmented by using a modified active contour model, which was further proceeded for the feature extraction approach. Here, three various feature extraction approaches, local binary pattern, Gabor filter and discrete wavelet transform, were utilised to extract the features from the segmented image. Through the utilisation of a novel algorithm, the optimal features from the extracted images were selected. These optimal features were given to the ML model to predict the acute stroke appropriately. In order to reduce complexity and enhance the performance of a classifier, optimisation based regularisation parameters were chosen. The proposed XGBoost acute stroke detection approach provides 0.97 accuracy, 0.94 sensitivity and 0.015 false positive rate. Further, the proposed model outcome was contrasted with present models like support vector machine (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), and naive Bayes (NB). The advanced XGBoost model provides a better contrast enhancement from the raw CT image as well as predicts acute stroke effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of our study was to evaluate the yield of head CT in the ED in different age groups and different referral indications. Records of one large academic tertiary care ED were retrospectively reviewed for consecutive adult patients who underwent a head CT between January 1st 2017 and February 10th 2017. CT referral forms and interpretations were obtained and evaluated for demographics, referral indications, and findings. Scans were divided into three groups: acute findings, chronic findings , and normal. The cohort was divided into three age groups. Associations between referral indications and acute findings were calculated. Overall, 1536 of adult patients with ED head CT were included. Acute findings were found in 239/1536 (15.5%) of the CTs. The frequency of acute findings increased with age (p = 0.027). The most common acute findings were brain hemorrhage (32.6%), infarct (27.6%), and mass (23%). The top three referral indications were focal neurologic deficit (28%), trauma (24.7%), and headache (17.5%). The rates of positive acute findings for different referral indications were seizure 27%, confusion 20%, syncope 19%, focal neurologic deficit 16%, head injury 15%, headache 12%, and dizziness 8%. This study shows the yield of ED head CT for acute findings for different age groups and for different referral indications. The frequency of acute findings increased with age. Suspected seizure had the highest association with an acute finding, whereas dizziness had the lowest association. • The probability of a head CT referral in the ED increases with age. • Different referral indications for head CTs conducted in the ED have different yields for acute findings. • The probability for acute and chronic findings in head CTs conducted in the ED increases with age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal peripheral and coronary endothelial function has been associated with increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in cross-sectional retrospective and observational studies. However, prognostic value of routine clinical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of endothelial dysfunction on incident MACE in patients with non-obstructive coronary artery disease (NOCAD) remains unknown. Endothelial Function Guided Management in Patients with NOCAD (ENDOFIND) is a multicenter, randomized, patients-blinded, parallel-controlled, two-stage clinical trial evaluating the impact of routine clinical peripheral endothelial function testing on initiation and/or intensification of cardiovascular preventive therapies in Stage I, and on the risk of MACE in Stage II in patients with NOCAD. One thousand participants with NOCAD on clinically indicated coronary computed tomography or invasive angiography will be enrolled and randomized 1:1, after baseline peripheral endothelial function evaluation, to either endothelial function guided treatment group or standard of care control group. In Stage I, patients will be followed for 12 months and primary outcome will be the proportion of patients receiving prescriptions for cardiovascular evidence-based lipid, blood pressure and glucose lowering medications at the clinic visit immediately after endothelial function evaluation. Secondary outcomes are change in endothelial function measured as reactive hyperemia index and patients' adherence to evidence-based medications in 12 months. Study will be extended into Stage II where sample size and follow up duration will be reevaluated to ensure statistical power, and primary outcome will be incident MACE. ENDOFIND is proof-of-concept clinical trial of a disruptive endothelial function guided clinical intervention with potential benefits to NOCAD patients. ENDOFIND is a proof-of-concept clinical trial of a disruptive endothelial function guided clinical intervention with potential benefits to patients with no obstructive coronary artery disease (NOCAD). It is a multicenter, randomized, patients-blinded, parallel controlled two-stage clinical trial to evaluate the impact of routine clinical peripheral endothelial function testing on initiation and/or intensification of cardiovascular disease preventive therapies in Stage I, and on the risk of MACE in Stage II. • ENDOFIND is a clinical trial of peripheral endothelial function guided clinical intervention with potential benefits to NOCAD patients. • ENDOFIND is a proof-of-concept, multicenter, randomized, patients-blinded, parallel controlled two-stage clinical trial. • Stage I evaluates routine clinical peripheral endothelial function testing impact on initiation/intensification of CAD preventive therapies. • Stage Ⅱ evaluates impact of routine clinical peripheral endothelial function testing-guided therapy on MACE risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to assess an impact of instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR) on a graft failure after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). A total of 131 coronary arteries from 88 patients who underwent invasive coronary angiography, intracoronary pressure measurements, CABG, and scheduled follow-up coronary computed tomography angiography within one year were investigated. All studied arteries had FFR <0.80. The rate of graft failure was significantly higher in vessels with negative iFR (>0.89) than in those with positive iFR (<0.89) (25.7% vs. 7.3%, p = 0.012). The graft failure rates increased as the preoperative iFR values rose (iFR <0.80, 3.3%; iFR: 0.80–0.84, 5.6%; iFR: 0.85–0.89, 16.0%; iFR: 0.90–0.94, 28.0%; and iFR: 0.95–1.00, 50.0%; p = 0.002). A cut-off value of iFR to predict graft failures was determined as 0.84 by receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of 88%, 62%, 25%, 97%, and 66%, respectively. The risk of graft failure becomes higher, as the preoperative iFR increases. The graft failure is significantly more frequent when a bypass graft is anastomosed on vessels with negative iFR than those with positive iFR. • No study to date has determined whether preoperative iFR is associated with graft patency after CABG. • The rate of graft failure is significantly higher when anastomosed on vessels with negative iFR than those with positive iFR. • The higher the preoperative iFR is, the more risk of graft failure within 1 year after CABG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraoperative imaging is increasingly used by surgeons and has become an integral part of many surgical procedures. This study was performed to provide an overview of the current literature on the intraoperative use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging in maxillofacial surgery. A bibliographic search of PubMed was conducted in March 2020, without time limitation, using "intraoperative imaging" AND "maxillofacial surgery" AND "cone beam computed tomography" as key words. Ninety-one articles were found; after complete reading, 16 articles met the eligibility criteria and were analysed. The results showed that the majority of the indications were related to maxillofacial trauma, particularly zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures. Final verification with intraoperative CBCT before wound closure was the most common use of this device. However, innovative uses of intraoperative CBCT are expanding, such as CBCT coupling with mirror computational planning, and even the combined use of initial intraoperative CBCT acquisition with navigation. Immediate, fast, and easy evaluation of bone repositioning to avoid the need for further surgical revision is the main advantage of this technique. Imaging quality is comparable to that of multi-slice computed tomography, but with lower radiation exposure. Nevertheless, CBCT is still not widely available in maxillofacial centres, probably because of its cost, and perhaps because not everyone is aware of its advantages and versatility, which are reported in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical value of CT angiography (CTA), CT colonography (CTC), and image fusion in the preoperative evaluation of laparoscopic complete mesocolic excision (CME) for right colon cancer.Methods: In this randomized prospective study, 80 patients undergoing laparoscopic CME for right colon cancer were randomly divided into two groups: image fusion [the original images were reconstructed using CTA and CTC, then fused into three-dimensional images of the blood vessels and intestines (n = 40)] and control (without CTA and CTC reconstruction before surgery). All patients underwent plain and enhanced abdominal CT before surgery.Results: In the image fusion group, the gastrocolic trunk of Henle was present in 33 cases, and its branches originated from the colon vein, right gastroepiploic vein, and superior anterior pancreaticoduodenal vein. Among these patients, 5 exhibited the right gastroepiploic vein and superior anterior pancreaticoduodenal vein; 21 exhibited a gastrointestinal trunk consisting of 2 or 3 branches of the right gastroepiploic vein, right colon vein, and middle colon vein; and 7 exhibited 3 or 4 gastro-pancreatic and colon trunks consisting of the right colon vein, middle colon vein, right gastroepiploic vein, and superior anterior pancreaticoduodenal vein. The correspondence with the anatomy actually observed during surgery was 100%. Compared with the conventional CT group, the duration of the operation in the image fusion group was shorter, with reduced intraoperative bleeding, and more lymph node dissection. There were no significant differences in the incidence of complications and length of hospital stay between the two groups (p > 0.05).Conclusions: For laparoscopic CME for right colon cancer, CTA, CTC, and image fusion were effective preoperative evaluation methods, which avoided some unseen dangers in the operation process and led to better therapeutic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is growing evidence regarding chest X-ray and computed tomography (CT) findings for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). At present, the role of lung ultrasonography (LUS) has yet to be explored. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between LUS findings and chest CT in patients confirmed to have (positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction [RT-PCR]) or clinically highly suspected of having (dyspnea, fever, myasthenia, gastrointestinal symptoms, dry cough, ageusia or anosmia) COVID-19. This prospective study was carried out in the emergency department, where patients confirmed of having or clinically highly suspected of having COVID-19 were recruited and underwent chest CT and concurrent LUS exam. An experienced emergency department physician performed the LUS exam blind to the clinical history and results of the CT scan, which were reviewed by two radiologists in consensus for signs compatible with COVID-19 (bilateral ground-glass opacities in peripheral distribution). A compatible LUS exam was considered a bilateral pattern of B-lines, irregular pleural line and subpleural consolidations. Between March and April 2020, 51 patients were consecutively enrolled. The indication for CT was a negative or indeterminate RT-PCR test (49.0%) followed by suspicion of pulmonary embolism (41.2%). Radiologic signs compatible with COVID-19 were present in 37 patients (72.5%) on CT scan and 40 patients (78.4%) on LUS exam. The presence of LUS findings was correlated with a positive CT scan suggestive of COVID-19 (odds ratio: 13.3, 95% confidence interval: 4.5-39.6, p < 0.001) with a sensitivity of 100.0%, specificity of 78.6%, positive predictive value of 92.5% and negative predictive value of 100.0%. There was no missed diagnosis of COVID-19 with LUS compared with CT in our cohort. The correlation between LUS score and CT total severity score was good (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.803, 95% confidence interval: 0.60-0.90, p < 0.001). LUS exhibited similar accuracy compared with chest CT in the detection of lung abnormalities in COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the relationship between subcutaneous fat, visceral fat surface area (VFA), bladder wall fat distribution, and visceral adiposity index (VAI) as risk factors for overactive bladder (OAB) occurrence.Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study involved 157 participants was conducted. The participants were divided into 2 groups; study group (87 patients diagnosed with OAB) and control group (70 healthy participants). All participants were evaluated for OAB using short-form OABSS version. Physical examination including waist circumference (WC) measurement in addition to metabolic laboratory investigations (eg, High density lipoprotein (HDL), cholesterol, etc) were done. Study group underwent urodynamic testing. Using noncontrast spiral CT abdomen and pelvis, trunkal fat measurements and bladder wall fat distribution were detected. VAI was calculated for both females and males. Univariate and multivariate analyses were done to detect risk factors for OAB occurrence. Correlation between all factors and total OABSS and urodynamics was done.Results: The mean age ± SD was 40.4 ± 9 years. In multivariate analysis, increased VFA, higher cholesterol level, increased VAI and focal fat distribution at bladder wall were associated with 9.4, 1.98, 5.5, and 1.6 times higher risk for OAB occurrence. VAI and VFA were strongly correlated with total OABSS, DLPP, amplitude, and frequency of bladder detrusor contractions. On the other hand, WC and body mass index were not correlated significantly.Conclusion: Body mass index and WC are crude inaccurate methods correlated with OAB presence. Focal bladder wall fat distribution, higher VAI, higher VFA are novel risk factors for OAB occurrence. Both VAI and VFA are correlated significantly to total OABSS and urodynamics findings in patients with OAB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elliptical vibration texturing is a newly arising method for the fast and cost-effective generation of near-subwavelength micro-structures on metal surfaces. This study proposes a fabrication method for structurally colored basso-relievo by combining the surface sculpturing and elliptical vibration texturing in one-step machining. Synergistic modulations of both nominal cutting speed and depth-of-cut (DOC) in elliptical vibration texturing are applied to provide concave-convex topography and structural coloration. A new rendering strategy for the face turning configuration with an equidistant spiral tool path has been presented to improve the image rendering efficiency over the raster scan tool path. In addition, different from the conventional elliptical vibration texturing, the nominal DOC dynamically changes pixel by pixel in the proposed new process. In order to identify the effects of DOC and elliptical vibration trajectories on the surface quality and fidelity of generated gratings, grooving experiments have been conducted on brass samples to further the understanding of nonlinear tool-workpiece interactions. Finally, both raster scan and face turning tests have been performed on an ultraprecision platform with optimized process parameters. Structurally colored basso-relievos with high quality have been successfully demonstrated using the proposed fabrication method. • Structurally colored basso-relievos are demonstrated by modulated elliptical vibration texturing. • Synergistic modulation of depth-of-cut and cutting velocity achieves sculpturing and color rendering. • Machining strategies for both raster scan and face turning configurations are proposed. • Non-linear effects of tool-workpiece interaction are experimentally investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate volumetric analysis protocol for secondary alveolar cleft reconstruction is essential. It can help confirm favorable times for bone grafting, determine which graft material is more effective, and improve surgical techniques. This study aimed to introduce a novel protocol for precisely calculating the bone formation ratio (BF%) using computer-aided engineering. The helical computed tomography (CT) datasets of 14 patients who underwent alveolar cleft reconstruction was included in this study. CT scans performed preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively were evaluated by two investigators. Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) data were reconstructed as three-dimensional (3D) images using Mimics software and processed by Geomagic Wrap (2017). Using the Boolean operation, the newly formed bone of the alveolar cleft was segmented by identifying the differences between pre- and postoperative 3D images. The volumetric assessment and morphological analysis of the newly formed bone could be determined in a precise manner, the mean BF% was 47.7% ± 16.4%, the mean time required for calculating was 23.57 ± 3.64 min. For the difference in the volume of newly formed bone between the two observers, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.92, p < 0.001. This method is clinically practical and precise measurement, which has good reproducibility for evaluating outcome of different grafting materials for alveolar clefts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, 64-slice spiral computed tomography (CT) retrospective electrocardiographic (ECG) gating technology was used to perform coronary CT angiography scans. The aorta and aortic pulmonary artery diameter were measured quantitatively in healthy people and patients with hypertension and cerebrovascular disease. Corresponding aortic pulmonary artery ratios were obtained through calculation, and the changes of aortic diameter, aortic pulmonary artery ratio, and aortic diameter difference between different cardiac phases, ages, sexes, and levels of hypertension were discussed. Through research, it can be concluded that 64-row spiral CT scan combined with ECG gating technology can accurately measure the dynamic changes of the aortic diameter with the cardiac cycle. At the same time, the aortic diameter measured by multidetector CT scan combined with ECG gating technology and the phase difference between different phases can objectively reflect the degree of arterial damage in patients with hypertension; therefore, early screening of aortic diseases in patients with hypertension can be performed. Diagnosis to detect abnormalities as early as possible and start treatment as early as possible to prevent the disease from progressing and even affecting other tissues and organs can also be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the incidence and predisposing factors of preoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE), especially pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with ovarian cancer. This retrospective study included 387 patients with primary ovarian cancer, whose preoperative work up included both ultrasonography of lower extremity vein and spiral computed tomography pulmonary angiogram, from September 2013 to November 2016. SPSS 22 was used for statistical analyses. The incidence of preoperative VTE and PE was 13.4% (52 patients), 9.3%(36 patients), respectively. Both the univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that D-dimer (DDI) level, age, and massive ascites were associated with preoperative VTE. Moreover, DDI level (odds ratio [OR] 3.133, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.193–8.225, p =.02), massive ascites (OR 9.972, 95% CI 3.687–26.968, p <.001), and preoperative deep vein thrombosis (OR 5.977, 95% CI 2.073–17.228, p =.001) were independent predictors for preoperative PE. Additionally, the incidence of preoperative VTE and PE increased with increasing DDI levels (p <.001). DDI level < 1.5 μg/ml has 100% negative predictive value and 100% sensitivity for diagnosis of preoperative VTE and PE; however, DDI >5 μg/ml, the incidence of preoperative VTE and PE were 18.4% and 14.2% respectively. Moreover, DDI value was significantly correlated with preoperative PE volume (r = 0.746, p <.001). Preoperative VTE and PE are common events in patients with ovarian cancer. DDI level is a useful parameter for diagnosing and evaluating preoperative VTE and PE. • For ovarian cancer patients, the incidence of preoperative VTE and PE was 13.4% (52 patients), 9.3% (36 patients), respectively. • DDI level, massive ascites, and preoperative deep vein thrombosis were independent predictors for preoperative PE of ovarian cancer patients. • The incidence of preoperative VTE and PE increased with increasing DDI levels (p <.001), and DDI level < 1.5 μg/ml has 100% negative predictive value for diagnosis of preoperative PE/VTE in ovarian cancer patients. • DDI value was significantly correlated with preoperative PE volume (r = 0.746, p <.001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To report the epidemiological, clinical, and radiological characteristics of patients with COVID-19 in Xiaogan, Hubei, China.Materials and Methods: The complete clinical and imaging data of 114 confirmed COVID-19 patients treated in Xiaogan Hospital were analysed retrospectively. Data were gathered regarding the presence of chest computed tomography (CT) abnormalities; the distribution, morphology, density, location, and stage of abnormal shadows on chest CT; and observing the correlation between the severity of chest infection and lymphocyte ratio and blood oxygen saturation (SPO2) in patients.Results: Chest CT revealed abnormal lung shadows in 110 patients. Regarding lesion distribution, multi-lobe lesions in both lungs were present in most patients (80 cases; 72.7%). Lesions most frequently involved both the peripheral zone and the central zone (62 cases; 56.4%). Regarding lesion morphology, 56 cases (50.1%) demonstrated patchy shadows that were partially fused into large areas. Thirty cases showed ground-glass opacity (27.3%), 30 cases showed the consolidation change (27.3%), and the remaining 50 cases showed both types of changes (45.4%). The progressing stage was the most common stage (54 cases; 49.1%). CT results showed a negative correlation with SPO2 and lymphocyte numbers (p<0.05), with r-values of -0.446 and -0.780, respectively.Conclusion: Spiral CT is a sensitive examination method, which can be applied to make an early diagnosis and for evaluation of progression, with a diagnostic sensitivity and accuracy better than that of nucleic acid detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Several patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) have complex peripheral arterial disease (PAD) that increases risk of vascular complications and failure of vascular closure device (VCD). Endovascular bailout of failed VCD is performed through contralateral femoral access. Further due to multiple different anatomic reasons the contralateral femoral access and "up and over" approach is unavailable for endovascular bailout of the VCD failure. We evaluated a novel bailout technique of obtaining an additional access in ipsilateral common femoral artery (CFA) or superficial femoral artery (SFA) distal to the main CFA access used for TAVR device.Methods: We prospectively identified patients who were at high risk for VCD failure and had unavailable contralateral CFA approach from the pre-TAVR evaluation with multislice CT angiography. The data was collected prospectively for the TVT registry and retrospectively reviewed. All patients had an additional distal access obtained in the CFA or proximal SFA under direct fluoroscopy guidance after achieving main CFA access for TAVR. Using an inner 0.021″ micro-dilator from the 4-Fr micropuncture mini stick max access kit (AngioDynamics, Marlborough, MA) and a 200 cm long 0.018″ wire, the distal access was secured in place through the TAVR procedure. After completing the TAVR if the VCD gained successful hemostasis, the 0.021″ dilator was removed with manual pressure. If the VCD failed to achieve hemostasis, the distal access was upsized to a 7 Fr sheath for carrying out endovascular repair of the TAVR access. If the distal access was upsized to 7 Fr, that access was treated with VCD. The patients were monitored for acute in-hospital complication and followed for 6 months.Results: During 2017 & 2018, 97.4% of 186 TAVRs were performed via femoral approach at our center. Six patients met the criteria for high-risk access and non-availability of the contralateral "up and over" approach. Of the 6 patients enrolled in this prospective study, 3 required endovascular management of TAVR access because of failed VCDs and were treated with covered stents using the distal ipsilateral access. The remaining 3 patients had successful use of VCDs for the TAVR access and the prophylactic access with 0.021″ dilator was managed with manual pressure. None of the six patients suffered any further vascular complication or bleeding. At the 6-month follow up no vascular complications or clinically driven events were identified from the TAVR access or additional distal ipsilateral access.Conclusion: This novel technique of prophylactic ipsilateral distal femoral access can provide an alternative bailout strategy for patients at high risk of closure device failure and unavailable contralateral femoral approach during transfemoral TAVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) occasionally invades tracheal cartilages. We adapted a reconstructive procedure "modified spiral tracheoplasty" to extensive tracheal defect after resection of locally advanced thyroid cancer. Extensive window resection of tracheal wall was performed in a 72-year-old woman and a 48-year-old man with PTC invading intraluminal trachea. Remaining stumps of trachea were separated from the esophageal wall and were rotated by 90 degrees in opposite directions. Posterior and lateral walls were anastomosed and tracheocutaneous fistula was created to prevent postoperative airway obstruction. Postoperative course was uneventful in both cases. Tracheocutaneous fistula was successfully closed 3 to 4 months after the initial surgery. Modified spiral tracheoplasty is a safe and useful method to recreate a framework of trachea after extensive window resection for advanced thyroid cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the condylar positional changes after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) in patients with mandibular retrusion and those with mandibular prognathism. We also studied the correlation between the degree of matching of the condyle and fossa, and condylar displacement. Thirty patients with mandibular retrusion (n = 11) or mandibular prognathism (n = 19) who underwent BSSRO were included. The condylar position was assessed from spiral computed tomographic (CT) scans taken preoperatively, during the first postoperative week, and at least 6 months postoperatively. All data were measured by MIMICS 17.0 and analyzed by Student's t test and Pearson's correlation analysis. The size of the condyles of patients with mandibular retrusion was significantly less than those of patients with mandibular prognathism (491.5 (172.8) compared with 823.2 (212.0) mm3). The size of the glenoid fossa in those with mandibular retrusion (599.6 (110.4) mm3) and those with prognathism (597.6 (151.6) mm3) did not seem to differ. Postoperatively the condyles moved outwards, backwards, and downwards in both groups of patients. Correlation analysis between the condyle:fossa volume ratio and the condylar positional changes showed that a large condyle:fossa volume ratio correlated with the smaller positional changes in the condyle. The condylar position changed immediately after mandibular advancement and setback, and persisted in the long term. Larger condyles tended to have fewer positional changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we have constructed a handheld full-field optical coherence tomography (FFOCT) system with high spatial resolution, and the Michelson interferometer (served as compensating optical path) and Fizeau interferometer (served as detection) were mounted in series in this system. The expressions of the multiple scattered light decomposed as the sum of incoherent and coherent contribution were derived based on the diffusion equation and mutual coherence function, and the variations of resolution with imaging depth were derived by using the model of multiple scattering. Experiments were conducted on samples composed of the USAF 1951 resolution target covered by the onion slice and human finger-skin slice, respectively, to validate and evaluate the accuracy of our model. A method of image restoration is then presented in which the relation between the resolution and measuring depth and the simulated PSF in the absence of multiple scattering are employed. With the help of this method the lateral resolution of 2.2 μm and 3.9 μm were separately achieved in the onion slice (measuring depth of 64 μm) and human finger-skin slice (measuring depth of 60 μm), and more tiny structures in the en face image of human finger-skin and moth wings were visible. In addition, a novel method for estimating the values of mean free path and anisotropy of scattering medium was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Femtosecond laser for the manufacture of large thrust-to-weight ratio aero-engine fuel injection holes to avoid recast layers and cracking problems. • Two-step drilling method to remove oxide adhesion from the hole wall during the drilling process. • Two-step drilling reduces the sidewall roughness of the micro-hole by up to 8% of the conventional one-step drilling method. • Geometric features of periodic microstructures on the sidewalls of the micro-holes can be adjusted by optimizing the laser single pulse energy. In this work, a 1.5 mm thick GH3044 nickel-based superalloy is processed by femtosecond laser to obtain a micro-hole for the fuel nozzle of an aerospace engine with a large thrust-to-weight ratio. To address the issue of sidewall adhesion during micro-hole machining, a spiral drilling method implemented with a rotating wedge scanning module is used. Combined with a two-step drilling strategy, it achieves flexible removal of adhesion while ensuring machining efficiency and further improving the quality of drilling. The effect of different drilling strategies on the sidewall roughness of micro-holes is investigated. After process optimization, the roughness of the the micro-hole sidewalls is reduced to below Rq 0.4 μm, which is approximately 8% compared to the traditional one-step drilling strategy. Based on the EBSD analysis results, it is observed that the microstructure of the micro-hole sidewalls remains largely unchanged regardless of the drilling strategy employed. The analysis of the micro-hole sidewalls shows the presence of periodic microstructures. When aiming for low roughness, the geometric characteristics of these periodic microstructures can be adjusted by manipulating the laser's single pulse energy. These experimental findings present a new perspective for optimizing the femtosecond laser drilling process and provide theoretical support for future enhancements in the actual fuel injection effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spiral computed tomography (CT) scans, which are considered a high-contrast resolution, quick and cross-sectional imaging technique, have grown in popularity as a result of technological advancements. However, these advancements have brought with them the potential for significantly increased radiation doses to the patient. Consequently, many organizations recommended optimization and establishing diagnostic reference levels. The aim of the current study was to assess CT radiation dose and propose a local diagnostic reference level (LDRL) for the adult trunk [chest and abdomen] using CT dose parameters such as CT dose index volume (CTDI vol) and dose length product (DLP) as well as to compare the practices for aforementioned examinations between two hospitals in Taif and Abha cities in Saudi Arabia. Data from 428 patients (216 for abdomen and 212 for chest) who were examined in two hospitals in Taif and Abha City in Saudi Arabia from December 2022 to March 2023, are used in this study. The data for hospitals in Taif and Abha are presented as 'T' and 'A' throughout this manuscript. The parameters of exposure and slice thickness were recorded in a specially designed data sheet together with the gender, age and patients morphometric. Microsoft Excel version 2010 was used to analyze results and plot the figures. The LDRL was achieved from the third quartile of CTDIvol and DLP for each hospital and examination. The average DLP (mGy-cm) and CTDI vol (mGy) for the chest and abdomen were 243 mGy cm, 5.8 mGy and 549 mGy cm, 8.6 mGy respectively. The average effective dose (ED) for chest and abdomen were 5.10 and 21.10 mSv, respectively. The proposed LDRL for the chest and abdomen were 6.9 mGy (CTDIvol), 375 mGy-cm (DLP), 7.8 mGy (CTDIvol), and 747 (DLP) mGy-cm, respectively. Hospital 'A' irradiated patients with a higher dose for the abdomen exam than Hospital 'T', but both hospitals agreed on the amount of radiation dose received by patients for chest imaging. The proposed LDRL for two examinations was less than the DRL obtained from the literature. • Computed Tomography radiation doses for the chest and abdomen were assessed. • 428 adult patients who underwent chest and abdomen CT exams were examined. • Average effective dose for chest and abdomen were 5.10 and 21.10 mSv, respectively. • Suggested local diagnostic reference level was lower than the previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A review of the research status of laser interferometry based on vortex beams (LIVB). • The measurement principle, method and signal processing technique of LIVB are introduced. • Summarized the characteristics and measurement performance of the application of linear displacement, rotation, and surface parameters. • The limitations and outlook of the current study are summarized. Laser interferometry is favored for its non-contact, high-resolution, and dynamic range capabilities. Vortex beams can enhance accuracy and robustness with their degrees of freedom and spiral phase information without the need for excessive modifications to the interferometric optical path. Consequently, laser interferometry based on vortex beams (LIVB) has become one of the most effective optimization strategies. This paper reviews its research status, including measurement principles, methods, and signal processing techniques for linear displacement, rotation, and surface parameters. Furthermore, the review presents a comparative analysis of several representative measurement systems. Finally, it provides prospects for the development of LIVB, highlighting its high accuracy and robustness, as well as the trend of integrating multiple technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the clinical, imaging and pathological features of congenital infiltrating lipomatosis of the face (CILF) and to discuss whether it is a subtype of hemifacial hyperplasia (HH). Sixteen patients diagnosed with CILF were included in this study. All patients had undergone panoramic radiography and spiral CT examinations. Thirteen patients received biopsy, surgery treatment and pathological examination. The clinical documentation and imaging data were retrospectively reviewed. The cheeks (14/16), parotid glands (12/16), tongues (9/16), masticatory muscles (8/16) and the lips (7/16) were the most frequently affected soft tissue organs. The maxilla (14/16), zygoma (13/16), mandible (13/16) were involved among the maxillofacial bones. Dental malformations included macrodontia (8/16), poor formation of the roots (7/16), accelerated tooth germ development or premature eruption of permanent teeth (7/16) and missing of the permanent teeth (4/16). All malformations were restricted to one side of the face and did not trespass the middle line. Pathologically, CILF was featured by the diffuse infiltration of redundant mature adipose tissue into the tissue of the affected organ. CILF is a congenital developmental facial malformation characterized by infiltration of nonencapsulated, mature adipose tissue, resulting in facial soft and hard tissue hypertrophy and dental malformations in hemifacial structures. CILF could be considered as a subtype of HH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Identification of 12 osteological landmarks on CT. • Measurements of facial soft tissue thickness using cone beam CT. • Comparison with other facial reconstruction techniques. • Good repeatability of the techniques. Abstract The aim of this study was to obtain soft tissue thickness (STTs) of Caucasian males starting from 12 bone landmarks, to allow facial reconstruction and assign an identity to skeletal remains. When a skeleton is found without any circumstantial evidence of identity, through anthropological investigations it is possible to estimate age, sex, and race studying specific characteristics of bones. This first step of identification process helps investigators to narrow down the identity suppositions, but not always forensic analysis guarantees a final positive identification. Moreover, it is possible to rely on facial reconstruction trying to reproduce the likely features of the face from the skull. The obtained images could be used as a support in recognition by relatives who could provide photos and other data to carry out a comparative analysis. Furthermore, identity can be confirmed by conventional identification methods such as DNA profiling, odontological identification, and radiological comparison. Forensic facial reconstruction (FFR) is based on the bone surface that conditions the facial physiognomy. Analyzing cone beam CT (CBCT) scans of 30 Caucasian males, average STTs values were obtained. CBCT, compared with the conventional spiral CT, has much lower radiation doses, lower costs, high spatial resolution and focuses on head and neck. The obtained results were compared with existing literature and databases and were analyzed by descriptive statistics. Two researchers repeated measurements in different times to assess the reliability of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]