The influence of a novel edge enhancement software on image quality of DR hand images of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Optimization of Postprocessing parameters for abdominal Forensic CT scans

Aim

Postmortem Computed Tomography (PMCT) is gradually introduced at forensic institutes. Image reconstruction software can increase diagnostic potential in CT by increasing distinction between structures and reduction of artifacts. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate novel image reconstruction parameters for postmortem conditions, to increase image quality and diagnostic potential of CT scans.

Method

Twenty PMCT scans of deceased hereof two in severe decay were subjected to four reconstruction techniques: a standard reconstruction algorithm, the detail reconstruction algorithm and two novel algorithms based on the standard algorithm, but with different Hounsfield settings. Image quality was evaluated by visual grading analysis (VGA) by four forensic radiologist observers.

Results

The VGA did not prove that any of the reconstruction techniques were superior to the others. For standard and detail, the two pre-defined reconstruction algorithms, VGA scores were indiscernible and were superior to the equally indiscernible Hounsfield reconstructions on parameters translated into Sharpness and Low Contrast Resolution. The two alternative Hounsfield settings were superior with respect to Noise and Artifacts/Beam Hardening.

Conclusion

The study elucidates the possiblity for multiple reconstructions specialized for PMCT conditions, to accommodate the special conditions when working with the deceased. Despite the lack of clear improvements in the tested reconstructions, this study provides an insight into some of the possibilities of improving PMCT quality using reconstruction techniques.

Can advanced edge enhancement software improve image quality to visualise tubes, catheters and wires in digital chest radiographs?

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to test whether Advanced Edge Enhancement (AEE) software could improve the localisation of tubes, catheters or wires, while also affecting the overall image quality in chest x-rays (CXR).

METHODS

In total, 50 retrospective CXRs were included. All images were obtained utilising the Canon X-ray system (CANON/Arcoma Precision T3 DR System, Canon Europe, Amsterdam, NL) with a CXDI-810C wireless detector. A clinical image, plus three additional AEE algorithms were applied using post processing (two intensity variations 1 and 4) on all CXRs totalling 350 different images. Three radiologists evaluated the images using a subjective Absolute Visual Grading Analysis (VGA). The clinical images used in post processing were not applied as reference in the analysis. Each radiologist graded the images separately in a randomized order, with a score of three indicating suitability for diagnostic assessment.

RESULTS

The three AEE algorithms contributed to an overall improvement (average 16-49%) in visualisation of tube, catheter or wire on CXR images. The Mann-Whitney U tests showed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) improvement in contrast resolution and sharpness, indicating an increased ability to differentiate tubes, wires or catheters tips from surrounding tissues. For the noise criterion, not applying any AEE algorithm showed a significantly higher homogeneity in soft tissue (p < 0.001), reducing the ability to visualise soft tissue. The high-intensity catheter algorithm was the only algorithm to achieve a statistically significant (p = 0.017) increase in the ability to differentiate pulmonary tissues of similar density.

CONCLUSION

An overall improvement in the visualisation of tube, catheter and wire placement was obtained using the three AEE-algorithms. The bone and catheter algorithms showed the highest consistency, with the small structure algorithm underperforming in resolution and low contrast resolution. In general, image noise increased regardless of algorithm type or applied intensity. The AEE-algorithms should therefore be seen as a supplementary tool to the clinical image protocol, while having the potential to improve image quality to specific clinical situations.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

AEE filtered images appear to be a supplement to the current practice of using CXRs in the diagnosis in placement of catheters, tubes and wires in the chest region. The use of AEE-algorithms has the potential to improve the daily work in clinical practice, which serves the basis for further investigation of its effect on radiographic practices.

Impacts of Low-Dose Total Glycosides of Tripterygium wilfordii plus Methotrexate on Immunological Function and Inflammation Level in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Purpose

This research mainly clarifies the impacts of low-dose- (LD-) total glycosides of Tripterygium wilfordii (GTW) plus methotrexate (MTX) on immunological function and inflammation level in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We enrolled 106 RA patients treated in Yanbian University Hospital between July 2019 and July 2021, including 56 cases (research group) intervened by LD-total GTW plus MTX and 50 cases (control group) treated with MTX, in addition to conventional treatment given to both groups. The improvement in immunological function (immunoglobulin (Ig) A, IgG, and IgM), inflammatory cytokines (ICs; C-reaction protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6)), incidence of adverse reactions (ARs), joint function, and patient satisfaction were observed and compared.

Results

Statistical better improvements of immunological function, ICs, and joint function were observed in the research group compared with the control group. Besides, patient satisfaction was higher and the incidence of ARs was lower in the research group.

Conclusions

LD-total GTW plus MTX is highly effective and safe in enhancing the immunity, lowering the inflammation level, and improving the joint function of RA patients.