Pixel signal-to-noise ratio is one accepted measure of image quality for predicting observer performance in medical imaging. We have found, however, that images with equal pixel signal-to-noise ratio (SNRp) but different correlation properties give quite different observer-performance measures for a simple detection experiment. The SNR at the output of an ideal detector with the ability to prewhiten the noise is also a poor predictor of human performance for disk signals in high-pass noise. We have found constant observer efficiencies for humans relative to the performance of a nonprewhitening detector for this task.

Several methods have been described in the literature to both evaluate and document progression in keratoconus, but there is no consistent or clear definition of ectasia progression. The authors describe how modern corneal tomography, including both anterior and posterior elevation and pachymetric data can be used to screen for ectatic progression, and how software programs such as the Enhanced Reference Surface and the Belin-Ambrosio Enhanced Ectasia Display (BAD) can be employed to detect earlier changes. Additionally, in order to describe specific quantitative values that can be used as progression determinants, the normal noise measurement of the three parameters (corneal thickness at the thinnest point, anterior and posterior radius of curvature (ARC, PRC) taken from the 3.0 mm optical zone centered on the thinnest point), was assessed. These values were obtained by imaging five normal patients using three different technicians on three separate days. The 95 % and 80 % one-sided confidence intervals for all three parameters were surprisingly small (7.88/4.03 μm for corneal thickness, 0.024/0.012 mm for ARC, and 0.083/0.042 mm for PRC), suggesting that they may perform well as progression determinants.

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Several methods have been described to both evaluate and document progression in keratoconus and to show efficacy of cross-linking, however, there are no consistent generally accepted parameters. Modern corneal tomography, including both anterior and posterior elevation and pachymetric data can be used to screen for ectatic progression, be employed to detect earlier change and additionally to show efficacy of new treatment modalities, such as crosslinking.To describe specific quantitative values that can be used as progression and efficacy determinants, the normal noise measurements of the three parameters used in the ABCD keratoconus classification (corneal thickness at the thinnest point, anterior and posterior radius of curvature taken from the 3.0 mm optical zone centered on the thinnest point), were determined. Values were obtained from both a normal population and a known keratoconic population. The 80 and 95% one-sided confidence intervals for all three parameters were surprisingly small, suggesting that they may perform well as progression and efficacy determinants.

Blacks, Hispanics, and other racial minorities in the United States were observed to exhibit significantly higher in-hospital sepsis-related respiratory failure associated mortality when compared with non-Hispanic whites.