Robust color histogram descriptors for video segment retrieval and identification.

Effective and efficient representation of color features of multiple video frames or pictures is an important yet challenging task for visual information management systems. Key frame-based methods to represent the color features of a group of frames (GoF) are highly dependent on the selection criterion of the representative frame(s), and may lead to unreliable results. We present various histogram-based color descriptors to reliably capture and represent the color properties of multiple images or a GoF.

The effect of mandibular advancement appliances on awake upper airway and masticatory muscle activity in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea.

Background: There is little understanding of how dental appliances, designed to posture the mandible forwards, act on pharyngeal airway dilatory and masticatory muscles in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This study evaluates, in a prospective cohort design, the effect of mandibular advancement splints (MAS) on awake genioglossus (GG), geniohyoid (GH) and masseter (M) muscle activity.

Methods: Fifty OSA patients received a custom-made removable Herbst MAS appliance, adjusted for maximum therapeutic benefit, as judged by subjective improvement.

Modulation of mastication during experimental loosening of complete dentures.

Purpose: Suction is achieved when complete dentures are first fitted, but it fades during the months following insertion, when it is increasingly complemented by muscular denture control. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the extent to which patterns of mastication are altered by experimental failure of physical retention.

Materials And Methods: Seven edentulous volunteers had maxillary replica dentures made, with fine tubes incorporated so that alternating positive and negative air pressure could be generated under the fitting surface.

Effects of attachment type on the mobility of implant-stabilized overdentures--an in vitro study.

Purpose: To stabilize overdentures, a wide range of attachments to implants is suggested. Although there is evidence that denture stability is an important factor for patient satisfaction, there are no data on how these attachments may reduce denture mobility. It was the purpose of this study to compare the effects of different types of attachments on the mobility of implant-stabilized overdentures in vitro, designing a measurement device that could also be used in vivo.

Distal movement of buccal segments with the "en masse" removable appliance: its value in treating patients with mild Class II, Division 1 malocclusion. Part II: the model measuring system and results.

The model of 25 children with mild Class II, Division 1 malocclusions who had their upper buccal segments moved distally with an en masse appliance were measured at the beginning of treatment and at the completion of buccal segment retraction. A reflex microscope, interfaced to a personal computer, was adapted for this purpose. A custom-made jig and linear stepping motor permitted the recording of both buccal and incisal measurements of the teeth in occlusion, as well as individual arch parameters.