Arts et Métiers ParisTech

About: Arts et Métiers ParisTech is a education organization based out in Paris, France. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Finite element method & Machining. The organization has 3946 authors who have published 6693 publications receiving 142083 citations. The organization is also known as: École nationale supérieure d'arts et métiers & ENSAM.

Three-dimensional surface rendering reconstruction of scoliotic vertebrae using a non stereo-corresponding points technique

Abstract: The medical imaging techniques that allow a three-dimensional (3D) surface rendering reconstruction, which is usually required by the clinician when dealing with scoliotic patients, are computed tomography (CT) and stereoradiography. However, CT cannot provide a 3D rendering of the whole spine because of the high irradiating dose, while the stereoradiographic 3D reconstruction techniques, which use an algorithm derived from the direct linear transformation (DLT), are usually limited in accuracy because of the small number of corresponding anatomical landmarks identifiable on both radiographs. The purpose of the present study is to validate a recent biplanar 3D surface rendering reconstruction technique on scoliotic vertebrae. This technique, called "non stereo-corresponding points" (NSCP), has already been tested on non-pathologic dry cervical vertebrae and frozen lumbar specimens, and the results have proved very encouraging. Since scoliosis is a 3D deformity of the vertebrae and of the global spine, such a technique could be a very useful clinical tool for the diagnostic, follow-up and surgical planning when dealing with scoliotic patients. The validation of the NSCP technique on scoliotic patients was performed on 58 scoliotic vertebrae in 14 patients, by comparison with the CT scan 3D rendering technique. The results of this study show mean errors of 1.5 mm. On the basis of this study, we can conclude that the NSCP 3D reconstruction technique is a definite improvement over existing techniques, and can serve as a useful diagnosis tool in scoliosis. However, the results of the technique still need to be optimized for use in geometrical modeling.

Reciprocal recurrent selection applied to Coffea canephora Pierre. I. Characterization and evaluation of breeding populations and value of intergroup hybrids

Abstract: Two breeding populations have been identified with Coffea canephora, based on geographical and genetic differences: the Guinean group from West Africa and the Congolese group from central Africa. A reciprocal recurrent selection programme based on these groups was initiated in Cote d'Ivoire in 1984. Genotypes of both groups available in field collections are either of cultivated or wild origin. Genotypic and phenotypic variability was evaluated within and between the groups for the following characteristics: isozyme patterns, architecture, drought tolerance and vigour, technological and organoleptic traits, pest and disease resistance. Variation between and within groups was found to be large. Based on isozyme analysis and phenotypic observations, two subgroups were identified within the Congolese group. Phenotypic values of parents and testers used in the first cycle of reciprocal recurrent selection are presented. Results of two intergroup hybrid trials indicate high yield and vigour for these hybrids compared to intragroup hybrids, justifying the reciprocal selection approach. Furthermore, the variation observed indicates that recurrent selection would allow progress for selection traits for both populations and intergroup hybrids.