Network-Based Approach for Modeling and Analyzing Coronary Angiography

Significant intra-observer and inter-observer variability in the interpretation of coronary angiograms are reported. This variability is in part due to the common practices that rely on performing visual inspections by specialists (e.g., the thickness of coronaries). Quantitative Coronary Angiography (QCA) approaches are emerging to minimize observer's error and furthermore perform predictions and analysis on angiography images. However, QCA approaches suffer from the same problem as they mainly rely on performing visual inspections by utilizing image processing techniques. In this work, we propose an approach to model and analyze the entire cardiovascular tree as a complex network derived from coronary angiography images. This approach enables to analyze the graph structure of coronary arteries. We conduct the assessments of network integration, degree distribution, and controllability on a healthy and a diseased coronary angiogram. Through our discussion and assessments, we propose modeling the cardiovascular system as a complex network is an essential phase to fully automate the interpretation of coronary angiographic images. We show how network science can provide a new perspective to look at coronary angiograms

Does eScience need digital libraries?

eScience has emerged as an important framework for dramatically rethinking the conduct of scientific research using information technology. There is an unparalleled opportunity for the international eScience and digital library communities to create shared infrastructure to support the conduct of science from end-to-end; i.e., from hypothesis generation, to collecting and analyzing scientific data, to the reporting of research outcomes, and the inclusion of scientific data and models in teaching and learning processes. For this vision to be realized, the two communities must establish a shared vision and research agenda encompassing several critical dimensions, including differences in theoretical and methodological approaches, and collaboration goals. Additionally, for the benefits of eScience and digital libraries to be fully realized, it is vital to establish a shared vision of the broader impact of this work for educators, learners, and the general public