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Connecticut Short Term Medical Insurance Plans
from HCC Life Insurance Company
Our international provider network includes over 82,000 health care professionals and facilities in Connecticut alone! Find a Doctor or get more details regarding all the benefits available in Connecticut with our short-term medical insurance plan and get a personalized quote.
General STM Benefits
- Includes Coverage in Canada
- Deductible Choices: $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000 and $7,500
- No Referrals Needed for Specialists Except Physical Therapy
- No Primary Care Physician Required
- Out-of-Network Coverage
- Choice of 80/20% or 50/50% Coinsurance
- Choice of Coverage Maximum up to $2,000,000 Lifetime
- Hospital Inpatient Prescription Drug Coverage
- Lab/X-ray, Emergency Room, Outpatient Surgery & Hospitalization Coverage
Connecticut Benefits
- Periodic Mammogram Exams Beginning at Age 35
- Well-Child Care up to Age 6
- Early Intervention Services For Dependent Children up to Age 3
- Appliances to Treat Cleft Palate
- Hearing Aids for Children up to Age 12
- Neuropsychological Testing for Cognitive or Developmental Delay for Children with Cancer
- Accidental Poisoning Care
- Orthodontic Appliances for the Treatment of Craniofacial Disorders for Children up to Age 18
- Diabetes Supplies and Education
- Prostate Screening Beginning at Age 50 or Younger with Family History
- Lyme Disease Treatment
- Pain Management Services
- Leukemia Treatment
- Appliances and Supplies for Ostomy Surgery
- Coverage for Medical complications of Alcoholism
- Blood Lead Screenings
- Cancer Clinical Trial Participation
- Speech Therapy for Individuals with Autism
- Amino Acid-Modified Food Products for the Treatment of Inherited Metabolic Diseases
- Accidental Poisoning Treatment
- Mental Health Coverage
Connecticut Insurance Department Resource: http://www.ct.gov/cid/cwp/view.asp?q=397764
Get more details regarding all the benefits available in Connecticut with our short-term medical insurance plan and get a personalized quote.
There are transitional periods in life that can leave you without medical coverage for a brief time. HCC Medical Insurance Services understands your need for peace of mind about health insurance coverage during uncertain times. Click below to read more about how Short Term Medical insurance can fit your needs in any stage of life:


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LG Teams Up With BART to Encourage Cell Phone Recycling
Like us on Facebook
I've already provided some simple ways to go green, but LG is making it really easy with their ecoMobilization movement because you can either drop off your phone, chargers, or accessories at one of these boxes, or text the word ECO to 57895 and reply to the text with your mailing addy. This way, a prepaid package will be delivered to your house so you can mail it away yourself and recycle your phone no matter where you live! Although I am hoping that the Ecomobilize bins pop up in subway stations across the country.

subset: commoncrawl


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Clean & Clear Essentials Lip Care Natural Rosy Gloss Review & Swatches
Clean & Clear Essentials Lip Care Naturally Rosy Gloss is a lovely little no frills gloss released in Asia (I got mine from Singapore).
Why oh why do we never get the cool stuff? Doesn't Clean & Clear US think we can handle a cute little lipgloss?
Thank the makeup gods for online shopping!
Take a look!
Clean & Clear Essentials Lip Care Naturally Rosy Gloss is a moisturizing gloss and lip treatment with a hint of tint.
This is actually rather cute and I'd totally purchase if we had it here in the states, damn shame we don't. The formula is a non-sticky glossy texture with a high shine finish that not only moisturizers lips but acts as a gloss of sorts as well. It has a rather fabulous shine to it that reeks higher end rather than a mere cheaply purchased drugstore lip treatment.
The tint is a bit on the boring side as it doesn't really give a "naturally rosy" look to lips but it does work fabulously over lip stains or lipsticks if you're wanting a glossier finish on either of those products. This has a faint fruity perfume taste that I found pleasant but beware if you're sensitive as I find the fragrance and taste remain through the wear without fully fading.
The joy here is obviously the fact that it not only offers a boost in moisture but acts as a lipgloss and a lip treatment all in one.
Loves this one.
Muse Approved for purchase!
I had a friend pick me it up from Singapore but I've seen many of the Clean & Clear Essentials Lip Care products all over E-bay for fairly reasonable prices.
This product was purchased
by the Muse for review purposes.
Read my full disclosure statement here.
6/14/12 18:41 Hillarie:
Ahhhh,I hate how all the good stuff is overseas :-/
It's interesting that Clean & Clear has a lip gloss, though!
6/15/12 16:42 SuzB:
I also think it's a little random that Clean & Clear would have a lip gloss, since I associate the brand with acne treatment. I like the idea of a lip gloss and treatment in one, but I'm not quite interested enough to track it down on eBay. I might give it a try if it showed up in US drugstores.
6/16/12 0:13 Tiffany Martin:
WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANT. Thank you for the review!
6/20/12 11:11 Dawn:
I've overlooked this so many times in Watsons, but after this review…think I'll pick it up the next time I'm at Watsons!:D
You should try Lip Ice's Sheer Colour lip treatment(or something like that).Its a clear balm that changes to pink when applied and the colour leaves a stain,so I use it as a lipstain.
4/24/15 5:48 Isthi:
OH MY!!!!I hope C&C Indonesia want to sell it
thank you for review^^


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By Gerry Mak in New Products on Friday 2 September 2011
We posted once about designer Maximo Riera's octopus chair. Now he added a rhino and a walrus to his series of jet-black animal chairs.
Read more
Share your favourite cultural finds with the Lost At E Minor community and become famous in the process. Well, kinda.
by Inigo del Castillo
© 2015 Lost at E Minor | Image Attribution | Privacy Policy


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Flowerbomb Extreme by Viktor & Rolf for Women
designer's notes
Launched by the design house of Viktor & Rolf in 2007, Flowerbomb Extreme for Women is recommended for romantic use.
color: N/A Product Category: Fragrance Design House: Viktor & Rolf Introduced In: 2007 Recommended Use: romantic Fragrance Notes: Jasmine, Bergamot, White Flowers, Osmanthus, Vanilla Amber This item cannot be shipped 2nd day air. Allow 1-2 additional shipping days for beauty and fragrance items. This item cannot be shipped outside of the United States. quality material; France; style# 312466701


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The Jonzun Crew - Lost in Space (Tommy Boy) 1983. Afrika Bambaataa is oftentimes credited with being the inventor and chief innovator of Electro, a spinoff of synth-pop and rap music that followed on the foot heels of the early party jams and that is all well and good. He was. I remember when Planet Rock hit. People went nuts. Next thing you know they were playing Pocket Calculator and Tainted Love in heavy rotation on z100 in Saint Louis. So ironically my first introduction to new wave music was on a black radio station. Next up came Scorpio by Grandmaster Flash which was just insanely insane. But the cream of the crop, the greatest of all Electro releases in my humble opinion was and is this here release by the Jonzun Crew.
Suffice it to say that these guys were like some unholy alliance of Parliament and Kraftwerk. They were so completely and utterly ridiculous that I just had to respect it. By this point I had moved on to new wave and punk rock. I may have already started listening to hardcore when this came out. But I saw the video for We Are The Jonzun Crew on Night Flight one night and I just had to take notice. Here was a band that was so completely over-the-top that they could not in any way be ignored.
The record has long been out of print and is fetchin' some ridiculous prices out there in the interwebs. Let's remedy this. It's time for us all to rock it, sock it, in the pocket.


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by SonniesEdge on Jan.02, 2012, under Trans
So, if you're aware of trans stuff you've probably seen this advert going around. Predictably, lots of trans people have cried "transphobia". But is it really transphobic?
I'll tell you what I saw, first of all. I saw an advert that had a transvestite or drag queen doing their makeup in front of a mirror, alongside a, presumebly, cis woman*. The drag queen and cis woman compete over looks, pouting, applying makeup, rearranging their tits, with the cis woman seemingly beaten every time. However, the cis woman pulls out her trump card – a carton of LibraX branded tampons. "Hey", her smile says, "you may have better** makeup, a bigger pout and longer legs, but I can bleed out of my cunt". The drag queen scowls, picks up her handbag and walks off in a huff.
So yeah, it's horrible, vile, biological essentialism. It's reducing women to their biology – a woman's status in society is defined by her ability to reproduce. It's patriarchy-enforcing, reminding us that women should apply minerals to their faces in order to be acceptable. And yes, implying that a real woman is defined by her ability to menstruate it automatically excludes trans women, as well as older and post-hysterectomy cis women which is horribly offenisve. But to call it transphobic? Yes, it's offensive to trans women. But that's because it's offensive to all women.
If we cry transphobia every time a piece of media is sexist then we're rapidly going to hit a Cry Wolf situation, and we are going to annoy our allies. And we're going to need all the allies we can in the coming years.
* Hey, nothing says she was cis. She could be a trans woman trying to one-up a drag queen.
** far more glittery and tacky
3 Comments for this entry
January 2nd, 2012 on 21:04
I think the drag queen won.
1. I don't think it's any advantage to have to menstruate.
2. I'm sure the drag queen can is 10-times better in bed.
Nobody Important
January 2nd, 2012 on 22:39
I also got the impression that it was a drag queen rather than a transwoman, and the tacky, glittery makeup was a huge clue. Ditto for the obvious cheap wig. So no, I don't feel the commercial was transphobic at all.
I swear, it seems like every time a man in a dress appears on TV, the trans activists swarm, screaming "transphobia!!!" That's probably because most of those activists are themselves just men in dresses.
Is it any wonder that so many of us go stealth?


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Maui police say a man from Wichita, Kansas died after he was found floating face down in waters off Kaanapali on Sunday.
It happened just before 12:30 p.m. in an area called "Black Rock."
Police say first responders attempted to revive the man, but he died at the scene.
The man was identified as 55-year-old Ronald Sauber.
The cause of death has not been determined pending autopsy results.


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Welcome to NAIAS
, your e-news connection to NAIAS 2014 and your link to some of the latest news, highlights and happenings surrounding the show.
NAIAS 2014 Prepares to Host Rock-Solid Lineup of Intros
Navigating NAIAS 2014
NAIAS Ramps Up Social Media
Charity Preview Looks to Raise Over $4 Million for Children
Media Preview Set for The Gallery
Millions to Experience NAIAS on NBC Sports Special
New Motorsports Panel Joins Preview Week Lineup
Industry Gears Up for a Full Calendar of Events
An Auto Show Moment with Bob and Scott
NACTOY Prepares to Announce 2014 Winners at NAIAS
Auto Show Passport Takes Car Lovers Around the World
Another Auto Show Moment with Bob and Scott
NAIAS Welcomes New Sponsors
NAIAS 2014 Prepares to Host Rock-Solid Lineup of Intros
NAIAS 2014 is now just weeks away, and show organizers have revealed a full, two-day
press conference schedule
that promises to be filled with worldwide and North American reveals.
Here's a peek at what's planned:*
*More intros are planned, but have not been publicly announced by auto manufacturers.
Back to top
Navigating NAIAS 2014 During
Preview Week
Here are some resources to help with navigating the show and planning your schedule for the press conferences and many other significant industry events and awards taking place during NAIAS.
Press Conference Schedule
– A look at the full, two-day press conference schedule, beginning with the opening of the Media Credentialing Office at 6:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 13.
Floor Plan
– Review the layout of the NAIAS show floor.
Calendar of Events
– A list of important industry events and award programs that have become synonymous with the NAIAS.
Back to top
NAIAS Ramps Up Social Media
Looking to grow and enhance its presence throughout the world of social media, NAIAS has named metro Detroit-based
Embark Digital
as its social media partner for press week. Embark will not only assist in growing the show's social following, but will help ensure followers enjoy a unique and rewarding online experience. Embark's main focus will be to assist in the management of all initiatives through NAIAS's social channels, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Embark will also work with OEMs, suppliers and show sponsors to help coordinate their social media efforts to amplify NAIAS across the globe. Sponsoring this new social media initiative is
Ally Auto
, the NAIAS Official Social Media Sponsor of Preview Week. Follow Ally Auto on
Back to top
Charity Preview Looks to Raise Over
$4 Million for Children
One of the most exclusive, high-profile events in the nation,
Charity Preview
is poised to raise more than $4 million for a wide range of southeastern
Michigan children's charities
. With the longstanding tradition of being "the place" to be the night before the opening of the Public Show, plus the recently announced "An Evening with
Sheryl Crow
" on the Atrium stage and the party of the year -- Studio 25 at NAIAS, the event is expected to be a sellout, report NAIAS organizers. For more information on Charity Preview tickets,
click here
or contact 888.838.7500. Charity Preview is presented by
Charter One
RBS Citizens
Back to top
Media Preview Set for The Gallery
NAIAS-credentialed media will once again have the exclusive opportunity to experience
The Gallery
at a special media preview on Sunday, Jan. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon at the MGM Grand Detroit. First held in 2007, The Gallery features over two dozen of the world's sexist ultra-luxury and performance vehicles from some of the industry's most prestigious marques, including Lamborghini, Ferrari, Maserati and Rolls-Royce. Although The Gallery's premiere on Saturday, Jan. 11 is a private, invitation-only gathering, NAIAS officials are making a limited number of tickets available for the event. Tickets are priced at $500 each. More information about the event and tickets can be obtained by contacting 248.593.9740. Sponsors for The Gallery are
Tag Heur
, and
MGM Grand Detroit
Back to top
Millions to Experience NAIAS on NBC Sports Special
For the 10th year, viewers from across the nation will experience the best of the NAIAS by tuning in to NBC Sports coverage of the North American International Auto Show Special, scheduled to air on Saturday, Jan. 25 from 1-2 p.m. EST. Hosted by Marty Snider, who will be joined by NBC Motor Sports reporters Kelli Stavast, Kevin Lee and Townsend Bell, the one-hour NAIAS special will feature the hottest and most exciting vehicles unveiled at the show, as well as the technology that drives them. This year's show will re-air in February on NBCSN. Broadcast of the 2013 NBC Sports International Auto Show special drew more than two million viewers.
Back to top
New Motorsports Panel Joins Preview Week Lineup
An all-new panel discussion, "Start Line to Finish Line: Engineers and Drivers talk Technology, Innovation, Racing and Fan Engagement in NASCAR," hosted by
Michigan International Speedway
(MIS), will join the roster of industry symposiums held during the NAIAS. Scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 15, the program will feature engineers from Ford, Chevrolet and Toyota discussing how they apply research, development and technology to "Win on Sunday; sell on Monday." The program will also feature a second panel of drivers and executives from MIS and
who will share how they energize their fan base and drive fan engagement. For additional information, contact MIS Senior Director of Communications Sammie Lukaskiewicz at 517.592.1208 or
Back to top
Industry Gears Up for a Full Calendar of Events
NAIAS will again be the backdrop for a number of "must-attend" industry events. Kicking off auto show week will be the
Society of Automotive Analysts 27th Annual Automotive Outlook Conference
on Sunday, Jan. 12. Keynoter will be Jim Lentz, CEO, North America Region, Toyota Motor North America. Also on Jan. 12 will be the
18th Annual Urban Wheel Awards
, the Official Multicultural Event of the NAIAS. Honoring companies and individuals who have made significant progress in embracing diversity, the Urban Wheel Awards will be hosted by actor Morris Chestnut. Featuring more than 20 industry speakers, the
Automotive News World Congress
will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 14 – Wednesday, Jan 15. The 38th annual program will feature top executives sharing their strategies for managing ongoing global challenges and growth opportunities.
EyesOn Design Awards
– recognizing the best production and concept vehicles making their debut at NAIAS – will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 14.
The One Show
will be back at NAIAS 2014 on Tuesday, Jan. 14 -- this time to announce its inaugural Automobile Advertising of the Year Awards.
will host its Supplier Symposium on Wednesday, Jan 15, featuring multiple panels of OEM and supplier executives as well as industry analysts. John McElroy, host of "Autoline" and WWJ commentator, will lead the discussions. The
Detroit Free Press Automotive Leadership Awards
will be held on Thursday, Jan. 16. The
Multicultural Media Luncheon
will hold its 4th annual event on Thursday, Jan. 16, honoring ethnic groups for their achievements in the auto industry.
will hold its Auto Show Breakfast on Friday, Jan. 17, featuring keynote speaker Ford Motor Company COO Mark Fields.
Back to top
An Auto Show Moment with Bob
and Scott
-Bob Shuman, Chairman of NAIAS 2014
Back to top
NACTOY Prepares to Announce 2014 Winners at NAIAS
Forty-eight automotive journalists from the United States and Canada have voted the Cadillac CTS, Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and Mazda3 finalists for the
2014 North American Car of the Year
. They also named the Acura MDX, Chevrolet Silverado and Jeep Cherokee the finalists for the
2014 North American Truck/Utility of the Year
. Now there will be a second round of voting, with the two winners remaining a secret until NACTOY's news conference on Monday, Jan. 13 at the NAIAS. At the 2013 show, the Cadillac ATS took the North American Car of the Year honors, while the Ram 1500 captured the title of North American Truck/Utility of the Year.
Back to top
Auto Show Passport Takes Car Lovers Around the World
Showcasing the world's premiere auto shows, including Detroit, Paris, Geneva, Frankfurt, Beijing, Shanghai, Tokyo and beyond, the newly introduced Auto Show Passport will bring the energy and excitement of these international shows to auto aficionados around the world with a simple touch of a finger.
Download New Passport App Here
The new
Auto Show Passport App
– for smart phones and iPads – will take car enthusiasts to other parts of the world, not only enabling them to preview concept cars and international debuts worldwide, but also offering them show descriptions and a flavor for the local culture of the auto show host cities. Created by the NAIAS and sponsored by
Michelin North America
Delphi Automotive
, the App is available for free download at
with links to Apple iTunes and Google Play Store. The Auto Show Passport includes more than 2,600 individual photos from 18 of the world's most important auto shows and events.
Back to top
Another Auto Show Moment with Bob and Scott
-Scott LaRiche, Vice Chairman of NAIAS 2014
Back to top
NAIAS 2014 Announces Premier Sponsors
NAIAS is pleased to welcome its Premier Sponsor, the highest level of affiliation with the show. Premier Sponsors participate with NAIAS in a number of significant ways, including hosting events and displays and providing exceptional promotional support.
Premier Sponsors
NAIAS Welcomes New Sponsors
NAIAS is pleased to greet several new sponsors to the 2014 show, including three new
Official Sponsors
New NAIAS 2014 sponsors also include: A2MAC1 Automotive Benchmarking, Celanese Engineered Materials, Comau, Inc., Health Insurance Marketplace, IHS, Makino, Inc., Michigan International Speedway, Plex Systems, MetroBee, Samsung SDI, Sprint Velocity, Steel Market Development Institute, Summit Polymers, and TomTom Automotive.
About the North American International Auto Show
Celebrating its 25th anniversary as an international event, the NAIAS is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, people and ideas that matter most - up close and in one place. One of the largest media events in North America, the NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles (OICA), the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world.
NAIAS 2014 Committee
Robert Shuman, Chairman
Scott LaRiche, Vice Chairman
Paul Sabatini, Committee Member
Sam Slaughter, Committee Member
Ryan LaFontaine, Committee Member
Rod Alberts, Executive Director
Follow us on
for highlights and updates!
NAIAS 2014 Show Dates
Press Preview
- Monday-Tuesday, Jan. 13-14, 2014
Industry Preview
- Wednesday-Thursday, Jan. 15-16, 2014
Charity Preview
- Friday, Jan. 17, 2014
Public Show
- Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 18-26, 2014
North American International Auto Show, LLC. © 2013. All Rights Reserved.


text:
the celebrity eyes?
The state raised the requirements after a plan to cut $50 million from its $313 million spending on the Bright Futures program.
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text:
Enjoy the peace and tranquility in our rooms, all of which include:
CHECK-IN is between the hours of 4:00 and 7:00 PM MST (one hour later than Las Vegas).
CHECK-IN at alternate times by arrangement.
CHECK-OUT is 11:00 AM.
Advanced reservations are recommended. A deposit, by prepaid check or credit card, of one night's payment per room will guarantee your reservation.
If you must cancel or change your reservation, seven days notice must be given to receive a full refund of your deposit. More notice is required for holidays, multiple cottage reservations and extended stays.
Sorry, NO SMOKING in rooms, individual patios, or common courtyard/lawn areas. Smoking may be permitted on our hilltop patio with the approval of other guests wishing to use that patio.
NO PETS please. If you would like to board your dog or cat, contact the Doggy Dude Ranch.


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Stella McCartney knows exactly what women want to wear and what looks modern now. One part sporty, one part cozy-cool, this chunky-knit wool-blend bomber jacket is the perfect example. Wear yours with skinny jeans.
Navy chunky-knit wool-blend, red flecksRibbed trims, slit pocketsZip fastening through front88% virgin wool, 8% rayon, 4% LycraDry clean
Product code: 375328 - Need help? Contact us


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Remember guys (and gals?) - download ALL four parts, and then unzip!
You do not need STALKER to run LA, Stand alone Release. Download all 4 parts, and use winrar or winzip to unpack them, then run setup.exe and follow the instructions. Enjoy & PLEASE THANK THE HARD WORKING DEVELOPERS!
Anyone who uses 32bit operating system should remove the msvcp120.dll, msvcp120d.dll and msvcr120.dll from the game's bins directory. That will solve many problems. Also before game start, you can delete the user.ltx too and let the game create a new one based on your system specs.
If you guys dont have admin priviliges on your pc or dont have UAC disabled, then do not install the game to the default program files directory (its protected by windows)!
Install it to an other drive, or an other dir, otherwise you wont be able to save, load, or make screenshots. We will try to find out something for this in the upcoming patch.
Also you should disable actor legs in options menu, as soon as you can, because it causes 3 troubles: 1 missing step sounds, 2 crash with missing bone, 3 crash when fighting rats.Thanks for your understanding and support!
Remember guys (and gals?) - download ALL four parts, and then unzip!
Mirrors unavailable......
Same here, every time I click on the first link I get mirrors unavailable error :( No point on supplying the links if the servers can't handle the traffic.
Server seems dead, the downloads count doesn't move anymore (after refreshing of course)
Well, it actually moves .. .very slowly ;-)
Quote:Mirrors unavailable......
Download all 4 parts here!
THANK YOU!! Its so much faster to download from Mega.
well.. I downloaded first part and the archive is damaged or something..
You must download all the parts to unzip it, it won't work without all the parts.
yeaaah it was my mistake, I downloaded it zipped but now works!
Good :)
thank you is what I was expecting
Thank YOU mate!
MIRRORS WORKE NOW! Cheers vodka for everyone!
JESUS.... I was download ****** 1st part twice and I have CRC error(7zip and winrar)... I have all four parts..... HELP!!!!!!!
Please read instructions in description. Enjoy and thank the devs!
i cant find the description.
thanks to all the hard work, finally that stalker i bought 7 years ago but never became.
Figures one may consider the mod properly released now.
The file you have selected (...LOST_ALPHA_v1.3000_setup.part1.rar) is not available via any mirrors.)
Any ideas?
I assume there are too many people downloading at the same time.
I get the same message.
Just keep checking and it'll probably work in a while.
Guys, what the hell is going on here? Why I can't download any of the parts 1-3? Is that a problem with moddb servers?
Servers overload.
thanks! all parts downloading now.. :)
thx homie
Servers not available in all files! WTF!!!
The mod has been properly released. Thank you dez0wave group for your incredible work! Can't wait to install!
Thank you very much for this Dez & Team. You guys have made dreams come true, really!
I haven't finished downloading yet, but thank you already!
how about a torrent huh? 2 gigabytes with a browser? one can dream.
This work for me. Thank you so much. :D
Dude nice, thanks for the links!
This works! Thnks a bunch man!
Thanks for the help stalker.
Thank you so much.
Thanks for links, these are working atm :)
Thx to tha links maaan!!! I cant wait anymore and tonight gotta go to work...raaaaaaahhh LOST ALPHAAAA
Here is the part 1!
I'm uploading now part 4 ;)
Do you have part 2 uploaded?
No.Downloading it right now!
Thanks for link to part 1 appreciated
Thanks a lot!
Jesus thx! 2.1 MB/s all time :D waiting for more links from MEGA :) :)
Sure!I will upload all parts on mega.In 40 mins I think all will be up.You can check from time time the the other download sections to see if I posted the link!
Sweet thanks!!!
You saved the day
Part 2!
Thx man :D
If you can't download from moddb!
Here are all the parts!
And the bonus content(OST and Manual)
Thank you so much dude..cant hold the 6 hours download from moddb ;D But i will virus check them before anything...just to be sure :D
You are a god send thank you very much would rather wait 5mins than 3hrs+ to dl one part.:}
Thank you so much!
when downloading with Mega site shoul i dl or dl as ZIP? what the difference? Do i need to be a member to download it?


text:
Shirin Ebadi, one of the courageous women leaders speak out for the change through her writing in Iran. When Shirin Ebadi was awarded the prestigious "Nobel Peace Prize," she published a modest, passionate and vivid novel, Iran Awakening. The book is the recollection of numerous cases and events that has affected the lives of Ebadi. Although Ebadi mentions that her novel is not a "political memoir," it depicts the turbulent political situation in Iran's history through her personal experience. She has identified the women's oppression from the law by sharing her faith, ethical responsibility, public career and her experiences as a daughter, wife and mother. In Iranian culture, the veil was required only for women so she refused wearing the veil from her childhood. Her strong and determined behavior helped her to stand strongly and provide courage to fight against the patriarchal society. Due to the political upheaval, she was demoted in her job. When she observed that it was the law that categorizes women as second class citizens, she stood with courage to question the law makers. She asked "Just tell me why a woman can't be a Judge?"
Additionally, Ebadi disclosed the suffering of civilians by sharing her cases as a judge when people came to her for legal prosecution. For instance, she reveals the bitter truth of Fraud, a seventeen year old boy who was sentenced to a prison for 25 years for the crime of selling a newspaper. She also divulged the story of photojournalist, Zahra Kazemi, who holds the dual citizenship of Iran and Canada. Zahra was accused for taking the photographs of detainees and was tortured inhumanely: Zahra's breast, arms and inside things were scratched up and mottled blue-gray bruises. In her life, Ebadi was also accused for the scandal of distributing video against the Muslim religion and was sent to the prison where prostitute were kept.
The situation of women in Iran was so miserable. Men can divorce anytime by saying thrice "I divorce you" but women had to request their husband, a written permission for getting divorce. Therefore, Ebadi cased the file against the divorce law. Her activities seemed to be the threat for the government because the government thought that she was against the Muslim religion. As a woman and a judge, some of the female MPs requested Ebadi to write in the section of a bill that pertained to divorce; however, the bill was not passed when the male MPs knew about the bill's author. Even though, she was demoted in her post by the law, her courageous voice and activities made her a successful woman judge in Iran.
After reading the book, I realized that there are many things which are unanswered. The writer made us suspect of what happened to her after she received the "Novel Peace Prize" in September 2003 and return to Tehran. While she was in Paris for the prize, she herself has raised the question that "what would the Iranian government think? ..... Would I be safer? ...... Who has planned to have me killed? " However, she did not mention anything about her uncertainties and leave the reader with curiosity.
Dear Sunita,
I would also love to read the book some day :)
Hello Nusrat!
Please read this book! This is so inspiring if you are really interested for human rights! Love you
With Love and RegardsSunita Basnet


text:
|Número de publicación
|Tipo de publicación
|Número de solicitud
|Fecha de publicación
|25 Jul 2002
|Fecha de presentación
|21 Nov 2001
|Fecha de prioridad
|29 Sep 1993
|Número de publicación
|Jimmy Roehrig, Shih-Ping Wang, Susan Wood, Harlan Romsdahl, Julian Marshall, Sandra Stapleton
|Cesionario original
|Roehrig Jimmy R., Shih-Ping Wang, Wood Susan A., Romsdahl Harlan M., Julian Marshall, Sandra Stapleton
|Exportar cita
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Citada por (46), Clasificaciones (43), Eventos legales (4)
|Enlaces externos: USPTO, Cesión de USPTO, Espacenet
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 09/946,209 filed Sep. 9, 2001 which in turn is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 09/891,676, filed Jun. 26, 2001 and of Ser. No. 09/798,756, filed Mar. 2, 2001. Ser. No. 09/891,676 in turn is a continuation of Ser. No. 09/179,205, filed Oct. 27, 1998 and now U.S. Pat. No. 6,266,435, which in turn is a continuation-in-part of Ser. Nos. 08/980,254, filed Nov. 28, 1997 (abandoned) and Ser. No. 08/579,802, filed Dec. 28, 1995 and now U.S. Pat. No. 5,828,774, which in turn is a continuation of Ser. No. 08/129,255, filed Sep. 29, 1993 (abandoned). Ser. No. 08/980,254 is in turn a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/579,802, filed on Dec. 28, 1995 (now U.S. Pat. No. 5,828,774) and of application Ser. No. 08/438,432, filed on May 10, 1995 (now U.S. Pat. No. 5,729,620), which in turn is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/129,255, filed on Sep. 29, 1993 (abandoned). This application also claims priority from provisional application Ser. No. 60/252,775 filed on Nov. 22, 2000. This application hereby incorporates by reference the entire disclosure, drawings, and claims of each of the above-identified applications as though fully set forth herein.
[0002] The method and system described in this patent specification relate to displaying radiological images and other information in a manner to assist their reading and interpretation by physicians or other users of the method and system. More specifically, the patent specification relates to a computer-aided method and system for the detection and identification of anatomic abnormalities from radiological images.
[0003] Systems for computer-aided detection and diagnosis assist radiologists in the detection and classification of abnormal lesions in medical images. In the art, computer-aided detection and computer-aided diagnosis methods and systems are called CAD systems. In the present disclosure, the term CAD refers to both types of systems jointly and separately. The purpose of such CAD devices, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,815,591 to Roehrig, et. al., entitled "Method and Apparatus for Fast Detection of Spiculated Lesions in Digital Mammograms," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference, is to direct the attention of a radiologist to suspicious areas of the medical image that may reflect a threatening condition. While not a replacement for the experienced radiologist, CAD systems are designed to increase efficiency and reduce error, as a typical radiologist may be required to examine hundreds of medical images per day, which can lead to the possibility of a missed diagnosis due to human error.
[0004] The detection of suspected abnormal anatomic regions in radiological images using a computer system comprising specialized software and sometimes specialized hardware has been reported. For example, in the area of mammography, two books published in the last few years are: (1) "Digital Mammography," edited by A. G. Gale et al, published by Elsevier in 1994; and (2) "Digital Mammography '96," edited by K. Doi et al, published by Elsevier in 1996.
[0005] Various systems and methods are currently known for computerized detection of abnormalities in radiographic images, such as those disclosed by Giger et al. in RadioGraphics, May 1993, pp. 647-656; Giger et al. in Proceedings of SPIE, Vol. 1445 (1991), pp. 101-103; U.S. Pat. No. 4,907,156 to Doi et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,133,020 to Giger et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,343,390 to Doi et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,491,627 to Zhang et al; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,537,485. These references are incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein. Such CAD systems are believed to be particularly useful to radiologists and other medical specialists in diagnostic processes and specifically in radiologic screening procedures.
[0006] This subject matter has also been discussed in recently issued patents, for example: U.S. Pat. No. 4,907,156 (Doi et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,133,020 (Giger et al), U.S. Pat. No. 5,212,637 (Saxena); U.S. Pat. No. 5,331,550 (Stafford et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,365,429 (Carman); U.S. Pat. No. 5,452,367 (Bick et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,491,627 (Zhang et al), U.S. Pat. No. 5,537,485 (Nishikawa et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,572,565 (Abdel-Moottaleb); (U.S. Pat. No. 5,574,799 (Bankman et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,579,360 (Abdel-Moottaleb); U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,160 (Mascio); U.S. Pat. No. 5,598,481 (Nishikawa et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,615,243 (Gur et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,627,907 (Gur et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,633,948 (Kegelmeyer); U.S. Pat. No. 5,661,820 (Kegelmeyer); U.S. Pat. No. 5,657,362 (Giger et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,666,434 (Nishikawa et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,673,332 (Nishikawa et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,729,620 (Wang); U.S. Pat. No. 5,732,697 (Zhang et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,740,268 (Nishikawa et al); U.S. Pat. No. 5,815,591 (Roehrig et al); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,075,879 (Roehrig et al). Additionally, a commercial mammographic CAD system is being sold in this country under the trade name "ImageChecker" by R2 Technology, Inc. See also, the parent applications identified above, including the references cited therein as prior art or otherwise. The two books cited earlier, as well and the earlier-cited patent applications and patents, including the references cited therein, are hereby incorporated by reference in this patent specification as though fully set forth herein.
[0007] In a screening radiological procedure, a radiologist typically uses a light box to analyze X-ray films such as mammograms or chest images, in a very well-defined orientation and order. In such procedures, the patients are typically asymptomatic and cancers are said to be found at a typical rate of about one to ten cases per one thousand patient examinations. Reading the mammograms, when the vast majority of them are negative, can be a tedious task. It has been reported that it is difficult for physicians to maintain a constantly high attention level.
[0008] Some abnormalities that can be detected or diagnosed from the mammograms can be missed or misdiagnosed, which can result in delayed or more costly treatment, and can even result in a reduction of a patient's longevity or chance of survival. According to an article in the May 26, 1993 issue of JAMA, pages 2616-2617, the misdiagnosis rate in mammograms can be in the range of 15 to 63%. Several mammography clinical studies, as summarized in an article entitled "Estimating the accuracy of screening mammography: a meta-analysis," published in Am. J. Prev. Med. (1998), volume 14, pages 143-152, indicate that the false negative (missed cancer) rate ranges from 5% to 17% for a first screening and increases to 14% to 44% for subsequent screenings. The CAD system, serving as an electronic reminder or second reader, can assist physicians in attaining higher detection rate (higher sensitivity) for cancers while reducing the misdiagnosis rate (lowering the false-negative rate). Thus, it is believed that the use of such CAD systems will continue to increase.
[0009] The following describes a typical procedure for detecting suspected abnormal anatomic features in mammograms using the commercial mammographic CAD system sold under the trade name ImageChecker. A set of four x-ray film mammograms, two views of each breast of a patient, taken by a radiological technician or a physician, are processed through a film digitizer to generate a set of four digitized images that are input as such into the ImageChecker system. Each of the four digitized images is then analyzed by a digital image processing computer with specialized software and typically some specialized hardware as well. The processing detects anatomic features that meet criteria for suspected abnormalities, and creates a respective annotated image for each of the film mammograms. The original film mammograms are then mounted on a conventional lightbox or alternatively, a motorized lightbox, for viewing. The annotated images of these mammograms are displayed on two small TV monitors located beneath the lightbox. Each small monitor displays two annotated images. Each annotated image comprises a sub-sampled digitized image of the corresponding film mammogram and locational markers marking the locations of the suspected abnormalities that the CAD processing detected. Currently, two different markers convey information regarding two key cancerous features of the suspected abnormalities that are detected. One marker is a triangle-shaped marker used to mark the location of a suspected abnormal cluster of microcalcifications. The other marker is a star-shaped marker used to mark the location of a suspected abnormal mass.
[0010] During a mammographic screening procedure, the CAD system typically over marks suspected abnormalities in order to ensure a high detection rate. Currently, the CAD systems in commercial use tend to report suspected abnormalities that have relative probability values of being abnormal that are above a certain selected threshold. The threshold is set low enough that the reporting rate is much higher, perhaps a hundred times higher, than the rate at which a physician would judge the abnormality sufficiently suspicious to warrant a recall of the patient for additional diagnostic work-up examinations. Therefore, a physician may have to examine and perhaps dismiss not only the suspected abnormalities that a physician would ordinarily detect from the film mammograms but also the typically greater number of suspected abnormalities detected by the CAD system.
[0011] During a mammographic examination, the radiological technician sometimes takes extra mammograms of a patient if the technician suspects or believes that an abnormality exists, or if a technical error is likely to have degraded a mammogram (such as patient motion, exposure error, positioning error, etc.). The added information from these extra mammograms is believed to have the potential of enabling the physician to reduce recall rates by assisting in assessing/dismissing abnormalities.
[0012] Therefore, an object of this invention is to provide a high resolution digital image of a radiographic image such as a mammogram. In an embodiment of the invention, regions of interest such as calicifications, masses or other lesions (collectively called lesions) in a radiographic image are individually highlighted. Where a region of interest is detected, the pixels of the lesion are highlighted by superimposing a pixel of a different color, including white, in place of the pixels depicting the region.
[0013] In one embodiment of the invention, the digital image is constructed from an X-ray or a radiographic image; in other embodiments one or more digital images are obtained directly via digital system acquisition equipment. In another embodiment of the invention, a display device provides an option for toggling the highlighted color on or off. By toggling the colored pixels the radiologist is able to observe a region of interest with or without the colored pixels.
[0014] In another embodiment of the invention, a touch screen display is provided wherein a radiologist can view a medical image with highlighted regions of interest. Moreover, a radiologist can select to zoom in on regions of interest by touching the screen. The system then displays the medical image at full resolution, typically 50 microns. In another embodiment of the invention, a CRT display is provided wherein a radiologist can select to zoom in on regions of interest using an input device such as a mouse or keyboard.
[0015] For a better understanding of the invention, reference is be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0016]FIG. 1 is a diagram of an embodiment of a computer aided detection system of the present invention;
[0017]FIG. 2 is a diagram of an embodiment of a computer aided detection system of the present invention;
[0018]FIG. 3 is diagram of a processing unit of the present invention;
[0019]FIG. 4 is a diagram of an embodiment of a computer aided detection system of the present invention;
[0020]FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method of the present invention;
[0021]FIG. 6 is a block diagram of functional units of an embodiment of the present invention;
[0022]FIG. 7 is a diagram of digitized mammographic films as displayed in the present invention;
[0023]FIG. 8a is a digitized mammographic image as displayed in the present invention;
[0024]FIG. 8b is a magnified view of a digitized mammographic image as displayed in the present invention;
[0025]FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for displaying digitized mammographic images according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0026]FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a first exemplary embodiment of the invention;
[0027]FIG. 11A illustrates an annotation map having colored locational markers, wherein the probability values are displayed in analog form in a spectrum of colors, according to a second embodiment;
[0028]FIG. 11B illustrates an annotation map having differently sized locational markers, wherein the probability values are displayed in analog form according to the size of the locational markers, according to an alternate second embodiment; and
[0029]FIG. 12 is a curve illustrating the selection and placement of two different probability thresholds for two markers.
[0030] A system for the detection of breast carcinoma is illustrated in FIG. 1. As shown, detection system 100 comprises a processing unit 102, a motorized viewer 104, and a wet read viewer 106. According to this embodiment, mammography x-ray films are loaded, scanned and analyzed by a processing unit 102. After the x-ray films are analyzed by processing unit 102, data representing regions of interest identified by the processing unit are transmitted for display to one or more viewers. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the data is be sent to motorized viewer 104, wet read viewer 106, or both.
[0031] Note that although these preferred embodiments are described with respect to detection systems that process and analyze mammography x-ray films, the present invention is readily adaptable to many other types of CAD systems. One of skill in the art understands that each unit can be modified to perform identical functions. For example, the present invention is applicable to CAD systems which analyze other kinds of images besides x-ray films. The invention is applicable to CAD systems which process any type of film-based or digital medical images. For example, ultrasound imaging, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, computer tomography imaging, and scintillation camera imaging all produce images which may be film-based. Additionally, film-based medical images are carried on a wide variety of film-like materials such as vellum, or any other transparent or translucent media.
[0032] While detection system 100 is shown illustrated for film-based images, alternate embodiments based on non-film systems are also possible and are noted further herein. For example, digital images may be obtained and processed from a digital imaging system.
[0033] Digital images can then be stored or processed, in a manner as similarly described further herein for digitized image 1040 in FIG. 10, since the images are already in a digital format or other format appropriate for digital image processing without the intermediate need or use of x-ray or other analog images.
[0034] Referring now to FIG. 2, the components in a processing system 200 to process film-based images, such as those processed by processor 102 or 208, or to process digital or digitized images and wet read viewer 106 for film-based images, will now be described in greater detail according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. As shown, processing system 200 houses a user interface 202, scanning unit 204 (primarily for film-based images), and processing unit 206. Note that although the scanning unit, for film-based images, and processing unit are housed within processing unit 206, they can also be provided separately or in other combinations. In general, processing unit 206 comprises a computer-based system for analyzing and processing digital images for the detection of anatomical abnormalities. However, processing unit 208 is generally the processor of almost any CAD system. For example, the present invention is applicable to and could be adapted to facilitate the input of film-based and digital images into any of the CAD systems mentioned and incorporated by reference above.
[0035] As shown in FIG. 3, user interface 202 contains a display panel 308 which is a touch sensitive flat panel display and may include a viewer 306, which may be a wet read viewer but can be another touch sensitive flat panel display where both display panel 308 and viewer 306 are placed in close proximity so that a user is able to access both with ease. An alternative embodiment of the invention implements a touch sensitive flat panel display to function as both the display panel 308 and the wet read viewer 306.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, user interface system 300 comprises a film feeding mechanism 310 for film-based systems which handles and feeds the films in serial fashion to scanning unit 304. Film feeding mechanism 310 comprises a stack film feeder 312 that is capable of holding a large number of films. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, film feeding mechanism 310 is designed so as to accommodate cases of films where each case of films is made up of a number of films obtained from a single patient. For example, in the United States, it is common for a case to be composed of four mammography x-ray films. Each breast is usually imaged twice: the first image being a top view ordinarily called the Cranial Caudal view ("CC"), and the second image being a lateral view ordinarily called the Medio-Lateral Oblique view ("MLO"). The invention can accommodate cases composed of a number of films up to the maximum capacity of the stack film feeder 312.
[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, film feeding mechanism 310 comprises a stack film feeder 312 capable of feeding relatively large numbers of films. Stack film feeder 312 individually feeds films to scanning unit 304 as required during processing on either a first-in-first-out ("FIFO") basis or last-in-first-out ("LIFO") basis. Suitable stack film feeders 612 are currently or will soon be commercially available from vendors such as Konica, Canon and Abe Sekkei. Sometimes such feeders are called bulk loaders or stack loaders. Note that in embodiments where each film has its own bar code label, a bar code reader is provided in stack film feeder 312. Preferably, graphical or electromechanical user interface implemented motorized viewer 204 or wet read viewer 206 controls the organization of images processed en masse.
[0038] Additionally, film feeding mechanism 310 is designed so as to accommodate the size of films ordinarily used in a particular application. For example, in a preferred embodiment, stack film feeder 312 is designed to hold either 18 cm×24 cm, or 24 cm×30 cm films. This is accomplished by providing a film feeding mechanism with a throat that is 24 cm wide to accommodate both film sizes, in which case the 18 cm×24 cm films are rotated in software using standard digital image rotation techniques. Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes a cover sheet with a tab 1010 (see FIG. 10) that protrudes beyond the other films. Thus it is necessary that the film feeding mechanism be designed so as to accommodate the protruding tab.
[0039] Transport mechanism 324 transports the films individually from film feeder 312 to scanning unit 304. After the scanning unit 304 has completed scanning a film, the film is ejected to an output film holder 326, and transport mechanism 324 feeds the next film to scanning unit 304. According to a preferred embodiment, film feeding mechanism 310 and transport mechanism 324 comprises a commonly available film feeding unit such as those commercially available from Konica, Canon and Abe Sekkei.
[0040] Scanning unit 304 generates from each x-ray film a two-dimensional mammographic image. Preferably, scanning unit 304 is a laser film digitizer and has a dynamic range and spatial resolution comparable to those of the original mammographic film which typically has a dynamic range of 10,000:1 and spatial resolution of approximately 50 microns per pixel.
[0041] Although film feeding mechanism 310 and scanning unit 304 are described herein according to certain preferred embodiments, in general many alternative types of feeding mechanisms and scanners can be used, depending on the particular application. For example, suitable scanners are commercially available from a number of vendors including Konica, Canon and Abe Sekkei.
[0042] Additionally, in some embodiments certain medical images are already in digital format, such as images that were acquired with a digital medical imaging system, or that are stored in a digital image storage system. According to the invention, an example of a computer-aided detection system which receives images already in digital format is shown in FIG. 4. Although processing unit 304 is shown connected to both digital image storage system 404 and digital medical imaging system 404, in general only one source of digital image data is needed. A wide variety of digital medical imaging systems currently exist. Some examples are: computer tomography systems, digital ultrasound imaging systems, scintillation camera systems, digital stimulated emission phosphor plate radiography systems, nuclear magnetic imaging systems, and digital mammographic systems. An example of a digital image storage system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,416,602 to Inga et al., entitled "Medical Image System With Progressive Resolution" incorporated herein by reference. In the case where medical images are already in digital format, the feeding and scanning functions of the system are not needed. In such cases, the operator monitors the digital data being received by the system using the display panel, and is able to re-orient or change the order of images electronically, as will be described in greater detail below.
[0043]FIG. 5 shows the general steps performed by CAD processing unit 1020 (FIG. 10) on the x-ray mammogram. Reference will be made to processing unit 102, however, one of skill in the art understands that the discussion is applicable to processing unit 300 as well as to other digital processing units. At step 502, multiple related x-ray mammograms are scanned in and digitized into digital mammograms. To create the x-rays mammograms, the breast is positioned and compressed between two plates before the X-ray is actually taken. Two views, corresponding to two approximately orthogonal orientations of the compression planes are taken, typically called Cranial Caudal (CC) view and Medio-Lateral Oblique (MLO) view. The resulting four films are developed, and digitized by the CAD system 100. The digitized image is then sent to a computer for processing at step 804. Alternatively, the x-ray mammograms are digitized directly using a digital x-ray machine. Preferably, such machines have resolution better than or as good as digital images obtained via scanning. In any event, the resulting digitized images can then be displayed or stored for further processing.
[0044] The digital mammograms are processed at step 504 by an overall suspicious lesion detection algorithm in accordance with the preferred embodiments. The overall lesion detection algorithm performed at step 804 generates a list of locations in at least one of the digital mammogram images which correspond to suspicious lesions, i.e. possibly cancerous lesions. The algorithm operates independently on each image, without regard for what lesions are found or not found in the other images. Following step 504, the digital mammogram images and list of suspicious locations is sent for display to the viewing station 104 at step 506.
[0045] At step 506, the system of the present invention displays a digitized image of the breast mammogram with indicators overlaid on the image indicating regions of interest. At step 506, the doctor also has available the original conventionally developed mammographic films to which he can refer. After thoroughly examining the films and the digitized images, the doctor makes a recommendation.
[0046] As an alternative to the manual x-ray development following by the digitization performed at step 502, the x-ray detector, which at present is usually a film screen cassette, can be replaced by a direct digital detector such as the General Electric Full Field Digital Mammography System, and the resulting digital image fed directly to the CAD processing unit 402.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 6, the components of a processor 102 are shown. The processor includes an input/output unit interface 612. For film-based images, a digitizer 603 creates digitized images for processing by a processing unit 610. For digital mammography systems where digital images are received via interface 612, processing by the digitizer may not be necessary, and in some embodiments a digitizer 603 would not be required or used. A central control unit 605 manages the flow, exchange and control of data within processor 102. Memory 608 can be used to store digitized images from digitizer 603 and results obtained by the processing unit 610.
[0048] In one preferred embodiment, the highlighted digital mammogram will have a marker such as an asterisk (*) superimposed on those locations corresponding to suspicious lesions, and a triangle (Δ) superimposed on calcification clusters. Further information regarding CAD system 400 may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,815,591, supra.
[0049] In an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 7a, a marker 702, in this case a triangle, is shown at the centroid of several calcifications on a digitized radiographic image that is in this case a mammographic image 704. The marker 702 is useful because it provides a prompt or stimulus to the radiologist to closely examine the original image at the position of the marker. Upon further examination, a radiologist can revise his opinion based on his closer observation of the original image. As an enhancement, further information is provided by showing the radiologist exactly which pixels the code considered suspicious. As shown in FIG. 7b, pixels groups 710-720 correspond to a close up view of the region surrounding marker 702. Pixel groups 710-720 may be highlighted with a particular color such as white or red. In an embodiment of the invention, a display device, such as wet read view 306 or user interface 300 (see FIGS. 2-5, infra), is used to display mammographic images 704 and 706 where the display device is a touch screen. In such an embodiment, the radiologist can select to view an area surrounding a marker 702 by simply touching the marker on the screen. The system then provides a close up view of the region with the highlighted pixels. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the display device is a cathode ray tube (CRT) connected to an input device such as a keyboard or mouse whereby the input device is used to command the system to provide a close up view and to highlight the suspicious pixels.
[0050]FIG. 8 shows actual images from a CAD system. As shown in FIG. 8a, a triangular marker 802 is shown on a digitized mammographic image 804 indicating the centroid of a calcification cluster. A cluster is typically defined as two (2) or more calcifications located within a physical distance of each other, typically one (1) square centimeter. A single marker can represent an entire cluster, which may be any size. Using a close up view in FIG. 8b, pixel groups 810-820 are highlighted. The highlighted pixels are identified by a lesion, calcification, mass or spiculation algorithm as corresponding to an region of interest meeting predetermined criteria.
[0051]FIG. 9 shows a method of the present invention for displaying markers and highlighting pixels corresponding to suspicious regions of interest such as calcifications. At step 902, a computer-aided diagnosis system of the present invention receives digitized radiographic images such as mammograms. The digitized images can be produced by scanning a radiographic film or by directly creating a digitized image using digitizing detector arrays. At step 904, the digitized radiographic images are analyzed using a computer aided diagnosis system. This analysis can be tailored to detect various regions of interest as known in the art. In particular, the analysis can detect calcifications, masses, spiculations or other anatomically suspicious regions. At step 906, the computer-aided diagnosis system identifies the exact pixels corresponding to a region of interest in the plurality of digitized radiographic images which are comprised of an array of pixels. At step 908, a digitized radiographic image is displayed on a display device such as a cathode ray tube or a flat panel display. In an embodiment of the invention, a marker is also displayed at the centroid of the region of interest such as at the center of a cluster of calcifications. Responsive to a command such as by touching a touch screen or by using another type of input device such as a keyboard or mouse, a number of the identified pixels are highlighted on the display device at step 910. The highlighting can be accomplished by applying a distinctive color such as white or red to the identified pixels. Moreover, in an embodiment, a close-up view is provided responsive to a command such that the radiographic image is shown at high resolution and the highlighting is also shown at high resolution. In another embodiment of the invention, the highlight on the identified pixels can be toggled on or off responsive to a command so that a radiologist can closely examine an identified region of interest such as a calcification. A radiologist can then use the displayed radiographic images including the close-up view with the highlighting on and off to supplement his evaluation of the digitized radiographic images as well as the actual radiographic films.
[0052] In another embodiment, hard copy or printed images are produced responsive to a command. Responsive to a command such as by touching a touch screen or by using another type of input device such as a keyboard or mouse, a high resolution image is printed using a printer. The printed image includes highlighting by applying a distinctive color such as white or red to the identified pixels. Moreover, in an embodiment, a close-up view is printed responsive to a command such that the printed radiographic image is shown at high resolution and the highlighting is also shown at high resolution. A radiologist can then use the printed radiographic image to supplement his evaluation of the digitized or digital radiographic images as well as the actual radiographic films.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 10, a preferred but non-limiting example of the method and system described herein involves providing annotation information that can include assessments of the probability, likelihood or predictive values of CAD-detected suspected abnormalities, in addition to the locational information, as an aid to the radiologist or other user of the method and system. In this example, the radiologic image is in the form of a mammographic x-ray film, which is acquired with a conventional mammographic film-screen imaging system. The original analog two-dimensional mammographic x-ray film 10 is sent through the digitizer 1030 of CAD system 1020 (such as that disclosed in said U.S. patents and applications incorporated by reference herein) to obtain digitized two-dimensional mammographic image 1040. Preferably, film digitizer 1030 is a high resolution CCD or laser film digitizer and has a dynamic range and a spatial resolution comparable to those of the original mammographic film that typically has a dynamic range of 3,000:1 to over 10,000:1 and spatial resolution of approximately 50 to 100 microns per pixel (or about 4,000×5000 to 2,000×2500 pixels for an 8 inch×10 inch film mammogram). The identity of original mammographic image 1010 also is preferably entered into CAD system 1020 at this point to identify digitized mammographic image 1040. A useful option at this point is to automatically input the identity of original mammographic image 1010 into CAD system 1020. This can be accomplished, for example, by first labeling mammographic film 1010 with a code such as a bar code, and then by reading the label into CAD system 1020 with optional ID bar code reader 1015 as the mammographic film 1010 is, in one embodiment, fed into film digitizer 1030.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 10, the method and system 1000, can also receive radiological images 1014 that are already in a digital format, and detect suspected abnormalities on these radiological images with CAD system 1020. Preferably, these radiological images, together with CAD results, can be printed on photographic film or otherwise stored directly without any intermediate steps requiring, particularly in the case of film, the manual feed of x-ray or analog images into an ID reader 1015 or without requiring use of a film digitizer 1020. Digital imaging systems, such as magnetic resonance imaging ("MRI") systems, computed tomography ("CT") systems, ultrasound imaging systems, scintillation cameras, computed radiography ("CR") systems (such as Fuji's CR system based on stimulated emission phosphor detector), flat panel type (using amorphous silicon array detectors) digital radiography and digital mammography systems provide radiological images in the digital format. In this nonlimiting example, the radiological image is in the form of digital mammogram 1014, which is acquired with a digital mammography system. Preferred digital acquisition systems can create digital images directly without the need of film and without the need of intermediate steps of converting film-based analog images to digital images. Additionally, digital image data is preferably processed with correction for known error sources and disturbances to provide a more accurate digital profile. Digital mammogram 1014, preferably already having a properly encoded identification and patient information 1012, can be reformatted at reformatter 1013 into digitized mammographic image 1040 and sent through abnormal feature detection stage 1050 of CAD machine 1020. If digital image 1014 is already properly formatted for CAD machine 1020, it is sent directly to and through abnormal feature detection stage 1050 of CAD machine 1020 without reformatting, as the initial film digitization step used in analog x-ray film example is not needed in this case.
[0055] Digitized mammographic image 1040 is sent through abnormal feature detection stage 1050 of CAD system 1020. Key components of abnormal feature detection stage 1050, abnormal feature extraction sub-stage 1051 and classifier sub-stage 1052 have been described in detail in said U.S. patents and applications incorporated by reference herein. The output of abnormal feature extraction sub-stage 1051 is usually the features and locational information of the detected suspected abnormalities. The output of classifier sub-stage 1052 is usually the probability information of the detected abnormalities. Although several types of neural network classifiers (particularly feed-forward, multi layer, neural network classifiers) have been used in radiological CAD systems, other usable classifiers have been described, for example, in a book by K. Fukunaga (entitled: "Introduction to statistical pattern recognition," published by Academic Press in 1990) and a book by R. Duda and P. Hart (entitled: "Pattern Classification and scene analysis," published by John Wiley & Sons in 1973).
[0056] The findings or results from abnormal feature detection stage 1050 are in the form of two-dimensional annotation map or x-y coordinate information 1055 of the locations of the CAD-detected suspected abnormalities that have probability values of being abnormal that are above a certain selected threshold. In some configurations, the results also can be provided in 3-D views, created from a set of 2-D images. In other configurations, the results are shown in multiple display windows wherein at least one window display is a 2-D rendering, and at least one display window is a 3-D rendering of the results.
[0057] In the illustrative example depicted in FIG. 10, four CAD-detected suspected abnormalities have been found through the analysis of digitized version 1040 of original film 1010, and are illustrated at regions of interest (ROIs) 1056, 1057, 1058 and 1059 on annotation map 1055. For the purpose of illustration, let the ROIs 1056, 1057, 1058 and 1059 have probability values of being abnormal at 53, 11, 3 and 0.6%, respectively. Illustratively, the threshold at which these probability values are displayed is less than 0.6%. Therefore all four ROIs 1056, 1057, 1058 and 1059 are displayed. If the probability threshold were set at 5%, only ROIs 1056 and 1057 would be displayed. Thus, the markers identify not only the detected location but also display the probabilities of being abnormal that are above a certain preselected threshold. In some embodiments, information (such as probability information associated with the markers) can be placed in a margin or edge away from a breast image. The annotation map 1055 can be scaled down to the size of a sub-sampled digital image of the respective film mammogram, say 512×512 pixel in size and 8-bit in a gray scale image of the digitized image 1040. The scaled-down gray scale image and the annotation map 1055 can be superimposed on each other in registration to form miniaturized superimposed map image 1060 that can be displayed and used as discussed below. The annotation map 1055 can be shown with the breast outline 1054 or the breast outline can be removed from the superimposed image 1060. One or more of CAD-generated annotation map 1055, reduced size gray scale image, superimposed image 1060, and digitized image 1040 and its corresponding identification, can be stored in an optional memory storage unit 1070 in digital form.
[0058] For viewing, annotation map 1055 is transferred to an output display section of the system. Different displays are available depending on whether the digitized image 1040 was obtained from an x-ray or was directly generated. The output display section of the CAD system can be a part of the total CAD system, in which case the data transfer can be conducted, for example, through a dedicated shielded cable. Or, the output display section can be a separate system, in which case an additional data storage memory may be added to the unit to store the transferred interim data and the data transfer may be conducted through a dedicated shielded cable or an existing network to where the viewing equipment is installed.
[0059] It is important to point out and emphasize the abnormal features of the CAD detected abnormalities to the physician because it is believed that the physician, even after seeing the location of the CAD detected abnormalities on annotation map 1055, can fail to notice or appreciate these abnormal features on the original x-ray film mammogram. By pointing these abnormal features out to the physician with further emphasis on their relative probability value, it is believed that the physician would be in better position to assess the meaning and significance of these CAD detected suspected abnormalities.
[0060] A CAD output display is illustrated in FIG. 10 comprising a conventional film illuminator 1061, commonly called a lightbox, and a small TV monitor 1062. Monitor 1062 displays the superimposed image 1060 resulting from superimposing in registration annotation map 1055 and reduced scale digital image 1041. By operating toggle switch 1090 the user can turn on-and-off image 1060 at TV monitor 1062. The dimensions of the display screen of the small TV monitor 1062 in this example are of the order of Ľ to ˝ of the dimensions of original x-ray film mammogram 1010. Because a physician usually views a set of four mammograms from each patient at a time, one or more small TV monitors 1062 can be used to display one or more annotation maps 1055 of the corresponding film mammograms. During a physician's reading session, each small TV monitor 1062 preferably is located or moved to (if mounted on a movable device such as an arm) as close as practical to the original film(s) 1010 displayed at light box 1061. Preferably the center of each small TV monitor 1062 should be less than 12 inches from the center of the respective original film(s) 1010 on conventional film illumination light box 1061 to minimize eye movement.
[0061] There are several methods to display the CAD results and the digitally acquired mammogram. Because a digital system typically produces no film at the data acquisition stage, a first method is a totally filmless display using a high resolution TV monitor 1063.
[0062] The resolution should preferably be at least 1000 X 1000 pixels. In this method annotation map 1055 (or a combined image corresponding to image 1060) and digital mammogram 1040 are all displayed on the same TV monitor 1063 as a combined digital image 1064 as shown in FIG. 10. Annotation map 1055, with the relative probability values displayed adjacent to ROIs 1056, 1057, 1058 and 1059, can be displayed in one of many locations or arrangements of a display as part of a combined image where, for example, annotation map 1055 is on top of and in registration with digital mammogram 1040 or displayed at a margin or edge of digital mammogram 1040 (as illustrated). By operating toggle switch 1090 the user can turn on-and-off or otherwise select a position or orientation for annotation map 1055 in the combined image 1064. Alternatively, the toggle switch can allow for the switching the displayed image, such as toggling between displaying only annotation map 1055 on monitor 1063 or displaying combined digital image 1064.
[0063] A second display mode of the digitally acquired mammogram is to print out digitized mammogram 1040 on photographic film 1066 and view it at a lightbox 1068.
[0064] Annotation map 1055 (or a superimposed image corresponding to image 1060), with the relative probability values displayed adjacent to ROIs 1056, 1057, 1058 and 1059, can be placed on the same edge or margin of the printout film as patient information label 1012. The photographic film printout, typically having a resolution of 4000×5000 pixels, can be made with high resolution laser film printer 1072. Such high resolution, 4000×5000 pixels, laser film printers are commercially available with a resolution of 50 microns per pixel for 8 inch×10 inch size films and 100 microns per pixel for 14 inch×17 inch size films. It is sometimes preferred that only miniaturized annotation map 1060 of annotation map 1055 be printed on the edge of the printout film 1066.
[0065]FIG. 11A, according to a second embodiment, illustrates annotation map 1155, similar to map 1055 but having colored ROIs 1156, 1157, 1158 and 1159. For example, "false" colors are assigned to represent the relative probability values in much the same way as "false" colors are assigned to represent elevation in a topographical map.
[0066]FIG. 11B illustrates annotation map 1155 having differently sized ROIs 1156, 1157, 1158 and 1159, whereas the relative probability value is displayed in analog form, represented by the size of the locational markers.
[0067]FIG. 12 is a free response receiver operating characteristics (FROC) curve of a CAD system where the system's cancer detection percentage is plotted against the locational marker's relative probability threshold setting. The CAD system's detection percentage varies inversely with the logarithm of the probability threshold setting. As the probability threshold is lowered, the detection percentage increases. The false marker rate on non-cancer mammograms is inversely proportional to the probability threshold setting. That is, as the probability threshold is lowered, the false marker rate increases.
[0068] A user of the method and system described herein can select the probability thresholds with the guide of the FROC curve. For example, a first probability threshold setting point 1200 is selected to display many subtle abnormalities with a high cancer detection rate of approximately 85% in this example and a rather high false marker rate of 0.5 per normal mammogram. This false marker rate is equivalent to approximately 500 false marks per cancer detected. A typical physician's recall rate for diagnostic examination can be 5 to 20 per cancer detected. Thus, this false marker rate is substantially higher than the rate of abnormalities that a physician would typically expect.
[0069] Not knowing the probability or significance of each marker and not wishing to overlook significant cancers, a physician may elect to regard all markers as equally significant and thus spend an equal amount of time to dismiss each marker. Thus, the physician may spend too much time on the task of dismissing low probability markers. On the other hand, not wishing to miss subtle cancers, the CAD system designer may not want to offer a system with too high a probability threshold setting. A solution to this problem is provided in the above described exemplary embodiments. Knowing the probability of the markers, the physician could then efficiently allot his or her time in assessing/dismissing the markers. With color, size or numerical probability indicators, some physicians may feel the display is too busy or too complex for efficient readings of the mammograms. A solution in such a case is to select a second threshold, for example at threshold 1202, set in the range of approximately 1 to 5 times a typical physician's recall rate for diagnostic examination, to thereby separate out probability markers that appear only occasionally so that the physician can better allot his or her time in assessing/dismissing the markers. Depending on the physician's recall rate, threshold 1202 should be set at a rate of, e.g., once every 4 to 250 mammograms. In the more developed countries, where the breast cancer rates tend to be higher than in less developed countries, threshold 1202 at a setting of one marker every 10 to 40 mammograms may be a reasonable compromise. A separate marker, differing from the first threshold markers in color, shape or size, can be used for the second threshold. Of course, some physicians may prefer more than two thresholds, in which case the system can accommodate that choice as well.
[0070]FIG. 12 also illustrates the selection and placement of an "extra view markers" threshold 1204. This threshold can be set at or near the physician's typical recall rate for diagnostic examination. That is, depending on the physician's recall rate, an "extra view marker" is displayed to the technician to suggest extra views at a rate of once every 20 to 250 mammograms.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 10, according to yet another embodiment, a control device 1095 is provided to allow the user to select and vary the probability threshold for the display of locational markers. By varying the probability threshold, the user can selectively set the probability threshold to taste or selectively view the markers with very low probability to markers with very high probability.
[0072] Experience has shown that there are situations where the further information provided by highlighted pixels is useful in reducing false positive indications sometimes called "false markers." Computer-aided detection codes use objective data which sometimes leads to these false markers and a possible waste of time for the radiologist. Using the present invention, however, the radiologist's time is much better optimized. By showing the radiologist exactly which pixels the computer algorithm considered suscipious, the radiologist can more easily and effectively evaluate and dismiss false markers.
[0073] Furthermore, the present invention allows the radiologist to more readily evaluate true markers corresponding to malignant clusters.
[0074] Further experience has shown that a radiologist is more likely to take action on a cluster the more conspicuous it is. A cluster is more conspicuous if, for example, many individual calcifications comprise a cluster or the edges of the calcifications are extremely jagged or "angry". Jagged or "angry" edges correspond to spiculations. In evaluating mammographic images, spiculated calcifications are the most likely to be malignant and require the most careful attention. In certain situations, however, a malignant cluster of calcifications is very subtle with small calcification such that a true estimate of malignancy is difficult. By highlighting or coloring pixels that an algorithm detects as suspicious, the cluster is easier to appreciate as malignant.
[0075] It is to be appreciated that in addition to being able to display a single view of one breast, CAD system 1020 may be used in accordance with the preferred embodiments to simultaneously display information related to multiple views of the same breast, similar Gil views of both breasts, and/or views of a single breast taken at different points in time. Thus, the attention of the radiologist may be drawn to specific areas of a first mammogram image by CAD system 1020, which can then be compared to corresponding areas of other views of the same breast, views of the other breast, or previous views of the same breast for making an appropriate determination.
[0076] Those skilled in the art understand that other anatomical features are common in mammographic images. More generally, those of skill in the art understand that other types of radiographic images such as chest x-rays contain common anatomical features or characteristics which can be used to provide orientation and identity information. In an embodiment of the invention, the chest wall as imaged on a mammographic film is identified to provide orientation information.
[0077] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been described, the descriptions are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the present invention. For example, although the embodiments of the invention described above were in the context of a system for computer-aided diagnosis and detection of breast carcinoma in x-ray films, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed methods and structures are readily adaptable to broader application. For example, the invention is applicable to many other types of CAD systems for detecting other types of anatomical abnormalities, including but not limited to chest x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear medicine.
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Chapter summary
Laying Plans/The Calculations explores the five fundamental factors (the Way, seasons, terrain, leadership, and management) and seven elements that define a successful outcome. By thinking, assessing and comparing these points you can calculate a victory, deviation from them will ensure failure. Remember that war is a very grave matter of state.
Waging War/The Challenge explains how to understand the economy of war and how success requires making the winning play, which in turn, requires limiting the cost of competition and conflict.
Attack by Stratagem/The Plan of Attack defines the source of strength as unity, not size, and the five ingredients that you need to succeed in any war. In order of importance: Attack, Strategy, Alliances, Army, lastly Cities.
Tactical Dispositions/Positioning explains the importance of defending existing positions until you can advance them and how you must recognize opportunities, not try to create them.
Energy/Directing explains the use of creativity and timing in building your momentum.
Weak Points & Strong/Illusion and Reality explains how your opportunities come from the openings in the environment caused by the relative weakness of your enemy in a given area.
Maneuvering/Engaging The Force explains the dangers of direct conflict and how to win those confrontations when they are forced upon you.
Variation in Tactics/The Nine Variations focuses on the need for flexibility in your responses. It explains how to respond to shifting circumstances successfully.
The Army on the March/Moving The Force describes the different situations in them.
The Attack by Fire/Fiery Attack explains the use of weapons generally and the use of the environment as a weapon specifically. It examines the five targets for attack, the five types of environmental attack, and the appropriate responses to such attack.
The Use of Spies/The Use of Intelligence focuses on the importance of developing good information sources, specifically the five types of sources and how to manage them.
Published by Allen Suss
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We are big fans of the BluLabel Bungalow blog, which is why we really enjoyed teaming up with designer and blogger Erika Ward for her master bedroom makeover. Her mission: a couple's retreat with the perfect compromise of masculine and feminine style; a design that fits his needs and her needs. Isn't that what marriage is all about? "When you buy what you love, you can always find a place for it in your home." Erika, we couldn't agree more!
"The fabric and construction are high quality, timeless, and versatile. Whenever we decide to switch up our look, these items will stay." Thanks, Erika!
For more pictures, check out the full makeover on Erika's blog, Blulabel Bungalow!


text:
After a great day at the Jersey Shore this past Saturday, I had a sudden yen for some Chinese. There's something about being in the sun all day that makes me crave the salty, spicy, sweet goodness of quality Chinese food.
Certainly in no mood to navigate the cacophonous, claustrophobic orgy of humanity that is Chinatown, this was the perfect opportunity to check out The Grand Sichuan on 7th avenue south just north of Carmine Street.
Aside from Suzie's on Bleecker Street, which has (justifiably) enjoyed a decades-long monopoly on the neighborhood Chinese food scene (take-out and eat-in), the West Village is severely lacking in the sit-down Chinese food department. Furthermore, I can't help but feel as though, over the years, the elegance and antiquity that I so strongly associate with the Chinese food experience, have all but disappeared in the name of convenience, and all out lazyness. Where have all the Pu Pu platters gone? Why have we so quickly dismissed, the once novel, and still quite tasty concept of fried ice cream? And what does a guy have to do to get a warm towel these days?
And then came The Grand Sichuan.
Behind a plane black awning that bears its name, the triangular dining room is excitingly sleek. Here, they 've traded kitsch for class, choosing slate-tiling, a brick accent wall, and three pieces of modern art, instead of Golden Dragon Heads, Gongs, haphazardly situated tapestries, and cliche background music. One of my favorite aspects of TGS is that it doesn't feel like a Chinese restaurant at all, but a gathering place for those in search of great meal. Well look no further.
Firstly, I was immediately blown away by the prices on the menu. $1.95 for a small soup, $5.95 for a small entree? $9.95 for some of the large entress? Was this right? Looking to get a feel for what I was getting into, I right away opted for the Hot and Sour Soup (for $1.95!) Dark, rich, and heavy on the pepper, this classic starter was as good a version as any. I've been known to doctor up a wounded Hot and Sour with buckets of hot mustard, and most of the time I do, but this time, I had no need for it.
Another rather endearing attribute to this charming spot is its distinction on the menu between "American Chinese" and "Classic Sichuan" dishes. The former lists such tried and true favorites as Sesame Chicken, Orange Beef, and Chicken with Broccoli, while the latter group consists of more intriguing, more honest selections such as the Braised Beef in Chili Sauce and Shredded Pork in Garlic Sauce.
To mix things up we ordered from both lists, starting with th the Chicken with Cashew (below), which cominbed plump juicy morsels of lightly battered chicken with diced carrots, crispy water chestnuts, and of course bulbous cashew halves.
As another homage to classic "American Chinese", the Chicken with Garlic Sauce (below) was incredible. The TGS version is light and poignant in terms of zest and flavor, offering a perfect balance of thinly shredded peppers and onions and succulent chards of melt-in-your-mouth chicken, tossed in a thin and zingy brown garlic sauce that was just right. This was the best Chicken and Garlic I've ever had.
The star of the evening, however, was the Double Cooked Pork (below) which I ordered extra spicy (the menu offers "non spicy" as well). This is absolutely delightful concoction of buttery bacon-like slices of fat-marbled pork, seasoned liberally and tossed with a little bit of green onion, garlic, and crunchy, al dente pea shoots. Though I don't know exactly what "twice cooked" entails, the explosive flavor and remarkable tenderness of the pork makes me only wonder how good it would be like if they cooked it again.
Equally as impeccable as the food, was the service, which was attentive, unusually swift, and at times charmingly frenetic. Our busser's unnecessary, endearingly effusive apology for not filling up our water more quickly couldn't have been a more genuine demonstration of
Thanks to The Grand Sichuan, I am no longer estranged from my life-long companion known as Chinese food. After years of distance, I've come to realize that perhaps I was being too hard on her. Maybe I was unfairly and selfishly mistaken in allowing vibrant images of orange-brown goop-filled rectangular tin-foil containers, pollute my previously pristine perception of the priceless antiquity of the Chinese kitchen. How can love be so fleeting?
Yet, as in all matters of the heart, the anguish of a broken relationship will forever succumb to the euphoria of a new one, and thanks to '
Ain't that Grand?
Food: A
Ambiance: A
Service: A
Price: A (Astoundingly affordable)
Thought: Perhaps the best Chinese I've ever had.