A Spatial Cluster Process Model for the Regeneration of Epidermal Nerve Fiber Patterns
Publicerad
Författare
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
Epidermal nerve fibers (ENFs) play a key role in sensory function and are valuable
indicators to detect different stages of diabetic neuropathy. Previous studies developed
spatial point process models to describe the spatial structure of ENFs and the
distribution of their end points. However, modeling how ENFs regrow after damage
is still an open problem. In this thesis, we develop a branching cluster (BC)
model to describe ENF regeneration by modeling multi-level branching points and
end points based on entry points. The model aims to reconstruct nerve patterns in
damaged areas, following hypotheses proposed by neurologists. According to these
hypotheses, ENF regrowth involves two steps: existing nerve fibers grow into the
damaged region, and new ENFs emerge within it. To evaluate the model, we apply a
global envelope test using Ripley’s K-function to examine the spatial pattern of end
points in the damaged region. The results suggest that the BC model captures the
observed structure well within small distances. Coverage analysis also shows that
the model can regenerate ENF patterns that reflect the healing process. Overall, the
BC model offers a statistical framework that incorporates full branching structures
to describe and simulate ENF regrowth in damaged skin areas.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Epidermal nerve fibers (ENFs), point process, cluster process, branching process, damage.