GPU-Based Techniques for Vector Data Visualization on Global Scale Terrain

In this paper we present a key data structure and associated render-time algorithm for the combined display of multi-resolution 3D terrain and traditional GIS vector data, by combining a fast GPU-based terrain solver, which is designed to create fully 3D scenes that deliver the best possible quality and do not require dynamic texture generation and handling. Level of detail terrain models and vector maps are created, and the server-client architecture is presented. The application provides an effective way for powerful access and manipulation of large-scale real datasets, which represents a basic mechanism for 3D GIS interface and exploration tools.

Glyptogidiella omanica gen. et sp. nov., an inland groundwater bogidiellid from Oman with enlarged coxal plate V (Crustacea, Amphipoda)

A new genus and species of Amphipoda is reported from inland ground waters of the Sultanate of Oman. Although Glyptogidiella omanica gen. et sp. nov. exhibits several features typical of the Bogidiellidae (i. e. combined display of distinct carpal lobe on first gnathopod, reduced pleopodal rami, and unsegmented exopodite of third uropod), its exceptionally large fifth coxal plate and short rami of third uropod do not fit in the restricted diagnosis of the family as recently presented elsewhere. In fact, the enlarged coxal plate V is a feature not reported in any other amphipod, whereas no other bogidiellid displays an expanded basis on pereopod VII. The habitus of Glyptogidiella is not typical for a dweller of a true interstitial niche, with its short antennae, large coxal plate and short and stubby rami on the third uropod. This suggests that the interstitial medium could not be the primary habitat for the species, and that the underground of wadis might contain interstices of large size and could also be in contact with karstic hollows.

Three-Dimensional Demonstration of Liver and Spleen by a Computer Graphics Technique

Three-dimensional demonstration of the liver and spleen has been developed using a computer graphics technique. Three-dimensional models were constructed from organ-surface information derived from computed tomographic images. Three-dimensional images could be displayed as wire-frame or solid models on a color display tube. After examining the accuracy of this technique using a liver phantom, this technique was applied to the human liver and spleen. The anatomic surface of the liver and spleen appeared realistic when viewed from any direction. In liver cirrhosis, abnormal configuration of the liver and spleen was vividly demonstrated. The liver was displayed as a wire-frame, while a hepatoma was presented as a solid form in the same image. This combined display clarified the intrahepatic location of the hepatoma together with its configuration. It is thus expected that this technique will prove clinically useful in the noninvasive evaluation of patho-morphologic changes in the liver and spleen.