Daniela De Felice

Self-presentation:

Daniela is a veterinarian affiliated with the Department of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Naples Federico II. Her research focus is on innovative diagnostic techniques in veterinary medicine, particularly in the field of reproductive health.

Project:

Use of Digital Image Processing Software in Ultrasound Assessments of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems

Advanced ultrasound diagnostic techniques, such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound and elastography, allow for dynamic anatomical and functional imaging, shedding light on many reproduction-related questions. By using advanced software, it is possible to perform a series of quantitative assessments that make ultrasound examinations more reliable, reproducible, and less operator-dependent. The combined and integrated use of these systems enables a multi-parametric evaluation of the patient, enhancing diagnostic speed and accuracy. However, these techniques often require lengthy examination times, making them incompatible with certain areas of veterinary medicine, such as the bovine and equine sectors. The aim of this study is to explore cutting-edge technological solutions to overcome these limitations, such as the use of software for the post-processing of ultrasound images, along with computer programs that utilize artificial intelligence for data detection and analysis. These software programs will be applied in the following areas:
• Bovine Andrology: Ultrasound evaluation of the reproductive system of bulls (bovine and buffalo species) through post-processing techniques to analyze echostructure, vascularization, and echogenicity, with the goal of providing more effective tools for assessing fertility potential.
• Obstetrics: Evaluation of placental structures during various stages of pregnancy in buffalo and canine species, with the aim of providing more information on gestational age.
• Gynecology: Ultrasound assessment of follicular and luteal function in a group of dogs at different stages of the estrous cycle, followed by digital analysis of the vascularization and echogenicity of these ovarian structures, with the goal of obtaining more information on ovulation timing in this species.

Supervisior:

Prof Marco Russo, Dr.med.vet. Department of Animal Reproduction at University Federico II of Naples, Italy.