Figure 1

Flowchart describing the simulation study. Departing from Zang-fu single patterns dataset, manifestation profiles were simulated according to the combination of traditional examination methods. Cases (true positive) and controls (true negative) profiles were tested with criteria F_% and N_% and with F_% and N_%-cutofffor comparison of diagnostic tests. PD+: successful pattern differentiation; PD-: unsuccessful pattern differentiation.