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Duan X, Ding XF, Li N, Wu FX, Chen X, Zhu N. Sparse2Noise: Low-dose synchrotron X-ray tomography without high-quality reference data. Comput Biol Med 2023; 165:107473. [PMID: 37690288 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synchrotron radiation computed tomography (SR-CT) holds promise for high-resolution in vivo imaging. Notably, the reconstruction of SR-CT images necessitates a large set of data to be captured with sufficient photons from multiple angles, resulting in high radiation dose received by the object. Reducing the number of projections and/or photon flux is a straightforward means to lessen the radiation dose, however, compromises data completeness, thus introducing noises and artifacts. Deep learning (DL)-based supervised methods effectively denoise and remove artifacts, but they heavily depend on high-quality paired data acquired at high doses. Although algorithms exist for training without high-quality references, they struggle to effectively eliminate persistent artifacts present in real-world data. METHODS This work presents a novel low-dose imaging strategy namely Sparse2Noise, which combines the reconstruction data from paired sparse-view CT scan (normal-flux) and full-view CT scan (low-flux) using a convolutional neural network (CNN). Sparse2Noise does not require high-quality reconstructed data as references and allows for fresh training on data with very small size. Sparse2Noise was evaluated by both simulated and experimental data. RESULTS Sparse2Noise effectively reduces noise and ring artifacts while maintaining high image quality, outperforming state-of-the-art image denoising methods at same dose levels. Furthermore, Sparse2Noise produces impressive high image quality for ex vivo rat hindlimb imaging with the acceptable low radiation dose (i.e., 0.5 Gy with the isotropic voxel size of 26 μm). CONCLUSIONS This work represents a significant advance towards in vivo SR-CT imaging. It is noteworthy that Sparse2Noise can also be used for denoising in conventional CT and/or phase-contrast CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoman Duan
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Xiao Fan Ding
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Naitao Li
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Fang-Xiang Wu
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada; Department of Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada.
| | - Ning Zhu
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada; Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, S7N 2V3, SK, Canada; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada.
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Ketabat F, Maris T, Duan X, Yazdanpanah Z, Kelly ME, Badea I, Chen X. Optimization of 3D printing and in vitro characterization of alginate/gelatin lattice and angular scaffolds for potential cardiac tissue engineering. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1161804. [PMID: 37304145 PMCID: PMC10248470 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1161804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Engineering cardiac tissue that mimics the hierarchical structure of cardiac tissue remains challenging, raising the need for developing novel methods capable of creating structures with high complexity. Three-dimensional (3D)-printing techniques are among promising methods for engineering complex tissue constructs with high precision. By means of 3D printing, this study aims to develop cardiac constructs with a novel angular structure mimicking cardiac architecture from alginate (Alg) and gelatin (Gel) composite. The 3D-printing conditions were optimized and the structures were characterized in vitro, with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and cardiomyocytes (H9c2 cells), for potential cardiac tissue engineering. Methods: We synthesized the composites of Alg and Gel with varying concentrations and examined their cytotoxicity with both H9c2 cells and HUVECs, as well as their printability for creating 3D structures of varying fibre orientations (angular design). The 3D-printed structures were characterized in terms of morphology by both scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and synchrotron radiation propagation-based imaging computed tomography (SR-PBI-CT), and elastic modulus, swelling percentage, and mass loss percentage as well. The cell viability studies were conducted via measuring the metabolic activity of the live cells with MTT assay and visualizing the cells with live/dead assay kit. Results: Among the examined composite groups of Alg and Gel, two combinations with ratios of 2 to 1 and 3 to 1 (termed as Alg2Gel1 and Alg3Gel1) showed the highest cell survival; they accordingly were used to fabricate two different structures: a novel angular and a conventional lattice structure. Scaffolds made of Alg3Gel1 showed higher elastic modulus, lower swelling percentage, less mass loss, and higher cell survival compared to that of Alg2Gel1. Although the viability of H9c2 cells and HUVECs on all scaffolds composed of Alg3Gel1 was above 99%, the group of the constructs with the angular design maintained significantly more viable cells compared to other investigated groups. Conclusion: The group of angular 3D-ptinted constructs has illustrated promising properties for cardiac tissue engineering by providing high cell viability for both endothelial and cardiac cells, high mechanical strength as well as appropriate swelling, and degradation properties during 21 days of incubation. Statement of Significance: 3D-printing is an emerging method to create complex constructs with high precision in a large scale. In this study, we have demonstrated that 3D-printing can be used to create compatible constructs from the composite of Alg and Gel with endothelial cells and cardiac cells. Also, we have demonstrated that these constructs are able to enhance the viability of cardiac and endothelial cells via creating a 3D structure mimicking the alignment and orientation of the fibers in the native heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farinaz Ketabat
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Titouan Maris
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Institut Catholique des arts et métiers (ICAM)- Site de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Xiaoman Duan
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Zahra Yazdanpanah
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Michael E. Kelly
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ildiko Badea
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Duan X, Li N, Cooper DML, Ding XF, Chen X, Zhu N. Low-density tissue scaffold imaging by synchrotron radiation propagation-based imaging computed tomography with helical acquisition mode. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2023; 30:417-429. [PMID: 36891855 PMCID: PMC10000810 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577523000772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Visualization of low-density tissue scaffolds made from hydrogels is important yet challenging in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM). For this, synchrotron radiation propagation-based imaging computed tomography (SR-PBI-CT) has great potential, but is limited due to the ring artifacts commonly observed in SR-PBI-CT images. To address this issue, this study focuses on the integration of SR-PBI-CT and helical acquisition mode (i.e. SR-PBI-HCT) to visualize hydrogel scaffolds. The influence of key imaging parameters on the image quality of hydrogel scaffolds was investigated, including the helical pitch (p), photon energy (E) and the number of acquisition projections per rotation/revolution (Np), and, on this basis, those parameters were optimized to improve image quality and to reduce noise level and artifacts. The results illustrate that SR-PBI-HCT imaging shows impressive advantages in avoiding ring artifacts with p = 1.5, E = 30 keV and Np = 500 for the visualization of hydrogel scaffolds in vitro. Furthermore, the results also demonstrate that hydrogel scaffolds can be visualized using SR-PBI-HCT with good contrast while at a low radiation dose, i.e. 342 mGy (voxel size of 26 µm, suitable for in vivo imaging). This paper presents a systematic study on hydrogel scaffold imaging using SR-PBI-HCT and the results reveal that SR-PBI-HCT is a powerful tool for visualizing and characterizing low-density scaffolds with a high image quality in vitro. This work represents a significant advance toward the non-invasive in vivo visualization and characterization of hydrogel scaffolds at a suitable radiation dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoman Duan
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Naitao Li
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - David M. L. Cooper
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Xiao Fan Ding
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Ning Zhu
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2V3, Canada
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Chen C, Huang S, Chen Z, Liu Q, Cai Y, Mei Y, Xu Y, Guo R, Yan C. Kartogenin (KGN)/synthetic melanin nanoparticles (SMNP) loaded theranostic hydrogel scaffold system for multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging guided cartilage regeneration. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10364. [PMID: 36684070 PMCID: PMC9842022 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cartilage regeneration after injury is still a great challenge in clinics, which suffers from its avascularity and poor proliferative ability. Herein we designed a novel biocompatible cellulose nanocrystal/GelMA (gelatin-methacrylate anhydride)/HAMA (hyaluronic acid-methacrylate anhydride)-blended hydrogel scaffold system, loaded with synthetic melanin nanoparticles (SMNP) and a bioactive drug kartogenin (KGN) for theranostic purpose. We found that the SMNP-KGN/Gel showed favorable mechanical property, thermal stability, and distinct magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast enhancement. Meanwhile, the sustained release of KGN could recruit bone-derived mesenchymal stem cells to proliferate and differentiate into chondrocytes, which promoted cartilage regeneration in vitro and in vivo. The hydrogel degradation and cartilage restoration were simultaneously monitored by multiparametric MRI for 12 weeks, and further confirmed by histological analysis. Together, these results validated the multifunctional hydrogel as a promising tissue engineering platform for noninvasive imaging-guided precision therapy in cartilage regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuyao Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Shaoshan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technological Research Centre for Drug Carrier Development, Department of Biomedical EngineeringJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Zelong Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Qin Liu
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Yu Cai
- Clinical Research CenterZhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
- Center of Orthopedics, Zhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Yingjie Mei
- School of Biomedical EngineeringSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Yikai Xu
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Rui Guo
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technological Research Centre for Drug Carrier Development, Department of Biomedical EngineeringJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Chenggong Yan
- Department of Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
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Wang Y, Wei X, Liu JH, Wu CX, Zhang X, Chen ML, Wang JH. Cryogenic Laser Ablation in a Rapid Cooling Chamber Ensures Excellent Elemental Imaging in Fresh Biological Tissues. Anal Chem 2022; 94:8547-8553. [PMID: 35653437 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c01736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry imaging of biologically significant targets largely relies on maintaining the original structures of samples. The temperature regulation capability of the ablation cell is crucial. Herein, a rapid cooling cryogenic sample cell (RCCSC) was developed. In the RCCSC chamber, the temperature reduces to -20 °C in 4 min with a minimum 10 h variation of ±0.1 °C at -26 °C. Improvements on the precision were achieved for the elements of interest in NIST 612 and spiked agarose gel under cryogenic conditions. The limits of detection improved by up to 1.57, 1.70, 3.26, and 1.33 fold for 63Cu, 66Zn, 57Fe, and 140Ce in agarose gel, respectively, were obtained under cryogenic conditions compared with those at room temperature. In a time period of testing (10 h), the cryogenic ablation maintains the native state of biological tissues with a high water content to ensure better elemental imaging by reducing thermal effects in ablation and suppressing evaporation of water. The rapid cooling cryogenic ablation significantly improves elemental imaging, as demonstrated by the imaging of various elements in coriander leaves. The present study may provide further insights into elemental distributions in fresh biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Xing Wei
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Jin-Hui Liu
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Cheng-Xin Wu
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Ming-Li Chen
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Jian-Hua Wang
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China
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Yazdanpanah Z, Johnston JD, Cooper DML, Chen X. 3D Bioprinted Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering: State-Of-The-Art and Emerging Technologies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:824156. [PMID: 35480972 PMCID: PMC9035802 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.824156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Treating large bone defects, known as critical-sized defects (CSDs), is challenging because they are not spontaneously healed by the patient’s body. Due to the limitations associated with conventional bone grafts, bone tissue engineering (BTE), based on three-dimensional (3D) bioprinted scaffolds, has emerged as a promising approach for bone reconstitution and treatment. Bioprinting technology allows for incorporation of living cells and/or growth factors into scaffolds aiming to mimic the structure and properties of the native bone. To date, a wide range of biomaterials (either natural or synthetic polymers), as well as various cells and growth factors, have been explored for use in scaffold bioprinting. However, a key challenge that remains is the fabrication of scaffolds that meet structure, mechanical, and osteoconductive requirements of native bone and support vascularization. In this review, we briefly present the latest developments and discoveries of CSD treatment by means of bioprinted scaffolds, with a focus on the biomaterials, cells, and growth factors for formulating bioinks and their bioprinting techniques. Promising state-of-the-art pathways or strategies recently developed for bioprinting bone scaffolds are highlighted, including the incorporation of bioactive ceramics to create composite scaffolds, the use of advanced bioprinting technologies (e.g., core/shell bioprinting) to form hybrid scaffolds or systems, as well as the rigorous design of scaffolds by taking into account of the influence of such parameters as scaffold pore geometry and porosity. We also review in-vitro assays and in-vivo models to track bone regeneration, followed by a discussion of current limitations associated with 3D bioprinting technologies for BTE. We conclude this review with emerging approaches in this field, including the development of gradient scaffolds, four-dimensional (4D) printing technology via smart materials, organoids, and cell aggregates/spheroids along with future avenues for related BTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Yazdanpanah
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- *Correspondence: Zahra Yazdanpanah,
| | - James D. Johnston
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - David M. L. Cooper
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Savvidis S, Gerli MF, Pellegrini M, Massimi L, Hagen CK, Endrizzi M, Atzeni A, Ogunbiyi OK, Turmaine M, Smith ES, Fagiani C, Selmin G, Urbani L, Durkin N, Shibuya S, De Coppi P, Olivo A. Monitoring tissue engineered constructs and protocols with laboratory-based x-ray phase contrast tomography. Acta Biomater 2022; 141:290-299. [PMID: 35051630 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Tissue engineering (TE) aims to generate bioengineered constructs which can offer a surgical treatment for many conditions involving tissue or organ loss. Construct generation must be guided by suitable assessment tools. However, most current tools (e.g. histology) are destructive, which restricts evaluation to a single-2D anatomical plane, and has no potential for assessing constructs prior to or following their implantation. An alternative can be provided by laboratory-based x-ray phase contrast computed tomography (PC-CT), which enables the extraction of 3D density maps of an organ's anatomy. In this work, we developed a semi-automated image processing pipeline dedicated to the analysis of PC-CT slices of oesophageal constructs. Visual and quantitative (density and morphological) information is extracted on a volumetric basis, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of the regenerated constructs. We believe the presented tools can enable the successful regeneration of patient-specific oesophagus, and bring comparable benefit to a wide range of TE applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Phase contrast computed tomography (PC-CT) is an imaging modality which generates high resolution volumetric density maps of biological tissue. In this work, we demonstrate the use of PC-CT as a new tool for guiding the progression of an oesophageal tissue engineering (TE) protocol. Specifically, we developed a semi-automated image-processing pipeline which analyses the oesophageal PC-CT slices, extracting visual and quantitative (density and morphological) information. This information was proven key for performing a comprehensive evaluation of the regenerated constructs, and cannot be obtained through existing assessment tools primarily due to their destructive nature (e.g. histology). This work paves the way for using PC-CT in a wide range of TE applications which can be pivotal for unlocking the potential of this field.
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Alizadeh Sardroud H, Wanlin T, Chen X, Eames BF. Cartilage Tissue Engineering Approaches Need to Assess Fibrocartilage When Hydrogel Constructs Are Mechanically Loaded. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 9:787538. [PMID: 35096790 PMCID: PMC8790514 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.787538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chondrocytes that are impregnated within hydrogel constructs sense applied mechanical force and can respond by expressing collagens, which are deposited into the extracellular matrix (ECM). The intention of most cartilage tissue engineering is to form hyaline cartilage, but if mechanical stimulation pushes the ratio of collagen type I (Col1) to collagen type II (Col2) in the ECM too high, then fibrocartilage can form instead. With a focus on Col1 and Col2 expression, the first part of this article reviews the latest studies on hyaline cartilage regeneration within hydrogel constructs that are subjected to compression forces (one of the major types of the forces within joints) in vitro. Since the mechanical loading conditions involving compression and other forces in joints are difficult to reproduce in vitro, implantation of hydrogel constructs in vivo is also reviewed, again with a focus on Col1 and Col2 production within the newly formed cartilage. Furthermore, mechanotransduction pathways that may be related to the expression of Col1 and Col2 within chondrocytes are reviewed and examined. Also, two recently-emerged, novel approaches of load-shielding and synchrotron radiation (SR)–based imaging techniques are discussed and highlighted for future applications to the regeneration of hyaline cartilage. Going forward, all cartilage tissue engineering experiments should assess thoroughly whether fibrocartilage or hyaline cartilage is formed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Alizadeh Sardroud
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- *Correspondence: Hamed Alizadeh Sardroud,
| | - Tasker Wanlin
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - B. Frank Eames
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Duan X, Li N, Chen X, Zhu N. Characterization of Tissue Scaffolds Using Synchrotron Radiation Microcomputed Tomography Imaging. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2021; 27:573-588. [PMID: 34670397 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2021.0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Distinguishing from other traditional imaging, synchrotron radiation microcomputed tomography (SR-μCT) imaging allows for the visualization of three-dimensional objects of interest in a nondestructive and/or in situ way with better spatial resolution, deep penetration, relatively fast speed, and/or high contrast. SR-μCT has been illustrated promising for visualizing and characterizing tissue scaffolds for repairing or replacing damaged tissue or organs in tissue engineering (TE), which is of particular advance for longitudinal monitoring and tracking the success of scaffolds once implanted in animal models and/or human patients. This article presents a comprehensive review on recent studies of characterization of scaffolds based on SR-μCT and takes scaffold architectural properties, mechanical properties, degradation, swelling and wettability, and biological properties as five separate sections to introduce SR-μCT wide applications. We also discuss and highlight the unique opportunities of SR-μCT in various TE applications; conclude this article with the suggested future research directions, including the prospective applications of SR-μCT, along with its challenges and methods for improvement in the field of TE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoman Duan
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Naitao Li
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Ning Zhu
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, Canada
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Ning L, Zhu N, Smith A, Rajaram A, Hou H, Srinivasan S, Mohabatpour F, He L, Mclnnes A, Serpooshan V, Papagerakis P, Chen X. Noninvasive Three-Dimensional In Situ and In Vivo Characterization of Bioprinted Hydrogel Scaffolds Using the X-ray Propagation-Based Imaging Technique. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:25611-25623. [PMID: 34038086 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c02297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogel-based three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has been illustrated as promising to fabricate tissue scaffolds for regenerative medicine. Notably, bioprinting of hydrated and soft 3D hydrogel scaffolds with desired structural properties has not been fully achieved so far. Moreover, due to the limitations of current imaging techniques, assessment of bioprinted hydrogel scaffolds is still challenging, yet still essential for scaffold design, fabrication, and longitudinal studies. This paper presents our study on the bioprinting of hydrogel scaffolds and on the development of a novel noninvasive imaging method, based on synchrotron propagation-based imaging with computed tomography (SR-PBI-CT), to study the structural properties of hydrogel scaffolds and their responses to environmental stimuli both in situ and in vivo. Hydrogel scaffolds designed with varying structural patterns were successfully bioprinted through rigorous printing process regulations and then imaged by SR-PBI-CT within physiological environments. Subjective to controllable compressive loadings, the structural responses of scaffolds were visualized and characterized in terms of the structural deformation caused by the compressive loadings. Hydrogel scaffolds were later implanted in rats as nerve conduits for SR-PBI-CT imaging, and the obtained images illustrated their high phase contrast and were further processed for the 3D structure reconstruction and quantitative characterization. Our results show that the scaffold design and printing conditions play important roles in the printed scaffold structure and mechanical properties. More importantly, our obtained images from SR-PBI-CT allow us to visualize the details of hydrogel 3D structures with high imaging resolution. It demonstrates unique capability of this imaging technique for noninvasive, in situ characterization of 3D hydrogel structures pre- and post-implantation in diverse physiological milieus. The established imaging platform can therefore be utilized as a robust, high-precision tool for the design and longitudinal studies of hydrogel scaffold in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Ning
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Ning Zhu
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2V3, Canada
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - An Smith
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Ajay Rajaram
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Huishu Hou
- Department of Surgery, Division of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Subashree Srinivasan
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Fatemeh Mohabatpour
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Lihong He
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Department of Cell Biology, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Adam Mclnnes
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Vahid Serpooshan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Petros Papagerakis
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E4, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
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11
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Ning L, Mehta R, Cao C, Theus A, Tomov M, Zhu N, Weeks ER, Bauser-Heaton H, Serpooshan V. Embedded 3D Bioprinting of Gelatin Methacryloyl-Based Constructs with Highly Tunable Structural Fidelity. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:44563-44577. [PMID: 32966746 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c15078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting of hydrogel-based constructs at adequate consistency and reproducibility can be obtained through a compromise between the hydrogel's inherent instability and printing fidelity. There is an increasing demand to develop bioprinting modalities that enable high-fidelity fabrication of 3D hydrogel structures that closely correspond to the envisioned design. In this work, we performed a systematic, in-depth characterization and optimization of embedded 3D bioprinting to create 3D gelatin-methacryloyl (gelMA) structures with highly controlled fidelity using Carbopol as suspension bath. The role of various embedded printing process parameters in bioprinting fidelity was investigated using a combination of experimental and theoretical approaches. We examined the effect of rheological properties of gelMA and Carbopol at varying concentrations, as well as printing conditions on the volumetric flow rate of gelMA bioink. Printing speed was examined and optimized to successfully print gelMA into the support bath at varying Carbopol concentrations. Printing fidelity was characterized in terms of printed strand diameter, uniformity, angle, and area. The optimal Carbopol solution that retained filament shape at highest fidelity was determined. The efficacy of developed bioprinting approach was then demonstrated by fabricating 3D hydrogel constructs with varying geometries and visualized using an advanced synchrotron-based imaging technique. We also investigated the influence of the Carbopol medium on cross-linking and the resulting stiffness of gelMA constructs. Finally, in vitro cytotoxicity of the developed bioprinting approach was assessed by printing human umbilical vein endothelial cells encapsulated in the gelMA bioink. These results demonstrate the significance of the close interplay between bioink-support bath rheology and printing parameters and help to establish an optimized workflow for creating 3D hydrogel structures with high fidelity and cytocompatibility via embedded bioprinting techniques. This robust platform could further expand the application of bioprinted soft tissue constructs in a wide variety of biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Ning
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Riya Mehta
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Cong Cao
- Department of Physics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Andrea Theus
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Martin Tomov
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Ning Zhu
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, S7N 2 V3 Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Eric R Weeks
- Department of Physics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Holly Bauser-Heaton
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Sibley Heart Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia 30322 United States
| | - Vahid Serpooshan
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
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12
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Gil CJ, Tomov ML, Theus AS, Cetnar A, Mahmoudi M, Serpooshan V. In Vivo Tracking of Tissue Engineered Constructs. MICROMACHINES 2019; 10:E474. [PMID: 31315207 PMCID: PMC6680880 DOI: 10.3390/mi10070474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
To date, the fields of biomaterials science and tissue engineering have shown great promise in creating bioartificial tissues and organs for use in a variety of regenerative medicine applications. With the emergence of new technologies such as additive biomanufacturing and 3D bioprinting, increasingly complex tissue constructs are being fabricated to fulfill the desired patient-specific requirements. Fundamental to the further advancement of this field is the design and development of imaging modalities that can enable visualization of the bioengineered constructs following implantation, at adequate spatial and temporal resolution and high penetration depths. These in vivo tracking techniques should introduce minimum toxicity, disruption, and destruction to treated tissues, while generating clinically relevant signal-to-noise ratios. This article reviews the imaging techniques that are currently being adopted in both research and clinical studies to track tissue engineering scaffolds in vivo, with special attention to 3D bioprinted tissue constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen J Gil
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Martin L Tomov
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Andrea S Theus
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Alexander Cetnar
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Morteza Mahmoudi
- Precision Health Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Vahid Serpooshan
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30309, USA.
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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13
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Advancements in Canadian Biomaterials Research in Neurotraumatic Diagnosis and Therapies. Processes (Basel) 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/pr7060336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of biomaterials for the diagnosis and treatment of neurotraumatic ailments has been significantly advanced with our deepened knowledge of the pathophysiology of neurotrauma. Canadian research in the fields of biomaterial-based contrast agents, non-invasive axonal tracing, non-invasive scaffold imaging, scaffold patterning, 3D printed scaffolds, and drug delivery are conquering barriers to patient diagnosis and treatment for traumatic injuries to the nervous system. This review highlights some of the highly interdisciplinary Canadian research in biomaterials with a focus on neurotrauma applications.
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14
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Wang Z, Ren K, Shi X, Liu D, Wu Z, Gao K. Technical Note: Single-shot phase retrieval method for synchrotron-based high-energy x-ray grating interferometry. Med Phys 2019; 46:1317-1322. [DOI: 10.1002/mp.13399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Wang
- School of Electronic Science & Applied Physics; Hefei University of Technology; Hefei 230009 China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Imaging Technology; Capital Normal University; Beijing 100048 People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Ren
- School of Electronic Science & Applied Physics; Hefei University of Technology; Hefei 230009 China
| | - Xiaomin Shi
- School of Electronic Science & Applied Physics; Hefei University of Technology; Hefei 230009 China
| | - Dalin Liu
- School of Electronic Science & Applied Physics; Hefei University of Technology; Hefei 230009 China
| | - Zhao Wu
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory University of Science and Technology of China; 230029 Hefei China
| | - Kun Gao
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory University of Science and Technology of China; 230029 Hefei China
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15
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Ning L, Zhu N, Mohabatpour F, Sarker MD, Schreyer DJ, Chen X. Bioprinting Schwann cell-laden scaffolds from low-viscosity hydrogel compositions. J Mater Chem B 2019. [DOI: 10.1039/c9tb00669a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
A printable hydrogel composition for Schwann cell-laden tissue scaffold bioprinting in damaged nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Ning
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- College of Engineering
- University of Saskatchewan
- Canada
| | - Ning Zhu
- Canadian Light Source
- Saskatoon
- Canada
| | - Fatemeh Mohabatpour
- Division of Biomedical Engineering
- College of Engineering
- University of Saskatchewan
- Canada
| | - M. D. Sarker
- Division of Biomedical Engineering
- College of Engineering
- University of Saskatchewan
- Canada
| | - David J. Schreyer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology
- College of Medicine
- University of Saskatchewan
- Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- College of Engineering
- University of Saskatchewan
- Canada
- Division of Biomedical Engineering
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16
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Wei Z, Wu M, Li Z, Lin Z, Zeng J, Sun H, Liu X, Liu J, Li B, Zeng Y. Gadolinium-doped hollow CeO 2-ZrO 2 nanoplatform as multifunctional MRI/CT dual-modal imaging agent and drug delivery vehicle. Drug Deliv 2018; 25:353-363. [PMID: 29366349 PMCID: PMC6058605 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2018.1428241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing multifunctional nanoparticle-based theranostic platform for cancer diagnosis and treatment is highly desirable, however, most of the present theranostic platforms are fabricated via complicated structure/composition design and time-consuming synthesis procedures. Herein, the multifunctional Gd/CeO2-ZrO2/DOX-PEG nanoplatform with single nano-structure was fabricated through a facile route, which possessed MR/CT dual-model imaging and chemotherapy ability. The nanoplatform not only exhibited well-defined shapes, tunable compositions and narrow size distributions, but also presented a well anti-cancer effect and MR/CT imaging ability. Therefore, the Gd/CeO2-ZrO2/DOX-PEG nanoplatform could be applied for chemotherapy as well as dual-model MR/CT imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuwu Wei
- Liver Disease Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ming Wu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Zuanfang Li
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Zhan Lin
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jinhua Zeng
- Liver Disease Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Haiyan Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jingfeng Liu
- Liver Disease Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian Province, Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Buhong Li
- Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yongyi Zeng
- Liver Disease Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, P. R. China
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17
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Ning L, Sun H, Lelong T, Guilloteau R, Zhu N, Schreyer DJ, Chen X. 3D bioprinting of scaffolds with living Schwann cells for potential nerve tissue engineering applications. Biofabrication 2018; 10:035014. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/aacd30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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18
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3D Printed, PVA⁻PAA Hydrogel Loaded-Polycaprolactone Scaffold for the Delivery of Hydrophilic In-Situ Formed Sodium Indomethacin. MATERIALS 2018; 11:ma11061006. [PMID: 29899307 PMCID: PMC6024948 DOI: 10.3390/ma11061006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
3D printed polycaprolactone (PCL)-blended scaffolds have been designed, prepared, and evaluated in vitro in this study prior to the incorporation of a polyvinyl alcohol–polyacrylic acid (PVA–PAA) hydrogel for the delivery of in situ-formed sodium indomethacin. The prepared PCL–PVA–PAA scaffold is proposed as a potential structural support system for load-bearing tissue damage where inflammation is prevalent. Uniaxial strain testing of the PCL-blended scaffolds were undertaken to determine the scaffold’s resistance to strain in addition to its thermal, structural, and porosimetric properties. The viscoelastic properties of the incorporated PVA–PAA hydrogel has also been determined, as well as the drug release profile of the PCL–PVA–PAA scaffold. Results of these analyses noted the structural strength, thermal stability, and porosimetric properties of the scaffold, as well as the ability of the PCL–PVA–PAA scaffold to deliver sodium indomethacin in simulated physiological conditions of pH and temperature. The results of this study therefore highlight the successful design, fabrication, and in vitro evaluation of a 3D printed polymeric strain-resistant supportive platform for the delivery of sodium indomethacin.
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19
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Ghani MU, Wong MD, Omoumi FH, Zheng B, Fajardo LL, Yan A, Wu X, Liu H. Detectability comparison of simulated tumors in digital breast tomosynthesis using high-energy X-ray inline phase sensitive and commercial imaging systems. Phys Med 2018; 47:34-41. [PMID: 29609816 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This study compared the detectability of simulated tumors using a high-energy X-ray inline phase sensitive digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) prototype and a commercial attenuation-based DBT system. Each system imaged a 5-cm thick modular breast phantom with 50-50 adipose-glandular percentage density containing contrast-detail (CD) test objects to simulate different tumor sizes. A commercial DBT system acquired 15 projection views over 15 degrees (15d-15p) was used to acquire the attenuation-based projection views and to reconstruct the conventional DBT slices. Attenuation-based projection views were acquired at 32 kV, 46 mAs with a mean glandular dose (Dg) of 1.6 mGy. For acquiring phase sensitive projection views, the prototype utilized two acquisition geometries: 11 projection views were acquired over 15 degrees (15d-11p), and 17 projection views were acquired over 16 degrees (16d-17p) at 120 kV, 5.27 mAs with 1.51 mGy under the magnification (M) of 2. A phase retrieval algorithm based on the phase-attenuation duality (PAD) was applied to each projection view, and a modified Feldkamp-Davis-Kress (FDK) algorithm was used to reconstruct the phase sensitive DBT slices. Simulated tumor margins were rated as more conspicuous and better visualized for both phase sensitive acquisition geometries versus conventional DBT imaging. The CD curves confirmed the improvement in both contrast and spatial resolutions with the phase sensitive DBT imaging. The superiority of the phase sensitive DBT imaging was further endorsed by higher contrast to noise ratio (CNR) and figure-of-merit (FOM) values. The CNR improvements provided by the phase sensitive DBT prototype were sufficient to offset the noise reduction provided by the attenuation-based DBT imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad U Ghani
- Advanced Medical Imaging Center and School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA.
| | - Molly D Wong
- Advanced Medical Imaging Center and School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA.
| | - Farid H Omoumi
- Advanced Medical Imaging Center and School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA.
| | - Bin Zheng
- Advanced Medical Imaging Center and School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA.
| | - Laurie L Fajardo
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Aimin Yan
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35249, USA.
| | - Xizeng Wu
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35249, USA.
| | - Hong Liu
- Advanced Medical Imaging Center and School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA.
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20
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Lin YC, Hwu Y, Huang GS, Hsiao M, Lee TT, Yang SM, Lee TK, Chen NY, Yang SS, Chen A, Ka SM. Differential synchrotron X-ray imaging markers based on the renal microvasculature for tubulointerstitial lesions and glomerulopathy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3488. [PMID: 28615647 PMCID: PMC5471266 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03677-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High resolution synchrotron microtomography capable of revealing microvessels in three dimensional (3D) establishes distinct imaging markers of mouse kidney disease strongly associated to renal tubulointerstitial (TI) lesions and glomerulopathy. Two complementary mouse models of chronic kidney disease (CKD), unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), were used and five candidates of unique 3D imaging markers were identified. Our characterization to differentially reflect the altered microvasculature of renal TI lesions and/or glomerulopathy demonstrated these image features can be used to differentiate the disease status and the possible cause therefore qualified as image markers. These 3D imaging markers were further correlated with the histopathology and renal microvessel-based molecular study using antibodies against vascular endothelial cells (CD31), the connective tissue growth factor or the vascular endothelial growth factor. We also found that these 3D imaging markers individually characterize the development of renal TI lesions or glomerulopathy, quantitative and integrated use of all of them provide more information for differentiating the two renal conditions. Our findings thus establish a practical strategy to characterize the CKD-associated renal injuries by the microangiography-based 3D imaging and highlight the impact of dysfunctional microvasculature as a whole on the pathogenesis of the renal lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chuan Lin
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yeukuang Hwu
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Guo-Shu Huang
- Department of Radiology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Michael Hsiao
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Tse Lee
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Min Yang
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Kuo Lee
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nan-Yow Chen
- National Center for High-Performance Computing, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Sen Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ann Chen
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Shuk-Man Ka
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Aerospace and Undersea Medicine, Academy of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
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21
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Ghani MU, Wong MD, Wu D, Zheng B, Fajardo LL, Yan A, Fuh J, Wu X, Liu H. Detectability comparison between a high energy x-ray phase sensitive and mammography systems in imaging phantoms with varying glandular-adipose ratios. Phys Med Biol 2017; 62:3523-3538. [PMID: 28379851 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/aa644b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to demonstrate the potential benefits of using high energy x-rays in comparison with the conventional mammography imaging systems for phase sensitive imaging of breast tissues with varying glandular-adipose ratios. This study employed two modular phantoms simulating the glandular (G) and adipose (A) breast tissue composition in 50 G-50 A and 70 G-30 A percentage densities. Each phantom had a thickness of 5 cm with a contrast detail test pattern embedded in the middle. For both phantoms, the phase contrast images were acquired using a micro-focus x-ray source operated at 120 kVp and 4.5 mAs, with a magnification factor (M) of 2.5 and a detector with a 50 µm pixel pitch. The mean glandular dose delivered to the 50 G-50 A and 70 G-30 A phantom sets were 1.33 and 1.3 mGy, respectively. A phase retrieval algorithm based on the phase attenuation duality that required only a single phase contrast image was applied. Conventional low energy mammography images were acquired using GE Senographe DS and Hologic Selenia systems utilizing their automatic exposure control (AEC) settings. In addition, the automatic contrast mode (CNT) was also used for the acquisition with the GE system. The AEC mode applied higher dose settings for the 70 G-30 A phantom set. As compared to the phase contrast images, the dose levels for the AEC mode acquired images were similar while the dose levels for the CNT mode were almost double. The observer study, contrast-to-noise ratio and figure of merit comparisons indicated a large improvement with the phase retrieved images in comparison to the AEC mode images acquired with the clinical systems for both density levels. As the glandular composition increased, the detectability of smaller discs decreased with the clinical systems, particularly with the GE system, even at higher dose settings. As compared to the CNT mode (double dose) images, the observer study also indicated that the phase retrieved images provided similar or improved detection for all disc sizes except for the disk diameters of 2 mm and 1 mm for the 50 G-50 A phantom and 3 mm and 0.5 mm for the 70 G-30 A phantom. This study demonstrated the potential of utilizing a high energy phase sensitive x-ray imaging system to improve lesion detection and reduce radiation dose when imaging breast tissues with varying glandular compositions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad U Ghani
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, United States of America
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22
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3D characterization of morphological changes in the intervertebral disc and endplate during aging: A propagation phase contrast synchrotron micro-tomography study. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43094. [PMID: 28266560 PMCID: PMC5339826 DOI: 10.1038/srep43094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A better understanding of functional changes in the intervertebral disc (IVD) and interaction with endplate is essential to elucidate the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration disease (IDDD). To date, the simultaneous depiction of 3D micro-architectural changes of endplate with aging and interaction with IVD remains a technical challenge. We aim to characterize the 3D morphology changes of endplate and IVD during aging using PPCST. The lumbar vertebral level 4/5 IVDs harvested from 15-day-, 4- and 24-month-old mice were initially evaluated by PPCST with histological sections subsequently analyzed to confirm the imaging efficiency. Quantitative assessments of age-related trends after aging, including mean diameter, volume fraction and connectivity of the canals, and endplate porosity and thickness, reached a peak at 4 months and significantly decreased at 24 months. The IVD volume consistently exhibited same trend of variation with the endplate after aging. In this study, PPCST simultaneously provided comprehensive details of 3D morphological changes of the IVD and canal network in the endplate and the interaction after aging. The results suggest that PPCST has the potential to provide a new platform for attaining a deeper insight into the pathogenesis of IDDD, providing potential therapeutic targets.
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23
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Bawolin NK, Chen XB. Remote Determination of Time-Dependent Stiffness of Surface-Degrading-Polymer Scaffolds Via Synchrotron-Based Imaging. J Biomech Eng 2017; 139:2607050. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4036021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Surface-degrading polymers have been widely used to fabricate scaffolds with the mechanical properties appropriate for tissue regeneration/repair. During their surface degradation, the material properties of polymers remain approximately unchanged, but the scaffold geometry and thus mechanical properties vary with time. This paper presents a novel method to determine the time-dependent mechanical properties, particularly stiffness, of scaffolds from the geometric changes captured by synchrotron-based imaging, with the help of finite element analysis (FEA). Three-dimensional (3D) tissue scaffolds were fabricated from surface-degrading polymers, and during their degradation, the tissue scaffolds were imaged via the synchrotron-based imaging to characterize their changing geometry. On this basis, the stiffness behavior of scaffolds was estimated from the FEA, and the results obtained were compared to the direct measurements of scaffold stiffness from the load–displacement material testing. The comparison illustrates that the Young's moduli estimated from the FEA and characterized geometry are in agreement with the ones of direct measurements. The developed method of estimating the mechanical behavior was also demonstrated effective with a nondegrading scaffold that displays the nonlinear stress–strain behavior. The in vivo monitoring of Young's modulus by morphology characterization also suggests the feasibility of characterizing experimentally the difference between in vivo and in vitro surface degradation of tissue engineering constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. K. Bawolin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - X. B. Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
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Jha DK, Saikia K, Chakrabarti S, Bhattacharya K, Varadarajan KS, Patel AB, Goyary D, Chattopadhyay P, Deb P. Direct one-pot synthesis of glutathione capped hydrophilic FePt-CdS nanoprobe for efficient bimodal imaging application. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2017; 72:415-424. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2016.11.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Olubamiji AD, Zhu N, Chang T, Nwankwo CK, Izadifar Z, Honaramooz A, Chen X, Eames BF. Traditional Invasive and Synchrotron-Based Noninvasive Assessments of Three-Dimensional-Printed Hybrid Cartilage Constructs In Situ. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2017; 23:156-168. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2016.0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adeola D. Olubamiji
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Ning Zhu
- Canadian Light Source Inc., Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Tuanjie Chang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | | | - Zohreh Izadifar
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Ali Honaramooz
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - B. Frank Eames
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
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26
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Wysokinski TW, Ianowski JP, Luan X, Belev G, Miller D, Webb MA, Zhu N, Chapman D. BMIT facility at the Canadian Light Source: Advances in X-ray phase-sensitive imaging. Phys Med 2016; 32:1753-1758. [PMID: 27453203 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2016.07.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The BioMedical Imaging and Therapy (BMIT) facility [1,2] located at the Canadian Light Source, provides synchrotron-specific imaging and radiation therapy capabilities. There are two separate beamlines used for experiments: the bending magnet (05B1-1) and the insertion device (05ID-2) beamline. The bending magnet beamline provides access to monochromatic beam spanning a spectral range of 15-40keV, and the beam is 240mm wide in the POE-2 experimental hutch. Users can also perform experiments with polychromatic (pink) beam. The insertion device beamline was officially opened for general user program in 2015. The source for the ID beamline is a multi-pole, superconducting 4.3T wiggler. The high field gives a critical energy over 20keV. The optics hutches prepare a beam that is 220mm wide in the last experimental hutch SOE-1. The monochromatic spectral range spans 25-150+keV. Several different X-ray detectors are available for both beamlines, with resolutions ranging from 2μm to 200μm. BMIT provides a number of imaging techniques including standard absorption X-ray imaging, K-edge subtraction imaging (KES), in-line phase contrast imaging (also known as propagation based imaging, PBI) and Diffraction Enhanced Imaging/Analyzer Based Imaging (DEI/ABI), all in either projection or CT mode. PBI and DEI/ABI are particularly important tools for BMIT users since these techniques enable visualization of soft tissue and allow for low dose imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J P Ianowski
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - X Luan
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - G Belev
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - D Miller
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - M A Webb
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - N Zhu
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - D Chapman
- Canadian Light Source, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Synchrotron-Based in Situ Characterization of the Scaffold Mass Loss from Erosion Degradation. J Funct Biomater 2016; 7:jfb7030017. [PMID: 27399789 PMCID: PMC5040990 DOI: 10.3390/jfb7030017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The mass loss behavior of degradable tissue scaffolds is critical to their lifespan and other degradation-related properties including mechanical strength and mass transport characteristics. This paper presents a novel method based on synchrotron imaging to characterize the scaffold mass loss from erosion degradation in situ, or without the need of extracting scaffolds once implanted. Specifically, the surface-eroding degradation of scaffolds in a degrading medium was monitored in situ by synchrotron-based imaging; and the time-dependent geometry of scaffolds captured by images was then employed to estimate their mass loss with time, based on the mathematical model that was adopted from the literature of surface erosion with the experimentally-identified model parameters. Acceptable agreement between experimental results and model predictions was observed for scaffolds in a cylindrical shape, made from poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) and polycaprolactone (PCL). This study illustrates that geometry evaluation by synchrotron-based imaging is an effective means to in situ characterize the scaffold mass loss as well as possibly other degradation-related properties.
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28
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Data of low-dose phase-based X-ray imaging for in situ soft tissue engineering assessments. Data Brief 2016; 6:644-51. [PMID: 26909381 PMCID: PMC4735475 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2015.12.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 12/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This article presents the data of using three phase-based X-ray imaging techniques to characterize biomaterial scaffold and soft tissues in situ, as reported in our study "Low-dose phase-based X-ray imaging techniques for in situ soft tissue engineering assessments" [1]. The examined parameters include the radiation dose, scan time, and image quality, which are all critical to longitudinal in situ live animal assessments. The data presented were obtained from three dimensional imaging of scaffolds in situ cartilage by means of synchrotron-based computed tomography-diffraction enhanced imaging (CT-DEI), analyzer based imaging (CT-ABI), and in-line phase contrast imaging (CT-PCI) at standard and low dose imaging modalities.
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