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Esposito M, Astolfo A, Cipiccia S, Jones CM, Savvidis S, Ferrara JD, Endrizzi M, Dudhia J, Olivo A. Technical note: Cartilage imaging with sub-cellular resolution using a laboratory-based phase-contrast x-ray microscope. Med Phys 2023; 50:6130-6136. [PMID: 37431640 PMCID: PMC10947188 DOI: 10.1002/mp.16599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microscopic imaging of cartilage is a key tool for the study and development of treatments for osteoarthritis. When cellular and sub-cellular resolution is required, histology remains the gold standard approach, albeit limited by the lack of volumetric information as well as by processing artifacts. Cartilage imaging with the sub-cellular resolution has only been demonstrated in the synchrotron environment. PURPOSE To provide a proof-of-concept demonstration of the capability of a laboratory-based x-ray phase-contrast microscope to resolve sub-cellular features in a cartilage sample. METHODS This work is based on a laboratory-based x-ray microscope using intensity-modulation masks. The structured nature of the beam, resulting from the mask apertures, allows the retrieval of three contrast channels, namely, transmission, refraction and dark-field, with resolution depending only on the mask aperture width. An ex vivo equine cartilage sample was imaged with the x-ray microscope and results were validated with synchrotron tomography and histology. RESULTS Individual chondrocytes, that is, cells responsible for cartilage formation, could be detected with the laboratory-based microscope. The complementarity of the three retrieved contrast channels allowed the detection of sub-cellular features in the chondrocytes. CONCLUSIONS We provide the first proof-of-concept of imaging cartilage tissue with sub-cellular resolution using a laboratory-based x-ray microscope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Esposito
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Alberto Astolfo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Silvia Cipiccia
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Diamond Light SourceHarwell Science and Innovation CampusDidcotUK
| | | | - Savvas Savvidis
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Marco Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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Pil-Ali A, Adnani S, Scott CC, Karim KS. Direct Conversion X-ray Detector with Micron-Scale Pixel Pitch for Edge-Illumination and Propagation-Based X-ray Phase-Contrast Imaging. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:5890. [PMID: 35957449 PMCID: PMC9371434 DOI: 10.3390/s22155890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we investigate the potential of employing a direct conversion integration mode X-ray detector with micron-scale pixels in two different X-ray phase-contrast imaging (XPCi) configurations, propagation-based (PB) and edge illumination (EI). Both PB-XPCi and EI-XPCi implementations are evaluated through a wave optics model-numerically simulated in MATLAB-and are compared based on their contrast, edge-enhancement, visibility, and dose efficiency characteristics. The EI-XPCi configuration, in general, demonstrates higher performance compared to PB-XPCi, considering a setup with the same X-ray source and detector. However, absorption masks quality (thickness of X-ray absorption material) and environmental vibration effect are two potential challenges for EI-XPCi employing a detector with micron-scale pixels. Simulation results confirm that the behavior of an EI-XPCi system employing a high-resolution detector is susceptible to its absorption masks thickness and misalignment. This work demonstrates the potential and feasibility of employing a high-resolution direct conversion detector for phase-contrast imaging applications where higher dose efficiency, higher contrast images, and a more compact imaging system are of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdollah Pil-Ali
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Sahar Adnani
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | | | - Karim S. Karim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- KA Imaging, 560 Parkside Dr #3, Waterloo, ON N2L 5Z4, Canada
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Olivo A. Edge-illumination x-ray phase-contrast imaging. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2021; 33:363002. [PMID: 34167096 PMCID: PMC8276004 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ac0e6e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Although early demonstration dates back to the mid-sixties, x-ray phase-contrast imaging (XPCI) became hugely popular in the mid-90s, thanks to the advent of 3rd generation synchrotron facilities. Its ability to reveal object features that had so far been considered invisible to x-rays immediately suggested great potential for applications across the life and the physical sciences, and an increasing number of groups worldwide started experimenting with it. At that time, it looked like a synchrotron facility was strictly necessary to perform XPCI with some degree of efficiency-the only alternative being micro-focal sources, the limited flux of which imposed excessively long exposure times. However, new approaches emerged in the mid-00s that overcame this limitation, and allowed XPCI implementations with conventional, non-micro-focal x-ray sources. One of these approaches showing particular promise for 'real-world' applications is edge-illumination XPCI: this article describes the key steps in its evolution in the context of contemporary developments in XPCI research, and presents its current state-of-the-art, especially in terms of transition towards practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, UCL, London, United Kingdom
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Hagen CK, Endrizzi M, Towns R, Meganck JA, Olivo A. A Preliminary Investigation into the Use of Edge Illumination X-ray Phase Contrast Micro-CT for Preclinical Imaging. Mol Imaging Biol 2021; 22:539-548. [PMID: 31250331 PMCID: PMC7250795 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-019-01396-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To enable a preliminary assessment of the suitability of edge illumination (EI) x-ray phase contrast (XPC) micro x-ray computed tomography (micro-CT) to preclinical imaging. Specifically, to understand how different acquisition schemes and their combination with dedicated data processing affect contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and spatial resolution, while providing control over scan time and radiation dose delivery. Procedures Deceased mice (n = 3) were scanned with an EI XPC micro-CT setup operated under different settings, leading to scan times between 18 h and 13 min. For the shortest scan, the entrance dose was measured with a calibrated PTW 23344 ion chamber. Different data processing methods were applied, retrieving either separate attenuation and phase images, or hybrid (combined attenuation and phase) images. A quantitative comparison was performed based on CNR and spatial resolution measurements for a soft tissue interface. Results All phase-based images have led to a higher CNR for the considered soft tissue interface than the attenuation image, independent of scan time. The best relative CNR (a sixfold increase) was observed in one of the hybrid images. Spatial resolution was found to be connected to scan time, with a resolution of approximately 20 μm and 60 μm achieved for the longest and shortest scans, respectively. An entrance dose of approximately 300 mGy was estimated for the scan performed within 13 min. Conclusions Despite their preliminary nature, our results suggest that EI XPC bears potential for enhancing the utility of preclinical micro-CT, and, pending further research and development, could ultimately become a valuable technique in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte K Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Rebecca Towns
- Biological Services, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Jeffrey A Meganck
- Research and Development, Life Sciences Technology, PerkinElmer, 68 Elm St, Hopkinton, MA, 01748, USA
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
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Abstract
Numerous advances have been made in X-ray technology in recent years. X-ray imaging plays an important role in the nondestructive exploration of the internal structures of objects. However, the contrast of X-ray absorption images remains low, especially for materials with low atomic numbers, such as biological samples. X-ray phase-contrast images have an intrinsically higher contrast than absorption images. In this review, the principles, milestones, and recent progress of X-ray phase-contrast imaging methods are demonstrated. In addition, prospective applications are presented.
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Convolutional neuronal networks combined with X-ray phase-contrast imaging for a fast and observer-independent discrimination of cartilage and liver diseases stages. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20007. [PMID: 33203975 PMCID: PMC7673137 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76937-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We applied transfer learning using Convolutional Neuronal Networks to high resolution X-ray phase contrast computed tomography datasets and tested the potential of the systems to accurately classify Computed Tomography images of different stages of two diseases, i.e. osteoarthritis and liver fibrosis. The purpose is to identify a time-effective and observer-independent methodology to identify pathological conditions. Propagation-based X-ray phase contrast imaging WAS used with polychromatic X-rays to obtain a 3D visualization of 4 human cartilage plugs and 6 rat liver samples with a voxel size of 0.7 × 0.7 × 0.7 µm3 and 2.2 × 2.2 × 2.2 µm3, respectively. Images with a size of 224 × 224 pixels are used to train three pre-trained convolutional neuronal networks for data classification, which are the VGG16, the Inception V3, and the Xception networks. We evaluated the performance of the three systems in terms of classification accuracy and studied the effect of the variation of the number of inputs, training images and of iterations. The VGG16 network provides the highest classification accuracy when the training and the validation-test of the network are performed using data from the same samples for both the cartilage (99.8%) and the liver (95.5%) datasets. The Inception V3 and Xception networks achieve an accuracy of 84.7% (43.1%) and of 72.6% (53.7%), respectively, for the cartilage (liver) images. By using data from different samples for the training and validation-test processes, the Xception network provided the highest test accuracy for the cartilage dataset (75.7%), while for the liver dataset the VGG16 network gave the best results (75.4%). By using convolutional neuronal networks we show that it is possible to classify large datasets of biomedical images in less than 25 min on a 8 CPU processor machine providing a precise, robust, fast and observer-independent method for the discrimination/classification of different stages of osteoarthritis and liver diseases.
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Zanjani-Pour S, Giorgi M, Dall'Ara E. Development of Subject Specific Finite Element Models of the Mouse Knee Joint for Preclinical Applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:558815. [PMID: 33178671 PMCID: PMC7593650 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.558815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is the most common musculoskeletal disabling disease worldwide. Preclinical studies on mice are commonly performed to test new interventions. Finite element (FE) models can be used to study joint mechanics, but usually simplified geometries are used. The aim of this project was to create a realistic subject specific FE model of the mouse knee joint for the assessment of joint mechanical properties. Four different FE models of a C57Bl/6 female mouse knee joint were created based on micro-computed tomography images of specimens stained with phosphotungstic acid in order to include different features: individual cartilage layers with meniscus, individual cartilage layers without meniscus, homogeneous cartilage layers with two different thickness values, and homogeneous cartilage with same thickness for both condyles. They were all analyzed under compressive displacement and the cartilage contact pressure was compared at 0.3 N reaction force. Peak contact pressure in the femur cartilage was 25% lower in the model with subject specific cartilage compared to the simpler model with homogeneous cartilage. A much more homogeneous pressure distribution across the joint was observed in the model with meniscus, with cartilage peak pressure 5–34% lower in the two condyles compared to that with individual cartilage layers. In conclusion, modeling the meniscus and individual cartilage was found to affect the pressure distribution in the mouse knee joint under compressive load and should be included in realistic models for assessing the effect of interventions preclinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahand Zanjani-Pour
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Mellanby Center for Bone Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.,Insigneo Institute for in Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mario Giorgi
- Insigneo Institute for in Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.,Certara Quantitative System Pharmacology, Certara UK Ltd., Simcyp Division, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico Dall'Ara
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Mellanby Center for Bone Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.,Insigneo Institute for in Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Yang G, Sun S, Wang J, Li W, Wang X, Yuan L, Li S. S-Allylmercaptocysteine Targets Nrf2 in Osteoarthritis Treatment Through NOX4/NF-κB Pathway. Drug Des Devel Ther 2020; 14:4533-4546. [PMID: 33149551 PMCID: PMC7604485 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s258973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to explore the potential role and mechanism of garlic-derived S-allylmercaptocysteine (SAMC), the major water-soluble fraction of garlic, in osteoarthritis (OA) both in vivo and in vitro. METHODS The effect of SAMC in a surgical-induced OA model was examined by X-ray, staining, ELISA, and immunoblotting. Then the key role of Nrf2 by SAMC treatment in IL-1β stimulated chondrocytes in vitro was determined by gene-knockdown technique. RESULTS SAMC could stabilize the extracellular matrix (ECM) by decreasing metalloproteinase (MMPs) expression to suppress type II collagen degradation in OA rats. The inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, were elevated in OA, which could be down-regulated by SAMC treatment. This effect was parallel with NF-κB signaling inhibition by SAMC. As oxidative stress has been shown to participate in the inflammatory pathways in OA conditions, the key regulator Nrf2 in redox-homeostasis was evaluated in SAMC-treated OA rats. Nrf2 and its down-stream gene NQO-1 were activated in the SAMC-treated group, accompanied by NAD(P)H oxidases 4 (NOX4) expression down-regulated. As a result, the toxic lipid peroxidation byproduct 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) was reduced in articular cartilage. In IL-1β-stimulated primary rat chondrocytes, which could mimic OA in vitro, SAMC could ameliorate collagen destruction, inhibit inflammation, and maintain redox-homeostasis. Interestingly, after Nrf2 gene knockdown by adenovirus, the protective effect of SAMC in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes disappeared. CONCLUSION Overall, our study demonstrated that SAMC targeted Nrf2 to protect OA both in vivo and in vitro, which would be a new pharmaceutical way for OA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan250021, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shui Sun
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan250021, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan250021, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan250021, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianquan Wang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan250021, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Yuan
- Department of Joint Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan250021, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siying Li
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan250012, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
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3D grating-based X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography for high-resolution quantitative assessment of cartilage: An experimental feasibility study with 3T MRI, 7T MRI and biomechanical correlation. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212106. [PMID: 30763375 PMCID: PMC6375589 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Aim of this study was, to demonstrate the feasibility of high-resolution grating-based X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography (PCCT) for quantitative assessment of cartilage. Materials and methods In an experimental setup, 12 osteochondral samples were harvested from n = 6 bovine knees (n = 2 each). From each knee, one cartilage sample was degraded using 2.5% Trypsin. In addition to PCCT and biomechanical cartilage stiffness measurements, 3T and 7T MRI was performed including MSME SE T2 and ME GE T2* mapping sequences for relaxationtime measurements. Paired t-tests and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were used for statistical analyses. Results PCCT provided high-resolution images for improved morphological cartilage evaluation as compared to 3T and 7T MRI. Quantitative analyses revealed significant differences between the superficial and the deep cartilage layer for T2 mapping as well as for PCCT (P<0.05). No significant difference was detected for PCCT between healthy and degraded samples (P>0.05). MRI and stiffness measurements showed significant differences between healthy and degraded osteochondral samples. Accuracy in the prediction of cartilage degradation was excellent for MRI and biomechanical analyses. Conclusion In conclusion, high-resolution grating-based X-ray PCCT cartilage imaging is feasible. In addition to MRI and biomechanical analyses it provides complementary, water content independent, information for improved morphological and quantitative characterization of articular cartilage ultrastructure.
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Giuliani A, Mazzoni S, Mele L, Liccardo D, Tromba G, Langer M. Synchrotron Phase Tomography: An Emerging Imaging Method for Microvessel Detection in Engineered Bone of Craniofacial Districts. Front Physiol 2017; 8:769. [PMID: 29085301 PMCID: PMC5649129 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The engineering of large 3D constructs, such as certain craniofacial bone districts, is nowadays a critical challenge. Indeed, the amount of oxygen needed for cell survival is able to reach a maximum diffusion distance of ~150–200 μm from the original vascularization vector, often hampering the long-term survival of the regenerated tissues. Thus, the rapid growth of new blood vessels, delivering oxygen and nutrients also to the inner cells of the bone grafts, is mandatory for their long-term function in clinical practice. Unfortunately, significant progress in this direction is currently hindered by a lack of methods with which to visualize these processes in 3D and reliably quantify them. In this regard, a challenging method for simultaneous 3D imaging and analysis of microvascularization and bone microstructure has emerged in recent years: it is based on the use of synchrotron phase tomography. This technique is able to simultaneously identify multiple tissue features in a craniofacial bone site (e.g., the microvascular and the calcified tissue structure). Moreover, it overcomes the intrinsic limitations of both histology, achieving only a 2D characterization, and conventional tomographic approaches, poorly resolving the vascularization net in the case of an incomplete filling of the newly formed microvessels by contrast agents. Indeed, phase tomography, being based on phase differences among the scattered X-ray waves, is capable of discriminating tissues with similar absorption coefficients (like vessels and woven bone) in defined experimental conditions. The approach reviewed here is based on the most recent experiences applied to bone regeneration in the craniofacial region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Giuliani
- Sezione di Biochimica, Biologia e Fisica Applicata, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Specialistiche e Odontostomatologiche, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Serena Mazzoni
- Sezione di Biochimica, Biologia e Fisica Applicata, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Specialistiche e Odontostomatologiche, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Luigi Mele
- Sezione di Biotecnologie, Istologia Medica e Biologia Molecolare, Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Liccardo
- Sezione di Biotecnologie, Istologia Medica e Biologia Molecolare, Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Max Langer
- Centre de Recherche en Acquisition et Traitment d'Images pour la Santé (CREATIS), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 5220, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (Inserm) U1206, Université de Lyon, INSA-Lyon, Villeurbanne, France
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Lakin BA, Snyder BD, Grinstaff MW. Assessing Cartilage Biomechanical Properties: Techniques for Evaluating the Functional Performance of Cartilage in Health and Disease. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2017; 19:27-55. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-071516-044525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A. Lakin
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
| | - Brian D. Snyder
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
- Orthopedic Center, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Mark W. Grinstaff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
- Department of Chemistry, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
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Endrizzi M, Vittoria FA, Rigon L, Dreossi D, Iacoviello F, Shearing PR, Olivo A. X-ray Phase-Contrast Radiography and Tomography with a Multiaperture Analyzer. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:243902. [PMID: 28665636 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.243902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We present a multiaperture analyzer setup for performing x-ray phase contrast imaging in planar and three-dimensional modalities. The method is based on strongly structuring the x-ray beam with an amplitude modulator, before it reaches the sample, and on a multiaperture analyzing element before detection. A multislice representation of the sample is used to establish a quantitative relation between projection images and the corresponding three-dimensional distributions, leading to successful tomographic reconstruction. Sample absorption, phase, and scattering are retrieved from the measurement of five intensity projections. The method is tested on custom-built phantoms with synchrotron radiation: sample absorption and phase can be reliably retrieved also in combination with strong scatterers, simultaneously attaining high sensitivity and dynamic range.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - F A Vittoria
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - L Rigon
- Physics Department, University of Trieste, Via Valerio 2, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nulceare, Sezione di Trieste, Via Valerio 2, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - D Dreossi
- Sincrotrone Trieste SCpA, S.S. 14 km 163.5, 34012 Basovizza Trieste, Italy
| | - F Iacoviello
- Electrochemical Innovation Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - P R Shearing
- Electrochemical Innovation Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 7JE, United Kingdom
| | - A Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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Astolfo A, Endrizzi M, Vittoria FA, Diemoz PC, Price B, Haig I, Olivo A. Large field of view, fast and low dose multimodal phase-contrast imaging at high x-ray energy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2187. [PMID: 28526835 PMCID: PMC5438381 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02412-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
X-ray phase contrast imaging (XPCI) is an innovative imaging technique which extends the contrast capabilities of 'conventional' absorption based x-ray systems. However, so far all XPCI implementations have suffered from one or more of the following limitations: low x-ray energies, small field of view (FOV) and long acquisition times. Those limitations relegated XPCI to a 'research-only' technique with an uncertain future in terms of large scale, high impact applications. We recently succeeded in designing, realizing and testing an XPCI system, which achieves significant steps toward simultaneously overcoming these limitations. Our system combines, for the first time, large FOV, high energy and fast scanning. Importantly, it is capable of providing high image quality at low x-ray doses, compatible with or even below those currently used in medical imaging. This extends the use of XPCI to areas which were unpractical or even inaccessible to previous XPCI solutions. We expect this will enable a long overdue translation into application fields such as security screening, industrial inspections and large FOV medical radiography - all with the inherent advantages of the XPCI multimodality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Astolfo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fabio A Vittoria
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul C Diemoz
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Price
- X-Tek Systems-Nikon, Tring Business Centre, Icknield Way, Tring, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Ian Haig
- X-Tek Systems-Nikon, Tring Business Centre, Icknield Way, Tring, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom.
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Stok KS, Besler BA, Steiner TH, Villarreal Escudero AV, Zulliger MA, Wilke M, Atal K, Quintin A, Koller B, Müller R, Nesic D. Three-Dimensional Quantitative Morphometric Analysis (QMA) for In Situ Joint and Tissue Assessment of Osteoarthritis in a Preclinical Rabbit Disease Model. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147564. [PMID: 26808542 PMCID: PMC4726512 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This work utilises advances in multi-tissue imaging, and incorporates new metrics which define in situ joint changes and individual tissue changes in osteoarthritis (OA). The aims are to (1) demonstrate a protocol for processing intact animal joints for microCT to visualise relevant joint, bone and cartilage structures for understanding OA in a preclinical rabbit model, and (2) introduce a comprehensive three-dimensional (3D) quantitative morphometric analysis (QMA), including an assessment of reproducibility. Sixteen rabbit joints with and without transection of the anterior cruciate ligament were scanned with microCT and contrast agents, and processed for histology. Semi-quantitative evaluation was performed on matching two-dimensional (2D) histology and microCT images. Subsequently, 3D QMA was performed; including measures of cartilage, subchondral cortical and epiphyseal bone, and novel tibio-femoral joint metrics. Reproducibility of the QMA was tested on seven additional joints. A significant correlation was observed in cartilage thickness from matching histology-microCT pairs. The lateral compartment of operated joints had larger joint space width, thicker femoral cartilage and reduced bone volume, while osteophytes could be detected quantitatively. Measures between the in situ tibia and femur indicated an altered loading scenario. High measurement reproducibility was observed for all new parameters; with ICC ranging from 0.754 to 0.998. In conclusion, this study provides a novel 3D QMA to quantify macro and micro tissue measures in the joint of a rabbit OA model. New metrics were established consisting of: an angle to quantitatively measure osteophytes (σ), an angle to indicate erosion between the lateral and medial femoral condyles (ρ), a vector defining altered angulation (λ, α, β, γ) and a twist angle (τ) measuring instability and tissue degeneration between the femur and tibia, a length measure of joint space width (JSW), and a slope and intercept (m, Χ) of joint contact to demonstrate altered loading with disease progression, as well as traditional bone and cartilage and histo-morphometry measures. We demonstrate correlation of microCT and histology, sensitive discrimination of OA change and robust reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn S. Stok
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- SCANCO Medical AG, Bruttisellen, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | | | | | - Markus Wilke
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Kailash Atal
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aurelie Quintin
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Ralph Müller
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dobrila Nesic
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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15
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Hagen CK, Maghsoudlou P, Totonelli G, Diemoz PC, Endrizzi M, Rigon L, Menk RH, Arfelli F, Dreossi D, Brun E, Coan P, Bravin A, De Coppi P, Olivo A. High contrast microstructural visualization of natural acellular matrices by means of phase-based x-ray tomography. Sci Rep 2015; 5:18156. [PMID: 26657471 PMCID: PMC4677348 DOI: 10.1038/srep18156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Acellular scaffolds obtained via decellularization are a key instrument in regenerative medicine both per se and to drive the development of future-generation synthetic scaffolds that could become available off-the-shelf. In this framework, imaging is key to the understanding of the scaffolds’ internal structure as well as their interaction with cells and other organs, including ideally post-implantation. Scaffolds of a wide range of intricate organs (esophagus, lung, liver and small intestine) were imaged with x-ray phase contrast computed tomography (PC-CT). Image quality was sufficiently high to visualize scaffold microarchitecture and to detect major anatomical features, such as the esophageal mucosal-submucosal separation, pulmonary alveoli and intestinal villi. These results are a long-sought step for the field of regenerative medicine; until now, histology and scanning electron microscopy have been the gold standard to study the scaffold structure. However, they are both destructive: hence, they are not suitable for imaging scaffolds prior to transplantation, and have no prospect for post-transplantation use. PC-CT, on the other hand, is non-destructive, 3D and fully quantitative. Importantly, not only do we demonstrate achievement of high image quality at two different synchrotron facilities, but also with commercial x-ray equipment, which makes the method available to any research laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte K Hagen
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | | | - Giorgia Totonelli
- University College London, Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Paul C Diemoz
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Luigi Rigon
- University of Trieste, Department of Physics, Trieste, 34127, Italy.,Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Trieste, Trieste, 34127, Italy
| | | | - Fulvia Arfelli
- University of Trieste, Department of Physics, Trieste, 34127, Italy
| | - Diego Dreossi
- Sincrotrone Trieste SCpA, Basovizza/Trieste, 34012, Italy
| | - Emmanuel Brun
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, 38043, France
| | - Paola Coan
- Ludwig Maximilians University, Department of Physics, Garching, 85748, Germany.,Ludwig Maximilians University, Faculty of Medicine, Grosshadern-Munich, 81377, Germany
| | - Alberto Bravin
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, 38043, France
| | - Paolo De Coppi
- University College London, Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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16
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Marenzana M, Vande Velde G. Refine, reduce, replace: Imaging of fibrosis and arthritis in animal models. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2015; 29:715-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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17
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Phase-Contrast Radiography Enables Detection of Early Changes in Articular Cartilage in a Mouse Model of Osteoarthritis. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2015; 94:644-8. [DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000000232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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18
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Diemoz PC, Olivo A. On the origin of contrast in edge illumination X-ray phase-contrast imaging. OPTICS EXPRESS 2014; 22:28199-214. [PMID: 25402060 DOI: 10.1364/oe.22.028199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Edge illumination (EI) has emerged as an X-ray phase-contrast imaging (XPCi) modality which could present significant advantages in terms of translation to clinical and laboratory applications. In this paper, we model its signal through the use of the "transport of intensity" equation. The validity conditions for this approach and its relationship with previous theoretical models for EI XPCi are discussed. The proposed model enables a simple estimation of the different contributions to the signal, which is shown to complement previously obtained results. In particular, it allows taking into account the effect of both slowly and rapidly varying refraction angles, corresponding to large and small object features. The derived framework is then used to investigate the effect on the signal of the smoothness of the mask edges, of the blurring from the source size and of the width of the object edge.
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19
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Das Neves Borges P, Forte A, Vincent T, Dini D, Marenzana M. Rapid, automated imaging of mouse articular cartilage by microCT for early detection of osteoarthritis and finite element modelling of joint mechanics. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2014; 22:1419-28. [PMID: 25278053 PMCID: PMC4192140 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2014.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/12/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mouse articular cartilage (AC) is mostly assessed by histopathology and its mechanics is poorly characterised. In this study: (1) we developed non-destructive imaging for quantitative assessment of AC morphology and (2) evaluated the mechanical implications of AC structural changes. METHODS Knee joints obtained from naïve mice and from mice with osteoarthritis (OA) induced by destabilization of medial meniscus (DMM) for 4 and 12 weeks, were imaged by phosphotungstic acid (PTA) contrast enhanced micro-computed tomography (PTA-CT) and scored by conventional histopathology. Our software (Matlab) automatically segmented tibial AC, drew two regions centred on each tibial condyle and evaluated the volumes included. A finite element (FE) model of the whole mouse joint was implemented to evaluate AC mechanics. RESULTS Our method achieved rapid, automated analysis of mouse AC (structural parameters in <10 h from knee dissection) and was able to localise AC loss in the central region of the medial tibial condyle. AC thickness decreased by 15% at 4 weeks and 25% at 12 weeks post DMM surgery, whereas histopathology scores were significantly increased only at 12 weeks. FE simulations estimated that AC thinning at early-stages in the DMM model (4 weeks) increases contact pressures (+39%) and Tresca stresses (+43%) in AC. CONCLUSION PTA-CT imaging is a fast and simple method to assess OA in murine models. Once applied more extensively to confirm its robustness, our approach will be useful for rapidly phenotyping genetically modified mice used for OA research and to improve the current understanding of mouse cartilage mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A.E. Forte
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - T.L. Vincent
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7HE, UK
| | - D. Dini
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - M. Marenzana
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK,Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7HE, UK,Address correspondence and reprint requests to: M. Marenzana, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, Royal School of Mines Building, London, UK. Tel: 44-(0)-20-7594-5311.
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20
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Diemoz PC, Vittoria FA, Olivo A. Spatial resolution of edge illumination X-ray phase-contrast imaging. OPTICS EXPRESS 2014; 22:15514-29. [PMID: 24977810 DOI: 10.1364/oe.22.015514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We analyze the spatial resolution of edge illumination X-ray phase-contrast imaging and its dependence upon various experimental parameters such as source size, source-to-sample and sample-to-detector distances, X-ray energy and size of the beam-shaping aperture. Different propagation regimes, as well as the beam divergence and polychromaticity encountered with laboratory sources, are also considered. We show that spatial resolution in edge illumination phase-contrast imaging presents peculiar features compared to other X-ray phase-contrast techniques. In particular, in the direction orthogonal to the s or mask lines used to shape the beam, this can be better than both the pixel dimension and the projected source size. Numerical simulations based on Fresnel diffraction integrals are presented, which confirm the analytical predictions. The obtained results allow a simple estimation of the spatial resolution for edge-illumination phase imaging in both synchrotron and laboratory setups.
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21
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Endrizzi M, Vittoria FA, Diemoz PC, Lorenzo R, Speller RD, Wagner UH, Rau C, Robinson IK, Olivo A. Phase-contrast microscopy at high x-ray energy with a laboratory setup. OPTICS LETTERS 2014; 39:3332-3335. [PMID: 24876046 DOI: 10.1364/ol.39.003332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We report on the design and realization of an x-ray imaging system for quantitative phase-contrast microscopy at high x-ray energy with laboratory-scale instrumentation. Phase and amplitude were separated quantitatively at x-ray energies up to 80 keV with micrometric spatial resolution. The accuracy of the results was tested against numerical simulations, and the spatial resolution was experimentally quantified by measuring a Siemens star phase object. This simple setup should find broad application in those areas of x-ray imaging where high energy and spatial resolution are simultaneously required and in those difficult cases where the sample contains materials with similar x-ray absorption.
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22
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Marenzana M, Hagen CK, Borges PDN, Endrizzi M, Szafraniec MB, Vincent TL, Rigon L, Arfelli F, Menk RH, Olivo A. Synchrotron- and laboratory-based X-ray phase-contrast imaging for imaging mouse articular cartilage in the absence of radiopaque contrast agents. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2014; 372:20130127. [PMID: 24470419 PMCID: PMC3900037 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2013.0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The mouse model of osteoarthritis (OA) has been recognized as the most promising research tool for the identification of new OA therapeutic targets. However, this model is currently limited by poor throughput, dependent on the extremely time-consuming histopathology assessment of the articular cartilage (AC). We have recently shown that AC in the rat tibia can be imaged both in air and in saline solution using a laboratory system based on coded-aperture X-ray phase-contrast imaging (CAXPCi). Here, we explore ways to extend the methodology for imaging the much thinner AC of the mouse, by means of gold-standard synchrotron-based phase-contrast methods. Specifically, we have used analyser-based phase-contrast micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) for its high sensitivity to faint phase changes, coupled with a high-resolution (4.5 μm pixel) detector. Healthy, diseased (four weeks post induction of OA) and artificially damaged mouse AC was imaged at the Elettra synchrotron in Trieste, Italy, using the above method. For validation, we used conventional micro-CT combined with radiopaque soft-tissue staining and standard histomorphometry. We show that mouse cartilage can be visualized correctly by means of the synchrotron method. This suggests that: (i) further developments of the laboratory-based CAXPCi system, especially in terms of pushing the resolution limits, might have the potential to resolve mouse AC ex vivo and (ii) additional improvements may lead to a new generation of CAXPCi micro-CT scanners which could be used for in vivo longitudinal pre-clinical imaging of soft tissue at resolutions impossible to achieve by current MRI technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Marenzana
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College, London SW7 2AZ, UK
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7HE, UK
| | - Charlotte K. Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Marco Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Tonia L. Vincent
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7HE, UK
| | - Luigi Rigon
- Dipartimento di Fisica dell'Università degli Studi di Trieste, Via Valerio 2, Trieste 34100, Italy
| | - Fulvia Arfelli
- Dipartimento di Fisica dell'Università degli Studi di Trieste, Via Valerio 2, Trieste 34100, Italy
| | - Ralf-Hendrik Menk
- Sincrotrone Trieste SCpA, Strada Statale, Basovizza, Trieste 34149, Italy
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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23
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Munro PRT, Endrizzi M, Diemoz PC, Hagen CK, Szafraniec MB, Millard TP, Zapata CE, Speller RD, Olivo A. Medicine, material science and security: the versatility of the coded-aperture approach. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2014; 372:20130029. [PMID: 24470413 PMCID: PMC3900034 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2013.0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The principal limitation to the widespread deployment of X-ray phase imaging in a variety of applications is probably versatility. A versatile X-ray phase imaging system must be able to work with polychromatic and non-microfocus sources (for example, those currently used in medical and industrial applications), have physical dimensions sufficiently large to accommodate samples of interest, be insensitive to environmental disturbances (such as vibrations and temperature variations), require only simple system set-up and maintenance, and be able to perform quantitative imaging. The coded-aperture technique, based upon the edge illumination principle, satisfies each of these criteria. To date, we have applied the technique to mammography, materials science, small-animal imaging, non-destructive testing and security. In this paper, we outline the theory of coded-aperture phase imaging and show an example of how the technique may be applied to imaging samples with a practically important scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. R. T. Munro
- Optical and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, School of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - M. Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - P. C. Diemoz
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - C. K. Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - M. B. Szafraniec
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - T. P. Millard
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - C. E. Zapata
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - R. D. Speller
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A. Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Scholkmann F, Revol V, Kaufmann R, Baronowski H, Kottler C. A new method for fusion, denoising and enhancement of x-ray images retrieved from Talbot–Lau grating interferometry. Phys Med Biol 2014; 59:1425-40. [DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/59/6/1425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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25
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Szafraniec MB, Millard TP, Ignatyev K, Speller RD, Olivo A. Proof-of-concept demonstration of edge-illumination x-ray phase contrast imaging combined with tomosynthesis. Phys Med Biol 2014; 59:N1-10. [DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/59/5/n1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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26
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Kerckhofs G, Sainz J, Maréchal M, Wevers M, Van de Putte T, Geris L, Schrooten J. Contrast-Enhanced Nanofocus X-Ray Computed Tomography Allows Virtual Three-Dimensional Histopathology and Morphometric Analysis of Osteoarthritis in Small Animal Models. Cartilage 2014; 5:55-65. [PMID: 26069685 PMCID: PMC4297096 DOI: 10.1177/1947603513501175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE One of the early hallmarks of osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive degeneration of the articular cartilage. Early diagnosis of OA-associated cartilage alterations would be beneficial for disease prevention and control, and for the development of disease-modifying treatments. However, early diagnosis is still hampered by a lack of quantifiable readouts in preclinical models. DESIGN In this study, we have shown the potency of contrast-enhanced nanofocus x-ray computed tomography (CE-nanoCT) to be used for virtual 3-dimensional (3D) histopathology in established mouse models for OA, and we compared with standard histopathology. RESULTS We showed the equivalence of CE-nanoCT images to histopathology for the modified Mankin scoring of the cartilage structure and quality. Additionally, a limited set of 3D cartilage characteristics measured by CE-nanoCT image analysis in a user-independent and semiautomatic manner, that is, average and maximum of the noncalcified cartilage thickness distribution and loss in glycosaminoglycans, was shown to be predictive for the cartilage quality and structure as can be evaluated by histopathological scoring through the use of an empirical model. CONCLUSIONS We have shown that CE-nanoCT is a tool that allows virtual histopathology and 3D morphological quantification of multitissue systems, such as the chondro-osseous junction. It provides faster and more quantitative data on cartilage structure and quality compared with standard histopathology while eliminating user bias. CE-nanoCT thus should allow capturing subtle differences in cartilage characteristics, carefully mapping OA progression and, ultimately, asses the beneficial changes when testing a candidate disease-modifying treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greet Kerckhofs
- Biomechanics Research Unit, Université de Liège, Liège, Belgium,Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, KU Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
| | | | - Marina Maréchal
- Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Martine Wevers
- Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, KU Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
| | | | - Liesbet Geris
- Biomechanics Research Unit, Université de Liège, Liège, Belgium,Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Schrooten
- Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, KU Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
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Munro PRT, Hagen CK, Szafraniec MB, Olivo A. A simplified approach to quantitative coded aperture X-ray phase imaging. OPTICS EXPRESS 2013; 21:11187-201. [PMID: 23669976 DOI: 10.1364/oe.21.011187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We recently demonstrated how quantitative X-ray phase contrast imaging may be performed with laboratory sources using the coded aperture technique. This technique required the knowledge of system parameters such as, for example, the source focal spot size and distances between elements of the imaging system. The method also assumes that the absorbing regions of the apertures are perfectly absorbing. In this paper we demonstrate how quantitative imaging can be performed without knowledge of individual system parameters and with partially absorbing apertures. We also show that this method is analogous to that employed in analyser based imaging which uses the rocking curve of an analyser crystal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter R T Munro
- Optical + Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, School of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia.
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