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Sallustio V, Rossi M, Mandrone M, Rossi F, Chiocchio I, Cerchiara T, Longo E, Fratini M, D'Amico L, Tromba G, Malucelli E, Protti M, Mercolini L, Di Blasio A, Aponte M, Blaiotta G, Abruzzo A, Bigucci F, Luppi B, Cappadone C. A promising eco-sustainable wound dressing based on cellulose extracted from Spartium junceum L. and impregnated with Glycyrrhiza glabra L extract: Design, production and biological properties. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 272:132883. [PMID: 38838898 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132883] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Glycyrrhiza glabra extract is widely known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the wound healing process. The aim of this work was to shorten the time of the healing process by using an eco-sustainable wound dressing based on Spanish broom flexible cellulosic fabric by impregnation with G. glabra extract-loaded ethosomes. Chemical analysis of G. glabra extract was performed by LC-DAD-MS/MS and its encapsulation into ethosomes was obtained using the ethanol injection method. Lipid vesicles were characterized in terms of size, polydispersity index, entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, and stability. In vitro release studies, biocompatibility, and scratch test on 3T3 fibroblasts were performed. Moreover, the structure of Spanish broom dressing and its ability to absorb wound exudate was characterized by Synchrotron X-ray phase contrast microtomography (SR-PCmicroCT). Ethosomes showed a good entrapment efficiency, nanometric size, good stability over time and a slow release of polyphenols compared to the free extract, and were not cytotoxic. Lastly, the results revealed that Spanish broom wound dressing loaded with G. glabra ethosomes is able to accelerate wound closure by reducing wound healing time. To sum up, Spanish broom wound dressing could be a potential new green tool for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Sallustio
- Drug Delivery Research Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - M Rossi
- Drug Delivery Research Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | - M Mandrone
- Pharmaceutical Botany Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - F Rossi
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy; CRMBM, CNRS, Aix Marseille University, 13385 Marseille, France.
| | - I Chiocchio
- Pharmaceutical Botany Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - T Cerchiara
- Drug Delivery Research Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - E Longo
- Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A 34149, Basovizza, Trieste, Italy.
| | - M Fratini
- CNR-Nanotec (Roma unit) c/o Department of Physics, La Sapienza University Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5-00185 Rome (Italy) & IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina, 306-00179 Rome, Italy.
| | - L D'Amico
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
| | - G Tromba
- Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A 34149, Basovizza, Trieste, Italy.
| | - E Malucelli
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - M Protti
- Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis (PTA Lab.), Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - L Mercolini
- Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis (PTA Lab.), Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - A Di Blasio
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", 80055 Portici, Italy.
| | - M Aponte
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", 80055 Portici, Italy.
| | - G Blaiotta
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", 80055 Portici, Italy.
| | - A Abruzzo
- Drug Delivery Research Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - F Bigucci
- Drug Delivery Research Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - B Luppi
- Drug Delivery Research Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | - C Cappadone
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry Lab., Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
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Dejea H, Pierantoni M, Orozco GA, B Wrammerfors ET, Gstöhl SJ, Schlepütz CM, Isaksson H. In Situ Loading and Time-Resolved Synchrotron-Based Phase Contrast Tomography for the Mechanical Investigation of Connective Knee Tissues: A Proof-of-Concept Study. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308811. [PMID: 38520713 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Articular cartilage and meniscus transfer and distribute mechanical loads in the knee joint. Degeneration of these connective tissues occurs during the progression of knee osteoarthritis, which affects their composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties. A deeper understanding of disease progression can be obtained by studying them simultaneously. Time-resolved synchrotron-based X-ray phase-contrast tomography (SR-PhC-µCT) allows to capture the tissue dynamics. This proof-of-concept study presents a rheometer setup for simultaneous in situ unconfined compression and SR-PhC-µCT of connective knee tissues. The microstructural response of bovine cartilage (n = 16) and meniscus (n = 4) samples under axial continuously increased strain, or two steps of 15% strain (stress-relaxation) is studied. The chondrocyte distribution in cartilage and the collagen fiber orientation in the meniscus are assessed. Variations in chondrocyte density reveal an increase in the top 40% of the sample during loading, compared to the lower half. Meniscus collagen fibers reorient perpendicular to the loading direction during compression and partially redisperse during relaxation. Radiation damage, image repeatability, and image quality assessments show little to no effects on the results. In conclusion, this approach is highly promising for future studies of human knee tissues to understand their microstructure, mechanical response, and progression in degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector Dejea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Box 118, Lund, 221 00, Sweden
- MAX IV Laboratory, Lund University, Lund, 224 84, Sweden
| | - Maria Pierantoni
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Box 118, Lund, 221 00, Sweden
| | - Gustavo A Orozco
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Box 118, Lund, 221 00, Sweden
| | | | - Stefan J Gstöhl
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen PSI, 5232, Switzerland
| | | | - Hanna Isaksson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Box 118, Lund, 221 00, Sweden
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Zekavat AR, Lioliou G, Roche I Morgó O, Maughan Jones C, Galea G, Maniou E, Doherty A, Endrizzi M, Astolfo A, Olivo A, Hagen C. Phase contrast micro-CT with adjustable in-slice spatial resolution at constant magnification. Phys Med Biol 2024; 69:105017. [PMID: 38631365 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ad4000] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Objective.To report on a micro computed tomography (micro-CT) system capable of x-ray phase contrast imaging and of increasing spatial resolution at constant magnification.Approach.The micro-CT system implements the edge illumination (EI) method, which relies on two absorbing masks with periodically spaced transmitting apertures in the beam path; these split the beam into an array of beamlets and provide sensitivity to the beamlets' directionality, i.e. refraction. In EI, spatial resolution depends on the width of the beamlets rather than on the source/detector point spread function (PSF), meaning that resolution can be increased by decreasing the mask apertures, without changing the source/detector PSF or the magnification.Main results.We have designed a dedicated mask featuring multiple bands with differently sized apertures and used this to demonstrate that resolution is a tuneable parameter in our system, by showing that increasingly small apertures deliver increasingly detailed images. Phase contrast images of a bar pattern-based resolution phantom and a biological sample (a mouse embryo) were obtained at multiple resolutions.Significance.The new micro-CT system could find application in areas where phase contrast is already known to provide superior image quality, while the added tuneable resolution functionality could enable more sophisticated analyses in these applications, e.g. by scanning samples at multiple scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Reza Zekavat
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Grammatiki Lioliou
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oriol Roche I Morgó
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Maughan Jones
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriel Galea
- University College London, GOS Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eirini Maniou
- University College London, GOS Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Doherty
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alberto Astolfo
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Hagen
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
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Xian RP, Brunet J, Huang Y, Wagner WL, Lee PD, Tafforeau P, Walsh CL. A closer look at high-energy X-ray-induced bubble formation during soft tissue imaging. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2024; 31:566-577. [PMID: 38682274 DOI: 10.1107/s160057752400290x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Improving the scalability of tissue imaging throughput with bright, coherent X-rays requires identifying and mitigating artifacts resulting from the interactions between X-rays and matter. At synchrotron sources, long-term imaging of soft tissues in solution can result in gas bubble formation or cavitation, which dramatically compromises image quality and integrity of the samples. By combining in-line phase-contrast imaging with gas chromatography in real time, we were able to track the onset and evolution of high-energy X-ray-induced gas bubbles in ethanol-embedded soft tissue samples for tens of minutes (two to three times the typical scan times). We demonstrate quantitatively that vacuum degassing of the sample during preparation can significantly delay bubble formation, offering up to a twofold improvement in dose tolerance, depending on the tissue type. However, once nucleated, bubble growth is faster in degassed than undegassed samples, indicating their distinct metastable states at bubble onset. Gas chromatography analysis shows increased solvent vaporization concurrent with bubble formation, yet the quantities of dissolved gasses remain unchanged. By coupling features extracted from the radiographs with computational analysis of bubble characteristics, we uncover dose-controlled kinetics and nucleation site-specific growth. These hallmark signatures provide quantitative constraints on the driving mechanisms of bubble formation and growth. Overall, the observations highlight bubble formation as a critical yet often overlooked hurdle in upscaling X-ray imaging for biological tissues and soft materials and we offer an empirical foundation for their understanding and imaging protocol optimization. More importantly, our approaches establish a top-down scheme to decipher the complex, multiscale radiation-matter interactions in these applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Patrick Xian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Brunet
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yuze Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Willi L Wagner
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter D Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Tafforeau
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France
| | - Claire L Walsh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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5
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Partridge T, Wolfson P, Jiang J, Massimi L, Astolfo A, Djurabekova N, Savvidis S, Jones CJM, Hagen CK, Millard E, Shorrock W, Waltham RM, Haig IG, Bate D, Ho KMA, Mc Bain H, Wilson A, Hogan A, Delaney H, Liyadipita A, Levine AP, Dawas K, Mohammadi B, Qureshi YA, Chouhan MD, Taylor SA, Mughal M, Munro PRT, Endrizzi M, Novelli M, Lovat LB, Olivo A. T staging esophageal tumors with x rays. OPTICA 2024; 11:569-576. [PMID: 39006164 PMCID: PMC11239146 DOI: 10.1364/optica.501948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
With histopathology results typically taking several days, the ability to stage tumors during interventions could provide a step change in various cancer interventions. X-ray technology has advanced significantly in recent years with the introduction of phase-based imaging methods. These have been adapted for use in standard labs rather than specialized facilities such as synchrotrons, and approaches that enable fast 3D scans with conventional x-ray sources have been developed. This opens the possibility to produce 3D images with enhanced soft tissue contrast at a level of detail comparable to histopathology, in times sufficiently short to be compatible with use during surgical interventions. In this paper we discuss the application of one such approach to human esophagi obtained from esophagectomy interventions. We demonstrate that the image quality is sufficiently high to enable tumor T staging based on the x-ray datasets alone. Alongside detection of involved margins with potentially life-saving implications, staging tumors intra-operatively has the potential to change patient pathways, facilitating optimization of therapeutic interventions during the procedure itself. Besides a prospective intra-operative use, the availability of high-quality 3D images of entire esophageal tumors can support histopathological characterization, from enabling "right slice first time" approaches to understanding the histopathology in the full 3D context of the surrounding tumor environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. Partridge
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - P. Wolfson
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - J. Jiang
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Current address: Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois 60439, USA
| | - L. Massimi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A. Astolfo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd., Tring, Herts HP23 4JX, UK
| | - N. Djurabekova
- Department of Computer Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - S. Savvidis
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - C. J. Maughan Jones
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - C. K. Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - E. Millard
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd., Tring, Herts HP23 4JX, UK
| | - W. Shorrock
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd., Tring, Herts HP23 4JX, UK
| | | | - I. G. Haig
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd., Tring, Herts HP23 4JX, UK
| | - D. Bate
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd., Tring, Herts HP23 4JX, UK
| | - K. M. A. Ho
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - H. Mc Bain
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A. Wilson
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A. Hogan
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - H. Delaney
- Department of Histopathology, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A. Liyadipita
- Department of Histopathology, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A. P. Levine
- Department of Histopathology, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - K. Dawas
- Department of Upper Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, UCLH, London NW1 2BU, UK
| | - B. Mohammadi
- Department of Upper Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, UCLH, London NW1 2BU, UK
| | - Y. A. Qureshi
- Department of Upper Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, UCLH, London NW1 2BU, UK
| | - M. D. Chouhan
- Center for Medical Imaging, Division of Medicine, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Princess Alexandra Hospital Medical Imaging Department, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- University of Queensland Medical School, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - S. A. Taylor
- Center for Medical Imaging, Division of Medicine, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - M. Mughal
- Department of Upper Gastro-Intestinal Surgery, UCLH, London NW1 2BU, UK
| | - P. R. T. Munro
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - M. Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - M. Novelli
- Research Department of Pathology, Cancer Institute, UCLH, London NW1 2BU, UK
| | - L. B. Lovat
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A. Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Shi K, Zhang X, Wang X, Xu J, Mu B, Yan J, Wang F, Ding Y, Wang Z. ICF-PR-Net: a deep phase retrieval neural network for X-ray phase contrast imaging of inertial confinement fusion capsules. OPTICS EXPRESS 2024; 32:14356-14376. [PMID: 38859383 DOI: 10.1364/oe.518249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
X-ray phase contrast imaging (XPCI) has demonstrated capability to characterize inertial confinement fusion (ICF) capsules, and phase retrieval can reconstruct phase information from intensity images. This study introduces ICF-PR-Net, a novel deep learning-based phase retrieval method for ICF-XPCI. We numerically constructed datasets based on ICF capsule shape features, and proposed an object-image loss function to add image formation physics to network training. ICF-PR-Net outperformed traditional methods as it exhibited satisfactory robustness against strong noise and nonuniform background and was well-suited for ICF-XPCI's constrained experimental conditions and single exposure limit. Numerical and experimental results showed that ICF-PR-Net accurately retrieved the phase and absorption while maintaining retrieval quality in different situations. Overall, the ICF-PR-Net enables the diagnosis of the inner interface and electron density of capsules to address ignition-preventing problems, such as hydrodynamic instability growth.
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Brombal L, Arfelli F, Brun F, Di Trapani V, Endrizzi M, Menk RH, Perion P, Rigon L, Saccomano M, Tromba G, Olivo A. Edge-illumination spectral phase-contrast tomography. Phys Med Biol 2024; 69:075027. [PMID: 38471186 PMCID: PMC10991267 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ad3328] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Following the rapid, but independent, diffusion of x-ray spectral and phase-contrast systems, this work demonstrates the first combination of spectral and phase-contrast computed tomography (CT) obtained by using the edge-illumination technique and a CdTe small-pixel (62μm) spectral detector. A theoretical model is introduced, starting from a standard attenuation-based spectral decomposition and leading to spectral phase-contrast material decomposition. Each step of the model is followed by quantification of accuracy and sensitivity on experimental data of a test phantom containing different solutions with known concentrations. An example of a micro CT application (20μm voxel size) on an iodine-perfusedex vivomurine model is reported. The work demonstrates that spectral-phase contrast combines the advantages of spectral imaging, i.e. high-Zmaterial discrimination capability, and phase-contrast imaging, i.e. soft tissue sensitivity, yielding simultaneously mass density maps of water, calcium, and iodine with an accuracy of 1.1%, 3.5%, and 1.9% (root mean square errors), respectively. Results also show a 9-fold increase in the signal-to-noise ratio of the water channel when compared to standard spectral decomposition. The application to the murine model revealed the potential of the technique in the simultaneous 3D visualization of soft tissue, bone, and vasculature. While being implemented by using a broad spectrum (pink beam) at a synchrotron radiation facility (Elettra, Trieste, Italy), the proposed experimental setup can be readily translated to compact laboratory systems including conventional x-ray tubes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Brombal
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
- INFN Division of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Fulvia Arfelli
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
- INFN Division of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesco Brun
- INFN Division of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 10, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Vittorio Di Trapani
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, GWC1E 6BT, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ralf H Menk
- INFN Division of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
- Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A, I-34149 Basovizza Trieste, Italy
- Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering, Midsweden University, Holmgatan 10, Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Paola Perion
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
- INFN Division of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Luigi Rigon
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
- INFN Division of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Mara Saccomano
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Giuliana Tromba
- Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A, I-34149 Basovizza Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, GWC1E 6BT, London, United Kingdom
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8
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De Marco F, Andrejewski J, Urban T, Willer K, Gromann L, Koehler T, Maack HI, Herzen J, Pfeiffer F. X-Ray Dark-Field Signal Reduction Due to Hardening of the Visibility Spectrum. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2024; 43:1422-1433. [PMID: 38032773 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2023.3337994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
X-ray dark-field imaging enables a spatially-resolved visualization of ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering. Using phantom measurements, we demonstrate that a material's effective dark-field signal may be reduced by modification of the visibility spectrum by other dark-field-active objects in the beam. This is the dark-field equivalent of conventional beam-hardening, and is distinct from related, known effects, where the dark-field signal is modified by attenuation or phase shifts. We present a theoretical model for this group of effects and verify it by comparison to the measurements. These findings have significant implications for the interpretation of dark-field signal strength in polychromatic measurements.
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9
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Kim S, Jang S, Lee O. Single fiber curvature for muscle impairment assessment: Phase contrast imaging of stroke-induced animals. Microsc Res Tech 2024; 87:705-715. [PMID: 37983687 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24459] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
There are technical challenges in imaging studies that can three-dimensionally (3D) analyze a single fiber (SF) to observe the functionality of the entire muscle after stroke. This study proposes a 3D assessment technique that only segments the SF of the right stroke-induced soleus muscle of a gerbil using synchrotron radiation x-ray microcomputed tomography (SR-μCT), which is capable of muscle structure analysis. Curvature damage in the SF of the left soleus muscle (impaired) progressed at 7-day intervals after the stroke in the control; particularly on the 7 days (1 week) and 14 days (2 weeks), as observed through visualization analysis. At 2 weeks, the SF volume was significantly reduced in the control impaired group (p = .033), and was significantly less than that in the non-impaired group (p = .009). We expect that animal post-stroke studies will improve the basic field of rehabilitation therapy by diagnosing the degree of SF curvature. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Muscle evaluation after ischemic stroke using synchrotron radiation x-ray microcomputed tomography (SR-μCT). Curvature is measured by segmenting a single fiber (SF) in the muscle. Structural changes in the SF of impaired gerbils at 7-day intervals were assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subok Kim
- Department of Software Convergence, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghun Jang
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health and Life Sciences, Korea National University of Transportation, Jeungpyeong-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Onseok Lee
- Department of Software Convergence, Graduate School, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medical IT Engineering, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Republic of Korea
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10
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Lioliou G, Buchanan I, Astolfo A, Endrizzi M, Bate D, Hagen CK, Olivo A. Framework to optimize fixed-length micro-CT systems for propagation-based phase-contrast imaging. OPTICS EXPRESS 2024; 32:4839-4856. [PMID: 38439226 DOI: 10.1364/oe.510317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
A laboratory X-ray imaging system with a setup that closely resembles commercial micro-CT systems with a fixed source-to-detector distance of ∼90 cm is investigated for single distance propagation-based phase-contrast imaging and computed tomography (CT). The system had a constant source-to-detector distance, and the sample positions were optimized. Initially, a PTFE wire was imaged, both in 2D and 3D, to characterize fringe contrast and spatial resolution for different X-ray source settings and source-to-sample distances. The results were compared to calculated values based on theoretical models and to simulated (wave-optics based) results, with good agreement being found. The optimization of the imaging system is discussed. CT scans of two biological samples, a tissue-engineered esophageal scaffold and a rat heart, were then acquired at the optimum parameters, demonstrating that significant image quality improvements can be obtained with widely available components placed inside fixed-length cabinets through proper optimization of propagation-based phase-contrast.
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11
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Iwasaki N, Karali A, Roldo M, Blunn G. Full-Field Strain Measurements of the Muscle-Tendon Junction Using X-ray Computed Tomography and Digital Volume Correlation. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:162. [PMID: 38391648 PMCID: PMC10886230 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11020162] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
We report, for the first time, the full-field 3D strain distribution of the muscle-tendon junction (MTJ). Understanding the strain distribution at the junction is crucial for the treatment of injuries and to predict tear formation at this location. Three-dimensional full-field strain distribution of mouse MTJ was measured using X-ray computer tomography (XCT) combined with digital volume correlation (DVC) with the aim of understanding the mechanical behavior of the junction under tensile loading. The interface between the Achilles tendon and the gastrocnemius muscle was harvested from adult mice and stained using 1% phosphotungstic acid in 70% ethanol. In situ XCT combined with DVC was used to image and compute strain distribution at the MTJ under a tensile load (2.4 N). High strain measuring 120,000 µε, 160,000 µε, and 120,000 µε for the first principal stain (εp1), shear strain (γ), and von Mises strain (εVM), respectively, was measured at the MTJ and these values reduced into the body of the muscle or into the tendon. Strain is concentrated at the MTJ, which is at risk of being damaged in activities associated with excessive physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nodoka Iwasaki
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2DT, UK
| | - Aikaterina Karali
- School of Mechanical and Design Engineering, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 3DJ, UK
| | - Marta Roldo
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2DT, UK
| | - Gordon Blunn
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2DT, UK
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12
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Agrawal AK, Gupta C, Singh B, Kashyap Y, Shukla M. Quantitative phase contrast X-ray tomography of aluminium metal matrix composite. Appl Radiat Isot 2024; 204:111149. [PMID: 38134854 DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2023.111149] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The quantitative assessment of micro-structure and load-induced damages in Al-SiC metal matrix composites (MMC) is important for its design optimization, performance evaluation and structure-property correlation. X-ray Phase contrast micro-tomography is potentially used for evaluation of its 3 dimensional micro-structure manifested in the form of voids, cracks, embedded particles, and load-induced damages. However, the contrast between Al matrix and SiC particles is insufficient for their clear morphological identification and quantitative assessment. In the present study, we have proposed and applied single image-based phase retrieval as a pre-processing step to micro-tomography reconstruction for improved assessment of micro-structure and cohesion-induced damages in Al-SiC MMC. The advantages of applying different phase retrieval techniques in the enhancement of image quality and morphological quantification of SiC particles, pores and cohesion damages are discussed. It is observed that the Paganin method offers the best improvement in contrast to noise ratio for the measurement of SiC particles embedded in the Al matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish K Agrawal
- Technical Physics Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400 094, India.
| | - Chiradeep Gupta
- Mechanical Metallurgy Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400 094, India
| | - Balwant Singh
- Technical Physics Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400 094, India
| | - Yogesh Kashyap
- Technical Physics Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400 094, India
| | - Mayank Shukla
- Technical Physics Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, 400 094, India
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13
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Gobo MSS, Balbin DR, Hönnicke MG, Poletti ME. Clinical boundary conditions for propagation-based X-ray phase contrast imaging: from bio-sample models targeting to clinical applications. JOURNAL OF X-RAY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2024; 32:1163-1175. [PMID: 38943421 DOI: 10.3233/xst-230425] [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: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Typical propagation-based X-ray phase contrast imaging (PB-PCI) experiments using polyenergetic sources are tested in very ideal conditions: low-energy spectrum (mainly characteristic X-rays), small thickness and homogeneous materials considered weakly absorbing objects, large object-to-detector distance, long exposure times and non-clinical detector. OBJECTIVE Explore PB-PCI features using boundary conditions imposed by a low power polychromatic X-ray source (X-ray spectrum without characteristic X-rays), thick and heterogenous materials and a small area imaging detector with high low-detection radiation threshold, elements commonly found in a clinical scenario. METHODS A PB-PCI setup implemented using a microfocus X-ray source and a dental imaging detector was characterized in terms of different spectra and geometric parameters on the acquired images. Test phantoms containing fibers and homogeneous materials with close attenuation characteristics and animal bone and mixed soft tissues (bio-sample models) were analyzed. Contrast to Noise Ratio (CNR), system spatial resolution and Kerma values were obtained for all images. RESULTS Phase contrast images showed CNR up to 15% higher than conventional contact images. Moreover, it is better seen when large magnifications (>3) and object-to-detector distances (>13 cm) were used. The influence of the spectrum was not appreciable due to the low efficiency of the detector (thin scintillator screen) at high energies. CONCLUSIONS Despite the clinical boundary condition used in this work, regarding the X-ray spectrum, thick samples, and detection system, it was possible to acquire phase contrast images of biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S S Gobo
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D R Balbin
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M G Hönnicke
- Instituto Latino-Americano de Ciências da Vida e da Natureza, Universidade Federal da Integração Latino-Americana, Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
| | - M E Poletti
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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14
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Furlani M, Riberti N, Gatto ML, Giuliani A. High-Resolution Phase-Contrast Tomography on Human Collagenous Tissues: A Comprehensive Review. Tomography 2023; 9:2116-2133. [PMID: 38133070 PMCID: PMC10748183 DOI: 10.3390/tomography9060166] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phase-contrast X-ray imaging is becoming increasingly considered since its first applications, which occurred almost 30 years ago. Particular emphasis was placed on studies that use this technique to investigate soft tissues, which cannot otherwise be investigated at a high resolution and in a three-dimensional manner, using conventional absorption-based settings. Indeed, its consistency and discrimination power in low absorbing samples, unified to being a not destructive analysis, are pushing interests on its utilization from researchers of different specializations, from botany, through zoology, to human physio-pathology research. In this regard, a challenging method for 3D imaging and quantitative analysis of collagenous tissues has spread in recent years: it is based on the unique characteristics of synchrotron radiation phase-contrast microTomography (PhC-microCT). In this review, the focus has been placed on the research based on the exploitation of synchrotron PhC-microCT for the investigation of collagenous tissue physio-pathologies from solely human samples. Collagen tissues' elasto-mechanic role bonds it to the morphology of the site it is extracted from, which could weaken the results coming from animal experimentations. Encouraging outcomes proved this technique to be suitable to access and quantify human collagenous tissues and persuaded different researchers to approach it. A brief mention was also dedicated to the results obtained on collagenous tissues using new and promising high-resolution phase-contrast tomographic laboratory-based setups, which will certainly represent the real step forward in the diffusion of this relatively young imaging technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Furlani
- Department DISCO, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche 12, 60131 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Nicole Riberti
- Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences Department, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Maria Laura Gatto
- Department DIISM, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche 12, 60131 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Giuliani
- Department DISCO, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche 12, 60131 Ancona, Italy;
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15
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Ge X, Yang P, Wu Z, Luo C, Jin P, Wang Z, Wang S, Huang Y, Niu T. Virtual differential phase-contrast and dark-field imaging of x-ray absorption images via deep learning. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10494. [PMID: 38023711 PMCID: PMC10658538 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Weak absorption contrast in biological tissues has hindered x-ray computed tomography from accessing biological structures. Recently, grating-based imaging has emerged as a promising solution to biological low-contrast imaging, providing complementary and previously unavailable structural information of the specimen. Although it has been successfully applied to work with conventional x-ray sources, grating-based imaging is time-consuming and requires a sophisticated experimental setup. In this work, we demonstrate that a deep convolutional neural network trained with a generative adversarial network can directly convert x-ray absorption images into differential phase-contrast and dark-field images that are comparable to those obtained at both a synchrotron beamline and a laboratory facility. By smearing back all of the virtual projections, high-quality tomographic images of biological test specimens deliver the differential phase-contrast- and dark-field-like contrast and quantitative information, broadening the horizon of x-ray image contrast generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ge
- School of Science, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Pengfei Yang
- College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Zhao Wu
- National Synchrotron Radiation LaboratoryUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Chen Luo
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Peng Jin
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Zhili Wang
- Department of Optical EngineeringSchool of Physics, Hefei University of TechnologyHefeiAnhuiChina
| | - Shengxiang Wang
- Spallation Neutron Source Science CenterDongguanGuangdongChina
- Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yongsheng Huang
- School of Science, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Tianye Niu
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Aerospace Center HospitalBeijingChina
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16
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Tao S, Tian Z, Bai L, Wang W, Xu Y, Kuang C, Liu X. Tri-directional x-ray phase contrast multimodal imaging using one hexagonal mesh modulator. Phys Med Biol 2023; 68:195017. [PMID: 37652041 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/acf5c3] [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: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Objective. X-ray phase contrast imaging is a promising technique for future clinical diagnostic as it can provide enhanced contrast in soft tissues compared to traditional x-ray attenuation-contrast imaging. However, the strict requirements on the x-ray coherence and the precise alignment of optical elements limit its applications towards clinical use. To solve this problem, mesh-based x-ray phase contrast imaging method with one hexagonal mesh is proposed for easy alignment and better image visualization.Approach. The mesh produces structured illuminations and the detector captures its distortions to reconstruct the absorption, differential phase contrast (DPC) and dark-field (DF) images of the sample. In this work, we fabricated a hexagonal mesh to simultaneously retrieve DPC and DF signals in three different directions with single shot. A phase retrieval algorithm to obtain artifacts-free phase from DPC images with three different directions is put forward and false color dark-field image is also reconstructed with tri-directional images. Mesh-shifting method based on this hexagonal mesh modulator is also proposed to reconstruct images with better image quality at the expense of increased dose.Main results. In numerical simulations, the proposed hexagonal mesh outperforms the traditional square mesh in image evaluation metrics performance and false color visualization with the same radiation dose. The experimental results demonstrate its feasiblity in real imaging systems and its advantages in quantitive imaging and better visualization. The proposed hexagonal mesh is easy to fabricate and can be successfully applied to x-ray source with it spot size up to 300μm.Significance. This work opens new possibilities for quantitative x-ray non-destructive imaging and may also be instructive for research fields such as x-ray structured illumination microscopy (SIM), x-ray spectral imaging and x-ray phase contrast and dark-field computed tomography (CT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwei Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, People's Republic of China
| | - Zonghan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueshu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 315100, People's Republic of China
| | - Cuifang Kuang
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 315100, People's Republic of China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Extreme Optics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, College of Optical Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Extreme Photonics and Instrumentation, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 315100, People's Republic of China
- Ningbo Research Institute, Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315100, People's Republic of China
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17
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Szuniewicz J, Kurdziałek S, Kundu S, Zwolinski W, Chrapkiewicz R, Lahiri M, Lapkiewicz R. Noise-resistant phase imaging with intensity correlation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh5396. [PMID: 37738351 PMCID: PMC10516487 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh5396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Interferometric methods form the basis of highly sensitive measurement techniques from astronomy to bioimaging. Interferometry typically requires high stability between the measured and reference beams. The presence of rapid phase fluctuations washes out interference fringes, making phase profile recovery impossible. This challenge can be addressed by shortening the measurement time. However, such an approach reduces photon-counting rates, precluding applications in low-intensity imaging. We introduce a phase imaging technique which is immune to time-dependent phase fluctuations. Our technique, relying on intensity correlation instead of direct intensity measurements, allows one to obtain high interference visibility for arbitrarily long acquisition times. We prove the optimality of our method using the Cramér-Rao bound in the extreme case when no more than two photons are detected within the time window of phase stability. Our technique will broaden prospects in phase measurements, including emerging applications such as in infrared and x-ray imaging and quantum and matter-wave interferometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerzy Szuniewicz
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Stanisław Kurdziałek
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Sanjukta Kundu
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Wojciech Zwolinski
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warszawa, Poland
| | | | - Mayukh Lahiri
- Department of Physics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Radek Lapkiewicz
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, ul. Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warszawa, Poland
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18
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Lang JT, Kulkarni D, Foster CW, Huang Y, Sepe MA, Shimpalee S, Parkinson DY, Zenyuk IV. X-ray Tomography Applied to Electrochemical Devices and Electrocatalysis. Chem Rev 2023; 123:9880-9914. [PMID: 37579025 PMCID: PMC10450694 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a nondestructive three-dimensional (3D) imaging technique used for studying morphological properties of porous and nonporous materials. In the field of electrocatalysis, X-ray CT is mainly used to quantify the morphology of electrodes and extract information such as porosity, tortuosity, pore-size distribution, and other relevant properties. For electrochemical systems such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, and redox flow batteries, X-ray CT gives the ability to study evolution of critical features of interest in ex situ, in situ, and operando environments. These include catalyst degradation, interface evolution under real conditions, formation of new phases (water and oxygen), and dynamics of transport processes. These studies enable more efficient device and electrode designs that will ultimately contribute to widespread decarbonization efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack T. Lang
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
- National
Fuel Cell Research Center, University of
California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
| | - Devashish Kulkarni
- National
Fuel Cell Research Center, University of
California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
| | - Collin W. Foster
- Department
of Aerospace Engineering, University of
Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61820, United States
| | - Ying Huang
- National
Fuel Cell Research Center, University of
California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
| | - Mitchell A. Sepe
- Hydrogen
and Fuel Cell Center, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - Sirivatch Shimpalee
- Hydrogen
and Fuel Cell Center, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - Dilworth Y. Parkinson
- Advanced
Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National
Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Iryna V. Zenyuk
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
- National
Fuel Cell Research Center, University of
California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Irvine, California 92617, United States
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19
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Navarrete-León C, Doherty A, Savvidis S, Gerli MFM, Piredda G, Astolfo A, Bate D, Cipiccia S, Hagen CK, Olivo A, Endrizzi M. X-ray phase-contrast microtomography of soft tissues using a compact laboratory system with two-directional sensitivity. OPTICA 2023; 10:880-887. [PMID: 37841216 PMCID: PMC10575607 DOI: 10.1364/optica.487270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
X-ray microtomography is a nondestructive, three-dimensional inspection technique applied across a vast range of fields and disciplines, ranging from research to industrial, encompassing engineering, biology, and medical research. Phase-contrast imaging extends the domain of application of x-ray microtomography to classes of samples that exhibit weak attenuation, thus appearing with poor contrast in standard x-ray imaging. Notable examples are low-atomic-number materials, like carbon-fiber composites, soft matter, and biological soft tissues. We report on a compact and cost-effective system for x-ray phase-contrast microtomography. The system features high sensitivity to phase gradients and high resolution, requires a low-power sealed x-ray tube, a single optical element, and fits in a small footprint. It is compatible with standard x-ray detector technologies: in our experiments, we have observed that single-photon counting offered higher angular sensitivity, whereas flat panels provided a larger field of view. The system is benchmarked against known-material phantoms, and its potential for soft-tissue three-dimensional imaging is demonstrated on small-animal organs: a piglet esophagus and a rat heart. We believe that the simplicity of the setup we are proposing, combined with its robustness and sensitivity, will facilitate accessing quantitative x-ray phase-contrast microtomography as a research tool across disciplines, including tissue engineering, materials science, and nondestructive testing in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Navarrete-León
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Adam Doherty
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Savvas Savvidis
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Mattia F. M. Gerli
- UCL Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Royal Free Hospital, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Section, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Giovanni Piredda
- Research Center for Microtechnology, Vorarlberg University of Applied Sciences, Hochschulstr. 1, 6850, Dornbirn, Austria
| | - Alberto Astolfo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - David Bate
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd, Tring, Herts, HP23 4JX, UK
| | - Silvia Cipiccia
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Charlotte K. Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- 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
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20
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Polikarpov M, Vila-Comamala J, Wang Z, Pereira A, van Gogh S, Gasser C, Jefimovs K, Romano L, Varga Z, Lång K, Schmeltz M, Tessarini S, Rawlik M, Jermann E, Lewis S, Yun W, Stampanoni M. Towards virtual histology with X-ray grating interferometry. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9049. [PMID: 37270642 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35854-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide. Diagnosing breast cancer relies on clinical examination, imaging and biopsy. A core-needle biopsy enables a morphological and biochemical characterization of the cancer and is considered the gold standard for breast cancer diagnosis. A histopathological examination uses high-resolution microscopes with outstanding contrast in the 2D plane, but the spatial resolution in the third, Z-direction, is reduced. In the present paper, we propose two high-resolution table-top systems for phase-contrast X-ray tomography of soft-tissue samples. The first system implements a classical Talbot-Lau interferometer and allows to perform ex-vivo imaging of human breast samples with a voxel size of 5.57 μm. The second system with a comparable voxel size relies on a Sigray MAAST X-ray source with structured anode. For the first time, we demonstrate the applicability of the latter to perform X-ray imaging of human breast specimens with ductal carcinoma in-situ. We assessed image quality of both setups and compared it to histology. We showed that both setups made it possible to target internal features of breast specimens with better resolution and contrast than previously achieved, demonstrating that grating-based phase-contrast X-ray CT could be a complementary tool for clinical histopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Polikarpov
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland.
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - J Vila-Comamala
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
| | - Z Wang
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Engineering Physics, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing, 100080, China
| | - A Pereira
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S van Gogh
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - C Gasser
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - K Jefimovs
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
| | - L Romano
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Z Varga
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zürich, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - K Lång
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Translational Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Unilabs Mammography Unit, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - M Schmeltz
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
| | - S Tessarini
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M Rawlik
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - S Lewis
- Sigray Inc., Concord, CA, 94520, USA
| | - W Yun
- Sigray Inc., Concord, CA, 94520, USA
| | - M Stampanoni
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232, Villigen-PSI, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
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21
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Lioliou G, Navarrete-León C, Astolfo A, Savvidis S, Bate D, Endrizzi M, Hagen CK, Olivo A. A laboratory-based beam tracking x-ray imaging method achieving two-dimensional phase sensitivity and isotropic resolution with unidirectional undersampling. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8707. [PMID: 37248325 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35901-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Beam tracking X-ray Phase Contrast Imaging is a "Shack-Hartmann" type approach which uses a pre-sample mask to split the x-rays into "beamlets" which are interrogated by a detector with sufficient resolution. The ultimate spatial resolution is determined by the size of the mask apertures, however achieving this resolution level requires "stepping" the sample or the mask in increments equal to the aperture size ("dithering"). If an array of circular apertures is used (which also provides two-dimensional phase sensitivity) instead of long parallel slits, this stepping needs to be carried out in two directions, which lengthens scan times significantly. We present a mask design obtained by offsetting rows of circular apertures, allowing for two-dimensional sensitivity and isotropic resolution while requiring sample or mask stepping in one direction only. We present images of custom-built phantoms and biological specimens, demonstrating that quantitative phase retrieval and near aperture-limited spatial resolutions are obtained in two orthogonal directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lioliou
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - C Navarrete-León
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A Astolfo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - S Savvidis
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - D Bate
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Nikon X-Tek Systems Ltd, Tring, HP23 4JX, Herts, UK
| | - M Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - C K Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
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22
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Yang X, Shi L, Li A, Gao F, Sun W, Li Z. Phase-contrast imaging with synchrotron hard X-ray reveals the effect of icariin on bone tissue morphology and microstructure in rabbits with early glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1155532. [PMID: 37215078 PMCID: PMC10192577 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1155532] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Phase-contrast imaging (PCI) with synchrotron hard X-ray was used to observe the changes in bone tissue morphology and microstructure in rabbit models of early glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), and to evaluate the intervention effect of Icariin. Methods: Fifty mature New Zealand rabbits (weighing 2.5-3.0 kg) were randomly divided into a control group (n = 10), a glucocorticoid group (n = 20), and an Icariin group (n = 20). The glucocorticoid group and the Icariin group were sequentially injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and methylprednisolone (MPS) to establish a glucocorticoid-induced ONFH animal model. The Icariin group was given Icariin solution when methylprednisolone was injected for the first time, and the control group and glucocorticoid group were given the same amount of normal saline. Animals were sacrificed after 6 weeks, and bilateral femoral head specimens were taken for research. The right femoral head was observed by PCI with synchrotron hard X-ray technology, and the left femoral head was verified by Micro-CT scanning and HE staining. Results: Forty-three animals (nine in the control group, sixteen in the glucocorticoid group, and eighteen in the Icariin group) were included in the study. PCI with synchrotron hard X-ray revealed that the trabecular bone in the glucocorticoid group was thinned, broken, and structurally damaged, whereas the trabecular bone in the Icariin group had normal volume, thickness, and a relatively intact structure. Micro-CT scan reconstruction and HE staining were used to verify the reliability of this technique in identifying osteonecrosis. Conclusion: The effects of Icariin were observed in an early glucocorticoid-induced ONFH rabbit model using PCI with synchrotron hard X-ray. Icariin weakens the destructive effect of glucocorticoids on bone tissue structure, improves bone tissue morphology, and stabilizes bone microstructure. This technique may provide a definitive, non-invasive alternative to histological examination for the diagnosis of early ONFH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking University China-Japan Friendship Clinical Hospital, Beijing, China
- Health Science Centre, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Shi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Aifeng Li
- Department of Nephrology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fuqiang Gao
- Centre for Osteonecrosis and Joint-Preserving & Reconstruction, Orthopaedic Department, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Centre for Osteonecrosis and Joint-Preserving & Reconstruction, Orthopaedic Department, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Zirong Li
- Centre for Osteonecrosis and Joint-Preserving & Reconstruction, Orthopaedic Department, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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23
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Ren K, Gu Y, Luo M, Chen H, Wang Z. Deep-learning-based denoising of X-ray differential phase and dark-field images. Eur J Radiol 2023; 163:110835. [PMID: 37098281 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2023.110835] [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: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Statistical photon noise has always been a common problem in X-ray multi-contrast imaging and significantly influenced the quality of retrieved differential phase and dark-field images. We intend to develop a deep learning-based denoising algorithm to reduce the noise of retrieved X-ray differential phase and dark-field images. METHODS A novel deep learning based image noise suppression algorithm (named DnCNN-P) is presented. We proposed two different denoising modes: Retrieval-Denoising mode (R-D mode) and Denoising-Retrieval mode (D-R mode). While the R-D mode denoises the retrieved images, the D-R mode denoises the raw phase stepping data. The two denoising modes are evaluated under different photon counts and visibilities. RESULTS Experimental results show that with the algorithm DnCNN-P used, the D-R mode always exhibits a better noise reduction under diverse experimental conditions, even in the case of a low photon count and/or a low visibility. With a detected photon count of 1800 and a visibility of 0.3, compared to the differential phase images without denoising, the standard deviation is reduced by 89.1% and 16.4% in the D-R and R-D modes. Compared to the dark-field images without denoising, the standard deviation is reduced by 83.7% and 12.6% in the D-R and R-D modes, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The novel supervised DnCNN-P algorithm can significantly reduce the noise in retrieved X-ray differential phase and dark-field images. We believe this novel algorithm can be a promising approach to improve the quality of X-ray differential phase and dark-field images, and therefore dose efficiency in future biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Ren
- School of Microelectronics, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Yao Gu
- School of Physics, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Mengsi Luo
- School of Physics, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Heng Chen
- School of Physics, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Zhili Wang
- School of Physics, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China.
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24
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Deshpande R, Avachat A, Brooks FJ, Anastasio MA. Investigating the robustness of a deep learning-based method for quantitative phase retrieval from propagation-based x-ray phase contrast measurements under laboratory conditions. Phys Med Biol 2023; 68:10.1088/1361-6560/acc2aa. [PMID: 36889005 PMCID: PMC10405978 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/acc2aa] [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: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Objective.Quantitative phase retrieval (QPR) in propagation-based x-ray phase contrast imaging of heterogeneous and structurally complicated objects is challenging under laboratory conditions due to partial spatial coherence and polychromaticity. A deep learning-based method (DLBM) provides a nonlinear approach to this problem while not being constrained by restrictive assumptions about object properties and beam coherence. The objective of this work is to assess a DLBM for its applicability under practical scenarios by evaluating its robustness and generalizability under typical experimental variations.Approach.Towards this end, an end-to-end DLBM was employed for QPR under laboratory conditions and its robustness was investigated across various system and object conditions. The robustness of the method was tested via varying propagation distances and its generalizability with respect to object structure and experimental data was also tested.Main results.Although the end-to-end DLBM was stable under the studied variations, its successful deployment was found to be affected by choices pertaining to data pre-processing, network training considerations and system modeling.Significance.To our knowledge, we demonstrated for the first time, the potential applicability of an end-to-end learning-based QPR method, trained on simulated data, to experimental propagation-based x-ray phase contrast measurements acquired under laboratory conditions with a commercial x-ray source and a conventional detector. We considered conditions of polychromaticity, partial spatial coherence, and high noise levels, typical to laboratory conditions. This work further explored the robustness of this method to practical variations in propagation distances and object structure with the goal of assessing its potential for experimental use. Such an exploration of any DLBM (irrespective of its network architecture) before practical deployment provides an understanding of its potential behavior under experimental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rucha Deshpande
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Ashish Avachat
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Frank J Brooks
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Mark A Anastasio
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States of America
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25
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Brombal L, Arfelli F, Menk RH, Rigon L, Brun F. PEPI Lab: a flexible compact multi-modal setup for X-ray phase-contrast and spectral imaging. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4206. [PMID: 36918574 PMCID: PMC10014955 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30316-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper presents a new flexible compact multi-modal imaging setup referred to as PEPI (Photon-counting Edge-illumination Phase-contrast imaging) Lab, which is based on the edge-illumination (EI) technique and a chromatic detector. The system enables both X-ray phase-contrast (XPCI) and spectral (XSI) imaging of samples on the centimeter scale. This work conceptually follows all the stages in its realization, from the design to the first imaging results. The setup can be operated in four different modes, i.e. photon-counting/conventional, spectral, double-mask EI, and single-mask EI, whereby the switch to any modality is fast, software controlled, and does not require any hardware modification or lengthy re-alignment procedures. The system specifications, ranging from the X-ray tube features to the mask material and aspect ratio, have been quantitatively studied and optimized through a dedicated Geant4 simulation platform, guiding the choice of the instrumentation. The realization of the imaging setup, both in terms of hardware and control software, is detailed and discussed with a focus on practical/experimental aspects. Flexibility and compactness (66 cm source-to-detector distance in EI) are ensured by dedicated motion stages, whereas spectral capabilities are enabled by the Pixirad-1/Pixie-III detector in combination with a tungsten anode X-ray source operating in the range 40-100 kVp. The stability of the system, when operated in EI, has been verified, and drifts leading to mask misalignment of less than 1 [Formula: see text]m have been measured over a period of 54 h. The first imaging results, one for each modality, demonstrate that the system fulfills its design requirements. Specifically, XSI tomographic images of an iodine-based phantom demonstrate the system's quantitativeness and sensibility to concentrations in the order of a few mg/ml. Planar XPCI images of a carpenter bee specimen, both in single and double-mask modes, demonstrate that refraction sensitivity (below 0.6 [Formula: see text]rad in double-mask mode) is comparable with other XPCI systems based on microfocus sources. Phase CT capabilities have also been tested on a dedicated plastic phantom, where the phase channel yielded a 15-fold higher signal-to-noise ratio with respect to attenuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Brombal
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
- Division of Trieste, National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Fulvia Arfelli
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
- Division of Trieste, National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Ralf Hendrik Menk
- Division of Trieste, National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), 34127, Trieste, Italy.
- Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., 34149, Basovizza, TS, Italy.
| | - Luigi Rigon
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
- Division of Trieste, National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesco Brun
- Division of Trieste, National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), 34127, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
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26
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Pil-Ali A, Adnani S, Karim KS. Self-aligned multi-layer X-ray absorption grating using large-area fabrication methods for X-ray phase-contrast imaging. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2508. [PMID: 36781907 PMCID: PMC9925796 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29580-2] [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: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
X-ray phase-contrast (XPCi) imaging methods are an emerging medical imaging approach that provide significantly better soft tissue contrast and could function as a viable extension to conventional X-ray, CT, and even some MRI. Absorption gratings play a central role in grating-based XPCi systems, especially because they enable the acquisition of three images in a single exposure: transmission, refraction, and dark-field. An impediment to commercial development and adoption of XPCi imaging systems is the lack of large area, high aspect ratio absorption gratings. Grating technology development, primarily due to technological limitations, has lagged system development and today prevents the scaling up of XPCi system into a footprint and price point acceptable to the medical market. In this work, we report on a self-aligned multi-layer grating fabrication process that can enable large-area X-ray absorption gratings with micron-scale feature sizes. We leverage large-area fabrication techniques commonly employed by the thin-film transistor (TFT) display industry. Conventional ITO-on-glass substrates are used with a patterned film of Cr/Au/Cr that serves as a self-aligned lithography mask for backside exposure. Commonly available SU-8 photoresist is patterned using the backside exposure mask followed by an electroplating step to fill the gaps in the SU-8 with X-ray attenuating material. Consequently, the electroplated patterned material acts as a self-aligned photomask for subsequent SU-8 layer patterning and so forth. The repeatability of the reported process makes it suitable for achieving higher aspect ratio structures and is advantageous over previously reported X-ray LIGA approaches. A prototype three-layer grating, with a thickness of around [Formula: see text], having a visibility of 0.28 at [Formula: see text] with a [Formula: see text] active area was fabricated on a 4-inch glass substrate and demonstrated by modifying a commercially available 3D propagation-based XPCi Microscope. The scalable and cost-effective approach to build larger area X-ray gratings reported in this work can help expedite the commercial development and adoption of previously reported Talbot-Lau, speckle-tracking, as well as coded-aperture XPCi systems for large-area clinical and industrial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdollah Pil-Ali
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON, N2L3G1, Canada. .,Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON, N2L3G1, Canada.
| | - Sahar Adnani
- grid.46078.3d0000 0000 8644 1405Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L3G1 Canada ,grid.46078.3d0000 0000 8644 1405Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L3G1 Canada
| | - Karim S. Karim
- grid.46078.3d0000 0000 8644 1405Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L3G1 Canada ,grid.46078.3d0000 0000 8644 1405Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L3G1 Canada
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27
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Ahookhosh K, Vanoirbeek J, Vande Velde G. Lung function measurements in preclinical research: What has been done and where is it headed? Front Physiol 2023; 14:1130096. [PMID: 37035677 PMCID: PMC10073442 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1130096] [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: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the close interaction of lung morphology and functions, repeatable measurements of pulmonary function during longitudinal studies on lung pathophysiology and treatment efficacy have been a great area of interest for lung researchers. Spirometry, as a simple and quick procedure that depends on the maximal inspiration of the patient, is the most common lung function test in clinics that measures lung volumes against time. Similarly, in the preclinical area, plethysmography techniques offer lung functional parameters related to lung volumes. In the past few decades, many innovative techniques have been introduced for in vivo lung function measurements, while each one of these techniques has their own advantages and disadvantages. Before each experiment, depending on the sensitivity of the required pulmonary functional parameters, it should be decided whether an invasive or non-invasive approach is desired. On one hand, invasive techniques offer sensitive and specific readouts related to lung mechanics in anesthetized and tracheotomized animals at endpoints. On the other hand, non-invasive techniques allow repeatable lung function measurements in conscious, free-breathing animals with readouts related to the lung volumes. The biggest disadvantage of these standard techniques for lung function measurements is considering the lung as a single unit and providing only global readouts. However, recent advances in lung imaging modalities such as x-ray computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging opened new doors toward obtaining both anatomical and functional information from the same scan session, without the requirement for any extra pulmonary functional measurements, in more regional and non-invasive manners. Consequently, a new field of study called pulmonary functional imaging was born which focuses on introducing new techniques for regional quantification of lung function non-invasively using imaging-based techniques. This narrative review provides first an overview of both invasive and non-invasive conventional methods for lung function measurements, mostly focused on small animals for preclinical research, including discussions about their advantages and disadvantages. Then, we focus on those newly developed, non-invasive, imaging-based techniques that can provide either global or regional lung functional readouts at multiple time-points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Ahookhosh
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Vanoirbeek
- Centre of Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Greetje Vande Velde,
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28
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Hayashi D, Roemer FW, Link T, Li X, Kogan F, Segal NA, Omoumi P, Guermazi A. Latest advancements in imaging techniques in OA. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2022; 14:1759720X221146621. [PMID: 36601087 PMCID: PMC9806406 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x221146621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The osteoarthritis (OA) research community has been advocating a shift from radiography-based screening criteria and outcome measures in OA clinical trials to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based definition of eligibility and endpoint. For conventional morphological MRI, various semiquantitative evaluation tools are available. We have lately witnessed a remarkable technological advance in MRI techniques, including compositional/physiologic imaging and automated quantitative analyses of articular and periarticular structures. More recently, additional technologies were introduced, including positron emission tomography (PET)-MRI, weight-bearing computed tomography (CT), photon-counting spectral CT, shear wave elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, multiscale X-ray phase contrast imaging, and spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging of cartilage. On top of these, we now live in an era in which artificial intelligence is increasingly utilized in medicine. Osteoarthritis imaging is no exception. Successful implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) will hopefully improve the workflow of radiologists, as well as the level of precision and reproducibility in the interpretation of images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daichi Hayashi
- Department of Radiology, Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Radiology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frank W. Roemer
- Department of Radiology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas Link
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Francisco, San Franciso, CA, USA
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Department of Radiology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Feliks Kogan
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Neil A. Segal
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Kansas, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Patrick Omoumi
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ali Guermazi
- Department of Radiology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02132, USA
- Department of Radiology, VA Boston Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA
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29
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Lioliou G, Roche i Morgó O, Marathe S, Wanelik K, Cipiccia S, Olivo A, Hagen CK. Cycloidal-spiral sampling for three-modal x-ray CT flyscans with two-dimensional phase sensitivity. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21336. [PMID: 36494470 PMCID: PMC9734192 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25999-1] [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: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a flyscan compatible acquisition scheme for three-modal X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) with two-dimensional phase sensitivity. Our approach is demonstrated using a "beam tracking" setup, through which a sample's attenuation, phase (refraction) and scattering properties can be measured from a single frame, providing three complementary contrast channels. Up to now, such setups required the sample to be stepped at each rotation angle to sample signals at an adequate rate, to prevent resolution losses, anisotropic resolution, and under-sampling artefacts. However, the need for stepping necessitated a step-and-shoot implementation, which is affected by motors' overheads and increases the total scan time. By contrast, our proposed scheme, by which continuous horizontal and vertical translations of the sample are integrated with its rotation (leading to a "cycloidal-spiral" trajectory), is fully compatible with continuous scanning (flyscans). This leads to greatly reduced scan times while largely preserving image quality and isotropic resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Lioliou
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
| | - O. Roche i Morgó
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
| | - S. Marathe
- grid.18785.330000 0004 1764 0696Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Fermi Avenue, Didcot, OX11 0DE UK
| | - K. Wanelik
- grid.18785.330000 0004 1764 0696Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Fermi Avenue, Didcot, OX11 0DE UK
| | - S. Cipiccia
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
| | - A. Olivo
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
| | - C. K. Hagen
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
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30
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Safca N, Stutman D, Anghel E, Negoita F, Ur CA. Experimental demonstration of ultrahigh sensitivity Talbot-Lau interferometer for low dose mammography. Phys Med Biol 2022; 67. [PMID: 36541499 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/aca514] [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: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective. Even though the techniques used for breast cancer identification have advanced over the years, current mammography based on x-rays absorption, the 'gold standard' screening test at present, still has some shortcomings as concerns sensitivity and specificity to early-stage cancers, due to poor differentiation between tumor and normal tissues, especially in the case of the dense breasts. We investigate a possible additional technique for breast cancer detection with higher sensitivity and low dose, x-ray phase-contrast or refraction-based imaging with ultrahigh angular sensitivity grating interferometers, having several meters length.Approach.Towards this goal, we built and tested on a mammography phantom, a table-top laboratory setup based on a 5.7 m long Talbot-Lau interferometer with angular sensitivity better than 1μrad. We used a high-power x-ray tungsten anode tube with a 400μm focal spot, operated at 40 kVp and 15 mA with a 2 mm aluminum filter.Main results.The results reported in our paper confirm the ultrahigh sensitivity and dose economy possible with our setup. The visibility of objects simulating cancerous formations is strongly increased in the refraction images over the attenuation ones, even at a low dose of 0.32 mGy. Notably, the smallest fiber of 400μm diameter and calcifications specs of 160μm in diameter are detected, even though the spatial resolution at the object of our magnification M ∼ 2 setup with a 400μm source spot is only ∼250μm.Significance.Our experiments on a mammography phantom illustrate the capabilities of the proposed technique and can open the way toward low-dose interferometric mammography.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Safca
- Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Bucharest-Magurele, Romania.,Engineering and Applications of Lasers and Accelerators Doctoral School (SDIALA), University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - D Stutman
- Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Bucharest-Magurele, Romania.,Department of Physics and Astronomy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - E Anghel
- Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Bucharest-Magurele, Romania.,Department of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, Romania
| | - F Negoita
- Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Bucharest-Magurele, Romania
| | - C A Ur
- Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Bucharest-Magurele, Romania.,Engineering and Applications of Lasers and Accelerators Doctoral School (SDIALA), University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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31
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Chen Z, Wang X, Wu H, Fan Y, Yan Z, Lu C, Ouyang H, Zhang S, Zhang M. X-box binding protein 1 as a key modulator in “healing endothelial cells”, a novel EC phenotype promoting angiogenesis after MCAO. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2022; 27:97. [PMID: 36348288 PMCID: PMC9644469 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-022-00399-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endothelial cells (ECs) play an important role in angiogenesis and vascular reconstruction in the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke. Previous investigations have provided a profound cerebral vascular atlas under physiological conditions, but have failed to identify new disease-related cell subtypes. We aimed to identify new EC subtypes and determine the key modulator genes. Methods Two datasets GSE174574 and GSE137482 were included in the study. Seurat was utilized as the standard quality-control pipeline. UCell was used to calculate single-cell scores to validate cellular identity. Monocle3 and CytoTRACE were utilized in aid of pseudo-time differentiation analysis. CellChat was utilized to infer the intercellular communication pathways. The angiogenesis ability of ECs was validated by MTS, Transwell, tube formation, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence assays in vitro and in vivo. A synchrotron radiation-based propagation contrast imaging was introduced to comprehensively portray cerebral vasculature. Results We successfully identified a novel subtype of EC named “healing EC” that highly expressed pan-EC marker and pro-angiogenic genes but lowly expressed all the arteriovenous markers identified in the vascular single-cell atlas. Further analyses showed its high stemness to differentiate into other EC subtypes and potential to modulate inflammation and angiogenesis via excretion of signal molecules. We therefore identified X-box binding protein 1 (Xbp1) as a key modulator in the healing EC phenotype. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed its pro-angiogenic roles under both physiological and pathological conditions. Synchrotron radiation-based propagation contrast imaging further proved that Xbp1 could promote angiogenesis and recover normal vasculature conformation, especially in the corpus striatum and prefrontal cortex under middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) condition. Conclusions Our study identified a novel disease-related EC subtype that showed high stemness to differentiate into other EC subtypes. The predicted molecule Xbp1 was thus confirmed as a key modulator that can promote angiogenesis and recover normal vasculature conformation. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s11658-022-00399-5.
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Roche i Morgó O, Aleksejev J, Astolfo A, Savvidis S, Gerli MFM, Cipiccia S, Olivo A, Hagen CK. Utility of knife-edge position tracking in cycloidal computed tomography. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:43209-43222. [PMID: 36523024 PMCID: PMC9765405 DOI: 10.1364/oe.470798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cycloidal computed tomography provides high-resolution images within relatively short scan times by combining beam modulation with dedicated under-sampling. However, implementing the technique relies on accurate knowledge of the sample's motion, particularly in the case of continuous scans, which is often unavailable due to hardware or software limitations. We have developed an easy-to-implement position tracking technique using a sharp edge, which can provide reliable information about the trajectory of the sample and thus improve the reconstruction process. Furthermore, this approach also enables the development of other innovative sampling schemes, which may otherwise be difficult to implement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Roche i Morgó
- Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Jure Aleksejev
- Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alberto Astolfo
- Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Savvas Savvidis
- Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Mattia FM Gerli
- UCL Divison of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2P, UK
| | - Silvia Cipiccia
- Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Charlotte K. Hagen
- Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, WC1E 6BT, UK
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Huhn S, Lohse LM, Lucht J, Salditt T. Fast algorithms for nonlinear and constrained phase retrieval in near-field X-ray holography based on Tikhonov regularization. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:32871-32886. [PMID: 36242340 DOI: 10.1364/oe.462368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Based on phase retrieval, lensless coherent imaging and in particular holography offers quantitative phase and amplitude images. This is of particular importance for spectral ranges where suitable lenses are challenging, such as for hard x-rays. Here, we propose a phase retrieval approach for inline x-ray holography based on Tikhonov regularization applied to the full nonlinear forward model of image formation. The approach can be seen as a nonlinear generalization of the well-established contrast transfer function (CTF) reconstruction method. While similar methods have been proposed before, the current work achieves nonlinear, constrained phase retrieval at competitive computation times. We thus enable high-throughput imaging of optically strong objects beyond the scope of CTF. Using different examples of inline holograms obtained from illumination by a x-ray waveguide-source, we demonstrate superior image quality even for samples which do not obey the assumption of a weakly varying phase. Since the presented approach does not rely on linearization, we expect it to be well suited also for other probes such as visible light or electrons, which often exhibit strong phase interaction.
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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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Barbone GE, Bravin A, Mittone A, Pacureanu A, Mascio G, Di Pietro P, Kraiger MJ, Eckermann M, Romano M, Hrabě de Angelis M, Cloetens P, Bruno V, Battaglia G, Coan P. X-ray multiscale 3D neuroimaging to quantify cellular aging and neurodegeneration postmortem in a model of Alzheimer’s disease. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2022; 49:4338-4357. [PMID: 35852558 PMCID: PMC9606093 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-022-05896-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Modern neuroimaging lacks the tools necessary for whole-brain, anatomically dense neuronal damage screening. An ideal approach would include unbiased histopathologic identification of aging and neurodegenerative disease.
Methods
We report the postmortem application of multiscale X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography (X-PCI-CT) for the label-free and dissection-free organ-level to intracellular-level 3D visualization of distinct single neurons and glia. In deep neuronal populations in the brain of aged wild-type and of 3xTgAD mice (a triply-transgenic model of Alzheimer’s disease), we quantified intracellular hyperdensity, a manifestation of aging or neurodegeneration.
Results
In 3xTgAD mice, the observed hyperdensity was identified as amyloid-β and hyper-phosphorylated tau protein deposits with calcium and iron involvement, by correlating the X-PCI-CT data to immunohistochemistry, X-ray fluorescence microscopy, high-field MRI, and TEM. As a proof-of-concept, X-PCI-CT was used to analyze hippocampal and cortical brain regions of 3xTgAD mice treated with LY379268, selective agonist of group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu2/3 receptors). Chronic pharmacologic activation of mGlu2/3 receptors significantly reduced the hyperdensity particle load in the ventral cortical regions of 3xTgAD mice, suggesting a neuroprotective effect with locoregional efficacy.
Conclusions
This multiscale micro-to-nano 3D imaging method based on X-PCI-CT enabled identification and quantification of cellular and sub-cellular aging and neurodegeneration in deep neuronal and glial cell populations in a transgenic model of Alzheimer’s disease. This approach quantified the localized and intracellular neuroprotective effects of pharmacological activation of mGlu2/3 receptors.
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36
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Synchrotron X-ray biosample imaging: opportunities and challenges. Biophys Rev 2022; 14:625-633. [DOI: 10.1007/s12551-022-00964-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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Xian RP, Walsh CL, Verleden SE, Wagner WL, Bellier A, Marussi S, Ackermann M, Jonigk DD, Jacob J, Lee PD, Tafforeau P. A multiscale X-ray phase-contrast tomography dataset of a whole human left lung. Sci Data 2022; 9:264. [PMID: 35654864 PMCID: PMC9163096 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-022-01353-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Technological advancements in X-ray imaging using bright and coherent synchrotron sources now allows the decoupling of sample size and resolution while maintaining high sensitivity to the microstructures of soft, partially dehydrated tissues. The continuous developments in multiscale X-ray imaging resulted in hierarchical phase-contrast tomography, a comprehensive approach to address the challenge of organ-scale (up to tens of centimeters) soft tissue imaging with resolution and sensitivity down to the cellular level. Using this technique, we imaged ex vivo an entire human left lung at an isotropic voxel size of 25.08 μm along with local zooms down to 6.05-6.5 μm and 2.45-2.5 μm in voxel size. The high tissue contrast offered by the fourth-generation synchrotron source at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility reveals the complex multiscale anatomical constitution of the human lung from the macroscopic (centimeter) down to the microscopic (micrometer) scale. The dataset provides comprehensive organ-scale 3D information of the secondary pulmonary lobules and delineates the microstructure of lung nodules with unprecedented detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Patrick Xian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Claire L Walsh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stijn E Verleden
- Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Willi L Wagner
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Lung Research Centre Heidelberg (TLRC), German Lung Research Centre (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexandre Bellier
- Laboratoire d'Anatomie des Alpes Françaises (LADAF), Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Sebastian Marussi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Maximilian Ackermann
- Institute of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, Helios University Clinic Wuppertal, University of Witten/Herdecke, Wuppertal, Germany
- Institute of Functional and Clinical Anatomy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Danny D Jonigk
- Institute of Pathology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Biomedical Research in End-stage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), German Lung Research Centre (DZL), Hannover, Germany
| | - Joseph Jacob
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Radiology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Peter D Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Paul Tafforeau
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France.
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Sun W, Pyakurel U, MacDonald C, Petruccelli J. Grating-free quantitative phase retrieval for x-ray phase-contrast imaging with conventional sources. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2022; 8. [PMID: 35623335 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ac741d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
X-ray phase-contrast imaging can display subtle differences in low-density materials (e.g., soft tissues) more readily than conventional x-ray imaging. However, producing x-ray phase images requires significant spatial coherence of the beam which requires highly specialized sources such as synchrotrons, small and low power microfocus sources, or complex procedures, such as multiple exposures with several carefully stepped precision gratings. To find appropriate approaches for producing x-ray phase-contrast imaging in a clinically meaningful way, we employed a grating-free method that utilized a low-cost, coarse wire mesh and simple processing. This method relaxes the spatial coherence constraint and allows quantitative phase retrieval for not only monochromatic but also polychromatic beams. We also combined the mesh-based system with polycapillary optics to significantly improve the accuracy of quantitative phase retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyuan Sun
- Department of Physics, University at Albany, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, New York, 12222, UNITED STATES
| | - Uttam Pyakurel
- Department of Physics, University at Albany, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, New York, 12222, UNITED STATES
| | - Carolyn MacDonald
- Department of Physics, University at Albany, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, New York, 12222, UNITED STATES
| | - Jonathan Petruccelli
- Department of Physics, University at Albany, 1400 Washington Ave, Albany, Albany, New York, 12222-1000, UNITED STATES
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Zhao Y, Zheng M, Li Y, Han S, Li F, Qi B, Liu D, Hu C. Suppressing multi-material and streak artifacts with an accelerated 3D iterative image reconstruction algorithm for in-line X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:19684-19704. [PMID: 36221738 DOI: 10.1364/oe.459924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In-line X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography typically contains two independent procedures: phase retrieval and computed tomography reconstruction, in which multi-material and streak artifacts are two important problems. To address these problems simultaneously, an accelerated 3D iterative image reconstruction algorithm is proposed. It merges the above-mentioned two procedures into one step, and establishes the data fidelity term in raw projection domain while introducing 3D total variation regularization term in image domain. Specifically, a transport-of-intensity equation (TIE)-based phase retrieval method is updated alternately for different areas of the multi-material sample. Simulation and experimental results validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
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Shoukroun D, Doherty A, Endrizzi M, Bate D, Fromme P, Olivo A. Post-acquisition mask misalignment correction for edge illumination x-ray phase contrast imaging. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2022; 93:053706. [PMID: 35649794 DOI: 10.1063/5.0090517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Edge illumination x-ray phase contrast imaging uses a set of apertured masks to translate phase effects into variation of detected intensity. While the system is relatively robust against misalignment, mask movement during acquisition can lead to gradient artifacts. A method has been developed to correct the images by quantifying the misalignment post-acquisition and implementing correction maps to remove the gradient artifact. Images of a woven carbon fiber composite plate containing porosity were used as examples to demonstrate the image correction process. The gradient formed during image acquisition was removed without affecting the image quality, and results were subsequently used for quantification of porosity, indicating that the gradient correction did not affect the quantitative content of the images.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Shoukroun
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - A Doherty
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - M Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - D Bate
- Nikon, X-Tek Systems, Ltd., Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 4JX, United Kingdom
| | - P Fromme
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - A Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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Migga A, Schulz G, Rodgers G, Osterwalder M, Tanner C, Blank H, Jerjen I, Salmon P, Twengström W, Scheel M, Weitkamp T, Schlepütz CM, Bolten JS, Huwyler J, Hotz G, Madduri S, Müller B. Comparative hard x-ray tomography for virtual histology of zebrafish larva, human tooth cementum, and porcine nerve. J Med Imaging (Bellingham) 2022; 9:031507. [PMID: 35372637 PMCID: PMC8968075 DOI: 10.1117/1.jmi.9.3.031507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Synchrotron radiation-based tomography yields microanatomical features in human and animal tissues without physical slicing. Recent advances in instrumentation have made laboratory-based phase tomography feasible. We compared the performance of three cutting-edge laboratory systems benchmarked by synchrotron radiation-based tomography for three specimens. As an additional criterion, the user-friendliness of the three microtomography systems was considered. Approach: The three tomography systems-SkyScan 2214 (Bruker-microCT, Kontich, Belgium), Exciscope prototype (Stockholm, Sweden), and Xradia 620 Versa (Zeiss, Oberkochen, Germany)-were given 36 h to measure three medically relevant specimens, namely, zebrafish larva, archaeological human tooth, and porcine nerve. The obtained datasets were registered to the benchmark synchrotron radiation-based tomography from the same specimens and selected ones to the SkyScan 1275 and phoenix nanotom m® laboratory systems to characterize development over the last decade. Results: Next-generation laboratory-based microtomography almost reached the quality achieved by synchrotron-radiation facilities with respect to spatial and density resolution, as indicated by the visualization of the medically relevant microanatomical features. The SkyScan 2214 system and the Exciscope prototype demonstrated the complementarity of phase information by imaging the eyes of the zebrafish larva. The 3 - μ m thin annual layers in the tooth cementum were identified using Xradia 620 Versa. Conclusions: SkyScan 2214 was the simplest system and was well-suited to visualizing the wealth of anatomical features in the zebrafish larva. Data from the Exciscope prototype with the high photon flux from the liquid metal source showed the spiral nature of the myelin sheaths in the porcine nerve. Xradia 620 Versa, with detector optics as typically installed for synchrotron tomography beamlines, enabled the three-dimensional visualization of the zebrafish larva with comparable quality to the synchrotron data and the annual layers in the tooth cementum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Migga
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Clinical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Georg Schulz
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Core Facility Micro- and Nanotomography, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Griffin Rodgers
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Clinical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Melissa Osterwalder
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Clinical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christine Tanner
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Clinical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jan S. Bolten
- University of Basel, Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- University of Basel, Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Hotz
- Natural History Museum of Basel, Anthropological Collection, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Integrative Prehistory and Archaeological Science, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Srinivas Madduri
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Geneva, Department of Surgery, Geneva, Switzerland
- University Hospital Basel, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bert Müller
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Biomaterials Science Center, Department of Clinical Research, Basel, Switzerland
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Li T, Li S, Shi J, Li X, Liu J, Yang H, Wu W, Zhao L, Zhao Z. Real-time analysis of metabolites in vivo by online extraction electrospray ionization mass spectrometry coupled to microdialysis. Anal Chim Acta 2022; 1205:339760. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2022.339760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Multi-Modal X-ray Imaging and Analysis for Characterization of Urinary Stones. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12083798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Backgound: The composition of stones formed in the urinary tract plays an important role in their management over time. The most common imaging method for the non-invasive evaluation of urinary stones is radiography and computed tomography (CT). However, CT is not very sensitive, and cannot differentiate between all critical stone types. In this study, we propose the application, and evaluate the potential, of a multi-modal (or multi-contrast) X-ray imaging technique called speckle-based imaging (SBI) to differentiate between various types of urinary stones. Methods: Three different stone samples were extracted from animal and human urinary tracts and examined in a laboratory-based speckle tracking setup. The results were discussed based on an X-ray diffraction analysis and a comparison with X-ray microtomography and grating-based interferometry. Results: The stones were classified through compositional analysis by X-ray diffraction. The multi-contrast images obtained using the SBI method provided detailed information about the composition of various urinary stone types, and could differentiate between them. X-ray SBI could provide highly sensitive and high-resolution characterizations of different urinary stones in the radiography mode, comparable to those by grating interferometry. Conclusions: This investigation demonstrated the capability of the SBI technique for the non-invasive classification of urinary stones through radiography in a simple and cost-effective laboratory setting. This opens the possibility for further studies concerning full-field in vivo SBI for the clinical imaging of urinary stones.
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Drevet S, Favier B, Lardy B, Gavazzi G, Brun E. New imaging tools for mouse models of osteoarthritis. GeroScience 2022; 44:639-650. [PMID: 35129777 PMCID: PMC9135906 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-022-00525-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease characterized by a disruption of articular joint cartilage homeostasis. Mice are the most commonly used models to study OA. Despite recent reviews, there is still a lack of knowledge about the new development in imaging techniques. Two types of modalities are complementary: those that assess structural changes in joint tissues and those that assess metabolism and disease activity. Micro MRI is the most important imaging tool for OA research. Automated methodologies for assessing periarticular bone morphology with micro-CT have been developed allowing quantitative assessment of tibial surface that may be representative of the whole OA joint changes. Phase-contrast X-ray imaging provides in a single examination a high image precision with good differentiation between all anatomical elements of the knee joint (soft tissue and bone). Positron emission tomography, photoacoustic imaging, and fluorescence reflectance imaging provide molecular and functional data. To conclude, innovative imaging technologies could be an alternative to conventional histology with greater resolution and more efficiency in both morphological analysis and metabolism follow-up. There is a logic of permanent adjustment between innovations, 3R rule, and scientific perspectives. New imaging associated with artificial intelligence may add to human clinical practice allowing not only diagnosis but also prediction of disease progression to personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Drevet
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
- University Hospital Grenoble Alpes, Orthogeriatric Unit, Clinic of Geriatric Medicine, 38 000 Grenoble, France
| | - B. Favier
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - B. Lardy
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Laboratoire de Biochimie des Enzymes et des Protéines, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes, 38 000 Grenoble, France
| | - G. Gavazzi
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
- University Hospital Grenoble Alpes, Clinic of Geriatric Medicine, 38 000 Grenoble, France
| | - E. Brun
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, UA7, STROBE Laboratory, 38 000 Grenoble, France
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Bayat S, Fardin L, Cercos-Pita JL, Perchiazzi G, Bravin A. Imaging Regional Lung Structure and Function in Small Animals Using Synchrotron Radiation Phase-Contrast and K-Edge Subtraction Computed Tomography. Front Physiol 2022; 13:825433. [PMID: 35350681 PMCID: PMC8957951 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.825433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Synchrotron radiation offers unique properties of coherence, utilized in phase-contrast imaging, and high flux as well as a wide energy spectrum which allow the selection of very narrow energy bands of radiation, used in K-edge subtraction imaging (KES) imaging. These properties extend X-ray computed tomography (CT) capabilities to quantitatively assess lung morphology, and to map regional lung ventilation, perfusion, inflammation, aerosol particle distribution and biomechanical properties, with microscopic spatial resolution. Four-dimensional imaging, allows the investigation of the dynamics of regional lung functional parameters simultaneously with structural deformation of the lung as a function of time. These techniques have proven to be very useful for revealing the regional differences in both lung structure and function which is crucial for better understanding of disease mechanisms as well as for evaluating treatment in small animal models of lung diseases. Here, synchrotron radiation imaging methods are described and examples of their application to the study of disease mechanisms in preclinical animal models are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Bayat
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm UA07 STROBE Laboratory, University of Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Department of Pulmonology and Clinical Physiology, Grenoble University Hospital, Grenoble, France
| | - Luca Fardin
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France
| | - José Luis Cercos-Pita
- Hedenstierna Laboratory, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gaetano Perchiazzi
- Hedenstierna Laboratory, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alberto Bravin
- Department of Physics, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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Cercos-Pita JL, Fardin L, Leclerc H, Maury B, Perchiazzi G, Bravin A, Bayat S. Lung tissue biomechanics imaged with synchrotron phase contrast microtomography in live rats. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5056. [PMID: 35322152 PMCID: PMC8942151 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09052-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The magnitude and distribution of strain imposed on the peripheral airspaces by mechanical ventilation at the microscopic level and the consequent deformations are unknown despite their importance for understanding the mechanisms occurring at the onset of ventilator-induced lung injury. Here a 4-Dimensional (3D + time) image acquisition and processing technique is developed to assess pulmonary acinar biomechanics at microscopic resolution. Synchrotron radiation phase contrast CT with an isotropic voxel size of 6 µm3 is applied in live anesthetized rats under controlled mechanical ventilation. Video animations of regional acinar and vascular strain are acquired in vivo. Maps of strain distribution due to positive-pressure breaths and cardiovascular activity in lung acini and blood vessels are derived based on CT images. Regional strain within the lung peripheral airspaces takes average values of 0.09 ± 0.02. Fitting the expression S = kVn, to the changes in peripheral airspace area (S) and volume (V) during a positive pressure breath yields an exponent n = 0.82 ± 0.03, suggesting predominant alveolar expansion rather than ductal expansion or alveolar recruitment. We conclude that this methodology can be used to assess acinar conformational changes during positive pressure breaths in intact peripheral lung airspaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose-Luis Cercos-Pita
- Hedenstierna Laboratory, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Luca Fardin
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France
| | - Hugo Leclerc
- Laboratoire de Mathématiques d'Orsay, Université Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
| | - Bertrand Maury
- Département de Mathématiques Appliquées, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Gaetano Perchiazzi
- Hedenstierna Laboratory, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alberto Bravin
- Physics Department, Milano Bicocca University, Milan, Italy
| | - Sam Bayat
- Synchrotron Radiation for Biomedicine STROBE Inserm UA07, Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes - Inserm UA07, Synchrotron Radiation for Biomedicine (STROBE) Laboratory, 2280 Rue de la Piscine, 38400, Grenoble, France.
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Zeng C, Chen Z, Yang H, Fan Y, Fei L, Chen X, Zhang M. Advanced high resolution three-dimensional imaging to visualize the cerebral neurovascular network in stroke. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:552-571. [PMID: 35002509 PMCID: PMC8741851 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.64373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
As an important method to accurately and timely diagnose stroke and study physiological characteristics and pathological mechanism in it, imaging technology has gone through more than a century of iteration. The interaction of cells densely packed in the brain is three-dimensional (3D), but the flat images brought by traditional visualization methods show only a few cells and ignore connections outside the slices. The increased resolution allows for a more microscopic and underlying view. Today's intuitive 3D imagings of micron or even nanometer scale are showing its essentiality in stroke. In recent years, 3D imaging technology has gained rapid development. With the overhaul of imaging mediums and the innovation of imaging mode, the resolution has been significantly improved, endowing researchers with the capability of holistic observation of a large volume, real-time monitoring of tiny voxels, and quantitative measurement of spatial parameters. In this review, we will summarize the current methods of high-resolution 3D imaging applied in stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chudai Zeng
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China, 410008
| | - Zhuohui Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China, 410008
| | - Haojun Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China, 410008
| | - Yishu Fan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China, 410008
| | - Lujing Fei
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China, 410008
| | - Xinghang Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China, 410008
| | - Mengqi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China, 410008
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Materials Separation via the Matrix Method Employing Energy-Discriminating X-ray Detection. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12063198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The majority of lab-based X-ray sources are polychromatic and are not easily tunable, which can make the 3D quantitative analysis of multi-component samples challenging. The lack of effective materials separation when using conventional X-ray tube sources has motivated the development of a number of potential solutions including the application of dual-energy X-ray computed tomography (CT) as well as the use of X-ray filters. Here, we demonstrate the simultaneous decomposition of two low-density materials via inversion of the linear attenuation matrices using data from the energy-discriminating PiXirad detector. A key application for this method is soft-tissue differentiation which is widely used in biological and medical imaging. We assess the effectiveness of this approach using both simulation and experiment noting that none of the materials investigated here incorporate any contrast enhancing agents. By exploiting the energy discriminating properties of the detector, narrow energy bands are created resulting in multiple quasi-monochromatic images being formed using a broadband polychromatic source. Optimization of the key parameters for materials separation is first demonstrated in simulation followed by experimental validation using a phantom test sample in 2D and a small-animal model in 3D.
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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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Tu J, Brennan PC, Lewis S, Tavakoli Taba S. A bibliometric and social network analysis perspective of X-ray phase-contrast imaging in medical imaging. J Med Radiat Sci 2022; 69:37-46. [PMID: 34383367 PMCID: PMC8892418 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Phase-contrast imaging (PCI) is a novel technology that can visualise variations in X-ray refraction (phase contrast) in addition to differences in X-ray attenuation (absorption contrast). Compared to radiography using conventional methods (i.e. absorption-based imaging), PCI techniques can potentially produce images with higher contrast-to-noise ratio and superior spatial resolution at the same or lower radiation doses. This has led PCI to be explored for implementation in medical imaging. While interest in this research field is increasing, the whole body of PCI research in medical imaging has been under-investigated. This paper provides an overview of PCI literature and then focusses on evaluating its development within the scope of medical imaging. METHODS Bibliographic data between 1995 and 2018 were used to visualise collaboration networks between countries, institutions and authors. Social network analysis techniques were implemented to measure these networks in terms of centrality and cohesion. These techniques also assisted in the exploration of underlying research paradigms of clinical X-ray PCI investigations. RESULTS Forty-one countries, 592 institutions and 2073 authors contributed 796 investigations towards clinical PCI research. The most influential contributors and network collaboration characteristics were identified. Italy was the most influential country, with the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility being the most influential institution. At an author level, F. Pfeiffer was found to be the most influential researcher. Among various PCI techniques, grating interferometry was the most investigated, while computed tomography was the most frequently examined modality. CONCLUSIONS By gaining an understanding of collaborations and trends within clinical X-ray PCI research, the links between existing collaborators were identified, which can aid future collaborations between emerging and established collaborators. Moreover, exploring the paradigm of past investigations can shape future research - well-researched PCI techniques may be studied to bring X-ray PCI closer to clinical implementation, or the potential of seldom-investigated techniques may be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Tu
- Medical Image Optimisation and Perception Group (MIOPeG)Sydney School of Health SciencesFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Patrick C. Brennan
- Medical Image Optimisation and Perception Group (MIOPeG)Sydney School of Health SciencesFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Sarah Lewis
- Medical Image Optimisation and Perception Group (MIOPeG)Sydney School of Health SciencesFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Seyedamir Tavakoli Taba
- Medical Image Optimisation and Perception Group (MIOPeG)Sydney School of Health SciencesFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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