1
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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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2
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Olivo A. Edge-illumination x-ray phase-contrast imaging. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2021; 33:363002. [PMID: 34167096 PMCID: PMC8276004 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ac0e6e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Although early demonstration dates back to the mid-sixties, x-ray phase-contrast imaging (XPCI) became hugely popular in the mid-90s, thanks to the advent of 3rd generation synchrotron facilities. Its ability to reveal object features that had so far been considered invisible to x-rays immediately suggested great potential for applications across the life and the physical sciences, and an increasing number of groups worldwide started experimenting with it. At that time, it looked like a synchrotron facility was strictly necessary to perform XPCI with some degree of efficiency-the only alternative being micro-focal sources, the limited flux of which imposed excessively long exposure times. However, new approaches emerged in the mid-00s that overcame this limitation, and allowed XPCI implementations with conventional, non-micro-focal x-ray sources. One of these approaches showing particular promise for 'real-world' applications is edge-illumination XPCI: this article describes the key steps in its evolution in the context of contemporary developments in XPCI research, and presents its current state-of-the-art, especially in terms of transition towards practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, UCL, London, United Kingdom
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3
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Rouge-Labriet H, Quenot L, Bohic S, Fayard B, Paganin DM, Brun E, Berujon S. Comparison of X-ray speckle-based imaging deflection retrieval algorithms for the optimization of radiation dose. Phys Med Biol 2021; 66:065005. [PMID: 32268312 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ab87f7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
X-ray phase contrast imaging can provide improved or complementary information to traditional attenuation-based X-ray imaging, making the field a vast and rapidly evolving research subject. X-ray speckle-based imaging (SBI) is one phase-contrast imaging approach that has shown significant potential in providing both high sensitivity and high resolution while using a very simple experimental setup. With the aim of transferring such phase-contrast-based imaging techniques from synchrotron to laboratory X-ray sources, the issue of the deposited radiation dose still remains to be addressed. In this work, we experimentally and quantitatively compare the results from three different SBI phase retrieval algorithms using both phantoms and biological samples in order to infer the optimal configuration. The results obtained using a synchrotron beam suggest that the technique based on optical flow conservation achieves the most accurate retrieval from the lowest number of sample exposures. This constitutes an important step toward the possibility of transferring SBI into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Rouge-Labriet
- NOVITOM, 3 av. doyen Louis Weil, 38000 Grenoble, France. Inserm UA7 STROBE, Universite Grenoble Alpes, 71 av. des Martyrs, 38000 Grenoble, France
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4
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Hagen CK, Roche i Morgó O, Olivo A. Predicting the noise in hybrid (phase and attenuation) x‐ray images acquired with the edge illumination technique. Med Phys 2020; 47:4439-4449. [DOI: 10.1002/mp.14366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Klara Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering University College London Malet Place, Gower Street LondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Oriol Roche i Morgó
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering University College London Malet Place, Gower Street LondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering University College London Malet Place, Gower Street LondonWC1E 6BTUK
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5
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Buchanan I, Mittone A, Bravin A, Diemoz P, Endrizzi M, Olivo A. Simplified retrieval method for Edge Illumination X-ray phase contrast imaging allowing multi-modal imaging with fewer input frames. OPTICS EXPRESS 2020; 28:11597-11608. [PMID: 32403667 DOI: 10.1364/oe.372312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We present data from an implementation of Edge Illumination (EI) that uses a detector aperture designed for increasing dynamic range, suitable for clinically relevant X-ray energies and demonstrated here using synchrotron radiation. By utilising a sufficiently large crosstalk between pixels, this implementation enables single-scan imaging for phase and absorption, and double-scan for phase, absorption and dark field imaging. The presence of the detector mask enables a direct comparison between conventional EI and beam tracking (BT), which we conduct through Monte Carlo and analytical modelling in the case of a single-scan being used for the retrieval of all three contrasts. In the present case, where the X-ray beam width is comparable to the pixel size, we provide an analysis on best-positioning of the beam on the detector for accurate signal retrieval. Further, we demonstrate an application of this method by distinguishing different concentrations of microbubbles via their dark field signals at high energy using an EI system.
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6
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Chen Y, Zhou W, Hagen CK, Olivo A, Anastasio MA. Comparison of data-acquisition designs for single-shot edge-illumination X-ray phase-contrast tomography. OPTICS EXPRESS 2020; 28:1-19. [PMID: 32118936 PMCID: PMC7053502 DOI: 10.1364/oe.28.000001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Edge-illumination X-ray phase-contrast tomography (EIXPCT) is an emerging technique that enables practical phase-contrast imaging with laboratory-based X-ray sources. A joint reconstruction method was proposed for reconstructing EIXPCT images, enabling novel flexible data-acquisition designs. However, only limited efforts have been devoted to optimizing data-acquisition designs for use with the joint reconstruction method. In this study, several promising designs are introduced, such as the constant aperture position (CAP) strategy and the alternating aperture position (AAP) strategy covering different angular ranges. In computer-simulation studies, these designs are analyzed and compared. Experimental data are employed to test the designs in real-world applications. All candidate designs are also compared for their implementation complexity. The tradeoff between data-acquisition time and image quality is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Chen
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Campus Box 1097, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Weimin Zhou
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering, Campus Box 1097, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Charlotte K. Hagen
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Malet Place, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Malet Place, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Mark A. Anastasio
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Bioengineering, 1102 Everitt Lab MC 278, 1406 W. Green St., Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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7
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Modregger P, Meganck J, Hagen CK, Massimi L, Olivo A, Endrizzi M. Improved iterative tomographic reconstruction for x-ray imaging with edge-illumination. Phys Med Biol 2019; 64:205008. [PMID: 31509810 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ab439d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Iterative tomographic reconstruction has been established as a viable alternative for data analysis in phase-sensitive x-ray imaging based on the edge-illumination principle. However, previously published approaches did not account for drifts of optical elements during a scan, which can lead to artefacts. Up to now, the strategy to reduce these artefacts was to acquire additional intermediate flat field images, which were used to correct the sinograms. Here, we expand the theoretical model to take these effects into account and demonstrate a significant reduction of (ring)-artefacts in the final reconstructions, while allowing for a significant reduction of scan time and dose. We further improve the model by including the capability to reconstruct combined absorption and phase contrast slices, which we experimentally demonstrate to deliver improved contrast to noise ratios compared to previously employed single shot approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Modregger
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London, Gower Street, WC1E 6BT London, United Kingdom. Author to whom correspondence should be addressed
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8
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Wang Z, Ren K, Shi X, Ren Y, Gao K, Wu Z. Single-image phase retrieval for hard X-ray grating interferometry. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2019; 26:215-219. [PMID: 30655487 DOI: 10.1107/s1600577518016727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A single-image method is proposed for quantitative phase retrieval in hard X-ray grating interferometry. This novel method assumes a quasi-homogeneous sample, with a constant ratio between the real and imaginary parts of its complex refractive index. The method is first theoretically derived and presented, and then validated by synchrotron radiation experiments. Compared with the phase-stepping method, the presented approach abandons grating scanning and multiple image acquisition, and is therefore advantageous in terms of its simplified acquisition procedure and reduced data-collection times, which are especially important for applications such as in vivo imaging and phase tomography. Moreover, the sample's phase image, instead of its first derivative, is directly retrieved. In particular, the stripe artifacts encountered in the integrated phase images are significantly suppressed. The improved quality of the retrieved phase images can be beneficial for image interpretation and subsequent processing. Owing to its requirement for a single image and its robustness against noise, the present method is expected to find use in potential investigations in diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Wang
- School of Electronic Science and Applied Physics, Hefei University of Technology, Anhui 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Ren
- School of Electronic Science and Applied Physics, Hefei University of Technology, Anhui 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Shi
- School of Electronic Science and Applied Physics, Hefei University of Technology, Anhui 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqi Ren
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201204, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Gao
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui 230026, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Wu
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui 230026, People's Republic of China
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9
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In vivo Dynamic Phase-Contrast X-ray Imaging using a Compact Light Source. Sci Rep 2018; 8:6788. [PMID: 29717143 PMCID: PMC5931574 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-24763-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe the first dynamic and the first in vivo X-ray imaging studies successfully performed at a laser-undulator-based compact synchrotron light source. The X-ray properties of this source enable time-sequence propagation-based X-ray phase-contrast imaging. We focus here on non-invasive imaging for respiratory treatment development and physiological understanding. In small animals, we capture the regional delivery of respiratory treatment, and two measures of respiratory health that can reveal the effectiveness of a treatment; lung motion and mucociliary clearance. The results demonstrate the ability of this set-up to perform laboratory-based dynamic imaging, specifically in small animal models, and with the possibility of longitudinal studies.
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10
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Chen Y, Anastasio MA. Properties of a Joint Reconstruction Method for Edge-Illumination X-Ray Phase-Contrast Tomography. SENSING AND IMAGING 2018; 19:7. [PMID: 30319316 PMCID: PMC6176731 DOI: 10.1007/s11220-018-0186-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Edge illumination X-ray phase-contrast tomography (EIXPCT) is an emerging technique for estimating the complex-valued refractive index distribution of an imaged object. A conventional EIXPCT system requires measurement of multiple images at each tomographic view angle, leading to prolonged data acquisition times. Recently, a joint reconstruction (JR) method has been developed to enable single-shot EIXPCT imaging without restrictive assumptions related to the object, imaging geometry or hardware. In the JR method, estimates of the refractive index distribution are recast as the solution to a nonlinear optimization problem. While a preliminary study has demonstrated the potential usefulness of the JR method, its numerical properties remain largely unexplored. In this project, the convexity, cross-talk properties and noise properties of the JR method are investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Chen
- Washington University in St Louis, Campus box 1097, One Brookings Drive St Louis, MO, 63130
| | - Mark A Anastasio
- Washington University in St Louis, Campus box 1097, One Brookings Drive St Louis, MO, 63130
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11
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Gureyev TE, Nesterets YI, Kozlov A, Paganin DM, Quiney HM. On the "unreasonable" effectiveness of transport of intensity imaging and optical deconvolution. JOURNAL OF THE OPTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA. A, OPTICS, IMAGE SCIENCE, AND VISION 2017; 34:2251-2260. [PMID: 29240102 DOI: 10.1364/josaa.34.002251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The effectiveness of reconstructive imaging using the homogeneous transport of intensity equation may be regarded as "unreasonable," because it has been shown to significantly increase signal-to-noise ratio while preserving spatial resolution, compared to equivalent conventional absorption-based imaging techniques at the same photon fluence. We reconcile this surprising behavior by analyzing the propagation of noise in typical in-line holography experiments. This analysis indicates that novel imaging techniques may be designed that produce high signal-to-noise images at low radiation doses without sacrificing spatial resolution.
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12
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Zamir A, Hagen C, Diemoz PC, Endrizzi M, Vittoria F, Chen Y, Anastasio MA, Olivo A. Recent advances in edge illumination x-ray phase-contrast tomography. J Med Imaging (Bellingham) 2017; 4:040901. [PMID: 29057286 PMCID: PMC5641577 DOI: 10.1117/1.jmi.4.4.040901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Edge illumination (EI) is an x-ray phase-contrast imaging technique, exploiting sensitivity to x-ray refraction to visualize features, which are often not detected by conventional absorption-based radiography. The method does not require a high degree of spatial coherence and is achromatic and, therefore, can be implemented with both synchrotron radiation and commercial x-ray tubes. Using different retrieval algorithms, information about an object's attenuation, refraction, and scattering properties can be obtained. In recent years, a theoretical framework has been developed that enables EI computed tomography (CT) and, hence, three-dimensional imaging. This review provides a summary of these advances, covering the development of different image acquisition schemes, retrieval approaches, and applications. These developments constitute an integral part in the transformation of EI CT into a widely spread imaging tool for use in a range of fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zamir
- 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
| | - Paul C Diemoz
- 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
| | - Fabio Vittoria
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yujia Chen
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Biomedical Engineering, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Mark A Anastasio
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Biomedical Engineering, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Astolfo A, Endrizzi M, Vittoria FA, Diemoz PC, Price B, Haig I, Olivo A. Large field of view, fast and low dose multimodal phase-contrast imaging at high x-ray energy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2187. [PMID: 28526835 PMCID: PMC5438381 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02412-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
X-ray phase contrast imaging (XPCI) is an innovative imaging technique which extends the contrast capabilities of 'conventional' absorption based x-ray systems. However, so far all XPCI implementations have suffered from one or more of the following limitations: low x-ray energies, small field of view (FOV) and long acquisition times. Those limitations relegated XPCI to a 'research-only' technique with an uncertain future in terms of large scale, high impact applications. We recently succeeded in designing, realizing and testing an XPCI system, which achieves significant steps toward simultaneously overcoming these limitations. Our system combines, for the first time, large FOV, high energy and fast scanning. Importantly, it is capable of providing high image quality at low x-ray doses, compatible with or even below those currently used in medical imaging. This extends the use of XPCI to areas which were unpractical or even inaccessible to previous XPCI solutions. We expect this will enable a long overdue translation into application fields such as security screening, industrial inspections and large FOV medical radiography - all with the inherent advantages of the XPCI multimodality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Astolfo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fabio A Vittoria
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul C Diemoz
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Price
- X-Tek Systems-Nikon, Tring Business Centre, Icknield Way, Tring, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Ian Haig
- X-Tek Systems-Nikon, Tring Business Centre, Icknield Way, Tring, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London, United Kingdom.
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14
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Zamir A, Diemoz PC, Vittoria FA, Hagen CK, Endrizzi M, Olivo A. Edge illumination X-ray phase tomography of multi-material samples using a single-image phase retrieval algorithm. OPTICS EXPRESS 2017; 25:11984-11996. [PMID: 28788753 DOI: 10.1364/oe.25.011984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In this paper we present a single-image phase retrieval algorithm for multi-material samples, developed for the edge illumination (EI) X-ray phase contrast imaging method. The theoretical derivation is provided, along with any assumptions made. The algorithm is evaluated quantitatively using both simulated and experimental results from a computed tomography (CT) scan using the EI laboratory implementation. Qualitative CT results are provided for a biological sample containing both bone and soft-tissue. Using a single EI image per projection and knowledge of the complex refractive index, the algorithm can accurately retrieve the interface between a given pair of materials. A composite CT slice can be created by splicing together multiple CT reconstructions, each retrieved for a different pair of materials.
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15
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Chen Y, Guan H, Hagen CK, Olivo A, Anastasio MA. Single-shot edge illumination x-ray phase-contrast tomography enabled by joint image reconstruction. OPTICS LETTERS 2017; 42:619-622. [PMID: 28146542 PMCID: PMC5480615 DOI: 10.1364/ol.42.000619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Edge illumination x-ray phase-contrast tomography (EIXPCT) is an emerging x-ray phase-contrast tomography technique for reconstructing the complex-valued x-ray refractive index distribution of an object. Conventional image reconstruction approaches for EIXPCT require multiple images to be acquired at each tomographic view angle. This contributes to prolonged data-acquisition times and elevated radiation doses, which can hinder in vivo applications. In this work, a new "single-shot" method is proposed for joint reconstruction (JR) of the real and imaginary-valued components of the refractive index distribution from a tomographic data set that contains only a single image acquired at each view angle. The proposed method is predicated on a nonlinear formulation of the inverse problem that is solved by using a gradient-based optimization method. The method is validated and investigated using computer-simulated and experimental EIXPCT data sets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Huifeng Guan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Charlotte K. Hagen
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, Malet Place, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Mark A. Anastasio
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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16
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Diémoz PC, Vittoria FA, Hagen CK, Endrizzi M, Coan P, Bravin A, Wagner UH, Rau C, Robinson IK, Olivo A. A single-image retrieval method for edge illumination X-ray phase-contrast imaging: Application and noise analysis. Phys Med 2016; 32:1759-1764. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2016.07.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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17
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Diemoz PC, Bravin A, Sztrókay-Gaul A, Ruat M, Grandl S, Mayr D, Auweter S, Mittone A, Brun E, Ponchut C, Reiser MF, Coan P, Olivo A. A method for high-energy, low-dose mammography using edge illumination x-ray phase-contrast imaging. Phys Med Biol 2016; 61:8750-8761. [PMID: 27893445 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/61/24/8750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Since the breast is one of the most radiosensitive organs, mammography is arguably the area where lowering radiation dose is of the uttermost importance. Phase-based x-ray imaging methods can provide opportunities in this sense, since they do not require x-rays to be stopped in tissue for image contrast to be generated. Therefore, x-ray energy can be considerably increased compared to those usually exploited by conventional mammography. In this article we show how a novel, optimized approach can lead to considerable dose reductions. This was achieved by matching the edge-illumination phase method, which reaches very high angular sensitivity also at high x-ray energies, to an appropriate image processing algorithm and to a virtually noise-free detection technology capable of reaching almost 100% efficiency at the same energies. Importantly, while proof-of-concept was obtained at a synchrotron, the method has potential for a translation to conventional sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C Diemoz
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
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18
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Robust phase retrieval for high resolution edge illumination x-ray phase-contrast computed tomography in non-ideal environments. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31197. [PMID: 27502296 PMCID: PMC4977490 DOI: 10.1038/srep31197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Edge illumination x-ray phase contrast tomography is a recently developed imaging technique which enables three-dimensional visualisation of low-absorbing materials. Dedicated phase retrieval algorithms can provide separate computed tomography (CT) maps of sample absorption, refraction and scattering properties. In this paper we propose a novel “modified local retrieval” method which is capable of accurately retrieving sample properties in a range of realistic, non-ideal imaging environments. These include system misalignment, defects in the used optical elements and system geometry variations over time due to vibrations or temperature fluctuations. System instabilities were analysed, modelled and incorporated into a simulation study. As a result, an additional modification was introduced to the retrieval procedure to account for changes in the imaging system over time, as well as local variations over the field of view. The performance of the proposed method was evaluated in comparison to a previously used “global retrieval” method by applying both approaches to experimental CT data of a rat’s heart acquired in a non-ideal environment. The use of the proposed method resulted in the removal of major artefacts, leading to a significant improvement in image quality. This method will therefore enable acquiring high-resolution, reliable CT data of large samples in realistic settings.
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19
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Izadifar Z, Honaramooz A, Wiebe S, Belev G, Chen X, Chapman D. Low-dose phase-based X-ray imaging techniques for in situ soft tissue engineering assessments. Biomaterials 2016; 82:151-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.11.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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20
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Hagen CK, Maghsoudlou P, Totonelli G, Diemoz PC, Endrizzi M, Rigon L, Menk RH, Arfelli F, Dreossi D, Brun E, Coan P, Bravin A, De Coppi P, Olivo A. High contrast microstructural visualization of natural acellular matrices by means of phase-based x-ray tomography. Sci Rep 2015; 5:18156. [PMID: 26657471 PMCID: PMC4677348 DOI: 10.1038/srep18156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Acellular scaffolds obtained via decellularization are a key instrument in regenerative medicine both per se and to drive the development of future-generation synthetic scaffolds that could become available off-the-shelf. In this framework, imaging is key to the understanding of the scaffolds’ internal structure as well as their interaction with cells and other organs, including ideally post-implantation. Scaffolds of a wide range of intricate organs (esophagus, lung, liver and small intestine) were imaged with x-ray phase contrast computed tomography (PC-CT). Image quality was sufficiently high to visualize scaffold microarchitecture and to detect major anatomical features, such as the esophageal mucosal-submucosal separation, pulmonary alveoli and intestinal villi. These results are a long-sought step for the field of regenerative medicine; until now, histology and scanning electron microscopy have been the gold standard to study the scaffold structure. However, they are both destructive: hence, they are not suitable for imaging scaffolds prior to transplantation, and have no prospect for post-transplantation use. PC-CT, on the other hand, is non-destructive, 3D and fully quantitative. Importantly, not only do we demonstrate achievement of high image quality at two different synchrotron facilities, but also with commercial x-ray equipment, which makes the method available to any research laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte K Hagen
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | | | - Giorgia Totonelli
- University College London, Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Paul C Diemoz
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Endrizzi
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Luigi Rigon
- University of Trieste, Department of Physics, Trieste, 34127, Italy.,Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Trieste, Trieste, 34127, Italy
| | | | - Fulvia Arfelli
- University of Trieste, Department of Physics, Trieste, 34127, Italy
| | - Diego Dreossi
- Sincrotrone Trieste SCpA, Basovizza/Trieste, 34012, Italy
| | - Emmanuel Brun
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, 38043, France
| | - Paola Coan
- Ludwig Maximilians University, Department of Physics, Garching, 85748, Germany.,Ludwig Maximilians University, Faculty of Medicine, Grosshadern-Munich, 81377, Germany
| | - Alberto Bravin
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, 38043, France
| | - Paolo De Coppi
- University College London, Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Olivo
- University College London, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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