Morphometric analysis - Cone beam computed tomography to predict bone quality and quantity.

PubMed

Hohlweg-Majert, B; Metzger, M C; Kummer, T; Schulze, D

2011-07-01

Modified quantitative computed tomography is a method used to predict bone quality and quantify the bone mass of the jaw. The aim of this study was to determine whether bone quantity or quality was detected by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) combined with image analysis. MATERIALS AND PROCEDURES: Different measurements recorded on two phantoms (Siemens phantom, Comac phantom) were evaluated on images taken with the Somatom VolumeZoom (Siemens Medical Solutions, Erlangen, Germany) and the NewTom 9000 (NIM s.r.l., Verona, Italy) in order to calculate a calibration curve. The spatial relationships of six sample cylinders and the repositioning from four pig skull halves relative to adjacent defined anatomical structures were assessed by means of three-dimensional visualization software. The calibration curves for computer tomography (CT) and cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) using the Siemens phantom showed linear correlation in both modalities between the Hounsfield Units (HU) and bone morphology. A correction factor for CBCT was calculated. Exact information about the micromorphology of the bone cylinders was only available using of micro computer tomography. Cone-beam computer tomography is a suitable choice for analysing bone mass, but, it does not give any information about bone quality. 2010 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A novel method for NDT applications using NXCT system at the Missouri University of Science & Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinha, Vaibhav; Srivastava, Anjali; Koo Lee, Hyoung

2014-06-01

A novel method for non-destructive analysis has been developed using a neutron/X-ray combined computed tomography (NXCT) system at the Missouri University of Science and Technology Reactor (MSTR). This imaging system takes advantage of the fact that neutrons and X-rays have characteristically different interactions with same materials. NXCT fuses the imaging capabilities of both systems at one location and allows instant evaluation for nondestructive testing (NDT) applications. This technique promises viable advances in the field of NDT. In this paper, the complete design criteria and procedures are provided. The described design criteria and procedures can effectively be utilized to design and develop advanced combined computed tomography system. The successful operation of the high resolution X-ray and neutron computed tomography has been demonstrated in this paper. The utility and importance of the NXCT system has been shown by nondestructive evaluation of various phantoms constituting different materials, geometrical, structural and compositional information. The concept of NXCT can be useful for concealed material detection, material characterization, investigation of complex geometries involving different atomic number materials and real time imaging for in-situ studies.

Non-medical Uses of Computed Tomography (CT) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Science.gov Websites

Finding Aids dropdown arrow Site Map A-Z Index Menu Synopsis Non-medical Uses of Computed Tomography (CT materials characterizations, and to provide non-destructive evaluations for discovering flaws in parts presence and facilitate the recovery/extraction of oil, water, coal, and/or gas; and to provide non

Documentation of the ISA Micro Computed Tomography System

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brown, William D.; Smith, Jerel A.

2013-12-18

This document is intended to provide information on the ISA Micro Computed Tomography (MicroCT) system that will be installed in Yavne, Israel. X-ray source, detector, and motion control hardware are specified as well as specimen platforms, containers, and reference material types. Most of the details on the system are derived from Reference 1 and 2.

Quantitative X-ray fluorescence computed tomography for low-Z samples using an iterative absorption correction algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Rong; Limburg, Karin; Rohtla, Mehis

2017-05-01

X-ray fluorescence computed tomography is often used to measure trace element distributions within low-Z samples, using algorithms capable of X-ray absorption correction when sample self-absorption is not negligible. Its reconstruction is more complicated compared to transmission tomography, and therefore not widely used. We describe in this paper a very practical iterative method that uses widely available transmission tomography reconstruction software for fluorescence tomography. With this method, sample self-absorption can be corrected not only for the absorption within the measured layer but also for the absorption by material beyond that layer. By combining tomography with analysis for scanning X-ray fluorescence microscopy, absolute concentrations of trace elements can be obtained. By using widely shared software, we not only minimized the coding, took advantage of computing efficiency of fast Fourier transform in transmission tomography software, but also thereby accessed well-developed data processing tools coming with well-known and reliable software packages. The convergence of the iterations was also carefully studied for fluorescence of different attenuation lengths. As an example, fish eye lenses could provide valuable information about fish life-history and endured environmental conditions. Given the lens's spherical shape and sometimes the short distance from sample to detector for detecting low concentration trace elements, its tomography data are affected by absorption related to material beyond the measured layer but can be reconstructed well with our method. Fish eye lens tomography results are compared with sliced lens 2D fluorescence mapping with good agreement, and with tomography providing better spatial resolution.

Contrast Materials

MedlinePlus

... is mixed with water before administration liquid paste tablet When iodine-based and barium-sulfate contrast materials ... for patients with kidney failure or allergies to MRI and/or computed tomography (CT) contrast material. Microbubble ...

Computed tomography for non-destructive evaluation of composites: Applications and correlations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldberg, B.; Hediger, L.; Noel, E.

1985-01-01

The state-of-the-art fabrication techniques for composite materials are such that stringent species-specific acceptance criteria must be generated to insure product reliability. Non-destructive evaluation techniques including computed tomography (CT), X-ray radiography (RT), and ultrasonic scanning (UT) are investigated and compared to determine their applicability and limitations to graphite epoxy, carbon-carbon, and carbon-phenolic materials. While the techniques appear complementary, CT is shown to provide significant, heretofore unattainable data. Finally, a correlation of NDE techniques to destructive analysis is presented.

The Development of Engineering Tomography for Monolithic and Composite Materials and Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hemann, John

1997-01-01

The research accomplishments under this grant were very extensive in the areas of the development of engineering tomography for monolithic and composite materials and components. Computed tomography was used on graphite composite pins and bushings to find porosity, cracks, and delaminations. It supported the following two programs: Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) and Southern Research institute (SRI). Did research using CT and radiography on Nickel based Superalloy dogbones and found density variations and gas shrinkage porosity. Did extensive radiography and CT of PMC composite flywheels and found delamination and non-uniform fiber distribution. This grant supported the Attitude Control Energy Storage Experiment (ACESE) program. Found broken fibers and cracks of outer stainless steel fibers using both radiographic and CT techniques on Pratt and Whitney fuel lines; Supported the Pratt & Whitney and Aging Aircraft engines program. Grant research helped identify and corroborate thickness variations and density differences in a silicon nitride "ROTH" tube using computed tomography.

Concealed nuclear material identification via combined fast-neutron/γ-ray computed tomography (FNGCT): a Monte Carlo study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Licata, M.; Joyce, M. J.

2018-02-01

The potential of a combined and simultaneous fast-neutron/γ-ray computed tomography technique using Monte Carlo simulations is described. This technique is applied on the basis of a hypothetical tomography system comprising an isotopic radiation source (americium-beryllium) and a number (13) of organic scintillation detectors for the production and detection of both fast neutrons and γ rays, respectively. Via a combination of γ-ray and fast neutron tomography the potential is demonstrated to discern nuclear materials, such as compounds comprising plutonium and uranium, from substances that are used widely for neutron moderation and shielding. This discrimination is achieved on the basis of the difference in the attenuation characteristics of these substances. Discrimination of a variety of nuclear material compounds from shielding/moderating substances (the latter comprising lead or polyethylene for example) is shown to be challenging when using either γ-ray or neutron tomography in isolation of one another. Much-improved contrast is obtained for a combination of these tomographic modalities. This method has potential applications for in-situ, non-destructive assessments in nuclear security, safeguards, waste management and related requirements in the nuclear industry.

Study of Image Qualities From 6D Robot-Based CBCT Imaging System of Small Animal Irradiator.

PubMed

Sharma, Sunil; Narayanasamy, Ganesh; Clarkson, Richard; Chao, Ming; Moros, Eduardo G; Zhang, Xin; Yan, Yulong; Boerma, Marjan; Paudel, Nava; Morrill, Steven; Corry, Peter; Griffin, Robert J

2017-01-01

To assess the quality of cone beam computed tomography images obtained by a robotic arm-based and image-guided small animal conformal radiation therapy device. The small animal conformal radiation therapy device is equipped with a 40 to 225 kV X-ray tube mounted on a custom made gantry, a 1024 × 1024 pixels flat panel detector (200 μm resolution), a programmable 6 degrees of freedom robot for cone beam computed tomography imaging and conformal delivery of radiation doses. A series of 2-dimensional radiographic projection images were recorded in cone beam mode by placing and rotating microcomputed tomography phantoms on the "palm' of the robotic arm. Reconstructed images were studied for image quality (spatial resolution, image uniformity, computed tomography number linearity, voxel noise, and artifacts). Geometric accuracy was measured to be 2% corresponding to 0.7 mm accuracy on a Shelley microcomputed tomography QA phantom. Qualitative resolution of reconstructed axial computed tomography slices using the resolution coils was within 200 μm. Quantitative spatial resolution was found to be 3.16 lp/mm. Uniformity of the system was measured within 34 Hounsfield unit on a QRM microcomputed tomography water phantom. Computed tomography numbers measured using the linearity plate were linear with material density ( R 2 > 0.995). Cone beam computed tomography images of the QRM multidisk phantom had minimal artifacts. Results showed that the small animal conformal radiation therapy device is capable of producing high-quality cone beam computed tomography images for precise and conformal small animal dose delivery. With its high-caliber imaging capabilities, the small animal conformal radiation therapy device is a powerful tool for small animal research.

Degradation of metallic materials studied by correlative tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burnett, T. L.; Holroyd, N. J. H.; Lewandowski, J. J.; Ogurreck, M.; Rau, C.; Kelley, R.; Pickering, E. J.; Daly, M.; Sherry, A. H.; Pawar, S.; Slater, T. J. A.; Withers, P. J.

2017-07-01

There are a huge array of characterization techniques available today and increasingly powerful computing resources allowing for the effective analysis and modelling of large datasets. However, each experimental and modelling tool only spans limited time and length scales. Correlative tomography can be thought of as the extension of correlative microscopy into three dimensions connecting different techniques, each providing different types of information, or covering different time or length scales. Here the focus is on the linking of time lapse X-ray computed tomography (CT) and serial section electron tomography using the focussed ion beam (FIB)-scanning electron microscope to study the degradation of metals. Correlative tomography can provide new levels of detail by delivering a multiscale 3D picture of key regions of interest. Specifically, the Xe+ Plasma FIB is used as an enabling tool for large-volume high-resolution serial sectioning of materials, and also as a tool for preparation of microscale test samples and samples for nanoscale X-ray CT imaging. The exemplars presented illustrate general aspects relating to correlative workflows, as well as to the time-lapse characterisation of metal microstructures during various failure mechanisms, including ductile fracture of steel and the corrosion of aluminium and magnesium alloys. Correlative tomography is already providing significant insights into materials behaviour, linking together information from different instruments across different scales. Multiscale and multifaceted work flows will become increasingly routine, providing a feed into multiscale materials models as well as illuminating other areas, particularly where hierarchical structures are of interest.

Opportunities for Fluorochlorozirconate and Other Glass-Ceramic Detectors in Medical Imaging Devices

PubMed Central

Johnson, Jacqueline A.; Leonard, Russell L.; Lubinsky, AR; Schweizer, Stefan

2017-01-01

This article gives an overview of fluorochlorozirconate glass-ceramic scintillators and storage phosphor materials: how they are synthesized, what their properties are, and how they can be used in medical imaging. Such materials can enhance imaging in x-ray radiography, especially mammography and dental imaging, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography. Although focusing on fluorochlorozirconate materials, the reader will find the discussion is relevant to other luminescent glass and glass-ceramic systems. PMID:28890955

Visualisation of the temporary cavity by computed tomography using contrast material.

PubMed

Schyma, Christian; Hagemeier, Lars; Greschus, Susanne; Schild, Hans; Madea, Burkhard

2012-01-01

The temporary cavity of a missile produces radial tears in ordnance gelatine, which correlate to the energy transfer. Computed tomography is a useful and non-destructive method to examine gelatine blocks. However, the tears give only few radiocontrast by air filling, which decreases with the time past shooting. Therefore, systematically, a radiocontrast material was searched to enhance the contrast. Different contrast materials were amalgamated to acryl paint, and about 7 g was sealed in a foil bag, which was integrated in the front of a standard 10% gelatine cylinder. Shots with Action-5 expanding bullets were performed from a 5-m distance. Gelatine was scanned by multi-slice computed tomography. The multiplanar reconstructed images were compared to mechanically cut slices of 1 cm thickness. It was shown experimentally that iodine containing water-soluble contrast material did not give sufficient contrast and caused diffusion artefacts. Best results were obtained by barium sulphate emulsion. The amount of acryl paint was sufficient to colour the tears for optical scanning. The radiocontrast of barium leads to satisfying imaging of tears and allowed the creation of a three-dimensional reconstruction of the temporary cavity. Comparison of optical and radiological results showed an excellent correlation, but absolute measures in computed tomographic (CT) images remained lower compared with optically gathered values in the gelatine slices. Combination of paint and contrast material for CT examination will facilitate the evaluation of complex ballistic models and increase accuracy.

Computed Tomography Inspection and Analysis for Additive Manufacturing Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beshears, Ronald D.

2017-01-01

Computed tomography (CT) inspection was performed on test articles additively manufactured from metallic materials. Metallic AM and machined wrought alloy test articles with programmed flaws and geometric features were inspected using a 2-megavolt linear accelerator based CT system. Performance of CT inspection on identically configured wrought and AM components and programmed flaws was assessed to determine the impact of additive manufacturing on inspectability of objects with complex geometries.

Differential diagnosis of endodontic-related inferior alveolar nerve paraesthesia with cone beam computed tomography: a case report.

PubMed

Gambarini, G; Plotino, G; Grande, N M; Testarelli, L; Prencipe, M; Messineo, D; Fratini, L; D'Ambrosio, F

2011-02-01

To discuss the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the differential diagnosis of a case of labiomandibular paraesthesia caused by extrusion of endodontic sealer into the mandibular canal. A 59-year-old woman suffering from a paraesthesia on the left posterior mandible and numbness on the left side of the lower lip was referred to an endodontic specialist 1 month after multiple root canal treatments. A panoramic radiograph revealed the presence of extruded root filling material beyond the apex of the mesial root of the mandibular left second molar and also beyond the apex of the first premolar. A cone beam computed tomography examination was undertaken, which confirmed the presence of radiopaque root canal filling material in the periapical area of the second molar, and revealed that the material was inside the mandibular canal. No extruded filling material was found inside the mental foramen beyond the apex of the first premolar tooth. Small field of view CBCT (where possible) can be considered an effective radiographic diagnostic device when endodontic-related inferior alveolar nerve or mental foramen paraesthesia are suspected. CBCT is able to provide detailed three-dimensional images of the tooth, the root canal system and the surrounding tissue. © 2010 International Endodontic Journal.

Comparative Evaluation of a Four-Implant-Supported Polyetherketoneketone Framework Prosthesis: A Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis Based on Cone Beam Computed Tomography and Computer-Aided Design.

PubMed

Lee, Ki-Sun; Shin, Sang-Wan; Lee, Sang-Pyo; Kim, Jong-Eun; Kim, Jee-Hwan; Lee, Jeong-Yol

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate and compare polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) with different framework materials for implant-supported prostheses by means of a three-dimensional finite element analysis (3D-FEA) based on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and computer-aided design (CAD) data. A geometric model that consisted of four maxillary implants supporting a prosthesis framework was constructed from CBCT and CAD data of a treated patient. Three different materials (zirconia, titanium, and PEKK) were selected, and their material properties were simulated using FEA software in the generated geometric model. In the PEKK framework (ie, low elastic modulus) group, the stress transferred to the implant and simulated adjacent tissue was reduced when compressive stress was dominant, but increased when tensile stress was dominant. This study suggests that the shock-absorbing effects of a resilient implant-supported framework are limited in some areas and that rigid framework material shows a favorable stress distribution and safety of overall components of the prosthesis.

Computed Tomography Inspection and Analysis for Additive Manufacturing Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beshears, Ronald D.

2016-01-01

Computed tomography (CT) inspection was performed on test articles additively manufactured from metallic materials. Metallic AM and machined wrought alloy test articles with programmed flaws were inspected using a 2MeV linear accelerator based CT system. Performance of CT inspection on identically configured wrought and AM components and programmed flaws was assessed using standard image analysis techniques to determine the impact of additive manufacturing on inspectability of objects with complex geometries.

An Extensive X-ray Computed Tomography Evaluation of a Fully Penetrated Encapsulated SiC MMC Ballistic Panel

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-04-01

An Extensive X-ray Computed Tomography Evaluation of a Fully Penetrated Encapsulated SiC MMC Ballistic Panel by William H. Green and Robert H...Panel William H. Green and Robert H. Carter Weapons and Materials Research Directorate, ARL...PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 2182040 6. AUTHOR(S) William H. Green and Robert H. Carter 5d. PROJECT NUMBER AH80 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT

THz computed tomography system with zero-order Bessel beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Liting; Wu, Qiao; Wang, Kejia; Liu, Jinsong; Yang, Zhengang

2018-01-01

Terahertz (THz) waves can penetrate many optically opaque dielectric materials such as plastics, ceramics and colorants. It is effective to reveal the internal structures of these materials. We have built a THz Computed Tomography (CT) system with 0.3 THz zero-order Bessel beam to improve the depth of focus of this imaging system for the non-diffraction property of Bessel beam. The THz CT system has been used to detect a paper cup with a metal rod inside. Finally, the acquired projection data have been processed by the filtered back-projection algorithm and the reconstructed image of the sample has been obtained.

[Dosimetric evaluation of eye lense shieldings in computed tomography examination--measurements and Monte Carlo simulations].

PubMed

Wulff, Jorg; Keil, Boris; Auvanis, Diyala; Heverhagen, Johannes T; Klose, Klaus Jochen; Zink, Klemens

2008-01-01

The present study aims at the investigation of eye lens shielding of different composition for the use in computed tomography examinations. Measurements with thermo-luminescent dosimeters and a simple cylindrical waterfilled phantom were performed as well as Monte Carlo simulations with an equivalent geometry. Besides conventional shielding made of Bismuth coated latex, a new shielding with a mixture of metallic components was analyzed. This new material leads to an increased dose reduction compared to the Bismuth shielding. Measured and Monte Carlo simulated dose reductions are in good agreement and amount to 34% for the Bismuth shielding and 46% for the new material. For simulations the EGSnrc code system was used and a new application CTDOSPP was developed for the simulation of the computed tomography examination. The investigations show that a satisfying agreement between simulation and measurement with the chosen geometries of this study could only be achieved, when transport of secondary electrons was accounted for in the simulation. The amount of scattered radiation due to the protector by fluorescent photons was analyzed and is larger for the new material due to the smaller atomic number of the metallic components.

Spent nuclear fuel assembly inspection using neutron computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pope, Chad Lee

The research presented here focuses on spent nuclear fuel assembly inspection using neutron computed tomography. Experimental measurements involving neutron beam transmission through a spent nuclear fuel assembly serve as benchmark measurements for an MCNP simulation model. Comparison of measured results to simulation results shows good agreement. Generation of tomography images from MCNP tally results was accomplished using adapted versions of built in MATLAB algorithms. Multiple fuel assembly models were examined to provide a broad set of conclusions. Tomography images revealing assembly geometric information including the fuel element lattice structure and missing elements can be obtained using high energy neutrons. A projection difference technique was developed which reveals the substitution of unirradiated fuel elements for irradiated fuel elements, using high energy neutrons. More subtle material differences such as altering the burnup of individual elements can be identified with lower energy neutrons provided the scattered neutron contribution to the image is limited. The research results show that neutron computed tomography can be used to inspect spent nuclear fuel assemblies for the purpose of identifying anomalies such as missing elements or substituted elements. The ability to identify anomalies in spent fuel assemblies can be used to deter diversion of material by increasing the risk of early detection as well as improve reprocessing facility operations by confirming the spent fuel configuration is as expected or allowing segregation if anomalies are detected.

A review of automated image understanding within 3D baggage computed tomography security screening.

PubMed

Mouton, Andre; Breckon, Toby P

2015-01-01

Baggage inspection is the principal safeguard against the transportation of prohibited and potentially dangerous materials at airport security checkpoints. Although traditionally performed by 2D X-ray based scanning, increasingly stringent security regulations have led to a growing demand for more advanced imaging technologies. The role of X-ray Computed Tomography is thus rapidly expanding beyond the traditional materials-based detection of explosives. The development of computer vision and image processing techniques for the automated understanding of 3D baggage-CT imagery is however, complicated by poor image resolutions, image clutter and high levels of noise and artefacts. We discuss the recent and most pertinent advancements and identify topics for future research within the challenging domain of automated image understanding for baggage security screening CT.

Feasibility studies on explosive detection and homeland security applications using a neutron and x-ray combined computed tomography system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinha, V.; Srivastava, A.; Lee, H. K.; Liu, X.

2013-05-01

The successful creation and operation of a neutron and X-ray combined computed tomography (NXCT) system has been demonstrated by researchers at the Missouri University of Science and Technology. The NXCT system has numerous applications in the field of material characterization and object identification in materials with a mixture of atomic numbers represented. Presently, the feasibility studies have been performed for explosive detection and homeland security applications, particularly in concealed material detection and determination of the light atomic number materials. These materials cannot be detected using traditional X-ray imaging. The new system has the capability to provide complete structural and compositional information due to the complementary nature of X-ray and neutron interactions with materials. The design of the NXCT system facilitates simultaneous and instantaneous imaging operation, promising enhanced detection capabilities of explosive materials, low atomic number materials and illicit materials for homeland security applications. In addition, a sample positioning system allowing the user to remotely and automatically manipulate the sample makes the system viable for commercial applications. Several explosives and weapon simulants have been imaged and the results are provided. The fusion algorithms which combine the data from the neutron and X-ray imaging produce superior images. This paper is a compete overview of the NXCT system for feasibility studies of explosive detection and homeland security applications. The design of the system, operation, algorithm development, and detection schemes are provided. This is the first combined neutron and X-ray computed tomography system in operation. Furthermore, the method of fusing neutron and X-ray images together is a new approach which provides high contrast images of the desired object. The system could serve as a standardized tool in nondestructive testing of many applications, especially in explosives detection and homeland security research.

Validation of a computational knee joint model using an alignment method for the knee laxity test and computed tomography.

PubMed

Kang, Kyoung-Tak; Kim, Sung-Hwan; Son, Juhyun; Lee, Young Han; Koh, Yong-Gon

2017-01-01

Computational models have been identified as efficient techniques in the clinical decision-making process. However, computational model was validated using published data in most previous studies, and the kinematic validation of such models still remains a challenge. Recently, studies using medical imaging have provided a more accurate visualization of knee joint kinematics. The purpose of the present study was to perform kinematic validation for the subject-specific computational knee joint model by comparison with subject's medical imaging under identical laxity condition. The laxity test was applied to the anterior-posterior drawer under 90° flexion and the varus-valgus under 20° flexion with a series of stress radiographs, a Telos device, and computed tomography. The loading condition in the computational subject-specific knee joint model was identical to the laxity test condition in the medical image. Our computational model showed knee laxity kinematic trends that were consistent with the computed tomography images, except for negligible differences because of the indirect application of the subject's in vivo material properties. Medical imaging based on computed tomography with the laxity test allowed us to measure not only the precise translation but also the rotation of the knee joint. This methodology will be beneficial in the validation of laxity tests for subject- or patient-specific computational models.

Broadband Terahertz Computed Tomography Using a 5k-pixel Real-time THz Camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trichopoulos, Georgios C.; Sertel, Kubilay

2015-07-01

We present a novel THz computed tomography system that enables fast 3-dimensional imaging and spectroscopy in the 0.6-1.2 THz band. The system is based on a new real-time broadband THz camera that enables rapid acquisition of multiple cross-sectional images required in computed tomography. Tomographic reconstruction is achieved using digital images from the densely-packed large-format (80×64) focal plane array sensor located behind a hyper-hemispherical silicon lens. Each pixel of the sensor array consists of an 85 μm × 92 μm lithographically fabricated wideband dual-slot antenna, monolithically integrated with an ultra-fast diode tuned to operate in the 0.6-1.2 THz regime. Concurrently, optimum impedance matching was implemented for maximum pixel sensitivity, enabling 5 frames-per-second image acquisition speed. As such, the THz computed tomography system generates diffraction-limited resolution cross-section images as well as the three-dimensional models of various opaque and partially transparent objects. As an example, an over-the-counter vitamin supplement pill is imaged and its material composition is reconstructed. The new THz camera enables, for the first time, a practical application of THz computed tomography for non-destructive evaluation and biomedical imaging.

Multi-material decomposition of spectral CT images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mendonça, Paulo R. S.; Bhotika, Rahul; Maddah, Mahnaz; Thomsen, Brian; Dutta, Sandeep; Licato, Paul E.; Joshi, Mukta C.

2010-04-01

Spectral Computed Tomography (Spectral CT), and in particular fast kVp switching dual-energy computed tomography, is an imaging modality that extends the capabilities of conventional computed tomography (CT). Spectral CT enables the estimation of the full linear attenuation curve of the imaged subject at each voxel in the CT volume, instead of a scalar image in Hounsfield units. Because the space of linear attenuation curves in the energy ranges of medical applications can be accurately described through a two-dimensional manifold, this decomposition procedure would be, in principle, limited to two materials. This paper describes an algorithm that overcomes this limitation, allowing for the estimation of N-tuples of material-decomposed images. The algorithm works by assuming that the mixing of substances and tissue types in the human body has the physicochemical properties of an ideal solution, which yields a model for the density of the imaged material mix. Under this model the mass attenuation curve of each voxel in the image can be estimated, immediately resulting in a material-decomposed image triplet. Decomposition into an arbitrary number of pre-selected materials can be achieved by automatically selecting adequate triplets from an application-specific material library. The decomposition is expressed in terms of the volume fractions of each constituent material in the mix; this provides for a straightforward, physically meaningful interpretation of the data. One important application of this technique is in the digital removal of contrast agent from a dual-energy exam, producing a virtual nonenhanced image, as well as in the quantification of the concentration of contrast observed in a targeted region, thus providing an accurate measure of tissue perfusion.

Effect of field-of-view size on gray values derived from cone-beam computed tomography compared with the Hounsfield unit values from multidetector computed tomography scans

PubMed Central

Shokri, Abbas; Bidgoli, Mohsen; Akbarzadeh, Mahdi; Ghazikhanlu-Sani, Karim; Fallahi-Sichani, Hamed

2018-01-01

Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the effect of field-of-view (FOV) size on the gray values derived from conebeam computed tomography (CBCT) compared with the Hounsfield unit values from multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) scans as the gold standard. Materials and Methods A radiographic phantom was designed with 4 acrylic cylinders. One cylinder was filled with distilled water, and the other 3 were filled with 3 types of bone substitute: namely, Nanobone, Cenobone, and Cerabone. The phantom was scanned with 2 CBCT systems using 2 different FOV sizes, and 1 MDCT system was used as the gold standard. The mean gray values (MGVs) of each cylinder were calculated in each imaging protocol. Results In both CBCT systems, significant differences were noted in the MGVs of all materials between the 2 FOV sizes (P<.05) except for Cerabone in the Cranex3D system. Significant differences were found in the MGVs of each material compared with the others in both FOV sizes for each CBCT system. No significant difference was seen between the Cranex3D CBCT system and the MDCT system in the MGVs of bone substitutes on images obtained with a small FOV. Conclusion The size of the FOV significantly changed the MGVs of all bone substitutes, except for Cerabone in the Cranex3D system. Both CBCT systems had the ability to distinguish the 3 types of bone substitutes based on a comparison of their MGVs. The Cranex3D CBCT system used with a small FOV had a significant correlation with MDCT results. PMID:29581947

A hyperspectral X-ray computed tomography system for enhanced material identification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xiaomei; Wang, Qian; Ma, Jinlei; Zhang, Wei; Li, Po; Fang, Zheng

2017-08-01

X-ray computed tomography (CT) can distinguish different materials according to their absorption characteristics. The hyperspectral X-ray CT (HXCT) system proposed in the present work reconstructs each voxel according to its X-ray absorption spectral characteristics. In contrast to a dual-energy or multi-energy CT system, HXCT employs cadmium telluride (CdTe) as the x-ray detector, which provides higher spectral resolution and separate spectral lines according to the material's photon-counter working principle. In this paper, a specimen containing ten different polymer materials randomly arranged was adopted for material identification by HXCT. The filtered back-projection algorithm was applied for image and spectral reconstruction. The first step was to sort the individual material components of the specimen according to their cross-sectional image intensity. The second step was to classify materials with similar intensities according to their reconstructed spectral characteristics. The results demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed material identification process and indicated that the proposed HXCT system has good prospects for a wide range of biomedical and industrial nondestructive testing applications.

Radiolabeling, whole-body single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography imaging, and pharmacokinetics of carbon nanohorns in mice

PubMed Central

Zhang, Minfang; Jasim, Dhifaf A; Ménard-Moyon, Cécilia; Nunes, Antonio; Iijima, Sumio; Bianco, Alberto; Yudasaka, Masako; Kostarelos, Kostas

2016-01-01

In this work, we report that the biodistribution and excretion of carbon nanohorns (CNHs) in mice are dependent on their size and functionalization. Small-sized CNHs (30–50 nm; S-CNHs) and large-sized CNHs (80–100 nm; L-CNHs) were chemically functionalized and radiolabeled with [111In]-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid and intravenously injected into mice. Their tissue distribution profiles at different time points were determined by single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography. The results showed that the S-CNHs circulated longer in blood, while the L-CNHs accumulated faster in major organs like the liver and spleen. Small amounts of S-CNHs- and L-CNHs were excreted in urine within the first few hours postinjection, followed by excretion of smaller quantities within the next 48 hours in both urine and feces. The kinetics of excretion for S-CNHs were more rapid than for L-CNHs. Both S-CNH and L-CNH material accumulated mainly in the liver and spleen; however, S-CNH accumulation in the spleen was more prominent than in the liver. PMID:27524892

Digital algorithm for dispersion correction in optical coherence tomography for homogeneous and stratified media.

PubMed

Marks, Daniel L; Oldenburg, Amy L; Reynolds, J Joshua; Boppart, Stephen A

2003-01-10

The resolution of optical coherence tomography (OCT) often suffers from blurring caused by material dispersion. We present a numerical algorithm for computationally correcting the effect of material dispersion on OCT reflectance data for homogeneous and stratified media. This is experimentally demonstrated by correcting the image of a polydimethyl siloxane microfludic structure and of glass slides. The algorithm can be implemented using the fast Fourier transform. With broad spectral bandwidths and highly dispersive media or thick objects, dispersion correction becomes increasingly important.

Digital Algorithm for Dispersion Correction in Optical Coherence Tomography for Homogeneous and Stratified Media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marks, Daniel L.; Oldenburg, Amy L.; Reynolds, J. Joshua; Boppart, Stephen A.

2003-01-01

The resolution of optical coherence tomography (OCT) often suffers from blurring caused by material dispersion. We present a numerical algorithm for computationally correcting the effect of material dispersion on OCT reflectance data for homogeneous and stratified media. This is experimentally demonstrated by correcting the image of a polydimethyl siloxane microfludic structure and of glass slides. The algorithm can be implemented using the fast Fourier transform. With broad spectral bandwidths and highly dispersive media or thick objects, dispersion correction becomes increasingly important.

The utility of postmortem computed tomography selective coronary angiography in parallel with autopsy.

PubMed

Inokuchi, Go; Yajima, Daisuke; Hayakawa, Mutsumi; Motomura, Ayumi; Chiba, Fumiko; Torimitsu, Suguru; Makino, Yohsuke; Iwase, Hirotaro

2013-12-01

Historically, coronary angiography of the isolated heart has played an important role in the detection of stenotic or occlusive lesions that are difficult to identify by autopsy alone. Meanwhile, although the application of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) to forensic fields has accelerated recently, isolated single organ angiography with MDCT is rarely performed. In this article, we present an evaluation of postmortem selective coronary CT angiography of the isolated heart with MDCT and discuss its utility for autopsy. First, in a preliminary experiment using pig coronary artery, we examined the behavior of water soluble contrast material on postmortem computed tomography angiography (PMCTA) and found that better angiographic images were acquired when the viscosity of the contrast material was increased and CT was performed under conditions of sustained perfusion. Based on these results, we devised a selective coronary angiography procedure using a pressurized bag for drip infusion that can be performed easily, quickly, and at low cost. The angiographic images obtained provided useful supportive evidence of autopsy findings suggestive of ischemic heart disease. With active discussions underway in forensic fields on the proper use of postmortem computed tomography, PMCTA has also naturally attracted attention as it compensates for some of the shortcomings of CT alone. Although PMCTA typically involves whole-body angiography, if we view PMCTA as one of the many useful and supplementary tools available for autopsy, then isolated heart angiography continues to have utility in autopsy today.

Pulmonary infection caused by Mycobacterium kansasii: findings on computed tomography of the chest*

PubMed Central

Mogami, Roberto; Goldenberg, Telma; de Marca, Patricia Gomes Cytrangulo; Mello, Fernanda Carvalho de Queiroz; Lopes, Agnaldo José

2016-01-01

Objective To describe the main tomography findings in patients diagnosed with pulmonary infection caused by Mycobacterium kansasii. Materials and Methods Retrospective study of computed tomography scans of 19 patients with pulmonary infection by M. kansasii. Results Of the 19 patients evaluated, 10 (52.6%) were male and 9 (47.4%) were female. The mean age of the patients was 58 years (range, 33-76 years). Computed tomography findings were as follows: architectural distortion, in 17 patients (89.5%); reticular opacities and bronchiectasis, in 16 (84.2%); cavities, in 14 (73.7%); centrilobular nodules, in 13 (68.4%); small consolidations, in 10 (52.6%); atelectasis and large consolidations, in 9 (47.4%); subpleural blebs and emphysema, in 6 (31.6%); and adenopathy, in 1 (5.3%). Conclusion There was a predominance of cavities, as well as of involvement of the small and large airways. The airway disease was characterized by bronchiectasis and bronchiolitis presenting as centrilobular nodules. PMID:27777472

Comparison of lens- and fiber-coupled CCD detectors for X-ray computed tomography

PubMed Central

Uesugi, K.; Hoshino, M.; Yagi, N.

2011-01-01

X-ray imaging detectors with an identical phosphor and a CCD chip but employing lens- and fiber-coupling between them have been compared. These are designed for X-ray imaging experiments, especially computed tomography, at the medium-length beamline at the SPring-8 synchrotron radiation facility. It was found that the transmittance of light to the CCD is about four times higher in the fiber-coupled detector. The uniformity of response in the lens-coupled detector has a global shading of up to 40%, while pixel-to-pixel variation owing to a chicken-wire pattern was dominant in the fiber-coupled detector. Apart from the higher transmittance, the fiber-coupled detector has a few characteristics that require attention when it is used for computed tomography, which are browning of the fiber, discontinuity in the image, image distortion, and dark spots in the chicken-wire pattern. Thus, it is most suitable for high-speed tomography of samples that tend to deform, for example biological and soft materials. PMID:21335908

Computed 3D visualisation of an extinct cephalopod using computer tomographs.

PubMed

Lukeneder, Alexander

2012-08-01

The first 3D visualisation of a heteromorph cephalopod species from the Southern Alps (Dolomites, northern Italy) is presented. Computed tomography, palaeontological data and 3D reconstructions were included in the production of a movie, which shows a life reconstruction of the extinct organism. This detailed reconstruction is according to the current knowledge of the shape and mode of life as well as habitat of this animal. The results are based on the most complete shell known thus far of the genus Dissimilites . Object-based combined analyses from computed tomography and various computed 3D facility programmes help to understand morphological details as well as their ontogentical changes in fossil material. In this study, an additional goal was to show changes in locomotion during different ontogenetic phases of such fossil, marine shell-bearing animals (ammonoids). Hence, the presented models and tools can serve as starting points for discussions on morphology and locomotion of extinct cephalopods in general, and of the genus Dissimilites in particular. The heteromorph ammonoid genus Dissimilites is interpreted here as an active swimmer of the Tethyan Ocean. This study portrays non-destructive methods of 3D visualisation applied on palaeontological material, starting with computed tomography resulting in animated, high-quality video clips. The here presented 3D geometrical models and animation, which are based on palaeontological material, demonstrate the wide range of applications, analytical techniques and also outline possible limitations of 3D models in earth sciences and palaeontology. The realistic 3D models and motion pictures can easily be shared amongst palaeontologists. Data, images and short clips can be discussed online and, if necessary, adapted in morphological details and motion-style to better represent the cephalopod animal.

Computed 3D visualisation of an extinct cephalopod using computer tomographs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lukeneder, Alexander

2012-08-01

The first 3D visualisation of a heteromorph cephalopod species from the Southern Alps (Dolomites, northern Italy) is presented. Computed tomography, palaeontological data and 3D reconstructions were included in the production of a movie, which shows a life reconstruction of the extinct organism. This detailed reconstruction is according to the current knowledge of the shape and mode of life as well as habitat of this animal. The results are based on the most complete shell known thus far of the genus Dissimilites. Object-based combined analyses from computed tomography and various computed 3D facility programmes help to understand morphological details as well as their ontogentical changes in fossil material. In this study, an additional goal was to show changes in locomotion during different ontogenetic phases of such fossil, marine shell-bearing animals (ammonoids). Hence, the presented models and tools can serve as starting points for discussions on morphology and locomotion of extinct cephalopods in general, and of the genus Dissimilites in particular. The heteromorph ammonoid genus Dissimilites is interpreted here as an active swimmer of the Tethyan Ocean. This study portrays non-destructive methods of 3D visualisation applied on palaeontological material, starting with computed tomography resulting in animated, high-quality video clips. The here presented 3D geometrical models and animation, which are based on palaeontological material, demonstrate the wide range of applications, analytical techniques and also outline possible limitations of 3D models in earth sciences and palaeontology. The realistic 3D models and motion pictures can easily be shared amongst palaeontologists. Data, images and short clips can be discussed online and, if necessary, adapted in morphological details and motion-style to better represent the cephalopod animal.

Computed 3D visualisation of an extinct cephalopod using computer tomographs

PubMed Central

Lukeneder, Alexander

2012-01-01

The first 3D visualisation of a heteromorph cephalopod species from the Southern Alps (Dolomites, northern Italy) is presented. Computed tomography, palaeontological data and 3D reconstructions were included in the production of a movie, which shows a life reconstruction of the extinct organism. This detailed reconstruction is according to the current knowledge of the shape and mode of life as well as habitat of this animal. The results are based on the most complete shell known thus far of the genus Dissimilites. Object-based combined analyses from computed tomography and various computed 3D facility programmes help to understand morphological details as well as their ontogentical changes in fossil material. In this study, an additional goal was to show changes in locomotion during different ontogenetic phases of such fossil, marine shell-bearing animals (ammonoids). Hence, the presented models and tools can serve as starting points for discussions on morphology and locomotion of extinct cephalopods in general, and of the genus Dissimilites in particular. The heteromorph ammonoid genus Dissimilites is interpreted here as an active swimmer of the Tethyan Ocean. This study portrays non-destructive methods of 3D visualisation applied on palaeontological material, starting with computed tomography resulting in animated, high-quality video clips. The here presented 3D geometrical models and animation, which are based on palaeontological material, demonstrate the wide range of applications, analytical techniques and also outline possible limitations of 3D models in earth sciences and palaeontology. The realistic 3D models and motion pictures can easily be shared amongst palaeontologists. Data, images and short clips can be discussed online and, if necessary, adapted in morphological details and motion-style to better represent the cephalopod animal. PMID:24850976

XDesign: an open-source software package for designing X-ray imaging phantoms and experiments.

PubMed

Ching, Daniel J; Gürsoy, Dogˇa

2017-03-01

The development of new methods or utilization of current X-ray computed tomography methods is impeded by the substantial amount of expertise required to design an X-ray computed tomography experiment from beginning to end. In an attempt to make material models, data acquisition schemes and reconstruction algorithms more accessible to researchers lacking expertise in some of these areas, a software package is described here which can generate complex simulated phantoms and quantitatively evaluate new or existing data acquisition schemes and image reconstruction algorithms for targeted applications.

XDesign: An open-source software package for designing X-ray imaging phantoms and experiments

DOE PAGES

Ching, Daniel J.; Gursoy, Dogˇa

2017-02-21

Here, the development of new methods or utilization of current X-ray computed tomography methods is impeded by the substantial amount of expertise required to design an X-ray computed tomography experiment from beginning to end. In an attempt to make material models, data acquisition schemes and reconstruction algorithms more accessible to researchers lacking expertise in some of these areas, a software package is described here which can generate complex simulated phantoms and quantitatively evaluate new or existing data acquisition schemes and image reconstruction algorithms for targeted applications.

Early diagnosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome by computed tomography and ultrasonography: report of five cases

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baert, A.L.; Fevery, J.; Marchal, G.

1983-03-01

In 5 patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome, computed tomography after intravenous bolus injection of iodinated contrast agents demonstrated images not previously seen in other diseases. The images are compatible with stagnation of contrast material at the periphery of the liver. In 3 of the 5 cases, grey-scale ultrasonography failed to document the normal hepatic veins draining into the inferior caval vein, but showed an intrahepatic network of comma-shaped venous structures. It is proposed that these two noninvasive approaches can help in establishing an early diagnosis.

Computed tomography of infantile hepatic hemangioendothelioma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lucaya, J.; Enriquez, G.; Amat, L.

1985-04-01

Computed tomography (CT) was performed on five infants with hepatic hemangioendothelioma. Precontrast scans showed solitary or multiple, homogeneous, circumscribed areas with reduced attenuation values. Tiny tumoral calcifications were identified in two patients. Serial scans, after injection of a bolus of contrast material, showed early massive enhancement, which was either diffuse or peripheral. On delayed scans, multinocular tumors became isodense with surrounding liver, while all solitary ones showed varied degrees of centripetal enhancement and persistent central cleftlike unenhanced areas. The authors believe that these CT features are characteristic and obviate arteriographic confirmation.

Spiral computed tomography assessment of the efficacy of different rotary versus hand retreatment system.

PubMed

Mittal, Neelam; Jain, Jyoti

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of nickel-titanium rotary retreatment systems versus stainless steel hand retreatment system with or without solvent for gutta-percha removal during retreatment. Sixty extracted human mandibular molar teeth with single canal in a distal root was prepared with ProTaper rotary nickel-titanium files and obturated with gutta-percha and sealer. The teeth were randomly divided into six groups of 10 specimens in each groups. The volume of filling material before and after retreatment were evaluated in cm(3) using the computed tomography (CT) scanner proprietary software. Maximum amount of filling material removed during retreatment with ProTaper retreatment system with solvent and minimum with hand retreatment system with solvent. None of the technique was 100% effective in removing the filling materials, but the ProTaper retreatment system with solvent was better.

Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Phantom Fabrication and Characterization through the Tailored Properties of Polymeric Composites and Cellular Foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoy, Carlton F. O.

The overall objective of this thesis was to control the fabrication technique and relevant material properties for phantom devices designated for computed tomography (CT) scanning. Fabrication techniques using polymeric composites and foams were detailed together with parametric studies outlining the fundamentals behind the changes in material properties which affect the characteristic CT number. The composites fabricated used polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polyethylene (PE) with hydroxylapatite (hA) as additive with different composites made by means of different weight percentages of additive. Polymeric foams were fabricated through a batch foaming technique with the heating time controlled to create different levels of foams. Finally, the effect of fabricated phantoms under varied scanning media was assessed to determine whether self-made phantoms can be scanned accurately under non-water or rigid environments allowing for the future development of complex shaped or fragile material types.

Meso-scale framework for modeling granular material using computed tomography

DOE PAGES

Turner, Anne K.; Kim, Felix H.; Penumadu, Dayakar; ...

2016-03-17

Numerical modeling of unconsolidated granular materials is comprised of multiple nonlinear phenomena. Accurately capturing these phenomena, including grain deformation and intergranular forces depends on resolving contact regions several orders of magnitude smaller than the grain size. Here, we investigate a method for capturing the morphology of the individual particles using computed X-ray and neutron tomography, which allows for accurate characterization of the interaction between grains. The ability of these numerical approaches to determine stress concentrations at grain contacts is important in order to capture catastrophic splitting of individual grains, which has been shown to play a key role in themore » plastic behavior of the granular material on the continuum level. Discretization approaches, including mesh refinement and finite element type selection are presented to capture high stress concentrations at contact points between grains. The effect of a grain’s coordination number on the stress concentrations is also investigated.« less

Computed tomography of radioactive objects and materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sawicka, B. D.; Murphy, R. V.; Tosello, G.; Reynolds, P. W.; Romaniszyn, T.

1990-12-01

Computed tomography (CT) has been performed on a number of radioactive objects and materials. Several unique technical problems are associated with CT of radioactive specimens. These include general safety considerations, techniques to reduce background-radiation effects on CT images and selection criteria for the CT source to permit object penetration and to reveal accurate values of material density. In the present paper, three groups of experiments will be described, for objects with low, medium and high levels of radioactivity. CT studies on radioactive specimens will be presented. They include the following: (1) examination of individual ceramic reactor-fuel (uranium dioxide) pellets, (2) examination of fuel samples from the Three Mile Island reactor, (3) examination of a CANDU (CANada Deuterium Uraniun: registered trademark) nuclear-fuel bundle which underwent a simulated loss-of-coolant accident resulting in high-temperature damage and (4) examination of a PWR nuclear-reactor fuel assembly.

Fluorescent x-ray computed tomography with synchrotron radiation using fan collimator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeda, Tohoru; Akiba, Masahiro; Yuasa, Tetsuya; Kazama, Masahiro; Hoshino, Atsunori; Watanabe, Yuuki; Hyodo, Kazuyuki; Dilmanian, F. Avraham; Akatsuka, Takao; Itai, Yuji

1996-04-01

We describe a new system of fluorescent x-ray computed tomography applied to image nonradioactive contrast materials in vivo. The system operates on the basis of computed tomography (CT) of the first generation. The experiment was also simulated using the Monte Carlo method. The research was carried out at the BLNE-5A bending-magnet beam line of the Tristan Accumulation Ring in Kek, Japan. An acrylic cylindrical phantom containing five paraxial channels of 5 and 4 mm diameters was imaged. The channels were filled with a diluted iodine-based contrast material, with iodine concentrations of 2 mg/ml and 500 (mu) g/ml. Spectra obtained with the system's high purity germanium (HPGe) detector separated clearly the K(alpha ) and K(beta 1) x-ray fluorescent lines, and the Compton scattering. CT images were reconstructed from projections generated by integrating the counts in these spectral lines. The method had adequate sensitivity and detection power, as shown by the experiment and predicted by the simulations, to show the iodine content of the phantom channels, which corresponded to 1 and 4 (mu) g iodine content per pixel in the reconstructed images.

Ultrasonic tomography for in-process measurements of temperature in a multi-phase medium

DOEpatents

Beller, Laurence S.

1993-01-01

A method and apparatus for the in-process measurement of internal particulate temperature utilizing ultrasonic tomography techniques to determine the speed of sound through a specimen material. Ultrasonic pulses are transmitted through a material, which can be a multi-phase material, over known flight paths and the ultrasonic pulse transit times through all sectors of the specimen are measured to determine the speed of sound. The speed of sound being a function of temperature, it is possible to establish the correlation between speed of sound and temperature, throughout a cross-section of the material, which correlation is programmed into a computer to provide for a continuous in-process measurement of temperature throughout the specimen.

FDG-PET/CT in the evaluation of anal carcinoma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cotter, Shane E.; Medical Scientist Training Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; Grigsby, Perry W.

2006-07-01

Purpose: Surgical staging and treatment of anal carcinoma has been replaced by noninvasive staging studies and combined modality therapy. In this study, we compare computed tomography (CT) and physical examination to [{sup 18}F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) in the staging of carcinoma of the anal canal, with special emphasis on determination of spread to inguinal lymph nodes. Methods and Materials: Between July 2003 and July 2005, 41 consecutive patients with biopsy-proved anal carcinoma underwent a complete staging evaluation including physical examination, CT, and 2-FDG-PET/CT. Patients ranged in age from 30 to 89 years. Nine men were HIV-positive. Treatment was withmore » standard Nigro regimen. Results: [{sup 18}F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) detected 91% of nonexcised primary tumors, whereas CT visualized 59%. FDG-PET/CT detected abnormal uptake in pelvic nodes of 5 patients with normal pelvic CT scans. FDG-PET/CT detected abnormal nodes in 20% of groins that were normal by CT, and in 23% without abnormality on physical examination. Furthermore, 17% of groins negative by both CT and physical examination showed abnormal uptake on FDG-PET/CT. HIV-positive patients had an increased frequency of PET-positive lymph nodes. Conclusion: [{sup 18}F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography detects the primary tumor more often than CT. FDG-PET/CT detects substantially more abnormal inguinal lymph nodes than are identified by standard clinical staging with CT and physical examination.« less

How Well Does Dual-Energy Computed Tomography With Metal Artifact Reduction Software Improve Image Quality and Quantify Computed Tomography Number and Iodine Concentration?

PubMed

Ohira, Shingo; Kanayama, Naoyuki; Wada, Kentaro; Karino, Tsukasa; Nitta, Yuya; Ueda, Yoshihiro; Miyazaki, Masayoshi; Koizumi, Masahiko; Teshima, Teruki

2018-04-02

The objective of this study was to assess the accuracy of the quantitative measurements obtained using dual-energy computed tomography with metal artifact reduction software (MARS). Dual-energy computed tomography scans (fast kV-switching) are performed on a phantom, by varying the number of metal rods (Ti and Pb) and reference iodine materials. Objective and subjective image analyses are performed on retroreconstructed virtual monochromatic images (VMIs) (VMI at 70 keV). The maximum artifact indices for VMI-Ti and VMI-Pb (5 metal rods) with MARS (without MARS) were 17.4 (166.7) and 34.6 (810.6), respectively; MARS significantly improved the mean subjective 5-point score (P < 0.05). The maximum differences between the measured Hounsfield unit and theoretical values for 5 mg/mL iodine and 2-mm core rods were -42.2% and -68.5%, for VMI-Ti and VMI-Pb (5 metal rods), respectively, and the corresponding differences in the iodine concentration were -64.7% and -73.0%, respectively. Metal artifact reduction software improved the objective and subjective image quality; however, the quantitative values were underestimated.

Deep convolutional neural networks for estimating porous material parameters with ultrasound tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lähivaara, Timo; Kärkkäinen, Leo; Huttunen, Janne M. J.; Hesthaven, Jan S.

2018-02-01

We study the feasibility of data based machine learning applied to ultrasound tomography to estimate water-saturated porous material parameters. In this work, the data to train the neural networks is simulated by solving wave propagation in coupled poroviscoelastic-viscoelastic-acoustic media. As the forward model, we consider a high-order discontinuous Galerkin method while deep convolutional neural networks are used to solve the parameter estimation problem. In the numerical experiment, we estimate the material porosity and tortuosity while the remaining parameters which are of less interest are successfully marginalized in the neural networks-based inversion. Computational examples confirms the feasibility and accuracy of this approach.

Combined micro computed tomography and histology study of bone augmentation and distraction osteogenesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilgenstein, Bernd; Deyhle, Hans; Jaquiery, Claude; Kunz, Christoph; Stalder, Anja; Stübinger, Stefan; Jundt, Gernot; Beckmann, Felix; Müller, Bert; Hieber, Simone E.

2012-10-01

Bone augmentation is a vital part of surgical interventions of the oral and maxillofacial area including dental implantology. Prior to implant placement, sufficient bone volume is needed to reduce the risk of peri-implantitis. While augmentation using harvested autologous bone is still considered as gold standard, many surgeons prefer bone substitutes to reduce operation time and to avoid donor site morbidity. To assess the osteogenic efficacy of commercially available augmentation materials we analyzed drill cores extracted before implant insertion. In younger patients, distraction osteogenesis is successfully applied to correct craniofacial deformities through targeted bone formation. To study the influence of mesenchymal stem cells on bone regeneration during distraction osteogenesis, human mesenchymal stem cells were injected into the distraction gap of nude rat mandibles immediately after osteotomy. The distraction was performed over eleven days to reach a distraction gap of 6 mm. Both the rat mandibles and the drill cores were scanned using synchrotron radiation-based micro computed tomography. The three-dimensional data were manually registered and compared with corresponding two-dimensional histological sections to assess bone regeneration and its morphology. The analysis of the rat mandibles indicates that bone formation is enhanced by mesenchymal stem cells injected before distraction. The bone substitutes yielded a wide range of bone volume and degree of resorption. The volume fraction of the newly formed bone was determined to 34.4% in the computed tomography dataset for the augmentation material Geistlich Bio-Oss®. The combination of computed tomography and histology allowed a complementary assessment for both bone augmentation and distraction osteogenesis.

Effect of field-of-view size on gray values derived from cone-beam computed tomography compared with the Hounsfield unit values from multidetector computed tomography scans.

PubMed

Shokri, Abbas; Ramezani, Leila; Bidgoli, Mohsen; Akbarzadeh, Mahdi; Ghazikhanlu-Sani, Karim; Fallahi-Sichani, Hamed

2018-03-01

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of field-of-view (FOV) size on the gray values derived from conebeam computed tomography (CBCT) compared with the Hounsfield unit values from multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) scans as the gold standard. A radiographic phantom was designed with 4 acrylic cylinders. One cylinder was filled with distilled water, and the other 3 were filled with 3 types of bone substitute: namely, Nanobone, Cenobone, and Cerabone. The phantom was scanned with 2 CBCT systems using 2 different FOV sizes, and 1 MDCT system was used as the gold standard. The mean gray values (MGVs) of each cylinder were calculated in each imaging protocol. In both CBCT systems, significant differences were noted in the MGVs of all materials between the 2 FOV sizes ( P <.05) except for Cerabone in the Cranex3D system. Significant differences were found in the MGVs of each material compared with the others in both FOV sizes for each CBCT system. No significant difference was seen between the Cranex3D CBCT system and the MDCT system in the MGVs of bone substitutes on images obtained with a small FOV. The size of the FOV significantly changed the MGVs of all bone substitutes, except for Cerabone in the Cranex3D system. Both CBCT systems had the ability to distinguish the 3 types of bone substitutes based on a comparison of their MGVs. The Cranex3D CBCT system used with a small FOV had a significant correlation with MDCT results.

Adaptive noise correction of dual-energy computed tomography images.

PubMed

Maia, Rafael Simon; Jacob, Christian; Hara, Amy K; Silva, Alvin C; Pavlicek, William; Mitchell, J Ross

2016-04-01

Noise reduction in material density images is a necessary preprocessing step for the correct interpretation of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) images. In this paper we describe a new method based on a local adaptive processing to reduce noise in DECT images An adaptive neighborhood Wiener (ANW) filter was implemented and customized to use local characteristics of material density images. The ANW filter employs a three-level wavelet approach, combined with the application of an anisotropic diffusion filter. Material density images and virtual monochromatic images are noise corrected with two resulting noise maps. The algorithm was applied and quantitatively evaluated in a set of 36 images. From that set of images, three are shown here, and nine more are shown in the online supplementary material. Processed images had higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) than the raw material density images. The average improvements in SNR and CNR for the material density images were 56.5 and 54.75%, respectively. We developed a new DECT noise reduction algorithm. We demonstrate throughout a series of quantitative analyses that the algorithm improves the quality of material density images and virtual monochromatic images.

Ceftriaxone-associated pancreatitis captured on serial computed tomography scans.

PubMed

Nakagawa, Nozomu; Ochi, Nobuaki; Yamane, Hiromichi; Honda, Yoshihiro; Nagasaki, Yasunari; Urata, Noriyo; Nakanishi, Hidekazu; Kawamoto, Hirofumi; Takigawa, Nagio

2018-02-01

A 74-year-old man was treated with ceftriaxone for 5 days and subsequently experienced epigastric pain. Computed tomography (CT) was performed 7 and 3 days before epigastralgia. Although the first CT image revealed no radiographic signs in his biliary system, the second CT image revealed dense radiopaque material in the gallbladder lumen. The third CT image, taken at symptom onset, showed high density in the common bile duct and enlargement of the pancreatic head. This is a very rare case of pseudolithiasis involving the common bile duct, as captured on a series of CT images.

Feasibility study for mega-electron-volt electron beam tomography.

PubMed

Hampel, U; Bärtling, Y; Hoppe, D; Kuksanov, N; Fadeev, S; Salimov, R

2012-09-01

Electron beam tomography is a promising imaging modality for the study of fast technical processes. But for many technical objects of interest x rays of several hundreds of keV energy are required to achieve sufficient material penetration. In this article we report on a feasibility study for fast electron beam computed tomography with a 1 MeV electron beam. The experimental setup comprises an electrostatic accelerator with beam optics, transmission target, and a single x-ray detector. We employed an inverse fan-beam tomography approach with radiographic projections being generated from the linearly moving x-ray source. Angular projections were obtained by rotating the object.

Ultrasonic tomography for in-process measurements of temperature in a multi-phase medium

DOEpatents

Beller, L.S.

1993-01-26

A method and apparatus are described for the in-process measurement of internal particulate temperature utilizing ultrasonic tomography techniques to determine the speed of sound through a specimen material. Ultrasonic pulses are transmitted through a material, which can be a multi-phase material, over known flight paths and the ultrasonic pulse transit times through all sectors of the specimen are measured to determine the speed of sound. The speed of sound being a function of temperature, it is possible to establish the correlation between speed of sound and temperature, throughout a cross-section of the material, which correlation is programmed into a computer to provide for a continuous in-process measurement of temperature throughout the specimen.

Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography (PET/CT)

MedlinePlus

... A-Z Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography (PET/CT) Positron emission tomography (PET) uses small amounts of ... What is Positron Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography (PET/CT) Scanning? Positron emission tomography, also called PET imaging ...

Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)

MedlinePlus

... coronary arteries, may also be administered as a tablet or spray underneath your tongue. While lying on ... the scanner at one time such as with MRI. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you ...

Ceramic and polymeric dental onlays evaluated by photo-elasticity, optical coherence tomography, and micro-computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinescu, Cosmin; Negrutiu, Meda; Topala, Florin; Ionita, Ciprian; Negru, Radu; Fabriky, Mihai; Marcauteanu, Corina; Bradu, Adrian; Dobre, George; Marsavina, Liviu; Rominu, Mihai; Podoleanu, Adrian

2011-10-01

Dental onlays are restorations used to repair rear teeth that have a mild to moderate amount of decay. They can also be used to restore teeth that are cracked or fractured if the damage is not severe enough to require a dental crown. The use of onlays requires less tooth reduction than does the use of metal fillings. This allows dentists to conserve more of a patient's natural tooth structure in the treatment process. The aims of this study are to evaluate the biomechanical comportment of the dental onlays, by using the 3D photo elasticity method and to investigate the integrity of the structures and their fitting to the dental support. For this optical coherence tomography and micro-computed tomography were employed. Both methods were used to investigate 37 dental onlays, 17 integral polymeric and 20 integral ceramic. The results permit to observe materials defects inside the ceramic or polymeric onlays situate in the biomechanically tensioned areas that could lead to fracture of the prosthetic structure. Marginal fitting problems of the onlays related to the teeth preparations were presented in order to observe the possibility of secondary cavities. The resulted images from the optical coherence tomography were verified by the micro-computed tomography. In conclusion, the optical coherence tomography can be used as a clinical method in order to evaluate the integrity of the dental ceramic and polymeric onlays and to investigate the quality of the marginal fitting to the teeth preparations.

The effects of different restorative materials on the detection of approximal caries in cone-beam computed tomography scans with and without metal artifact reduction mode.

PubMed

Cebe, Fatma; Aktan, Ali Murat; Ozsevik, Abdul Semih; Ciftci, Mehmet Ertugrul; Surmelioglu, Hatice Derya

2017-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of artifacts produced by different restorative materials on the detection of approximal caries in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans with and without the application of an artifact-reduction (AR) option. Ninety-eight noncavitated premolar and molar teeth were placed with approximal contacts consisting of 2 sound or carious teeth and 1 mesial-occlusal-distal restored tooth with resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (RMGIC), amalgam, composite, ceramic-based composite (CBC), or computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) zirconia materials in between. The teeth were scanned with a CBCT system with and without the AR option. Images were evaluated by 2 observers. The teeth were histologically evaluated, and sensitivity, specificity, and areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were calculated according to the appropriate threshold. Specificity and sensitivity values for contact surfaces ranged from 0-48.39 and 82.93-98.40, respectively. The AR option affected (P < .05) approximal caries detection of the amalgam, composite, CAD-CAM, and CBC groups in contact surfaces and composite and RMGIC groups in noncontact surfaces. Artifacts produced by different restorative materials could affect approximal caries detection in CBCT scans. Use of the AR option with CBCT scans increases the accuracy of approximal caries detection. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

New Developments and Geoscience Applications of Synchrotron Computed Microtomography (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rivers, M. L.; Wang, Y.; Newville, M.; Sutton, S. R.; Yu, T.; Lanzirotti, A.

2013-12-01

Computed microtomography is the extension to micron spatial resolution of the CAT scanning technique developed for medical imaging. Synchrotron sources are ideal for the method, since they provide a monochromatic, parallel beam with high intensity. High energy storage rings such as the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory produce x-rays with high energy, high brilliance, and high coherence. All of these factors combine to produce an extremely powerful imaging tool for earth science research. Techniques that have been developed include: - Absorption and phase contrast computed tomography with spatial resolution below one micron. - Differential contrast computed tomography, imaging above and below the absorption edge of a particular element. - High-pressure tomography, imaging inside a pressure cell at pressures above 10GPa. - High speed radiography and tomography, with 100 microsecond temporal resolution. - Fluorescence tomography, imaging the 3-D distribution of elements present at ppm concentrations. - Radiographic strain measurements during deformation at high confining pressure, combined with precise x-ray diffraction measurements to determine stress. These techniques have been applied to important problems in earth and environmental sciences, including: - The 3-D distribution of aqueous and organic liquids in porous media, with applications in contaminated groundwater and petroleum recovery. - The kinetics of bubble formation in magma chambers, which control explosive volcanism. - Studies of the evolution of the early solar system from 3-D textures in meteorites - Accurate crystal size distributions in volcanic systems, important for understanding the evolution of magma chambers. - The equation-of-state of amorphous materials at high pressure using both direct measurements of volume as a function of pressure and also by measuring the change x-ray absorption coefficient as a function of pressure. - The location and chemical speciation of toxic elements such as arsenic and nickel in soils and in plant tissues in contaminated Superfund sites. - The strength of earth materials under the pressure and temperature conditions of the Earth's mantle, providing insights into plate tectonics and the generation of earthquakes.

Quantification of Wear and Deformation in Different Configurations of Polyethylene Acetabular Cups Using Micro X-ray Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Affatato, Saverio; Zanini, Filippo; Carmignato, Simone

2017-01-01

Wear is currently quantified as mass loss of the bearing materials measured using gravimetric methods. However, this method does not provide other information, such as volumetric loss or surface deviation. In this work, we validated a technique to quantify polyethylene wear in three different batches of ultrahigh-molecular-polyethylene acetabular cups used for hip implants using nondestructive microcomputed tomography. Three different configurations of polyethylene acetabular cups, previously tested under the ISO 14242 parameters, were tested on a hip simulator for an additional 2 million cycles using a modified ISO 14242 load waveform. In this context, a new approach was proposed in order to simulate, on a hip joint simulator, high-demand activities. In addition, the effects of these activities were analyzed in terms of wear and deformations of those polyethylenes by means of gravimetric method and micro X-ray computed tomography. In particular, while the gravimetric method was used for weight loss assessment, microcomputed tomography allowed for acquisition of additional quantitative information about the evolution of local wear and deformation through three-dimensional surface deviation maps for the entire cups’ surface. Experimental results showed that the wear and deformation behavior of these materials change according to different mechanical simulations. PMID:28772616

Three-dimensional monochromatic x-ray computed tomography using synchrotron radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Tsuneo; Kudo, Hiroyuki; Takeda, Tohoru; Itai, Yuji; Tokumori, Kenji; Toyofuku, Fukai; Hyodo, Kazuyuki; Ando, Masami; Nishimura, Katsuyuki; Uyama, Chikao

1998-08-01

We describe a technique of 3D computed tomography (3D CT) using monochromatic x rays generated by synchrotron radiation, which performs a direct reconstruction of a 3D volume image of an object from its cone-beam projections. For the development, we propose a practical scanning orbit of the x-ray source to obtain complete 3D information on an object, and its corresponding 3D image reconstruction algorithm. The validity and usefulness of the proposed scanning orbit and reconstruction algorithm were confirmed by computer simulation studies. Based on these investigations, we have developed a prototype 3D monochromatic x-ray CT using synchrotron radiation, which provides exact 3D reconstruction and material-selective imaging by using the K-edge energy subtraction technique.

Visibility of Different Intraorbital Foreign Bodies Using Plain Radiography, Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: An In Vitro Study.

PubMed

Javadrashid, Reza; Golamian, Masoud; Shahrzad, Maryam; Hajalioghli, Parisa; Shahmorady, Zahra; Fouladi, Daniel F; Sadrarhami, Shohreh; Akhoundzadeh, Leila

2017-05-01

The study sought to compare the usefulness of 4 imaging modalities in visualizing various intraorbital foreign bodies (IOFBs) in different sizes. Six different materials including metal, wood, plastic, stone, glass. and graphite were cut in cylindrical shapes in 4 sizes (dimensions: 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 mm) and placed intraorbitally in the extraocular space of fresh sheep's head. Four skilled radiologists rated the visibility of the objects individually using plain radiography, spiral computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in accordance with a previously described grading system. Excluding wood, all embedded foreign bodies were best visualized in CT and CBCT images with almost equal accuracies. Wood could only be detected using MRI, and then only when fragments were more than 2 mm in size. There were 3 false-positive MRI reports, suggesting air bubbles as wood IOFBs. Because of lower cost and using less radiation in comparison with conventional CT, CBCT can be used as the initial imaging technique in cases with suspected IOFBs. Optimal imaging technique for wood IOFBs is yet to be defined. Copyright © 2016 Canadian Association of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of Root Canal Preparation Using Rotary System and Hand Instruments Assessed by Micro-Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Stavileci, Miranda; Hoxha, Veton; Görduysus, Ömer; Tatar, Ilkan; Laperre, Kjell; Hostens, Jeroen; Küçükkaya, Selen; Muhaxheri, Edmond

2015-01-01

Background Complete mechanical preparation of the root canal system is rarely achieved. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the root canal shaping efficacy of ProTaper rotary files and standard stainless steel K-files using micro-computed tomography. Material/Methods Sixty extracted upper second premolars were selected and divided into 2 groups of 30 teeth each. Before preparation, all samples were scanned by micro-computed tomography. Thirty teeth were prepared with the ProTaper system and the other 30 with stainless steel files. After preparation, the untouched surface and root canal straightening were evaluated with micro-computed tomography. The percentage of untouched root canal surface was calculated in the coronal, middle, and apical parts of the canal. We also calculated straightening of the canal after root canal preparation. Results from the 2 groups were statistically compared using the Minitab statistical package. Results ProTaper rotary files left less untouched root canal surface compared with manual preparation in coronal, middle, and apical sector (p<0.001). Similarly, there was a statistically significant difference in root canal straightening after preparation between the techniques (p<0.001). Conclusions Neither manual nor rotary techniques completely prepared the root canal, and both techniques caused slight straightening of the root canal. PMID:26092929

Dual-energy computed tomography for the detection of focal liver lesions.

PubMed

Lago, K N; Vallejos, J; Capuñay, C; Salas, E; Reynoso, E; Carpio, J B; Carrascosa, P M

To qualitatively and quantitatively explore the spectral study of focal liver lesions, comparing it with the usual polychromatic assessment with single-energy computed tomography. We prospectively studied 50 patients with at least one focal liver lesion who were referred for abdominal multidetector computed tomography with intravenous contrast material. The portal phase was acquired with dual energy sources. The density of the lesions and of the surrounding liver parenchyma was measured both in the baseline polychromatic acquisition and in the posterior monochromatic reconstructions at 40 keV, 70 keV, and 140 keV. Spectral curves were traced and the dual-energy indices and contrast-to-noise ratio were calculated. Lastly, the quality of the images and the detectability of the lesions were assessed qualitatively. Densitometric differences between the different types of lesions (avascular and vascularized) and the liver were greater at low energy levels (left side of the spectral curve) than in the polychromatic evaluation. In the subjective assessment, the 40keV energy level had the greatest lesion detectability. Monochromatic spectral study with dual-energy computed tomography provides better lesion detectability at 40keV compared to that provided by the ordinary polychromatic evaluation. Copyright © 2017 SERAM. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

X-ray computed tomography of wood-adhesive bondlines: Attenuation and phase-contrast effects

DOE PAGES

Paris, Jesse L.; Kamke, Frederick A.; Xiao, Xianghui

2015-07-29

Microscale X-ray computed tomography (XCT) is discussed as a technique for identifying 3D adhesive distribution in wood-adhesive bondlines. Visualization and material segmentation of the adhesives from the surrounding cellular structures require sufficient gray-scale contrast in the reconstructed XCT data. Commercial wood-adhesive polymers have similar chemical characteristics and density to wood cell wall polymers and therefore do not provide good XCT attenuation contrast in their native form. Here, three different adhesive types, namely phenol formaldehyde, polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate, and a hybrid polyvinyl acetate, are tagged with iodine such that they yield sufficient X-ray attenuation contrast. However, phase-contrast effects at material edgesmore » complicate image quality and segmentation in XCT data reconstructed with conventional filtered backprojection absorption contrast algorithms. A quantitative phase retrieval algorithm, which isolates and removes the phase-contrast effect, was demonstrated. The paper discusses and illustrates the balance between material X-ray attenuation and phase-contrast effects in all quantitative XCT analyses of wood-adhesive bondlines.« less

X-ray computed tomography of wood-adhesive bondlines: Attenuation and phase-contrast effects

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Paris, Jesse L.; Kamke, Frederick A.; Xiao, Xianghui

Microscale X-ray computed tomography (XCT) is discussed as a technique for identifying 3D adhesive distribution in wood-adhesive bondlines. Visualization and material segmentation of the adhesives from the surrounding cellular structures require sufficient gray-scale contrast in the reconstructed XCT data. Commercial wood-adhesive polymers have similar chemical characteristics and density to wood cell wall polymers and therefore do not provide good XCT attenuation contrast in their native form. Here, three different adhesive types, namely phenol formaldehyde, polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate, and a hybrid polyvinyl acetate, are tagged with iodine such that they yield sufficient X-ray attenuation contrast. However, phase-contrast effects at material edgesmore » complicate image quality and segmentation in XCT data reconstructed with conventional filtered backprojection absorption contrast algorithms. A quantitative phase retrieval algorithm, which isolates and removes the phase-contrast effect, was demonstrated. The paper discusses and illustrates the balance between material X-ray attenuation and phase-contrast effects in all quantitative XCT analyses of wood-adhesive bondlines.« less

System-independent characterization of materials using dual-energy computed tomography

DOE PAGES

Azevedo, Stephen G.; Martz, Jr., Harry E.; Aufderheide, III, Maurice B.; ...

2016-02-01

In this study, we present a new decomposition approach for dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) called SIRZ that provides precise and accurate material description, independent of the scanner, over diagnostic energy ranges (30 to 200 keV). System independence is achieved by explicitly including a scanner-specific spectral description in the decomposition method, and a new X-ray-relevant feature space. The feature space consists of electron density, ρ e, and a new effective atomic number, Z e, which is based on published X-ray cross sections. Reference materials are used in conjunction with the system spectral response so that additional beam-hardening correction is not necessary.more » The technique is tested against other methods on DECT data of known specimens scanned by diverse spectra and systems. Uncertainties in accuracy and precision are less than 3% and 2% respectively for the (ρ e, Z e) results compared to prior methods that are inaccurate and imprecise (over 9%).« less

Examination of Scanning Electron Microscope and Computed Tomography Images of PICA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawson, John W.; Stackpoole, Margaret M.; Shklover, Valery

2010-01-01

Micrographs of PICA (Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator) taken using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and 3D images taken with a Computed Tomography (CT) system are examined. PICA is a carbon fiber based composite (Fiberform ) with a phenolic polymer matrix. The micrographs are taken at different surface depths and at different magnifications in a sample after arc jet testing and show different levels of oxidative removal of the charred matrix (Figs 1 though 13). CT scans, courtesy of Xradia, Inc. of Concord CA, were captured for samples of virgin PICA, charred PICA and raw Fiberform (Fig. 14). We use these images to calculate the thermal conductivity (TC) of these materials using correlation function (CF) methods. CF methods give a mathematical description of how one material is embedded in another and is thus ideally suited for modeling composites like PICA. We will evaluate how the TC of the materials changes as a function of surface depth. This work is in collaboration with ETH-Zurich, which has expertise in high temperature materials and TC modeling (including CF methods).

SU-E-P-10: Establishment of Local Diagnostic Reference Levels of Routine Exam in Computed Tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yeh, M; Wang, Y; Weng, H

Introduction National diagnostic reference levels (NDRLs) can be used as a reference dose of radiological examination can provide radiation dose as the basis of patient dose optimization. Local diagnostic reference levels (LDRLs) by periodically view and check doses, more efficiency to improve the way of examination. Therefore, the important first step is establishing a diagnostic reference level. Computed Tomography in Taiwan had been built up the radiation dose limit value,in addition, many studies report shows that CT scan contributed most of the radiation dose in different medical. Therefore, this study was mainly to let everyone understand DRL’s international status. Formore » computed tomography in our hospital to establish diagnostic reference levels. Methods and Materials: There are two clinical CT scanners (a Toshiba Aquilion and a Siemens Sensation) were performed in this study. For CT examinations the basic recommended dosimetric quantity is the Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDI). Each exam each different body part, we collect 10 patients at least. Carried out the routine examinations, and all exposure parameters have been collected and the corresponding CTDIv and DLP values have been determined. Results: The majority of patients (75%) were between 60–70 Kg of body weight. There are 25 examinations in this study. Table 1 shows the LDRL of each CT routine examination. Conclusions: Therefore, this study would like to let everyone know DRL’s international status, but also establishment of computed tomography of the local reference levels for our hospital, and providing radiation reference, as a basis for optimizing patient dose.« less

Susceptibility weighted imaging: differentiating between calcification and hemosiderin*

PubMed Central

Barbosa, Jeam Haroldo Oliveira; Santos, Antonio Carlos; Salmon, Carlos Ernesto Garrido

2015-01-01

Objective To present a detailed explanation on the processing of magnetic susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI), demonstrating the effects of echo time and sensitive mask on the differentiation between calcification and hemosiderin. Materials and Methods Computed tomography and magnetic resonance (magnitude and phase) images of six patients (age range 41– 54 years; four men) were retrospectively selected. The SWI images processing was performed using the Matlab’s own routine. Results Four out of the six patients showed calcifications at computed tomography images and their SWI images demonstrated hyperintense signal at the calcification regions. The other patients did not show any calcifications at computed tomography, and SWI revealed the presence of hemosiderin deposits with hypointense signal. Conclusion The selection of echo time and of the mask may change all the information on SWI images, and compromise the diagnostic reliability. Amongst the possible masks, the authors highlight that the sigmoid mask allows for contrasting calcifications and hemosiderin on a single SWI image. PMID:25987750

Reconstruction method for fluorescent X-ray computed tomography by least-squares method using singular value decomposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuasa, T.; Akiba, M.; Takeda, T.; Kazama, M.; Hoshino, A.; Watanabe, Y.; Hyodo, K.; Dilmanian, F. A.; Akatsuka, T.; Itai, Y.

1997-02-01

We describe a new attenuation correction method for fluorescent X-ray computed tomography (FXCT) applied to image nonradioactive contrast materials in vivo. The principle of the FXCT imaging is that of computed tomography of the first generation. Using monochromatized synchrotron radiation from the BLNE-5A bending-magnet beam line of Tristan Accumulation Ring in KEK, Japan, we studied phantoms with the FXCT method, and we succeeded in delineating a 4-mm-diameter channel filled with a 500 /spl mu/g I/ml iodine solution in a 20-mm-diameter acrylic cylindrical phantom. However, to detect smaller iodine concentrations, attenuation correction is needed. We present a correction method based on the equation representing the measurement process. The discretized equation system is solved by the least-squares method using the singular value decomposition. The attenuation correction method is applied to the projections by the Monte Carlo simulation and the experiment to confirm its effectiveness.

Synchrotron-based X-ray computed tomography during compression loading of cellular materials

DOE PAGES

Cordes, Nikolaus L.; Henderson, Kevin; Stannard, Tyler; ...

2015-04-29

Three-dimensional X-ray computed tomography (CT) of in situ dynamic processes provides internal snapshot images as a function of time. Tomograms are mathematically reconstructed from a series of radiographs taken in rapid succession as the specimen is rotated in small angular increments. In addition to spatial resolution, temporal resolution is important. Thus temporal resolution indicates how close together in time two distinct tomograms can be acquired. Tomograms taken in rapid succession allow detailed analyses of internal processes that cannot be obtained by other means. This article describes the state-of-the-art for such measurements acquired using synchrotron radiation as the X-ray source.

Identifying and locating surface defects in wood: Part of an automated lumber processing system

Treesearch

Richard W. Conners; Charles W. McMillin; Kingyao Lin; Ramon E. Vasquez-Espinosa

1983-01-01

Continued increases in the cost of materials and labor make it imperative for furniture manufacturers to control costs by improved yield and increased productivity. This paper describes an Automated Lumber Processing System (ALPS) that employs computer tomography, optical scanning technology, the calculation of an optimum cutting strategy, and 1 computer-driven laser...

Computed tomographic images using tube source of x rays: interior properties of the material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rao, Donepudi V.; Takeda, Tohoru; Itai, Yuji; Seltzer, S. M.; Hubbell, John H.; Zeniya, Tsutomu; Akatsuka, Takao; Cesareo, Roberto; Brunetti, Antonio; Gigante, Giovanni E.

2002-01-01

An image intensifier based computed tomography scanner and a tube source of x-rays are used to obtain the images of small objects, plastics, wood and soft materials in order to know the interior properties of the material. A new method is developed to estimate the degree of monochromacy, total solid angle, efficiency and geometrical effects of the measuring system and the way to produce monoenergetic radiation. The flux emitted by the x-ray tube is filtered using the appropriate filters at the chosen optimum energy and reasonable monochromacy is achieved and the images are acceptably distinct. Much attention has been focused on the imaging of small objects of weakly attenuating materials at optimum value. At optimum value it is possible to calculate the three-dimensional representation of inner and outer surfaces of the object. The image contrast between soft materials could be significantly enhanced by optimal selection of the energy of the x-rays by Monte Carlo methods. The imaging system is compact, reasonably economic, has a good contrast resolution, simple operation and routine availability and explores the use of optimizing tomography for various applications.

Determination of tissue equivalent materials of a physical 8-year-old phantom for use in computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akhlaghi, Parisa; Miri Hakimabad, Hashem; Rafat Motavalli, Laleh

2015-07-01

This paper reports on the methodology applied to select suitable tissue equivalent materials of an 8-year phantom for use in computed tomography (CT) examinations. To find the appropriate tissue substitutes, first physical properties (physical density, electronic density, effective atomic number, mass attenuation coefficient and CT number) of different materials were studied. Results showed that, the physical properties of water and polyurethane (as soft tissue), B-100 and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) (as bone) and polyurethane foam (as lung) agree more with those of original tissues. Then in the next step, the absorbed doses in the location of 25 thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) as well as dose distribution in one slice of phantom were calculated for original and these proposed materials by Monte Carlo simulation at different tube voltages. The comparisons suggested that at tube voltages of 80 and 100 kVp using B-100 as bone, water as soft tissue and polyurethane foam as lung is suitable for dosimetric study in pediatric CT examinations. In addition, it was concluded that by considering just the mass attenuation coefficient of different materials, the appropriate tissue equivalent substitutes in each desired X-ray energy range could be found.

Characterization of aggregates for sustainable freight transportation infrastructure.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

A novel method, X-ray computed tomography, has recently emerged as a powerful, nondestructive : methodology for material characterization, including geomaterials. This : method produces 3D images of the object that can be analyzed in various ways bas...

Relationship between the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale score and the success rate of 64-slice computed tomography coronary angiography.

PubMed

Li, Hui; Jin, Dan; Qiao, Fang; Chen, Jianchang; Gong, Jianping

Computed tomography coronary angiography, a key method for obtaining coronary artery images, is widely used to screen for coronary artery diseases due to its noninvasive nature. In China, 64-slice computed tomography systems are now the most common models. As factors that directly affect computed tomography performance, heart rate and rhythm control are regulated by the autonomic nervous system and are highly related to the emotional state of the patient. The aim of this prospective study is to use a pre-computed tomography scan Self-Rating Anxiety Scale assessment to analyze the effects of tension and anxiety on computed tomography coronary angiography success. Subjects aged 18-85 years who were planned to undergo computed tomography coronary angiography were enrolled; 1 to 2 h before the computed tomography scan, basic patient data (gender, age, heart rate at rest, and family history) and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale score were obtained. The same group of imaging department doctors, technicians, and nurses performed computed tomography coronary angiography for all the enrolled subjects and observed whether those subjects could finish the computed tomography coronary angiography scan and provide clear, diagnostically valuable images. Participants were divided into successful (obtained diagnostically useful coronary images) and unsuccessful groups. Basic data and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale scores were compared between the groups. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale standard score of the successful group was lower than that of the unsuccessful group (P = 0.001). As the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale standard score rose, the success rate of computed tomography coronary angiography decreased. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale score has a negative relationship with computed tomography coronary angiography success. Anxiety can be a disadvantage in computed tomography coronary angiography examination. The pre-computed tomography coronary angiography scan Self-Rating Anxiety Scale score may be a useful tool for assessing whether a computed tomography coronary angiography scan will be successful or not. © The Author(s) 2015.

Three dimensional characterization of laser ablation craters using high resolution X-ray computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galmed, A. H.; du Plessis, A.; le Roux, S. G.; Hartnick, E.; Von Bergmann, H.; Maaza, M.

2018-01-01

Laboratory X-ray computed tomography is an emerging technology for the 3D characterization and dimensional analysis of many types of materials. In this work we demonstrate the usefulness of this characterization method for the full three dimensional analysis of laser ablation craters, in the context of a laser induced breakdown spectroscopy setup. Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy relies on laser ablation for sampling the material of interest. We demonstrate here qualitatively (in images) and quantitatively (in terms of crater cone angles, depths, diameters and volume) laser ablation crater analysis in 3D for metal (aluminum) and rock (false gold ore). We show the effect of a Gaussian beam profile on the resulting crater geometry, as well as the first visual evidence of undercutting in the rock sample, most likely due to ejection of relatively large grains. The method holds promise for optimization of laser ablation setups especially for laser induced breakdown spectroscopy.

Computed gray levels in multislice and cone-beam computed tomography.

PubMed

Azeredo, Fabiane; de Menezes, Luciane Macedo; Enciso, Reyes; Weissheimer, Andre; de Oliveira, Rogério Belle

2013-07-01

Gray level is the range of shades of gray in the pixels, representing the x-ray attenuation coefficient that allows for tissue density assessments in computed tomography (CT). An in-vitro study was performed to investigate the relationship between computed gray levels in 3 cone-beam CT (CBCT) scanners and 1 multislice spiral CT device using 5 software programs. Six materials (air, water, wax, acrylic, plaster, and gutta-percha) were scanned with the CBCT and CT scanners, and the computed gray levels for each material at predetermined points were measured with OsiriX Medical Imaging software (Geneva, Switzerland), OnDemand3D (CyberMed International, Seoul, Korea), E-Film (Merge Healthcare, Milwaukee, Wis), Dolphin Imaging (Dolphin Imaging & Management Solutions, Chatsworth, Calif), and InVivo Dental Software (Anatomage, San Jose, Calif). The repeatability of these measurements was calculated with intraclass correlation coefficients, and the gray levels were averaged to represent each material. Repeated analysis of variance tests were used to assess the differences in gray levels among scanners and materials. There were no differences in mean gray levels with the different software programs. There were significant differences in gray levels between scanners for each material evaluated (P <0.001). The software programs were reliable and had no influence on the CT and CBCT gray level measurements. However, the gray levels might have discrepancies when different CT and CBCT scanners are used. Therefore, caution is essential when interpreting or evaluating CBCT images because of the significant differences in gray levels between different CBCT scanners, and between CBCT and CT values. Copyright © 2013 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

High temperature x-ray micro-tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

MacDowell, Alastair A., E-mail: aamacdowell@lbl.gov; Barnard, Harold; Parkinson, Dilworth Y.

2016-07-27

There is increasing demand for 3D micro-scale time-resolved imaging of samples in realistic - and in many cases extreme environments. The data is used to understand material response, validate and refine computational models which, in turn, can be used to reduce development time for new materials and processes. Here we present the results of high temperature experiments carried out at the x-ray micro-tomography beamline 8.3.2 at the Advanced Light Source. The themes involve material failure and processing at temperatures up to 1750°C. The experimental configurations required to achieve the requisite conditions for imaging are described, with examples of ceramic matrixmore » composites, spacecraft ablative heat shields and nuclear reactor core Gilsocarbon graphite.« less

Local X-ray Computed Tomography Imaging for Mineralogical and Pore Characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mills, G.; Willson, C. S.

2015-12-01

Sample size, material properties and image resolution are all tradeoffs that must be considered when imaging porous media samples with X-ray computed tomography. In many natural and engineered samples, pore and throat sizes span several orders of magnitude and are often correlated with the material composition. Local tomography is a nondestructive technique that images a subvolume, within a larger specimen, at high resolution and uses low-resolution tomography data from the larger specimen to reduce reconstruction error. The high-resolution, subvolume data can be used to extract important fine-scale properties but, due to the additional noise associated with the truncated dataset, it makes segmentation of different materials and mineral phases a challenge. The low-resolution data of a larger specimen is typically of much higher-quality making material characterization much easier. In addition, the imaging of a larger domain, allows for mm-scale bulk properties and heterogeneities to be determined. In this research, a 7 mm diameter and ~15 mm in length sandstone core was scanned twice. The first scan was performed to cover the entire diameter and length of the specimen at an image voxel resolution of 4.1 μm. The second scan was performed on a subvolume, ~1.3 mm in length and ~2.1 mm in diameter, at an image voxel resolution of 1.08 μm. After image processing and segmentation, the pore network structure and mineralogical features were extracted from the low-resolution dataset. Due to the noise in the truncated high-resolution dataset, several image processing approaches were applied prior to image segmentation and extraction of the pore network structure and mineralogy. Results from the different truncated tomography segmented data sets are compared to each other to evaluate the potential of each approach in identifying the different solid phases from the original 16 bit data set. The truncated tomography segmented data sets were also compared to the whole-core tomography segmented data set in two ways: (1) assessment of the porosity and pore size distribution at different scales; and (2) comparison of the mineralogical composition and distribution. Finally, registration of the two datasets will be used to show how the pore structure and mineralogy details at the two scales can be used to supplement each other.

Computed Tomography (CT) - Spine

MedlinePlus

... Resources Professions Site Index A-Z Computed Tomography (CT) - Spine Computed tomography (CT) of the spine is ... of CT Scanning of the Spine? What is CT Scanning of the Spine? Computed tomography, more commonly ...

CT Imaging, Data Reduction, and Visualization of Hardwood Logs

Treesearch

Daniel L. Schmoldt

1996-01-01

Computer tomography (CT) is a mathematical technique that, combined with noninvasive scanning such as x-ray imaging, has become a powerful tool to nondestructively test materials prior to use or to evaluate materials prior to processing. In the current context, hardwood lumber processing can benefit greatly by knowing what a log looks like prior to initial breakdown....

The microstructure of capsule containing self-healing materials: A micro-computed tomography study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Van Stappen, Jeroen, E-mail: Jeroen.Vanstappen@uge

Autonomic self-healing materials are materials with built-in (micro-) capsules or vessels, which upon fracturing release healing agents in order to recover the material's physical and mechanical properties. In order to better understand and engineer these materials, a thorough characterization of the material's microstructural behavior is essential and often overlooked. In this context, micro-computed tomography (μCT) can be used to investigate the three dimensional distribution and (de)bonding of (micro-) capsules in their native state in a polymer system with self-healing properties. Furthermore, in-situ μCT experiments in a self-healing polymer and a self-healing concrete system can elucidate the breakage and leakage behaviormore » of (micro-) capsules at the micrometer scale. While challenges related to image resolution and contrast complicate the characterization in specific cases, non-destructive 3D imaging with μCT is shown to contribute to the understanding of the link between the microstructure and the self-healing behavior of these complex materials. - Highlights: • μCT imaging allows for the analysis of microcapsule distribution patterns in self-healing materials. • μCT allows for qualitative and quantitative measurements of healing agent release from carriers in self-healing materials. • Experimental set-ups can be optimized by changing chemical compounds in the system to ensure maximum quality imaging.« less

Interior tomographic imaging for x-ray coherent scattering (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pang, Sean; Zhu, Zheyuan

2017-05-01

Conventional computed tomography reconstructs the attenuation only high-dimensional images. Coherent scatter computed tomography, which reconstructs the angular dependent scattering profiles of 3D objects, can provide molecular signatures that improves the accuracy of material identification and classification. Coherent scatter tomography are traditionally acquired by setups similar to x-ray powder diffraction machine; a collimated source in combination with 2D or 1D detector collimation in order to localize the scattering point. In addition, the coherent scatter cross-section is often 3 orders of magnitude lower than that of the absorption cross-section for the same material. Coded aperture and structured illumination approaches has been shown to greatly improve the collection efficiency. In many applications, especially in security imaging and medical diagnosis, fast and accurate identification of the material composition of a small volume within the whole object would lead to an accelerated imaging procedure and reduced radiation dose. Here, we report an imaging method to reconstruct the material coherent scatter profile within a small volume. The reconstruction along one radial direction can reconstruct a scalar coherent scattering tomographic image. Our methods takes advantage of the finite support of the scattering profile in small angle regime. Our system uses a pencil beam setup without using any detector side collimation. Coherent scatter profile of a 10 mm scattering sample embedded in a 30 mm diameter phantom was reconstructed. The setup has small form factor and is suitable for various portable non-destructive detection applications.

Fundamentals and recent advances in X-ray micro computed tomography (microCT) applied on thermal-fluid dynamics and multiphase flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santini, Maurizio

2015-11-01

X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a well-known technique nowadays, since its first practical application by Sir. G. Hounsfield (Nobel price for medicine 1979) has continually benefited from optimising improvements, especially in medical applications. Indeed, also application of CT in various engineering research fields provides fundamental informations on a wide range of applications, considering that the technique is not destructive, allowing 3D visualization without perturbation of the analysed material. Nowadays, it is technologically possible to design and realize an equipment that achieve a micrometric resolution and even improve the sensibility in revealing differences in materials having very radiotransparency, allowing i.e. to distinguish between different fluids (with different density) or states of matter (like with two-phase flows). At the University of Bergamo, a prototype of an X-ray microCT system was developed since 2008, so being fully operative from 2012, with specific customizations for investigations in thermal-fluid dynamics and multiphase flow researches. A technical session held at the UIT International Conference in L'Aquila (Italy), at which this paper is referring, has presented some microCT fundamentals, to allow the audience to gain basics to follow the “fil-rouge” that links all the instrumentation developments, till the recent applications. Hereinafter are reported some applications currently developed at Bergamo University at the X-ray computed micro-tomography laboratory.

Volumetric Evaluation of Different Obturation Techniques in Primary Teeth Using Spiral Computed Tomography.

PubMed

Nagaveni, N B; Yadav, Sneha; Poornima, P; Reddy, Vv Subba; Roshan, N M

Various obturation techniques have been evaluated for better filling of the root canals in primary teeth using different methods. Spiral Computed Tomography (SCT) is a new revolution in the pediatric endodontics for assessment of quality of the obturation from 3 dimensions. To evaluate the efficiency of 5 different obturation methods in delivering the filling material into the canals of primary teeth using Spiral Computed Tomography scan. A total of 50 canals of primary teeth were prepared, divided into 5 groups with 10 canals in each group and obturated with Zinc Oxide Eugenol cement using 5 different obturation techniques such as Local anesthetic syringe, Tuberculin syringe, Endodontic plugger, hand held Lentulo-spiral, and Lentulo-spiral mounted on slow speed hand piece. The pre and post obturation volume and finally the Percentage of Obturated Volume (POV) were calculated using SCT scan for each group. The data obtained was statistically analyzed using One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post-hoc test. Lentulo-spiral hand held showed highest POV value followed by Lentulospiral mounted to hand piece, Tuberculin syringe and Endodontic plugger; whereas Anesthetic syringe had least POV (P < 0.05). Lentulo-spiral hand held is the best obturating technique among the 5 groups evaluated as the canals of this group showed maximum percentage of filled material. However, a further study with large sample size is highly essential.

Clinical value of whole body fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in the detection of metastatic bladder cancer.

PubMed

Yang, Zhongyi; Pan, Lingling; Cheng, Jingyi; Hu, Silong; Xu, Junyan; Ye, Dingwei; Zhang, Yingjian

2012-07-01

To investigate the value of whole-body fluorine-18 2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for the detection of metastatic bladder cancer. From December 2006 to August 2010, 60 bladder cancer patients (median age 60.5 years old, range 32-96) underwent whole body positron emission tomography/computed tomography positron emission tomography/computed tomography. The diagnostic accuracy was assessed by performing both organ-based and patient-based analyses. Identified lesions were further studied by biopsy or clinically followed for at least 6 months. One hundred and thirty-four suspicious lesions were identified. Among them, 4 primary cancers (2 pancreatic cancers, 1 colonic and 1 nasopharyngeal cancer) were incidentally detected, and the patients could be treated on time. For the remaining 130 lesions, positron emission tomography/computed tomography detected 118 true positive lesions (sensitivity = 95.9%). On the patient-based analysis, the overall sensitivity and specificity resulted to be 87.1% and 89.7%, respectively. There was no difference of sensitivity and specificity in patients with or without adjuvant treatment in terms of detection of metastatic sites by positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Compared with conventional imaging modality, positron emission tomography/computed tomography correctly changed the management in 15 patients (25.0%). Positron emission tomography/computed tomography has excellent sensitivity and specificity in the detection of metastatic bladder cancer and it provides additional diagnostic information compared to standard imaging techniques. © 2012 The Japanese Urological Association.

Treatment of a Salmonella-induced rapidly expanding aortic pseudoaneurysm involving the visceral arteries using the Cardiatis multilayer stent.

PubMed

Reijnen, Michel M P J; van Sterkenburg, Steven M M

2014-10-01

Treatment of infection-induced aortic aneurysms is among the greatest challenges nowadays of vascular surgery because the use of prosthetic material is considered unsuitable. The Cardiatis multilayer stent (Cardiatis, Isnes, Belgium) is a flow-diverting bare stent with a proven efficacy in peripheral and visceral artery aneurysms. We present a unique case of a Salmonella serotype enteritidis-induced rapidly expanding aortic pseudoaneurysm with a penetrating ulcer that was treated with the Cardiatis multilayer stent. At 18 months of follow-up, the patient was in good clinical condition, with normalized C-reactive protein levels. Computed tomography angiography and 2-deoxy-2-[F18]-fluoro-d-glucose-positron-emission tomography/computed tomography showed a stable, mostly thrombosed aneurysm, with adequate perfusion of the side branches and no remaining signs of infection. Copyright © 2014 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Microstructural Quantification, Property Prediction, and Stochastic Reconstruction of Heterogeneous Materials Using Limited X-Ray Tomography Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Hechao

An accurate knowledge of the complex microstructure of a heterogeneous material is crucial for quantitative structure-property relations establishment and its performance prediction and optimization. X-ray tomography has provided a non-destructive means for microstructure characterization in both 3D and 4D (i.e., structural evolution over time). Traditional reconstruction algorithms like filtered-back-projection (FBP) method or algebraic reconstruction techniques (ART) require huge number of tomographic projections and segmentation process before conducting microstructural quantification. This can be quite time consuming and computationally intensive. In this thesis, a novel procedure is first presented that allows one to directly extract key structural information in forms of spatial correlation functions from limited x-ray tomography data. The key component of the procedure is the computation of a "probability map", which provides the probability of an arbitrary point in the material system belonging to specific phase. The correlation functions of interest are then readily computed from the probability map. Using effective medium theory, accurate predictions of physical properties (e.g., elastic moduli) can be obtained. Secondly, a stochastic optimization procedure that enables one to accurately reconstruct material microstructure from a small number of x-ray tomographic projections (e.g., 20 - 40) is presented. Moreover, a stochastic procedure for multi-modal data fusion is proposed, where both X-ray projections and correlation functions computed from limited 2D optical images are fused to accurately reconstruct complex heterogeneous materials in 3D. This multi-modal reconstruction algorithm is proved to be able to integrate the complementary data to perform an excellent optimization procedure, which indicates its high efficiency in using limited structural information. Finally, the accuracy of the stochastic reconstruction procedure using limited X-ray projection data is ascertained by analyzing the microstructural degeneracy and the roughness of energy landscape associated with different number of projections. Ground-state degeneracy of a microstructure is found to decrease with increasing number of projections, which indicates a higher probability that the reconstructed configurations match the actual microstructure. The roughness of energy landscape can also provide information about the complexity and convergence behavior of the reconstruction for given microstructures and projection number.

Dual-energy computed tomography for detection of coronary artery disease

PubMed Central

Danad, Ibrahim; Ó Hartaigh, Bríain; Min, James K.

2016-01-01

Recent technological advances in computed tomography (CT) technology have fulfilled the prerequisites for the cardiac application of dual-energy CT (DECT) imaging. By exploiting the unique characteristics of materials when exposed to two different x-ray energies, DECT holds great promise for the diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease. It allows for the assessment of myocardial perfusion to discern the hemodynamic significance of coronary disease and possesses high accuracy for the detection and characterization of coronary plaques, while facilitating reductions in radiation dose. As such, DECT enabled cardiac CT to advance beyond the mere detection of coronary stenosis expanding its role in the evaluation and management of coronary atherosclerosis. PMID:26549789

Calibration-free quantification of interior properties of porous media with x-ray computed tomography.

PubMed

Hussein, Esam M A; Agbogun, H M D; Al, Tom A

2015-03-01

A method is presented for interpreting the values of x-ray attenuation coefficients reconstructed in computed tomography of porous media, while overcoming the ambiguity caused by the multichromatic nature of x-rays, dilution by void, and material heterogeneity. The method enables determination of porosity without relying on calibration or image segmentation or thresholding to discriminate pores from solid material. It distinguishes between solution-accessible and inaccessible pores, and provides the spatial and frequency distributions of solid-matrix material in a heterogeneous medium. This is accomplished by matching an image of a sample saturated with a contrast solution with that saturated with a transparent solution. Voxels occupied with solid-material and inaccessible pores are identified by the fact that they maintain the same location and image attributes in both images, with voxels containing inaccessible pores appearing empty in both images. Fully porous and accessible voxels exhibit the maximum contrast, while the rest are porous voxels containing mixtures of pore solutions and solid. This matching process is performed with an image registration computer code, and image processing software that requires only simple subtraction and multiplication (scaling) processes. The process is demonstrated in dolomite (non-uniform void distribution, homogeneous solid matrix) and sandstone (nearly uniform void distribution, heterogeneous solid matrix) samples, and its overall performance is shown to compare favorably with a method based on calibration and thresholding. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Scattered image artifacts from cone beam computed tomography and its clinical potential in bone mineral density estimation.

PubMed

Ko, Hoon; Jeong, Kwanmoon; Lee, Chang-Hoon; Jun, Hong Young; Jeong, Changwon; Lee, Myeung Su; Nam, Yunyoung; Yoon, Kwon-Ha; Lee, Jinseok

2016-01-01

Image artifacts affect the quality of medical images and may obscure anatomic structure and pathology. Numerous methods for suppression and correction of scattered image artifacts have been suggested in the past three decades. In this paper, we assessed the feasibility of use of information on scattered artifacts for estimation of bone mineral density (BMD) without dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) or quantitative computed tomographic imaging (QCT). To investigate the relationship between scattered image artifacts and BMD, we first used a forearm phantom and cone-beam computed tomography. In the phantom, we considered two regions of interest-bone-equivalent solid material containing 50 mg HA per cm(-3) and water-to represent low- and high-density trabecular bone, respectively. We compared the scattered image artifacts in the high-density material with those in the low-density material. The technique was then applied to osteoporosis patients and healthy subjects to assess its feasibility for BMD estimation. The high-density material produced a greater number of scattered image artifacts than the low-density material. Moreover, the radius and ulna of healthy subjects produced a greater number of scattered image artifacts than those from osteoporosis patients. Although other parameters, such as bone thickness and X-ray incidence, should be considered, our technique facilitated BMD estimation directly without DXA or QCT. We believe that BMD estimation based on assessment of scattered image artifacts may benefit the prevention, early treatment and management of osteoporosis.

Reduction of metal artifact in three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) with dental impression materials.

PubMed

Park, W S; Kim, K D; Shin, H K; Lee, S H

2007-01-01

Metal Artifact still remains one of the main drawbacks in craniofacial Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography (3D CT). In this study, we tried to test the efficacy of additional silicone dental impression materials as a "tooth shield" for the reduction of metal artifact caused by metal restorations and orthodontic appliances. 6 phantoms with 4 teeth were prepared for this in vitro study. Orthodontic bracket, bands and amalgam restorations were placed in each tooth to reproduce various intraoral conditions. Standardized silicone shields were fabricated and placed around the teeth. CT image acquisition was performed with and without silicone shields. Maximum value, mean, and standard deviation of Hounsfield Units (HU) were compared with the presence of silicone shields. In every situation, metal artifacts were reduced in quality and quantity when silicone shields are used. Amalgam restoration made most serious metal artifact. Silicone shields made by dental impression material might be effective way to reduce the metal artifact caused by dental restoration and orthodontic appliances. This will help more excellent 3D image from 3D CT in craniofacial area.

Density conversion factor determined using a cone-beam computed tomography unit NewTom QR-DVT 9000.

PubMed

Lagravère, M O; Fang, Y; Carey, J; Toogood, R W; Packota, G V; Major, P W

2006-11-01

The purpose of this study was to determine a conversion coefficient for Hounsfield Units (HU) to material density (g cm(-3)) obtained from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT-NewTom QR-DVT 9000) data. Six cylindrical models of materials with different densities were made and scanned using the NewTom QR-DVT 9000 Volume Scanner. The raw data were converted into DICOM format and analysed using Merge eFilm and AMIRA to determine the HU of different areas of the models. There was no significant difference (P = 0.846) between the HU given by each piece of software. A linear regression was performed using the density, rho (g cm(-3)), as the dependent variable in terms of the HU (H). The regression equation obtained was rho = 0.002H-0.381 with an R2 value of 0.986. The standard error of the estimation is 27.104 HU in the case of the Hounsfield Units and 0.064 g cm(-3) in the case of density. CBCT provides an effective option for determination of material density expressed as Hounsfield Units.

Fluorescent x-ray computed tomography to visualize specific material distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeda, Tohoru; Yuasa, Tetsuya; Hoshino, Atsunori; Akiba, Masahiro; Uchida, Akira; Kazama, Masahiro; Hyodo, Kazuyuki; Dilmanian, F. Avraham; Akatsuka, Takao; Itai, Yuji

1997-10-01

Fluorescent x-ray computed tomography (FXCT) is being developed to detect non-radioactive contrast materials in living specimens. The FXCT systems consists of a silicon channel cut monochromator, an x-ray slit and a collimator for detection, a scanning table for the target organ and an x-ray detector for fluorescent x-ray and transmission x-ray. To reduce Compton scattering overlapped on the K(alpha) line, incident monochromatic x-ray was set at 37 keV. At 37 keV Monte Carlo simulation showed almost complete separation between Compton scattering and the K(alpha) line. Actual experiments revealed small contamination of Compton scattering on the K(alpha) line. A clear FXCT image of a phantom was obtained. Using this system the minimal detectable dose of iodine was 30 ng in a volume of 1 mm3, and a linear relationship was demonstrated between photon counts of fluorescent x-rays and the concentration of iodine contrast material. The use of high incident x-ray energy allows an increase in the signal to noise ratio by reducing the Compton scattering on the K(alpha) line.

The use of microtomography in bone tissue and biomaterial three-dimensional analysis.

PubMed

Bedini, Rossella; Meleo, Deborah; Pecci, Raffaella; Pacifici, Luciano

2009-01-01

X-ray computed microtomography (micro-CT, microComputerised Tomography) is a miniaturized form of conventional computerized axial tomography (CAT ). This sophisticated technology enables 3D riconstruction of the internal structure of small X-ray opaque objects without sample destruction or preparation. The aim of this study is to show the possible applications of micro-CT in the analysis of bone graft materials of different origins (i.e. homologous, heterologous, alloplastic) in order to define their morphometric properties by means of SkyScan 1072 3D microtomography system. Since there is a close relationship between the properties of the materials and their microstructure, it is necessary to examine them using the highest levels of resolution before being able to improve existing materials or create new products.

[Imaging analysis of jaw defects reparation with antigen-extracted porcine cancellous bone].

PubMed

Chen, Xufeng; Lu, Lihong; Feng, Zhiqiang; Yin, Zhongda; Lai, Renfa

2017-12-01

At present, most of the bone xenograft for clinical application comes from bovine. In recent years, many studies have been done on the clinical application of porcine xenograft bone. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of canine mandibular defects reparation with antigen-extracted porcine cancellous bone by imaging examination. Four dogs' bilateral mandibular defects were created, with one side repaired with autologous bone (set as control group) while the other side repaired with antigen-extracted porcine cancellous bone (set as experimental group). Titanium plates and titanium screws were used for fixation. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), computed tomography (CT), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) were undertaken at week 12 and 24 postoperatively, and SPECT and CT images were fused. The results demonstrated that the remodeling of antigen-extracted porcine cancellous bone was slower than that of autologous bone, but it can still be used as scaffold for jaw defects. The results in this study provide a new choice for materials required for clinical reparation of jaw defects.

HT2DINV: A 2D forward and inverse code for steady-state and transient hydraulic tomography problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soueid Ahmed, A.; Jardani, A.; Revil, A.; Dupont, J. P.

2015-12-01

Hydraulic tomography is a technique used to characterize the spatial heterogeneities of storativity and transmissivity fields. The responses of an aquifer to a source of hydraulic stimulations are used to recover the features of the estimated fields using inverse techniques. We developed a 2D free source Matlab package for performing hydraulic tomography analysis in steady state and transient regimes. The package uses the finite elements method to solve the ground water flow equation for simple or complex geometries accounting for the anisotropy of the material properties. The inverse problem is based on implementing the geostatistical quasi-linear approach of Kitanidis combined with the adjoint-state method to compute the required sensitivity matrices. For undetermined inverse problems, the adjoint-state method provides a faster and more accurate approach for the evaluation of sensitivity matrices compared with the finite differences method. Our methodology is organized in a way that permits the end-user to activate parallel computing in order to reduce the computational burden. Three case studies are investigated demonstrating the robustness and efficiency of our approach for inverting hydraulic parameters.

Materials characterization on efforts for ablative materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tytula, Thomas P.; Schad, Kristin C.; Swann, Myles H.

1992-01-01

Experimental efforts to develop a new procedure to measure char depth in carbon phenolic nozzle material are described. Using a Shor Type D Durometer, hardness profiles were mapped across post fired sample blocks and specimens from a fired rocket nozzle. Linear regression was used to estimate the char depth. Results are compared to those obtained from computed tomography in a comparative experiment. There was no significant difference in the depth estimates obtained by the two methods.

Method for beam hardening correction in quantitative computed X-ray tomography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yan, Chye Hwang (Inventor); Whalen, Robert T. (Inventor); Napel, Sandy (Inventor)

2001-01-01

Each voxel is assumed to contain exactly two distinct materials, with the volume fraction of each material being iteratively calculated. According to the method, the spectrum of the X-ray beam must be known, and the attenuation spectra of the materials in the object must be known, and be monotonically decreasing with increasing X-ray photon energy. Then, a volume fraction is estimated for the voxel, and the spectrum is iteratively calculated.

[Diagnostic possibilities of digital volume tomography].

PubMed

Lemkamp, Michael; Filippi, Andreas; Berndt, Dorothea; Lambrecht, J Thomas

2006-01-01

Cone beam computed tomography allows high quality 3D images of cranio-facial structures. Although detail resolution is increased, x-ray exposition is reduced compared to classic computer tomography. The volume is analysed in three orthogonal plains, which can be rotated independently without quality loss. Cone beam computed tomography seems to be a less expensive and less x-ray exposing alternative to classic computer tomography.

Investigation of the effects of storage time on the dimensional accuracy of impression materials using cone beam computed tomography

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

PURPOSE The storage conditions of impressions affect the dimensional accuracy of the impression materials. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of storage time on dimensional accuracy of five different impression materials by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS Polyether (Impregum), hydrocolloid (Hydrogum and Alginoplast), and silicone (Zetaflow and Honigum) impression materials were used for impressions taken from an acrylic master model. The impressions were poured and subjected to four different storage times: immediate use, and 1, 3, and 5 days of storage. Line 1 (between right and left first molar mesiobuccal cusp tips) and Line 2 (between right and left canine tips) were measured on a CBCT scanned model, and time dependent mean differences were analyzed by two-way univariate and Duncan's test (α=.05). RESULTS For Line 1, the total mean difference of Impregum and Hydrogum were statistically different from Alginoplast (P<.05), while Zetaflow and Honigum had smaller discrepancies. Alginoplast resulted in more difference than the other impressions (P<.05). For Line 2, the total mean difference of Impregum was statistically different from the other impressions. Significant differences were observed in Line 1 and Line 2 for the different storage periods (P<.05). CONCLUSION The dimensional accuracy of impression material is clinically acceptable if the impression material is stored in suitable conditions. PMID:27826388

Microgravity

NASA Image and Video Library

2004-04-15

Computed tomography (CT) images of resin-impregnated Mechanics of Granular Materials (MGM) specimens are assembled to provide 3-D volume renderings of density patterns formed by dislocation under the external loading stress profile applied during the experiments. Experiments flown on STS-79 and STS-89. Principal Investigator: Dr. Stein Sture

Computed Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castellano, Isabel; Geleijns, Jacob

After its clinical introduction in 1973, computed tomography developed from an x-ray modality for axial imaging in neuroradiology into a versatile three dimensional imaging modality for a wide range of applications in for example oncology, vascular radiology, cardiology, traumatology and even in interventional radiology. Computed tomography is applied for diagnosis, follow-up studies and screening of healthy subpopulations with specific risk factors. This chapter provides a general introduction in computed tomography, covering a short history of computed tomography, technology, image quality, dosimetry, room shielding, quality control and quality criteria.

Assessment of the Airway Characteristics in Children with Cleft Lip and Palate using Cone Beam Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Marwah, Nikhil

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of our study is to use cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to assess the dimensional changes in the nasopharyngeal soft-tissue characteristics in children of Indian origin with repaired cleft lip and palate (CLP) and to compare the results with patients with ideal occlusion. Materials and methods: A sample of 20 children (10 girls, 10 boys) with repaired CLP was selected. Cone beam computed tomography scans were taken to measure the nasopharyngeal airway changes in terms of linear measurements and sagittal cross-sectional areas. Error analysis was performed to prevent systematic or random errors. Independent means t-tests and Pearson correlation analysis were used to evaluate sex differences and the correlations among the variables. Results: Nasopharyngeal soft-tissue characteristics were different in the control and the study groups. Subjects with repaired CLP had lesser lower aerial width, lower adenoidal width and lower airway width. The upper airway width was also significantly lesser. The retropalatal and the total airway area were significantly greater in the control group. Conclusion: The narrow pharyngeal airway in patients with CLP might result in functional impairment of breathing in patients. Further investigations are necessary to clarify the relationship between pharyngeal structure and airway function in patients with CLP. How to cite this article: Agarwal A, Marwah N. Assessment of the Airway Characteristics in Children with Cleft Lip and Palate using Cone Beam Computed Tomography. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2016;9(1):5-9. PMID:27274147

An Investigation of the Morphology of the Petrotympanic Fissure Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Syriopoulos, Konstantinos; Sens, Rogier L.; Politis, Constantinus

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT Objectives The purpose of the present study was: a) to examine the visibility and morphology of the petrotympanic fissure on cone-beam computed tomography images, and b) to investigate whether the petrotympanic fissure morphology is significantly affected by gender and age, or not. Material and Methods Using Newtom VGi (QR Verona, Italy), 106 cone-beam computed tomography examinations (212 temporomandibular joint areas) of both genders were retrospectively and randomly selected. Two observers examined the images and subsequently classified by consensus the petrotympanic fissure morphology into the following three types: type 1 - widely open; type 2 - narrow middle; type 3 - very narrow/closed. Results The petrotympanic fissure morphology was assessed as type 1, type 2, and type 3 in 85 (40.1%), 72 (34.0%), and 55 (25.9%) cases, respectively. No significant difference was found between left and right petrotympanic fissure morphology (Kappa = 0.37; P < 0.001). Furthermore, no significant difference was found between genders, specifically P = 0.264 and P = 0.211 for the right and left petrotympanic fissure morphology, respectively. However, the ordinal logistic regression analysis showed that males tend to have narrower petrotympanic fissures, in particular OR = 1.58 for right and OR = 1.5 for left petrotympanic fissure. Conclusions The current study lends support to the conclusion that an enhanced multi-planar cone-beam computed tomography yields a clear depiction of the petrotympanic fissure's morphological characteristics. We have found that the morphology is neither gender nor age-related. PMID:29707183

Use of Computed Tomography for Characterizing Materials Grown Terrestrially and in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gillies, Donald C.; Engel, H. P.

2001-01-01

The purpose behind this work is to provide NASA Principal Investigators (PIs) rapid information, nondestructively, about their samples. This information will be in the form of density values throughout the samples, especially within slices 1 mm high. With correct interpretation and good calibration, these values will enable the PI to obtain macro chemical compositional analysis for his/her samples. Alternatively, the technique will provide information about the porosity level and its distribution within the sample. Experience gained with a NASA Microgravity Research Division-sponsored Advanced Technology Development (ATD) project on this topic has brought the technique to a level of maturity at which it has become a viable characterization tool for many of the Materials Science Pls, but with equipment that could never be supported within their own facilities. The existing computed tomography (CT) facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is ideally situated to furnish information rapidly and conveniently to PIs, particularly immediately before and after flight missions.

Use of Computed Tomography for Characterizing Materials Grown Terrestrially and in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gillies, Donald C.; Engel, H. P.

2000-01-01

The purpose behind this work is to provide NASA Principal Investigators (PI) rapid information, non-destructively, about their samples. This information will be in the form of density values throughout the samples, especially within slices 1 mm high. With correct interpretation and good calibration, these values will enable the PI to obtain macro chemical compositional analysis for his/her samples. Alternatively, the technique will provide information about the porosity level and its distribution within the sample. Experience gained with a NASA MRD-sponsored Advanced Technology Development (ATD) project on this topic has brought the technique to a level of maturity at which it has become a viable characterization tool for many of the Materials Science PIs, but with equipment that could never be supported within their own facilities. The existing computed tomography (CT) facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is ideally situated to furnish information rapidly and conveniently to PIs, particularly immediately before and after flight missions.

A Kullback-Leibler approach for 3D reconstruction of spectral CT data corrupted by Poisson noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hohweiller, Tom; Ducros, Nicolas; Peyrin, Françoise; Sixou, Bruno

2017-09-01

While standard computed tomography (CT) data do not depend on energy, spectral computed tomography (SPCT) acquire energy-resolved data, which allows material decomposition of the object of interest. Decompo- sitions in the projection domain allow creating projection mass density (PMD) per materials. From decomposed projections, a tomographic reconstruction creates 3D material density volume. The decomposition is made pos- sible by minimizing a cost function. The variational approach is preferred since this is an ill-posed non-linear inverse problem. Moreover, noise plays a critical role when decomposing data. That is why in this paper, a new data fidelity term is used to take into account of the photonic noise. In this work two data fidelity terms were investigated: a weighted least squares (WLS) term, adapted to Gaussian noise, and the Kullback-Leibler distance (KL), adapted to Poisson noise. A regularized Gauss-Newton algorithm minimizes the cost function iteratively. Both methods decompose materials from a numerical phantom of a mouse. Soft tissues and bones are decomposed in the projection domain; then a tomographic reconstruction creates a 3D material density volume for each material. Comparing relative errors, KL is shown to outperform WLS for low photon counts, in 2D and 3D. This new method could be of particular interest when low-dose acquisitions are performed.

Investigation of the effects of storage time on the dimensional accuracy of impression materials using cone beam computed tomography.

PubMed

Alkurt, Murat; Yeşıl Duymus, Zeynep; Dedeoglu, Numan

2016-10-01

The storage conditions of impressions affect the dimensional accuracy of the impression materials. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of storage time on dimensional accuracy of five different impression materials by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Polyether (Impregum), hydrocolloid (Hydrogum and Alginoplast), and silicone (Zetaflow and Honigum) impression materials were used for impressions taken from an acrylic master model. The impressions were poured and subjected to four different storage times: immediate use, and 1, 3, and 5 days of storage. Line 1 (between right and left first molar mesiobuccal cusp tips) and Line 2 (between right and left canine tips) were measured on a CBCT scanned model, and time dependent mean differences were analyzed by two-way univariate and Duncan's test (α=.05). For Line 1, the total mean difference of Impregum and Hydrogum were statistically different from Alginoplast ( P <.05), while Zetaflow and Honigum had smaller discrepancies. Alginoplast resulted in more difference than the other impressions ( P <.05). For Line 2, the total mean difference of Impregum was statistically different from the other impressions. Significant differences were observed in Line 1 and Line 2 for the different storage periods ( P <.05). The dimensional accuracy of impression material is clinically acceptable if the impression material is stored in suitable conditions.

Fast estimation of first-order scattering in a medical x-ray computed tomography scanner using a ray-tracing technique.

PubMed

Liu, Xin

2014-01-01

This study describes a deterministic method for simulating the first-order scattering in a medical computed tomography scanner. The method was developed based on a physics model of x-ray photon interactions with matter and a ray tracing technique. The results from simulated scattering were compared to the ones from an actual scattering measurement. Two phantoms with homogeneous and heterogeneous material distributions were used in the scattering simulation and measurement. It was found that the simulated scatter profile was in agreement with the measurement result, with an average difference of 25% or less. Finally, tomographic images with artifacts caused by scatter were corrected based on the simulated scatter profiles. The image quality improved significantly.

Do C-reactive protein level, white blood cell count, and pain location guide the selection of patients for computed tomography imaging in non-traumatic acute abdomen?

PubMed

Ozan, E; Atac, G K; Evrin, T; Alisar, K; Sonmez, L O; Alhan, A

2017-02-01

The value of abdominal computed tomography in non-traumatic abdominal pain has been well established. On the other hand, to manage computed tomography, appropriateness has become more of an issue as a result of the concomitant increase in patient radiation exposure with increased computed tomography use. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether C-reactive protein, white blood cell count, and pain location may guide the selection of patients for computed tomography in non-traumatic acute abdomen. Patients presenting with acute abdomen to the emergency department over a 12-month period and who subsequently underwent computed tomography were retrospectively reviewed. Those with serum C-reactive protein and white blood cell count measured on admission or within 24 h of the computed tomography were selected. Computed tomography examinations were retrospectively reviewed, and final diagnoses were designated either positive or negative for pathology relating to presentation with acute abdomen. White blood cell counts, C-reactive protein levels, and pain locations were analyzed to determine whether they increased or decreased the likelihood of producing a diagnostic computed tomography. The likelihood ratio for computed tomography positivity with a C-reactive protein level above 5 mg/L was 1.71, while this increased to 7.71 in patients with combined elevated C-reactive protein level and white blood cell count and right lower quadrant pain. Combined elevated C-reactive protein level and white blood cell count in patients with right lower quadrant pain may represent a potential factor that could guide the decision to perform computed tomography in non-traumatic acute abdomen.

Compton imaging tomography technique for NDE of large nonuniform structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grubsky, Victor; Romanov, Volodymyr; Patton, Ned; Jannson, Tomasz

2011-09-01

In this paper we describe a new nondestructive evaluation (NDE) technique called Compton Imaging Tomography (CIT) for reconstructing the complete three-dimensional internal structure of an object, based on the registration of multiple two-dimensional Compton-scattered x-ray images of the object. CIT provides high resolution and sensitivity with virtually any material, including lightweight structures and organics, which normally pose problems in conventional x-ray computed tomography because of low contrast. The CIT technique requires only one-sided access to the object, has no limitation on the object's size, and can be applied to high-resolution real-time in situ NDE of large aircraft/spacecraft structures and components. Theoretical and experimental results will be presented.

X-ray tomography system to investigate granular materials during mechanical loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Athanassiadis, Athanasios G.; La Rivière, Patrick J.; Sidky, Emil; Pelizzari, Charles; Pan, Xiaochuan; Jaeger, Heinrich M.

2014-08-01

We integrate a small and portable medical x-ray device with mechanical testing equipment to enable in situ, non-invasive measurements of a granular material's response to mechanical loading. We employ an orthopedic C-arm as the x-ray source and detector to image samples mounted in the materials tester. We discuss the design of a custom rotation stage, which allows for sample rotation and tomographic reconstruction under applied compressive stress. We then discuss the calibration of the system for 3D computed tomography, as well as the subsequent image reconstruction process. Using this system to reconstruct packings of 3D-printed particles, we resolve packing features with 0.52 mm resolution in a (60 mm)3 field of view. By analyzing the performance bounds of the system, we demonstrate that the reconstructions exhibit only moderate noise.

[Quantitative assessment on artifacts of dental restorative materials in cone beam computed tomography].

PubMed

Yuan, Fu-song; Sun, Yu-chun; Xie, Xiao-yan; Wang, Yong; Lv, Pei-jun

2013-12-18

To quantitatively evaluate the artifacts appearance of eight kinds of common dental restorative materials, such as zirconia. For the full-crown tooth preparation of mandibular first molar, eight kinds of full-crowns, such as zirconia all-ceramic crown, glass ceramic crown, ceramage crown, Au-Pt based porcelain-fused-metal (PFM) crown, Pure Titanium PFM crown, Co-Cr PFM crown, Ni-Cr PFM crown, and Au-Pd metal crown were fabricated. And natural teeth in vitro were used as controls. These full-crown and natural teeth in vitro were mounted an ultraviolet-curable resin fixed plate. High resolution cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to scan all of the crowns and natural teeth in vitro, and their DICOM data were imported into software MIMICS 10.0. Then, the number of stripes and the maximum diameters of artifacts around the full-crowns were evaluated quantitatively in two-dimensional tomography images. In the two-dimensional tomography images,the artifacts did not appear around the natural teeth in vitro, glass ceramic crown, and ceramage crown. But thr artifacts appeared around the zirconia all-ceramic and metal crown. The number of stripes of artifacts was five to nine per one crown. The maximum diameters of the artifacts were 2.4 to 2.6 cm and 2.2 to 2.7 cm. In the two-dimensional tomography images of CBCT, stripe-like and radical artifacts were caused around the zirconia all-ceramic crown and metal based porcelain-fused-metal crowns. These artifacts could lower the imaging quality of the full crown shape greatly. The artifact was not caused around the natural teeth in vitro, glass ceramic crown, and ceramage crown.

Early Dose Response to Yttrium-90 Microsphere Treatment of Metastatic Liver Cancer by a Patient-Specific Method Using Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography and Positron Emission Tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Campbell, Janice M.; Department of Radiation Oncology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI; Wong, C. Oliver

2009-05-01

Purpose: To evaluate a patient-specific single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)-based method of dose calculation for treatment planning of yttrium-90 ({sup 90}Y) microsphere selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT). Methods and Materials: Fourteen consecutive {sup 90}Y SIRTs for colorectal liver metastasis were retrospectively analyzed. Absorbed dose to tumor and normal liver tissue was calculated by partition methods with two different tumor/normal liver vascularity ratios: an average 3:1 and a patient-specific ratio derived from pretreatment technetium-99m macroaggregated albumin SPECT. Tumor response was quantitatively evaluated from fluorine-18 fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography scans. Results: Positron emission tomography showed a significant decrease in total tumor standardizedmore » uptake value (average, 52%). There was a significant difference in the tumor absorbed dose between the average and specific methods (p = 0.009). Response vs. dose curves fit by linear and linear-quadratic modeling showed similar results. Linear fit r values increased for all tumor response parameters with the specific method (+0.20 for mean standardized uptake value). Conclusion: Tumor dose calculated with the patient-specific method was more predictive of response in liver-directed {sup 90}Y SIRT.« less

Selection of stationary phase particle geometry using X-ray computed tomography and computational fluid dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Schmidt, Irma; Minceva, Mirjana; Arlt, Wolfgang

2012-02-17

The X-ray computed tomography (CT) is used to determine local parameters related to the column packing homogeneity and hydrodynamics in columns packed with spherically and irregularly shaped particles of same size. The results showed that the variation of porosity and axial dispersion coefficient along the column axis is insignificant, compared to their radial distribution. The methodology of using the data attained by CT measurements to perform a CFD simulation of a batch separation of model binary mixtures, with different concentration and separation factors is demonstrated. The results of the CFD simulation study show that columns packed with spherically shaped particles provide higher yield in comparison to columns packed with irregularly shaped particles only below a certain value of the separation factor. The presented methodology can be used for selecting a suited packing material for a particular separation task. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Limitations of PET/CT in the Detection of Occult N1 Metastasis in Clinical Stage I(T1-2aN0) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer for Staging Prior to Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy

PubMed Central

Akthar, Adil S.; Ferguson, Mark K.; Koshy, Matthew; Vigneswaran, Wickii T.

2016-01-01

Purpose/Objectives: Patients receiving stereotactic body radiotherapy for stage I non-small cell lung cancer are typically staged clinically with positron emission tomography–computed tomography. Currently, limited data exist for the detection of occult hilar/peribronchial (N1) disease. We hypothesize that positron emission tomography–computed tomography underestimates spread of cancer to N1 lymph nodes and that future stereotactic body radiotherapy patients may benefit from increased pathologic evaluation of N1 nodal stations in addition to N2 nodes. Materials/Methods: A retrospective study was performed of all patients with clinical stage I (T1-2aN0) non-small cell lung cancer (American Joint Committee on Cancer, 7th edition) by positron emission tomography–computed tomography at our institution from 2003 to 2011, with subsequent surgical resection and lymph node staging. Findings on positron emission tomography–computed tomography were compared to pathologic nodal involvement to determine the negative predictive value of positron emission tomography–computed tomography for the detection of N1 nodal disease. An analysis was conducted to identify predictors of occult spread. Results: A total of 105 patients with clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer were included in this study, of which 8 (7.6%) patients were found to have occult N1 metastasis on pathologic review yielding a negative predictive value for N1 disease of 92.4%. No patients had occult mediastinal nodes. The negative predictive value for positron emission tomography–computed tomography in patients with clinical stage T1 versus T2 tumors was 72 (96%) of 75 versus 25 (83%) of 30, respectively (P = .03), and for peripheral versus central tumor location was 77 (98%) of 78 versus 20 (74%) of 27, respectively (P = .0001). The negative predictive values for peripheral T1 and T2 tumors were 98% and 100%, respectively; while for central T1 and T2 tumors, the rates were 85% and 64%, respectively. Occult lymph node involvement was not associated with primary tumor maximum standard uptake value, histology, grade, or interval between positron emission tomography–computed tomography and surgery. Conclusion: Our results support pathologic assessment of N1 lymph nodes in patients with stage Inon-small cell lung cancer considered for stereotactic body radiotherapy, with the greatest benefit in patients with central and T2 tumors. Diagnostic evaluation with endoscopic bronchial ultrasound should be considered in the evaluation of stereotactic body radiotherapy candidates. PMID:26792491

Three-dimensional evaluation of effectiveness of hand and rotary instrumentation for retreatment of canals filled with different materials.

PubMed

Hammad, Mohammad; Qualtrough, Alison; Silikas, Nick

2008-11-01

The aim of this study was to measure the remaining filling volume of different obturation materials from root-filled extracted teeth by using 2 removal techniques. Eighty single-rooted teeth were collected and decoronated, and the root canal was prepared by using the ProTaper nickel-titanium rotary files. The teeth were randomly allocated into 4 groups, and each group was obturated by using a different material. Group 1 was filled with gutta-percha and TubliSeal sealer, group 2 was filled with EndoRez points and EndoRez sealer, group 3 was filled with RealSeal points and RealSeal sealer, and Group 4 was filled with a gutta-percha point and GuttaFlow sealer. Teeth were scanned with a micro-computed tomography scan, and then root fillings were removed by using ProTaper retreatment files or hand K-files. Teeth were scanned again, and volume measurements were carried out with micro-computed tomography software. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between the 2 removal techniques for gutta-percha and for both techniques between gutta-percha and the other groups. The present study showed that all tested filling materials were not completely removed during retreatment by using hand or rotary files. Gutta-percha was more efficiently removed by using hand K-files.

Computed tomography vs. digital radiography assessment for detection of osteolysis in asymptomatic patients with uncemented cups: a proposal for a new classification system based on computer tomography.

PubMed

Sandgren, Buster; Crafoord, Joakim; Garellick, Göran; Carlsson, Lars; Weidenhielm, Lars; Olivecrona, Henrik

2013-10-01

Digital radiographic images in the anterior-posterior and lateral view have been gold standard for evaluation of peri-acetabular osteolysis for patients with an uncemented hip replacement. We compared digital radiographic images and computer tomography in detection of peri-acetabular osteolysis and devised a classification system based on computer tomography. Digital radiographs were compared with computer tomography on 206 hips, with a mean follow up 10 years after surgery. The patients had no clinical signs of osteolysis and none were planned for revision surgery. On digital radiographs, 192 cases had no osteolysis and only 14 cases had osteolysis. When using computer tomography there were 184 cases showing small or large osteolysis and only 22 patients had no osteolysis. A classification system for peri-acetabular osteolysis is proposed based on computer tomography that is easy to use on standard follow up evaluation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment of the Role of Different Imaging Modalities with Emphasis on Fdg Pet/Ct in the Management of Well Differentiated Thyroid Cancer (WDTC).

PubMed

Kendi A, Tuba Karagulle; Mudalegundi, Shwetha; Switchenko, Jeffrey; Lee, Daniel; Halkar, Raghuveer; Chen, Amy Y

2016-01-01

Positron emission tomography/computed tomography is suggested to have a role in detection of iodine negative recurrence in well differentiated thyroid cancer. The aim of this study is to identify role of different imaging modalities in the management of well differentiated thyroid cancer. We reviewed 900 well differentiated thyroid cancer patients after post-thyroidectomy who underwent recombinant human thyroid stimulating hormone stimulated Sodium Iodide I 131 imaging. Out of 900 patients, 74 had positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Multivariate analysis was performed by controlling positron emission tomography/computed tomography, Sodium Iodide I 131 scan, neck ultrasonography, age, sex, primary tumor size, stage, histology, thyroglobulin. Patients were grouped according to results of Sodium Iodide I 131 scan and positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography was positive in 23 of 74 patients. The sensitivity for positron emission tomography was 11/11(100%), the specificity was 51/63 (81.0%), the positive predictive value was 11/23 (47.8%), and the negative predictive value was 51/51 (100%). The sensitivity for the neck ultrasonography was 4/8 (50%), the specificity was 53/60 (88.3%), positive predictive value was 4/11 (36.4%), and negative predictive value was 53/57 (93.0%). 50% of patients who had Sodium Iodide I 131 negative scan and positive positron emission tomography/computed tomography had a change in management. Thirty-six percent with positive neck ultrasonography had a change in management. Out of 11 recurrences, 6 had distant metastatic disease, and 5/11 had regional nodal disease. Neck ultrasonography showed nodal metastasis in 4/5 (80%). Positron emission tomography/computed tomography altered management in the presence of a high thyroglobulin level and a negative Sodium Iodide I 131 scan. Neck ultrasonography should be the first line of imaging with rising thyroglobulin levels. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography should be considered for cases with high thyroglobulin levels and normal neck ultrasonography to look for distant metastatic disease.

A method for evaluating the murine pulmonary vasculature using micro-computed tomography.

PubMed

Phillips, Michael R; Moore, Scott M; Shah, Mansi; Lee, Clara; Lee, Yueh Z; Faber, James E; McLean, Sean E

2017-01-01

Significant mortality and morbidity are associated with alterations in the pulmonary vasculature. While techniques have been described for quantitative morphometry of whole-lung arterial trees in larger animals, no methods have been described in mice. We report a method for the quantitative assessment of murine pulmonary arterial vasculature using high-resolution computed tomography scanning. Mice were harvested at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 3 months of age. The pulmonary artery vascular tree was pressure perfused to maximal dilation with a radio-opaque casting material with viscosity and pressure set to prevent capillary transit and venous filling. The lungs were fixed and scanned on a specimen computed tomography scanner at 8-μm resolution, and the vessels were segmented. Vessels were grouped into categories based on lumen diameter and branch generation. Robust high-resolution segmentation was achieved, permitting detailed quantitation of pulmonary vascular morphometrics. As expected, postnatal lung development was associated with progressive increase in small-vessel number and arterial branching complexity. These methods for quantitative analysis of the pulmonary vasculature in postnatal and adult mice provide a useful tool for the evaluation of mouse models of disease that affect the pulmonary vasculature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

New applications of x-ray tomography in pyrolysis of biomass: biochar imaging

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

We report on the first ever use of non-destructive micrometer-scale synchrotron computed microtomography for characterization of biochar materials as a function of pyrolysis temperature. Using this innovative approach we have observed an increase in marcropore fraction of the sample, resulting in 29...

Body CT (CAT Scan)

MedlinePlus

... Resources Professions Site Index A-Z Computed Tomography (CT) - Body Computed tomography (CT) of the body uses ... of CT Scanning of the Body? What is CT Scanning of the Body? Computed tomography, more commonly ...

Effect of object location on the density measurement in cone-beam computed tomography versus multislice computed tomography

PubMed Central

Eskandarloo, Amir; Abdinian, Mehrdad; Salemi, Fatemeh; Hashemzadeh, Zahra; Safaei, Mehran

2012-01-01

Background: Bone density measurement in a radiographic view is a valuable method for evaluating the density of bone quality before performing some dental procedures such as, dental implant placements. It seems that Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) can be used as a diagnostic tool for evaluating the density of the bone, prior to any treatment, as the reported radiation dose in this method is minimal. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of object location on the density measurement in CBCT versus Multislice computed tomography (CT). Materials and Methods: In an experimental study, three samples with similar dimensions, but different compositions, different densities (Polyethylene, Polyamide, Polyvinyl Chloride), and three bone pieces of different parts of the mandibular bone were imaged in three different positions by CBCT and Multislice CT sets. The average density value was computed for each sample in each position. Then the data obtained from each CBCT was converted to a Hounsfield unit and evaluated using a single variable T analysis. A P value <0.05 was considered to be significant. Results: The density in a Multislice CT is stable in the form of a Hounsfield Number, but this density is variable in the images acquired through CBCT, and the change in the position results in significant changes in the density. In this study, a statistically significant difference (P value = 0.000) has been observed for the position of the sample and its density in CBCT in comparison to Multislice CT. Conclusions: Density values in CBCT are not real because they are affected by the position of the object in the machine. PMID:23814567

68Ga/177Lu-labeled DOTA-TATE shows similar imaging and biodistribution in neuroendocrine tumor model.

PubMed

Liu, Fei; Zhu, Hua; Yu, Jiangyuan; Han, Xuedi; Xie, Qinghua; Liu, Teli; Xia, Chuanqin; Li, Nan; Yang, Zhi

2017-06-01

Somatostatin receptors are overexpressed in neuroendocrine tumors, whose endogenous ligands are somatostatin. DOTA-TATE is an analogue of somatostatin, which shows high binding affinity to somatostatin receptors. We aim to evaluate the 68 Ga/ 177 Lu-labeling DOTA-TATE kit in neuroendocrine tumor model for molecular imaging and to try human-positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging of 68 Ga-DOTA-TATE in neuroendocrine tumor patients. DOTA-TATE kits were formulated and radiolabeled with 68 Ga/ 177 Lu for 68 Ga/ 177 Lu-DOTA-TATE (M-DOTA-TATE). In vitro and in vivo stability of 177 Lu-DOTA-TATE were performed. Nude mice bearing human tumors were injected with 68 Ga-DOTA-TATE or 177 Lu-DOTA-TATE for micro-positron emission tomography and micro-single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography imaging separately, and clinical positron emission tomography/computed tomography images of 68 Ga-DOTA-TATE were obtained at 1 h post-intravenous injection from patients with neuroendocrine tumors. Micro-positron emission tomography and micro-single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography imaging of 68 Ga-DOTA-TATE and 177 Lu-DOTA-TATE both showed clear tumor uptake which could be blocked by excess DOTA-TATE. In addition, 68 Ga-DOTA-TATE-positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging in neuroendocrine tumor patients could show primary and metastatic lesions. 68 Ga-DOTA-TATE and 177 Lu-DOTA-TATE could accumulate in tumors in animal models, paving the way for better clinical peptide receptor radionuclide therapy for neuroendocrine tumor patients in Asian population.

3D analysis of macrosegregation in twin-roll cast AA3003 alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Šlapáková, Michaela, E-mail: slapakova@karlov.mff.

Twin-roll cast aluminium alloys have a high potential for industrial applications. However, one of the drawbacks of such materials is an inhomogeneous structure generated by macrosegregation, which appears under certain conditions in the center of sheets during solidification. Segregations in AA3003 alloy form as manganese, iron and silicon rich channels spread in the rolling direction. Their spatial distribution was successfully detected by X-ray computed tomography. Scanning electron microscopy was used for a detailed observation of microstructure, morphology and chemical analysis of the segregation. - Highlights: •Macrosegregations in twin-roll cast sheets stretch along the rolling direction. •X-ray computed tomography is anmore » effective tool for visualization of the segregation. •The segregations copy the shape of grain boundaries.« less

A framework for optimizing micro-CT in dual-modality micro-CT/XFCT small-animal imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vedantham, Srinivasan; Shrestha, Suman; Karellas, Andrew; Cho, Sang Hyun

2017-09-01

Dual-modality Computed Tomography (CT)/X-ray Fluorescence Computed Tomography (XFCT) can be a valuable tool for imaging and quantifying the organ and tissue distribution of small concentrations of high atomic number materials in small-animal system. In this work, the framework for optimizing the micro-CT imaging system component of the dual-modality system is described, either when the micro-CT images are concurrently acquired with XFCT and using the x-ray spectral conditions for XFCT, or when the micro-CT images are acquired sequentially and independently of XFCT. This framework utilizes the cascaded systems analysis for task-specific determination of the detectability index using numerical observer models at a given radiation dose, where the radiation dose is determined using Monte Carlo simulations.

A Micro-Computed Tomography Technique to Study the Quality of Fibre Optics Embedded in Composite Materials

PubMed Central

Chiesura, Gabriele; Luyckx, Geert; Voet, Eli; Lammens, Nicolas; Van Paepegem, Wim; Degrieck, Joris; Dierick, Manuel; Van Hoorebeke, Luc; Vanderniepen, Pieter; Sulejmani, Sanne; Sonnenfeld, Camille; Geernaert, Thomas; Berghmans, Francis

2015-01-01

Quality of embedment of optical fibre sensors in carbon fibre-reinforced polymers plays an important role in the resultant properties of the composite, as well as for the correct monitoring of the structure. Therefore, availability of a tool able to check the optical fibre sensor-composite interaction becomes essential. High-resolution 3D X-ray Micro-Computed Tomography, or Micro-CT, is a relatively new non-destructive inspection technique which enables investigations of the internal structure of a sample without actually compromising its integrity. In this work the feasibility of inspecting the position, the orientation and, more generally, the quality of the embedment of an optical fibre sensor in a carbon fibre reinforced laminate at unit cell level have been proven. PMID:25961383

Self-Inflicted Drywall Screws in the Sagittal Sinus.

PubMed

Guppy, Kern H; Ochi, Calvin

2018-02-01

A 30-year-old right-handed man with a history of schizophrenia presented with 2 self-inflicted drywall screws in the skull. The patient was sleepy but easily arousable; blood tests showed he had taken methamphetamines. Computed tomography and computed tomography angiography of the head showed the frontal screw abutted left of the superior sagittal sinus, and the posterior screw went through the superior sagittal sinus with no extravasation of contrast material at either site. Both screws were removed with exposure of the sagittal sinus using U-shaped craniectomies. There was no bleeding on the removal of the screws. It appears the posterior screw entered between the leaflets of the sagittal sinus dura mater. The patient had returned to work without any sequelae 1 month after injury. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

X-ray tomography system to investigate granular materials during mechanical loading

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Athanassiadis, Athanasios G.; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139; La Rivière, Patrick J.

2014-08-15

We integrate a small and portable medical x-ray device with mechanical testing equipment to enable in situ, non-invasive measurements of a granular material's response to mechanical loading. We employ an orthopedic C-arm as the x-ray source and detector to image samples mounted in the materials tester. We discuss the design of a custom rotation stage, which allows for sample rotation and tomographic reconstruction under applied compressive stress. We then discuss the calibration of the system for 3D computed tomography, as well as the subsequent image reconstruction process. Using this system to reconstruct packings of 3D-printed particles, we resolve packing featuresmore » with 0.52 mm resolution in a (60 mm){sup 3} field of view. By analyzing the performance bounds of the system, we demonstrate that the reconstructions exhibit only moderate noise.« less

Dual-Energy Computed Tomography in Cardiothoracic Vascular Imaging.

PubMed

De Santis, Domenico; Eid, Marwen; De Cecco, Carlo N; Jacobs, Brian E; Albrecht, Moritz H; Varga-Szemes, Akos; Tesche, Christian; Caruso, Damiano; Laghi, Andrea; Schoepf, Uwe Joseph

2018-07-01

Dual energy computed tomography is becoming increasingly widespread in clinical practice. It can expand on the traditional density-based data achievable with single energy computed tomography by adding novel applications to help reach a more accurate diagnosis. The implementation of this technology in cardiothoracic vascular imaging allows for improved image contrast, metal artifact reduction, generation of virtual unenhanced images, virtual calcium subtraction techniques, cardiac and pulmonary perfusion evaluation, and plaque characterization. The improved diagnostic performance afforded by dual energy computed tomography is not associated with an increased radiation dose. This review provides an overview of dual energy computed tomography cardiothoracic vascular applications. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Computed tomography assessment of the efficiency of different techniques for removal of root canal filling material.

PubMed

Dall'Agnol, Cristina; Hartmann, Mateus Silveira Martins; Barletta, Fernando Branco

2008-01-01

This study evaluated the efficiency of different techniques for removal of filling material from root canals, using computed tomography (CT). Sixty mesial roots from extracted human mandibular molars were used. Root canals were filled and, after 6 months, the teeth were randomly assigned to 3 groups, according to the root-filling removal technique: Group A - hand instrumentation with K-type files; Group B - reciprocating instrumentation with engine-driven K-type files; and Group C rotary instrumentation with engine-driven ProTaper system. CT scans were used to assess the volume of filling material inside the root canals before and after the removal procedure. In both moments, the area of filling material was outlined by an experienced radiologist and the volume of filling material was automatically calculated by the CT software program. Based on the volume of initial and residual filling material of each specimen, the percentage of filling material removed from the root canals by the different techniques was calculated. Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and chi-square test for linear trend (?=0.05). No statistically significant difference (p=0.36) was found among the groups regarding the percent means of removed filling material. The analysis of the association between the percentage of filling material removal (high or low) and the proposed techniques by chi-square test showed statistically significant difference (p=0.015), as most cases in group B (reciprocating technique) presented less than 50% of filling material removed (low percent removal). In conclusion, none of the techniques evaluated in this study was effective in providing complete removal of filling material from the root canals.

Radiographic, microcomputer tomography, and optical coherence tomography investigations of ceramic interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinescu, Cosmin; Negrutiu, Meda Lavinia; Ionita, Ciprian; Topala, Florin; Petrescu, Emanuela; Rominu, Roxana; Pop, Daniela Maria; Marsavina, Liviu; Negru, Radu; Bradu, Adrian; Rominu, Mihai; Podoleanu, Adrian Gh.

2010-12-01

Imagistic investigation of the metal-ceramic crowns and fixed partial prostheses represent a very important issue in nowadays dentistry. At this time, in dental office, it is difficult or even impossible to evaluate a metal ceramic crown or bridge before setting it in the oral cavity. The possibilities of ceramic fractures are due to small fracture lines or material defects inside the esthetic layers. Material and methods: In this study 25 metal ceramic crowns and fixed partial prostheses were investigated by radiographic method (Rx), micro computer tomography (MicroCT) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) working in Time Domain, at 1300 nm. The OCT system contains two interferometers and one scanner. For each incident analysis a stuck made of 100 slices was obtain. These slices were used in order to obtain a 3D model of the ceramic interface. Results: RX and MicroCT are very powerful instruments that provide a good characterization of the dental construct. It is important to observe the reflections due to the metal infrastructure that could affect the evaluation of the metal ceramic crowns and bridges. The OCT investigations could complete the imagistic evaluation of the dental construct by offering important information when it is need it.

A Freeware Path to Neutron Computed Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schillinger, Burkhard; Craft, Aaron E.

Neutron computed tomography has become a routine method at many neutron sources due to the availability of digital detection systems, powerful computers and advanced software. The commercial packages Octopus by Inside Matters and VGStudio by Volume Graphics have been established as a quasi-standard for high-end computed tomography. However, these packages require a stiff investment and are available to the users only on-site at the imaging facility to do their data processing. There is a demand from users to have image processing software at home to do further data processing; in addition, neutron computed tomography is now being introduced even at smaller and older reactors. Operators need to show a first working tomography setup before they can obtain a budget to build an advanced tomography system. Several packages are available on the web for free; however, these have been developed for X-rays or synchrotron radiation and are not immediately useable for neutron computed tomography. Three reconstruction packages and three 3D-viewers have been identified and used even for Gigabyte datasets. This paper is not a scientific publication in the classic sense, but is intended as a review to provide searchable help to make the described packages usable for the tomography community. It presents the necessary additional preprocessing in ImageJ, some workarounds for bugs in the software, and undocumented or badly documented parameters that need to be adapted for neutron computed tomography. The result is a slightly complicated, but surprisingly high-quality path to neutron computed tomography images in 3D, but not a replacement for the even more powerful commercial software mentioned above.

Nonlinear inversion of borehole-radar tomography data to reconstruct velocity and attenuation distribution in earth materials

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zhou, C.; Liu, L.; Lane, J.W.

2001-01-01

A nonlinear tomographic inversion method that uses first-arrival travel-time and amplitude-spectra information from cross-hole radar measurements was developed to simultaneously reconstruct electromagnetic velocity and attenuation distribution in earth materials. Inversion methods were developed to analyze single cross-hole tomography surveys and differential tomography surveys. Assuming the earth behaves as a linear system, the inversion methods do not require estimation of source radiation pattern, receiver coupling, or geometrical spreading. The data analysis and tomographic inversion algorithm were applied to synthetic test data and to cross-hole radar field data provided by the US Geological Survey (USGS). The cross-hole radar field data were acquired at the USGS fractured-rock field research site at Mirror Lake near Thornton, New Hampshire, before and after injection of a saline tracer, to monitor the transport of electrically conductive fluids in the image plane. Results from the synthetic data test demonstrate the algorithm computational efficiency and indicate that the method robustly can reconstruct electromagnetic (EM) wave velocity and attenuation distribution in earth materials. The field test results outline zones of velocity and attenuation anomalies consistent with the finding of previous investigators; however, the tomograms appear to be quite smooth. Further work is needed to effectively find the optimal smoothness criterion in applying the Tikhonov regularization in the nonlinear inversion algorithms for cross-hole radar tomography. ?? 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography in suspected lesions in the posterior cranial fossa.

PubMed Central

Teasdale, G. M.; Hadley, D. M.; Lawrence, A.; Bone, I.; Burton, H.; Grant, R.; Condon, B.; Macpherson, P.; Rowan, J.

1989-01-01

OBJECTIVE--To compare computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in investigating patients suspected of having a lesion in the posterior cranial fossa. DESIGN--Randomised allocation of newly referred patients to undergo either computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging; the alternative investigation was performed subsequently only in response to a request from the referring doctor. SETTING--A regional neuroscience centre serving 2.7 million. PATIENTS--1020 Patients recruited between April 1986 and December 1987, all suspected by neurologists, neurosurgeons, or other specialists of having a lesion in the posterior fossa and referred for neuroradiology. The groups allocated to undergo computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging were well matched in distributions of age, sex, specialty of referring doctor, investigation as an inpatient or an outpatient, suspected site of lesion, and presumed disease process; the referring doctor's confidence in the initial clinical diagnosis was also similar. INTERVENTIONS--After the patients had been imaged by either computed tomography or magnetic resonance (using a resistive magnet of 0.15 T) doctors were given the radiologist's report and a form asking if they considered that imaging with the alternative technique was necessary and, if so, why; it also asked for their current diagnoses and their confidence in them. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES--Number of requests for the alternative method of investigation. Assessment of characteristics of patients for whom further imaging was requested and lesions that were suspected initially and how the results of the second imaging affected clinicians' and radiologists' opinions. RESULTS--Ninety three of the 501 patients who initially underwent computed tomography were referred subsequently for magnetic resonance imaging whereas only 28 of the 493 patients who initially underwent magnetic resonance imaging were referred subsequently for computed tomography. Over the study the number of patients referred for magnetic resonance imaging after computed tomography increased but requests for computed tomography after magnetic resonance imaging decreased. The reason that clinicians gave most commonly for requesting further imaging by magnetic resonance was that the results of the initial computed tomography failed to exclude their suspected diagnosis (64 patients). This was less common in patients investigated initially by magnetic resonance imaging (eight patients). Management of 28 patients (6%) imaged initially with computed tomography and 12 patients (2%) imaged initially with magnetic resonance was changed on the basis of the results of the alternative imaging. CONCLUSIONS--Magnetic resonance imaging provided doctors with the information required to manage patients suspected of having a lesion in the posterior fossa more commonly than computed tomography, but computed tomography alone was satisfactory in 80% of cases... PMID:2506965

Simulation of FIB-SEM images for analysis of porous microstructures.

PubMed

Prill, Torben; Schladitz, Katja

2013-01-01

Focused ion beam nanotomography-scanning electron microscopy tomography yields high-quality three-dimensional images of materials microstructures at the nanometer scale combining serial sectioning using a focused ion beam with SEM. However, FIB-SEM tomography of highly porous media leads to shine-through artifacts preventing automatic segmentation of the solid component. We simulate the SEM process in order to generate synthetic FIB-SEM image data for developing and validating segmentation methods. Monte-Carlo techniques yield accurate results, but are too slow for the simulation of FIB-SEM tomography requiring hundreds of SEM images for one dataset alone. Nevertheless, a quasi-analytic description of the specimen and various acceleration techniques, including a track compression algorithm and an acceleration for the simulation of secondary electrons, cut down the computing time by orders of magnitude, allowing for the first time to simulate FIB-SEM tomography. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Correlative Tomography

PubMed Central

Burnett, T. L.; McDonald, S. A.; Gholinia, A.; Geurts, R.; Janus, M.; Slater, T.; Haigh, S. J.; Ornek, C.; Almuaili, F.; Engelberg, D. L.; Thompson, G. E.; Withers, P. J.

2014-01-01

Increasingly researchers are looking to bring together perspectives across multiple scales, or to combine insights from different techniques, for the same region of interest. To this end, correlative microscopy has already yielded substantial new insights in two dimensions (2D). Here we develop correlative tomography where the correlative task is somewhat more challenging because the volume of interest is typically hidden beneath the sample surface. We have threaded together x-ray computed tomography, serial section FIB-SEM tomography, electron backscatter diffraction and finally TEM elemental analysis all for the same 3D region. This has allowed observation of the competition between pitting corrosion and intergranular corrosion at multiple scales revealing the structural hierarchy, crystallography and chemistry of veiled corrosion pits in stainless steel. With automated correlative workflows and co-visualization of the multi-scale or multi-modal datasets the technique promises to provide insights across biological, geological and materials science that are impossible using either individual or multiple uncorrelated techniques. PMID:24736640

Geoscience Applications of Synchrotron X-ray Computed Microtomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rivers, M. L.

2009-05-01

Computed microtomography is the extension to micron spatial resolution of the CAT scanning technique developed for medical imaging. Synchrotron sources are ideal for the method, since they provide a monochromatic, parallel beam with high intensity. High energy storage rings such as the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory produce x-rays with high energy, high brilliance, and high coherence. All of these factors combine to produce an extremely powerful imaging tool for earth science research. Techniques that have been developed include: - Absorption and phase contrast computed tomography with spatial resolution approaching one micron - Differential contrast computed tomography, imaging above and below the absorption edge of a particular element - High-pressure tomography, imaging inside a pressure cell at pressures above 10GPa - High speed radiography, with 100 microsecond temporal resolution - Fluorescence tomography, imaging the 3-D distribution of elements present at ppm concentrations. - Radiographic strain measurements during deformation at high confining pressure, combined with precise x- ray diffraction measurements to determine stress. These techniques have been applied to important problems in earth and environmental sciences, including: - The 3-D distribution of aqueous and organic liquids in porous media, with applications in contaminated groundwater and petroleum recovery. - The kinetics of bubble formation in magma chambers, which control explosive volcanism. - Accurate crystal size distributions in volcanic systems, important for understanding the evolution of magma chambers. - The equation-of-state of amorphous materials at high pressure using both direct measurements of volume as a function of pressure and also by measuring the change x-ray absorption coefficient as a function of pressure. - The formation of frost flowers on Arctic sea-ice, which is important in controlling the atmospheric chemistry of mercury. - The distribution of cracks in rocks at potential nuclear waste repositories. - The location and chemical speciation of toxic elements such as arsenic and nickel in soils and in plant tissues in contaminated Superfund sites. - The strength of earth materials under the pressure and temperature conditions of the Earth's mantle, providing insights into plate tectonics and the generation of earthquakes.

Congruence Between Pulmonary Function and Computed Tomography Imaging Assessment of Cystic Fibrosis Severity.

PubMed

Rybacka, Anna; Goździk-Spychalska, Joanna; Rybacki, Adam; Piorunek, Tomasz; Batura-Gabryel, Halina; Karmelita-Katulska, Katarzyna

2018-05-04

In cystic fibrosis, pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and computed tomography are used to assess lung function and structure, respectively. Although both techniques of assessment are congruent there are lingering doubts about which PFTs variables show the best congruence with computed tomography scoring. In this study we addressed the issue by reinvestigating the association between PFTs variables and the score of changes seen in computed tomography scans in patients with cystic fibrosis with and without pulmonary exacerbation. This retrospective study comprised 40 patients in whom PFTs and computed tomography were performed no longer than 3 weeks apart. Images (inspiratory: 0.625 mm slice thickness, 0.625 mm interval; expiratory: 1.250 mm slice thickness, 10 mm interval) were evaluated with the Bhalla scoring system. The most frequent structural abnormality found in scans were bronchiectases and peribronchial thickening. The strongest relationship was found between the Bhalla sore and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1). The Bhalla sore also was related to forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC ratio, residual volume (RV), and RV/total lung capacity (TLC) ratio. We conclude that lung structural data obtained from the computed tomography examination are highly congruent to lung function data. Thus, computed tomography imaging may supersede functional assessment in cases of poor compliance with spirometry procedures in the lederly or children. Computed tomography also seems more sensitive than PFTs in the assessment of cystic fibrosis progression. Moreover, in early phases of cystic fibrosis, computed tomography, due to its excellent resolution, may be irreplaceable in monitoring pulmonary damage.

SCCT guidelines for the performance and acquisition of coronary computed tomographic angiography: A report of the society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines Committee: Endorsed by the North American Society for Cardiovascular Imaging (NASCI).

PubMed

Abbara, Suhny; Blanke, Philipp; Maroules, Christopher D; Cheezum, Michael; Choi, Andrew D; Han, B Kelly; Marwan, Mohamed; Naoum, Chris; Norgaard, Bjarne L; Rubinshtein, Ronen; Schoenhagen, Paul; Villines, Todd; Leipsic, Jonathon

In response to recent technological advancements in acquisition techniques as well as a growing body of evidence regarding the optimal performance of coronary computed tomography angiography (coronary CTA), the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines Committee has produced this update to its previously established 2009 "Guidelines for the Performance of Coronary CTA" (1). The purpose of this document is to provide standards meant to ensure reliable practice methods and quality outcomes based on the best available data in order to improve the diagnostic care of patients. Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines for the Interpretation is published separately (2). The Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Guidelines Committee ensures compliance with all existing standards for the declaration of conflict of interest by all authors and reviewers for the purpose ofclarity and transparency. Copyright © 2016 Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography. All rights reserved.

Angle Statistics Reconstruction: a robust reconstruction algorithm for Muon Scattering Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stapleton, M.; Burns, J.; Quillin, S.; Steer, C.

2014-11-01

Muon Scattering Tomography (MST) is a technique for using the scattering of cosmic ray muons to probe the contents of enclosed volumes. As a muon passes through material it undergoes multiple Coulomb scattering, where the amount of scattering is dependent on the density and atomic number of the material as well as the path length. Hence, MST has been proposed as a means of imaging dense materials, for instance to detect special nuclear material in cargo containers. Algorithms are required to generate an accurate reconstruction of the material density inside the volume from the muon scattering information and some have already been proposed, most notably the Point of Closest Approach (PoCA) and Maximum Likelihood/Expectation Maximisation (MLEM) algorithms. However, whilst PoCA-based algorithms are easy to implement, they perform rather poorly in practice. Conversely, MLEM is a complicated algorithm to implement and computationally intensive and there is currently no published, fast and easily-implementable algorithm that performs well in practice. In this paper, we first provide a detailed analysis of the source of inaccuracy in PoCA-based algorithms. We then motivate an alternative method, based on ideas first laid out by Morris et al, presenting and fully specifying an algorithm that performs well against simulations of realistic scenarios. We argue this new algorithm should be adopted by developers of Muon Scattering Tomography as an alternative to PoCA.

CT Imaging of Hardwood Logs for Lumber Production

Treesearch

Daniel L. Schmoldt; Pei Li; A. Lynn Abbott

1996-01-01

Hardwood sawmill operators need to improve the conversion of raw material (logs) into lumber. Internal log scanning provides detailed information that can aid log processors in improving lumber recovery. However, scanner data (i.e. tomographic images) need to be analyzed prior to presentation to saw operators. Automatic labeling of computer tomography (CT) images is...

Impurity precipitation in atomized particles evidenced by nano x-ray diffraction computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonnin, Anne; Wright, Jonathan P.; Tucoulou, Rémi; Palancher, Hervé

2014-08-01

Performances and physical properties of high technology materials are influenced or even determined by their initial microstructure and by the behavior of impurity phases. Characterizing these impurities and their relations with the surrounding matrix is therefore of primary importance but it unfortunately often requires a destructive approach, with the risk of misinterpreting the observations. The improvement we have done in high resolution X-ray diffraction computed tomography combined with the use of an X-ray nanoprobe allows non-destructive crystallographic description of materials with microscopic heterogeneous microstructure (with a grain size between 10 nm and 10 μm). In this study, the grain localization in a 2D slice of a 20 μm solidified atomized γU-Mo particle is shown and a minority U(C,O) phase (1 wt. %) with sub-micrometer sized grains was characterized inside. Evidence is presented showing that the onset of U(C,O) grain crystallization can be described by a precipitation mechanism since one single U-Mo grain has direct orientation relationship with more than one surrounding U(C,O) grains.

Application of multidetector-row computed tomography in propeller flap planning.

PubMed

Ono, Shimpei; Chung, Kevin C; Hayashi, Hiromitsu; Ogawa, Rei; Takami, Yoshihiro; Hyakusoku, Hiko

2011-02-01

The propeller flap is defined as (1) being island-shaped, (2) having an axis that includes the perforators, and (3) having the ability to be rotated around an axis. The advantage of the propeller flap is that it is a pedicle flap that can be applied to cover defects located at the distal ends of the extremities. The specific aims of the authors' study were (1) to evaluate the usefulness of multidetector-row computed tomography in the planning of propeller flaps and (2) to present a clinical case series of propeller flap reconstructions that were planned preoperatively using multidetector-row computed tomography. The authors retrospectively analyzed all cases between April of 2007 and April of 2010 at Nippon Medical School Hospital in Tokyo, where multidetector-row computed tomography was used preoperatively to plan surgical reconstructions using propeller flaps. Thirteen patients underwent 16 flaps using the propeller flap technique. The perforators were identified accurately by multidetector-row computed tomography preoperatively in all cases. This is the first report describing the application of multidetector-row computed tomography in the planning of propeller flaps. Multidetector-row computed tomography is superior to other imaging methods because it demonstrates more precisely the perforator's position and subcutaneous course using high-resolution three-dimensional images. By using multidetector-row computed tomography to preoperatively identify a flap's perforators, the surgeon can better plan the flap design to efficiently conduct the flap surgery.

High resolution 3D laboratory x-ray tomography data of femora from young, 1-14 day old C57BL/6 mice.

PubMed

Bortel, Emely L; Duda, Georg N; Mundlos, Stefan; Willie, Bettina M; Fratzl, Peter; Zaslansky, Paul

2015-09-01

This data article contains high resolution (1.2 µm effective pixel size) lab-based micro-computed tomography (µCT) reconstructed volume data of the femoral mid-shafts from young C57BL/6 mice. This data formed the basis for the analyses of bone structural development in healthy mice, including closed and open porosity as reported in Bortel et al. [1]. The data reveals changes seen in bone material and porosity distribution observed when mouse bones transform from porous scaffolds into solid structures during normal organogenesis.

WE-FG-207B-02: Material Reconstruction for Spectral Computed Tomography with Detector Response Function

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, J; Gao, H

2016-06-15

Purpose: Different from the conventional computed tomography (CT), spectral CT based on energy-resolved photon-counting detectors is able to provide the unprecedented material composition. However, an important missing piece for accurate spectral CT is to incorporate the detector response function (DRF), which is distorted by factors such as pulse pileup and charge-sharing. In this work, we propose material reconstruction methods for spectral CT with DRF. Methods: The polyenergetic X-ray forward model takes the DRF into account for accurate material reconstruction. Two image reconstruction methods are proposed: a direct method based on the nonlinear data fidelity from DRF-based forward model; a linear-data-fidelitymore » based method that relies on the spectral rebinning so that the corresponding DRF matrix is invertible. Then the image reconstruction problem is regularized with the isotropic TV term and solved by alternating direction method of multipliers. Results: The simulation results suggest that the proposed methods provided more accurate material compositions than the standard method without DRF. Moreover, the proposed method with linear data fidelity had improved reconstruction quality from the proposed method with nonlinear data fidelity. Conclusion: We have proposed material reconstruction methods for spectral CT with DRF, whichprovided more accurate material compositions than the standard methods without DRF. Moreover, the proposed method with linear data fidelity had improved reconstruction quality from the proposed method with nonlinear data fidelity. Jiulong Liu and Hao Gao were partially supported by the NSFC (#11405105), the 973 Program (#2015CB856000), and the Shanghai Pujiang Talent Program (#14PJ1404500).« less

Comparison of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of canine intranasal neoplasia.

PubMed

Drees, R; Forrest, L J; Chappell, R

2009-07-01

Canine intranasal neoplasia is commonly evaluated using computed tomography to indicate the diagnosis, to determine disease extent, to guide histological sampling location and to plan treatment. With the expanding use of magnetic resonance imaging in veterinary medicine, this modality has been recently applied for the same purpose. The aim of this study was to compare the features of canine intranasal neoplasia using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Twenty-one dogs with confirmed intranasal neoplasia underwent both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The images were reviewed retrospectively for the bony and soft tissue features of intranasal neoplasia. Overall computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging performed very similarly. However, lysis of bones bordering the nasal cavity and mucosal thickening was found on computed tomography images more often than on magnetic resonance images. Small amounts of fluid in the nasal cavity were more often seen on magnetic resonance images. However, fluid in the frontal sinuses was seen equally well with both modalities. We conclude that computed tomography is satisfactory for evaluation of canine intranasal neoplasia, and no clinically relevant benefit is gained using magnetic resonance imaging for intranasal neoplasia without extent into the cranial cavity.

F-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Appearance of Extramedullary Hematopoesis in a Case of Primary Myelofibrosis

PubMed Central

Mukherjee, Anirban; Bal, Chandrasekhar; Tripathi, Madhavi; Das, Chandan Jyoti; Shamim, Shamim Ahmed

2017-01-01

A 44-year-old female with known primary myelofibrosis presented with shortness of breath. High Resolution Computed Tomography thorax revealed large heterogeneously enhancing extraparenchymal soft tissue density mass involving bilateral lung fields. F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography revealed mildly FDG avid soft tissue density mass with specks of calcification involving bilateral lung fields, liver, and spleen. Subsequent histopathologic evaluation from the right lung mass was suggestive of extramedullary hematopoesis. PMID:28533647

Woodmetrics: imaging devices and processes in wood inspection at Lulea University of Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagman, Olle

1999-09-01

Wood Technology research and education at Lulea University of Technology is located in Skelleftea 800 km north of Stockholm. At the campus about 25 persons are involved in education and research in Wood Technology. We are educating M.Sc. and post- graduate students in Wood Technology. The research at the campus includes the following main fields: -- Wood Machining - - Woodmetrics -- Wood Drying -- Wood Composites/Wood Material Science. Our research strategy is to obtain an individual treatment of every tree, board and piece of wood in order to get highest possible value for the forest products. This shall be accomplished by the aid of advanced scanning technology and computer technology. Woodmetrics means to measure different wood parameters in order to optimize the utilization of the raw material. Today we have the following projects in this field: Automatic wood inspection -- Color changes and moisture flow in drying processes -- Inner quality of logs and lumber - - Stem quality database -- Computer tomography -- Aesthetic properties of wood -- Market/industry/forest relations. In the Woodmetrics field we are using computer tomography, CCD cameras and other sensors in order to find and measure defects in trees and on boards. The signals are analyzed and classified with modern image analyzing techniques and advanced statistical methods.

Simulation tools for scattering corrections in spectrally resolved x-ray computed tomography using McXtrace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Busi, Matteo; Olsen, Ulrik L.; Knudsen, Erik B.; Frisvad, Jeppe R.; Kehres, Jan; Dreier, Erik S.; Khalil, Mohamad; Haldrup, Kristoffer

2018-03-01

Spectral computed tomography is an emerging imaging method that involves using recently developed energy discriminating photon-counting detectors (PCDs). This technique enables measurements at isolated high-energy ranges, in which the dominating undergoing interaction between the x-ray and the sample is the incoherent scattering. The scattered radiation causes a loss of contrast in the results, and its correction has proven to be a complex problem, due to its dependence on energy, material composition, and geometry. Monte Carlo simulations can utilize a physical model to estimate the scattering contribution to the signal, at the cost of high computational time. We present a fast Monte Carlo simulation tool, based on McXtrace, to predict the energy resolved radiation being scattered and absorbed by objects of complex shapes. We validate the tool through measurements using a CdTe single PCD (Multix ME-100) and use it for scattering correction in a simulation of a spectral CT. We found the correction to account for up to 7% relative amplification in the reconstructed linear attenuation. It is a useful tool for x-ray CT to obtain a more accurate material discrimination, especially in the high-energy range, where the incoherent scattering interactions become prevailing (>50 keV).

Cone beam computed tomography in the diagnosis of dental disease.

PubMed

Tetradis, Sotirios; Anstey, Paul; Graff-Radford, Steven

2011-07-01

Conventional radiographs provide important information for dental disease diagnosis. However, they represent 2-D images of 3-D objects with significant structure superimposition and unpredictable magnification. Cone beam computed tomography, however, allows true 3-D visualization of the dentoalveolar structures, avoiding major limitations of conventional radiographs. Cone beam computed tomography images offer great advantages in disease detection for selected patients. The authors discuss cone beam computed tomography applications in dental disease diagnosis, reviewing the pertinent literature when available.

A synchrotron-based local computed tomography combined with data-constrained modelling approach for quantitative analysis of anthracite coal microstructure

PubMed Central

Chen, Wen Hao; Yang, Sam Y. S.; Xiao, Ti Qiao; Mayo, Sherry C.; Wang, Yu Dan; Wang, Hai Peng

2014-01-01

Quantifying three-dimensional spatial distributions of pores and material compositions in samples is a key materials characterization challenge, particularly in samples where compositions are distributed across a range of length scales, and where such compositions have similar X-ray absorption properties, such as in coal. Consequently, obtaining detailed information within sub-regions of a multi-length-scale sample by conventional approaches may not provide the resolution and level of detail one might desire. Herein, an approach for quantitative high-definition determination of material compositions from X-ray local computed tomography combined with a data-constrained modelling method is proposed. The approach is capable of dramatically improving the spatial resolution and enabling finer details within a region of interest of a sample larger than the field of view to be revealed than by using conventional techniques. A coal sample containing distributions of porosity and several mineral compositions is employed to demonstrate the approach. The optimal experimental parameters are pre-analyzed. The quantitative results demonstrated that the approach can reveal significantly finer details of compositional distributions in the sample region of interest. The elevated spatial resolution is crucial for coal-bed methane reservoir evaluation and understanding the transformation of the minerals during coal processing. The method is generic and can be applied for three-dimensional compositional characterization of other materials. PMID:24763649

Dental image replacement on cone beam computed tomography with three-dimensional optical scanning of a dental cast, occlusal bite, or bite tray impression.

PubMed

Kang, S-H; Lee, J-W; Lim, S-H; Kim, Y-H; Kim, M-K

2014-10-01

The goal of the present study was to compare the accuracy of dental image replacement on a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) image using digital image data from three-dimensional (3D) optical scanning of a dental cast, occlusal bite, and bite tray impression. A Bracket Typodont dental model was used. CBCT of the dental model was performed and the data were converted to stereolithography (STL) format. Three experimental materials, a dental cast, occlusal bite, and bite tray impression, were optically scanned in 3D. STL files converted from the CBCT of the Typodont model and the 3D optical-scanned STL files of the study materials were image-registered. The error range of each methodology was measured and compared with a 3D optical scan of the Typodont. For the three materials, the smallest error observed was 0.099±0.114mm (mean error±standard deviation) for registering the 3D optical scan image of the dental cast onto the CBCT dental image. Although producing a dental cast can be laborious, the study results indicate that it is the preferred method. In addition, an occlusal bite is recommended when bite impression materials are used. Copyright © 2014 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiscale tomographic analysis of heterogeneous cast Al-Si-X alloys.

PubMed

Asghar, Z; Requena, G; Sket, F

2015-07-01

The three-dimensional microstructure of cast AlSi12Ni and AlSi10Cu5Ni2 alloys is investigated by laboratory X-ray computed tomography, synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography, light optical tomography and synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography with submicrometre resolution. The results obtained with each technique are correlated with the size of the scanned volumes and resolved microstructural features. Laboratory X-ray computed tomography is sufficient to resolve highly absorbing aluminides but eutectic and primary Si remain unrevealed. Synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography at ID15/ESRF gives better spatial resolution and reveals primary Si in addition to aluminides. Synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography at ID19/ESRF reveals all the phases ≥ ∼1 μm in volumes about 80 times smaller than laboratory X-ray computed tomography. The volumes investigated by light optical tomography and submicrometre synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography are much smaller than laboratory X-ray computed tomography but both techniques provide local chemical information on the types of aluminides. The complementary techniques applied enable a full three-dimensional characterization of the microstructure of the alloys at length scales ranging over six orders of magnitude. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Characterization and analysis of Porous, Brittle solid structures by X-ray micro computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, C. L.; Videla, A. R.; Yu, Q.; Miller, J. D.

2010-12-01

The internal structure of porous, brittle solid structures, such as porous rock, foam metal and wallboard, is extremely complex. For example, in the case of wallboard, the air bubble size and the thickness/composition of the wall structure are spatial parameters that vary significantly and influence mechanical, thermal, and acoustical properties. In this regard, the complex geometry and the internal texture of material, such as wallboard, is characterized and analyzed in 3-D using cone beam x-ray micro computed tomography. Geometrical features of the porous brittle structure are quantitatively analyzed based on calibration of the x-ray linear attenuation coefficient, use of a 3-D watershed algorithm, and use of a 3-D skeletonization procedure. Several examples of the 3-D analysis for porous, wallboard structures are presented and the results discussed.

Human thyroid specimen imaging by fluorescent x-ray computed tomography with synchrotron radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeda, Tohoru; Yu, Quanwen; Yashiro, Toru; Yuasa, Tetsuya; Hasegawa, Yasuo; Itai, Yuji; Akatsuka, Takao

1999-09-01

Fluorescent x-ray computed tomography (FXCT) is being developed to detect non-radioactive contrast materials in living specimens. The FXCT system consists of a silicon (111) channel cut monochromator, an x-ray slit and a collimator for fluorescent x ray detection, a scanning table for the target organ and an x-ray detector for fluorescent x-ray and transmission x-ray. To reduce Compton scattering overlapped on the fluorescent K(alpha) line, incident monochromatic x-ray was set at 37 keV. The FXCT clearly imaged a human thyroid gland and iodine content was estimated quantitatively. In a case of hyperthyroidism, the two-dimensional distribution of iodine content was not uniform, and thyroid cancer had a small amount of iodine. FXCT can be used to detect iodine within thyroid gland quantitatively and to delineate its distribution.

Electromagnetic Navigational Bronchoscopy Reduces the Time Required for Localization and Resection of Lung Nodules.

PubMed

Bolton, William David; Cochran, Thomas; Ben-Or, Sharon; Stephenson, James E; Ellis, William; Hale, Allyson L; Binks, Andrew P

The aims of the study were to evaluate electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) and computed tomography-guided placement as localization techniques for minimally invasive resection of small pulmonary nodules and determine whether electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy is a safer and more effective method than computed tomography-guided localization. We performed a retrospective review of our thoracic surgery database to identify patients who underwent minimally invasive resection for a pulmonary mass and used either electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy or computed tomography-guided localization techniques between July 2011 and May 2015. Three hundred eighty-three patients had a minimally invasive resection during our study period, 117 of whom underwent electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy or computed tomography localization (electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy = 81; computed tomography = 36). There was no significant difference between computed tomography and electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy patient groups with regard to age, sex, race, pathology, nodule size, or location. Both computed tomography and electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy were 100% successful at localizing the mass, and there was no difference in the type of definitive surgical resection (wedge, segmentectomy, or lobectomy) (P = 0.320). Postoperative complications occurred in 36% of all patients, but there were no complications related to the localization procedures. In terms of localization time and surgical time, there was no difference between groups. However, the down/wait time between localization and resection was significant (computed tomography = 189 minutes; electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy = 27 minutes); this explains why the difference in total time (sum of localization, down, and surgery) was significant (P < 0.001). We found electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy to be as safe and effective as computed tomography-guided wire placement and to provide a significantly decreased down time between localization and surgical resection.

TU-A-12A-08: Computing Longitudinal Material Changes in Bone Metastases Using Dual Energy Computed Tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schmidtlein, CR; Hwang, S; Veeraraghavan, H

Purpose: This study demonstrates a methodology for tracking changes in metastatic bone disease using trajectories in material basis space in serial dual energy computed tomography (DECT) studies. Methods: This study includes patients with bone metastases from breast cancer that had clinical surveillance CT scans using a General Electric CT750HD in dual energy mode. A radiologist defined regions-of-interested (ROI) for bone metastasis, normal bone, and marrow across the serial DECT scans. Our approach employs a Radon transform to forward-projection the basis images, namely, water and iodine, into sinogram space. This data is then repartitioned into fat/bone and effective density/Z image pairsmore » using assumed energy spectrums for the x-ray energies. This approach both helps remove negative material densities and avoids adding spectrum-hardening artifacts. These new basis data sets were then reconstructed via filtered back-projection to create new material basis pair images. The trajectories of these pairs were then plotted in the new basis space providing a means to both visualize and quantitatively measure changes in the material properties of the tumors. Results: ROI containing radiologist defined metastatic bone disease showed well-defined trajectories in both fat/bone and effective density/Z space. ROI that contained radiologist defined normal bone and marrow did not exhibit any discernible trajectories and were stable from scan to scan. Conclusions: The preliminary results show that changes in material composition and effective density/Z image pairs were seen primarily in metastasis and not in normal tissue. This study indicates that by using routine clinical DECT it may be possible to monitor therapy response of bone metastases because healing or worsening bone metastases change material composition of bone. Additional studies are needed to further validate these results and to test for their correlation with outcome.« less

Sinonasal papilloma: what influences the decision to request a magnetic resonance imaging scan?

PubMed

Kasbekar, A V; Swords, C; Attlmayr, B; Kulkarni, T; Swift, A C

2018-06-18

Computed tomography is the standard pre-operative imaging modality for sinonasal papilloma. The complementary use of magnetic resonance imaging as an additional investigation is debated. This study aimed to establish whether magnetic resonance imaging can accurately detect tumour extent and is a useful adjunct to computed tomography. A retrospective review was conducted on 19 patients with sinonasal papilloma. The interpretation of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans, by three clinicians, was conducted by comparing prediction of tumour extent. The perceived necessity of magnetic resonance imaging was compared between clinicians. The addition of magnetic resonance imaging improved accuracy of pre-operative interpretation; specifically, this finding was significant in cases with frontal sinus involvement. Surgeons were more likely than a radiologist to request magnetic resonance imaging, particularly when computed tomography indicated frontal sinus disease. Pre-operative combined magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography helped predict disease in the frontal sinus better than computed tomography alone. A close working relationship between the ENT and radiology departments is important for accurate tumour localisation.

Compton imaging tomography for nondestructive evaluation of spacecraft thermal protection systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romanov, Volodymyr; Burke, Eric; Grubsky, Victor

2017-02-01

Here we present new results of in situ nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of spacecraft thermal protection system materials obtained with POC-developed NDE tool based on a novel Compton Imaging Tomography (CIT) technique recently pioneered and patented by Physical Optics Corporation (POC). In general, CIT provides high-resolution three-dimensional Compton scattered X-ray imaging of the internal structure of evaluated objects, using a set of acquired two-dimensional Compton scattered X-ray images of consecutive cross sections of these objects. Unlike conventional computed tomography, CIT requires only one-sided access to objects, has no limitation on the dimensions and geometry of the objects, and can be applied to large multilayer non-uniform objects with complicated geometries. Also, CIT does not require any contact with the objects being imaged during its application.

Investigating lithium-ion battery materials during overcharge-induced thermal runaway: an operando and multi-scale X-ray CT study.

PubMed

Finegan, Donal P; Scheel, Mario; Robinson, James B; Tjaden, Bernhard; Di Michiel, Marco; Hinds, Gareth; Brett, Dan J L; Shearing, Paul R

2016-11-16

Catastrophic failure of lithium-ion batteries occurs across multiple length scales and over very short time periods. A combination of high-speed operando tomography, thermal imaging and electrochemical measurements is used to probe the degradation mechanisms leading up to overcharge-induced thermal runaway of a LiCoO 2 pouch cell, through its interrelated dynamic structural, thermal and electrical responses. Failure mechanisms across multiple length scales are explored using a post-mortem multi-scale tomography approach, revealing significant morphological and phase changes in the LiCoO 2 electrode microstructure and location dependent degradation. This combined operando and multi-scale X-ray computed tomography (CT) technique is demonstrated as a comprehensive approach to understanding battery degradation and failure.

Computation of Calcium Score with Dual Energy CT: A Phantom Study

PubMed Central

Kumar, Vidhya; Min, James K.; He, Xin; Raman, Subha V.

2016-01-01

Dual energy computed tomography (DECT) improves material and tissue characterization compared to single energy CT (SECT); we sought to validate coronary calcium quantification in advancing cardiovascular DECT. In an anthropomorphic phantom, agreement between measurements was excellent, and Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated minimal bias. Compared to the known calcium mass for each phantom, calcium mass by DECT was highly accurate. Noncontrast DECT yields accurate calcium measures, and warrants consideration in cardiac protocols for additional tissue characterizations. PMID:27680414

Tomographic aspects of penetrating thoracic trauma: injuries from firearms and other weapons

PubMed Central

de Melo, Alessandro Severo Alves; Moreira, Luiza Beatriz Melo; Pessoa, Fernanda Miraldi Clemente; Saint-Martin, Nara; Ancilotti Filho, Roger; Souza Jr., Arthur Soares; Marchiori, Edson

2017-01-01

Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the various computed tomography findings in penetrating chest trauma, as well as to determine the frequency and extent of the lesions. Material and Methods We studied the computed tomography findings from 40 cases of penetrating thoracic trauma, of which 35 (85.8%) were gunshot wounds and 5 (14.2%) were caused by another type of weapon. Results Pulmonary lesions were found in 39 cases (97.5%), manifesting as contusions in 34 cases (85%), atelectasis in 8 (20%), lacerations in 1 (2.5%) and hematomas in 1 (2.5%). Hemothorax was seen in 31 cases (77.5%), and pneumothorax was seen in 22 cases (55%). Mediastinal lesions were observed in 8 cases (20%), including mediastinal hematoma in 3 cases (7.5%), hemopericardium in 3 (7.5%), and pneumomediastinum in 2 (5%). Diaphragmatic rupture was seen in 2 cases (5%). Conclusion In patients with penetrating thoracic trauma, computed tomography of the chest is an important tool for characterizing the affected organs and evaluating the path of injury, as well as the severity and extent of the lesions. The images obtained are also useful in estimating the risk of death and determining the best therapeutic approach. PMID:29307927

X-ray micro computed tomography characterization of cellular SiC foams for their applications in chemical engineering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ou, Xiaoxia

Open-cell SiC foams clearly are promising materials for continuous-flow chemical applications such as heterogeneous catalysis and distillation. X-ray micro computed tomography characterization of cellular β-SiC foams at a spatial voxel size of 13.6{sup 3} μm{sup 3} and the interpretation of morphological properties of SiC open-cell foams with implications to their transport properties are presented. Static liquid hold-up in SiC foams was investigated through in-situ draining experiments for the first time using the μ-CT technique providing thorough 3D information about the amount and distribution of liquid hold-up inside the foam. This will enable better modeling and design of structured reactors basedmore » on SiC foams in the future. In order to see more practical uses, μ-CT data of cellular foams must be exploited to optimize the design of the morphology of foams for a specific application. - Highlights: •Characterization of SiC foams using novel X-ray micro computed tomography. •Interpretation of structural properties of SiC foams regarding to their transport properties. •Static liquid hold-up analysis of SiC foams through in-situ draining experiments.« less

Usefulness of post mortem computed tomography versus conventional forensic autopsy of road accident victims (drivers and passengers).

PubMed

Moskała, Artur; Woźniak, Krzysztof; Kluza, Piotr; Romaszko, Karol; Lopatin, Oleksiy

2017-01-01

Aim of the study: Deaths of in-vehicle victims (drivers and passengers) of road accidents represent a significant group of issues addressed by forensic medicine. Expressing opinions in this regard involves first of all the determination of the cause of death and the forensic pathologist's participation in the process of road accident reconstruction through defining the mechanism of bodily harm. The scope of the opinion as well as its accuracy and degree of detail largely depend on the scope of forensic autopsy. In this context, techniques that broaden the capabilities of standard autopsy are of particular importance. This paper compares the results of post mortem computed tomography (PMCT) of road accident victims (drivers and passengers) against the results of standard examination in order to determine the scope to which PMCT significantly enhances autopsy capabilities. Material and methods: The analysis covers 118 in-vehicle victims (drivers and passengers) examined from 2012 to 2014. In each case, post-mortem examination was preceded by PMCT examination using Somatom Emotion 16 (Siemens AG, Germany). Results: The results are presented in a tabular form. Conclusions: In most road accident victims (drivers and passengers), post mortem computed tomography significantly increases the results' degree of detail, particularly with regard to injuries of bones and gas collections.

X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography visualizes the microstructure and degradation profile of implanted biodegradable scaffolds after spinal cord injury

PubMed Central

Takashima, Kenta; Hoshino, Masato; Uesugi, Kentaro; Yagi, Naoto; Matsuda, Shojiro; Nakahira, Atsushi; Osumi, Noriko; Kohzuki, Masahiro; Onodera, Hiroshi

2015-01-01

Tissue engineering strategies for spinal cord repair are a primary focus of translational medicine after spinal cord injury (SCI). Many tissue engineering strategies employ three-dimensional scaffolds, which are made of biodegradable materials and have microstructure incorporated with viable cells and bioactive molecules to promote new tissue generation and functional recovery after SCI. It is therefore important to develop an imaging system that visualizes both the microstructure of three-dimensional scaffolds and their degradation process after SCI. Here, X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography imaging based on the Talbot grating interferometer is described and it is shown how it can visualize the polyglycolic acid scaffold, including its microfibres, after implantation into the injured spinal cord. Furthermore, X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography images revealed that degradation occurred from the end to the centre of the braided scaffold in the 28 days after implantation into the injured spinal cord. The present report provides the first demonstration of an imaging technique that visualizes both the microstructure and degradation of biodegradable scaffolds in SCI research. X-ray phase-contrast imaging based on the Talbot grating interferometer is a versatile technique that can be used for a broad range of preclinical applications in tissue engineering strategies. PMID:25537600

Evaluation of the Root and Canal Morphology of Maxillary Permanent Molars and the Incidence of the Second Mesiobuccal Root Canal in Greek Population Using Cone-beam Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Nikoloudaki, Georgia E.; Kontogiannis, Taxiarchis G.; Kerezoudis, Nikolaos P.

2015-01-01

Objectives: Cone-Beam Computed Tomography is an alternative imaging technique which has been recently introduced in the field of Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology. It has rapidly gained great popularity among clinicians due to its ability to detect lesions and defects of the orofacial region and provide three-dimensional information about them. In the field of Endodontics, CBCT can be a useful tool to reveal tooth morphology irregularities, additional root canals and vertical root fractures. The objective of this study is to evaluate the root and root canal morphology of the maxillary permanent molars in Greek population using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography. Materials and Methods : 273 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were examined. The number of roots and root canals of the first and second maxillary molars were evaluated. Root canal configuration was classified according to Weine’s classification by two independent examiners and statistical analysis was performed. Results : A total of 812 molars (410 first and 402 second ones) were evaluated. The vast majority of both first and second molars had three roots (89.26% and 85.07%, respectively). Most first molars had four canals, while most second molars had three. In the mesiobuccal roots, one foramen was recorded in 80.91% of all teeth. Other rare morphologic variations were also found, such as fusion of a maxillary second molar with a supernumerary tooth. Conclusion : Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that more attention should be given to the detection of additional canals during root canal treatment in maxillary permanent molars. Towards this effort, CBCT can provide the clinician with supplemental information about the different root canal configurations for successful Root Canal Treatment. PMID:26464594

Quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography for technetium pertechnetate thyroid uptake measurement

PubMed Central

Lee, Hyunjong; Kim, Ji Hyun; Kang, Yeon-koo; Moon, Jae Hoon; So, Young; Lee, Won Woo

2016-01-01

Abstract Objectives: Technetium pertechnetate (99mTcO4) is a radioactive tracer used to assess thyroid function by thyroid uptake system (TUS). However, the TUS often fails to deliver accurate measurements of the percent of thyroid uptake (%thyroid uptake) of 99mTcO4. Here, we investigated the usefulness of quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) after injection of 99mTcO4 in detecting thyroid function abnormalities. Materials and methods: We retrospectively reviewed data from 50 patients (male:female = 15:35; age, 46.2 ± 16.3 years; 17 Graves disease, 13 thyroiditis, and 20 euthyroid). All patients underwent 99mTcO4 quantitative SPECT/CT (185 MBq = 5 mCi), which yielded %thyroid uptake and standardized uptake value (SUV). Twenty-one (10 Graves disease and 11 thyroiditis) of the 50 patients also underwent conventional %thyroid uptake measurements using a TUS. Results: Quantitative SPECT/CT parameters (%thyroid uptake, SUVmean, and SUVmax) were the highest in Graves disease, second highest in euthyroid, and lowest in thyroiditis (P < 0.0001, Kruskal–Wallis test). TUS significantly overestimated the %thyroid uptake compared with SPECT/CT (P < 0.0001, paired t test) because other 99mTcO4 sources in addition to thyroid, such as salivary glands and saliva, contributed to the %thyroid uptake result by TUS, whereas %thyroid uptake, SUVmean and SUVmax from the SPECT/CT were associated with the functional status of thyroid. Conclusions: Quantitative SPECT/CT is more accurate than conventional TUS for measuring 99mTcO4 %thyroid uptake. Quantitative measurements using SPECT/CT may facilitate more accurate assessment of thyroid tracer uptake. PMID:27399139

Projection decomposition algorithm for dual-energy computed tomography via deep neural network.

PubMed

Xu, Yifu; Yan, Bin; Chen, Jian; Zeng, Lei; Li, Lei

2018-03-15

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) has been widely used to improve identification of substances from different spectral information. Decomposition of the mixed test samples into two materials relies on a well-calibrated material decomposition function. This work aims to establish and validate a data-driven algorithm for estimation of the decomposition function. A deep neural network (DNN) consisting of two sub-nets is proposed to solve the projection decomposition problem. The compressing sub-net, substantially a stack auto-encoder (SAE), learns a compact representation of energy spectrum. The decomposing sub-net with a two-layer structure fits the nonlinear transform between energy projection and basic material thickness. The proposed DNN not only delivers image with lower standard deviation and higher quality in both simulated and real data, and also yields the best performance in cases mixed with photon noise. Moreover, DNN costs only 0.4 s to generate a decomposition solution of 360 × 512 size scale, which is about 200 times faster than the competing algorithms. The DNN model is applicable to the decomposition tasks with different dual energies. Experimental results demonstrated the strong function fitting ability of DNN. Thus, the Deep learning paradigm provides a promising approach to solve the nonlinear problem in DECT.

Neutron Radiography and Computed Tomography at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Raine, Dudley A. III; Hubbard, Camden R.; Whaley, Paul M.

1997-12-31

The capability to perform neutron radiography and computed tomography is being developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The facility will be located at the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR), which has the highest steady state neutron flux of any reactor in the world. The Monte Carlo N-Particle transport code (MCNP), versions 4A and 4B, has been used extensively in the design phase of the facility to predict and optimize the operating characteristics, and to ensure the safety of personnel working in and around the blockhouse. Neutrons are quite penetrating in most engineering materials and can be useful to detect internalmore » flaws and features. Hydrogen atoms, such as in a hydrocarbon fuel, lubricant or a metal hydride, are relatively opaque to neutron transmission. Thus, neutron based tomography or radiography is ideal to image their presence. The source flux also provides unparalleled flexibility for future upgrades, including real time radiography where dynamic processes can be observed. A novel tomography detector has been designed using optical fibers and digital technology to provide a large dynamic range for reconstructions. Film radiography is also available for high resolution imaging applications. This paper summarizes the results of the design phase of this facility and the potential benefits to science and industry.« less

Computer tomography of the neurocranium.

PubMed

Liliequist, B; Forssell, A

1976-07-01

The experience with computer tomography of the neurocranium in 300 patients submitted for computer tomography of the brain is reported. The more appropriate projections which may be obtained with the second generation of scanners in combination with an elaborated reconstruction technique seem to constitute a replacement of conventional skull films.

Computing effective properties of random heterogeneous materials on heterogeneous parallel processors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leidi, Tiziano; Scocchi, Giulio; Grossi, Loris; Pusterla, Simone; D'Angelo, Claudio; Thiran, Jean-Philippe; Ortona, Alberto

2012-11-01

In recent decades, finite element (FE) techniques have been extensively used for predicting effective properties of random heterogeneous materials. In the case of very complex microstructures, the choice of numerical methods for the solution of this problem can offer some advantages over classical analytical approaches, and it allows the use of digital images obtained from real material samples (e.g., using computed tomography). On the other hand, having a large number of elements is often necessary for properly describing complex microstructures, ultimately leading to extremely time-consuming computations and high memory requirements. With the final objective of reducing these limitations, we improved an existing freely available FE code for the computation of effective conductivity (electrical and thermal) of microstructure digital models. To allow execution on hardware combining multi-core CPUs and a GPU, we first translated the original algorithm from Fortran to C, and we subdivided it into software components. Then, we enhanced the C version of the algorithm for parallel processing with heterogeneous processors. With the goal of maximizing the obtained performances and limiting resource consumption, we utilized a software architecture based on stream processing, event-driven scheduling, and dynamic load balancing. The parallel processing version of the algorithm has been validated using a simple microstructure consisting of a single sphere located at the centre of a cubic box, yielding consistent results. Finally, the code was used for the calculation of the effective thermal conductivity of a digital model of a real sample (a ceramic foam obtained using X-ray computed tomography). On a computer equipped with dual hexa-core Intel Xeon X5670 processors and an NVIDIA Tesla C2050, the parallel application version features near to linear speed-up progression when using only the CPU cores. It executes more than 20 times faster when additionally using the GPU.

Evaluation of Promotional Materials To Promote Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) Screening to High-Risk Consumers and Health Care Providers.

PubMed

Hudson, Janella N; Quinn, Gwendolyn P; Wilson, Lauren E; Simmons, Vani N

2017-03-11

Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening is a promising screening modality for increasing the detection rate of early stage lung cancers among high-risk individuals. Despite being recommended by the US Preventative Services Task Force, uptake of LDCT remains low. The objective of the current study was to gather feedback from high-risk consumers and health care providers on LDCT promotional materials. Focus group discussions were conducted with high-risk individuals (8 focus groups; N = 38) and primary care providers (9 focus groups; N = 23). Participants reviewed existing LDCT promotional materials to assess their perceptions of media materials created to publicize LDCT. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method. Several key themes emerged from focus groups that can be used to inform development of future LDCT promotional materials. High-risk (HR) participants expressed greater receptivity for promotional materials that did not further stigmatize lung cancer and/or smoking and expressed preferences for materials that clearly outlined the risks/benefits of screening. Primary care providers (PCPs) offered suggestions to facilitate the referral process such as diagnostic codes and requested a design that clearly outlined eligibility criteria. A clear and thorough explanation of LDCT eligibility, cost, harms, and benefits was of chief importance for both PCP and HR audiences. Given that PCPs and HR audiences are not well informed on the specifics of LDCT screening eligibility and insurance coverage, creating provider and patient education opportunities will aid in shared decision-making opportunities. Promotional materials that meet the needs of the target audience are needed to facilitate discussions of risks/benefits of screening with HR individuals.

Using computed tomography and 3D printing to construct custom prosthetics attachments and devices.

PubMed

Liacouras, Peter C; Sahajwalla, Divya; Beachler, Mark D; Sleeman, Todd; Ho, Vincent B; Lichtenberger, John P

2017-01-01

The prosthetic devices the military uses to restore function and mobility to our wounded warriors are highly advanced, and in many instances not publically available. There is considerable research aimed at this population of young patients who are extremely active and desire to take part in numerous complex activities. While prosthetists design and manufacture numerous devices with standard materials and limb assemblies, patients often require individualized prosthetic design and/or modifications to enable them to participate fully in complex activities. Prosthetists and engineers perform research and implement digitally designs in collaboration to generate equipment for their patient's rehabilitation needs. 3D printing allows for these devices to be manufactured from an array of materials ranging from plastic to titanium alloy. Many designs require form fitting to a prosthetic socket or a complex surface geometry. Specialty items can be scanned using computed tomography and digitally reconstructed to produce a virtual 3D model the engineer can use to design the necessary features of the desired prosthetic, device, or attachment. Completed devices are tested for fit and function. Numerous custom prostheses and attachments have been successfully translated from the research domain to clinical reality, in particular, those that feature the use of computed tomography (CT) reconstructions. The purpose of this project is to describe the research pathways to implementation for the following clinical designs: sets of bilateral hockey skates; custom weightlifting prosthetic hands; and a wine glass holder. This article will demonstrate how to incorporate CT imaging and 3D printing in the design and manufacturing process of custom attachments and assistive technology devices. Even though some of these prosthesis attachments may be relatively simple in design to an engineer, they have an enormous impact on the lives of our wounded warriors.

Accuracy of CBCT for volumetric measurement of simulated periapical lesions.

PubMed

Ahlowalia, M S; Patel, S; Anwar, H M S; Cama, G; Austin, R S; Wilson, R; Mannocci, F

2013-06-01

To compare the accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and micro-computed tomography (μCT) when measuring the volume of bone cavities. Ten irregular-shaped cavities of varying dimensions were created in bovine bone specimens using a rotary diamond bur. The samples were then scanned using the Accuitomo 3D CBCT scanner. The scanned information was converted to the Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) format ready for analysis. Once formatted, 10 trained and calibrated examiners segmented the scans and measured the volumes of the lesions. Intra/interexaminer agreement was assessed by each examiner re-segmenting each scan after a 2-week interval. Micro-CT scans were analysed by a single examiner. To achieve a physical reading of the artificially created cavities, replicas were created using dimensionally stable silicone impression material. After measuring the mass of each impression sample, the volume was calculated by dividing the mass of each sample by the density of the set impression material. Further corroboration of these measurements was obtained by employing Archimedes' principle to measure the volume of each impression sample. Intraclass correlation was used to assess agreement. Both CBCT (mean volume: 175.9 mm3) and μCT (mean volume: 163.1 mm3) showed a high degree of agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.9) when compared to both weighed and 'Archimedes' principle' measurements (mean volume: 177.7 and 182.6 mm3, respectively). Cone beam computed tomography is an accurate means of measuring volume of artificially created bone cavities in an ex vivo model. This may provide a valuable tool for monitoring the healing rate of apical periodontitis; further investigations are warranted. © 2012 International Endodontic Journal. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Considerations for the Design of a Multi-Color High-Speed X-Ray Computed Tomography Diagnostic

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

bullet. At this time it was recognized that, because the geometry of the materials are known in three spatial dimensions, the Beer - Lambert law could...aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law , no person shall be subject to any penalty for failing to comply with a collection of

Material Characterization and Geometric Segmentation of a Composite Structure Using Microfocus X-Ray Computed Tomography Image-Based Finite Element Modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdul-Aziz, Ali; Roth, D. J.; Cotton, R.; Studor, George F.; Christiansen, Eric; Young, P. C.

2011-01-01

This study utilizes microfocus x-ray computed tomography (CT) slice sets to model and characterize the damage locations and sizes in thermal protection system materials that underwent impact testing. ScanIP/FE software is used to visualize and process the slice sets, followed by mesh generation on the segmented volumetric rendering. Then, the local stress fields around several of the damaged regions are calculated for realistic mission profiles that subject the sample to extreme temperature and other severe environmental conditions. The resulting stress fields are used to quantify damage severity and make an assessment as to whether damage that did not penetrate to the base material can still result in catastrophic failure of the structure. It is expected that this study will demonstrate that finite element modeling based on an accurate three-dimensional rendered model from a series of CT slices is an essential tool to quantify the internal macroscopic defects and damage of a complex system made out of thermal protection material. Results obtained showing details of segmented images; three-dimensional volume-rendered models, finite element meshes generated, and the resulting thermomechanical stress state due to impact loading for the material are presented and discussed. Further, this study is conducted to exhibit certain high-caliber capabilities that the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) group at NASA Glenn Research Center can offer to assist in assessing the structural durability of such highly specialized materials so improvements in their performance and capacities to handle harsh operating conditions can be made.

Italian Chapter of the International Society of Cardiovascular Ultrasound expert consensus document on coronary computed tomography angiography: overview and new insights.

PubMed

Sozzi, Fabiola B; Maiello, Maria; Pelliccia, Francesco; Parato, Vito Maurizio; Canetta, Ciro; Savino, Ketty; Lombardi, Federico; Palmiero, Pasquale

2016-09-01

Coronary computed tomography angiography is a noninvasive heart imaging test currently undergoing rapid development and advancement. The high resolution of the three-dimensional pictures of the moving heart and great vessels is performed during a coronary computed tomography to identify coronary artery disease and classify patient risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The technique provides useful information about the coronary tree and atherosclerotic plaques beyond simple luminal narrowing and plaque type defined by calcium content. This application will improve image-guided prevention, medical therapy, and coronary interventions. The ability to interpret coronary computed tomography images is of utmost importance as we develop personalized medical care to enable therapeutic interventions stratified on the bases of plaque characteristics. This overview provides available data and expert's recommendations in the utilization of coronary computed tomography findings. We focus on the use of coronary computed tomography to detect coronary artery disease and stratify patients at risk, illustrating the implications of this test on patient management. We describe its diagnostic power in identifying patients at higher risk to develop acute coronary syndrome and its prognostic significance. Finally, we highlight the features of the vulnerable plaques imaged by coronary computed tomography angiography. © 2016, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Comparison of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of canine intranasal neoplasia

PubMed Central

Drees, R.; Forrest, L. J.; Chappell, R.

2009-01-01

Objectives Canine intranasal neoplasia is commonly evaluated using computed tomography to indicate the diagnosis, to determine disease extent, to guide histological sampling location and to plan treatment. With the expanding use of magnetic resonance imaging in veterinary medicine, this modality has been recently applied for the same purpose. The aim of this study was to compare the features of canine intranasal neoplasia using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Methods Twenty-one dogs with confirmed intranasal neoplasia underwent both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The images were reviewed retrospectively for the bony and soft tissue features of intranasal neoplasia. Results Overall computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging performed very similarly. However, lysis of bones bordering the nasal cavity and mucosal thickening was found on computed tomography images more often than on magnetic resonance images. Small amounts of fluid in the nasal cavity were more often seen on magnetic resonance images. However, fluid in the frontal sinuses was seen equally well with both modalities. Clinical Significance We conclude that computed tomography is satisfactory for evaluation of canine intranasal neoplasia, and no clinically relevant benefit is gained using magnetic resonance imaging for intranasal neoplasia without extent into the cranial cavity. PMID:19508490

Measurement of Three-dimensional Density Distributions by Holographic Interferometry and Computer Tomography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vest, C. M.

1982-01-01

The use of holographic interferometry to measure two and threedimensional flows and the interpretation of multiple-view interferograms with computer tomography are discussed. Computational techniques developed for tomography are reviewed. Current research topics are outlined including the development of an automated fringe readout system, optimum reconstruction procedures for when an opaque test model is present in the field, and interferometry and tomography with strongly refracting fields and shocks.

Failure mechanisms in energy-absorbing composite structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Alastair F.; David, Matthew

2010-11-01

Quasi-static tests are described for determination of the energy-absorption properties of composite crash energy-absorbing segment elements under axial loads. Detailed computer tomography scans of failed specimens were used to identify local compression crush failure mechanisms at the crush front. These mechanisms are important for selecting composite materials for energy-absorbing structures, such as helicopter and aircraft sub-floors. Finite element models of the failure processes are described that could be the basis for materials selection and future design procedures for crashworthy structures.

Time-Domain Terahertz Computed Axial Tomography NDE System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zimdars, David

2012-01-01

NASA has identified the need for advanced non-destructive evaluation (NDE) methods to characterize aging and durability in aircraft materials to improve the safety of the nation's airline fleet. 3D THz tomography can play a major role in detection and characterization of flaws and degradation in aircraft materials, including Kevlar-based composites and Kevlar and Zylon fabric covers for soft-shell fan containment where aging and durability issues are critical. A prototype computed tomography (CT) time-domain (TD) THz imaging system has been used to generate 3D images of several test objects including a TUFI tile (a thermal protection system tile used on the Space Shuttle and possibly the Orion or similar capsules). This TUFI tile had simulated impact damage that was located and the depth of damage determined. The CT motion control gan try was designed and constructed, and then integrated with a T-Ray 4000 control unit and motion controller to create a complete CT TD-THz imaging system prototype. A data collection software script was developed that takes multiple z-axis slices in sequence and saves the data for batch processing. The data collection software was integrated with the ability to batch process the slice data with the CT TD-THz image reconstruction software. The time required to take a single CT slice was decreased from six minutes to approximately one minute by replacing the 320 ps, 100-Hz waveform acquisition system with an 80 ps, 1,000-Hz waveform acquisition system. The TD-THZ computed tomography system was built from pre-existing commercial off-the-shelf subsystems. A CT motion control gantry was constructed from COTS components that can handle larger samples. The motion control gantry allows inspection of sample sizes of up to approximately one cubic foot (.0.03 cubic meters). The system reduced to practice a CT-TDTHz system incorporating a COTS 80- ps/l-kHz waveform scanner. The incorporation of this scanner in the system allows acquisition of 3D slice data with better signal-to-noise using a COTS scanner rather than the gchirped h scanner. The system also reduced to practice a prototype for commercial CT systems for insulating materials where safety concerns cannot accommodate x-ray. A software script was written to automate the COTS software to collect and process TD-THz CT data.

Improving early diagnosis of pulmonary infections in patients with febrile neutropenia using low-dose chest computed tomography.

PubMed

Gerritsen, M G; Willemink, M J; Pompe, E; van der Bruggen, T; van Rhenen, A; Lammers, J W J; Wessels, F; Sprengers, R W; de Jong, P A; Minnema, M C

2017-01-01

We performed a prospective study in patients with chemotherapy induced febrile neutropenia to investigate the diagnostic value of low-dose computed tomography compared to standard chest radiography. The aim was to compare both modalities for detection of pulmonary infections and to explore performance of low-dose computed tomography for early detection of invasive fungal disease. The low-dose computed tomography remained blinded during the study. A consensus diagnosis of the fever episode made by an expert panel was used as reference standard. We included 67 consecutive patients on the first day of febrile neutropenia. According to the consensus diagnosis 11 patients (16.4%) had pulmonary infections. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 36%, 93%, 50% and 88% for radiography, and 73%, 91%, 62% and 94% for low-dose computed tomography, respectively. An uncorrected McNemar showed no statistical difference (p = 0.197). Mean radiation dose for low-dose computed tomography was 0.24 mSv. Four out of 5 included patients diagnosed with invasive fungal disease had radiographic abnormalities suspect for invasive fungal disease on the low-dose computed tomography scan made on day 1 of fever, compared to none of the chest radiographs. We conclude that chest radiography has little value in the initial assessment of febrile neutropenia on day 1 for detection of pulmonary abnormalities. Low-dose computed tomography improves detection of pulmonary infiltrates and seems capable of detecting invasive fungal disease at a very early stage with a low radiation dose.

Improving early diagnosis of pulmonary infections in patients with febrile neutropenia using low-dose chest computed tomography

PubMed Central

Pompe, E.; van der Bruggen, T.; van Rhenen, A.; Lammers, J. W. J.; Wessels, F.; Sprengers, R. W.; de Jong, P. A.; Minnema, M. C.

2017-01-01

We performed a prospective study in patients with chemotherapy induced febrile neutropenia to investigate the diagnostic value of low-dose computed tomography compared to standard chest radiography. The aim was to compare both modalities for detection of pulmonary infections and to explore performance of low-dose computed tomography for early detection of invasive fungal disease. The low-dose computed tomography remained blinded during the study. A consensus diagnosis of the fever episode made by an expert panel was used as reference standard. We included 67 consecutive patients on the first day of febrile neutropenia. According to the consensus diagnosis 11 patients (16.4%) had pulmonary infections. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 36%, 93%, 50% and 88% for radiography, and 73%, 91%, 62% and 94% for low-dose computed tomography, respectively. An uncorrected McNemar showed no statistical difference (p = 0.197). Mean radiation dose for low-dose computed tomography was 0.24 mSv. Four out of 5 included patients diagnosed with invasive fungal disease had radiographic abnormalities suspect for invasive fungal disease on the low-dose computed tomography scan made on day 1 of fever, compared to none of the chest radiographs. We conclude that chest radiography has little value in the initial assessment of febrile neutropenia on day 1 for detection of pulmonary abnormalities. Low-dose computed tomography improves detection of pulmonary infiltrates and seems capable of detecting invasive fungal disease at a very early stage with a low radiation dose. PMID:28235014

X-Ray Computed Tomography Inspection of the Stardust Heat Shield

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McNamara, Karen M.; Schneberk, Daniel J.; Empey, Daniel M.; Koshti, Ajay; Pugel, D. Elizabeth; Cozmuta, Ioana; Stackpoole, Mairead; Ruffino, Norman P.; Pompa, Eddie C.; Oliveras, Ovidio;

Nasal computed tomography.

PubMed

Kuehn, Ned F

2006-05-01

Chronic nasal disease is often a challenge to diagnose. Computed tomography greatly enhances the ability to diagnose chronic nasal disease in dogs and cats. Nasal computed tomography provides detailed information regarding the extent of disease, accurate discrimination of neoplastic versus nonneoplastic diseases, and identification of areas of the nose to examine rhinoscopically and suspicious regions to target for biopsy.

Multislice Computed Tomography Accurately Detects Stenosis in Coronary Artery Bypass Conduits

PubMed Central

Duran, Cihan; Sagbas, Ertan; Caynak, Baris; Sanisoglu, Ilhan; Akpinar, Belhhan; Gulbaran, Murat

2007-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of multislice computed tomography in detecting graft stenosis or occlusion after coronary artery bypass grafting, using coronary angiography as the standard. From January 2005 through May 2006, 25 patients (19 men and 6 women; mean age, 54 ± 11.3 years) underwent diagnostic investigation of their bypass grafts by multislice computed tomography within 1 month of coronary angiography. The mean time elapsed after coronary artery bypass grafting was 6.2 years. In these 25 patients, we examined 65 bypass conduits (24 arterial and 41 venous) and 171 graft segments (the shaft, proximal anastomosis, and distal anastomosis). Compared with coronary angiography, the segment-based sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of multislice computed tomography in the evaluation of stenosis were 89%, 100%, 100%, and 99%, respectively. The patency rate for multislice compu-ted tomography was 85% (55/65: 3 arterial and 7 venous grafts were occluded), with 100% sensitivity and specificity. From these data, we conclude that multislice computed tomography can accurately evaluate the patency and stenosis of bypass grafts during outpatient follow-up. PMID:17948078

Volume-Based Parameters of {sup 18}F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Improve Disease Recurrence Prediction in Postmastectomy Breast Cancer Patients With 1 to 3 Positive Axillary Lymph Nodes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nakajima, Naomi, E-mail: haruhi0321@gmail.com; Department of Radiology, Ehime University, Ehime; Kataoka, Masaaki

Purpose: To determine whether volume-based parameters on pretreatment {sup 18}F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in breast cancer patients treated with mastectomy without adjuvant radiation therapy are predictive of recurrence. Methods and Materials: We retrospectively analyzed 93 patients with 1 to 3 positive axillary nodes after surgery, who were studied with {sup 18}F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for initial staging. We evaluated the relationship between positron emission tomography parameters, including the maximum standardized uptake value, metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and clinical outcomes. Results: The median follow-up duration was 45 months. Recurrence was observed in 11 patients.more » Metabolic tumor volume and TLG were significantly related to tumor size, number of involved nodes, nodal ratio, nuclear grade, estrogen receptor (ER) status, and triple negativity (TN) (all P values were <.05). In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, MTV and TLG showed better predictive performance than tumor size, ER status, or TN (area under the curve: 0.85, 0.86, 0.79, 0.74, and 0.74, respectively). On multivariate analysis, MTV was an independent prognostic factor of locoregional recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio 34.42, 95% confidence interval 3.94-882.71, P=.0008) and disease-free survival (DFS) (hazard ratio 13.92, 95% confidence interval 2.65-103.78, P=.0018). The 3-year DFS rate was 93.8% for the lower MTV group (<53.1; n=85) and 25.0% for the higher MTV group (≥53.1; n=8; P<.0001, log–rank test). The 3-year DFS rate for patients with both ER-positive status and MTV <53.1 was 98.2%; and for those with ER-negative status and MTV ≥53.1 it was 25.0% (P<.0001). Conclusions: Volume-based parameters improve recurrence prediction in postmastectomy breast cancer patients with 1 to 3 positive nodes. The addition of MTV to ER status or TN has potential benefits to identify a subgroup at higher risk for recurrence.« less

Differences between postmortem computed tomography and conventional autopsy in a stabbing murder case

PubMed Central

Zerbini, Talita; da Silva, Luiz Fernando Ferraz; Ferro, Antonio Carlos Gonçalves; Kay, Fernando Uliana; Junior, Edson Amaro; Pasqualucci, Carlos Augusto Gonçalves; do Nascimento Saldiva, Paulo Hilario

2014-01-01

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present work is to analyze the differences and similarities between the elements of a conventional autopsy and images obtained from postmortem computed tomography in a case of a homicide stab wound. METHOD: Comparison between the findings of different methods: autopsy and postmortem computed tomography. RESULTS: In some aspects, autopsy is still superior to imaging, especially in relation to external examination and the description of lesion vitality. However, the findings of gas embolism, pneumothorax and pulmonary emphysema and the relationship between the internal path of the instrument of aggression and the entry wound are better demonstrated by postmortem computed tomography. CONCLUSIONS: Although multislice computed tomography has greater accuracy than autopsy, we believe that the conventional autopsy method is fundamental for providing evidence in criminal investigations. PMID:25518020

Interlaced X-ray diffraction computed tomography

PubMed Central

Vamvakeros, Antonios; Jacques, Simon D. M.; Di Michiel, Marco; Senecal, Pierre; Middelkoop, Vesna; Cernik, Robert J.; Beale, Andrew M.

2016-01-01

An X-ray diffraction computed tomography data-collection strategy that allows, post experiment, a choice between temporal and spatial resolution is reported. This strategy enables time-resolved studies on comparatively short timescales, or alternatively allows for improved spatial resolution if the system under study, or components within it, appear to be unchanging. The application of the method for studying an Mn–Na–W/SiO2 fixed-bed reactor in situ is demonstrated. Additionally, the opportunities to improve the data-collection strategy further, enabling post-collection tuning between statistical, temporal and spatial resolutions, are discussed. In principle, the interlaced scanning approach can also be applied to other pencil-beam tomographic techniques, like X-ray fluorescence computed tomography, X-ray absorption fine structure computed tomography, pair distribution function computed tomography and tomographic scanning transmission X-ray microscopy. PMID:27047305

Colovesical fistula causing an uncommon reason for failure of computed tomography colonography: a case report.

PubMed

Neroladaki, Angeliki; Breguet, Romain; Botsikas, Diomidis; Terraz, Sylvain; Becker, Christoph D; Montet, Xavier

2012-07-23

Computed tomography colonography, or virtual colonoscopy, is a good alternative to optical colonoscopy. However, suboptimal patient preparation or colon distension may reduce the diagnostic accuracy of this imaging technique. We report the case of an 83-year-old Caucasian woman who presented with a five-month history of pneumaturia and fecaluria and an acute episode of macrohematuria, leading to a high clinical suspicion of a colovesical fistula. The fistula was confirmed by standard contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Optical colonoscopy was performed to exclude the presence of an underlying colonic neoplasm. Since optical colonoscopy was incomplete, computed tomography colonography was performed, but also failed due to inadequate colon distension. The insufflated air directly accumulated within the bladder via the large fistula. Clinicians should consider colovesical fistula as a potential reason for computed tomography colonography failure.

Pulmonary giant cell carcinoma associated with pseudomyxoma peritonei.

PubMed

Goldin, Mark; Li, Jinghong; Amirrezvani, Ali; Riker, David

2012-01-01

Pulmonary giant cell carcinoma is a rare subtype of sarcomatoid carcinoma. Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare condition in which gelatinous material accumulates within the peritoneal cavity. It is believed PMP arises from a primary appendiceal mucinous neoplasm that perforates the gut, causing mucinous ascites. There are sporadic reports of PMP associated with neoplasms of other organs, rarely the lung. Here, we report on a 60-year-old woman with pulmonary giant cell carcinoma associated with PMP. She presented with progressive dyspnea and abdominal distention. Abdominal computed tomography revealed moderately dense ascites without an obvious mass. Chest computed tomography revealed a large, solitary right lower-lobe lung mass. She underwent transbronchial fine-needle aspiration of the mass, and was diagnosed with pulmonary giant cell carcinoma. The ascites showed scattered malignant cells in a background of mucin, confirming PMP. To our knowledge, this is the first report of pulmonary giant cell carcinoma associated with PMP.

Determination of Diffusion Profiles in Altered Wellbore Cement Using X-ray Computed Tomography Methods

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mason, Harris E.; Walsh, Stuart D. C.; DuFrane, Wyatt L.

2014-06-17

The development of accurate, predictive models for use in determining wellbore integrity requires detailed information about the chemical and mechanical changes occurring in hardened Portland cements. X-ray computed tomography (XRCT) provides a method that can nondestructively probe these changes in three dimensions. Here, we describe a method for extracting subvoxel mineralogical and chemical information from synchrotron XRCT images by combining advanced image segmentation with geochemical models of cement alteration. The method relies on determining “effective linear activity coefficients” (ELAC) for the white light source to generate calibration curves that relate the image grayscales to material composition. The resulting data setmore » supports the modeling of cement alteration by CO 2-rich brine with discrete increases in calcium concentration at reaction boundaries. The results of these XRCT analyses can be used to further improve coupled geochemical and mechanical models of cement alteration in the wellbore environment.« less

High resolution propagation-based imaging system for in vivo dynamic computed tomography of lungs in small animals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Preissner, M.; Murrie, R. P.; Pinar, I.; Werdiger, F.; Carnibella, R. P.; Zosky, G. R.; Fouras, A.; Dubsky, S.

2018-04-01

We have developed an x-ray imaging system for in vivo four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) of small animals for pre-clinical lung investigations. Our customized laboratory facility is capable of high resolution in vivo imaging at high frame rates. Characterization using phantoms demonstrate a spatial resolution of slightly below 50 μm at imaging rates of 30 Hz, and the ability to quantify material density differences of at least 3%. We benchmark our system against existing small animal pre-clinical CT scanners using a quality factor that combines spatial resolution, image noise, dose and scan time. In vivo 4DCT images obtained on our system demonstrate resolution of important features such as blood vessels and small airways, of which the smallest discernible were measured as 55–60 μm in cross section. Quantitative analysis of the images demonstrate regional differences in ventilation between injured and healthy lungs.

Report of a Rare Case: A Maxillary First Molar with Seven Canals Confirmed with Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Kumar, Rahul

2014-01-01

Introduction: Coronal anatomic variations in permanent maxillary molars are unusual; conversely variations involving the number of root canals or number of roots are more common. Methods and Materials: This case report presents a successful nonsurgical endodontic therapy of left maxillary first molar with three roots and seven root canals. This unusual morphology was diagnosed using a dental operating microscope (DOM) and confirmed with the help of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Results: CBCT axial images showed that both of the palatal and distobuccal roots had Vertucci type II canal pattern, whereas the mesiobuccal root canal showed a Sert and Bayirli’s type XV configuration. Conclusion: The use of a DOM and CBCT imaging in endodontically challenging cases can facilitate a better understanding of the complex root canal anatomy, which ultimately enables the clinician to explore the root canal system, and therefore treat it far more efficiently. PMID:24688587

New transurethral system for interstitial radiation of prostate cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baumgartner, G.; Callahan, D.; McKiel, C.F. Jr.

Direct endoscopic implantation of radioactive materials for carcinoma of the prostate without an open operation was accomplished by the use of modified existing transurethral instrumentation and techniques. The closed approach seems applicable particularly to the geriatric population, which is afflicted more commonly but is frequently not treated because of concurrent diseases or because the patient had transurethral resection of the prostate as a diagnostic procedure. Eleven patients were implanted using the transurethral route. Implantations were accomplished successfully with extremely low morbidity. Along with more conventional dosimetry studies, computer tomography was used to assess the placement of seeds. The direct visualizationmore » of the method suggests a potential for greater precision of seed placement as illustrated by computer tomography. In addition, this new instrumentation and method offers a low-risk procedure for carcinoma of the prostate that can be performed on an outpatient basis for selected patients.« less

Efficacy of CM-Wire, M-Wire, and Nickel-Titanium Instruments for Removing Filling Material from Curved Root Canals: A Micro-Computed Tomography Study.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Clarissa Teles; Duarte, Marco Antonio Hungaro; de Almeida, Marcela Milanezi; de Andrade, Flaviana Bombarda; Bernardineli, Norberti

2016-11-01

The aim of this ex vivo study was to evaluate the removal of filling material after using CM-wire, M-wire, and nickel-titanium instruments in both reciprocating and rotary motions in curved canals. Thirty maxillary lateral incisors were divided into 9 groups according to retreatment procedures: Reciproc R25 followed by Mtwo 40/.04 and ProDesign Logic 50/.01 files; ProDesign R 25/.06 followed by ProDesign Logic 40/.05 and ProDesign Logic 50/.01 files; and Gates-Glidden drills, Hedström files, and K-files up to apical size 30 followed by K-file 40 and K-file 50 up to the working length. Micro-computed tomography scans were performed before and after each reinstrumentation procedure to evaluate root canal filling removal. Statistical analysis was performed with Kruskal-Wallis, Friedman, and Wilcoxon tests (P < .05). No significant differences in filling material removal were found in the 3 groups of teeth. The use of Mtwo and ProDesign Logic 40/.05 rotary files did not enhance filling material removal after the use of reciprocating files. The use of ProDesign Logic 50/.01 files significantly reduced the amount of filling material at the apical levels compared with the use of reciprocating files. Association of reciprocating and rotary files was capable of removing a large amount of filling material in the retreatment of curved canals, irrespective of the type of alloy of the instruments. The use of a ProDesign Logic 50/.01 file for apical preparation significantly reduced the amount of remnant material in the apical portion when compared with reciprocating instruments. Copyright © 2016 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Computed tomography and (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography findings in adrenal candidiasis and histoplasmosis: two cases.

PubMed

Altinmakas, Emre; Guo, Ming; Kundu, Uma R; Habra, Mouhammed Amir; Ng, Chaan

2015-01-01

We report the contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) and (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography findings in adrenal histoplasmosis and candidiasis. Both demonstrated bilateral hypermetabolic heterogeneous adrenal masses with limited wash-out on delayed CT. Adrenal candidiasis has not been previously reported, nor have the CT wash-out findings in either infection. The adrenal imaging findings are indistinguishable from malignancy, which is more common; but in this setting, physicians should be alert to the differential diagnosis of fungal infections, since it can be equally deadly. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Incidental renal tumours on low-dose CT lung cancer screening exams.

PubMed

Pinsky, Paul F; Dunn, Barbara; Gierada, David; Nath, P Hrudaya; Munden, Reginald; Berland, Lincoln; Kramer, Barnett S

2017-06-01

Introduction Renal cancer incidence has increased markedly in the United States in recent decades, largely due to incidentally detected tumours from computed tomography imaging. Here, we analyze the potential for low-dose computed tomography lung cancer screening to detect renal cancer. Methods The National Lung Screening Trial randomized subjects to three annual screens with either low-dose computed tomography or chest X-ray. Eligibility criteria included 30 + pack-years, current smoking or quit within 15 years, and age 55-74. Subjects were followed for seven years. Low-dose computed tomography screening forms collected information on lung cancer and non-lung cancer abnormalities, including abnormalities below the diaphragm. A reader study was performed on a sample of National Lung Screening Trial low-dose computed tomography images assessing presence of abnormalities below the diaphragms and abnormalities suspicious for renal cancer. Results There were 26,722 and 26,732 subjects enrolled in the low-dose computed tomography and chest X-ray arms, respectively, and there were 104 and 85 renal cancer cases diagnosed, respectively (relative risk = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.9-1.5). From 75,126 low-dose computed tomography screens, there were 46 renal cancer diagnoses within one year. Abnormalities below the diaphragm rates were 39.1% in screens with renal cancer versus 4.1% in screens without (P < 0.001). Cases with abnormalities below the diaphragms had shorter median time to diagnosis than those without (71 vs. 160 days, P = 0.004). In the reader study, 64% of renal cancer cases versus 13% of non-cases had abnormalities below the diaphragms; 55% of cases and 0.8% of non-cases had a finding suspicious for renal cancer (P < 0.001). Conclusion Low-dose computed tomography screens can potentially detect renal cancers. The benefits to harms tradeoff of incidental detection of renal tumours on low-dose computed tomography is unknown.

Meta-Analysis of Stress Myocardial Perfusion Imaging

ClinicalTrials.gov

2017-06-06

Coronary Disease; Echocardiography; Fractional Flow Reserve, Myocardial; Hemodynamics; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Myocardial Perfusion Imaging; Perfusion; Predictive Value of Tests; Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography; Positron Emission Tomography; Multidetector Computed Tomography; Echocardiography, Stress; Coronary Angiography

Positron Computed Tomography: Current State, Clinical Results and Future Trends

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Schelbert, H. R.; Phelps, M. E.; Kuhl, D. E.

1980-09-01

An overview is presented of positron computed tomography: its advantages over single photon emission tomography, its use in metabolic studies of the heart and chemical investigation of the brain, and future trends. (ACR)

Diagnostic dilemma of degenerative joint disease, chronic avascular necrosis or metastasis in planar Tc-99m-methylene diphosphonate planar skeletal scintigraphy excluded by single positron emission computed tomography/computed tomography.

PubMed

Jain, Tarun Kumar; Phulsunga, Rohit Kumar; Basher, Rajender Kumar; Kumar, Narendra; Bhattacharya, Anish; Mittal, Bhagwant Rai

2015-01-01

We present a 71-year-old male patient subjected to skeletal scintigraphy for metastasis work up of prostate cancer. Whole body planar images revealed a solitary focal tracer uptake in left femoral head mimicking as solitary metastatic focus. Single positron emission computed tomography/computed tomography images localized this increased tracer uptake to the subchondral cysts with minimal sclerosis in left femur head with no decrease in size of femur head and was reported as (degenerative joint disease).

Diagnostic dilemma of degenerative joint disease, chronic avascular necrosis or metastasis in planar Tc-99m-methylene diphosphonate planar skeletal scintigraphy excluded by single positron emission computed tomography/computed tomography

PubMed Central

Jain, Tarun Kumar; Phulsunga, Rohit Kumar; Basher, Rajender Kumar; Kumar, Narendra; Bhattacharya, Anish; Mittal, Bhagwant Rai

2015-01-01

We present a 71-year-old male patient subjected to skeletal scintigraphy for metastasis work up of prostate cancer. Whole body planar images revealed a solitary focal tracer uptake in left femoral head mimicking as solitary metastatic focus. Single positron emission computed tomography/computed tomography images localized this increased tracer uptake to the subchondral cysts with minimal sclerosis in left femur head with no decrease in size of femur head and was reported as (degenerative joint disease). PMID:26170582

The early development of medial coronoid disease in growing Labrador retrievers: radiographic, computed tomographic, necropsy and micro-computed tomographic findings.

PubMed

Lau, S F; Wolschrijn, C F; Hazewinkel, H A W; Siebelt, M; Voorhout, G

2013-09-01

Medial coronoid disease (MCD) encompasses lesions of the entire medial coronoid process (MCP), both of the articular cartilage and the subchondral bone. To detect the earliest signs of MCD, radiography and computed tomography were used to monitor the development of MCD in 14 Labrador retrievers, from 6 to 7 weeks of age until euthanasia. The definitive diagnosis of MCD was based on necropsy and micro-computed tomography findings. The frequency of MCD in the dogs studied was 50%. Radiographic findings did not provide evidence of MCD, ulnar subtrochlear sclerosis or blunting of the cranial edge of the MCP. Computed tomography was more sensitive (30.8%) than radiography (0%) in detecting early MCD, with the earliest signs detectable at 14 weeks of age. A combination of the necropsy and micro-computed tomography findings of the MCP showed that MCD was manifested as a lesion of only the subchondral bone in dogs <18 weeks of age. In all dogs (affected and unaffected), there was close contact between the base of the MCP and the proximal radial head in the congruent joints. Computed tomography and micro-computed tomography findings indicated that the lesions of MCD probably originated at the base of the MCP. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Potential techniques for non-destructive evaluation of cable materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gillen, Kenneth T.; Clough, Roger L.; Mattson, Bengt; Stenberg, Bengt; Oestman, Erik

This paper describes the connection between mechanical degradation of common cable materials, in radiation and elevated temperature environments, and density increases caused by the oxidation which leads to this degradation. Two techniques based on density changes are suggested as potential non-destructive evaluation (NDE) procedures which may be applicable to monitoring the mechanical condition of cable materials in power plant environments. The first technique is direct measurement of density changes, via a density gradient column, using small shavings removed from the surface of cable jackets at selected locations. The second technique is computed X-ray tomography, utilizing a portable scanning device.

Tomography in Geology: 3D Modeling and Analysis of Structural Features of Rocks Using Computed MicroTomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ponomarev, A. A.; Mamadaliev, R. A.; Semenova, T. V.

2016-10-01

The article presents a brief overview of the current state of computed tomography in the sphere of oil and gas production in Russia and in the world. Operation of computed microtomograph Skyscan 1172 is also provided, as well as personal examples of its application in solving geological problems.

Aerosolized intranasal midazolam for safe and effective sedation for quality computed tomography imaging in infants and children.

PubMed

Mekitarian Filho, Eduardo; de Carvalho, Werther Brunow; Gilio, Alfredo Elias; Robinson, Fay; Mason, Keira P

2013-10-01

This pilot study introduces the aerosolized route for midazolam as an option for infant and pediatric sedation for computed tomography imaging. This technique produced predictable and effective sedation for quality computed tomography imaging studies with minimal artifact and no significant adverse events. Copyright © 2013 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Computed Tomography Measuring Inside Machines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wozniak, James F.; Scudder, Henry J.; Anders, Jeffrey E.

1995-01-01

Computed tomography applied to obtain approximate measurements of radial distances from centerline of turbopump to leading edges of diffuser vanes in turbopump. Use of computed tomography has significance beyond turbopump application: example of general concept of measuring internal dimensions of assembly of parts without having to perform time-consuming task of taking assembly apart and measuring internal parts on coordinate-measuring machine.

A Heat Pipe Coupled Planar Thermionic Converter: Performance Characterization, Nondestructive Testing, and Evaluation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-03-15

Pipes, Computer Modelling, Nondestructive Testing. Tomography , Planar Converter, Cesium Reservoir 19. ABSTRACT (Continue on reverse if necessary and...Investigation ........................ 32 4.3 Computed Tomography ................................ 33 4.4 X-Ray Radiography...25 3.4 LEOS generated output data for Mo-Re converter ................ 26 4.1 Distance along converter imaged by the computed tomography

Biomedical implications of dental-ceramic defects investigated by numerical simulation, radiographic, microcomputer tomography, and time-domain optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinescu, Cosmin; Negrutiu, Meda Lavinia; Ionita, Ciprian; Marsavina, Liviu; Negru, Radu; Topala, Florin; Petrescu, Emanuela; Rominu, Roxana; Fabriky, Mihai; Bradu, Adrian; Rominu, Mihai; Podoleanu, Adrian Gh.

2011-10-01

Imagistic investigation of the metal-ceramic crowns and fixed partial prostheses represent a very important issue in nowadays dentistry. At this time, in dental office, it is difficult or even impossible to evaluate a metal ceramic crown or bridge before setting it in the oral cavity. The possibilities of ceramic fractures are due to small fracture lines or material defects inside the esthetic layers. Material and methods: In this study 25 metal ceramic crowns and fixed partial prostheses were investigated by radiographic method (Rx), micro computer tomography (MicroCT) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) working in Time Domain, at 1300 nm. The OCT system contains two interferometers and one scanner. For each incident analysis a stuck made of 100 slices was obtain. These slices were used in order to obtain a 3D model of the ceramic interface. After detecting the presence and the positions of the ceramic defects the numerical simulation method was used to estimate the biomechanical effect of the masticatory forces on fractures propagations in ceramic materials. Results: For all the dental ceramic defects numerical simulation analysis was performed. The simulation of crack propagation shows that the crack could initiate from the upper, lower or both parts of the defect and propagates through the ceramic material where tensile stress field is present. RX and MicroCT are very powerful instruments that provide a good characterization of the dental construct. It is important to observe the reflections due to the metal infrastructure that could affect the evaluation of the metal ceramic crowns and bridges. The OCT investigations could complete the imagistic evaluation of the dental construct by offering important information when it is need it.

Characterization and Simulation of a New Design Parallel-Plate Ionization Chamber for CT Dosimetry at Calibration Laboratories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perini, Ana P.; Neves, Lucio P.; Maia, Ana F.; Caldas, Linda V. E.

2013-12-01

In this work, a new extended-length parallel-plate ionization chamber was tested in the standard radiation qualities for computed tomography established according to the half-value layers defined at the IEC 61267 standard, at the Calibration Laboratory of the Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN). The experimental characterization was made following the IEC 61674 standard recommendations. The experimental results obtained with the ionization chamber studied in this work were compared to those obtained with a commercial pencil ionization chamber, showing a good agreement. With the use of the PENELOPE Monte Carlo code, simulations were undertaken to evaluate the influence of the cables, insulator, PMMA body, collecting electrode, guard ring, screws, as well as different materials and geometrical arrangements, on the energy deposited on the ionization chamber sensitive volume. The maximum influence observed was 13.3% for the collecting electrode, and regarding the use of different materials and design, the substitutions showed that the original project presented the most suitable configuration. The experimental and simulated results obtained in this work show that this ionization chamber has appropriate characteristics to be used at calibration laboratories, for dosimetry in standard computed tomography and diagnostic radiology quality beams.

Epidermoid cyst in Meckel's cave with unusual computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Case report.

PubMed

Arai, Atsushi; Sasayama, Takashi; Koyama, Junji; Fujita, Atsushi; Hosoda, Kohkichi; Kohmura, Eiji

2010-01-01

A 27-year-old woman presented with headache and occasional numbness over her right face. Computed tomography revealed a hypodense mass in the middle cranial fossa and another adjacent hyperdense mass in the posterior fossa with erosion of the right petrous apex. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed the lesion in the middle cranial fossa as iso- to hypointense on T(1)-weighted and hyperintense on T(2)-weighted imaging, with peripheral enhancement after gadolinium administration, and the adjacent lesion in the posterior fossa as hyperintense on T(1)-weighted and hypointense on T(2)-weighted imaging. During surgery, these lesions mimicking two adjacent distinct tumors were revealed to connect through Meckel's cave. The hypodense lesion in the middle cranial fossa consisted of pearly-like solid contents, and the hyperdense lesion in the posterior cranial fossa consisted of viscid dark-green materials. The tumors were gross totally resected with endoscopic assistance. Histological examination confirmed that the tumor was an epidermoid cyst. The present case cyst indicates that although the diffusion-weighted imaging sequence is useful for detection of intracranial epidermoid cysts, epidermoid cysts including viscous materials with unusual radiological findings could complicate the preoperative diagnosis.

Micro X-Ray Computed Tomography Mass Loss Assessment of Different UHMWPE: A Hip Joint Simulator Study on Standard vs. Cross-Linked Polyethylene

PubMed Central

Zanini, Filippo; Carmignato, Simone

2017-01-01

More than 60.000 hip arthroplasty are performed every year in Italy. Although Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight-Polyethylene remains the most used material as acetabular cup, wear of this material induces over time in vivo a foreign-body response and consequently osteolysis, pain, and the need of implant revision. Furthermore, oxidative wear of the polyethylene provoke several and severe failures. To solve these problems, highly cross-linked polyethylene and Vitamin-E-stabilized polyethylene were introduced in the last years. In in vitro experiments, various efforts have been made to compare the wear behavior of standard PE and vitamin-E infused liners. In this study we compared the in vitro wear behavior of two different configurations of cross-linked polyethylene (with and without the add of Vitamin E) vs. the standard polyethylene acetabular cups. The aim of the present study was to validate a micro X-ray computed tomography technique to assess the wear of different commercially available, polyethylene’s acetabular cups after wear simulation; in particular, the gravimetric method was used to provide reference wear values. The agreement between the two methods is documented in this paper. PMID:28107468

X-ray and gamma-ray computed tomography for industrial nondestructive testing and evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costello, Ian; Wells, Peter; Davis, John R.; Benci, Nino; Skerrett, David; Davies, D. R.

1994-03-01

This paper presents an overview of two recently constructed computed tomography (CT) scanners that have been designed to provide structural information for industrially relevant materials and components. CT enables cross-sectional slices of an object to be nondestructively imaged and represented as a map of linear attenuation coefficient. As linear attenuation is the product of mass attenuation and density, this usually enables a straightforward interpretation of the image in terms of density. The two instruments are a transportable scanner using a 160 kV(peak) powered x-ray tube for the inspection of wooden power poles up to 450 mm in diameter, and an industrial scanning system designed around an Ir-192 gamma-ray source for materials characterization and the testing and evaluation of castings, ceramics, and composites. The images presented in this paper have generally been reconstructed using the summation convolution back-projection (SCBP) method, and this technique is outlined. Direct Fourier reconstruction is also used and compared with the SCBP method. A brief discussion is offered on incorporating edge detection methods into the image reconstruction process for the improved identification of defects such as cracks and voids.

The use of postmortem computed tomography in the diagnosis of intentional medication overdose.

PubMed

Burke, Michael P; O'Donnell, Chris; Bassed, Richard

2012-09-01

The recognition of a well defined basal layer of radio dense material on the postmortem computed tomography (CT) images, in the setting of typical scene findings of an intentional medication overdose and unremarkable external examination of the deceased's body can, in certain circumstances, permit such cases to be managed without routine full autopsy examination. Preliminary toxicological analysis can be targeted to such cases to provide further supportive evidence of intentional medication overdose. In cases where the scene findings are ambiguous or have been contaminated the postmortem CT images may alert the pathologist of the possibility of overdose in an otherwise apparently natural death. We reviewed 61 cases of documented intentional therapeutic medication overdose and 61 control cases. In the majority of the cases of confirmed intentional therapeutic medication overdose the CT images showed no diagnostic features. However, in many cases a well defined basal layer of radio-opaque material was clearly seen to line the gastric mucosa. The postmortem CT pattern which we believe to be highly suggestive of intentional medication overdose must be differentiated from other causes of increased radio density in the stomach which include CT artefacts.

Preoperative (3-dimensional) computed tomography lung reconstruction before anatomic segmentectomy or lobectomy for stage I non-small cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Chan, Ernest G; Landreneau, James R; Schuchert, Matthew J; Odell, David D; Gu, Suicheng; Pu, Jiantao; Luketich, James D; Landreneau, Rodney J

2015-09-01

Accurate cancer localization and negative resection margins are necessary for successful segmentectomy. In this study, we evaluate a newly developed software package that permits automated segmentation of the pulmonary parenchyma, allowing 3-dimensional assessment of tumor size, location, and estimates of surgical margins. A pilot study using a newly developed 3-dimensional computed tomography analytic software package was performed to retrospectively evaluate preoperative computed tomography images of patients who underwent segmentectomy (n = 36) or lobectomy (n = 15) for stage 1 non-small cell lung cancer. The software accomplishes an automated reconstruction of anatomic pulmonary segments of the lung based on bronchial arborization. Estimates of anticipated surgical margins and pulmonary segmental volume were made on the basis of 3-dimensional reconstruction. Autosegmentation was achieved in 72.7% (32/44) of preoperative computed tomography images with slice thicknesses of 3 mm or less. Reasons for segmentation failure included local severe emphysema or pneumonitis, and lower computed tomography resolution. Tumor segmental localization was achieved in all autosegmented studies. The 3-dimensional computed tomography analysis provided a positive predictive value of 87% in predicting a marginal clearance greater than 1 cm and a 75% positive predictive value in predicting a margin to tumor diameter ratio greater than 1 in relation to the surgical pathology assessment. This preoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography analysis of segmental anatomy can confirm the tumor location within an anatomic segment and aid in predicting surgical margins. This 3-dimensional computed tomography information may assist in the preoperative assessment regarding the suitability of segmentectomy for peripheral lung cancers. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Role of post-mapping computed tomography in virtual-assisted lung mapping.

PubMed

Sato, Masaaki; Nagayama, Kazuhiro; Kuwano, Hideki; Nitadori, Jun-Ichi; Anraku, Masaki; Nakajima, Jun

2017-02-01

Background Virtual-assisted lung mapping is a novel bronchoscopic preoperative lung marking technique in which virtual bronchoscopy is used to predict the locations of multiple dye markings. Post-mapping computed tomography is performed to confirm the locations of the actual markings. This study aimed to examine the accuracy of marking locations predicted by virtual bronchoscopy and elucidate the role of post-mapping computed tomography. Methods Automated and manual virtual bronchoscopy was used to predict marking locations. After bronchoscopic dye marking under local anesthesia, computed tomography was performed to confirm the actual marking locations before surgery. Discrepancies between marking locations predicted by the different methods and the actual markings were examined on computed tomography images. Forty-three markings in 11 patients were analyzed. Results The average difference between the predicted and actual marking locations was 30 mm. There was no significant difference between the latest version of the automated virtual bronchoscopy system (30.7 ± 17.2 mm) and manual virtual bronchoscopy (29.8 ± 19.1 mm). The difference was significantly greater in the upper vs. lower lobes (37.1 ± 20.1 vs. 23.0 ± 6.8 mm, for automated virtual bronchoscopy; p < 0.01). Despite this discrepancy, all targeted lesions were successfully resected using 3-dimensional image guidance based on post-mapping computed tomography reflecting the actual marking locations. Conclusions Markings predicted by virtual bronchoscopy were dislocated from the actual markings by an average of 3 cm. However, surgery was accurately performed using post-mapping computed tomography guidance, demonstrating the indispensable role of post-mapping computed tomography in virtual-assisted lung mapping.

Utility of screening computed tomography of chest, abdomen and pelvis in patients after heart transplantation.

PubMed

Dasari, Tarun W; Pavlovic-Surjancev, Biljana; Dusek, Linda; Patel, Nilamkumar; Heroux, Alain L

2011-12-01

Malignancy is a late cause of mortality in heart transplant recipients. It is unknown if screening computed tomography scan would lead to early detection of such malignancies or serious vascular anomalies post heart transplantation. This is a single center observational study of patients undergoing surveillance computed tomography of chest, abdomen and pelvis at least 5 years after transplantation. Abnormal findings, included pulmonary nodules, lymphadenopathy and intra-thoracic and intra-abdominal masses and vascular anomalies such as abdominal aortic aneurysm. The clinical follow up of each of these major abnormal findings is summarized. A total of 63 patients underwent computed tomography scan of chest, abdomen and pelvis at least 5 years after transplantation. Of these, 54 (86%) were male and 9 (14%) were female. Mean age was 52±9.2 years. Computed tomography revealed 1 lung cancer (squamous cell) only. Non specific pulmonary nodules were seen in 6 patients (9.5%). The most common incidental finding was abdominal aortic aneurysms (N=6 (9.5%)), which necessitated follow up computed tomography (N=5) or surgery (N=1). Mean time to detection of abdominal aortic aneurysms from transplantation was 14.6±4.2 years. Mean age at the time of detection of abdominal aortic aneurysms was 74.5±3.2 years. Screening computed tomography scan in patients 5 years from transplantation revealed only one malignancy but lead to increased detection of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Thus the utility is low in terms of detection of malignancy. Based on this study we do not recommend routine computed tomography post heart transplantation. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Petamenophis (Padiamenemipet), an Egyptian Child Mummy Protected for Eternity: Revelation by Multidetector Computed Tomography.

PubMed

Martina, Maria Cristina; Cesarani, Federico; Boano, Rosa; Fiore Marochetti, Elisa; Gandini, Giovanni

The objective of our work was to report the most recent findings obtained with multidetector computed tomography of a child mummy from the Roman period (119-123 CE) housed at the Egyptian Museum in Turin, Italy. Multidetector computed tomography and postprocessing were applied to understand the embalming techniques, the nature of a foreign object, and anthropometrical values. The information was compared with that from other mummies that were buried in the same tomb, but today housed in different museums. New information regarding the embalming technique was revealed. Multidetector computed tomography allowed the identification of a knife-like metallic object, probably an amulet for the child's protection in the afterlife. Multidetector computed tomography and image postprocessing confirm their valuable role in noninvasive studies in ancient mummies and provided evidence of a unique cultural practice in the late history of Ancient Egypt such as placing a knife possibly as an amulet.

Evaluation of digital dental models obtained from dental cone-beam computed tomography scan of alginate impressions

PubMed Central

Jiang, Tingting; Lee, Sang-Mi; Hou, Yanan; Chang, Xin

2016-01-01

Objective To investigate the dimensional accuracy of digital dental models obtained from the dental cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan of alginate impressions according to the time elapse when the impressions are stored under ambient conditions. Methods Alginate impressions were obtained from 20 adults using 3 different alginate materials, 2 traditional alginate materials (Alginoplast and Cavex Impressional) and 1 extended-pour alginate material (Cavex ColorChange). The impressions were stored under ambient conditions, and scanned by CBCT immediately after the impressions were taken, and then at 1 hour intervals for 6 hours. After reconstructing three-dimensional digital dental models, the models were measured and the data were analyzed to determine dimensional changes according to the elapsed time. The changes within the measurement error were regarded as clinically acceptable in this study. Results All measurements showed a decreasing tendency with an increase in the elapsed time after the impressions. Although the extended-pour alginate exhibited a less decreasing tendency than the other 2 materials, there were no statistically significant differences between the materials. Changes above the measurement error occurred between the time points of 3 and 4 hours after the impressions. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that digital dental models can be obtained simply from a CBCT scan of alginate impressions without sending them to a remote laboratory. However, when the impressions are not stored under special conditions, they should be scanned immediately, or at least within 2 to 3 hours after the impressions are taken. PMID:27226958

Prediction of Fracture Behavior in Rock and Rock-like Materials Using Discrete Element Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katsaga, T.; Young, P.

2009-05-01

The study of fracture initiation and propagation in heterogeneous materials such as rock and rock-like materials are of principal interest in the field of rock mechanics and rock engineering. It is crucial to study and investigate failure prediction and safety measures in civil and mining structures. Our work offers a practical approach to predict fracture behaviour using discrete element models. In this approach, the microstructures of materials are presented through the combination of clusters of bonded particles with different inter-cluster particle and bond properties, and intra-cluster bond properties. The geometry of clusters is transferred from information available from thin sections, computed tomography (CT) images and other visual presentation of the modeled material using customized AutoCAD built-in dialog- based Visual Basic Application. Exact microstructures of the tested sample, including fractures, faults, inclusions and void spaces can be duplicated in the discrete element models. Although the microstructural fabrics of rocks and rock-like structures may have different scale, fracture formation and propagation through these materials are alike and will follow similar mechanics. Synthetic material provides an excellent condition for validating the modelling approaches, as fracture behaviours are known with the well-defined composite's properties. Calibration of the macro-properties of matrix material and inclusions (aggregates), were followed with the overall mechanical material responses calibration by adjusting the interfacial properties. The discrete element model predicted similar fracture propagation features and path as that of the real sample material. The path of the fractures and matrix-inclusion interaction was compared using computed tomography images. Initiation and fracture formation in the model and real material were compared using Acoustic Emission data. Analysing the temporal and spatial evolution of AE events, collected during the sample testing, in relation to the CT images allows the precise reconstruction of the failure sequence. Our proposed modelling approach illustrates realistic fracture formation and growth predictions at different loading conditions.

A New Material Mapping Procedure for Quantitative Computed Tomography-Based, Continuum Finite Element Analyses of the Vertebra

PubMed Central

Unnikrishnan, Ginu U.; Morgan, Elise F.

2011-01-01

Inaccuracies in the estimation of material properties and errors in the assignment of these properties into finite element models limit the reliability, accuracy, and precision of quantitative computed tomography (QCT)-based finite element analyses of the vertebra. In this work, a new mesh-independent, material mapping procedure was developed to improve the quality of predictions of vertebral mechanical behavior from QCT-based finite element models. In this procedure, an intermediate step, called the material block model, was introduced to determine the distribution of material properties based on bone mineral density, and these properties were then mapped onto the finite element mesh. A sensitivity study was first conducted on a calibration phantom to understand the influence of the size of the material blocks on the computed bone mineral density. It was observed that varying the material block size produced only marginal changes in the predictions of mineral density. Finite element (FE) analyses were then conducted on a square column-shaped region of the vertebra and also on the entire vertebra in order to study the effect of material block size on the FE-derived outcomes. The predicted values of stiffness for the column and the vertebra decreased with decreasing block size. When these results were compared to those of a mesh convergence analysis, it was found that the influence of element size on vertebral stiffness was less than that of the material block size. This mapping procedure allows the material properties in a finite element study to be determined based on the block size required for an accurate representation of the material field, while the size of the finite elements can be selected independently and based on the required numerical accuracy of the finite element solution. The mesh-independent, material mapping procedure developed in this study could be particularly helpful in improving the accuracy of finite element analyses of vertebroplasty and spine metastases, as these analyses typically require mesh refinement at the interfaces between distinct materials. Moreover, the mapping procedure is not specific to the vertebra and could thus be applied to many other anatomic sites. PMID:21823740

Diagnosis of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome by positron emission tomography/computed tomography: report of two cases treated by defibrotide.

PubMed

Gauthé, Mathieu; Bozec, Laurence; Bedossa, Pierre

2014-11-01

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) is a potentially fatal liver injury that mainly occurs after myeloablative chemotherapy. We report two cases of SOS investigated by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography and treated with defibrotide. © 2014 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

Measuring Weld Profiles By Computer Tomography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pascua, Antonio G.; Roy, Jagatjit

1990-01-01

Noncontacting, nondestructive computer tomography system determines internal and external contours of welded objects. System makes it unnecessary to take metallurgical sections (destructive technique) or to take silicone impressions of hidden surfaces (technique that contaminates) to inspect them. Measurements of contours via tomography performed 10 times as fast as measurements via impression molds, and tomography does not contaminate inspected parts.

Engine materials characterization and damage monitoring by using x ray technologies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baaklini, George Y.

1993-01-01

X ray attenuation measurement systems that are capable of characterizing density variations in monolithic ceramics and damage due to processing and/or mechanical testing in ceramic and intermetallic matrix composites are developed and applied. Noninvasive monitoring of damage accumulation and failure sequences in ceramic matrix composites is used during room-temperature tensile testing. This work resulted in the development of a point-scan digital radiography system and an in situ x ray material testing system. The former is used to characterize silicon carbide and silicon nitride specimens, and the latter is used to image the failure behavior of silicon-carbide-fiber-reinforced, reaction-bonded silicon nitride matrix composites. State-of-the-art x ray computed tomography is investigated to determine its capabilities and limitations in characterizing density variations of subscale engine components (e.g., a silicon carbide rotor, a silicon nitride blade, and a silicon-carbide-fiber-reinforced beta titanium matrix rod, rotor, and ring). Microfocus radiography, conventional radiography, scanning acoustic microscopy, and metallography are used to substantiate the x ray computed tomography findings. Point-scan digital radiography is a viable technique for characterizing density variations in monolithic ceramic specimens. But it is very limited and time consuming in characterizing ceramic matrix composites. Precise x ray attenuation measurements, reflecting minute density variations, are achieved by photon counting and by using microcollimators at the source and the detector. X ray computed tomography is found to be a unique x ray attenuation measurement technique capable of providing cross-sectional spatial density information in monolithic ceramics and metal matrix composites. X ray computed tomography is proven to accelerate generic composite component development. Radiographic evaluation before, during, and after loading shows the effect of preexisting volume flaws on the fracture behavior of composites. Results from one-, three-, five-, and eight-ply ceramic composite specimens show that x ray film radiography can monitor damage accumulation during tensile loading. Matrix cracking, fiber-matrix debonding, fiber bridging, and fiber pullout are imaged throughout the tensile loading of the specimens. In situ film radiography is found to be a practical technique for estimating interfacial shear strength between the silicon carbide fibers and the reaction-bonded silicon nitride matrix. It is concluded that pretest, in situ, and post-test x ray imaging can provide greater understanding of ceramic matrix composite mechanical behavior.

Enabling three-dimensional densitometric measurements using laboratory source X-ray micro-computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pankhurst, M. J.; Fowler, R.; Courtois, L.; Nonni, S.; Zuddas, F.; Atwood, R. C.; Davis, G. R.; Lee, P. D.

2018-01-01

We present new software allowing significantly improved quantitative mapping of the three-dimensional density distribution of objects using laboratory source polychromatic X-rays via a beam characterisation approach (c.f. filtering or comparison to phantoms). One key advantage is that a precise representation of the specimen material is not required. The method exploits well-established, widely available, non-destructive and increasingly accessible laboratory-source X-ray tomography. Beam characterisation is performed in two stages: (1) projection data are collected through a range of known materials utilising a novel hardware design integrated into the rotation stage; and (2) a Python code optimises a spectral response model of the system. We provide hardware designs for use with a rotation stage able to be tilted, yet the concept is easily adaptable to virtually any laboratory system and sample, and implicitly corrects the image artefact known as beam hardening.

Parallel Computing for the Computed-Tomography Imaging Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Seungwon

2008-01-01

This software computes the tomographic reconstruction of spatial-spectral data from raw detector images of the Computed-Tomography Imaging Spectrometer (CTIS), which enables transient-level, multi-spectral imaging by capturing spatial and spectral information in a single snapshot.

X-Ray Nanofocus CT: Visualising Of Internal 3D-Structures With Submicrometer Resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weinekoetter, Christian

2008-09-01

High-resolution X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) allows the visualization and failure analysis of the internal micro structure of objects—even if they have complicated 3D-structures where 2D X-ray microscopy would give unclear information. During the past several years, computed tomography has progressed to higher resolution and quicker reconstruction of the 3D-volume. Most recently it even allows a three-dimensional look into the inside of materials with submicron resolution. With the use of nanofocus® tube technology, nanoCT®-systems are pushing forward into application fields that were exclusive to high cost and rare available synchrotron techniques. The study was performed with the new nanotom, a very compact laboratory system which allows the analysis of samples up to 120 mm in diameter and weighing up to 1 kg with exceptional voxel-resolution down to <500 nm (<0.5 microns). It is the first 180 kV nanofocus® computed tomography system in the world which is tailored specifically to the highest-resolution applications in the fields of material science, micro electronics, geology and biology. Therefore it is particularly suitable for nanoCT-examinations e.g. of synthetic materials, metals, ceramics, composite materials, mineral and organic samples. There are a few physical effects influencing the CT quality, such as beam-hardening within the sample or ring-artefacts, which can not be completely avoided. To optimize the quality of high resolution 3D volumes, the nanotom® includes a variety of effective software tools to reduce ring-artefacts and correct beam hardenings or drift effects which occurred during data acquisition. The resulting CT volume data set can be displayed in various ways, for example by virtual slicing and sectional views in any direction of the volume. By the fact that this requires only a mouse click, this technique will substitute destructive mechanical slicing and cutting in many applications. The initial CT results obtained with the nanotom® demonstrate that it is now possible to analyze the three-dimensional micro structure of materials and small objects with submicrometer resolution. Any internal difference in material, density or porosity within a sample can be visualized and data like distances can be measured. NanoCT® widely expands the spectrum of detectable micro-structures. The nanotom® opens a new dimension of 3D-microanalysis and will replace more destructive methods—saving costs and time per sample inspected.

Micro-CT of rodents: state-of-the-art and future perspectives

PubMed Central

Clark, D. P.; Badea, C. T.

2014-01-01

Micron-scale computed tomography (micro-CT) is an essential tool for phenotyping and for elucidating diseases and their therapies. This work is focused on preclinical micro-CT imaging, reviewing relevant principles, technologies, and applications. Commonly, micro-CT provides high-resolution anatomic information, either on its own or in conjunction with lower-resolution functional imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). More recently, however, advanced applications of micro-CT produce functional information by translating clinical applications to model systems (e.g. measuring cardiac functional metrics) and by pioneering new ones (e.g. measuring tumor vascular permeability with nanoparticle contrast agents). The primary limitations of micro-CT imaging are the associated radiation dose and relatively poor soft tissue contrast. We review several image reconstruction strategies based on iterative, statistical, and gradient sparsity regularization, demonstrating that high image quality is achievable with low radiation dose given ever more powerful computational resources. We also review two contrast mechanisms under intense development. The first is spectral contrast for quantitative material discrimination in combination with passive or actively targeted nanoparticle contrast agents. The second is phase contrast which measures refraction in biological tissues for improved contrast and potentially reduced radiation dose relative to standard absorption imaging. These technological advancements promise to develop micro-CT into a commonplace, functional and even molecular imaging modality. PMID:24974176

A Novel Imaging Technique (X-Map) to Identify Acute Ischemic Lesions Using Noncontrast Dual-Energy Computed Tomography.

PubMed

Noguchi, Kyo; Itoh, Toshihide; Naruto, Norihito; Takashima, Shutaro; Tanaka, Kortaro; Kuroda, Satoshi

2017-01-01

We evaluated whether X-map, a novel imaging technique, can visualize ischemic lesions within 20 hours after the onset in patients with acute ischemic stroke, using noncontrast dual-energy computed tomography (DECT). Six patients with acute ischemic stroke were included in this study. Noncontrast head DECT scans were acquired with 2 X-ray tubes operated at 80 kV and Sn150 kV between 32 minutes and 20 hours after the onset. Using these DECT scans, the X-map was reconstructed based on 3-material decomposition and compared with a simulated standard (120 kV) computed tomography (CT) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). The X-map showed more sensitivity to identify the lesions as an area of lower attenuation value than a simulated standard CT in all 6 patients. The lesions on the X-map correlated well with those on DWI. In 3 of 6 patients, the X-map detected a transient decrease in the attenuation value in the peri-infarct area within 1 day after the onset. The X-map is a powerful tool to supplement a simulated standard CT and characterize acute ischemic lesions. However, the X-map cannot replace a simulated standard CT to diagnose acute cerebral infarction. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rapid prototyping modelling in oral and maxillofacial surgery: A two year retrospective study

PubMed Central

Stoor, Patricia; Mesimäki, Karri; Kontio, Risto K.

2015-01-01

Background The use of rapid prototyping (RP) models in medicine to construct bony models is increasing. Material and Methods The aim of the study was to evaluate retrospectively the indication for the use of RP models in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Helsinki University Central Hospital during 2009-2010. Also, the used computed tomography (CT) examination – multislice CT (MSCT) or cone beam CT (CBCT) - method was evaluated. Results In total 114 RP models were fabricated for 102 patients. The mean age of the patients at the time of the production of the model was 50.4 years. The indications for the modelling included malignant lesions (29%), secondary reconstruction (25%), prosthodontic treatment (22%), orthognathic surgery or asymmetry (13%), benign lesions (8%), and TMJ disorders (4%). MSCT examination was used in 92 and CBCT examination in 22 cases. Most of the models (75%) were conventional hard tissue models. Models with colored tumour or other structure(s) of interest were ordered in 24%. Two out of the 114 models were soft tissue models. Conclusions The main benefit of the models was in treatment planning and in connection with the production of pre-bent plates or custom made implants. The RP models both facilitate and improve treatment planning and intraoperative efficiency. Key words:Rapid prototyping, radiology, computed tomography, cone beam computed tomography. PMID:26644837

[The comparison of the expansion of polyps according to the Ki-67 and computed tomography scores].

PubMed

Aydin, Sedat; Sanli, Arif; Tezer, Ilter; Hardal, Umit; Barişik, Nagehan Ozdemir

2009-01-01

The disease extention in nasal polyps was compared by using the mitotic activity rates and the computed tomography scores. This study was conducted on 19 nasal polyposis patients (8 males, 11 females; mean age 40.0+/-13.7 years; range 20 to 63 years). The preoperative computed tomography records of the patients were evaluated according to the Lund-Mackay grading system. The polyp tissues of the same patients were stained with the Ki-67 antigen for immunohistochemical evaluation. The correlation between the radiologic results and the Ki-67 values was compared by means of the Spearman's correlation test. The mean computed tomography score was observed as 14.3+/-4.7 (range 7-24). The mean Ki-67 score resulting from the immunohistochemical staining was calculated as 24.3+/-18.5 (range 3.3-73.5%). A significant correlation was determined between the Ki-67 values and the computed tomography scores. ("Spearman's" correlation factor: 0.677; p<0.001). As the mitotic activity rate of nasal polyps increases, both the volume of the polyps and the computed tomography scores increase as a result of the blockage of the sinus ostiums by the increased polyp volume.

A Projection Quality-Driven Tube Current Modulation Method in Cone-Beam CT for IGRT: Proof of Concept.

PubMed

Men, Kuo; Dai, Jianrong

2017-12-01

To develop a projection quality-driven tube current modulation method in cone-beam computed tomography for image-guided radiotherapy based on the prior attenuation information obtained by the planning computed tomography and then evaluate its effect on a reduction in the imaging dose. The QCKV-1 phantom with different thicknesses (0-400 mm) of solid water upon it was used to simulate different attenuation (μ). Projections were acquired with a series of tube current-exposure time product (mAs) settings, and a 2-dimensional contrast to noise ratio was analyzed for each projection to create a lookup table of mAs versus 2-dimensional contrast to noise ratio, μ. Before a patient underwent computed tomography, the maximum attenuation [Formula: see text] within the 95% range of each projection angle (θ) was estimated according to the planning computed tomography images. Then, a desired 2-dimensional contrast to noise ratio value was selected, and the mAs setting at θ was calculated with the lookup table of mAs versus 2-dimensional contrast to noise ratio,[Formula: see text]. Three-dimensional cone-beam computed tomography images were reconstructed using the projections acquired with the selected mAs. The imaging dose was evaluated with a polymethyl methacrylate dosimetry phantom in terms of volume computed tomography dose index. Image quality was analyzed using a Catphan 503 phantom with an oval body annulus and a pelvis phantom. For the Catphan 503 phantom, the cone-beam computed tomography image obtained by the projection quality-driven tube current modulation method had a similar quality to that of conventional cone-beam computed tomography . However, the proposed method could reduce the imaging dose by 16% to 33% to achieve an equivalent contrast to noise ratio value. For the pelvis phantom, the structural similarity index was 0.992 with a dose reduction of 39.7% for the projection quality-driven tube current modulation method. The proposed method could reduce the additional dose to the patient while not degrading the image quality for cone-beam computed tomography. The projection quality-driven tube current modulation method could be especially beneficial to patients who undergo cone-beam computed tomography frequently during a treatment course.

Morphological and Electrochemical Characterization of Nanostructured Li 4Ti 5O 12 Electrodes Using Multiple Imaging Mode Synchrotron X-ray Computed Tomography

DOE PAGES

Kashkooli, Ali Ghorbani; Foreman, Evan; Farhad, Siamak; ...

2017-09-21

In this study, synchrotron X-ray computed tomography has been utilized using two different imaging modes, absorption and Zernike phase contrast, to reconstruct the real three-dimensional (3D) morphology of nanostructured Li 4Ti 5O 12 (LTO) electrodes. The morphology of the high atomic number active material has been obtained using the absorption contrast mode, whereas the percolated solid network composed of active material and carbon-doped polymer binder domain (CBD) has been obtained using the Zernike phase contrast mode. The 3D absorption contrast image revealed that some LTO nano-particles tend to agglomerate and form secondary micro-sized particles with varying degrees of sphericity. Themore » tortuosity of electrode’s pore and solid phases were found to have directional dependence, different from Bruggeman’s tortuosity commonly used in macro-homogeneous models. The electrode’s heterogeneous structure was investigated by developing a numerical model to simulate galvanostatic discharge process using the Zernike phase contrast mode. The inclusion of CBD in the Zernike phase contrast results in an integrated percolated network of active material and CBD that is highly suited for continuum modeling. As a result, the simulation results highlight the importance of using the real 3D geometry since the spatial distribution of physical and electrochemical properties have a strong non-uniformity due to microstructural heterogeneities.« less

Computational Methods for Nanoscale X-ray Computed Tomography Image Analysis of Fuel Cell and Battery Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Arjun S.

Over the last fifteen years, there has been a rapid growth in the use of high resolution X-ray computed tomography (HRXCT) imaging in material science applications. We use it at nanoscale resolutions up to 50 nm (nano-CT) for key research problems in large scale operation of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in automotive applications. PEMFC are clean energy sources that electrochemically react with hydrogen gas to produce water and electricity. To reduce their costs, capturing their electrode nanostructure has become significant in modeling and optimizing their performance. For Li-ion batteries, a key challenge in increasing their scope for the automotive industry is Li metal dendrite growth. Li dendrites are structures of lithium with 100 nm features of interest that can grow chaotically within a battery and eventually lead to a short-circuit. HRXCT imaging is an effective diagnostics tool for such applications as it is a non-destructive method of capturing the 3D internal X-ray absorption coefficient of materials from a large series of 2D X-ray projections. Despite a recent push to use HRXCT for quantitative information on material samples, there is a relative dearth of computational tools in nano-CT image processing and analysis. Hence, we focus on developing computational methods for nano-CT image analysis of fuel cell and battery materials as required by the limitations in material samples and the imaging environment. The first problem we address is the segmentation of nano-CT Zernike phase contrast images. Nano-CT instruments are equipped with Zernike phase contrast optics to distinguish materials with a low difference in X-ray absorption coefficient by phase shifting the X-ray wave that is not diffracted by the sample. However, it creates image artifacts that hinder the use of traditional image segmentation techniques. To restore such images, we setup an inverse problem by modeling the X-ray phase contrast optics. We solve for the artifact-free images through an optimization function that uses novel edge detection and fast image interpolation methods. We use this optics-based segmentation method in two main research problems - 1) the characterization of a failure mechanism in the internal structure of Li-ion battery electrodes and 2) the measurement of Li metal dendrite morphology for different current and temperature parameters of Li-ion battery cell operation. The second problem we address is the development of a space+time (4D) reconstruction method for in-operando imaging of samples undergoing temporal change, particularly for X-ray sources with low throughput and nanoscale spatial resolutions. The challenge in using such systems is achieving a sufficient temporal resolution despite exposure times of a 2D projection on the order of 1 minute. We develop a 4D dynamic X-ray computed tomography (CT) reconstruction method, capable of reconstructing a temporal 3D image every 2 to 8 projections. Its novel properties are its projection angle sequence and the probabilistic detection of experimental change. We show its accuracy on phantom and experimental datasets to show its promise in temporally resolving Li metal dendrite growth and in elucidating mitigation strategies.

Cement Thickness of Inlay Restorations Made of Lithium Disilicate, Polymer-Infiltrated Ceramic and Nano-Ceramic CAD/CAM Materials Evaluated Using 3D X-Ray Micro-Computed Tomography.

PubMed

Uzgur, Recep; Ercan, Ertuğrul; Uzgur, Zeynep; Çolak, Hakan; Yalçın, Muhammet; Özcan, Mutlu

2016-08-12

To evaluate the marginal and internal cement thicknesses of inlay restorations made of various CAD/CAM materials using 3D X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) technique. Caries-free extracted mandibular molars (N = 30) with similar size were randomly assigned to three groups (N = 10 per group). Mesio-occlusal-distal (MOD) cavities were prepared, and inlay restorations were obtained by milling out CAD/CAM materials namely, (a) IPS: monolithic lithium disilicate (control), (b) VE: polymer-infiltrated ceramic, and (c) CS: nano-ceramic using a CAM unit. Marginal and internal cement thicknesses were measured using 3D micro-CT. Data were analyzed using 1-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (alpha = 0.05). The mean marginal and internal cement thickness were not significant in all inlay materials (p > 0.05). Mean marginal cement thickness (μm) was the lowest for the IPS group (67.54 ± 10.16) followed by VE (84.09 ± 3.94) and CS (95.18 ± 10.58) (p > 0.05). The internal cement thickness (μm) was the lowest in the CS group (54.85 ± 6.94) followed by IPS (60.58 ± 9.22) and VE (77.53 ± 12.13) (p > 0.05). Marginal and internal cement thicknesses of MOD inlays made of monolithic lithium disilicate, polymer-infiltrated ceramic, and nano-ceramic CAD/CAM materials were similar and all less than 100 μm, which could be considered clinically acceptable. MOD inlays made of different CAD/CAM materials presented similar cement thickness, less than 100 μm. © 2016 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Dosimetric evaluation of Plastic Water Diagnostic-Therapy.

PubMed

Ramaseshan, Ramani; Kohli, Kirpal; Cao, Fred; Heaton, Robert K

2008-04-29

High-precision radiotherapy planning and quality assurance require accurate dosimetric and geometric phantom measurements. Phantom design requires materials with mechanical strength and resilience, and dosimetric properties close to those of water over diagnostic and therapeutic ranges. Plastic Water Diagnostic Therapy (PWDT: CIRS, Norfolk, VA) is a phantom material designed for water equivalence in photon beams from 0.04 MeV to 100 MeV; the material has also good mechanical properties. The present article reports the results of computed tomography (CT) imaging and dosimetric studies of PWDT to evaluate the suitability of the material in CT and therapy energy ranges. We characterized the water equivalence of PWDT in a series of experiments in which the basic dosimetric properties of the material were determined for photon energies of 80 kVp, 100 kVp, 250 kVp, 4 MV, 6 MV, 10 MV, and 18 MV. Measured properties included the buildup and percentage depth dose curves for several field sizes, and relative dose factors as a function of field size. In addition, the PWDT phantom underwent CT imaging at beam qualities ranging from 80 kVp to 140 kVp to determine the water equivalence of the phantom in the diagnostic energy range. The dosimetric quantities measured with PWDT agreed within 1.5% of those determined in water and Solid Water (Gammex rmi, Middleton, WI). Computed tomography imaging of the phantom was found to generate Hounsfield numbers within 0.8% of those generated using water. The results suggest that PWDT material is suitable both for regular radiotherapy quality assurance measurements and for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) verification work. Sample IMRT verification results are presented.

Spectral response model for a multibin photon-counting spectral computed tomography detector and its applications.

PubMed

Liu, Xuejin; Persson, Mats; Bornefalk, Hans; Karlsson, Staffan; Xu, Cheng; Danielsson, Mats; Huber, Ben

2015-07-01

Variations among detector channels in computed tomography can lead to ring artifacts in the reconstructed images and biased estimates in projection-based material decomposition. Typically, the ring artifacts are corrected by compensation methods based on flat fielding, where transmission measurements are required for a number of material-thickness combinations. Phantoms used in these methods can be rather complex and require an extensive number of transmission measurements. Moreover, material decomposition needs knowledge of the individual response of each detector channel to account for the detector inhomogeneities. For this purpose, we have developed a spectral response model that binwise predicts the response of a multibin photon-counting detector individually for each detector channel. The spectral response model is performed in two steps. The first step employs a forward model to predict the expected numbers of photon counts, taking into account parameters such as the incident x-ray spectrum, absorption efficiency, and energy response of the detector. The second step utilizes a limited number of transmission measurements with a set of flat slabs of two absorber materials to fine-tune the model predictions, resulting in a good correspondence with the physical measurements. To verify the response model, we apply the model in two cases. First, the model is used in combination with a compensation method which requires an extensive number of transmission measurements to determine the necessary parameters. Our spectral response model successfully replaces these measurements by simulations, saving a significant amount of measurement time. Second, the spectral response model is used as the basis of the maximum likelihood approach for projection-based material decomposition. The reconstructed basis images show a good separation between the calcium-like material and the contrast agents, iodine and gadolinium. The contrast agent concentrations are reconstructed with more than 94% accuracy.

Spectral response model for a multibin photon-counting spectral computed tomography detector and its applications

PubMed Central

Liu, Xuejin; Persson, Mats; Bornefalk, Hans; Karlsson, Staffan; Xu, Cheng; Danielsson, Mats; Huber, Ben

2015-01-01

Abstract. Variations among detector channels in computed tomography can lead to ring artifacts in the reconstructed images and biased estimates in projection-based material decomposition. Typically, the ring artifacts are corrected by compensation methods based on flat fielding, where transmission measurements are required for a number of material-thickness combinations. Phantoms used in these methods can be rather complex and require an extensive number of transmission measurements. Moreover, material decomposition needs knowledge of the individual response of each detector channel to account for the detector inhomogeneities. For this purpose, we have developed a spectral response model that binwise predicts the response of a multibin photon-counting detector individually for each detector channel. The spectral response model is performed in two steps. The first step employs a forward model to predict the expected numbers of photon counts, taking into account parameters such as the incident x-ray spectrum, absorption efficiency, and energy response of the detector. The second step utilizes a limited number of transmission measurements with a set of flat slabs of two absorber materials to fine-tune the model predictions, resulting in a good correspondence with the physical measurements. To verify the response model, we apply the model in two cases. First, the model is used in combination with a compensation method which requires an extensive number of transmission measurements to determine the necessary parameters. Our spectral response model successfully replaces these measurements by simulations, saving a significant amount of measurement time. Second, the spectral response model is used as the basis of the maximum likelihood approach for projection-based material decomposition. The reconstructed basis images show a good separation between the calcium-like material and the contrast agents, iodine and gadolinium. The contrast agent concentrations are reconstructed with more than 94% accuracy. PMID:26839904

Computed Tomography Perfusion Imaging for the Diagnosis of Hepatic Alveolar Echinococcosis

PubMed Central

Sade, Recep; Kantarci, Mecit; Genc, Berhan; Ogul, Hayri; Gundogdu, Betul; Yilmaz, Omer

2018-01-01

Objective: Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a rare life-threatening parasitic infection. Computed tomography perfusion (CTP) imaging has the potential to provide both quantitative and qualitative information about the tissue perfusion characteristics. The purpose of this study was the examination of the characteristic features and feasibility of CTP in AE liver lesions. Material and Methods: CTP scanning was performed in 25 patients who had a total of 35 lesions identified as AE of the liver. Blood flow (BF), blood volume (BV), portal venous perfusion (PVP), arterial liver perfusion (ALP), and hepatic perfusion indexes (HPI) were computed for background liver parenchyma and each AE lesion. Results: Significant differences were detected between perfusion values of the AE lesions and background liver tissue. The BV, BF, ALP, and PVP values for all components of the AE liver lesions were significantly lower than the normal liver parenchyma (p<0.01). Conclusions: We suggest that perfusion imaging can be used in AE of the liver. Thus, the quantitative knowledge of perfusion parameters are obtained via CT perfusion imaging. PMID:29531482

Just Scan It!-Weapon Reconstruction in Computed Tomography on Historical and Current Swiss Military Guns.

PubMed

Franckenberg, Sabine; Binder, Thomas; Bolliger, Stephan; Thali, Michael J; Ross, Steffen G

2016-09-01

Cross-sectional imaging, such as computed tomography, has been increasingly implemented in both historic and recent postmortem forensic investigations. It aids in determining cause and manner of death as well as in correlating injuries to possible weapons. This study illuminates the feasibility of reconstructing guns in computed tomography and gives a distinct overview of historic and recent Swiss Army guns.

The use of computed tomography to diagnose chronic shoulder arthritis in an American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos).

PubMed

Whitehead, Michelle C; Parker, Dennilyn L

2015-03-01

An American white pelican was presented with a complete left wing droop and no abnormal findings on conventional radiography. Computed tomography was used to diagnose chronic shoulder arthritis as a sequela to a suspected traumatic compressive fracture. This is the first case report to describe use of computed tomography to evaluate the avian shoulder joint.

Embracing Statistical Challenges in the Information Technology Age

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-01-01

computation and feature selection. Moreover, two research projects on network tomography and arctic cloud detection are used throughout the paper to bring...prominent Network Tomography problem, origin- destination (OD) traffic estimation. It demonstrates well how the two modes of data collection interact...software debugging (Biblit et al, 2005 [2]), and network tomography for computer network management. Computer sys- tem problems exist long before the IT

Computed Tomography For Internal Inspection Of Castings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hanna, Timothy L.

1995-01-01

Computed tomography used to detect internal flaws in metal castings before machining and otherwise processing them into finished parts. Saves time and money otherwise wasted on machining and other processing of castings eventually rejected because of internal defects. Knowledge of internal defects gained by use of computed tomography also provides guidance for changes in foundry techniques, procedures, and equipment to minimize defects and reduce costs.

The Impact of Computed Tomography on Decision Making in Tibial Plateau Fractures.

PubMed

Castiglia, Marcello Teixeira; Nogueira-Barbosa, Marcello Henrique; Messias, Andre Marcio Vieira; Salim, Rodrigo; Fogagnolo, Fabricio; Schatzker, Joseph; Kfuri, Mauricio

2018-02-14

Schatzker introduced one of the most used classification systems for tibial plateau fractures, based on plain radiographs. Computed tomography brought to attention the importance of coronal plane-oriented fractures. The goal of our study was to determine if the addition of computed tomography would affect the decision making of surgeons who usually use the Schatzker classification to assess tibial plateau fractures. Image studies of 70 patients who sustained tibial plateau fractures were uploaded to a dedicated homepage. Every patient was linked to a folder which contained two radiographic projections (anteroposterior and lateral), three interactive videos of computed tomography (axial, sagittal, and coronal), and eight pictures depicting tridimensional reconstructions of the tibial plateau. Ten attending orthopaedic surgeons, who were blinded to the cases, were granted access to the homepage and assessed each set of images in two different rounds, separated to each other by an interval of 2 weeks. Each case was evaluated in three steps, where surgeons had access, respectively to radiographs, two-dimensional videos of computed tomography, and three-dimensional reconstruction images. After every step, surgeons were asked to present how would they classify the case using the Schatzker system and which surgical approaches would be appropriate. We evaluated the inter- and intraobserver reliability of the Schatzker classification using the Kappa concordance coefficient, as well as the impact of computed tomography in the decision making regarding the surgical approach for each case, by using the chi-square test and likelihood ratio. The interobserver concordance kappa coefficients after each assessment step were, respectively, 0.58, 0.62, and 0.64. For the intraobserver analysis, the coefficients were, respectively, 0.76, 0.75, and 0.78. Computed tomography changed the surgical approach selection for the types II, V, and VI of Schatzker ( p  < 0.01). The addition of computed tomography scans to plain radiographs improved the interobserver reliability of Schatzker classification. Computed tomography had a statistically significant impact in the selection of surgical approaches for the lateral tibial plateau. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

The X-ray attenuation characteristics and density of human calcaneal marrow do not change significantly during adulthood

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Les, C. M.; Whalen, R. T.; Beaupre, G. S.; Yan, C. H.; Cleek, T. M.; Wills, J. S.

2002-01-01

Changes in the material characteristics of bone marrow with aging can be a significant source of error in measurements of bone density when using X-ray and ultrasound imaging modalities. In the context of computed tomography, dual-energy computed techniques have been used to correct for changes in marrow composition. However, dual-energy quantitative computed tomography (DE-QCT) protocols, while increasing the accuracy of the measurement, reduce the precision and increase the radiation dose to the patient in comparison to single-energy quantitative computed tomography (SE-QCT) protocols. If the attenuation properties of the marrow for a particular bone can be shown to be relatively constant with age, it should be possible to use single-energy techniques without experiencing errors caused by unknown marrow composition. Marrow was extracted by centrifugation from 10 mm thick frontal sections of 34 adult cadaver calcanei (28 males, 6 females, ages 17-65 years). The density and energy-dependent linear X-ray attenuation coefficient of each marrow sample were determined. For purposes of comparing our results, we then computed an effective CT number at two GE CT/i scan voltages (80 and 120 kVp) for each specimen. The coefficients of variation for the density, CT number at 80 kVp and CT number at 120 kVp were each less than 1%, and the parameters did not change significantly with age (p > 0.2, r2 < 0.02, power > 0.8 where the minimum acceptable r2 = 0.216). We could demonstrate no significant gender-associated differences in these relationships. These data suggest that calcaneal bone marrow X-ray attenuation properties and marrow density are essentially constant from the third through sixth decades of life.

Bidirectional reflectance distribution function effects in ladar-based reflection tomography.

PubMed

Jin, Xuemin; Levine, Robert Y

2009-07-20

Light reflection from a surface is described by the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF). In this paper, BRDF effects in reflection tomography are studied using modeled range-resolved reflection from well-characterized geometrical surfaces. It is demonstrated that BRDF effects can cause a darkening at the interior boundary of the reconstructed surface analogous to the well-known beam hardening artifact in x-ray transmission computed tomography (CT). This artifact arises from reduced reflection at glancing incidence angles to the surface. It is shown that a purely Lambertian surface without shadowed components is perfectly reconstructed from range-resolved measurements. This result is relevant to newly fabricated carbon nanotube materials. Shadowing is shown to cause crossed streak artifacts similar to limited-angle effects in CT reconstruction. In tomographic reconstruction, these effects can overwhelm highly diffuse components in proximity to specularly reflecting elements. Diffuse components can be recovered by specialized processing, such as reducing glints via thresholded measurements.

Limitations of PET/CT in the Detection of Occult N1 Metastasis in Clinical Stage I(T1-2aN0) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer for Staging Prior to Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy.

PubMed

Akthar, Adil S; Ferguson, Mark K; Koshy, Matthew; Vigneswaran, Wickii T; Malik, Renuka

2017-02-01

Patients receiving stereotactic body radiotherapy for stage I non-small cell lung cancer are typically staged clinically with positron emission tomography-computed tomography. Currently, limited data exist for the detection of occult hilar/peribronchial (N1) disease. We hypothesize that positron emission tomography-computed tomography underestimates spread of cancer to N1 lymph nodes and that future stereotactic body radiotherapy patients may benefit from increased pathologic evaluation of N1 nodal stations in addition to N2 nodes. A retrospective study was performed of all patients with clinical stage I (T1-2aN0) non-small cell lung cancer (American Joint Committee on Cancer, 7th edition) by positron emission tomography-computed tomography at our institution from 2003 to 2011, with subsequent surgical resection and lymph node staging. Findings on positron emission tomography-computed tomography were compared to pathologic nodal involvement to determine the negative predictive value of positron emission tomography-computed tomography for the detection of N1 nodal disease. An analysis was conducted to identify predictors of occult spread. A total of 105 patients with clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer were included in this study, of which 8 (7.6%) patients were found to have occult N1 metastasis on pathologic review yielding a negative predictive value for N1 disease of 92.4%. No patients had occult mediastinal nodes. The negative predictive value for positron emission tomography-computed tomography in patients with clinical stage T1 versus T2 tumors was 72 (96%) of 75 versus 25 (83%) of 30, respectively ( P = .03), and for peripheral versus central tumor location was 77 (98%) of 78 versus 20 (74%) of 27, respectively ( P = .0001). The negative predictive values for peripheral T1 and T2 tumors were 98% and 100%, respectively; while for central T1 and T2 tumors, the rates were 85% and 64%, respectively. Occult lymph node involvement was not associated with primary tumor maximum standard uptake value, histology, grade, or interval between positron emission tomography-computed tomography and surgery. Our results support pathologic assessment of N1 lymph nodes in patients with stage Inon-small cell lung cancer considered for stereotactic body radiotherapy, with the greatest benefit in patients with central and T2 tumors. Diagnostic evaluation with endoscopic bronchial ultrasound should be considered in the evaluation of stereotactic body radiotherapy candidates.

Tissue Engineered Bone Using Polycaprolactone Scaffolds Made by Selective Laser Sintering

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

temporo - mandibular joint (TMJ) pose many challenges for bone tissue engineering. Adverse reactions to alloplastic, non- biological materials result in...producing a prototype mandibular condyle scaffold based on an actual pig condyle. INTRODUCTION Repair and reconstruction of complex joints such as the...computed tomography (CT) data with a designed porous architecture to build a complex scaffold that mimics a mandibular condyle. Results show that

SU-E-E-11: Novel Matching Module for Respiration-Gated Motion Tumor of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to 4DCT

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yu, P; Tsai, Y; Nien, H

2015-06-15

Purpose: Four dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) scans reliably record whole respiratory phase and generate internal target volumes (ITV) for radiotherapy planning. However, image guiding with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) cannot acquire all or specific respiratory phases. This study was designed to investigate the correlation between average CT and Maximum Intensity Projection (MIP) from 4DCT and CBCT. Methods: Retrospective respiratory gating were performed by GE Discovery CT590 RT. 4DCT and CBCT data from CRIS Dynamic Thorax Phantom with simulated breathing mode were analyzed. The lung tissue equivalent material encompassed 3 cm sphere tissue equivalent material. Simulated breathing cycle period was setmore » as 4 seconds, 5 seconds and 6 seconds for representing variation of patient breathing cycle time, and the sphere material moved toward inferior and superior direction with 1 cm amplitude simulating lung tumor motion during respiration. Results: Under lung window, the volume ratio of CBCT scans to ITVs derived from 10 phases average scans was 1.00 ± 0.02, and 1.03 ± 0.03 for ratio of CBCT scans to MIP scans. Under abdomen window, the ratio of CBCT scans to ITVs derived from 10 phases average scans was 0.39 ± 0.06, and 0.06 ± 0.00 for ratio of CBCT scans to MIP scans. There was a significant difference between lung window Result and abdomen window Result. For reducing image guiding uncertainty, CBCT window was set with width 500 and level-250. The ratio of CBCT scans to ITVs derived from 4 phases average scans with abdomen window was 1.19 ± 0.02, and 1.06 ± 0.01 for ratio of CBCT to MIP scans. Conclusion: CBCT images with suitable window width and level can efficiently reduce image guiding uncertainty for patient with mobile tumor. By our setting, we can match motion tumor to gating tumor location on planning CT more accurately neglecting other motion artifacts during CBCT scans.« less

Analysis of bite marks in foodstuffs by computer tomography (cone beam CT)--3D reconstruction.

PubMed

Marques, Jeidson; Musse, Jamilly; Caetano, Catarina; Corte-Real, Francisco; Corte-Real, Ana Teresa

2013-12-01

The use of three-dimensional (3D) analysis of forensic evidence is highlighted in comparison with traditional methods. This three-dimensional analysis is based on the registration of the surface from a bitten object. The authors propose to use Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), which is used in dental practice, in order to study the surface and interior of bitten objects and dental casts of suspects. In this study, CBCT is applied to the analysis of bite marks in foodstuffs, which may be found in a forensic case scenario. 6 different types of foodstuffs were used: chocolate, cheese, apple, chewing gum, pizza and tart (flaky pastry and custard). The food was bitten into and dental casts of the possible suspects were made. The dental casts and bitten objects were registered using an x-ray source and the CBCT equipment iCAT® (Pennsylvania, EUA). The software InVivo5® (Anatomage Inc, EUA) was used to visualize and analyze the tomographic slices and 3D reconstructions of the objects. For each material an estimate of its density was assessed by two methods: HU values and specific gravity. All the used materials were successfully reconstructed as good quality 3D images. The relative densities of the materials in study were compared. Amongst the foodstuffs, the chocolate had the highest density (median value 100.5 HU and 1,36 g/cm(3)), while the pizza showed to have the lowest (median value -775 HU and 0,39 g/cm(3)), on both scales. Through tomographic slices and three-dimensional reconstructions it was possible to perform the metric analysis of the bite marks in all the foodstuffs, except for the pizza. These measurements could also be obtained from the dental casts. The depth of the bite mark was also successfully determined in all the foodstuffs except for the pizza. Cone Beam Computed Tomography has the potential to become an important tool for forensic sciences, namely for the registration and analysis of bite marks in foodstuffs that may be found in a crime scene.

Discordance between Prevalent Vertebral Fracture and Vertebral Strength Estimated by the Finite Element Method Based on Quantitative Computed Tomography in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Background Bone fragility is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but a useful method to estimate bone fragility in T2DM patients is lacking because bone mineral density alone is not sufficient to assess the risk of fracture. This study investigated the association between prevalent vertebral fractures (VFs) and the vertebral strength index estimated by the quantitative computed tomography-based nonlinear finite element method (QCT-based nonlinear FEM) using multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) for clinical practice use. Research Design and Methods A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 54 postmenopausal women and 92 men over 50 years of age, all of whom had T2DM. The vertebral strength index was compared in patients with and without VFs confirmed by spinal radiographs. A standard FEM procedure was performed with the application of known parameters for the bone material properties obtained from nondiabetic subjects. Results A total of 20 women (37.0%) and 39 men (42.4%) with VFs were identified. The vertebral strength index was significantly higher in the men than in the women (P<0.01). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that the vertebral strength index was significantly and positively correlated with the spinal bone mineral density (BMD) and inversely associated with age in both genders. There were no significant differences in the parameters, including the vertebral strength index, between patients with and without VFs. Logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, spine BMD, BMI, HbA1c, and duration of T2DM did not indicate a significant relationship between the vertebral strength index and the presence of VFs. Conclusion The vertebral strength index calculated by QCT-based nonlinear FEM using material property parameters obtained from nondiabetic subjects, whose risk of fracture is lower than that of T2DM patients, was not significantly associated with bone fragility in patients with T2DM. This discordance may indirectly suggest that patients with T2DM have deteriorated bone material compared with nondiabetic subjects, a potential cause of bone fragility in T2DM patients. PMID:26642210

Postmortem whole-body computed tomography angiography visualizing vascular rupture in a case of fatal car crash.

PubMed

Flach, Patricia M; Ross, Steffen G; Bolliger, Stephan A; Preiss, Ulrich S; Thali, Michael J; Spendlove, Danny

2010-01-01

In addition to the increasingly significant role of multislice computed tomography in forensic pathology, the performance of whole-body computed tomography angiography provides outstanding results. In this case, we were able to detect multiple injuries of the parenchymal organs in the upper abdomen as well as lesions of the brain parenchyma and vasculature of the neck. The radiologic findings showed complete concordance with the autopsy and even supplemented the autopsy findings in areas that are difficult to access via a manual dissection (such as the vasculature of the neck). This case shows how minimally invasive computed tomography angiography can serve as an invaluable adjunct to the classic autopsy procedure.

Computed tomography in the evaluation of Crohn disease

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Goldberg, H.I.; Gore, R.M.; Margulis, A.R.

1983-02-01

The abdominal and pelvic computed tomographic examinations in 28 patients with Crohn disease were analyzed and correlated with conventional barium studies, sinograms, and surgical findings. Mucosal abnormalities such as aphthous lesions, pseudopolyps, and ulcerations were only imaged by conventional techniques. Computed tomography proved superior in demonstrating the mural, serosal, and mesenteric abnormalities such as bowel wall thickening (82%), fibrofatty proliferation of mesenteric fat (39%), mesenteric abscess (25%), inflammatory reaction of the mesentery (14%), and mesenteric lymphadenopathy (18%). Computed tomography was most useful clinically in defining the nature of mass effects, separation, or displacement of small bowel segments seen on smallmore » bowel series. Although conventional barium studies remain the initial diagnostic procedure in evaluating Crohn disease, computed tomography can be a useful adjunct in resolving difficult clinical and radiologic diagnostic problems.« less

Early-state damage detection, characterization, and evolution using high-resolution computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grandin, Robert John

Safely using materials in high performance applications requires adequately understanding the mechanisms which control the nucleation and evolution of damage. Most of a material's operational life is spent in a state with noncritical damage, and, for example in metals only a small portion of its life falls within the classical Paris Law regime of crack growth. Developing proper structural health and prognosis models requires understanding the behavior of damage in these early stages within the material's life, and this early-stage damage occurs on length scales at which the material may be considered "granular'' in the sense that the discrete regions which comprise the whole are large enough to require special consideration. Material performance depends upon the characteristics of the granules themselves as well as the interfaces between granules. As a result, properly studying early-stage damage in complex, granular materials requires a means to characterize changes in the granules and interfaces. The granular-scale can range from tenths of microns in ceramics, to single microns in fiber-reinforced composites, to tens of millimeters in concrete. The difficulty of direct-study is often overcome by exhaustive testing of macro-scale damage caused by gross material loads and abuse. Such testing, for example optical or electron microscopy, destructive and further, is costly when used to study the evolution of damage within a material and often limits the study to a few snapshots. New developments in high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) provide the necessary spatial resolution to directly image the granule length-scale of many materials. Successful application of HRCT with fiber-reinforced composites, however, requires extending the HRCT performance beyond current limits. This dissertation will discuss improvements made in the field of CT reconstruction which enable resolutions to be pushed to the point of being able to image the fiber-scale damage structures and the application of this new capability to the study of early-stage damage.

The efficacy of preoperative positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) for detection of lymph node metastasis in cervical and endometrial cancer: clinical and pathological factors influencing it.

PubMed

Nogami, Yuya; Banno, Kouji; Irie, Haruko; Iida, Miho; Kisu, Iori; Masugi, Yohei; Tanaka, Kyoko; Tominaga, Eiichiro; Okuda, Shigeo; Murakami, Koji; Aoki, Daisuke

2015-01-01

We studied the diagnostic performance of (18)F-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography in cervical and endometrial cancers with particular focus on lymph node metastases. Seventy patients with cervical cancer and 53 with endometrial cancer were imaged with (18)F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography before lymphadenectomy. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of (18)F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography using the final pathological diagnoses as the golden standard. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of (18)F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography. In cervical cancer, the results evaluated by cases were 33.3, 92.7, 55.6 and 83.6%, respectively. When evaluated by the area of lymph nodes, the results were 30.6, 98.9, 55.0 and 97.0%, respectively. As for endometrial cancer, the results evaluated by cases were 50.0, 93.9, 40.0 and 95.8%, and by area of lymph nodes, 45.0, 99.4, 64.3 and 98.5%, respectively. The limitation of the efficacy was found out by analyzing it by the region of the lymph node, the size of metastatic node, the historical type of tumor in cervical cancer and the prevalence of lymph node metastasis. The efficacy of positron emission tomography/computed tomography regarding the detection of lymph node metastasis in cervical and endometrial cancer is not established and has limitations associated with the region of the lymph node, the size of metastasis lesion in lymph node and the pathological type of primary tumor. The indication for the imaging and the interpretation of the results requires consideration for each case by the pretest probability based on the information obtained preoperatively. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Diagnostic ability of computed tomography using DentaScan software in endodontics: case reports.

PubMed

Siotia, Jaya; Gupta, Sunil K; Acharya, Shashi R; Saraswathi, Vidya

2011-01-01

Radiographic examination is essential in diagnosis and treatment planning in endodontics. Conventional radiographs depict structures in two dimensions only. The ability to assess the area of interest in three dimensions is advantageous. Computed tomography is an imaging technique which produces three-dimensional images of an object by taking a series of two-dimensional sectional X-ray images. DentaScan is a computed tomography software program that allows the mandible and maxilla to be imaged in three planes: axial, panoramic, and cross-sectional. As computed tomography is used in endodontics, DentaScan can play a wider role in endodontic diagnosis. It provides valuable information in the assessment of the morphology of the root canal, diagnosis of root fractures, internal and external resorptions, pre-operative assessment of anatomic structures etc. The aim of this article is to explore the clinical usefulness of computed tomography and DentaScan in endodontic diagnosis, through a series of four cases of different endodontic problems.

Recent Scientific Evidence and Technical Developments in Cardiovascular Computed Tomography.

PubMed

Marcus, Roy; Ruff, Christer; Burgstahler, Christof; Notohamiprodjo, Mike; Nikolaou, Konstantin; Geisler, Tobias; Schroeder, Stephen; Bamberg, Fabian

2016-05-01

In recent years, coronary computed tomography angiography has become an increasingly safe and noninvasive modality for the evaluation of the anatomical structure of the coronary artery tree with diagnostic benefits especially in patients with a low-to-intermediate pretest probability of disease. Currently, increasing evidence from large randomized diagnostic trials is accumulating on the diagnostic impact of computed tomography angiography for the management of patients with acute and stable chest pain syndrome. At the same time, technical advances have substantially reduced adverse effects and limiting factors, such as radiation exposure, the amount of iodinated contrast agent, and scanning time, rendering the technique appropriate for broader clinical applications. In this work, we review the latest developments in computed tomography technology and describe the scientific evidence on the use of cardiac computed tomography angiography to evaluate patients with acute and stable chest pain syndrome. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Materials Characterization of Electron Beam Melted Ti-6Al-4V

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Draper, Susan; Lerch, Brad; Rogers, Richard; Martin, Richard; Locci, Ivan; Garg, Anita

2015-01-01

An in-depth material characterization of Electron Beam Melted (EBM) Ti-6Al-4V material has been completed. Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) was utilized to close porosity from fabrication and also served as a material heat treatment to obtain the desired microstructure. The changes in the microstructure and chemistry from the powder to pre-HIP and post-HIP material have been analyzed. Computed tomography (CT) scans indicated porosity closure during HIP and high-density inclusions scattered throughout the specimens. The results of tensile and high cycle fatigue (HCF) testing are compared to conventional Ti-6Al-4V. The EBM Ti-6Al-4V had similar or superior mechanical properties compared to conventionally manufactured Ti-6Al-4V.

Dental application of novel finite element analysis software for three-dimensional finite element modeling of a dentulous mandible from its computed tomography images.

PubMed

Nakamura, Keiko; Tajima, Kiyoshi; Chen, Ker-Kong; Nagamatsu, Yuki; Kakigawa, Hiroshi; Masumi, Shin-ich

2013-12-01

This study focused on the application of novel finite-element analysis software for constructing a finite-element model from the computed tomography data of a human dentulous mandible. The finite-element model is necessary for evaluating the mechanical response of the alveolar part of the mandible, resulting from occlusal force applied to the teeth during biting. Commercially available patient-specific general computed tomography-based finite-element analysis software was solely applied to the finite-element analysis for the extraction of computed tomography data. The mandibular bone with teeth was extracted from the original images. Both the enamel and the dentin were extracted after image processing, and the periodontal ligament was created from the segmented dentin. The constructed finite-element model was reasonably accurate using a total of 234,644 nodes and 1,268,784 tetrahedral and 40,665 shell elements. The elastic moduli of the heterogeneous mandibular bone were determined from the bone density data of the computed tomography images. The results suggested that the software applied in this study is both useful and powerful for creating a more accurate three-dimensional finite-element model of a dentulous mandible from the computed tomography data without the need for any other software.

Utility of Quantitative Parameters from Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography in Patients with Destructive Thyroiditis

PubMed Central

Kim, Ji-Young; Kim, Ji Hyun; Moon, Jae Hoon; Kim, Kyoung Min; Oh, Tae Jung; Lee, Dong-Hwa; So, Young

2018-01-01

Objective Quantitative parameters from Tc-99m pertechnetate single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) are emerging as novel diagnostic markers for functional thyroid diseases. We intended to assess the utility of SPECT/CT parameters in patients with destructive thyroiditis. Materials and Methods Thirty-five destructive thyroiditis patients (7 males and 28 females; mean age, 47.3 ± 13.0 years) and 20 euthyroid patients (6 males and 14 females; mean age, 45.0 ± 14.8 years) who underwent Tc-99m pertechnetate quantitative SPECT/CT were retrospectively enrolled. Quantitative parameters from the SPECT/CT (%uptake, standardized uptake value [SUV], thyroid volume, and functional thyroid mass [SUVmean × thyroid volume]) and thyroid hormone levels were investigated to assess correlations and predict the prognosis for destructive thyroiditis. The occurrence of hypothyroidism was the outcome for prognosis. Results All the SPECT/CT quantitative parameters were significantly lower in the 35 destructive thyroiditis patients compared to the 20 euthyroid patients using the same SPECT/CT scanner and protocol (p < 0.001 for all parameters). T3 and free T4 did not correlate with any SPECT/CT parameters, but thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) significantly correlated with %uptake (p = 0.004), SUVmean (p < 0.001), SUVmax (p = 0.002), and functional thyroid mass (p < 0.001). Of the 35 destructive thyroiditis patients, 16 progressed to hypothyroidism. On univariate and multivariate analyses, only T3 levels were associated with the later occurrence of hypothyroidism (p = 0.002, exp(β) = 1.022, 95% confidence interval: 1.008 – 1.035). Conclusion Novel quantitative SPECT/CT parameters could discriminate patients with destructive thyroiditis from euthyroid patients, suggesting the robustness of the quantitative SPECT/CT approach. However, disease progression of destructive thyroiditis could not be predicted using the parameters, as these only correlated with TSH, but not with T3, the sole predictor of the later occurrence of hypothyroidism. PMID:29713225

Novel Application of Quantitative Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography to Predict Early Response to Methimazole in Graves' Disease

PubMed Central

Kim, Hyun Joo; Bang, Ji-In; Kim, Ji-Young; Moon, Jae Hoon; So, Young

2017-01-01

Objective Since Graves' disease (GD) is resistant to antithyroid drugs (ATDs), an accurate quantitative thyroid function measurement is required for the prediction of early responses to ATD. Quantitative parameters derived from the novel technology, single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT), were investigated for the prediction of achievement of euthyroidism after methimazole (MMI) treatment in GD. Materials and Methods A total of 36 GD patients (10 males, 26 females; mean age, 45.3 ± 13.8 years) were enrolled for this study, from April 2015 to January 2016. They underwent quantitative thyroid SPECT/CT 20 minutes post-injection of 99mTc-pertechnetate (5 mCi). Association between the time to biochemical euthyroidism after MMI treatment and %uptake, standardized uptake value (SUV), functional thyroid mass (SUVmean × thyroid volume) from the SPECT/CT, and clinical/biochemical variables, were investigated. Results GD patients had a significantly greater %uptake (6.9 ± 6.4%) than historical control euthyroid patients (n = 20, 0.8 ± 0.5%, p < 0.001) from the same quantitative SPECT/CT protocol. Euthyroidism was achieved in 14 patients at 156 ± 62 days post-MMI treatment, but 22 patients had still not achieved euthyroidism by the last follow-up time-point (208 ± 80 days). In the univariate Cox regression analysis, the initial MMI dose (p = 0.014), %uptake (p = 0.015), and functional thyroid mass (p = 0.016) were significant predictors of euthyroidism in response to MMI treatment. However, only %uptake remained significant in a multivariate Cox regression analysis (p = 0.034). A %uptake cutoff of 5.0% dichotomized the faster responding versus the slower responding GD patients (p = 0.006). Conclusion A novel parameter of thyroid %uptake from quantitative SPECT/CT is a predictive indicator of an early response to MMI in GD patients. PMID:28458607

Rib Radiography versus Chest Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Rib Fractures.

PubMed

Sano, Atsushi

2018-05-01

 The accurate diagnosis of rib fractures is important in chest trauma. Diagnostic images following chest trauma are usually obtained via chest X-ray, chest computed tomography, or rib radiography. This study evaluated the diagnostic characteristics of rib radiography and chest computed tomography.  Seventy-five rib fracture patients who underwent both chest computed tomography and rib radiography between April 2008 and December 2013 were included. Rib radiographs, centered on the site of pain, were taken from two directions. Chest computed tomography was performed using a 16-row multidetector scanner with 5-mm slice-pitch without overlap, and axial images were visualized in a bone window.  In total, 217 rib fractures were diagnosed in 75 patients. Rib radiography missed 43 rib fractures in 24 patients. The causes were overlap with organs in 15 cases, trivial fractures in 21 cases, and injury outside the imaging range in 7 cases. Left lower rib fractures were often missed due to overlap with the heart, while middle and lower rib fractures were frequently not diagnosed due to overlap with abdominal organs. Computed tomography missed 21 rib fractures in 17 patients. The causes were horizontal fractures in 10 cases, trivial fractures in 9 cases, and insufficient breath holding in 1 case.  In rib radiography, overlap with organs and fractures outside the imaging range were characteristic reasons for missed diagnoses. In chest computed tomography, horizontal rib fractures and insufficient breath holding were often responsible. We should take these challenges into account when diagnosing rib fractures. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

64 slice-coronary computed tomography sensitivity and specificity in the evaluation of coronary artery bypass graft stenosis: A meta-analysis.

PubMed

Barbero, Umberto; Iannaccone, Mario; d'Ascenzo, Fabrizio; Barbero, Cristina; Mohamed, Abdirashid; Annone, Umberto; Benedetto, Sara; Celentani, Dario; Gagliardi, Marco; Moretti, Claudio; Gaita, Fiorenzo

2016-08-01

A non-invasive approach to define grafts patency and stenosis in the follow-up of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients may be an interesting alternative to coronary angiography. 64-slice-coronary computed tomography is nowadays a diffused non-invasive method that permits an accurate evaluation of coronary stenosis, due to a high temporal and spatial resolution. However, its sensitivity and specificity in CABG evaluation has to be clearly defined, since published studies used different protocols and scanners. We collected all studies investigating patients with stable symptoms and previous CABG and reporting the comparison between diagnostic performances of invasive coronary angiography and 64-slice-coronary computed tomography. As a result, sensitivity and specificity of 64-slice-coronary computed tomography for CABG occlusion were 0.99 (95% CI 0.97-1.00) and 0.99 (95% CI: 0.99-1.00) with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.99. 64-slice-coronary computed tomography sensitivity and specificity for the presence of any CABG stenosis >50% were 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97-0.99) and 0.98 (95% CI: 0.96-0.98), while AUC was 0.99. At meta-regression, neither the age nor the time from graft implantation had effect on sensitivity and specificity of 64-slice-coronary computed tomography detection of significant CABG stenosis or occlusion. In conclusion 64-slice-coronary computed tomography confirmed its high sensitivity and specificity in CABG stenosis or occlusion evaluation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quadruple Axis Neutron Computed Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schillinger, Burkhard; Bausenwein, Dominik

Neutron computed tomography takes more time for a full tomography than X-rays or Synchrotron radiation, because the source intensity is limited. Most neutron imaging detectors have a square field of view, so if tomography of elongated, narrow samples, e.g. fuel rods, sword blades is recorded, much of the detector area is wasted. Using multiple rotation axes, several samples can be placed inside the field of view, and multiple tomographies can be recorded at the same time by later splitting the recorded images into separate tomography data sets. We describe a new multiple-axis setup using four independent miniaturized rotation tables.

Impact of Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography (SPECT/CT) and Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) in the Diagnosis of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Case Report.

PubMed

Molina-Vicenty, Irma L; Santiago-Sánchez, Michelaldemar; Vélez-Miró, Iván; Motta-Valencia, Keryl

2016-09-01

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is defined as damage to the brain resulting from an external force. TBI, a global leading cause of death and disability, is associated with serious social, economic, and health problems. In cases of mild-to-moderate brain damage, conventional anatomical imaging modalities may or may not detect the cascade of metabolic changes that have occurred or are occurring at the intracellular level. Functional nuclear medicine imaging and neurophysiological parameters can be used to characterize brain damage, as the former provides direct visualization of brain function, even in the absence of overt behavioral manifestations or anatomical findings. We report the case of a 30-year-old Hispanic male veteran who, after 2 traumatic brain injury events, developed cognitive and neuropsychological problems with no clear etiology in the presence of negative computed tomography (CT) findings.

Recent advances in electron tomography: TEM and HAADF-STEM tomography for materials science and semiconductor applications.

PubMed

Kübel, Christian; Voigt, Andreas; Schoenmakers, Remco; Otten, Max; Su, David; Lee, Tan-Chen; Carlsson, Anna; Bradley, John

2005-10-01

Electron tomography is a well-established technique for three-dimensional structure determination of (almost) amorphous specimens in life sciences applications. With the recent advances in nanotechnology and the semiconductor industry, there is also an increasing need for high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) structural information in physical sciences. In this article, we evaluate the capabilities and limitations of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-angle-annular-dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) tomography for the 3D structural characterization of partially crystalline to highly crystalline materials. Our analysis of catalysts, a hydrogen storage material, and different semiconductor devices shows that features with a diameter as small as 1-2 nm can be resolved in three dimensions by electron tomography. For partially crystalline materials with small single crystalline domains, bright-field TEM tomography provides reliable 3D structural information. HAADF-STEM tomography is more versatile and can also be used for high-resolution 3D imaging of highly crystalline materials such as semiconductor devices.

Usefulness of Tc99m-mebrofenin Hepatobiliary Scintigraphy and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Bronchobiliary Fistula.

PubMed

Parghane, Rahul Vithalrao; Phulsunga, Rohit Kumar; Gupta, Rajesh; Basher, Rajender Kumar; Bhattacharya, Anish; Mittal, Bhagwant Rai

2017-01-01

Bronchobiliary fistula (BBF), a rare complication of liver disease, is an abnormal communication between the biliary tract and bronchial tree. BBF may occur as a consequence of local liver infections such as hydatid or amebic disease, pyogenic liver abscess or trauma to the liver, obstruction of biliary tract, and tumor. As such management of liver disease with BBF is very difficult and often associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, timely diagnosis of BBF is imperative. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy along with hybrid single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography using Tc99m-mebrofenin is a very useful noninvasive imaging modality, in the diagnosis of BBF.

Usefulness of Tc99m-mebrofenin Hepatobiliary Scintigraphy and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Bronchobiliary Fistula

PubMed Central

Parghane, Rahul Vithalrao; Phulsunga, Rohit Kumar; Gupta, Rajesh; Basher, Rajender Kumar; Bhattacharya, Anish; Mittal, Bhagwant Rai

2017-01-01

Bronchobiliary fistula (BBF), a rare complication of liver disease, is an abnormal communication between the biliary tract and bronchial tree. BBF may occur as a consequence of local liver infections such as hydatid or amebic disease, pyogenic liver abscess or trauma to the liver, obstruction of biliary tract, and tumor. As such management of liver disease with BBF is very difficult and often associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, timely diagnosis of BBF is imperative. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy along with hybrid single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography using Tc99m-mebrofenin is a very useful noninvasive imaging modality, in the diagnosis of BBF. PMID:29033682

Weightbearing Computed Tomography of the Foot and Ankle: Emerging Technology Topical Review.

PubMed

Barg, Alexej; Bailey, Travis; Richter, Martinus; de Cesar Netto, Cesar; Lintz, François; Burssens, Arne; Phisitkul, Phinit; Hanrahan, Christopher J; Saltzman, Charles L

2018-03-01

In the last decade, cone-beam computed tomography technology with improved designs allowing flexible gantry movements has allowed both supine and standing weight-bearing imaging of the lower extremity. There is an increasing amount of literature describing the use of weightbearing computed tomography in patients with foot and ankle disorders. To date, there is no review article summarizing this imaging modality in the foot and ankle. Therefore, we performed a systematic literature review of relevant clinical studies targeting the use of weightbearing computed tomography in diagnosis of patients with foot and ankle disorders. Furthermore, this review aims to offer insight to those with interest in considering possible future research opportunities with use of this technology. Level V, expert opinion.

Piecewise-Constant-Model-Based Interior Tomography Applied to Dentin Tubules

DOE PAGES

He, Peng; Wei, Biao; Wang, Steve; ...

2013-01-01

Dentin is a hierarchically structured biomineralized composite material, and dentin’s tubules are difficult to study in situ. Nano-CT provides the requisite resolution, but the field of view typically contains only a few tubules. Using a plate-like specimen allows reconstruction of a volume containing specific tubules from a number of truncated projections typically collected over an angular range of about 140°, which is practically accessible. Classical computed tomography (CT) theory cannot exactly reconstruct an object only from truncated projections, needless to say a limited angular range. Recently, interior tomography was developed to reconstruct a region-of-interest (ROI) from truncated data in amore » theoretically exact fashion via the total variation (TV) minimization under the condition that the ROI is piecewise constant. In this paper, we employ a TV minimization interior tomography algorithm to reconstruct interior microstructures in dentin from truncated projections over a limited angular range. Compared to the filtered backprojection (FBP) reconstruction, our reconstruction method reduces noise and suppresses artifacts. Volume rendering confirms the merits of our method in terms of preserving the interior microstructure of the dentin specimen.« less

Determination of dosimetric quantities in pediatric abdominal computed tomography scans*

PubMed Central

Jornada, Tiago da Silva; da Silva, Teógenes Augusto

2014-01-01

Objective Aiming at contributing to the knowledge on doses in computed tomography (CT), this study has the objective of determining dosimetric quantities associated with pediatric abdominal CT scans, comparing the data with diagnostic reference levels (DRL). Materials and methods The study was developed with a Toshiba Asteion single-slice CT scanner and a GE BrightSpeed multi-slice CT unit in two hospitals. Measurements were performed with a pencil-type ionization chamber and a 16 cm-diameter polymethylmethacrylate trunk phantom. Results No significant difference was observed in the values for weighted air kerma index (CW), but the differences were relevant in values for volumetric air kerma index (CVOL), air kerma-length product (PKL,CT) and effective dose. Conclusion Only the CW values were lower than the DRL, suggesting that dose optimization might not be necessary. However, PKL,CT and effective dose values stressed that there still is room for reducing pediatric radiation doses. The present study emphasizes the importance of determining all dosimetric quantities associated with CT scans. PMID:25741103

Three-Dimensional Printed Prosthesis for Repair of Superior Canal Dehiscence.

PubMed

Kozin, Elliott D; Remenschneider, Aaron K; Cheng, Song; Nakajima, Hideko Heidi; Lee, Daniel J

2015-10-01

Outcomes following repair of superior canal dehiscence (SCD) are variable, and surgery carries a risk of persistent or recurrent SCD symptoms, as well as a risk of hearing loss and vestibulopathy. Poor outcomes may occur from inadequate repair of the SCD or mechanical insult to the membranous labyrinth. Repair of SCD using a customized, fixed-length prosthesis may address current operative limitations and improve surgical outcomes. We aim to 3-dimensionally print customized prostheses to resurface or occlude bony SCD defects. Dehiscences were created along the arcuate eminence of superior semicircular canals in cadaveric temporal bones. Prostheses were designed and created using computed tomography and a 3-dimensional printer. The prostheses occupied the superior semicircular canal defect, reflected in postrepair computed tomography scans. This novel approach to SCD repair could have advantages over current techniques. Refinement of prosthesis design and materials will be important if this approach is translated into clinical use. © American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation 2015.

Evaluation of Computed Tomography of Mock Uranium Fuel Rods at the Advanced Photon Source

DOE PAGES

Hunter, James F.; Brown, Donald William; Okuniewski, Maria

2015-06-01

This study discusses a multi-year effort to evaluate the utility of computed tomography at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) as a tool for non-destructive evaluation of uranium based fuel rods. The majority of the data presented is on mock material made with depleted uranium which mimics the x-ray attenuation characteristics of fuel rods while allowing for simpler handling. A range of data is presented including full thickness (5mm diameter) fuel rodlets, reduced thickness (1.8mm) sintering test samples, and pre/post irradiation samples (< 1mm thick). These data were taken on both a white beam (bending magnet) beamline and a high energy,more » monochromatic beamline. This data shows the utility of a synchrotron type source in the evealuation of manufacturing defects (pre-irradiation) and lays out the case for in situ CT of fuel pellet sintering. Finally, in addition data is shown from small post-irradiation samples and a case is made for post-irradiation CT of larger samples.« less

Computed Tomography to Estimate the Representative Elementary Area for Soil Porosity Measurements

PubMed Central

Borges, Jaqueline Aparecida Ribaski; Pires, Luiz Fernando; Belmont Pereira, André

2012-01-01

Computed tomography (CT) is a technique that provides images of different solid and porous materials. CT could be an ideal tool to study representative sizes of soil samples because of the noninvasive characteristic of this technique. The scrutiny of such representative elementary sizes (RESs) has been the target of attention of many researchers related to soil physics field owing to the strong relationship between physical properties and size of the soil sample. In the current work, data from gamma-ray CT were used to assess RES in measurements of soil porosity (ϕ). For statistical analysis, a study on the full width at a half maximum (FWHM) of the adjustment of distribution of ϕ at different areas (1.2 to 1162.8 mm2) selected inside of tomographic images was proposed herein. The results obtained point out that samples with a section area corresponding to at least 882.1 mm2 were the ones that provided representative values of ϕ for the studied Brazilian tropical soil. PMID:22666133

Retrospective study of root canal configurations of maxillary third molars in Central India population using cone beam computed tomography Part- I

PubMed Central

Rawtiya, Manjusha; Somasundaram, Pavithra; Wadhwani, Shefali; Munuga, Swapna; Agarwal, Manish; Sethi, Priyank

2016-01-01

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the root and canal morphology of maxillary third molars in Central India population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis. Materials and Methods: CBCT images of 116 maxillary third molars were observed, and data regarding the number of roots, the number of canals, and Vertucci's Classification in each root was statistically evaluated. Results: Majority of Maxillary third molars had three roots (55.2%) and three canals (37.9%). Most MB root (43.8%), DB root (87.5%), and palatal root (100%) of maxillary third molars had Vertucci Type I. Mesiobuccal root of three-rooted maxillary third molars had Vertucci Type I (43.8%) and Type IV (40.6%) configuration. Overall prevalence of C-shaped canals in maxillary third molars was 3.4%. Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of three-rooted maxillary molars with three canals. PMID:27011747

Endodontic management of maxillary first molar with seven root canals diagnosed using Cone Beam Computed Tomography scanning

PubMed Central

Raghavendra, Srinidhi Surya; Hindlekar, Ajit Narayan; Desai, Niranjan Nanasaheb; Vyavahare, Nishant Kishor; Napte, Bandu Devrao

2014-01-01

The main objective of root canal treatment is thorough cleaning and shaping of the entire pulp space and its complete filling with an inert filling material. A major cause of post-treatment disease is the inability to locate, debride or adequately fill all canals of the root canal system. The form, configuration, and number of root canals in the maxillary first molars have been discussed for more than half a century. Maxillary first molars commonly present with three roots and three canals, with a second mesiobuccal canal (MB2) also present. With the advent of improved magnification there are reports of multiple root canals in the maxillary first molars. Nonsurgical endodontic therapy of a left maxillary first molar with three roots and seven root canals was successfully performed under a dental operating microscope. The diagnosis of multiple root canals was confirmed with the help of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images. PMID:25565745

Analysis of micro computed tomography images; a look inside historic enamelled metal objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van der Linden, Veerle; van de Casteele, Elke; Thomas, Mienke Simon; de Vos, Annemie; Janssen, Elsje; Janssens, Koen

2010-02-01

In this study the usefulness of micro-Computed Tomography (µ-CT) for the in-depth analysis of enamelled metal objects was tested. Usually investigations of enamelled metal artefacts are restricted to non-destructive surface analysis or analysis of cross sections after destructive sampling. Radiography, a commonly used technique in the field of cultural heritage studies, is limited to providing two-dimensional information about a three-dimensional object (Lang and Middleton, Radiography of Cultural Material, pp. 60-61, Elsevier-Butterworth-Heinemann, Amsterdam-Stoneham-London, 2005). Obtaining virtual slices and information about the internal structure of these objects was made possible by CT analysis. With this technique the underlying metal work was studied without removing the decorative enamel layer. Moreover visible defects such as cracks were measured in both width and depth and as of yet invisible defects and weaker areas are visualised. All these features are of great interest to restorers and conservators as they allow a view inside these objects without so much as touching them.

A comparison between digital radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance in the detection of gunshot residues in burnt tissues and bone.

PubMed

Amadasi, Alberto; Borgonovo, Simone; Brandone, Alberto; Di Giancamillo, Mauro; Cattaneo, Cristina

2014-05-01

The radiological search for GSR is crucial in burnt material although it has been rarely tested. In this study, thirty-one bovine ribs were shot at near-contact range and burnt to calcination in an oven simulating a real combustion. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) were performed before and after carbonization and compared with former analyses with DR (digital radiography); thus comparing the assistance, the radiological methods can provide in the search for GSR in fresh and burnt bone. DR demonstrated the greatest ability in the detection of metallic residues, CT showed lower abilities, while MR showed a high sensitivity only in soft tissues. Thus, DR can be considered as the most sensitive method in the detection of GSR in charred bones, whereas CT and MR demonstrated much less reliability. Nonetheless, the MR ameliorates the analysis of gunshot wounds in other types of remains with large quantities of soft tissues. © 2013 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Imaging and Analysis of Void-defects in Solder Joints Formed in Reduced Gravity using High-Resolution Computed Tomography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Easton, John W.; Struk, Peter M.; Rotella, Anthony

2008-01-01

As a part of efforts to develop an electronics repair capability for long duration space missions, techniques and materials for soldering components on a circuit board in reduced gravity must be developed. This paper presents results from testing solder joint formation in low gravity on a NASA Reduced Gravity Research Aircraft. The results presented include joints formed using eutectic tin-lead solder and one of the following fluxes: (1) a no-clean flux core, (2) a rosin flux core, and (3) a solid solder wire with external liquid no-clean flux. The solder joints are analyzed with a computed tomography (CT) technique which imaged the interior of the entire solder joint. This replaced an earlier technique that required the solder joint to be destructively ground down revealing a single plane which was subsequently analyzed. The CT analysis technique is described and results presented with implications for future testing as well as implications for the overall electronics repair effort discussed.

Computer Tomography 3-D Imaging of the Metal Deformation Flow Path in Friction Stir Welding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, Judy; Beshears, Ronald; Nunes, Arthur C., Jr.

2004-01-01

In friction stir welding, a rotating threaded pin tool is inserted into a weld seam and literally stirs the edges of the seam together. This solid-state technique has been successfully used in the joining of materials that are difficult to fusion weld such as aluminum alloys. To determine optimal processing parameters for producing a defect free weld, a better understanding of the resulting metal deformation flow path is required. Marker studies are the principal method of studying the metal deformation flow path around the FSW pin tool. In our study, we have used computed tomography (CT) scans to reveal the flow pattern of a lead wire embedded in a FSW weld seam. At the welding temperature of aluminum, the lead becomes molten and thus tracks the aluminum deformation flow paths in a unique 3-dimensional manner. CT scanning is a convenient and comprehensive way of collecting and displaying tracer data. It marks an advance over previous more tedious and ambiguous radiographic/metallographic data collection methods.

Eigenvector decomposition of full-spectrum x-ray computed tomography.

PubMed

Gonzales, Brian J; Lalush, David S

2012-03-07

Energy-discriminated x-ray computed tomography (CT) data were projected onto a set of basis functions to suppress the noise in filtered back-projection (FBP) reconstructions. The x-ray CT data were acquired using a novel x-ray system which incorporated a single-pixel photon-counting x-ray detector to measure the x-ray spectrum for each projection ray. A matrix of the spectral response of different materials was decomposed using eigenvalue decomposition to form the basis functions. Projection of FBP onto basis functions created a de facto image segmentation of multiple contrast agents. Final reconstructions showed significant noise suppression while preserving important energy-axis data. The noise suppression was demonstrated by a marked improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) along the energy axis for multiple regions of interest in the reconstructed images. Basis functions used on a more coarsely sampled energy axis still showed an improved SNR. We conclude that the noise-resolution trade off along the energy axis was significantly improved using the eigenvalue decomposition basis functions.

Correlation Between Findings of Multislice Helical Computed Tomography (CT), Endoscopic Examinations, Endovascular Procedures, and Surgery in Patients with Symptoms of Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding

PubMed Central

Konecki, Dariusz; Pacho, Ryszard; Rowiński, Olgierd

2017-01-01

Summary Background Endoscopic methods (gastroscopy and colonoscopy) are considered fundamental for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding. In recent years, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) has also gained importance in diagnosing gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly in hemodynamically unstable patients and in cases with suspected lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding. CT can detect both the source and the cause of active gastrointestinal bleeding, thereby expediting treatment initiation. Material/Methods The study group consisted of 16 patients with clinical symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding in whom features of active bleeding were observed on CT. In all patients, bleeding was verified by means of other methods such as endoscopic examinations, endovascular procedures, or surgery. Results The bleeding source was identified on CT in all 16 patients. In 14 cases (87.5%), bleeding was confirmed by other methods. Conclusions CT is an efficient, fast, and readily available tool for detecting the location of acute gastrointestinal bleeding. PMID:29662594

Comparison of ultrasonography, radiography and a single computed tomography slice for the identification of fluid within the tympanic bulla of rabbit cadavers.

PubMed

King, A M; Posthumus, J; Hammond, G; Sullivan, M

2012-08-01

Evaluation of the tympanic bulla (TB) in cases of otitis media in the rabbit can be a diagnostic challenge, although a feature often associated with the condition is the accumulation of fluid or material within the TB. Randomly selected TB from 40 rabbit cadavers were filled with a water-based, water-soluble jelly lubricant. A dorsoventral radiograph and single computed tomography (CT) slice were taken followed by an ultrasound (US) examination. Image interpretation was performed by blinded operators. The content of each TB was determined (fluid or gas) using each technique and the cadavers were frozen and sectioned for confirmation. CT was the most accurate diagnostic method, but US produced better results than radiography. Given the advantages of US over the other imaging techniques, the results suggest that further work is warranted to determine US applications in the evaluation of the rabbit TB and clinical cases of otitis media in this species. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimization of coronary attenuation in coronary computed tomography angiography using diluted contrast material.

PubMed

Kawaguchi, Naoto; Kurata, Akira; Kido, Teruhito; Nishiyama, Yoshiko; Kido, Tomoyuki; Miyagawa, Masao; Ogimoto, Akiyoshi; Mochizuki, Teruhito

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a personalized protocol with diluted contrast material (CM) for coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). One hundred patients with suspected coronary artery disease underwent retrospective electrocardiogram-gated coronary CTA on a 256-slice multidetector-row CT scanner. In the diluted CM protocol (n=50), the optimal scan timing and CM dilution rate were determined by the timing bolus scan, with 20% CM dilution (5ml/s during 10s) being considered suitable to achieve the target arterial attenuation of 350 Hounsfield units (HU). In the body weight (BW)-adjusted protocol (n=50, 222mg iodine/kg), only the optimal scan timing was determined by the timing bolus scan. The injection rate and volume in the timing bolus scan and real scan were identical between the 2 protocols. We compared the means and variations in coronary attenuation between the 2 protocols. Coronary attenuation (mean±SD) in the diluted CM and BW-adjusted protocols was 346.1±23.9 HU and 298.8±45.2 HU, respectively. The diluted CM protocol provided significantly higher coronary attenuation and lower variance than did the BW-adjusted protocol (P<0.05, in each). The diluted CM protocol facilitates more uniform attenuation on coronary CTA in comparison with the BW-adjusted protocol.  

Evaluating the risk of appendiceal perforation when using ultrasound as the initial diagnostic imaging modality in children with suspected appendicitis.

PubMed

Alerhand, Stephen; Meltzer, James; Tay, Ee Tein

2017-08-01

Ultrasound scan has gained attention for diagnosing appendicitis due to its avoidance of ionizing radiation. However, studies show that ultrasound scan carries inferior sensitivity to computed tomography scan. A non-diagnostic ultrasound scan could increase the time to diagnosis and appendicectomy, particularly if follow-up computed tomography scan is needed. Some studies suggest that delaying appendicectomy increases the risk of perforation. To investigate the risk of appendiceal perforation when using ultrasound scan as the initial diagnostic imaging modality in children with suspected appendicitis. We retrospectively reviewed 1411 charts of children ≤17 years old diagnosed with appendicitis at two urban academic medical centers. Patients who underwent ultrasound scan first were compared to those who underwent computed tomography scan first. In the sub-group analysis, patients who only received ultrasound scan were compared to those who received initial ultrasound scan followed by computed tomography scan. Main outcome measures were appendiceal perforation rate and time from triage to appendicectomy. In 720 children eligible for analysis, there was no significant difference in perforation rate between those who had initial ultrasound scan and those who had initial computed tomography scan (7.3% vs. 8.9%, p = 0.44), nor in those who had ultrasound scan only and those who had initial ultrasound scan followed by computed tomography scan (8.0% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.42). Those patients who had ultrasound scan first had a shorter triage-to-incision time than those who had computed tomography scan first (9.2 (IQR: 5.9, 14.0) vs. 10.2 (IQR: 7.3, 14.3) hours, p = 0.03), whereas those who had ultrasound scan followed by computed tomography scan took longer than those who had ultrasound scan only (7.8 (IQR: 5.3, 11.6) vs. 15.1 (IQR: 10.6, 20.6), p < 0.001). Children < 12 years old receiving ultrasound scan first had lower perforation rate (p = 0.01) and shorter triage-to-incision time (p = 0.003). Children with suspected appendicitis receiving ultrasound scan as the initial diagnostic imaging modality do not have increased risk of perforation compared to those receiving computed tomography scan first. We recommend that children <12 years of age receive ultrasound scan first.

Neural networks for calibration tomography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Decker, Arthur

1993-01-01

Artificial neural networks are suitable for performing pattern-to-pattern calibrations. These calibrations are potentially useful for facilities operations in aeronautics, the control of optical alignment, and the like. Computed tomography is compared with neural net calibration tomography for estimating density from its x-ray transform. X-ray transforms are measured, for example, in diffuse-illumination, holographic interferometry of fluids. Computed tomography and neural net calibration tomography are shown to have comparable performance for a 10 degree viewing cone and 29 interferograms within that cone. The system of tomography discussed is proposed as a relevant test of neural networks and other parallel processors intended for using flow visualization data.

Use of cone beam computed tomography in implant dentistry: current concepts, indications and limitations for clinical practice and research.

PubMed

Bornstein, Michael M; Horner, Keith; Jacobs, Reinhilde

2017-02-01

Diagnostic radiology is an essential component of treatment planning in the field of implant dentistry. This narrative review will present current concepts for the use of cone beam computed tomography imaging, before and after implant placement, in daily clinical practice and research. Guidelines for the selection of three-dimensional imaging will be discussed, and limitations will be highlighted. Current concepts of radiation dose optimization, including novel imaging modalities using low-dose protocols, will be presented. For preoperative cross-sectional imaging, data are still not available which demonstrate that cone beam computed tomography results in fewer intraoperative complications such as nerve damage or bleeding incidents, or that implants inserted using preoperative cone beam computed tomography data sets for planning purposes will exhibit higher survival or success rates. The use of cone beam computed tomography following the insertion of dental implants should be restricted to specific postoperative complications, such as damage of neurovascular structures or postoperative infections in relation to the maxillary sinus. Regarding peri-implantitis, the diagnosis and severity of the disease should be evaluated primarily based on clinical parameters and on radiological findings based on periapical radiographs (two dimensional). The use of cone beam computed tomography scans in clinical research might not yield any evident beneficial effect for the patient included. As many of the cone beam computed tomography scans performed for research have no direct therapeutic consequence, dose optimization measures should be implemented by using appropriate exposure parameters and by reducing the field of view to the actual region of interest. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

How reliably can computed tomography predict thyroid invasion prior to laryngectomy?

PubMed

Harris, Andrew S; Passant, Carl D; Ingrams, Duncan R

2018-05-01

There is little evidence to support the removal of thyroid tissue during total laryngectomy. Although oncological control of the tumor is the priority, thyroidectomy can lead to hypothyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. This study aimed to test the usefulness of preoperative computed tomography in predicting histological invasion of the thyroid. Ambispective cohort study. All patients undergoing total laryngectomy for squamous cell carcinoma at one center from 2006 to 2016 were included. Data were recorded prospectively as part of the patients' standard care, but were collated retrospectively, giving this study an ambispective design. The histology report for thyroid invasion was taken as the gold standard. The computed tomography report was categorized by invasion of tumor into intralaryngeal, laryngeal cartilage involvement, and extralaryngeal tissues. Seventy-nine patients were included. Nine patients had thyroid involvement on histology, translating to an incidence of 11.29% in this population. The positive predictive value for cartilage involvement on computed tomography for thyroid invasion was 52.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 28.5%-76.1%) and the negative predictive value was 100% (95% CI: 92.7%-100%).The positive predictive value for extralaryngeal spread on computed tomography for thyroid involvement was 100% (95% CI: 62.9%-100%), and the negative predictive value was also 100% (95% CI: 93.5%-100%). This study has shown that preoperative computed tomography is an effective method of ruling out thyroid gland invasion. The absence of extralaryngeal spread on computed tomography has been shown to be the most useful finding, with a high negative predictive value and a narrow 95% CI. 4. Laryngoscope, 128:1099-1102, 2018. © 2017 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

Diverticular Disease of the Colon: News From Imaging.

PubMed

Flor, Nicola; Soldi, Simone; Zanchetta, Edoardo; Sbaraini, Sara; Pesapane, Filippo

2016-10-01

Different scenarios embrace computed tomography imaging and diverticula, including asymptomatic (diverticulosis) and symptomatic patients (acute diverticulitis, follow-up of acute diverticulitis, chronic diverticulitis). If the role of computed tomography is validated and widely supported by evidence in case of acute diverticulitis, this is not the case of patients in their follow-up for acute diverticulitis or with symptoms related to diverticula, but without acute inflammation. In these settings, computed tomography colonography is gaining consensus as the preferred radiologic test.

Plain X-ray, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings of telangiectatic osteosarcoma: a case report.

PubMed

Skiadas, Vasilios; Koutoulidis, Vasilios; Koureas, Andreas; Moulopoulos, Lia; Gouliamos, Athanasios

2009-09-16

An 18-year-old male patient presented with chronic nonspecific pain of three months located at his left proximal tibia. The patient was admitted to our department for plain X-ray, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging examination. Plain X-ray and computed tomography revealed a geographic lytic lesion at the medial aspect of the proximal tibia. Biopsy of the lesion showed telangiectatic osteosarcoma. Image findings of all modalities are presented.

Advances in equine computed tomography and use of contrast media.

PubMed

Puchalski, Sarah M

2012-12-01

Advances in equine computed tomography have been made as a result of improvements in software and hardware and an increasing body of knowledge. Contrast media can be administered intravascularly or intrathecally. Contrast media is useful to differentiate between tissues of similar density. Equine computed tomography can be used for many different clinical conditions, including lameness diagnosis, fracture identification and characterization, preoperative planning, and characterization of skull diseases. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[The radiologist physician in major trauma evaluation].

PubMed

Motta-Ramírez, Gaspar Alberto

2016-01-01

Trauma is the most common cause of death in young adults. A multidisciplinary trauma team consists of at least a surgical team, an anesthesiology team, radiologic team, and an emergency department team. Recognize the integration of multidisciplinary medical team in managing the trauma patient and which must include the radiologist physician responsible for the institutional approach to the systematization of the trauma patient regarding any radiological and imaging study with emphasis on the FAST (del inglés, Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma)/USTA, Whole body computed tomography. Ultrasound is a cross-sectional method available for use in patients with major trauma. Whole-body multidetector computed tomography became the imaging modality of choice in the late 1990s. In patients with major trauma, examination FAST often is the initial imaging examination, extended to extraabdominal regions. Patients who have multitrauma from blunt mechanisms often require multiple diagnostic examinations, including Computed Tomography imaging of the torso as well as abdominopelvic Computed Tomography angiography. Multiphasic Whole-body trauma imaging is feasible, helps detect clinically relevant vascular injuries, and results in diagnostic image quality in the majority of patients. Computed Tomography has gained importance in the early diagnostic phase of trauma care in the emergency room. With a single continuous acquisition, whole-body computed tomography angiography is able to demonstrate all potentially injured organs, as well as vascular and bone structures, from the circle of Willis to the symphysis pubis.

Development of computational small animal models and their applications in preclinical imaging and therapy research.

PubMed

Xie, Tianwu; Zaidi, Habib

2016-01-01

The development of multimodality preclinical imaging techniques and the rapid growth of realistic computer simulation tools have promoted the construction and application of computational laboratory animal models in preclinical research. Since the early 1990s, over 120 realistic computational animal models have been reported in the literature and used as surrogates to characterize the anatomy of actual animals for the simulation of preclinical studies involving the use of bioluminescence tomography, fluorescence molecular tomography, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, microcomputed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and optical imaging. Other applications include electromagnetic field simulation, ionizing and nonionizing radiation dosimetry, and the development and evaluation of new methodologies for multimodality image coregistration, segmentation, and reconstruction of small animal images. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the history and fundamental technologies used for the development of computational small animal models with a particular focus on their application in preclinical imaging as well as nonionizing and ionizing radiation dosimetry calculations. An overview of the overall process involved in the design of these models, including the fundamental elements used for the construction of different types of computational models, the identification of original anatomical data, the simulation tools used for solving various computational problems, and the applications of computational animal models in preclinical research. The authors also analyze the characteristics of categories of computational models (stylized, voxel-based, and boundary representation) and discuss the technical challenges faced at the present time as well as research needs in the future.

High-resolution PET [Positron Emission Tomography] for Medical Science Studies

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Budinger, T. F.; Derenzo, S. E.; Huesman, R. H.; Jagust, W. J.; Valk, P. E.

1989-09-01

One of the unexpected fruits of basic physics research and the computer revolution is the noninvasive imaging power available to today's physician. Technologies that were strictly the province of research scientists only a decade or two ago now serve as the foundations for such standard diagnostic tools as x-ray computer tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), ultrasound, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and positron emission tomography (PET). Furthermore, prompted by the needs of both the practicing physician and the clinical researcher, efforts to improve these technologies continue. This booklet endeavors to describe the advantages of achieving high resolution in PET imaging.

Comparison of digital intraoral scanners by single-image capture system and full-color movie system.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Meguru; Kataoka, Yu; Manabe, Atsufumi

2017-01-01

The use of dental computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) restoration is rapidly increasing. This study was performed to evaluate the marginal and internal cement thickness and the adhesive gap of internal cavities comprising CAD/CAM materials using two digital impression acquisition methods and micro-computed tomography. Images obtained by a single-image acquisition system (Bluecam Ver. 4.0) and a full-color video acquisition system (Omnicam Ver. 4.2) were divided into the BL and OM groups, respectively. Silicone impressions were prepared from an ISO-standard metal mold, and CEREC Stone BC and New Fuji Rock IMP were used to create working models (n=20) in the BL and OM groups (n=10 per group), respectively. Individual inlays were designed in a conventional manner using designated software, and all restorations were prepared using CEREC inLab MC XL. These were assembled with the corresponding working models used for measurement, and the level of fit was examined by three-dimensional analysis based on micro-computed tomography. Significant differences in the marginal and internal cement thickness and adhesive gap spacing were found between the OM and BL groups. The full-color movie capture system appears to be a more optimal restoration system than the single-image capture system.

Use of Noncontrast Computed Tomography and Computed Tomographic Perfusion in Predicting Intracerebral Hemorrhage After Intravenous Alteplase Therapy.

PubMed

Batchelor, Connor; Pordeli, Pooneh; d'Esterre, Christopher D; Najm, Mohamed; Al-Ajlan, Fahad S; Boesen, Mari E; McDougall, Connor; Hur, Lisa; Fainardi, Enrico; Shankar, Jai Jai Shiva; Rubiera, Marta; Khaw, Alexander V; Hill, Michael D; Demchuk, Andrew M; Sajobi, Tolulope T; Goyal, Mayank; Lee, Ting-Yim; Aviv, Richard I; Menon, Bijoy K

2017-06-01

Intracerebral hemorrhage is a feared complication of intravenous alteplase therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke. We explore the use of multimodal computed tomography in predicting this complication. All patients were administered intravenous alteplase with/without intra-arterial therapy. An age- and sex-matched case-control design with classic and conditional logistic regression techniques was chosen for analyses. Outcome was parenchymal hemorrhage on 24- to 48-hour imaging. Exposure variables were imaging (noncontrast computed tomography hypoattenuation degree, relative volume of very low cerebral blood volume, relative volume of cerebral blood flow ≤7 mL/min·per 100 g, relative volume of T max ≥16 s with all volumes standardized to z axis coverage, mean permeability surface area product values within T max ≥8 s volume, and mean permeability surface area product values within ipsilesional hemisphere) and clinical variables (NIHSS [National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale], onset to imaging time, baseline systolic blood pressure, blood glucose, serum creatinine, treatment type, and reperfusion status). One-hundred eighteen subjects (22 patients with parenchymal hemorrhage versus 96 without, median baseline NIHSS score of 15) were included in the final analysis. In multivariable regression, noncontrast computed tomography hypoattenuation grade ( P <0.006) and computerized tomography perfusion white matter relative volume of very low cerebral blood volume ( P =0.04) were the only significant variables associated with parenchymal hemorrhage on follow-up imaging (area under the curve, 0.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.63-0.83). Interrater reliability for noncontrast computed tomography hypoattenuation grade was moderate (κ=0.6). Baseline hypoattenuation on noncontrast computed tomography and very low cerebral blood volume on computerized tomography perfusion are associated with development of parenchymal hemorrhage in patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving intravenous alteplase. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Use of radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for evaluation of navicular syndrome in the horse.

PubMed

Widmer, W R; Buckwalter, K A; Fessler, J F; Hill, M A; VanSickle, D C; Ivancevich, S

2000-01-01

Radiographic evaluation of navicular syndrome is problematic because of its inconsistent correlation with clinical signs. Scintigraphy often yields false positive and false negative results and diagnostic ultrasound is of limited value. Therefore, we assessed the use of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in a horse with clinical and radiographic signs of navicular syndrome. Cadaver specimens were examined with spiral computed tomographic and high-field magnetic resonance scanners and images were correlated with pathologic findings. Radiographic changes consisted of bony remodeling, which included altered synovial fossae, increased medullary opacity, cyst formation and shape change. These osseous changes were more striking and more numerous on computed tomographic and magnetic resonance images. They were most clearly defined with computed tomography. Many osseous changes seen with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were not radiographically evident. Histologically confirmed soft tissue alterations of the deep digital flexor tendon, impar ligament and marrow were identified with magnetic resonance imaging, but not with conventional radiography. Because of their multiplanar capability and tomographic nature, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging surpass conventional radiography for navicular imaging, facilitating earlier, more accurate diagnosis. Current advances in imaging technology should make these imaging modalities available to equine practitioners in the future.

Comparison of validation methods for forming simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schug, Alexander; Kapphan, Gabriel; Bardl, Georg; Hinterhölzl, Roland; Drechsler, Klaus

2018-05-01

The forming simulation of fibre reinforced thermoplastics could reduce the development time and improve the forming results. But to take advantage of the full potential of the simulations it has to be ensured that the predictions for material behaviour are correct. For that reason, a thorough validation of the material model has to be conducted after characterising the material. Relevant aspects for the validation of the simulation are for example the outer contour, the occurrence of defects and the fibre paths. To measure these features various methods are available. Most relevant and also most difficult to measure are the emerging fibre orientations. For that reason, the focus of this study was on measuring this feature. The aim was to give an overview of the properties of different measuring systems and select the most promising systems for a comparison survey. Selected were an optical, an eddy current and a computer-assisted tomography system with the focus on measuring the fibre orientations. Different formed 3D parts made of unidirectional glass fibre and carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastics were measured. Advantages and disadvantages of the tested systems were revealed. Optical measurement systems are easy to use, but are limited to the surface plies. With an eddy current system also lower plies can be measured, but it is only suitable for carbon fibres. Using a computer-assisted tomography system all plies can be measured, but the system is limited to small parts and challenging to evaluate.

Quantitative Comparison of Virtual Monochromatic Images of Dual Energy Computed Tomography Systems: Beam Hardening Artifact Correction and Variance in Computed Tomography Numbers: A Phantom Study.

PubMed

Wu, Rongli; Watanabe, Yoshiyuki; Satoh, Kazuhiko; Liao, Yen-Peng; Takahashi, Hiroto; Tanaka, Hisashi; Tomiyama, Noriyuki

2018-05-21

The aim of this study was to quantitatively compare the reduction in beam hardening artifact (BHA) and variance in computed tomography (CT) numbers of virtual monochromatic energy (VME) images obtained with 3 dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) systems at a given radiation dose. Five different iodine concentrations were scanned using dual-energy and single-energy (120 kVp) modes. The BHA and CT number variance were evaluated. For higher iodine concentrations, 40 and 80 mgI/mL, BHA on VME imaging was significantly decreased when the energy was higher than 50 keV (P = 0.003) and 60 keV (P < 0.001) for GE, higher than 80 keV (P < 0.001) and 70 keV (P = 0.002) for Siemens, and higher than 40 keV (P < 0.001) and 60 keV (P < 0.001) for Toshiba, compared with single-energy CT imaging. Virtual monochromatic energy imaging can decrease BHA and improve CT number accuracy in different dual-energy computed tomography systems, depending on energy levels and iodine concentrations.

Virtopsy: postmortem imaging of laryngeal foreign bodies.

PubMed

Oesterhelweg, Lars; Bolliger, Stephan A; Thali, Michael J; Ross, Steffen

2009-05-01

Death from corpora aliena in the larynx is a well-known entity in forensic pathology. The correct diagnosis of this cause of death is difficult without an autopsy, and misdiagnoses by external examination alone are common. To determine the postmortem usefulness of modern imaging techniques in the diagnosis of foreign bodies in the larynx, multislice computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and postmortem full-body computed tomography-angiography were performed. Three decedents with a suspected foreign body in the larynx underwent the 3 different imaging techniques before medicolegal autopsy. Multislice computed tomography has a high diagnostic value in the noninvasive localization of a foreign body and abnormalities in the larynx. The differentiation between neoplasm or soft foreign bodies (eg, food) is possible, but difficult, by unenhanced multislice computed tomography. By magnetic resonance imaging, the discrimination of the soft tissue structures and soft foreign bodies is much easier. In addition to the postmortem multislice computed tomography, the combination with postmortem angiography will increase the diagnostic value. Postmortem, cross-sectional imaging methods are highly valuable procedures for the noninvasive detection of corpora aliena in the larynx.

Imaging Strategies for Tissue Engineering Applications

PubMed Central

Nam, Seung Yun; Ricles, Laura M.; Suggs, Laura J.

2015-01-01

Tissue engineering has evolved with multifaceted research being conducted using advanced technologies, and it is progressing toward clinical applications. As tissue engineering technology significantly advances, it proceeds toward increasing sophistication, including nanoscale strategies for material construction and synergetic methods for combining with cells, growth factors, or other macromolecules. Therefore, to assess advanced tissue-engineered constructs, tissue engineers need versatile imaging methods capable of monitoring not only morphological but also functional and molecular information. However, there is no single imaging modality that is suitable for all tissue-engineered constructs. Each imaging method has its own range of applications and provides information based on the specific properties of the imaging technique. Therefore, according to the requirements of the tissue engineering studies, the most appropriate tool should be selected among a variety of imaging modalities. The goal of this review article is to describe available biomedical imaging methods to assess tissue engineering applications and to provide tissue engineers with criteria and insights for determining the best imaging strategies. Commonly used biomedical imaging modalities, including X-ray and computed tomography, positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound imaging, optical imaging, and emerging techniques and multimodal imaging, will be discussed, focusing on the latest trends of their applications in recent tissue engineering studies. PMID:25012069

Micromechanical Characterization and Testing of Carbon Based Woven Thermal Protection Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agrawal, Parul; Pham, John T.; Arnold, James O.; Peterson, Keith; Venkatapathy, Ethiraj

2013-01-01

Woven thermal protection system (TPS) materials are one of the enabling technologies for mechanically deployable hypersonic decelerator systems. These materials can be simultaneously used for thermal protection and as structural load bearing members during the entry, descent and landing operations. In order to ensure successful thermal and structural performance during the atmospheric entry, it is important to characterize the properties of these materials, once they have been subjected to entry like conditions. The present paper focuses on mechanical characteristics of pre-and post arc-jet tested woven TPS samples at different scales. It also presents the observations from scanning electron microscope and computed tomography images, and explains the changes in microstructure after being subjected to combined thermal-mechanical loading environments.

Leg CT scan

MedlinePlus

CAT scan - leg; Computed axial tomography scan - leg; Computed tomography scan - leg; CT scan - leg ... CT scan makes detailed pictures of the body very quickly. The test may help look for: An abscess ...

Arm CT scan

MedlinePlus

CAT scan - arm; Computed axial tomography scan - arm; Computed tomography scan - arm; CT scan - arm ... Healing problems or scar tissue following surgery A CT scan may also be used to guide a surgeon ...

USE OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY FOR INVESTIGATION OF HEPATIC LIPIDOSIS IN CAPTIVE CHELONOIDIS CARBONARIA (SPIX, 1824).

PubMed

Marchiori, Adriano; da Silva, Ieverton Cleiton Correia; de Albuquerque Bonelli, Marília; de Albuquerque Zanotti, Luciana Carla Rameh; Siqueira, Daniel B; Zanotti, Alexandre Pinheiro; Costa, Fabiano Séllos

2015-06-01

Computed tomography is a sensitive and highly applicable technique for determining the degree of radiographic attenuation of the hepatic parenchyma. Radiodensity measurements of the liver can help in the diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis in humans and animals. The objective was to investigate the presence of hepatic lipidosis in captive red-footed tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonaria) using computed tomography. Computed tomography was performed in 10 male red-footed tortoises. Mean radiographic attenuation values for the hepatic parenchyma were 11.2±3.0 Hounsfield units (HU). Seven red-footed tortoises had values lower than 20 HU, which is compatible with C. carbonaria hepatic lipidosis. These results allowed an early diagnosis of the hepatic changes and suggested corrective measures regarding feeding and management protocols.

Multidetector Computed Tomography for Congenital Anomalies of the Aortic Arch: Vascular Rings.

PubMed

García-Guereta, Luis; García-Cerro, Estefanía; Bret-Zurita, Montserrat

2016-07-01

The development of multidetector computed tomography has triggered a revolution in the study of the aorta and other large vessels and has replaced angiography in the diagnosis of congenital anomalies of the aortic arch, particularly vascular rings. The major advantage of multidetector computed tomography is that it permits clear 3-dimensional assessment of not only vascular structures, but also airway and esophageal compression. The current update aims to summarize the embryonic development of the aortic arch and the developmental anomalies leading to vascular ring formation and to discuss the current diagnostic and therapeutic role of multidetector computed tomography in this field. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

[Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics as implant materials].

PubMed

Bader, R; Steinhauser, E; Rechl, H; Siebels, W; Mittelmeier, W; Gradinger, R

2003-01-01

Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics have been used clinically as an implant material for different applications for over 20 years.A review of technical basics of the composite materials (carbon fibers and matrix systems), fields of application,advantages (e.g., postoperative visualization without distortion in computed and magnetic resonance tomography), and disadvantages with use as an implant material is given. The question of the biocompatibility of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics is discussed on the basis of experimental and clinical studies. Selected implant systems made of carbon composite materials for treatments in orthopedic surgery such as joint replacement, tumor surgery, and spinal operations are presented and assessed. Present applications for carbon fiber reinforced plastics are seen in the field of spinal surgery, both as cages for interbody fusion and vertebral body replacement.

Review of progress in quantitative NDE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

s of 386 papers and plenary presentations are included. The plenary sessions are related to the national technology initiative. The other sessions covered the following NDE topics: corrosion, electromagnetic arrays, elastic wave scattering and backscattering/noise, civil structures, material properties, holography, shearography, UT wave propagation, eddy currents, coatings, signal processing, radiography, computed tomography, EM imaging, adhesive bonds, NMR, laser ultrasonics, composites, thermal techniques, magnetic measurements, nonlinear acoustics, interface modeling and characterization, UT transducers, new techniques, joined materials, probes and systems, fatigue cracks and fracture, imaging and sizing, NDE in engineering and process control, acoustics of cracks, and sensors. An author index is included.

Comprehensive Digital Imaging Network Project At Georgetown University Hospital

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mun, Seong K.; Stauffer, Douglas; Zeman, Robert; Benson, Harold; Wang, Paul; Allman, Robert

1987-10-01

The radiology practice is going through rapid changes due to the introduction of state-of-the-art computed based technologies. For the last twenty years we have witnessed the introduction of many new medical diagnostic imaging systems such as x-ray computed tomo-graphy, digital subtraction angiography (DSA), computerized nuclear medicine, single pho-ton emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET) and more re-cently, computerized digital radiography and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other than the imaging systems, there has been a steady introduction of computed based information systems for radiology departments and hospitals.

Utility of three-dimensional and multiplanar reformatted computed tomography for evaluation of pediatric congenital spine abnormalities.

PubMed

Newton, Peter O; Hahn, Gregory W; Fricka, Kevin B; Wenger, Dennis R

2002-04-15

A retrospective radiographic review of 31 patients with congenital spine abnormalities who underwent conventional radiography and advanced imaging studies was conducted. To analyze the utility of three-dimensional computed tomography with multiplanar reformatted images for congenital spine anomalies, as compared with plain radiographs and axial two-dimensional computed tomography imaging. Conventional radiographic imaging for congenital spine disorders often are difficult to interpret because of the patient's small size, the complexity of the disorder, a deformity not in the plane of the radiographs, superimposed structures, and difficulty in forming a mental three-dimensional image. Multiplanar reformatted and three-dimensional computed tomographic imaging offers many potential advantages for defining congenital spine anomalies including visualization of the deformity in any plane, from any angle, with the overlying structures subtracted. The imaging studies of patients who had undergone a three-dimensional computed tomography for congenital deformities of the spine between 1992 and 1998 were reviewed (31 cases). All plain radiographs and axial two-dimensional computed tomography images performed before the three-dimensional computed tomography were reviewed and the findings documented. This was repeated for the three-dimensional reconstructions and, when available, the multiplanar reformatted images (15 cases). In each case, the utility of the advanced imaging was graded as one of the following: Grade A (substantial new information obtained), Grade B (confirmatory with improved visualization and understanding of the deformity), and Grade C (no added useful information obtained). In 17 of 31 cases, the multiplanar reformatted and three-dimensional images allowed identification of unrecognized malformations. In nine additional cases, the advanced imaging was helpful in better visualizing and understanding previously identified deformities. In five cases, no new information was gained. The standard and curved multiplanar reformatted images were best for defining the occiput-C1-C2 anatomy and the extent of segmentation defects. The curved multiplanar reformatted images were especially helpful in keeping the spine from "coming in" and "going out" of the plane of the image when there was significant spine deformity in the sagittal or coronal plane. The three-dimensional reconstructions proved valuable in defining failures of formation. Advanced computed tomography imaging (three-dimensional computed tomography and curved/standard multiplanar reformatted images) allows better definition of congenital spine anomalies. More than 50% of the cases showed additional abnormalities not appreciated on plain radiographs or axial two-dimensional computed tomography images. Curved multiplanar reformatted images allowed imaging in the coronal and sagittal planes of the entire deformity.

Heart CT scan

MedlinePlus

... Computed tomography scan - heart; Calcium scoring; Multi-detector CT scan - heart; Electron beam computed tomography - heart; Agatston ... table that slides into the center of the CT scanner. You will lie on your back with ...

Evaluation of 3D airway imaging of obstructive sleep apnea with cone-beam computed tomography.

PubMed

Ogawa, Takumi; Enciso, Reyes; Memon, Ahmed; Mah, James K; Clark, Glenn T

2005-01-01

This study evaluates the use of cone-beam Computer Tomography (CT) for imaging the upper airway structure of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) patients. The total airway volume and the anteroposterior dimension of oropharyngeal airway showed significant group differences between OSA and gender-matched controls, so if we increase sample size these measurements may distinguish the two groups. We demonstrate the utility of diagnosis of anatomy with the 3D airway imaging with cone-beam Computed Tomography.

Cone beam computed tomography in Endodontics - a review.

PubMed

Patel, S; Durack, C; Abella, F; Shemesh, H; Roig, M; Lemberg, K

2015-01-01

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) produces undistorted three-dimensional information of the maxillofacial skeleton, including the teeth and their surrounding tissues with a lower effective radiation dose than computed tomography. The aim of this paper is to: (i) review the current literature on the applications and limitations of CBCT; (ii) make recommendations for the use of CBCT in Endodontics; (iii) highlight areas of further research of CBCT in Endodontics. © 2014 International Endodontic Journal. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

White Paper of the Society of Computed Body Tomography and Magnetic Resonance on Dual-Energy CT, Part 1: Technology and Terminology.

PubMed

Siegel, Marilyn J; Kaza, Ravi K; Bolus, David N; Boll, Daniel T; Rofsky, Neil M; De Cecco, Carlo N; Foley, W Dennis; Morgan, Desiree E; Schoepf, U Joseph; Sahani, Dushyant V; Shuman, William P; Vrtiska, Terri J; Yeh, Benjamin M; Berland, Lincoln L

This is the first of a series of 4 white papers that represent Expert Consensus Documents developed by the Society of Computed Body Tomography and Magnetic Resonance through its task force on dual-energy computed tomography (DECT). This article, part 1, describes the fundamentals of the physical basis for DECT and the technology of DECT and proposes uniform nomenclature to account for differences in proprietary terms among manufacturers.

[Cardiac computed tomography: new applications of an evolving technique].

PubMed

Martín, María; Corros, Cecilia; Calvo, Juan; Mesa, Alicia; García-Campos, Ana; Rodríguez, María Luisa; Barreiro, Manuel; Rozado, José; Colunga, Santiago; de la Hera, Jesús M; Morís, César; Luyando, Luis H

2015-01-01

During the last years we have witnessed an increasing development of imaging techniques applied in Cardiology. Among them, cardiac computed tomography is an emerging and evolving technique. With the current possibility of very low radiation studies, the applications have expanded and go further coronariography In the present article we review the technical developments of cardiac computed tomography and its new applications. Copyright © 2014 Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez. Published by Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.

Plain X-ray, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings of telangiectatic osteosarcoma: a case report

PubMed Central

Koutoulidis, Vasilios; Koureas, Andreas; Moulopoulos, Lia; Gouliamos, Athanasios

2009-01-01

An 18-year-old male patient presented with chronic nonspecific pain of three months located at his left proximal tibia. The patient was admitted to our department for plain X-ray, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging examination. Plain X-ray and computed tomography revealed a geographic lytic lesion at the medial aspect of the proximal tibia. Biopsy of the lesion showed telangiectatic osteosarcoma. Image findings of all modalities are presented. PMID:19918488

Temporal sparsity exploiting nonlocal regularization for 4D computed tomography reconstruction

PubMed Central

Kazantsev, Daniil; Guo, Enyu; Kaestner, Anders; Lionheart, William R. B.; Bent, Julian; Withers, Philip J.; Lee, Peter D.

2016-01-01

X-ray imaging applications in medical and material sciences are frequently limited by the number of tomographic projections collected. The inversion of the limited projection data is an ill-posed problem and needs regularization. Traditional spatial regularization is not well adapted to the dynamic nature of time-lapse tomography since it discards the redundancy of the temporal information. In this paper, we propose a novel iterative reconstruction algorithm with a nonlocal regularization term to account for time-evolving datasets. The aim of the proposed nonlocal penalty is to collect the maximum relevant information in the spatial and temporal domains. With the proposed sparsity seeking approach in the temporal space, the computational complexity of the classical nonlocal regularizer is substantially reduced (at least by one order of magnitude). The presented reconstruction method can be directly applied to various big data 4D (x, y, z+time) tomographic experiments in many fields. We apply the proposed technique to modelled data and to real dynamic X-ray microtomography (XMT) data of high resolution. Compared to the classical spatio-temporal nonlocal regularization approach, the proposed method delivers reconstructed images of improved resolution and higher contrast while remaining significantly less computationally demanding. PMID:27002902

Combined synchrotron X-ray tomography and X-ray powder diffraction using a fluorescing metal foil.

PubMed

Kappen, P; Arhatari, B D; Luu, M B; Balaur, E; Caradoc-Davies, T

2013-06-01

This study realizes the concept of simultaneous micro-X-ray computed tomography and X-ray powder diffraction using a synchrotron beamline. A thin zinc metal foil was placed in the primary, monochromatic synchrotron beam to generate a divergent wave to propagate through the samples of interest onto a CCD detector for tomographic imaging, thus removing the need for large beam illumination and high spatial resolution detection. Both low density materials (kapton tubing and a piece of plant) and higher density materials (Egyptian faience) were investigated, and elemental contrast was explored for the example of Cu and Ni meshes. The viability of parallel powder diffraction using the direct beam transmitted through the foil was demonstrated. The outcomes of this study enable further development of the technique towards in situ tomography∕diffraction studies combining micrometer and crystallographic length scales, and towards elemental contrast imaging and reconstruction methods using well defined fluorescence outputs from combinations of known fluorescence targets (elements).

Quantification of eggshell microstructure using X-ray micro computed tomography

PubMed Central

Riley, A.; Sturrock, C. J.; Mooney, S. J.

2014-01-01

1. X-ray microcomputed tomography can be used to produce rapid, fully analysable, three-dimensional images of biological and other materials without the need for complex or tedious sample preparation and sectioning. We describe the use of this technique to visualise and analyse the microstructure of fragments of shell taken from three regions of chicken eggs (sharp pole, blunt pole and equatorial region). 2. Two- and three-dimensional images and data were obtained at a resolution of 1.5 microns. The images were analysed to provide measurements of shell thickness, the spacial density of mammillary bodies, the frequency, shape, volume and effective diameter of individual pore spaces, and the intrinsic sponginess (proportion of non-X-ray dense material formed by vesicles) of the shell matrix. Measurements of these parameters were comparable with those derived by traditional methods and reported in the literature. 3. The advantages of using this technology for the quantification of eggshell microstructural parameters and its potential application for commercial, research and other purposes are discussed. PMID:24875292

Accuracy and Precision of Radioactivity Quantification in Nuclear Medicine Images

PubMed Central

Frey, Eric C.; Humm, John L.; Ljungberg, Michael

2012-01-01

The ability to reliably quantify activity in nuclear medicine has a number of increasingly important applications. Dosimetry for targeted therapy treatment planning or for approval of new imaging agents requires accurate estimation of the activity in organs, tumors, or voxels at several imaging time points. Another important application is the use of quantitative metrics derived from images, such as the standard uptake value commonly used in positron emission tomography (PET), to diagnose and follow treatment of tumors. These measures require quantification of organ or tumor activities in nuclear medicine images. However, there are a number of physical, patient, and technical factors that limit the quantitative reliability of nuclear medicine images. There have been a large number of improvements in instrumentation, including the development of hybrid single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography and PET/computed tomography systems, and reconstruction methods, including the use of statistical iterative reconstruction methods, which have substantially improved the ability to obtain reliable quantitative information from planar, single-photon emission computed tomography, and PET images. PMID:22475429

Meaning of Interior Tomography

PubMed Central

Wang, Ge; Yu, Hengyong

2013-01-01

The classic imaging geometry for computed tomography is for collection of un-truncated projections and reconstruction of a global image, with the Fourier transform as the theoretical foundation that is intrinsically non-local. Recently, interior tomography research has led to theoretically exact relationships between localities in the projection and image spaces and practically promising reconstruction algorithms. Initially, interior tomography was developed for x-ray computed tomography. Then, it has been elevated as a general imaging principle. Finally, a novel framework known as “omni-tomography” is being developed for grand fusion of multiple imaging modalities, allowing tomographic synchrony of diversified features. PMID:23912256

Correlation between Preoperative High Resolution Computed Tomography (CT) Findings with Surgical Findings in Chronic Otitis Media (COM) Squamosal Type.

PubMed

Karki, S; Pokharel, M; Suwal, S; Poudel, R

Background The exact role of High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) temporal bone in preoperative assessment of Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease still remains controversial. Objective To evaluate the role of high resolution computed tomography temporal bone in Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease and to compare preoperative computed tomographic findings with intra-operative findings. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted among 65 patients with chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease in Department of Radiodiagnosis, Kathmandu University Dhulikhel Hospital between January 2015 to July 2016. The operative findings were compared with results of imaging. The parameters of comparison were erosion of ossicles, scutum, facial canal, lateral semicircular canal, sigmoid and tegmen plate along with extension of disease to sinus tympani and facial recess. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive values were calculated. Result High resolution computed tomography temporal bone offered sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of 100% for visualization of sigmoid and tegmen plate erosion. The performance of HRCT in detecting malleus (Se=100%, Sp=95.23%), incus (Se=100%,Sp=80.48%) and stapes (Se=96.55%, Sp=71.42%) erosion was excellent. It offered precise information about facial canal erosion (Se=100%, Sp=75%), scutum erosion (Se=100%, Sp=96.87%) and extension of disease to facial recess and sinus tympani (Se=83.33%,Sp=100%). high resolution computed tomography showed specificity of 100% for lateral semicircular canal erosion (Sp=100%) but with low sensitivity (Se=53.84%). Conclusion The findings of high resolution computed tomography and intra-operative findings were well comparable except for lateral semicircular canal erosion. high resolution computed tomography temporal bone acts as a road map for surgeon to identify the extent of disease, plan for appropriate procedure that is required and prepare for potential complications that can be encountered during surgery.

Trails on 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Leading to Diagnosis of Testicular Adrenal Rest Tumor.

PubMed

Kashyap, Raghava

2018-01-01

Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs) are secondary to hypertrophy of adrenal rest cells in the rete testis in settings of hypersecretion of androgens. We present a case of congenital adrenal hyperplasia with TART with clues to the diagnosis on 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography ( 18 F-FDG PET/CT). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case on the role of 18 F-FDG PET/CT in TART.

Pleuroperitoneal Mesothelioma: A Rare Entity on 18F-FDG PET/CT

PubMed Central

Sahoo, Manas Kumar; Mukherjee, Anirban; Girish; Parida, Kumar; Agarwal, Krishan Kant; Bal, Chandrasekhar; Tripathi, Madhavi; Das, Chandan Jyoti; Shamim, Shamim Ahmed

2017-01-01

Pleuroperitoneal mesothelioma is an extremely rare entity. Only few cases are reported worldwide. We hereby represent a case of pleural mesothelioma referred for F-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for response evaluation. Diffuse F-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose avid peritoneal and omental thickening noted which subsequently turned out to be mesothelial involvement on peritoneal biopsy. This case demonstrates the role of F-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in detecting other sites of involvement in case of malignant mesothelioma. PMID:28242997

Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography in Disseminated Cryptococcosis.

PubMed

Tripathy, Sarthak; Parida, Girish Kumar; Roy, Shambo Guha; Singhal, Abhinav; Mallick, Saumya Ranjan; Tripathi, Madhavi; Shamim, Shamim Ahmed

2017-01-01

Disseminated cryptococcosis without pulmonary involvement is a very rare phenomenon. Patterns of organ involvement in cryptococcosis resemble various other infective conditions as well as malignant conditions on fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography. We present a case of a 43-year-old male patient who had disseminated cryptococcosis. The rarity of the case being noninvolvement of lungs and meninges and resembling more like lymphoma due to the diffuse involvement of the lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm.

CT Perfusion of the Head

MedlinePlus

... News Physician Resources Professions Site Index A-Z CT Perfusion of the Head Computed tomography (CT) perfusion ... of CT Perfusion of the Head? What is CT Perfusion of the Head? Computed tomography (CT) perfusion ...

Quantification of pericardial effusions by echocardiography and computed tomography.

PubMed

Leibowitz, David; Perlman, Gidon; Planer, David; Gilon, Dan; Berman, Philip; Bogot, Naama

2011-01-15

Echocardiography is a well-accepted tool for the diagnosis and quantification of pericardial effusion (PEff). Given the increasing use of computed tomographic (CT) scanning, more PEffs are being initially diagnosed by computed tomography. No study has compared quantification of PEff by computed tomography and echocardiography. The objective of this study was to assess the accuracy of quantification of PEff by 2-dimensional echocardiography and computed tomography compared to the amount of pericardial fluid drained at pericardiocentesis. We retrospectively reviewed an institutional database to identify patients who underwent chest computed tomography and echocardiography before percutaneous pericardiocentesis with documentation of the amount of fluid withdrawn. Digital 2-dimensional echocardiographic and CT images were retrieved and quantification of PEff volume was performed by applying the formula for the volume of a prolate ellipse, π × 4/3 × maximal long-axis dimension/2 × maximal transverse dimension/2 × maximal anteroposterior dimension/2, to the pericardial sac and to the heart. Nineteen patients meeting study qualifications were entered into the study. The amount of PEff drained was 200 to 1,700 ml (mean 674 ± 340). Echocardiographically calculated pericardial effusion volume correlated relatively well with PEff volume (r = 0.73, p <0.001, mean difference -41 ± 225 ml). There was only moderate correlation between CT volume quantification and actual volume drained (r = 0.4, p = 0.004, mean difference 158 ± 379 ml). In conclusion, echocardiography appears a more accurate imaging technique than computed tomography in quantitative assessment of nonloculated PEffs and should continue to be the primary imaging in these patients. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of computational small animal models and their applications in preclinical imaging and therapy research

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xie, Tianwu; Zaidi, Habib, E-mail: habib.zaidi@hcuge.ch; Geneva Neuroscience Center, Geneva University, Geneva CH-1205

The development of multimodality preclinical imaging techniques and the rapid growth of realistic computer simulation tools have promoted the construction and application of computational laboratory animal models in preclinical research. Since the early 1990s, over 120 realistic computational animal models have been reported in the literature and used as surrogates to characterize the anatomy of actual animals for the simulation of preclinical studies involving the use of bioluminescence tomography, fluorescence molecular tomography, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, microcomputed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and optical imaging. Other applications include electromagnetic field simulation, ionizing and nonionizing radiation dosimetry, and themore » development and evaluation of new methodologies for multimodality image coregistration, segmentation, and reconstruction of small animal images. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the history and fundamental technologies used for the development of computational small animal models with a particular focus on their application in preclinical imaging as well as nonionizing and ionizing radiation dosimetry calculations. An overview of the overall process involved in the design of these models, including the fundamental elements used for the construction of different types of computational models, the identification of original anatomical data, the simulation tools used for solving various computational problems, and the applications of computational animal models in preclinical research. The authors also analyze the characteristics of categories of computational models (stylized, voxel-based, and boundary representation) and discuss the technical challenges faced at the present time as well as research needs in the future.« less

[Computed tomography semiotics of osteonecrosis and sequestration in chronic hematogenic osteomyelitis].

PubMed

D'iachkova, G V; Mitina, Iu L

2007-01-01

Based on the data of computed tomography, radiography and densitometry in 39 patients the authors describe in detail the signs of osteonecrosis and sequestration of different localization and extension.

Pelvic CT scan

MedlinePlus

CAT scan - pelvis; Computed axial tomography scan - pelvis; Computed tomography scan - pelvis; CT scan - pelvis ... Risks of CT scans include: Being exposed to radiation Allergic reaction to contrast dye CT scans do expose you to more radiation ...

Lumbar spine CT scan

MedlinePlus

CAT scan - lumbar spine; Computed axial tomography scan - lumbar spine; Computed tomography scan - lumbar spine; CT - lower back ... CT scans rapidly makes detailed pictures of the lower back. The test may be used to look for: ...

Shoulder CT scan

MedlinePlus

CAT scan - shoulder; Computed axial tomography scan - shoulder; Computed tomography scan - shoulder; CT scan - shoulder ... Risks of CT scans include: Being exposed to radiation Allergic reaction to contrast dye Birth defect if done during pregnancy CT scans ...

SPECT/CT in imaging foot and ankle pathology-the demise of other coregistration techniques.

PubMed

Mohan, Hosahalli K; Gnanasegaran, Gopinath; Vijayanathan, Sanjay; Fogelman, Ignac

2010-01-01

Disorders of the ankle and foot are common and given the complex anatomy and function of the foot, they present a significant clinical challenge. Imaging plays a crucial role in the management of these patients, with multiple imaging options available to the clinician. The American College of radiology has set the appropriateness criteria for the use of the available investigating modalities in the management of foot and ankle pathologies. These are broadly classified into anatomical and functional imaging modalities. Recently, single-photon emission computed tomography and/or computed tomography scanners, which can elegantly combine functional and anatomical images have been introduced, promising an exciting and important development. This review describes our clinical experience with single-photon emission computed tomography and/or computed tomography and discusses potential applications of these techniques.

Comparison of radiological and morphologic assessments of myocardial bridges.

PubMed

Ercakmak, Burcu; Bulut, Elif; Hayran, Mutlu; Kaymaz, Figen; Bilgin, Selma; Hazirolan, Tuncay; Bayramoglu, Alp; Erbil, Mine

2015-09-01

In this study we aimed to compare the findings of coronary dual-source computed tomography angiography of myocardial bridges with cadaveric dissections. Forty-one isolated, non-damaged fresh sheep hearts were used in this study. Myocardial bridges of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery were demonstrated and analyzed by a coronary dual-source computed tomography angiography. Dissections along the left anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery were performed by using Zeiss OPMI pico microscope and the length of the bridges were measured. The depths of the myocardial bridges were measured from the stained sections by using the light microscope (Leica DM 6000B). MBs were found in all 41 hearts (100%) during dissections. Dual-source computed tomography angiography successfully detected 87.8% (36 of the 41 hearts) of the myocardial bridges measured on left anterior interventricular branch of left coronary artery. The lengths of the myocardial bridges were found 5-40 and 8-50 mm with dissection and dual-source computed tomography angiography, respectively. And the depths were found 0.7-4.5 mm by dual-source computed tomography angiography and 0.745-4.632 mm morphologically. Comparison of the mean values of the lengths showed statistically significantly higher values (22.0 ± 8.5, 17.7 ± 7.7 mm, p = 0.003) for the dissections. Radiological assessment also effectively discriminated complete bridges from incomplete ones. Our study showed that coronary computed tomography angiography is reliable in evaluating the presence and depth of myocardial bridges.

Preliminary frequency-domain analysis for the reconstructed spatial resolution of muon tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, B.; Zhao, Z.; Wang, X.; Wang, Y.; Wu, D.; Zeng, Z.; Zeng, M.; Yi, H.; Luo, Z.; Yue, X.; Cheng, J.

2014-11-01

Muon tomography is an advanced technology to non-destructively detect high atomic number materials. It exploits the multiple Coulomb scattering information of muon to reconstruct the scattering density image of the traversed object. Because of the statistics of muon scattering, the measurement error of system and the data incompleteness, the reconstruction is always accompanied with a certain level of interference, which will influence the reconstructed spatial resolution. While statistical noises can be reduced by extending the measuring time, system parameters determine the ultimate spatial resolution that one system can reach. In this paper, an effective frequency-domain model is proposed to analyze the reconstructed spatial resolution of muon tomography. The proposed method modifies the resolution analysis in conventional computed tomography (CT) to fit the different imaging mechanism in muon scattering tomography. The measured scattering information is described in frequency domain, then a relationship between the measurements and the original image is proposed in Fourier domain, which is named as "Muon Central Slice Theorem". Furthermore, a preliminary analytical expression of the ultimate reconstructed spatial is derived, and the simulations are performed for validation. While the method is able to predict the ultimate spatial resolution of a given system, it can also be utilized for the optimization of system design and construction.

Material characterization using ultrasound tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falardeau, Timothe; Belanger, Pierre

2018-04-01

Characterization of material properties can be performed using a wide array of methods e.g. X-ray diffraction or tensile testing. Each method leads to a limited set of material properties. This paper is interested in using ultrasound tomography to map speed of sound inside a material sample. The velocity inside the sample is directly related to its elastic properties. Recent develop-ments in ultrasound diffraction tomography have enabled velocity mapping of high velocity contrast objects using a combination of bent-ray time-of-flight tomography and diffraction tomography. In this study, ultrasound diffraction tomography was investigated using simulations in human bone phantoms. A finite element model was developed to assess the influence of the frequency, the number of transduction positions and the distance from the sample as well as to adapt the imaging algorithm. The average velocity in both regions of the bone phantoms were within 5% of the true value.

X-ray Computed Tomography Assessment of Air Void Distribution in Concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Haizhu

Air void size and spatial distribution have long been regarded as critical parameters in the frost resistance of concrete. In cement-based materials, entrained air void systems play an important role in performance as related to durability, permeability, and heat transfer. Many efforts have been made to measure air void parameters in a more efficient and reliable manner in the past several decades. Standardized measurement techniques based on optical microscopy and stereology on flat cut and polished surfaces are widely used in research as well as in quality assurance and quality control applications. Other more automated methods using image processing have also been utilized, but still starting from flat cut and polished surfaces. The emergence of X-ray computed tomography (CT) techniques provides the capability of capturing the inner microstructure of materials at the micrometer and nanometer scale. X-ray CT's less demanding sample preparation and capability to measure 3D distributions of air voids directly provide ample prospects for its wider use in air void characterization in cement-based materials. However, due to the huge number of air voids that can exist within a limited volume, errors can easily arise in the absence of a formalized data processing procedure. In this study, air void parameters in selected types of cement-based materials (lightweight concrete, structural concrete elements, pavements, and laboratory mortars) have been measured using micro X-ray CT. The focus of this study is to propose a unified procedure for processing the data and to provide solutions to deal with common problems that arise when measuring air void parameters: primarily the reliable segmentation of objects of interest, uncertainty estimation of measured parameters, and the comparison of competing segmentation parameters.

Sinus CT scan

MedlinePlus

CAT scan - sinus; Computed axial tomography scan - sinus; Computed tomography scan - sinus; CT scan - sinus ... Risks for a CT scan includes: Being exposed to radiation Allergic reaction to contrast dye CT scans expose you to more radiation than regular ...

Brain PET scan

MedlinePlus

... tissues are working. Other imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI ) and computed tomography ( CT ) scans only reveal ... M, Hellwig S, Kloppel S, Weiller C. Functional neuroimaging: functional magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and single-photon emission computed ...

Optimization of Tube Current in Cone-beam Computed Tomography for the Detection of Vertical Root Fractures with Different Intracanal Materials.

PubMed

Gaêta-Araujo, Hugo; Silva de Souza, Gabriela Queiroz; Freitas, Deborah Queiroz; de Oliveira-Santos, Christiano

2017-10-01

There is no consensus about the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for detecting vertical root fractures (VRFs), nor is there certainty about the isolated effect of different tube current parameters on the diagnosis of VRF through CBCT scans. This study aimed to evaluate how tube current affects the detection of VRF on CBCT examinations in the absence of intracanal materials and in the presence of gutta-percha (GP) and metal (MP) or fiberglass (FP) intracanal posts. The sample consisted of 320 CBCT scans of tooth roots with and without VRF divided into 8 groups: no fracture/no intracanal material; no fracture + GP; no fracture + MP; no fracture + FP; fracture/no intracanal material; fracture + GP; fracture + MP; fracture + FP. The scans were acquired with an OP300 unit using 4 different milliamperes (4 mA, 8 mA, 10 mA, 13 mA). Five oral radiologists analyzed the images. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (Az), sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and interobserver agreement were calculated. Diagnostic performance for the different milliamperes tested was similar for teeth without root filling materials or with FP. Teeth with GP and MP showed the highest Az values for 8 mA and 10 mA, respectively. For teeth with MP, specificity was significantly higher when 10 mA was used. For teeth without root filling materials or with FP, the use of a reduced milliampere does not seem to influence the detection of VRF in a significant manner. For teeth with GP and MP, an increased milliampere may lead to increased diagnostic performance. Copyright © 2017 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Overview of C/C-SiC Composite Development for the Orion Launch Abort System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Lee R.; Valentine, Peter G.; Schofield, Elizabeth S.; Beshears, Ronald D.; Coston, James E.

2012-01-01

Past and present efforts by the authors to further understanding of the ceramic matrix composite (CMC) material used in the valve components of the Orion Launch Abort System (LAS) Attitude Control Motor (ACM) will be presented. The LAS is designed to quickly lift the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) away from its launch vehicle in emergency abort scenarios. The ACM is a solid rocket motor which utilizes eight throttleable nozzles to maintain proper orientation of the CEV during abort operations. Launch abort systems have not been available for use by NASA on manned launches since the last Apollo ]Saturn launch in 1975. The CMC material, carbon-carbon/silicon-carbide (C/C-SiC), is manufactured by Fiber Materials, Inc. and consists of a rigid 4-directional carbon-fiber tow weave reinforced with a mixed carbon plus SiC matrix. Several valve and full system (8-valve) static motor tests have been conducted by the motor vendor. The culmination of these tests was the successful flight test of the Orion LAS Pad Abort One (PA ]1) vehicle on May 6, 2010. Due to the fast pace of the LAS development program, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center assisted the LAS community by performing a series of material and component evaluations using fired hardware from valve and full ]system development motor tests, and from the PA-1 flight ACM motor. Information will be presented on the structure of the C/C-SiC material, as well as the efficacy of various non ]destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques, including but not limited to: radiography, computed tomography, nanofocus computed tomography, and X-ray transmission microscopy. Examinations of the microstructure of the material via scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy will also be discussed. The findings resulting from the subject effort are assisting the LAS Project in risk assessments and in possible modifications to the final ACM operational design.

Review: Polymeric-Based 3D Printing for Tissue Engineering.

PubMed

Wu, Geng-Hsi; Hsu, Shan-Hui

Three-dimensional (3D) printing, also referred to as additive manufacturing, is a technology that allows for customized fabrication through computer-aided design. 3D printing has many advantages in the fabrication of tissue engineering scaffolds, including fast fabrication, high precision, and customized production. Suitable scaffolds can be designed and custom-made based on medical images such as those obtained from computed tomography. Many 3D printing methods have been employed for tissue engineering. There are advantages and limitations for each method. Future areas of interest and progress are the development of new 3D printing platforms, scaffold design software, and materials for tissue engineering applications.

Three-dimensional monochromatic x-ray CT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Tsuneo; Kudo, Hiroyuki; Takeda, Tohoru; Itai, Yuji; Tokumori, Kenji; Toyofuku, Fukai; Hyodo, Kazuyuki; Ando, Masami; Nishimura, Ktsuyuki; Uyama, Chikao

1995-08-01

In this paper, we describe a 3D computed tomography (3D CT) using monochromatic x-rays generated by synchrotron radiation, which performs a direct reconstruction of 3D volume image of an object from its cone-beam projections. For the develpment of 3D CT, scanning orbit of x-ray source to obtain complete 3D information about an object and corresponding 3D image reconstruction algorithm are considered. Computer simulation studies demonstrate the validities of proposed scanning method and reconstruction algorithm. A prototype experimental system of 3D CT was constructed. Basic phantom examinations and specific material CT image by energy subtraction obtained in this experimental system are shown.

Cone beam computed tomography: basics and applications in dentistry.

PubMed

Venkatesh, Elluru; Elluru, Snehal Venkatesh

2017-01-01

The introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) devices, changed the way oral and maxillofacial radiology is practiced. CBCT was embraced into the dental settings very rapidly due to its compact size, low cost, low ionizing radiation exposure when compared to medical computed tomography. Alike medical CT, 3 dimensional evaluation of the maxillofacial region with minimal distortion is offered by the CBCT. This article provides an overview of basics of CBCT technology and reviews the specific application of CBCT technology to oral and maxillofacial region with few illustrations.

Microstructure of cotton fibrous assemblies based on computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jing, Hui; Yu, Weidong

2017-12-01

This paper describes for the first time the analysis of inner microstructure of cotton fibrous assemblies using computed tomography. Microstructure parameters such as packing density, fractal dimension as well as porosity including open porosity, closed porosity and total porosity are calculated based on 2D data from computed tomography. Values of packing density and fractal dimension are stable in random oriented fibrous assemblies, and there exists a satisfactory approximate linear relationship between them. Moreover, poles analysis indicates that porosity represents the tightness of fibrous assemblies and open poles are main existence.

Progress of projection computed tomography by upgrading of the beamline 37XU of SPring-8

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Terada, Yasuko, E-mail: yterada@spring8.or.jp; Suzuki, Yoshio; Uesugi, Kentaro

2016-01-28

Beamline 37XU at SPring-8 has been upgraded for nano-focusing applications. The length of the beamline has been extended to 80 m. By utilizing this length, the beamline has advantages for experiments such as X-ray focusing, X-ray microscopic imaging and X-ray computed tomography. Projection computed tomography measurements were carried out at experimental hutch 3 located 80 m from the light source. CT images of a microcapsule have been successfully obtained with a wide X-ray energy range.

The use of iohexol as oral contrast for computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis.

PubMed

Horton, Karen M; Fishman, Elliot K; Gayler, Bob

2008-01-01

Positive oral contrast agents (high-osmolar iodinated solutions [high-osmolar contrast medium] or barium sulfate suspensions) are used routinely for abdominal computed tomography. However, these agents are not ideal. Patients complain about the taste and, sometimes, refuse to drink the required quantity. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are frequent. In certain clinical indications, either barium suspensions or high-osmolar contrast mediums may be contraindicated. This technical note describes the potential advantages of using low-osmolar iodinated solutions as an oral contrast agent for computed tomography.

4D nano-tomography of electrochemical energy devices using lab-based X-ray imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Heenan, T. M. M.; Finegan, D. P.; Tjaden, B.

Electrochemical energy devices offer a variety of alternate means for low-carbon, multi-scale energy conversion and storage. Reactions in these devices are supported by electrodes with characteristically complex microstructures. To meet the increasing capacity and lifetime demands across a range of applications, it is essential to understand microstructural evolutions at a cell and electrode level which are thought to be critical aspects influencing material and device lifetime and performance. X-ray computed tomography (CT) has become a highly employed method for non-destructive characterisation of such microstructures with high spatial resolution. However, sub-micron resolutions present significant challenges for sample preparation and handling particularlymore » in 4D studies, (three spatial dimensions plus time). Here, microstructural information is collected from the same region of interest within two electrode materials: a solid oxide fuel cell and the positive electrode from a lithium-ion battery. Using a lab-based X-ray instrument, tomograms with sub-micron resolutions were obtained between thermal cycling. The intricate microstructural evolutions captured within these two materials provide model examples of 4D X-ray nano-CT capabilities in tracking challenging degradation mechanisms. This technique is valuable in the advancement of electrochemical research as well as broader applications for materials characterisation.« less

Contours identification of elements in a cone beam computed tomography for investigating maxillary cysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chioran, Doina; Nicoarǎ, Adrian; Roşu, Şerban; Cǎrligeriu, Virgil; Ianeş, Emilia

2013-10-01

Digital processing of two-dimensional cone beam computer tomography slicesstarts by identification of the contour of elements within. This paper deals with the collective work of specialists in medicine and applied mathematics in computer science on elaborating and implementation of algorithms in dental 2D imagery.

Neuroanatomy of cranial computed tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kretschmann, H.J.; Weinrich, W.

1985-01-01

Based on the fundamental structures visualized by means of computed tomography, the authors present the functional systems which are relevant in neurology by means of axial cross-sections. All drawings were prepared from original preparations by means of a new technique which is similar to the grey values of X-ray CT and nuclear magnetic resonance tomography. A detailed description is given of the topics of neurofunctional lesions.

Frozen Gaussian approximation for 3D seismic tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chai, Lihui; Tong, Ping; Yang, Xu

2018-05-01

Three-dimensional (3D) wave-equation-based seismic tomography is computationally challenging in large scales and high-frequency regime. In this paper, we apply the frozen Gaussian approximation (FGA) method to compute 3D sensitivity kernels and seismic tomography of high-frequency. Rather than standard ray theory used in seismic inversion (e.g. Kirchhoff migration and Gaussian beam migration), FGA is used to compute the 3D high-frequency sensitivity kernels for travel-time or full waveform inversions. Specifically, we reformulate the equations of the forward and adjoint wavefields for the purpose of convenience to apply FGA, and with this reformulation, one can efficiently compute the Green’s functions whose convolutions with source time function produce wavefields needed for the construction of 3D kernels. Moreover, a fast summation method is proposed based on local fast Fourier transform which greatly improves the speed of reconstruction as the last step of FGA algorithm. We apply FGA to both the travel-time adjoint tomography and full waveform inversion (FWI) on synthetic crosswell seismic data with dominant frequencies as high as those of real crosswell data, and confirm again that FWI requires a more sophisticated initial velocity model for the convergence than travel-time adjoint tomography. We also numerically test the accuracy of applying FGA to local earthquake tomography. This study paves the way to directly apply wave-equation-based seismic tomography methods into real data around their dominant frequencies.

Breast composition measurement with a cadmium-zinc-telluride based spectral computed tomography system

PubMed Central

Ding, Huanjun; Ducote, Justin L.; Molloi, Sabee

2012-01-01

Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of breast tissue composition in terms of water, lipid, and protein with a cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) based computed tomography (CT) system to help better characterize suspicious lesions. Methods: Simulations and experimental studies were performed using a spectral CT system equipped with a CZT-based photon-counting detector with energy resolution. Simulations of the figure-of-merit (FOM), the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the dual energy image with respect to the square root of mean glandular dose (MGD), were performed to find the optimal configuration of the experimental acquisition parameters. A calibration phantom 3.175 cm in diameter was constructed from polyoxymethylene plastic with cylindrical holes that were filled with water and oil. Similarly, sized samples of pure adipose and pure lean bovine tissues were used for the three-material decomposition. Tissue composition results computed from the images were compared to the chemical analysis data of the tissue samples. Results: The beam energy was selected to be 100 kVp with a splitting energy of 40 keV. The tissue samples were successfully decomposed into water, lipid, and protein contents. The RMS error of the volumetric percentage for the three-material decomposition, as compared to data from the chemical analysis, was estimated to be approximately 5.7%. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the CZT-based photon-counting detector may be employed in the CT system to quantify the water, lipid, and protein mass densities in tissue with a relatively good agreement. PMID:22380361

Pediatric minor head trauma: do cranial CT scans change the therapeutic approach?

PubMed

Andrade, Felipe P; Montoro, Roberto; Oliveira, Renan; Loures, Gabriela; Flessak, Luana; Gross, Roberta; Donnabella, Camille; Puchnick, Andrea; Suzuki, Lisa; Regacini, Rodrigo

2016-10-01

1) To verify clinical signs correlated with appropriate cranial computed tomography scan indications and changes in the therapeutic approach in pediatric minor head trauma scenarios. 2) To estimate the radiation exposure of computed tomography scans with low dose protocols in the context of trauma and the additional associated risk. Investigators reviewed the medical records of all children with minor head trauma, which was defined as a Glasgow coma scale ≥13 at the time of admission to the emergency room, who underwent computed tomography scans during the years of 2013 and 2014. A change in the therapeutic approach was defined as a neurosurgical intervention performed within 30 days, hospitalization, >12 hours of observation, or neuro-specialist evaluation. Of the 1006 children evaluated, 101 showed some abnormality on head computed tomography scans, including 49 who were hospitalized, 16 who remained under observation and 36 who were dismissed. No patient underwent neurosurgery. No statistically significant relationship was observed between patient age, time between trauma and admission, or signs/symptoms related to trauma and abnormal imaging results. A statistically significant relationship between abnormal image results and a fall higher than 1.0 meter was observed (p=0.044). The mean effective dose was 2.0 mSv (0.1 to 6.8 mSv), corresponding to an estimated additional cancer risk of 0.05%. A computed tomography scan after minor head injury in pediatric patients did not show clinically relevant abnormalities that could lead to neurosurgical indications. Patients who fell more than 1.0 m were more likely to have changes in imaging tests, although these changes did not require neurosurgical intervention; therefore, the use of computed tomography scans may be questioned in this group. The results support the trend of more careful indications for cranial computed tomography scans for children with minor head trauma.

Computed Tomography Perfusion, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Histopathological Findings After Laparoscopic Renal Cryoablation: An In Vivo Pig Model.

PubMed

Nielsen, Tommy Kjærgaard; Østraat, Øyvind; Graumann, Ole; Pedersen, Bodil Ginnerup; Andersen, Gratien; Høyer, Søren; Borre, Michael

2017-08-01

The present study investigates how computed tomography perfusion scans and magnetic resonance imaging correlates with the histopathological alterations in renal tissue after cryoablation. A total of 15 pigs were subjected to laparoscopic-assisted cryoablation on both kidneys. After intervention, each animal was randomized to a postoperative follow-up period of 1, 2, or 4 weeks, after which computed tomography perfusion and magnetic resonance imaging scans were performed. Immediately after imaging, open bilateral nephrectomy was performed allowing for histopathological examination of the cryolesions. On computed tomography perfusion and magnetic resonance imaging examinations, rim enhancement was observed in the transition zone of the cryolesion 1week after laparoscopic-assisted cryoablation. This rim enhancement was found to subside after 2 and 4 weeks of follow-up, which was consistent with the microscopic examinations revealing of fibrotic scar tissue formation in the peripheral zone of the cryolesion. On T2 magnetic resonance imaging sequences, a thin hypointense rim surrounded the cryolesion, separating it from the adjacent renal parenchyma. Microscopic examinations revealed hemorrhage and later hemosiderin located in the peripheral zone. No nodular or diffuse contrast enhancement was found in the central zone of the cryolesions at any follow-up stage on neither computed tomography perfusion nor magnetic resonance imaging. On microscopic examinations, the central zone was found to consist of coagulative necrosis 1 week after laparoscopic-assisted cryoablation, which was partially replaced by fibrotic scar tissue 4 weeks following laparoscopic-assisted cryoablation. Both computed tomography perfusion and magnetic resonance imaging found the renal collecting system to be involved at all 3 stages of follow-up, but on microscopic examination, the urothelium was found to be intact in all cases. In conclusion, cryoablation effectively destroyed renal parenchyma, leaving the urothelium intact. Both computed tomography perfusion and magnetic resonance imaging reflect the microscopic findings but with some differences, especially regarding the peripheral zone. Magnetic resonance imaging seems an attractive modality for early postoperative follow-up.

Development of a dual-energy computed tomography quality control program: Characterization of scanner response and definition of relevant parameters for a fast-kVp switching dual-energy computed tomography system.

PubMed

Nute, Jessica L; Jacobsen, Megan C; Stefan, Wolfgang; Wei, Wei; Cody, Dianna D

2018-04-01

A prototype QC phantom system and analysis process were developed to characterize the spectral capabilities of a fast kV-switching dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) scanner. This work addresses the current lack of quantitative oversight for this technology, with the goal of identifying relevant scan parameters and test metrics instrumental to the development of a dual-energy quality control (DEQC). A prototype elliptical phantom (effective diameter: 35 cm) was designed with multiple material inserts for DECT imaging. Inserts included tissue equivalent and material rods (including iodine and calcium at varying concentrations). The phantom was scanned on a fast kV-switching DECT system using 16 dual-energy acquisitions (CTDIvol range: 10.3-62 mGy) with varying pitch, rotation time, and tube current. The circular head phantom (22 cm diameter) was scanned using a similar protocol (12 acquisitions; CTDIvol range: 36.7-132.6 mGy). All acquisitions were reconstructed at 50, 70, 110, and 140 keV and using a water-iodine material basis pair. The images were evaluated for iodine quantification accuracy, stability of monoenergetic reconstruction CT number, noise, and positional constancy. Variance component analysis was used to identify technique parameters that drove deviations in test metrics. Variances were compared to thresholds derived from manufacturer tolerances to determine technique parameters that had a nominally significant effect on test metrics. Iodine quantification error was largely unaffected by any of the technique parameters investigated. Monoenergetic HU stability was found to be affected by mAs, with a threshold under which spectral separation was unsuccessful, diminishing the utility of DECT imaging. Noise was found to be affected by CTDIvol in the DEQC body phantom, and CTDIvol and mA in the DEQC head phantom. Positional constancy was found to be affected by mAs in the DEQC body phantom and mA in the DEQC head phantom. A streamlined scan protocol was developed to further investigate the effects of CTDIvol and rotation time while limiting data collection to the DEQC body phantom. Further data collection will be pursued to determine baseline values and statistically based failure thresholds for the validation of long-term DECT scanner performance. © 2018 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

[Gemstone computed tomography in the evaluation of material distribution in pulmonary parenchyma for pulmonary embolism].

PubMed

Zhang, Lan; Lü, Lei; Wu, Hua-wei; Zhang, Hao; Zhang, Ji-wei

2011-12-06

To present our initial experiences with pulmonary high-definition multidetector computed tomography (HDCT) in patients with acute venous thromboembolism (AVTE) to evaluate their corresponding clinical manifestations. Since December 2009 to March 2010, 23 AVTE patients underwent HDCT at our hospital. Pulmonary embolism (PE) was diagnosed based on the 3D-reconstructed images of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). The post processed data were collected by spectral imaging system software to detect the iodine distribution maps. Perfusion defects, calculated as the values of iodine content, were compared with those of normal lung parenchymal perfusion in the absence of PE. Among them, 14 AVTE patients were definitely diagnosed with PE. Prior to anticoagulant therapy, their values of iodine content in defective perfusion area were significantly lower than those in normal perfusion area. After a 3-month anticoagulant therapy, the values of iodine content for the defective perfusion area increased significantly (P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the values of iodine content for segmental/subsegmental filling defect area and clinical risk score of DVT (r = 2.68, P > 0.05). But there was a significant negative correlation between the values of iodine content for segmental/subsegmental filling defection area and clinical probability score of PE (r = 0.78, P < 0.05). HDCT is a promising modality of visualizing pulmonary microvasculature as a correlative manifestation of regional perfusion. PE results in hypoperfusion with decreased values of iodine content in affected lung parenchyma. Hemodynamic changes in affected areas correlate with the severity of clinical manifestations of PE.

Multi-modal porous microstructure for high temperature fuel cell application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wejrzanowski, T.; Haj Ibrahim, S.; Cwieka, K.; Loeffler, M.; Milewski, J.; Zschech, E.; Lee, C.-G.

2018-01-01

In this study, the effect of microstructure of porous nickel electrode on the performance of high temperature fuel cell is investigated and presented based on a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) cathode. The cathode materials are fabricated from slurry consisting of nickel powder and polymeric binder/solvent mixture, using the tape casting method. The final pore structure is shaped through modifying the slurry composition - with or without the addition of porogen(s). The manufactured materials are extensively characterized by various techniques involving: micro-computed tomography (micro-XCT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mercury porosimetry, BET and Archimedes method. Tomographic images are also analyzed and quantified to reveal the evolution of pore space due to nickel in situ oxidation to NiO, and infiltration by the electrolyte. Single-cell performance tests are carried out under MCFC operation conditions to estimate the performance of the manufactured materials. It is found that the multi-modal microstructure of MCFC cathode results in a significant enhancement of the power density generated by the reference cell. To give greater insight into the understanding of the effect of microstructure on the properties of the cathode, a model based on 3D tomography image transformation is proposed.

Computed tomography or rhinoscopy as the first-line procedure for suspected nasal tumor: a pilot study.

PubMed

Finck, Marlène; Ponce, Frédérique; Guilbaud, Laurent; Chervier, Cindy; Floch, Franck; Cadoré, Jean-Luc; Chuzel, Thomas; Hugonnard, Marine

2015-02-01

There are no evidence-based guidelines as to whether computed tomography (CT) or endoscopy should be selected as the first-line procedure when a nasal tumor is suspected in a dog or a cat and only one examination can be performed. Computed tomography and rhinoscopic features of 17 dogs and 5 cats with a histopathologically or cytologically confirmed nasal tumor were retrospectively reviewed. The level of suspicion for nasal neoplasia after CT and/or rhinoscopy was compared to the definitive diagnosis. Twelve animals underwent CT, 14 underwent rhinoscopy, and 4 both examinations. Of the 12 CT examinations performed, 11 (92%) resulted in the conclusion that a nasal tumor was the most likely diagnosis compared with 9/14 (64%) for rhinoscopies. Computed tomography appeared to be more reliable than rhinoscopy for detecting nasal tumors and should therefore be considered as the first-line procedure.

Computed tomography or rhinoscopy as the first-line procedure for suspected nasal tumor: A pilot study

PubMed Central

Finck, Marlène; Ponce, Frédérique; Guilbaud, Laurent; Chervier, Cindy; Floch, Franck; Cadoré, Jean-Luc; Chuzel, Thomas; Hugonnard, Marine

2015-01-01

There are no evidence-based guidelines as to whether computed tomography (CT) or endoscopy should be selected as the first-line procedure when a nasal tumor is suspected in a dog or a cat and only one examination can be performed. Computed tomography and rhinoscopic features of 17 dogs and 5 cats with a histopathologically or cytologically confirmed nasal tumor were retrospectively reviewed. The level of suspicion for nasal neoplasia after CT and/or rhinoscopy was compared to the definitive diagnosis. Twelve animals underwent CT, 14 underwent rhinoscopy, and 4 both examinations. Of the 12 CT examinations performed, 11 (92%) resulted in the conclusion that a nasal tumor was the most likely diagnosis compared with 9/14 (64%) for rhinoscopies. Computed tomography appeared to be more reliable than rhinoscopy for detecting nasal tumors and should therefore be considered as the first-line procedure. PMID:25694669

Review of cardiovascular imaging in The Journal of Nuclear Cardiology in 2014: Part 1 of 2: Positron emission tomography, computed tomography, and neuronal imaging.

PubMed

AlJaroudi, Wael A; Hage, Fadi G

2015-06-01

The year 2014 has been an exciting year for the cardiovascular imaging community with significant advances in the realm of nuclear and multimodality cardiac imaging. In this new feature of the Journal of Nuclear Cardiology, we will summarize some of the breakthroughs that were published in the Journal in 2014 in 2 sister articles. This first article will concentrate on publications dealing with cardiac positron emission tomography (PET), computed tomography (CT), and neuronal imaging.

Trends in micro- and nanoComputed Tomography 2008-2010

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, S. R.

2010-09-01

Trends in micro- and nanoComputed Tomography (CT) from January 2008 through July 2010 are the subject of this brief report which takes up where a previous report in Developments in X-ray Tomography VI (2008) concluded. First, the number of systems operating world-wide is estimated. The main focus is on what searches of three citation indices (Web of Science, Compendex and PubMed) reveal about the field of micro- and nanoCT. Given research-fielddependent and disparate terminology used by investigators, searches were on "microtomography", "microCT" and "synchrotron tomography".

Exploring the Fundamental of Fatigue in Composites: Opportunities using X-Ray Computed Tomography Imaging

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-01

matrix composite materials are employed in aerospace applications [1] and increasingly in other sectors such as sustainable energy (e.g. wind turbines ... ring . The difference in terms of source has important advantages for synchrotron radiation CT. One is represented by high spatial resolution...emery cloth between the specimen faces and the grip jaws (grit side toward specimen) was placed to avoid or reduce slip of the specimen in the grips

SU-E-P-08: Establishment of Local Diagnostic Reference Levels of Routine Abdomen Exam in Computed Tomography According to Body Weight

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, H; Wang, Y; Weng, H

Purpose: The national diagnostic reference levels (NDRLs) is an efficient, concise and powerful standard for optimizing radiation protection of a patient. However, for each hospital the dose-reducing potential of focusing on establishment of local DRLs (LDRLs). A lot of study reported that Computed tomography exam contributed majority radiation dose in different medical modalities, therefore, routine abdomen CT exam was choose in initial pilot study in our study. Besides the mAs of routine abdomen CT exam was decided automatic exposure control by linear attenuation is relate to body shape of patient. In this study we would like to establish the localmore » diagnostic reference levels of routine abdomen exam in computed tomography according to body weight of patient. Methods and Materials: There are two clinical CT scanners (a Toshiba Aquilion and a Siemens Sensation) were performed in this study. For CT examinations the basic recommended dosimetric quantity is the Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDI). The patient sample involved 82 adult patients of both sexes and divided into three groups by their body weight (50–60 kg, 60–70 kg, 70–80 kg).Carried out the routine abdomen examinations, and all exposure parameters have been collected and the corresponding CTDIv and DLP values have been determined. The average values were compared with the European DRLs. Results: The majority of patients (75%) were between 50–70 Kg of body weight, the numbers of patient in each group of weight were 40–50:7; 50–60:29; 60–70:33; 70–80:13. The LDRLs in each group were 10.81mGy, 14.46mGy, 20.27mGy and 21.04mGy, respectively. The DLP were 477mGy, 630mGy, 887mGy and 959mGy, respectively. No matter which group the LDRLs were lower than European DRLs. Conclusions: We would like to state that this was a pioneer work in local hospital in Chiayi. We hope that this may lead the way to further developments in Taiwan.« less

[Measurement of intracranial hematoma volume by personal computer].

PubMed

DU, Wanping; Tan, Lihua; Zhai, Ning; Zhou, Shunke; Wang, Rui; Xue, Gongshi; Xiao, An

2011-01-01

To explore the method for intracranial hematoma volume measurement by the personal computer. Forty cases of various intracranial hematomas were measured by the computer tomography with quantitative software and personal computer with Photoshop CS3 software, respectively. the data from the 2 methods were analyzed and compared. There was no difference between the data from the computer tomography and the personal computer (P>0.05). The personal computer with Photoshop CS3 software can measure the volume of various intracranial hematomas precisely, rapidly and simply. It should be recommended in the clinical medicolegal identification.

Computed Tomography of the Musculoskeletal System.

PubMed

Ballegeer, Elizabeth A

2016-05-01

Computed tomography (CT) has specific uses in veterinary species' appendicular musculoskeletal system. Parameters for acquisition of images, interpretation limitations, as well as published information regarding its use in small animals is reviewed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

MicroCT and optical coherence tomography imagistic assessment of the dental roots adhesive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinescu, Cosmin; Negrutiu, Meda Lavinia; Nica, Luminita; Manescu, Adrian; Duma, Virgil-Florin; Podoleanu, Adrian G.

2015-03-01

Several obturation methods are available today to study the 3D filling of the root canal. There are also several methods capable to evaluate the ability to seal apically the root canals. However, the common methods of investigation are invasive; they also lead to the destruction of the samples. If the sectioning differs slightly from the desired area, the investigation is non-conclusive regarding the micro-leakages. Also, although the use of Cone-Beam Micro Computer Tomography (CBCT) appears to be most promising for endodontic purposes, its effective radiation doses are higher than with conventional intra-oral and panoramic imaging. In contrast, enface (ef) Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) proves to be efficient for the investigation of material defects of dental restorations, dental materials, and micro-leakage at the interfaces, where the penetration depth depends on the material. Therefore, ef OCT has been proposed in our studies as a potential tool for in vivo endodontic imaging. Twenty five recently extracted human maxillary molars were selected for the study for caries or periodontal reasons. The pulp chambers were completely opened, the dental pulp was removed, and the root canals were shaped. Silver nanoparticles were used in half of the samples in order to increase the scattering of the adhesive material in comparison with the dental roots walls. The sample teeth were then probed using Time Domain (TD) OCT working at 1300 nm. A synchrotron radiation X-Ray microCT experiment was also performed. The imagistic results pointed out the efficiency of the silver nanoparticle layer used in order to increase the scattering of the root canal adhesive scattering for the OCT non-invasive investigation. MicroCT allowed for obtaining qualitative data related to the depth penetration of the root canal adhesive into the dentin walls.

Computer aided stress analysis of long bones utilizing computer tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Marom, S.A.

1986-01-01

A computer aided analysis method, utilizing computed tomography (CT) has been developed, which together with a finite element program determines the stress-displacement pattern in a long bone section. The CT data file provides the geometry, the density and the material properties for the generated finite element model. A three-dimensional finite element model of a tibial shaft is automatically generated from the CT file by a pre-processing procedure for a finite element program. The developed pre-processor includes an edge detection algorithm which determines the boundaries of the reconstructed cross-sectional images of the scanned bone. A mesh generation procedure than automatically generatesmore » a three-dimensional mesh of a user-selected refinement. The elastic properties needed for the stress analysis are individually determined for each model element using the radiographic density (CT number) of each pixel with the elemental borders. The elastic modulus is determined from the CT radiographic density by using an empirical relationship from the literature. The generated finite element model, together with applied loads, determined from existing gait analysis and initial displacements, comprise a formatted input for the SAP IV finite element program. The output of this program, stresses and displacements at the model elements and nodes, are sorted and displayed by a developed post-processor to provide maximum and minimum values at selected locations in the model.« less

Cholangiocarcinoma associated with limbic encephalitis and early cerebral abnormalities detected by 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose integrated with computed tomography-positron emission tomography: a case report.

PubMed

Schmidt, Sergio L; Schmidt, Juliana J; Tolentino, Julio C; Ferreira, Carlos G; de Almeida, Sergio A; Alvarenga, Regina P; Simoes, Eunice N; Schmidt, Guilherme J; Canedo, Nathalie H S; Chimelli, Leila

2016-07-20

Limbic encephalitis was originally described as a rare clinical neuropathological entity involving seizures and neuropsychological disturbances. In this report, we describe cerebral patterns visualized by positron emission tomography in a patient with limbic encephalitis and cholangiocarcinoma. To our knowledge, there is no other description in the literature of cerebral positron emission tomography findings in the setting of limbic encephalitis and subsequent diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma. We describe a case of a 77-year-old Caucasian man who exhibited persistent cognitive changes 2 years before his death. A cerebral scan obtained at that time by 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro- D -glucose integrated with computed tomography-positron emission tomography showed low radiotracer uptake in the frontal and temporal lobes. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis indicated the presence of voltage-gated potassium channel antibodies. Three months before the patient's death, a lymph node biopsy indicated a cholangiocarcinoma, and a new cerebral scan obtained by 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose integrated with computed tomography-positron emission tomography showed an increment in the severity of metabolic deficit in the frontal and parietal lobes, as well as hypometabolism involving the temporal lobes. Two months before the patient's death, cerebral metastases were detected on a contrast-enhanced computed tomographic scan. Postmortem examination revealed a cholangiocarcinoma with multiple metastases including the lungs and lymph nodes. The patient's brain weighed 1300 g, and mild cortical atrophy, ex vacuo dilation of the ventricles, and mild focal thickening of the cerebellar leptomeninges, which were infiltrated by neoplastic epithelial cells, were observed. These findings support the need for continued vigilance in malignancy surveillance in patients with limbic encephalitis and early cerebral positron emission tomographic scan abnormalities. The difficulty in early diagnosis of small tumors, such as a cholangiocarcinoma, is discussed in the context of the clinical utility of early cerebral hypometabolism detected by 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose integrated with computed tomography-positron emission tomography in patients with rapidly progressive dementia.

Intraoperative 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography and Navigation in Foot and Ankle Surgery.

PubMed

Chowdhary, Ashwin; Drittenbass, Lisca; Dubois-Ferrière, Victor; Stern, Richard; Assal, Mathieu

2016-09-01

Computer-assisted orthopedic surgery has developed dramatically during the past 2 decades. This article describes the use of intraoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography and navigation in foot and ankle surgery. Traditional imaging based on serial radiography or C-arm-based fluoroscopy does not provide simultaneous real-time 3-dimensional imaging, and thus leads to suboptimal visualization and guidance. Three-dimensional computed tomography allows for accurate intraoperative visualization of the position of bones and/or navigation implants. Such imaging and navigation helps to further reduce intraoperative complications, leads to improved surgical outcomes, and may become the gold standard in foot and ankle surgery. [Orthopedics.2016; 39(5):e1005-e1010.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

A Case Report of Onyx Pulmonary Arterial Embolism Contributing to Hypoxemia During Awake Craniotomy for Arteriovenous Malformation Resection.

PubMed

Tolly, Brian T; Kosky, Jenna L; Koht, Antoun; Hemmer, Laura B

2017-02-15

A healthy 26-year-old man with cerebral arteriovenous malformation underwent staged endovascular embolization with Onyx followed by awake craniotomy for resection. The perioperative course was complicated by tachycardia and severe intraoperative hypoxemia requiring significant oxygen supplementation. Postoperative chest computed tomography (CT) revealed hyperattenuating Onyx embolization material within the pulmonary vasculature, and an electrocardiogram indicated possible right heart strain, supporting clinically significant embolism. With awake arteriovenous malformation resection following adjunctive Onyx embolization becoming increasingly employed for lesions involving the eloquent cortex, anesthesiologists need to be aware of pulmonary migration of Onyx material as a potential contributor to significant perioperative hypoxemia.

IMAGING DIAGNOSIS-URETHROVAGINAL FISTULA CAUSED BY A MIGRATING GRASS AWN IN THE VAGINA.

PubMed

Agut, Amalia; Carrillo, Juana D; Anson, Agustina; Belda, Eliseo; Soler, Marta

2016-05-01

A young intact female dog was presented with urinary incontinence. Abdominal ultrasound revealed the presence of hyperechoic linear structures within the cranial vagina suggestive of foreign material. A computed tomography (CT) retrograde vaginourethrogram demonstrated the presence of a fistulous tract between the urethra and vagina. A presumptive diagnosis of urethrovaginal fistula due to migration of foreign material was made. The grass awn was removed with vaginoscopic-guided retrieval. Fourteen days later, surgical repair of the fistula and an ovariohysterectomy were done. This case report emphasizes the usefulness of CT for diagnosis and precise anatomical localization of genitourinary tract fistulas. © 2015 American College of Veterinary Radiology.

Domain identification in impedance computed tomography by spline collocation method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kojima, Fumio

1990-01-01

A method for estimating an unknown domain in elliptic boundary value problems is considered. The problem is formulated as an inverse problem of integral equations of the second kind. A computational method is developed using a splice collocation scheme. The results can be applied to the inverse problem of impedance computed tomography (ICT) for image reconstruction.

Dual energy computed tomography for the head.

PubMed

Naruto, Norihito; Itoh, Toshihide; Noguchi, Kyo

2018-02-01

Dual energy CT (DECT) is a promising technology that provides better diagnostic accuracy in several brain diseases. DECT can generate various types of CT images from a single acquisition data set at high kV and low kV based on material decomposition algorithms. The two-material decomposition algorithm can separate bone/calcification from iodine accurately. The three-material decomposition algorithm can generate a virtual non-contrast image, which helps to identify conditions such as brain hemorrhage. A virtual monochromatic image has the potential to eliminate metal artifacts by reducing beam-hardening effects. DECT also enables exploration of advanced imaging to make diagnosis easier. One such novel application of DECT is the X-Map, which helps to visualize ischemic stroke in the brain without using iodine contrast medium.

Fast automatic segmentation of anatomical structures in x-ray computed tomography images to improve fluorescence molecular tomography reconstruction.

PubMed

Freyer, Marcus; Ale, Angelique; Schulz, Ralf B; Zientkowska, Marta; Ntziachristos, Vasilis; Englmeier, Karl-Hans

2010-01-01

The recent development of hybrid imaging scanners that integrate fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) and x-ray computed tomography (XCT) allows the utilization of x-ray information as image priors for improving optical tomography reconstruction. To fully capitalize on this capacity, we consider a framework for the automatic and fast detection of different anatomic structures in murine XCT images. To accurately differentiate between different structures such as bone, lung, and heart, a combination of image processing steps including thresholding, seed growing, and signal detection are found to offer optimal segmentation performance. The algorithm and its utilization in an inverse FMT scheme that uses priors is demonstrated on mouse images.

Application of Neutron Tomography in Culture Heritage research.

PubMed

Mongy, T

2014-02-01

Neutron Tomography (NT) investigation of Culture Heritages (CH) is an efficient tool for understanding the culture of ancient civilizations. Neutron imaging (NI) is a-state-of-the-art non-destructive tool in the area of CH and plays an important role in the modern archeology. The NI technology can be widely utilized in the field of elemental analysis. At Egypt Second Research Reactor (ETRR-2), a collimated Neutron Radiography (NR) beam is employed for neutron imaging purposes. A digital CCD camera is utilized for recording the beam attenuation in the sample. This helps for the detection of hidden objects and characterization of material properties. Research activity can be extended to use computer software for quantitative neutron measurement. Development of image processing algorithms can be used to obtain high quality images. In this work, full description of ETRR-2 was introduced with up to date neutron imaging system as well. Tomographic investigation of a clay forged artifact represents CH object was studied by neutron imaging methods in order to obtain some hidden information and highlight some attractive quantitative measurements. Computer software was used for imaging processing and enhancement. Also the Astra Image 3.0 Pro software was employed for high precise measurements and imaging enhancement using advanced algorithms. This work increased the effective utilization of the ETRR-2 Neutron Radiography/Tomography (NR/T) technique in Culture Heritages activities. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dual-Energy CT: Basic Principles, Technical Approaches, and Applications in Musculoskeletal Imaging (Part 1).

PubMed

Omoumi, Patrick; Becce, Fabio; Racine, Damien; Ott, Julien G; Andreisek, Gustav; Verdun, Francis R

2015-12-01

In recent years, technological advances have allowed manufacturers to implement dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) on clinical scanners. With its unique ability to differentiate basis materials by their atomic number, DECT has opened new perspectives in imaging. DECT has been used successfully in musculoskeletal imaging with applications ranging from detection, characterization, and quantification of crystal and iron deposits; to simulation of noncalcium (improving the visualization of bone marrow lesions) or noniodine images. Furthermore, the data acquired with DECT can be postprocessed to generate monoenergetic images of varying kiloelectron volts, providing new methods for image contrast optimization as well as metal artifact reduction. The first part of this article reviews the basic principles and technical aspects of DECT including radiation dose considerations. The second part focuses on applications of DECT to musculoskeletal imaging including gout and other crystal-induced arthropathies, virtual noncalcium images for the study of bone marrow lesions, the study of collagenous structures, applications in computed tomography arthrography, as well as the detection of hemosiderin and metal particles. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Dual-Energy CT: Basic Principles, Technical Approaches, and Applications in Musculoskeletal Imaging (Part 2).

PubMed

Omoumi, Patrick; Verdun, Francis R; Guggenberger, Roman; Andreisek, Gustav; Becce, Fabio

2015-12-01

In recent years, technological advances have allowed manufacturers to implement dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) on clinical scanners. With its unique ability to differentiate basis materials by their atomic number, DECT has opened new perspectives in imaging. DECT has been successfully used in musculoskeletal imaging with applications ranging from detection, characterization, and quantification of crystal and iron deposits, to simulation of noncalcium (improving the visualization of bone marrow lesions) or noniodine images. Furthermore, the data acquired with DECT can be postprocessed to generate monoenergetic images of varying kiloelectron volts, providing new methods for image contrast optimization as well as metal artifact reduction. The first part of this article reviews the basic principles and technical aspects of DECT including radiation dose considerations. The second part focuses on applications of DECT to musculoskeletal imaging including gout and other crystal-induced arthropathies, virtual noncalcium images for the study of bone marrow lesions, the study of collagenous structures, applications in computed tomography arthrography, as well as the detection of hemosiderin and metal particles. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Electrode Models for Electric Current Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

CHENG, KUO-SHENG; ISAACSON, DAVID; NEWELL, J. C.; GISSER, DAVID G.

2016-01-01

This paper develops a mathematical model for the physical properties of electrodes suitable for use in electric current computed tomography (ECCT). The model includes the effects of discretization, shunt, and contact impedance. The complete model was validated by experiment. Bath resistivities of 284.0, 139.7, 62.3, 29.5 Ω · cm were studied. Values of “effective” contact impedance z used in the numerical approximations were 58.0, 35.0, 15.0, and 7.5 Ω · cm2, respectively. Agreement between the calculated and experimentally measured values was excellent throughout the range of bath conductivities studied. It is desirable in electrical impedance imaging systems to model the observed voltages to the same precision as they are measured in order to be able to make the highest resolution reconstructions of the internal conductivity that the measurement precision allows. The complete electrode model, which includes the effects of discretization of the current pattern, the shunt effect due to the highly conductive electrode material, and the effect of an “effective” contact impedance, allows calculation of the voltages due to any current pattern applied to a homogeneous resistivity field. PMID:2777280

Electrode models for electric current computed tomography.

PubMed

Cheng, K S; Isaacson, D; Newell, J C; Gisser, D G

1989-09-01

This paper develops a mathematical model for the physical properties of electrodes suitable for use in electric current computed tomography (ECCT). The model includes the effects of discretization, shunt, and contact impedance. The complete model was validated by experiment. Bath resistivities of 284.0, 139.7, 62.3, 29.5 omega.cm were studied. Values of "effective" contact impedance zeta used in the numerical approximations were 58.0, 35.0, 15.0, and 7.5 omega.cm2, respectively. Agreement between the calculated and experimentally measured values was excellent throughout the range of bath conductivities studied. It is desirable in electrical impedance imaging systems to model the observed voltages to the same precision as they are measured in order to be able to make the highest resolution reconstructions of the internal conductivity that the measurement precision allows. The complete electrode model, which includes the effects of discretization of the current pattern, the shunt effect due to the highly conductive electrode material, and the effect of an "effective" contact impedance, allows calculation of the voltages due to any current pattern applied to a homogeneous resistivity field.

Geometrical analysis of woven fabric microstructure based on micron-resolution computed tomography data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krieger, Helga; Seide, Gunnar; Gries, Thomas; Stapleton, Scott E.

2018-04-01

The global mechanical properties of textiles such as elasticity and strength, as well as transport properties such as permeability depend strongly on the microstructure of the textile. Textiles are heterogeneous structures with highly anisotropic material properties, including local fiber orientation and local fiber volume fraction. In this paper, an algorithm is presented to generate a virtual 3D-model of a woven fabric architecture with information about the local fiber orientation and the local fiber volume fraction. The geometric data of the woven fabric impregnated with resin was obtained by micron-resolution computed tomography (μCT). The volumetric μCT-scan was discretized into cells and the microstructure of each cell was analyzed and homogenized. Furthermore, the discretized data was used to calculate the local permeability tensors of each cell. An example application of the analyzed data is the simulation of the resin flow through a woven fabric based on the determined local permeability tensors and on Darcy's law. The presented algorithm is an automated and robust method of going from μCT-scans to structural or flow models.

Correlation between coronal and apical arch form and degree of divergence: a volumetric computed tomography analysis

PubMed Central

LOMBARDO, L.; VERONESI, F.; CANDOTTO, V.; NARDONE, M.; SICILIANI, G.

2017-01-01

SUMMARY Purpose. To determine the existence of any correlation between the degree of divergence and apical and coronal arch form using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and methods. A total of 176 (88 coronal and 88 apical) CBCT scans pertaining to a sample of 44 subjects (16 males and 28 females), of which 26 were Class I, 14 Class II and 4 Class III, were analysed. A lateral projection of the skull was obtained from each VCT and cephalometric tracing was performed (according to Ricketts) so as to divide the sample into subgroups based on the degree of divergence (11 short-faced, 18 norm-faced and 15 long-faced subjects). Dahlberg’s index values were calculated and Student’s t-test for paired data was applied. Results. On the whole, the hyperbolic cosine curve was found to be the most representative of the arch forms considered. Conclusions. A correlation between degree of divergence and the arch form of the apical and, especially, coronal portions of both the upper and lower jaws was revealed. PMID:29682260

Non-invasive imaging of the crystalline structure within a human tooth.

PubMed

Egan, Christopher K; Jacques, Simon D M; Di Michiel, Marco; Cai, Biao; Zandbergen, Mathijs W; Lee, Peter D; Beale, Andrew M; Cernik, Robert J

2013-09-01

The internal crystalline structure of a human molar tooth has been non-destructively imaged in cross-section using X-ray diffraction computed tomography. Diffraction signals from high-energy X-rays which have large attenuation lengths for hard biomaterials have been collected in a transmission geometry. Coupling this with a computed tomography data acquisition and mathematically reconstructing their spatial origins, diffraction patterns from every voxel within the tooth can be obtained. Using this method we have observed the spatial variations of some key material parameters including nanocrystallite size, organic content, lattice parameters, crystallographic preferred orientation and degree of orientation. We have also made a link between the spatial variations of the unit cell lattice parameters and the chemical make-up of the tooth. In addition, we have determined how the onset of tooth decay occurs through clear amorphization of the hydroxyapatite crystal, and we have been able to map the extent of decay within the tooth. The described method has strong prospects for non-destructive probing of mineralized biomaterials. Copyright © 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An electron beam linear scanning mode for industrial limited-angle nano-computed tomography.

PubMed

Wang, Chengxiang; Zeng, Li; Yu, Wei; Zhang, Lingli; Guo, Yumeng; Gong, Changcheng

2018-01-01

Nano-computed tomography (nano-CT), which utilizes X-rays to research the inner structure of some small objects and has been widely utilized in biomedical research, electronic technology, geology, material sciences, etc., is a high spatial resolution and non-destructive research technique. A traditional nano-CT scanning model with a very high mechanical precision and stability of object manipulator, which is difficult to reach when the scanned object is continuously rotated, is required for high resolution imaging. To reduce the scanning time and attain a stable and high resolution imaging in industrial non-destructive testing, we study an electron beam linear scanning mode of nano-CT system that can avoid mechanical vibration and object movement caused by the continuously rotated object. Furthermore, to further save the scanning time and study how small the scanning range could be considered with acceptable spatial resolution, an alternating iterative algorithm based on ℓ 0 minimization is utilized to limited-angle nano-CT reconstruction problem with the electron beam linear scanning mode. The experimental results confirm the feasibility of the electron beam linear scanning mode of nano-CT system.

Living Donor Liver Transplantation Using a Liver Graft With Congenital Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt

PubMed Central

Kamei, Hideya; Imai, Hisashi; Onishi, Yasuharu; Sugimoto, Hiroyuki; Suzuki, Kojiro; Ogura, Yasuhiro

2016-01-01

Background Despite of recent development of imaging modalities, congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (IPSS) is rarely diagnosed. Therefore, living donor liver transplantation using a liver graft with IPSS has not been previously published. Materials and Methods We report a 28-year-old male patient with end-stage liver disease secondary to Wilson disease. His 26-year-old brother was a potential living donor, who had an IPSS of 25 mm in diameter at segment 6 as shown by computed tomography. Liver function tests were normal, and blood ammonia concentration was in the upper limit of normal. Results Living donor liver transplantation was uneventfully performed. After surgery, a recipient liver function tests showed a quick recovery, and serum ammonia levels were consistently normal. Although thrombosis inside the IPSS was confirmed by computed tomography on postoperative day 21, this thrombosis disappeared at 3 months posttransplant with anticoagulants. Currently (12 months posttransplant), the patient has fully recovered, and the IPSS is still the same size. Conclusions Based on our experience, liver allografts with IPSS can be accepted as potential liver allografts. PMID:27500240

Evaluation of the validity of the Bolton Index using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)

PubMed Central

Llamas, José M.; Cibrián, Rosa; Gandía, José L.; Paredes, Vanessa

2012-01-01

Aims: To evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of calculating the Bolton Index using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and to compare this with measurements obtained using the 2D Digital Method. Material and Methods: Traditional study models were obtained from 50 patients, which were then digitized in order to be able to measure them using the Digital Method. Likewise, CBCTs of those same patients were undertaken using the Dental Picasso Master 3D® and the images obtained were then analysed using the InVivoDental programme. Results: By determining the regression lines for both measurement methods, as well as the difference between both of their values, the two methods are shown to be comparable, despite the fact that the measurements analysed presented statistically significant differences. Conclusions: The three-dimensional models obtained from the CBCT are as accurate and reproducible as the digital models obtained from the plaster study casts for calculating the Bolton Index. The differences existing between both methods were clinically acceptable. Key words:Tooth-size, digital models, bolton index, CBCT. PMID:22549690

An electron beam linear scanning mode for industrial limited-angle nano-computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chengxiang; Zeng, Li; Yu, Wei; Zhang, Lingli; Guo, Yumeng; Gong, Changcheng

2018-01-01

Nano-computed tomography (nano-CT), which utilizes X-rays to research the inner structure of some small objects and has been widely utilized in biomedical research, electronic technology, geology, material sciences, etc., is a high spatial resolution and non-destructive research technique. A traditional nano-CT scanning model with a very high mechanical precision and stability of object manipulator, which is difficult to reach when the scanned object is continuously rotated, is required for high resolution imaging. To reduce the scanning time and attain a stable and high resolution imaging in industrial non-destructive testing, we study an electron beam linear scanning mode of nano-CT system that can avoid mechanical vibration and object movement caused by the continuously rotated object. Furthermore, to further save the scanning time and study how small the scanning range could be considered with acceptable spatial resolution, an alternating iterative algorithm based on ℓ0 minimization is utilized to limited-angle nano-CT reconstruction problem with the electron beam linear scanning mode. The experimental results confirm the feasibility of the electron beam linear scanning mode of nano-CT system.

Determinants of the mechanical properties of bones

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, R. B.

1991-01-01

The mechanical properties of bones are governed by the same principles as those of man-made load-bearing structures, but the organism is able to adapt its bone structure to changes in skeletal loading. In this overview of the determinants of the strength and stiffness of bone, a continuum approach has been taken, in which the behavior of a macroscopic structure depends on its shape and size, and on the mechanical properties of the material within. The latter are assumed to depend on the composition (porosity and mineralization) and organization (trabecular or cortical bone architecture, collagen fiber orientation, fatigue damage) of the bone. The effects of each of these factors are reviewed. Also, the possible means of non-invasively estimating the strength or other mechanical properties of a bone are reviewed, including quantitative computed tomography, photon absorptiometry, and ultrasonic measurements. The best estimates of strength have been obtained with photon absorptiometry and computed tomography, which at best are capable of accounting for 90% of the strength variability in a simple in vitro test, but results from different laboratories have been highly variable.

A Comparative Evaluation of Mixed Dentition Analysis on Reliability of Cone Beam Computed Tomography Image Compared to Plaster Model

PubMed Central

Gowd, Snigdha; Shankar, T; Dash, Samarendra; Sahoo, Nivedita; Chatterjee, Suravi; Mohanty, Pritam

2017-01-01

Aims and Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the reliability of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) obtained image over plaster model for the assessment of mixed dentition analysis. Materials and Methods: Thirty CBCT-derived images and thirty plaster models were derived from the dental archives, and Moyer's and Tanaka-Johnston analyses were performed. The data obtained were interpreted and analyzed statistically using SPSS 10.0/PC (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Descriptive and analytical analysis along with Student's t-test was performed to qualitatively evaluate the data and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Statistically, significant results were obtained on data comparison between CBCT-derived images and plaster model; the mean for Moyer's analysis in the left and right lower arch for CBCT and plaster model was 21.2 mm, 21.1 mm and 22.5 mm, 22.5 mm, respectively. Conclusion: CBCT-derived images were less reliable as compared to data obtained directly from plaster model for mixed dentition analysis. PMID:28852639

Multi-scale analytical investigation of fly ash in concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aboustait, Mohammed B.

Much research has been conducted to find an acceptable concrete ingredient that would act as cement replacement. One promising material is fly ash. Fly ash is a by-product from coal-fired power plants. Throughout this document work on the characterization of fly ash structure and composition will be explored. This effort was conducted through a mixture of cutting edge multi-scale analytical X-ray based techniques that use both bulk experimentation and nano/micro analytical techniques. Furtherly, this examination was coupled by performing Physical/Mechanical ASTM based testing on fly ash-enrolled-concrete to examine the effects of fly ash introduction. The most exotic of the cutting edge characterization techniques endorsed in this work uses the Nano-Computed Tomography and the Nano X-ray Fluorescence at Argonne National Laboratory to investigate single fly ash particles. Additional Work on individual fly ash particles was completed by laboratory-based Micro-Computed Tomography and Scanning Electron Microscopy. By combining the results of individual particles and bulk property tests, a compiled perspective is introduced, and accessed to try and make new insights into the reactivity of fly ash within concrete.

Advanced imaging technologies for mapping cadaveric lymphatic anatomy: magnetic resonance and computed tomography lymphangiography.

PubMed

Pan, W R; Rozen, W M; Stretch, J; Thierry, B; Ashton, M W; Corlett, R J

2008-09-01

Lymphatic anatomy has become increasingly clinically important as surgical techniques evolve for investigating and treating cancer metastases. However, due to limited anatomical techniques available, research in this field has been insufficient. The techniques of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) lymphangiography have not been described previously in the imaging of cadaveric lymphatic anatomy. This preliminary work describes the feasibility of these advanced imaging technologies for imaging lymphatic anatomy. A single, fresh cadaveric lower limb underwent lymphatic dissection and cannulation utilizing microsurgical techniques. Contrast materials for both CT and MR studies were chosen based on their suitability for subsequent clinical use, and imaging was undertaken with a view to mapping lymphatic anatomy. Microdissection studies were compared with imaging findings in each case. Both MR-based and CT-based contrast media in current clinical use were found to be suitable for demonstrating cadaveric lymphatic anatomy upon direct intralymphatic injection. MR lymphangiography and CT lymphangiography are feasible modalities for cadaveric anatomical research for lymphatic anatomy. Future studies including refinements in scanning techniques may offer these technologies to the clinical setting.

Identification of internal defects of hardfacing coatings in regeneration of machine parts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Józwik, Jerzy; Dziedzic, Krzysztof; Pashechko, Mykhalo; Łukasiewicz, Andrzej

2017-10-01

The quality control of hardfacing is one of the areas where non-destructive testing is applied. To detect defects and inconsistencies in the industrial practice one uses the same methods as in the testing of welded joints. Computed Tomography is a type of X-ray spectroscopy. It is used as a diagnostic method that allows to obtain layered images of examined hardfacing. The paper presents the use of Computed Tomography for the evaluation of defects of hardfacing parts and errors. Padding welds were produced using GMA consumable electrode welding with CO2 active gas. The padding material used were cored wires FILTUB DUR 16, and ones produced from a Fe-Mn-C-Si-Cr-Mo-Ti-W alloy. The layers were padded on to different surfaces: C45, 165CrV12, 42CrMo4, S235JR steel. Typical defects occurring in the pads and the influence of the type of wire on the concentration of defects were characterized. The resulting pads were characterized by occurring inconsistencies taking the form of pores, intrusions and fractures.

Clinical applications of cone beam computed tomography in endodontics: A comprehensive review.

PubMed

Cohenca, Nestor; Shemesh, Hagay

2015-09-01

The use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in endodontics has been extensively reported in the literature. Compared with the traditional spiral computed tomography, limited field of view (FOV) CBCT results in a fraction of the effective absorbed dose of radiation. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the application and advantages associated with advanced endodontic problems and complications, while reducing radiation exposure during complex endodontic procedures. The benefits of the added diagnostic information provided by intraoperative CBCT images in select cases justify the risk associated with the limited level of radiation exposure.

Dry coupling for whole-body small-animal photoacoustic computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeh, Chenghung; Li, Lei; Zhu, Liren; Xia, Jun; Li, Chiye; Chen, Wanyi; Garcia-Uribe, Alejandro; Maslov, Konstantin I.; Wang, Lihong V.

2017-04-01

We have enhanced photoacoustic computed tomography with dry acoustic coupling that eliminates water immersion anxiety and wrinkling of the animal and facilitates incorporating complementary modalities and procedures. The dry acoustic coupler is made of a tubular elastic membrane enclosed by a closed transparent water tank. The tubular membrane ensures water-free contact with the animal, and the closed water tank allows pressurization for animal stabilization. The dry coupler was tested using a whole-body small-animal ring-shaped photoacoustic computed tomography system. Dry coupling was found to provide image quality comparable to that of conventional water coupling.

Linear-array based full-view high-resolution photoacoustic computed tomography of whole mouse brain functions in vivo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Lei; Zhang, Pengfei; Wang, Lihong V.

2018-02-01

Photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) is a non-invasive imaging technique offering high contrast, high resolution, and deep penetration in biological tissues. We report a photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) system equipped with a high frequency linear array for anatomical and functional imaging of the mouse whole brain. The linear array was rotationally scanned in the coronal plane to achieve the full-view coverage. We investigated spontaneous neural activities in the deep brain by monitoring the hemodynamics and observed strong interhemispherical correlations between contralateral regions, both in the cortical layer and in the deep regions.

[Contribution of X-ray computed tomography in the evaluation of kidney performance].

PubMed

Lemoine, Sandrine; Rognant, Nicolas; Collet-Benzaquen, Diane; Juillard, Laurent

2012-07-01

X-ray computer assisted tomography scanner is an imaging method based on the use of X-ray attenuation in tissue. This attenuation is proportional to the density of the tissue (without or after contrast media injection) in each pixel image of the image. Spiral scanner, the electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) scanner and multidetector computed tomography scanner allow renal anatomical measurements, such as cortical and medullary volume, but also the measurement of renal functional parameters, such as regional renal perfusion, renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate. These functional parameters are extracted from the modeling of the kinetics of the contrast media concentration in the vascular space and the renal tissue, using two main mathematical models (the gamma variate model and the Patlak model). Renal functional imaging allows measuring quantitative parameters on each kidney separately, in a non-invasive manner, providing significant opportunities in nephrology, both for experimental and clinical studies. However, this method uses contrast media that may alter renal function, thus limiting its use in patients with chronic renal failure. Moreover, the increase irradiation delivered to the patient with multi detector computed tomography (MDCT) should be considered. Copyright © 2011 Association Société de néphrologie. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

Inter- and intraobserver reliability of the vertebral, local and segmental kyphosis in 120 traumatic lumbar and thoracic burst fractures: evaluation in lateral X-rays and sagittal computed tomographies

PubMed Central

Brunner, Alexander; Gühring, Markus; Schmälzle, Traude; Weise, Kuno; Badke, Andreas

2009-01-01

Evaluation of the kyphosis angle in thoracic and lumbar burst fractures is often used to indicate surgical procedures. The kyphosis angle could be measured as vertebral, segmental and local kyphosis according to the method of Cobb. The vertebral, segmental and local kyphosis according to the method of Cobb were measured at 120 lateral X-rays and sagittal computed tomographies of 60 thoracic and 60 lumbar burst fractures by 3 independent observers on 2 separate occasions. Osteoporotic fractures were excluded. The intra- and interobserver reliability of these angles in X-ray and computed tomogram, using the intra class correlation coefficient (ICC) were evaluated. Highest reproducibility showed the segmental kyphosis followed by the vertebral kyphosis. For thoracic fractures segmental kyphosis shows in X-ray “excellent” inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC 0.826, 0.802) and for lumbar fractures “good” to “excellent” inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC = 0.790, 0.803). In computed tomography, the segmental kyphosis showed “excellent” inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC = 0.824, 0.801) for thoracic and “excellent” inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC = 0.874, 0.835) for the lumbar fractures. Regarding both diagnostic work ups (X-ray and computed tomography), significant differences were evaluated in interobserver reliabilities for vertebral kyphosis measured in lumbar fracture X-rays (p = 0.035) and interobserver reliabilities for local kyphosis, measured in thoracic fracture X-rays (p = 0.010). Regarding both fracture localizations (thoracic and lumbar fractures), significant differences could only be evaluated in interobserver reliabilities for the local kyphosis measured in computed tomographies (p = 0.045) and in intraobserver reliabilities for the vertebral kyphosis measured in X-rays (p = 0.024). “Good” to “excellent” inter- and intraobserver reliabilities for vertebral, segmental and local kyphosis in X-ray make these angles to a helpful tool, indicating surgical procedures. For the practical use in lateral X-ray, we emphasize the determination of the segmental kyphosis, because of the highest reproducibility of this angle. “Good” to “excellent” inter- and intraobserver reliabilities for these three angles could also be evaluated in computed tomographies. Therefore, also in computed tomography, the use of these three angles seems to be generally possible. For a direct correlation of the results in lateral X-ray and in computed tomography, further studies should be needed. PMID:19953277

Dipyridamole stress myocardial perfusion by computed tomography in patients with left bundle branch block.

PubMed

Cabeda, Estêvan Vieira; Falcão, Andréa Maria Gomes; Soares, José; Rochitte, Carlos Eduardo; Nomura, César Higa; Ávila, Luiz Francisco Rodrigues; Parga, José Rodrigues

2015-12-01

Functional tests have limited accuracy for identifying myocardial ischemia in patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB). To assess the diagnostic accuracy of dipyridamole-stress myocardial computed tomography perfusion (CTP) by 320-detector CT in patients with LBBB using invasive quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) (stenosis ≥ 70%) as reference; to investigate the advantage of adding CTP to coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) and compare the results with those of single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion scintigraphy. Thirty patients with LBBB who had undergone SPECT for the investigation of coronary artery disease were referred for stress tomography. Independent examiners performed per-patient and per-coronary territory assessments. All patients gave written informed consent to participate in the study that was approved by the institution's ethics committee. The patients' mean age was 62 ± 10 years. The mean dose of radiation for the tomography protocol was 9.3 ± 4.6 mSv. With regard to CTP, the per-patient values for sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy were 86%, 81%, 80%, 87%, and 83%, respectively (p = 0.001). The per-territory values were 63%, 86%, 65%, 84%, and 79%, respectively (p < 0.001). In both analyses, the addition of CTP to CTA achieved higher diagnostic accuracy for detecting myocardial ischemia than SPECT (p < 0.001). The use of the stress tomography protocol is feasible and has good diagnostic accuracy for assessing myocardial ischemia in patients with LBBB.

Tortuosity Computations of Porous Materials using the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borner, A.; Ferguson, C.; Panerai, F.; Mansour, Nagi N.

2017-01-01

Low-density carbon fiber preforms, used as thermal protection systems (TPS) materials for planetary entry systems, have permeable, highly porous microstructures consisting of interlaced fibers. Internal gas transport in TPS is important in modeling the penetration of hot boundary-layer gases and the in-depth transport of pyrolysis and ablation products. The gas effective diffusion coefficient of a porous material must be known before the gas transport can be modeled in material response solvers; however, there are very little available data for rigid fibrous insulators used in heritage TPS.The tortuosity factor, which reflects the efficiency of the percolation paths, can be computed from the effective diffusion coefficient of a gas inside a porous material and is based on the micro-structure of the material. It is well known, that the tortuosity factor is a strong function of the Knudsen number. Due to the small characteristic scales of porous media used in TPS applications (typical pore size of the order of 50 micron), the transport of gases can occur in the rarefied and transitional regimes, at Knudsen numbers above 1. A proper way to model the gas dynamics at these conditions consists in solving the Boltzmann equation using particle-based methods that account for movement and collisions of atoms and molecules.In this work we adopt, for the first time, the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method to compute the tortuosity factor of fibrous media in the rarefied regime. To enable realistic simulations of the actual transport of gases in the porous medium, digitized computational grids are obtained from X-ray micro-tomography imaging of real TPS materials. The SPARTA DSMC solver is used for simulations. Effective diffusion coefficients and tortuosity factors are obtained by computing the mean-square displacement of diffusing particles.We first apply the method to compute the tortuosity factors as a function of the Knudsen number for computationally designed materials such as random cylindrical fibers and packed bed of spheres with prescribed porosity. Results are compared to literature values obtained using random walk methods in the rarefied and transitional regime and a finite-volume method for the continuum regime. We then compute tortuosity factors for a real carbon fiber material with a transverse isotropic structure (FiberForm), quantifying differences between through-thickness and in-plain tortuosities at various Knudsen regimes.

Role of positron emission tomography/computed tomography in breast cancer.

PubMed

Bourgeois, Austin C; Warren, Lance A; Chang, Ted T; Embry, Scott; Hudson, Kathleen; Bradley, Yong C

2013-09-01

Although positron emission tomography (PET) imaging may not be used in the diagnosis of breast cancer, the use of PET/computed tomography is imperative in all aspects of breast cancer staging, treatment, and follow-up. PET will continue to be relevant in personalized medicine because accurate tumor status will be even more critical during and after the transition from a generic metabolic agent to receptor imaging. Positron emission mammography is an imaging proposition that may have benefits in lower doses, but its use is limited without new radiopharmaceuticals. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transurethral Ultrasound Diffraction Tomography

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

the covariance matrix was derived. The covariance reduced to that of the X- ray CT under the assumptions of linear operator and real data.[5] The...the covariance matrix in the linear x- ray computed tomography is a special case of the inverse scattering matrix derived in this paper. The matrix was...is derived in Sec. IV, and its relation to that of the linear x- ray computed tomography appears in Sec. V. In Sec. VI, the inverse scattering

Retrospective study of sonographic findings in bone involvement associated with rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy: preliminary results of a case series*

PubMed Central

Nogueira-Barbosa, Marcello H.; Gregio-Junior, Everaldo; Lorenzato, Mario Muller

2015-01-01

Objective The present study was aimed at investigating bone involvement secondary to rotator cuff calcific tendonitis at ultrasonography. Materials and Methods Retrospective study of a case series. The authors reviewed shoulder ultrasonography reports of 141 patients diagnosed with rotator cuff calcific tendonitis, collected from the computer-based data records of their institution over a four-year period. Imaging findings were retrospectively and consensually analyzed by two experienced musculoskeletal radiologists looking for bone involvement associated with calcific tendonitis. Only the cases confirmed by computed tomography were considered for descriptive analysis. Results Sonographic findings of calcific tendinopathy with bone involvement were observed in 7/141 (~ 5%) patients (mean age, 50.9 years; age range, 42-58 years; 42% female). Cortical bone erosion adjacent to tendon calcification was the most common finding, observed in 7/7 cases. Signs of intraosseous migration were found in 3/7 cases, and subcortical cysts in 2/7 cases. The findings were confirmed by computed tomography. Calcifications associated with bone abnormalities showed no acoustic shadowing at ultrasonography, favoring the hypothesis of resorption phase of the disease. Conclusion Preliminary results of the present study suggest that ultrasonography can identify bone abnormalities secondary to rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy, particularly the presence of cortical bone erosion. PMID:26811551

Cone beam computed tomography of plastinated hearts for instruction of radiological anatomy.

PubMed

Chang, Chih-Wei; Atkinson, Gregory; Gandhi, Niket; Farrell, Michael L; Labrash, Steven; Smith, Alice B; Norton, Neil S; Matsui, Takashi; Lozanoff, Scott

2016-09-01

Radiological anatomy education is an important aspect of the medical curriculum. The purpose of this study was to establish and demonstrate the use of plastinated anatomical specimens, specifically human hearts, for use in radiological anatomy education. Four human hearts were processed with routine plastination procedures at room temperature. Specimens were subjected to cone beam computed tomography and a graphics program (ER3D) was applied to generate 3D cardiac models. A comparison was conducted between plastinated hearts and their corresponding computer models based on a list of morphological cardiac features commonly studied in the gross anatomy laboratory. Results showed significant correspondence between plastinations and CBCT-generated 3D models (98 %; p < .01) for external structures and 100 % for internal cardiac features, while 85 % correspondence was achieved between plastinations and 2D CBCT slices. Complete correspondence (100 %) was achieved between key observations on the plastinations and internal radiological findings typically required of medical student. All pathologic features seen on the plastinated hearts were also visualized internally with the CBCT-generated models and 2D slices. These results suggest that CBCT-derived slices and models can be successfully generated from plastinated material and provide accurate representations for radiological anatomy education.

Rotational electrical impedance tomography using electrodes with limited surface coverage provides window for multimodal sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehti-Polojärvi, Mari; Koskela, Olli; Seppänen, Aku; Figueiras, Edite; Hyttinen, Jari

2018-02-01

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is an imaging method that could become a valuable tool in multimodal applications. One challenge in simultaneous multimodal imaging is that typically the EIT electrodes cover a large portion of the object surface. This paper investigates the feasibility of rotational EIT (rEIT) in applications where electrodes cover only a limited angle of the surface of the object. In the studied rEIT, the object is rotated a full 360° during a set of measurements to increase the information content of the data. We call this approach limited angle full revolution rEIT (LAFR-rEIT). We test LAFR-rEIT setups in two-dimensional geometries with computational and experimental data. We use up to 256 rotational measurement positions, which requires a new way to solve the forward and inverse problem of rEIT. For this, we provide a modification, available for EIDORS, in the supplementary material. The computational results demonstrate that LAFR-rEIT with eight electrodes produce the same image quality as conventional 16-electrode rEIT, when data from an adequate number of rotational measurement positions are used. Both computational and experimental results indicate that the novel LAFR-rEIT provides good EIT with setups with limited surface coverage and a small number of electrodes.

Optimal iodine staining of cardiac tissue for X-ray computed tomography.

PubMed

Butters, Timothy D; Castro, Simon J; Lowe, Tristan; Zhang, Yanmin; Lei, Ming; Withers, Philip J; Zhang, Henggui

2014-01-01

X-ray computed tomography (XCT) has been shown to be an effective imaging technique for a variety of materials. Due to the relatively low differential attenuation of X-rays in biological tissue, a high density contrast agent is often required to obtain optimal contrast. The contrast agent, iodine potassium iodide ([Formula: see text]), has been used in several biological studies to augment the use of XCT scanning. Recently I2KI was used in XCT scans of animal hearts to study cardiac structure and to generate 3D anatomical computer models. However, to date there has been no thorough study into the optimal use of I2KI as a contrast agent in cardiac muscle with respect to the staining times required, which has been shown to impact significantly upon the quality of results. In this study we address this issue by systematically scanning samples at various stages of the staining process. To achieve this, mouse hearts were stained for up to 58 hours and scanned at regular intervals of 6-7 hours throughout this process. Optimal staining was found to depend upon the thickness of the tissue; a simple empirical exponential relationship was derived to allow calculation of the required staining time for cardiac samples of an arbitrary size.

APPLICATION OF COMPUTER AIDED TOMOGRAPHY (CAT) TO THE STUDY OF MARINE BENTIC COMMUNITIES

EPA Science Inventory

Sediment cores were imaged using a Computer-Aided Tomography (CT) scanner at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States. Procedures were developed, using the attenuation of X-rays, to differentiate between sediment and the water contained in macrobenthic...

How to interpret computed tomography of the lumbar spine

PubMed Central

Mobasheri, R; Das, T; Vaidya, S; Mallik, S; El-Hussainy, M; Casey, A

2014-01-01

Computed tomography (CT) of the spine has remained an important tool in the investigation of spinal pathology. This article helps to explain the basics of CT of the lumbar spine to allow the clinician better use of this diagnostic tool. PMID:25245727

Clinical and computed tomography features of secondary renal hyperparathyroidism

PubMed Central

Vanbrugghe, Benoît; Blond, Laurent; Carioto, Lisa; Carmel, Eric Norman; Nadeau, Marie-Eve

2011-01-01

An atypical case of secondary renal hyperparathyroidism was diagnosed in a 9-year-old miniature schnauzer after a skull computed tomography (CT) showed the presence of 2 bilateral and symmetrical soft tissue maxillary masses, and osteopenia of the skull. PMID:21532826

Segmentation and quantification of materials with energy discriminating computed tomography: A phantom study

PubMed Central

Le, Huy Q.; Molloi, Sabee

2011-01-01

Purpose: To experimentally investigate whether a computed tomography (CT) system based on CdZnTe (CZT) detectors in conjunction with a least-squares parameter estimation technique can be used to decompose four different materials. Methods: The material decomposition process was divided into a segmentation task and a quantification task. A least-squares minimization algorithm was used to decompose materials with five measurements of the energy dependent linear attenuation coefficients. A small field-of-view energy discriminating CT system was built. The CT system consisted of an x-ray tube, a rotational stage, and an array of CZT detectors. The CZT array was composed of 64 pixels, each of which is 0.8×0.8×3 mm. Images were acquired at 80 kVp in fluoroscopic mode at 50 ms per frame. The detector resolved the x-ray spectrum into energy bins of 22–32, 33–39, 40–46, 47–56, and 57–80 keV. Four phantoms were constructed from polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene, polyoxymethylene, hydroxyapatite, and iodine. Three phantoms were composed of three materials with embedded hydroxyapatite (50, 150, 250, and 350 mg∕ml) and iodine (4, 8, 12, and 16 mg∕ml) contrast elements. One phantom was composed of four materials with embedded hydroxyapatite (150 and 350 mg∕ml) and iodine (8 and 16 mg∕ml). Calibrations consisted of PMMA phantoms with either hydroxyapatite (100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mg∕ml) or iodine (5, 15, 25, 35, and 45 mg∕ml) embedded. Filtered backprojection and a ramp filter were used to reconstruct images from each energy bin. Material segmentation and quantification were performed and compared between different phantoms. Results: All phantoms were decomposed accurately, but some voxels in the base material regions were incorrectly identified. Average quantification errors of hydroxyapatite∕iodine were 9.26∕7.13%, 7.73∕5.58%, and 12.93∕8.23% for the three-material PMMA, polyethylene, and polyoxymethylene phantoms, respectively. The average errors for the four-material phantom were 15.62% and 2.76% for hydroxyapatite and iodine, respectively. Conclusions: The calibrated least-squares minimization technique of decomposition performed well in breast imaging tasks with an energy resolving detector. This method can provide material basis images containing concentrations of the relevant materials that can potentially be valuable in the diagnostic process. PMID:21361191

Peri-implant assessment via cone beam computed tomography and digital periapical radiography: an ex vivo study.

PubMed

Silveira-Neto, Nicolau; Flores, Mateus Ericson; De Carli, João Paulo; Costa, Max Dória; Matos, Felipe de Souza; Paranhos, Luiz Renato; Linden, Maria Salete Sandini

2017-11-01

This research evaluated detail registration in peri-implant bone using two different cone beam computer tomography systems and a digital periapical radiograph. Three different image acquisition protocols were established for each cone beam computer tomography apparatus, and three clinical situations were simulated in an ex vivo fresh pig mandible: buccal bone defect, peri-implant bone defect, and bone contact. Data were subjected to two analyses: quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative analyses involved a comparison of real specimen measures using a digital caliper in three regions of the preserved buccal bone - A, B and E (control group) - to cone beam computer tomography images obtained with different protocols (kp1, kp2, kp3, ip1, ip2, and ip3). In the qualitative analyses, the ability to register peri-implant details via tomography and digital periapical radiography was verified, as indicated by twelve evaluators. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). The quantitative assessment showed means statistically equal to those of the control group under the following conditions: buccal bone defect B and E with kp1 and ip1, peri-implant bone defect E with kp2 and kp3, and bone contact A with kp1, kp2, kp3, and ip2. Qualitatively, only bone contacts were significantly different among the assessments, and the p3 results differed from the p1 and p2 results. The other results were statistically equivalent. The registration of peri-implant details was influenced by the image acquisition protocol, although metal artifacts were produced in all situations. The evaluators preferred the Kodak 9000 3D cone beam computer tomography in most cases. The evaluators identified buccal bone defects better with cone beam computer tomography and identified peri-implant bone defects better with digital periapical radiography.

Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography Imaging in a Rabbit Model of Emphysema Reveals Ongoing Apoptosis In Vivo

PubMed Central

Goldklang, Monica P.; Tekabe, Yared; Zelonina, Tina; Trischler, Jordis; Xiao, Rui; Stearns, Kyle; Romanov, Alexander; Muzio, Valeria; Shiomi, Takayuki; Johnson, Lynne L.

2016-01-01

Evaluation of lung disease is limited by the inability to visualize ongoing pathological processes. Molecular imaging that targets cellular processes related to disease pathogenesis has the potential to assess disease activity over time to allow intervention before lung destruction. Because apoptosis is a critical component of lung damage in emphysema, a functional imaging approach was taken to determine if targeting apoptosis in a smoke exposure model would allow the quantification of early lung damage in vivo. Rabbits were exposed to cigarette smoke for 4 or 16 weeks and underwent single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography scanning using technetium-99m–rhAnnexin V-128. Imaging results were correlated with ex vivo tissue analysis to validate the presence of lung destruction and apoptosis. Lung computed tomography scans of long-term smoke–exposed rabbits exhibit anatomical similarities to human emphysema, with increased lung volumes compared with controls. Morphometry on lung tissue confirmed increased mean linear intercept and destructive index at 16 weeks of smoke exposure and compliance measurements documented physiological changes of emphysema. Tissue and lavage analysis displayed the hallmarks of smoke exposure, including increased tissue cellularity and protease activity. Technetium-99m–rhAnnexin V-128 single-photon emission computed tomography signal was increased after smoke exposure at 4 and 16 weeks, with confirmation of increased apoptosis through terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining and increased tissue neutral sphingomyelinase activity in the tissue. These studies not only describe a novel emphysema model for use with future therapeutic applications, but, most importantly, also characterize a promising imaging modality that identifies ongoing destructive cellular processes within the lung. PMID:27483341

Direct Endoscopic Intratumoral Injection of Onyx for the Preoperative Embolization of a Recurrent Juvenile Nasal Angiofibroma

PubMed Central

Hira, A.; Chao, K.

2011-01-01

Summary Percutaneous injection of embolization material within head and neck tumors is being described as an alternative or adjunct to transarterial embolization. Access in these reports is by computed tomography (CT) guidance, which is cumbersome given the need to transport the patient from the CT scanner to angiography suite. We describe a case of direct percutaneous onyx embolization of juvenile nasal angiofibroma following endoscopic access in the angiography suite including self-sustained onyx combustion during surgical electrocautery. PMID:22192553

Correlation of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and clinical outcome in acute carbon monoxide poisoning.

PubMed

Ozcan, Namik; Ozcam, Giray; Kosar, Pinar; Ozcan, Ayse; Basar, Hulya; Kaymak, Cetin

2016-01-01

Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas for humans and is still a silent killer in both developed and developing countries. The aim of this case series was to evaluate early radiological images as a predictor of subsequent neuropsychological sequelae, following carbon monoxide poisoning. After carbon monoxide exposure, early computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging findings of a 52-year-old woman showed bilateral lesions in the globus pallidus. This patient was discharged and followed for 90 days. The patient recovered without any neurological sequela. In a 58-year-old woman exposed to carbon monoxide, computed tomography showed lesions in bilateral globus pallidus and periventricular white matter. Early magnetic resonance imaging revealed changes similar to that like in early tomography images. The patient recovered and was discharged from hospital. On the 27th day of exposure, the patient developed disorientation and memory impairment. Late magnetic resonance imaging showed diffuse hyperintensity in the cerebral white matter. White matter lesions which progress to demyelination and end up in neuropsychological sequelae cannot always be diagnosed by early computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in carbon monoxide poisoning. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

X-ray diffraction tomography of polycrystalline materials: present and future (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Stuart R.; Almer, Jonathan D.; Birkedal, Henrik

2016-10-01

Scattered x-radiation can be used for computed tomographic reconstruction of the distribution of crystallographic phases within the interior of specimens, and diffraction patterns can be measured for each volume element (voxel) within a reconstructed slice. This modality has been applied to systems as diverse as mineralized tissues and inorganic composites. Use of high energy x-rays (E < 40 keV) offers advantages including the ability to study volumes deep with specimens and to sample large ranges of reciprocal space, i.e., many reflections. The bases of diffraction tomography are reviewed, and the power of the technique is illustrated by the results obtained for specimens containing: a) different materials (SiC/Al composite), b) different polytypes (calcite/aragonite in a bivalve attachment system); c) mixtures of nanocrystalline and amorphous phases; d) a single phase, but volumes with different lattice parameters (hydroxyapatite, hAp, the mineral in bone and tooth); e) a single phase containing a spatial distribution of crystallographic texture (bone); a single phase with a spatial distribution of strains produced by in situ loading (bone). Finally, challenges and future directions are discussed.

Radiation-Induced Liver Injury Mimicking Metastatic Disease in a Patient With Esophageal Cancer: Correlation of Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography With Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Literature Review.

PubMed

Rabe, Tiffany M; Yokoo, Takeshi; Meyer, Jeffrey; Kernstine, Kemp H; Wang, David; Khatri, Gaurav

2016-01-01

Post-radiation therapy evaluation of distal esophageal cancers with positron emission tomography/computed tomography can be problematic. Differentiation of recurrent neoplasm from postradiation changes is difficult in areas of fluorodeoxyglucose avidity in adjacent, incidentally irradiated organs. Few studies have described the magnetic resonance imaging appearance of radiation-induced hepatic injury. We report a case of focal radiation-induced liver injury with a new focus of fluorodeoxyglucose uptake on posttreatment positron emission tomography as well as masslike enhancement and signal abnormality on magnetic resonance imaging, thus mimicking new liver metastasis. Correlation with radiation planning images suggested the correct diagnosis, which was confirmed on follow-up imaging.

Material Separation Using Dual-Energy CT: Current and Emerging Applications.

PubMed

Patino, Manuel; Prochowski, Andrea; Agrawal, Mukta D; Simeone, Frank J; Gupta, Rajiv; Hahn, Peter F; Sahani, Dushyant V

2016-01-01

Dual-energy (DE) computed tomography (CT) offers the opportunity to generate material-specific images on the basis of the atomic number Z and the unique mass attenuation coefficient of a particular material at different x-ray energies. Material-specific images provide qualitative and quantitative information about tissue composition and contrast media distribution. The most significant contribution of DE CT-based material characterization comes from the capability to assess iodine distribution through the creation of an image that exclusively shows iodine. These iodine-specific images increase tissue contrast and amplify subtle differences in attenuation between normal and abnormal tissues, improving lesion detection and characterization in the abdomen. In addition, DE CT enables computational removal of iodine influence from a CT image, generating virtual noncontrast images. Several additional materials, including calcium, fat, and uric acid, can be separated, permitting imaging assessment of metabolic imbalances, elemental deficiencies, and abnormal deposition of materials within tissues. The ability to obtain material-specific images from a single, contrast-enhanced CT acquisition can complement the anatomic knowledge with functional information, and may be used to reduce the radiation dose by decreasing the number of phases in a multiphasic CT examination. DE CT also enables generation of energy-specific and virtual monochromatic images. Clinical applications of DE CT leverage both material-specific images and virtual monochromatic images to expand the current role of CT and overcome several limitations of single-energy CT. (©)RSNA, 2016.

A multiresolution approach to iterative reconstruction algorithms in X-ray computed tomography.

PubMed

De Witte, Yoni; Vlassenbroeck, Jelle; Van Hoorebeke, Luc

2010-09-01

In computed tomography, the application of iterative reconstruction methods in practical situations is impeded by their high computational demands. Especially in high resolution X-ray computed tomography, where reconstruction volumes contain a high number of volume elements (several giga voxels), this computational burden prevents their actual breakthrough. Besides the large amount of calculations, iterative algorithms require the entire volume to be kept in memory during reconstruction, which quickly becomes cumbersome for large data sets. To overcome this obstacle, we present a novel multiresolution reconstruction, which greatly reduces the required amount of memory without significantly affecting the reconstructed image quality. It is shown that, combined with an efficient implementation on a graphical processing unit, the multiresolution approach enables the application of iterative algorithms in the reconstruction of large volumes at an acceptable speed using only limited resources.

X-ray Computed Tomography.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Michael, Greg

2001-01-01

Describes computed tomography (CT), a medical imaging technique that produces images of transaxial planes through the human body. A CT image is reconstructed mathematically from a large number of one-dimensional projections of a plane. The technique is used in radiological examinations and radiotherapy treatment planning. (Author/MM)

The Power of Computer-aided Tomography to Investigate Marine Benthic Communities

EPA Science Inventory

Utilization of Computer-aided-Tomography (CT) technology is a powerful tool to investigate benthic communities in aquatic systems. In this presentation, we will attempt to summarize our 15 years of experience in developing specific CT methods and applications to marine benthic co...

Three-dimensional evaluation of human jaw bone microarchitecture: correlation between the microarchitectural parameters of cone beam computed tomography and micro-computer tomography.

PubMed

Kim, Jo-Eun; Yi, Won-Jin; Heo, Min-Suk; Lee, Sam-Sun; Choi, Soon-Chul; Huh, Kyung-Hoe

2015-12-01

To evaluate the potential feasibility of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the assessment of trabecular bone microarchitecture. Sixty-eight specimens from four pairs of human jaw were scanned using both micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) of 19.37-μm voxel size and CBCT of 100-μm voxel size. The correlation of 3-dimensional parameters between CBCT and micro-CT was evaluated. All parameters, except bone-specific surface and trabecular thickness, showed linear correlations between the 2 imaging modalities (P < .05). Among the parameters, bone volume, percent bone volume, trabecular separation, and degree of anisotropy (DA) of CBCT images showed strong correlations with those of micro-CT images. DA showed the strongest correlation (r = 0.693). Most microarchitectural parameters from CBCT were correlated with those from micro-CT. Some microarchitectural parameters, especially DA, could be used as strong predictors of bone quality in the human jaw. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of a continuous-rotation, high-speed scanning protocol for micro-computed tomography.

PubMed

Kerl, Hans Ulrich; Isaza, Cristina T; Boll, Hanne; Schambach, Sebastian J; Nolte, Ingo S; Groden, Christoph; Brockmann, Marc A

2011-01-01

Micro-computed tomography is used frequently in preclinical in vivo research. Limiting factors are radiation dose and long scan times. The purpose of the study was to compare a standard step-and-shoot to a continuous-rotation, high-speed scanning protocol. Micro-computed tomography of a lead grid phantom and a rat femur was performed using a step-and-shoot and a continuous-rotation protocol. Detail discriminability and image quality were assessed by 3 radiologists. The signal-to-noise ratio and the modulation transfer function were calculated, and volumetric analyses of the femur were performed. The radiation dose of the scan protocols was measured using thermoluminescence dosimeters. The 40-second continuous-rotation protocol allowed a detail discriminability comparable to the step-and-shoot protocol at significantly lower radiation doses. No marked differences in volumetric or qualitative analyses were observed. Continuous-rotation micro-computed tomography significantly reduces scanning time and radiation dose without relevantly reducing image quality compared with a normal step-and-shoot protocol.

Management of Liver Cancer Argon-helium Knife Therapy with Functional Computer Tomography Perfusion Imaging.

PubMed

Wang, Hongbo; Shu, Shengjie; Li, Jinping; Jiang, Huijie

2016-02-01

The objective of this study was to observe the change in blood perfusion of liver cancer following argon-helium knife treatment with functional computer tomography perfusion imaging. Twenty-seven patients with primary liver cancer treated with argon-helium knife and were included in this study. Plain computer tomography (CT) and computer tomography perfusion (CTP) imaging were conducted in all patients before and after treatment. Perfusion parameters including blood flows, blood volume, hepatic artery perfusion fraction, hepatic artery perfusion, and hepatic portal venous perfusion were used for evaluating therapeutic effect. All parameters in liver cancer were significantly decreased after argon-helium knife treatment (p < 0.05 to all). Significant decrease in hepatic artery perfusion was also observed in pericancerous liver tissue, but other parameters kept constant. CT perfusion imaging is able to detect decrease in blood perfusion of liver cancer post-argon-helium knife therapy. Therefore, CTP imaging would play an important role for liver cancer management followed argon-helium knife therapy. © The Author(s) 2014.

Characterization of normal feline renal vascular anatomy with dual-phase CT angiography.

PubMed

Cáceres, Ana V; Zwingenberger, Allison L; Aronson, Lillian R; Mai, Wilfried

2008-01-01

Helical computed tomography angiography was used to evaluate the renal vascular anatomy of potential feline renal donors. One hundred and fourteen computed tomography angiograms were reviewed. The vessels were characterized as single without bifurcation, single with bifurcation, double, or triple. Multiplicity was most commonly seen for the right renal vein (45/114 vs. 3/114 multiple left renal veins, 0/114 multiple right renal arteries, and 8/114 multiple left renal arteries). The right kidney was 13.3 times more likely than the left to have multiple renal veins. Additional vascular variants included double caudal vena cava and an accessory renal artery. For the left kidney, surgery and computed tomography angiography findings were in agreement in 92% of 74 cats. For the right kidney, surgery and computed tomography angiography findings were in agreement in 6/6 cats. Our findings of renal vascular anatomy variations in cats were similar to previous reports in humans. Identifying and recognizing the pattern of distribution of these vessels is important when performing renal transplantation.

Stress Computed Tomography Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: A New Topic in Cardiology.

PubMed

Seitun, Sara; Castiglione Morelli, Margherita; Budaj, Irilda; Boccalini, Sara; Galletto Pregliasco, Athena; Valbusa, Alberto; Cademartiri, Filippo; Ferro, Carlo

2016-02-01

Since its introduction about 15 years ago, coronary computed tomography angiography has become today the most accurate clinical instrument for noninvasive assessment of coronary atherosclerosis. Important technical developments have led to a continuous stream of new clinical applications together with a significant reduction in radiation dose exposure. Latest generation computed tomography scanners (≥ 64 slices) allow the possibility of performing static or dynamic perfusion imaging during stress by using coronary vasodilator agents (adenosine, dipyridamole, or regadenoson), combining both functional and anatomical information in the same examination. In this article, the emerging role and state-of-the-art of myocardial computed tomography perfusion imaging are reviewed and are illustrated by clinical cases from our experience with a second-generation dual-source 128-slice scanner (Somatom Definition Flash, Siemens; Erlangen, Germany). Technical aspects, data analysis, diagnostic accuracy, radiation dose and future prospects are reviewed. Copyright © 2015 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

X-Ray Micro-Tomography Applied to Nasa's Materials Research: Heat Shields, Parachutes and Asteroids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Panerai, Francesco; Borner, Arnaud; Ferguson, Joseph C.; Mansour, Nagi N.; Stern, Eric C.; Barnard, Harold S.; Macdowell, Alastair A.; Parkinson, Dilworth Y.

2017-01-01

X-ray micro-tomography is used to support the research on materials carried out at NASA Ames Research Center. The technique is applied to a variety of applications, including the ability to characterize heat shield materials for planetary entry, to study the Earth- impacting asteroids, and to improve broadcloths of spacecraft parachutes. From micro-tomography images, relevant morphological and transport properties are determined and validated against experimental data.

Fatal Road Traffic Vehicle Collisions With Pedestrian Victims: Forensic Postmortem Computed Tomography and Autopsy Correlation.

PubMed

Chatzaraki, Vasiliki; Thali, Michael J; Ampanozi, Garyfalia; Schweitzer, Wolf

2018-06-01

Fatal car-to-pedestrian collisions regularly appear in the forensic pathologist's routine, particularly in places of extended urbanization. Postmortem computed tomography has gained an exceptional role to supplement autopsy worldwide, giving information that is supplementary or complimentary to conventional autopsy. In this retrospective study, a total number of 320 findings in a series of 21 pedestrians fatally hit by cars and trucks of both postmortem computed tomography and autopsy were correlated. According to our results, it is best to combine both methods to give well-founded answers to questions pertaining to both collision reconstruction and cause of death.

[Axial computer tomography of the neurocranium (author's transl)].

PubMed

Stöppler, L

1977-05-27

Computer tomography (CT), a new radiographic examination technique, is very highly efficient, for it has high informative content with little stress for the patient. In contrast to the conventional X-ray technology, CT succeeds, by direct presentation of the structure of the soft parts, in obtaining information which comes close to that of macroscopic neuropathology. The capacity and limitations of the method at the present stage of development are reported. Computer tomography cannot displace conventional neuroradiological methods of investigation, although it is rightly presented as a screening method and helps towards selective use. Indications, technical integration and handling of CT are prerequisites for the exhaustive benefit of the excellent new technique.

PATIENT STUDY OF IN VIVO VERIFICATION OF BEAM DELIVERY AND RANGE, USING POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY AND COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IMAGING AFTER PROTON THERAPY

PubMed Central

Parodi, Katia; Paganetti, Harald; Shih, Helen A.; Michaud, Susan; Loeffler, Jay S.; Delaney, Thomas F.; Liebsch, Norbert J.; Munzenrider, John E.; Fischman, Alan J.; Knopf, Antje; Bortfeld, Thomas

2007-01-01

Purpose To investigate the feasibility and value of positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) for treatment verification after proton radiotherapy. Methods and Materials This study included 9 patients with tumors in the cranial base, spine, orbit, and eye. Total doses of 1.8–3 GyE and 10 GyE (for an ocular melanoma) per fraction were delivered in 1 or 2 fields. Imaging was performed with a commercial PET/CT scanner for 30 min, starting within 20 min after treatment. The same treatment immobilization device was used during imaging for all but 2 patients. Measured PET/CT images were coregistered to the planning CT and compared with the corresponding PET expectation, obtained from CT-based Monte Carlo calculations complemented by functional information. For the ocular case, treatment position was approximately replicated, and spatial correlation was deduced from reference clips visible in both the planning radiographs and imaging CT. Here, the expected PET image was obtained from an analytical model. Results Good spatial correlation and quantitative agreement within 30% were found between the measured and expected activity. For head-and-neck patients, the beam range could be verified with an accuracy of 1–2 mm in well-coregistered bony structures. Low spine and eye sites indicated the need for better fixation and coregistration methods. An analysis of activity decay revealed as tissue-effective half-lives of 800–1,150 s. Conclusions This study demonstrates the feasibility of postradiation PET/CT for in vivo treatment verification. It also indicates some technological and methodological improvements needed for optimal clinical application. PMID:17544003

The micro-mechanics of strength, durability and damage tolerance in composites: new insights from high resolution computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spearing, S. Mark; Sinclair, Ian

2016-07-01

Recent work, led by the authors, on impact damage resistance, particle toughening and tensile fibre failure is reviewed in order to illustrate the use of high-resolution X-ray tomography to observe and quantify damage mechanisms in carbon fibre composite laminates. Using synchrotron and micro-focus X-ray sources resolutions of less than 1 μm have been routinely achieved. This enables individual broken fibres and the micromechanisms of particle toughening to be observed and quantified. The data for fibre failure, cluster formation and overall tensile strength are compared with model predictions. This allows strategies for future model development to be identified. The overall implications for using such high-resolution 3-D measurements to inform a “data-rich mechanics” approach to materials evaluation and modeling is discussed.

Ambient noise adjoint tomography for a linear array in North China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, C.; Yao, H.; Liu, Q.; Yuan, Y. O.; Zhang, P.; Feng, J.; Fang, L.

2017-12-01

Ambient noise tomography based on dispersion data and ray theory has been widely utilized for imaging crustal structures. In order to improve the inversion accuracy, ambient noise tomography based on the 3D adjoint approach or full waveform inversion has been developed recently, however, the computational cost is tremendous. In this study we present 2D ambient noise adjoint tomography for a linear array in north China with significant computational efficiency compared to 3D ambient noise adjoint tomography. During the preprocessing, we first convert the observed data in 3D media, i.e., surface-wave empirical Green's functions (EGFs) from ambient noise cross-correlation, to the reconstructed EGFs in 2D media using a 3D/2D transformation scheme. Different from the conventional steps of measuring phase dispersion, the 2D adjoint tomography refines 2D shear wave speeds along the profile directly from the reconstructed Rayleigh wave EGFs in the period band 6-35s. With the 2D initial model extracted from the 3D model from traditional ambient noise tomography, adjoint tomography updates the model by minimizing the frequency-dependent Rayleigh wave traveltime misfits between the reconstructed EGFs and synthetic Green function (SGFs) in 2D media generated by the spectral-element method (SEM), with a preconditioned conjugate gradient method. The multitaper traveltime difference measurement is applied in four period bands during the inversion: 20-35s, 15-30s, 10-20s and 6-15s. The recovered model shows more detailed crustal structures with pronounced low velocity anomaly in the mid-lower crust beneath the junction of Taihang Mountains and Yin-Yan Mountains compared with the initial model. This low velocity structure may imply the possible intense crust-mantle interactions, probably associated with the magmatic underplating during the Mesozoic to Cenozoic evolution of the region. To our knowledge, it's first time that ambient noise adjoint tomography is implemented in 2D media. Considering the intensive computational cost and storage of 3D adjoint tomography, this 2D ambient noise adjoint tomography has potential advantages to get high-resolution 2D crustal structures with limited computational resource.

X-Ray Radiography of Gas Turbine Ceramics.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-10-20

Microfocus X-ray equipment. 1a4ihe definition of equipment concepts for a computer assisted tomography ( CAT ) system; and 4ffthe development of a CAT ...were obtained from these test coupons using Microfocus X-ray and image en- hancement techniques. A Computer Assisted Tomography ( CAT ) design concept...monitor. Computer reconstruction algorithms were investigated with respect to CAT and a preferred approach was determined. An appropriate CAT algorithm

Mapping soil deformation around plant roots using in vivo 4D X-ray Computed Tomography and Digital Volume Correlation.

PubMed

Keyes, S D; Gillard, F; Soper, N; Mavrogordato, M N; Sinclair, I; Roose, T

2016-06-14

The mechanical impedance of soils inhibits the growth of plant roots, often being the most significant physical limitation to root system development. Non-invasive imaging techniques have recently been used to investigate the development of root system architecture over time, but the relationship with soil deformation is usually neglected. Correlative mapping approaches parameterised using 2D and 3D image data have recently gained prominence for quantifying physical deformation in composite materials including fibre-reinforced polymers and trabecular bone. Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and Digital Volume Correlation (DVC) are computational techniques which use the inherent material texture of surfaces and volumes, captured using imaging techniques, to map full-field deformation components in samples during physical loading. Here we develop an experimental assay and methodology for four-dimensional, in vivo X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT) and apply a Digital Volume Correlation (DVC) approach to the data to quantify deformation. The method is validated for a field-derived soil under conditions of uniaxial compression, and a calibration study is used to quantify thresholds of displacement and strain measurement. The validated and calibrated approach is then demonstrated for an in vivo test case in which an extending maize root in field-derived soil was imaged hourly using XCT over a growth period of 19h. This allowed full-field soil deformation data and 3D root tip dynamics to be quantified in parallel for the first time. This fusion of methods paves the way for comparative studies of contrasting soils and plant genotypes, improving our understanding of the fundamental mechanical processes which influence root system development. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Simulation-based artifact correction (SBAC) for metrological computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maier, Joscha; Leinweber, Carsten; Sawall, Stefan; Stoschus, Henning; Ballach, Frederic; Müller, Tobias; Hammer, Michael; Christoph, Ralf; Kachelrieß, Marc

2017-06-01

Computed tomography (CT) is a valuable tool for the metrolocical assessment of industrial components. However, the application of CT to the investigation of highly attenuating objects or multi-material components is often restricted by the presence of CT artifacts caused by beam hardening, x-ray scatter, off-focal radiation, partial volume effects or the cone-beam reconstruction itself. In order to overcome this limitation, this paper proposes an approach to calculate a correction term that compensates for the contribution of artifacts and thus enables an appropriate assessment of these components using CT. Therefore, we make use of computer simulations of the CT measurement process. Based on an appropriate model of the object, e.g. an initial reconstruction or a CAD model, two simulations are carried out. One simulation considers all physical effects that cause artifacts using dedicated analytic methods as well as Monte Carlo-based models. The other one represents an ideal CT measurement i.e. a measurement in parallel beam geometry with a monochromatic, point-like x-ray source and no x-ray scattering. Thus, the difference between these simulations is an estimate for the present artifacts and can be used to correct the acquired projection data or the corresponding CT reconstruction, respectively. The performance of the proposed approach is evaluated using simulated as well as measured data of single and multi-material components. Our approach yields CT reconstructions that are nearly free of artifacts and thereby clearly outperforms commonly used artifact reduction algorithms in terms of image quality. A comparison against tactile reference measurements demonstrates the ability of the proposed approach to increase the accuracy of the metrological assessment significantly.

RADIAL COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY OF AIR CONTAMINANTS USING OPTICAL REMOTE SENSING

EPA Science Inventory

The paper describes the application of an optical remote-sensing (ORS) system to map air contaminants and locate fugitive emissions. Many ORD systems may utilize radial non-overlapping beam geometry and a computed tomography (CT) algorithm to map the concentrations in a plane. In...

Micro computed tomography (CT) scanned anatomical gateway to insect pest bioinformatics

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

An international collaboration to establish an interactive Digital Video Library for a Systems Biology Approach to study the Asian citrus Psyllid and psyllid genomics/proteomics interactions is demonstrated. Advances in micro-CT, digital computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to make detailed pic...

21 CFR 892.1200 - Emission computed tomography system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Emission computed tomography system. 892.1200 Section 892.1200 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... analysis and display equipment, patient and equipment supports, radionuclide anatomical markers, component...

21 CFR 892.1200 - Emission computed tomography system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Emission computed tomography system. 892.1200 Section 892.1200 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... analysis and display equipment, patient and equipment supports, radionuclide anatomical markers, component...

21 CFR 892.1200 - Emission computed tomography system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Emission computed tomography system. 892.1200 Section 892.1200 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... analysis and display equipment, patient and equipment supports, radionuclide anatomical markers, component...

21 CFR 892.1200 - Emission computed tomography system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Emission computed tomography system. 892.1200 Section 892.1200 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... analysis and display equipment, patient and equipment supports, radionuclide anatomical markers, component...

21 CFR 892.1200 - Emission computed tomography system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Emission computed tomography system. 892.1200 Section 892.1200 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... analysis and display equipment, patient and equipment supports, radionuclide anatomical markers, component...

Sensitivity of Hyperdense Basilar Artery Sign on Non-Enhanced Computed Tomography

PubMed Central

Ernst, Marielle; Romero, Javier M.; Buhk, Jan-Hendrik; Cheng, Bastian; Herrmann, Jochen; Fiehler, Jens; Groth, Michael

2015-01-01

Purpose The hyperdense basilar artery sign (HBAS) is an indicator of vessel occlusion on non contrast-enhanced computer tomography (NECT) in acute stroke patients. Since basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is associated with a high mortality and morbidity, its early detection is of great clinical value. We sought to analyze the influence of density measurement as well as a normalized ratio of Hounsfield unit/hematocrit (HU/Hct) ratio on the detection of BAO on NECT in patients with suspected BAO. Materials and Methods 102 patients with clinically suspected BAO were examined with NECT followed immediately by Multidetector computed tomography Angiography. Two observers independently analyzed the images regarding the presence or absence of HBAS on NECT and performed HU measurements in the basilar artery. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to determine the optimal density threshold for BAO using attenuation measurements or HU/Hct ratio. Results Sensitivity of visual detection of the HBAS on NECT was relatively low 81% (95%-CI, 54–95%) while specificity was high 91% (95%-CI, 82–96%). The highest sensitivity was achieved by the combination of visual assessment and additional quantitative attenuation measurements applying a cut-off value of 46.5 HU with 94% sensitivity and 81% specificity for BAO. A HU/Hct ratio >1.32 revealed sensitivity of 88% (95%-CI, 60–98%) and specificity of 84% (95%-CI, 74–90%). Conclusion In patients with clinically suspected acute BAO the combination of visual assessment and additional attenuation measurement with a cut-off value of 46.5 HU is a reliable approach with high sensitivity in the detection of BAO on NECT. PMID:26479718

Pilot Study of Low-Dose Nonenhanced Computed Tomography With Iterative Reconstruction for Diagnosis of Urinary Stones

PubMed Central

Park, Sang Ho; Moon, Young Tae; Myung, Soon Chul; Kim, Tae Hyoung; Chang, In Ho; Kwon, Jong Kyou

2014-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for detecting urinary stones with the use of an iterative reconstruction technique for reducing radiation dose and image noise. Materials and Methods A total of 101 stones from 69 patients who underwent both conventional nonenhanced computed tomography (CCT) and LDCT were analyzed. Interpretations were made of the two scans according to stone characteristics (size, volume, location, Hounsfield unit [HU], and skin-to-stone distance [SSD]) and radiation dose by dose-length product (DLP), effective dose (ED), and image noise. Diagnostic performance for detecting urinary stones was assessed by statistical evaluation. Results No statistical differences were found in stone characteristics between the two scans. The average DLP and ED were 384.60±132.15 mGy and 5.77±1.98 mSv in CCT and 90.08±31.80 mGy and 1.34±0.48 mSv in LDCT, respectively. The dose reduction rate of LDCT was nearly 77% for both DLP and ED (p<0.01). The mean objective noise (standard deviation) from three different areas was 23.0±2.5 in CCT and 29.2±3.1 in LDCT with a significant difference (p<0.05); the slight increase was 21.2%. For stones located throughout the kidney and ureter, the sensitivity and specificity of LDCT remained 96.0% and 100%, with positive and negative predictive values of 100% and 96.2%, respectively. Conclusions LDCT showed significant radiation reduction while maintaining high image quality. It is an attractive option in the diagnosis of urinary stones. PMID:25237459

Potential advantage of studying the lymphatic drainage by sentinel node technique and SPECT-CT image fusion for pelvic irradiation of prostate cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krengli, Marco; Ballare, Andrea; Cannillo, Barbara

2006-11-15

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the in vivo drainage of lymphatic spread by using the sentinel node (SN) technique and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)-computed tomography (CT) image fusion, and to analyze the impact of such information on conformal pelvic irradiation. Methods and Materials: Twenty-three prostate cancer patients, candidates for radical prostatectomy already included in a trial studying the SN technique, were enrolled. CT and SPECT images were obtained after intraprostate injection of 115 MBq of {sup 99m}Tc-nanocolloid, allowing identification of SN and other pelvic lymph nodes. Target and nontarget structures, including lymph nodes identified by SPECT, were drawnmore » on SPECT-CT fusion images. A three-dimensional conformal treatment plan was performed for each patient. Results: Single-photon emission computed tomography lymph nodal uptake was detected in 20 of 23 cases (87%). The SN was inside the pelvic clinical target volume (CTV{sub 2}) in 16 of 20 cases (80%) and received no less than the prescribed dose in 17 of 20 cases (85%). The most frequent locations of SN outside the CTV{sub 2} were the common iliac and presacral lymph nodes. Sixteen of the 32 other lymph nodes (50%) identified by SPECT were found outside the CTV{sub 2}. Overall, the SN and other intrapelvic lymph nodes identified by SPECT were not included in the CTV{sub 2} in 5 of 20 (25%) patients. Conclusions: The study of lymphatic drainage can contribute to a better knowledge of the in vivo potential pattern of lymph node metastasis in prostate cancer and can lead to a modification of treatment volume with consequent optimization of pelvic irradiation.« less

Changes in entrance surface dose in relation to the location of shielding material in chest computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Y. M.; Cho, J. H.; Kim, S. C.

2015-07-01

This study examined the effects of entrance surface dose (ESD) on the abdomen and pelvis of the patient when undergoing chest computed tomography (CT) procedure, and evaluated the effects of ESD reduction depending on the location of radiation shield. For CT scanner, the 64-slice multi-detector computed tomography was used. The alderson radiation therapy phantom and optically stimulated luminescence dosimeter (OSLD), which enabled measurement from low to high dose, were also used. For measurement of radiation dose, the slice number from 9 to 21 of the phantom was set as the test range, which included apex up to both costophrenic angles. A total of 10 OSLD nanoDots were attached for measurement of the front and rear ESD. Cyclic tests were performed using the low-dose chest CT and high-resolution CT (HRCT) protocol on the following set-ups: without shielding; shielding only on the front side; shielding only on the rear side; and shielding for both front and rear sides. According to the test results, ESD for both front and rear sides was higher in HRCT than low-dose CT when radiation shielding was not used. It was also determined that, compared to the set-up that did not use the radiation shield, locating the radiation shield on the front side was effective in reducing front ESD, while locating the radiation shield on the rear side reduced rear ESD level. Shielding both the front and rear sides resulted in ESD reduction. In conclusion, it was confirmed that shielding the front and rear sides was the most effective method to reduce the ESD effect caused by scatter ray during radiography.

Unenhanced Cone Beam Computed Tomography and Fusion Imaging in Direct Percutaneous Sac Injection for Treatment of Type II Endoleak: Technical Note

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carrafiello, Gianpaolo, E-mail: gcarraf@gmail.com; Ierardi, Anna Maria; Radaelli, Alessandro

AimTo evaluate safety, feasibility, technical success, and clinical success of direct percutaneous sac injection (DPSI) for the treatment of type II endoleaks (T2EL) using anatomical landmarks on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and fusion imaging (FI).Materials and MethodsEight patients with T2EL were treated with DPSI using CBCT as imaging guidance. Anatomical landmarks on unenhanced CBCT were used for referencing T2EL location in the first five patients, while FI between unenhanced CBCT and pre-procedural computed tomography angiography (CTA) was used in the remaining three patients. Embolization was performed with thrombin, glue, and ethylene–vinyl alcohol copolymer. Technical and clinical success, iodinated contrastmore » utilization, procedural time, fluoroscopy time, and mean radiation dose were registered.ResultsDPSI was technically successful in all patients: the needle was correctly positioned at the first attempt in six patients, while in two of the first five patients the needle was repositioned once. Neither minor nor major complications were registered. Average procedural time was 45 min and the average administered iodinated contrast was 13 ml. Mean radiation dose of the procedure was 60.43 Gy cm{sup 2} and mean fluoroscopy time was 18 min. Clinical success was achieved in all patients (mean follow-up of 36 months): no sign of T2EL was reported in seven patients until last CT follow-up, while it persisted in one patient with stability of sac diameter.ConclusionsDPSI using unenhanced CBCT and FI is feasible and provides the interventional radiologist with an accurate and safe alternative to endovascular treatment with limited iodinated contrast utilization.« less

3D printing of the aortic annulus based on cardiovascular computed tomography: Preliminary experience in pre-procedural planning for aortic valve sizing.

PubMed

Faletti, Riccardo; Gatti, Marco; Cosentino, Aurelio; Bergamasco, Laura; Cura Stura, Erik; Garabello, Domenica; Pennisi, Giovanni; Salizzoni, Stefano; Veglia, Simona; Ottavio, Davini; Rinaldi, Mauro; Fonio, Paolo

2018-05-26

to determine reliability and reproducibility of measurements of aortic annulus in 3D models printed from cardiovascular computed tomography (CCT) images. Retrospective study on the records of 20 patients who underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR) with pre-surgery annulus assessment by CCT and intra-operative sizing by Hegar dilators (IOS). 3D models were fabricated by fused deposition modelling of thermoplastic polyurethane filaments. For each patient, two 3D models were independently segmented, modelled and printed by two blinded "manufacturers": a radiologist and a radiology technician. Two blinded cardiac surgeons performed the annulus diameter measurements by Hegar dilators on the two sets of models. Matched data from different measurements were analyzed with Wilcoxon test, Bland-Altmann plot and within-subject ANOVA. No significant differences were found among the measurements made by each cardiac surgeon on the same 3D model (p = 0.48) or on the 3D models printed by different manufacturers (p = 0.25); also, no intraobserver variability (p = 0.46). The annulus diameter measured on 3D models showed good agreement with the reference CCT measurement (p = 0.68) and IOH sizing (p = 0.11). Time and cost per model were: model creation ∼10-15 min; printing time ∼60 min; post-processing ∼5min; material cost ∼1€.
 CONCLUSION: 3D printing of aortic annulus can offer reliable, not expensive patient-specific information to be used in the pre-operative planning of AVR or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Copyright © 2018 Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Technical note: optimization for improved tube-loading efficiency in the dual-energy computed tomography coupled with balanced filter method.

PubMed

Saito, Masatoshi

2010-08-01

This article describes the spectral optimization of dual-energy computed tomography using balanced filters (bf-DECT) to reduce the tube loadings and dose by dedicating to the acquisition of electron density information, which is essential for treatment planning in radiotherapy. For the spectral optimization of bf-DECT, the author calculated the beam-hardening error and air kerma required to achieve a desired noise level in an electron density image of a 50-cm-diameter cylindrical water phantom. The calculation enables the selection of beam parameters such as tube voltage, balanced filter material, and its thickness. The optimal combination of tube voltages was 80 kV/140 kV in conjunction with Tb/Hf and Bi/Mo filter pairs; this combination agrees with that obtained in a previous study [M. Saito, "Spectral optimization for measuring electron density by the dual-energy computed tomography coupled with balanced filter method," Med. Phys. 36, 3631-3642 (2009)], although the thicknesses of the filters that yielded a minimum tube output were slightly different from those obtained in the previous study. The resultant tube loading of a low-energy scan of the present bf-DECT significantly decreased from 57.5 to 4.5 times that of a high-energy scan for conventional DECT. Furthermore, the air kerma of bf-DECT could be reduced to less than that of conventional DECT, while obtaining the same figure of merit for the measurement of electron density and effective atomic number. The tube-loading and dose efficiencies of bf-DECT were considerably improved by sacrificing the quality of the noise level in the images of effective atomic number.

The Evaluation of Root Fracture with Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): An Epidemiological Study

PubMed Central

Doğan, Mehmet-Sinan; Callea, Michele; Kusdhany, Lindawati S.; Aras, Ahmet; Maharani, Diah-Ayu; Mandasari, Masita; Adiatman, Melissa

2018-01-01

Background The aim of this study was evaluation of the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) image of 50 patients at the ages of 8-15 suspecting root fracture and root fracture occurred, exposed to dental traumatic. In additionally, this study was showed effect of crown fracture on root fracture healing. Material and Methods All of the individuals included in the study were obtained images with the cone-beam computed tomography range of 0,3 voxel and 8.9 seconds.(i-CAT®, Model 17-19, Imaging SciencesInternational, Hatfield, Pa USA).The information obtained from the history and CBCT images of patients were evaluated using chi-square test statistical method the mean and the distribution of the independent variables. Results 50 children, have been exposed to trauma, was detected root fracture injury in 97 teeth. Horizontal root fracture 63.9% of the 97 tooth, the oblique in 31.9%, both the horizontal and oblique in 1.03%, partial fracture in 2.06% ,and both horizontally and vertical in 1.03% was observed.The most affected teeth, respectively of, are the maxillary central incisor (41.23% left, right, 37.11%), maxillary left lateral incisor (9.27%), maxillary right lateral incisor (11.34%), and mandibular central incisor (1.03%). Conclusions Crown fractures have negative effects on spontaneous healing of root fractures. CBCT are used selected as an alternative to with conventional radiography for diagnosis of root fractures. In particular, ıt’s cross-sectional image is quite useful and has been provided more conveniences seeing the results of diagnosis and treatment for clinician. Key words:Root fracture, CBCT, Epidemiolog. PMID:29670714

A computer-aided system for automatic extraction of femur neck trabecular bone architecture using isotropic volume construction from clinical hip computed tomography images.

PubMed

Vivekanandhan, Sapthagirivasan; Subramaniam, Janarthanam; Mariamichael, Anburajan

2016-10-01

Hip fractures due to osteoporosis are increasing progressively across the globe. It is also difficult for those fractured patients to undergo dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans due to its complicated protocol and its associated cost. The utilisation of computed tomography for the fracture treatment has become common in the clinical practice. It would be helpful for orthopaedic clinicians, if they could get some additional information related to bone strength for better treatment planning. The aim of our study was to develop an automated system to segment the femoral neck region, extract the cortical and trabecular bone parameters, and assess the bone strength using an isotropic volume construction from clinical computed tomography images. The right hip computed tomography and right femur dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements were taken from 50 south-Indian females aged 30-80 years. Each computed tomography image volume was re-constructed to form isotropic volumes. An automated system by incorporating active contour models was used to segment the neck region. A minimum distance boundary method was applied to isolate the cortical and trabecular bone components. The trabecular bone was enhanced and segmented using trabecular enrichment approach. The cortical and trabecular bone features were extracted and statistically compared with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measured femur neck bone mineral density. The extracted bone measures demonstrated a significant correlation with neck bone mineral density (r > 0.7, p < 0.001). The inclusion of cortical measures, along with the trabecular measures extracted after isotropic volume construction and trabecular enrichment approach procedures, resulted in better estimation of bone strength. The findings suggest that the proposed system using the clinical computed tomography images scanned with low dose could eventually be helpful in osteoporosis diagnosis and its treatment planning. © IMechE 2016.

Direct estimation of human trabecular bone stiffness using cone beam computed tomography.

PubMed

Klintström, Eva; Klintström, Benjamin; Pahr, Dieter; Brismar, Torkel B; Smedby, Örjan; Moreno, Rodrigo

2018-04-10

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility of estimating the biomechanical properties of trabecular bone through finite element simulations by using dental cone beam computed tomography data. Fourteen human radius specimens were scanned in 3 cone beam computed tomography devices: 3-D Accuitomo 80 (J. Morita MFG., Kyoto, Japan), NewTom 5 G (QR Verona, Verona, Italy), and Verity (Planmed, Helsinki, Finland). The imaging data were segmented by using 2 different methods. Stiffness (Young modulus), shear moduli, and the size and shape of the stiffness tensor were studied. Corresponding evaluations by using micro-CT were regarded as the reference standard. The 3-D Accuitomo 80 (J. Morita MFG., Kyoto, Japan) showed good performance in estimating stiffness and shear moduli but was sensitive to the choice of segmentation method. NewTom 5 G (QR Verona, Verona, Italy) and Verity (Planmed, Helsinki, Finland) yielded good correlations, but they were not as strong as Accuitomo 80 (J. Morita MFG., Kyoto, Japan). The cone beam computed tomography devices overestimated both stiffness and shear compared with the micro-CT estimations. Finite element-based calculations of biomechanics from cone beam computed tomography data are feasible, with strong correlations for the Accuitomo 80 scanner (J. Morita MFG., Kyoto, Japan) combined with an appropriate segmentation method. Such measurements might be useful for predicting implant survival by in vivo estimations of bone properties. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rapid data processing for ultrafast X-ray computed tomography using scalable and modular CUDA based pipelines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frust, Tobias; Wagner, Michael; Stephan, Jan; Juckeland, Guido; Bieberle, André

2017-10-01

Ultrafast X-ray tomography is an advanced imaging technique for the study of dynamic processes basing on the principles of electron beam scanning. A typical application case for this technique is e.g. the study of multiphase flows, that is, flows of mixtures of substances such as gas-liquidflows in pipelines or chemical reactors. At Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) a number of such tomography scanners are operated. Currently, there are two main points limiting their application in some fields. First, after each CT scan sequence the data of the radiation detector must be downloaded from the scanner to a data processing machine. Second, the current data processing is comparably time-consuming compared to the CT scan sequence interval. To enable online observations or use this technique to control actuators in real-time, a modular and scalable data processing tool has been developed, consisting of user-definable stages working independently together in a so called data processing pipeline, that keeps up with the CT scanner's maximal frame rate of up to 8 kHz. The newly developed data processing stages are freely programmable and combinable. In order to achieve the highest processing performance all relevant data processing steps, which are required for a standard slice image reconstruction, were individually implemented in separate stages using Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and NVIDIA's CUDA programming language. Data processing performance tests on different high-end GPUs (Tesla K20c, GeForce GTX 1080, Tesla P100) showed excellent performance. Program Files doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.17632/65sx747rvm.1 Licensing provisions: LGPLv3 Programming language: C++/CUDA Supplementary material: Test data set, used for the performance analysis. Nature of problem: Ultrafast computed tomography is performed with a scan rate of up to 8 kHz. To obtain cross-sectional images from projection data computer-based image reconstruction algorithms must be applied. The objective of the presented program is to reconstruct a data stream of around 1.3 GB s-1 in a minimum time period. Thus, the program allows to go into new fields of application and to use in the future even more compute-intensive algorithms, especially for data post-processing, to improve the quality of data analysis. Solution method: The program solves the given problem using a two-step process: first, by a generic, expandable and widely applicable template library implementing the streaming paradigm (GLADOS); second, by optimized processing stages for ultrafast computed tomography implementing the required algorithms in a performance-oriented way using CUDA (RISA). Thereby, task-parallelism between the processing stages as well as data parallelism within one processing stage is realized.

Positron emission tomography/computed tomography in melanoma.

PubMed

Bourgeois, Austin C; Chang, Ted T; Fish, Lindsay M; Bradley, Yong C

2013-09-01

Fludeoxyglucose F 18 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has been invaluable in the assessment of melanoma throughout the course of the disease. As with any modality, the studies are incomplete and more information will be gleaned as our experience progresses. Additionally, it is hoped that a newer PET agent in the pipeline will give us even greater success in the identification and subsequent treatment of melanoma. This article aims to examine the utilization of PET/CT in the staging, prognostication, and follow-up of melanoma while providing the physicians who order and interpret these studies practical guidelines and interpretive pitfalls. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Miscellaneous indications in bone scintigraphy: metabolic bone diseases and malignant bone tumors.

PubMed

Cook, Gary J R; Gnanasegaran, Gopinath; Chua, Sue

2010-01-01

The diphosphonate bone scan is ideally suited to assess many global, focal or multifocal metabolic bone disorders and there remains a role for conventional bone scintigraphy in metabolic bone disorders at diagnosis, investigation of complications, and treatment response assessment. In contrast, the role of bone scintigraphy in the evaluation of primary malignant bone tumors has reduced with the improvement of morphologic imaging, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. However, an increasing role for (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and positron emission tomography/computed tomography is emerging as a functional assessment at diagnosis, staging, and neoadjuvant treatment response assessment.

Usefulness of fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for detection of a neuroblastic nodule in a ganglioneuroblastoma: a case report.

PubMed

Takeda, Yuka; Sano, Hideki; Kawano, Asuka; Mochizuki, Kazuhiro; Takahashi, Nobuhisa; Kobayashi, Shogo; Ohara, Yoshihiro; Tasaki, Kazuhiro; Hosoya, Mitusuaki; Kikuta, Atsushi

2018-05-03

Ganglioneuroblastoma, nodular is defined as a composite tumor of biologically distinct clones. The peripheral neuroblastic tumors in this category are characterized by the presence of grossly visible neuroblastoma nodules coexisting with ganglioneuroblastoma, intermixed, or with ganglioneuroma. Making a correct diagnosis of ganglioneuroblastoma, nodular is often difficult by biopsy or partial tumor resection, because the neuroblastic nodule could be hidden and not sampled for pathological examination. We report a case of a Japanese boy aged 3 years, 8 months, with an unresectable abdominal tumor and elevated vanillylmandelic acid and homovanillic acid levels. The initial biopsy was ganglioneuroma. However, after the second biopsy from a hidden neuroblastoma nodule that was clearly highlighted by fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography, we reached the diagnosis of ganglioneuroblastoma, nodular. Because the nodule demonstrated neuroblastoma, differentiating subtype, with a low mitosis-karyorrhexis index (favorable histology) and nonamplified MYCN, the boy was treated according to the intermediate-risk protocol and is now alive and well 4 years after the diagnosis. This case illustrates the critical role of fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for detecting a neuroblastoma nodule in a ganglioneuroblastoma.

Electron Density Calibration for Radiotherapy Treatment Planning

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Herrera-Martinez, F.; Rodriguez-Villafuerte, M.; Martinez-Davalos, A.

2006-09-08

Computed tomography (CT) images are used as basic input data for most modern radiosurgery treatment planning systems (TPS). CT data not only provide anatomic information to delineate target volumes, but also allow the introduction of corrections for tissue inhomogeneities into dose calculations during the treatment planning procedure. These corrections involve the determination of a relationship between tissue electron density ({rho}e) and their corresponding Hounsfield Units (HU). In this work, an elemental analysis of different commercial tissue equivalent materials using Scanning Electron Microscopy was carried out to characterize their chemical composition. The tissue equivalent materials were chosen to ensure a largemore » range of {rho}e to be included in the CT scanner calibration. A phantom was designed and constructed with these materials to simulate the size of a human head.« less

Segmenting root systems in xray computed tomography images using level sets

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The segmentation of plant roots from soil and other growing mediums in xray computed tomography images is needed to effectively study the shapes of roots without excavation. However, segmentation is a challenging problem in this context because the root and non-root regions share similar features. ...

Retroperitoneal tumour radiotherapy: clinical improvements using kilovoltage cone beam computed tomography.

PubMed

Juan-Senabre, Xavier J; Ferrer-Albiach, Carlos; Rodríguez-Cordón, Marta; Santos-Serra, Agustín; López-Tarjuelo, Juan; Calzada-Feliu, Salvador

2009-04-01

We present a clinical case of a patient diagnosed with a retroperitoneal sarcoma, which received preoperative treatment with daily verification via computed tomography obtained with kilovoltage cone beam. We compare the benefit of this treatment compared to other conventional treatment without image guiding, reporting quantitative results.

Imaging Techniques in Endodontics: An Overview

PubMed Central

Deepak, B. S.; Subash, T. S.; Narmatha, V. J.; Anamika, T.; Snehil, T. K.; Nandini, D. B.

2012-01-01

This review provides an overview of the relevance of imaging techniques such as, computed tomography, cone beam computed tomography, and ultrasound, to endodontic practice. Many limitations of the conventional radiographic techniques have been overcome by the newer methods. Advantages and disadvantages of various imaging techniques in endodontic practice are also discussed. PMID:22530184

SIMULATION STUDY FOR GASEOUS FLUXES FROM AN AREA SOURCE USING COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND OPTICAL REMOTE SENSING

EPA Science Inventory

The paper presents a new approach to quantifying emissions from fugitive gaseous air pollution sources. Computed tomography (CT) and path-integrated optical remote sensing (PI-ORS) concentration data are combined in a new field beam geometry. Path-integrated concentrations are ...

Computed tomography as a diagnostic aid for extracanal invasive resorption.

PubMed

Kim, Euiseong; Kim, Kee-Deog; Roh, Byoung-Duck; Cho, Yong-Sik; Lee, Seung-Jong

2003-07-01

A case of multiple extracanal invasive resorption is reported. The patient had a history of hypothyroidism for approximately 1 yr before the dental visit. Utilization of computed tomography and a rapid prototyping tooth model in diagnosing the exact location and the size of the resorption area are discussed.

Single photon emission computed tomography in motor neuron disease with dementia.

PubMed

Sawada, H; Udaka, F; Kishi, Y; Seriu, N; Mezaki, T; Kameyama, M; Honda, M; Tomonobu, M

1988-01-01

Single photon emission computed tomography with [123 I] isopropylamphetamine was carried out on a patient with motor neuron disease with dementia. [123 I] uptake was decreased in the frontal lobes. This would reflect the histopathological findings such as neuronal loss and gliosis in the frontal lobes.

APPLICATION OF 3D COMPUTER-AIDED TOMOGRAPHY TO THE QUANTIFICATION OF MARINE SEDIMENT COMMUNITIES IN POLLUTION GRADIENTS

EPA Science Inventory

Computer-Aided Tomography (CT) has been demonstrated to be a cost efficient tool for the qualitative and quantitative study of estuarine benthic communities along pollution gradients.
Now we have advanced this technology to successfully visualize and discriminate three dimen...

Spatial image modulation to improve performance of computed tomography imaging spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bearman, Gregory H. (Inventor); Wilson, Daniel W. (Inventor); Johnson, William R. (Inventor)

2010-01-01

Computed tomography imaging spectrometers ("CTIS"s) having patterns for imposing spatial structure are provided. The pattern may be imposed either directly on the object scene being imaged or at the field stop aperture. The use of the pattern improves the accuracy of the captured spatial and spectral information.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Williamson, Casey W.; Green, Garrett; Noticewala, Sonal S.

Purpose: Validated models are needed to justify strategies to define planning target volumes (PTVs) for intact cervical cancer used in clinical practice. Our objective was to independently validate a previously published shape model, using data collected prospectively from clinical trials. Methods and Materials: We analyzed 42 patients with intact cervical cancer treated with daily fractionated pelvic intensity modulated radiation therapy and concurrent chemotherapy in one of 2 prospective clinical trials. We collected online cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans before each fraction. Clinical target volume (CTV) structures from the planning computed tomography scan were cast onto each CBCT scan aftermore » rigid registration and manually redrawn to account for organ motion and deformation. We applied the 95% isodose cloud from the planning computed tomography scan to each CBCT scan and computed any CTV outside the 95% isodose cloud. The primary aim was to determine the proportion of CTVs that were encompassed within the 95% isodose volume. A 1-sample t test was used to test the hypothesis that the probability of complete coverage was different from 95%. We used mixed-effects logistic regression to assess effects of time and patient variability. Results: The 95% isodose line completely encompassed 92.3% of all CTVs (95% confidence interval, 88.3%-96.4%), not significantly different from the 95% probability anticipated a priori (P=.19). The overall proportion of missed CTVs was small: the grand mean of covered CTVs was 99.9%, and 95.2% of misses were located in the anterior body of the uterus. Time did not affect coverage probability (P=.71). Conclusions: With the clinical implementation of a previously proposed PTV definition strategy based on a shape model for intact cervical cancer, the probability of CTV coverage was high and the volume of CTV missed was low. This PTV expansion strategy is acceptable for clinical trials and practice; however, we recommend daily image guidance to avoid systematic large misses in select patients.« less

Effects of calibration methods on quantitative material decomposition in photon-counting spectral computed tomography using a maximum a posteriori estimator.

PubMed

Curtis, Tyler E; Roeder, Ryan K

2017-10-01

Advances in photon-counting detectors have enabled quantitative material decomposition using multi-energy or spectral computed tomography (CT). Supervised methods for material decomposition utilize an estimated attenuation for each material of interest at each photon energy level, which must be calibrated based upon calculated or measured values for known compositions. Measurements using a calibration phantom can advantageously account for system-specific noise, but the effect of calibration methods on the material basis matrix and subsequent quantitative material decomposition has not been experimentally investigated. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the influence of the range and number of contrast agent concentrations within a modular calibration phantom on the accuracy of quantitative material decomposition in the image domain. Gadolinium was chosen as a model contrast agent in imaging phantoms, which also contained bone tissue and water as negative controls. The maximum gadolinium concentration (30, 60, and 90 mM) and total number of concentrations (2, 4, and 7) were independently varied to systematically investigate effects of the material basis matrix and scaling factor calibration on the quantitative (root mean squared error, RMSE) and spatial (sensitivity and specificity) accuracy of material decomposition. Images of calibration and sample phantoms were acquired using a commercially available photon-counting spectral micro-CT system with five energy bins selected to normalize photon counts and leverage the contrast agent k-edge. Material decomposition of gadolinium, calcium, and water was performed for each calibration method using a maximum a posteriori estimator. Both the quantitative and spatial accuracy of material decomposition were most improved by using an increased maximum gadolinium concentration (range) in the basis matrix calibration; the effects of using a greater number of concentrations were relatively small in magnitude by comparison. The material basis matrix calibration was more sensitive to changes in the calibration methods than the scaling factor calibration. The material basis matrix calibration significantly influenced both the quantitative and spatial accuracy of material decomposition, while the scaling factor calibration influenced quantitative but not spatial accuracy. Importantly, the median RMSE of material decomposition was as low as ~1.5 mM (~0.24 mg/mL gadolinium), which was similar in magnitude to that measured by optical spectroscopy on the same samples. The accuracy of quantitative material decomposition in photon-counting spectral CT was significantly influenced by calibration methods which must therefore be carefully considered for the intended diagnostic imaging application. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Advanced imaging in COPD: insights into pulmonary pathophysiology

PubMed Central

Milne, Stephen

2014-01-01

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) involves a complex interaction of structural and functional abnormalities. The two have long been studied in isolation. However, advanced imaging techniques allow us to simultaneously assess pathological processes and their physiological consequences. This review gives a comprehensive account of the various advanced imaging modalities used to study COPD, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the nuclear medicine techniques positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Some more recent developments in imaging technology, including micro-CT, synchrotron imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electrical impedance tomography (EIT), are also described. The authors identify the pathophysiological insights gained from these techniques, and speculate on the future role of advanced imaging in both clinical and research settings. PMID:25478198

Does intravenous contrast-enhanced computed tomography cause acute kidney injury? Protocol of a systematic review of the evidence

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Contrast-induced acute kidney injury is a common cause of iatrogenic acute kidney injury (AKI). Most of the published estimates of AKI after contrast use originate from the cardiac catheterization literature despite contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans being the more common setting for contrast use. This systematic review aims to summarize the current evidence about (1)the risk of AKI following intravenous (IV) contrast-enhanced CT scans and(2) the risk of clinical outcomes (i.e. death, hospitalization and need for renal replacement therapy) due to IV contrast-enhanced CT scans. Methods/Design A systematic literature search for published studies will be performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE and The COCHRANE Library databases. Unpublished studies will be identified by searching through grey literature. No language restriction will be applied. The review will consider all studies that have examined the association between IV contrast media and AKI. To be selected, the study should include two arms: one group of exposed patients who received IV contrast material before CT scans and one group of unexposed group who did not receive contrast material before CT scans. Two authors will independently screen titles and abstracts obtained from electronic databases, extract data and will assess the quality of the studies selected using the Cochrane's ‘Risk of Bias’ assessment tool for randomized trials and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies. A random-effects meta-analysis will be performed if there is no remarkable heterogeneity between studies. Discussion This systematic review will provide synthesis of current evidence around the effect of IV contrast material on AKI and other clinical outcomes. Results will be helpful for making evidence-based recommendations and guidelines for clinical and radiologic settings. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42013003799. PMID:25148933

Attenuation Drift in the Micro-Computed Tomography System at LLNL

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dooraghi, Alex A.; Brown, William; Seetho, Isaac

2016-01-12

The maximum allowable level of drift in the linear attenuation coefficients (μ) for a Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) micro-computed tomography (MCT) system was determined to be 0.1%. After ~100 scans were acquired during the period of November 2014 to March 2015, the drift in μ for a set of six reference materials reached or exceeded 0.1%. Two strategies have been identified to account for or correct the drift. First, normalizing the 160 kV and 100 kV μ data by the μ of water at the corresponding energy, in contrast to conducting normalization at the 160 kV energy only, significantlymore » compensates for measurement drift. Even after the modified normalization, μ of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) increases linearly with scan number at an average rate of 0.00147% per scan. This is consistent with PTFE radiation damage documented in the literature. The second strategy suggested is the replacement of the PTFE reference with fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), which has the same effective atomic number (Ze) and electron density (ρe) as PTFE, but is 10 times more radiation resistant. This is important as effective atomic number and electron density are key parameters in analysis. The presence of a material with properties such as PTFE, when taken together with the remaining references, allows for a broad range of the (Ze, ρe) feature space to be used in analysis. While FEP is documented as 10 times more radiation resistant, testing will be necessary to assess how often, if necessary, FEP will need to be replaced. As radiation damage to references has been observed, it will be necessary to monitor all reference materials for radiation damage to ensure consistent x-ray characteristics of the references.« less

A Novel Two-Compartment Model for Calculating Bone Volume Fractions and Bone Mineral Densities From Computed Tomography Images.

PubMed

Lin, Hsin-Hon; Peng, Shin-Lei; Wu, Jay; Shih, Tian-Yu; Chuang, Keh-Shih; Shih, Cheng-Ting

2017-05-01

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by a degradation of bone structures. Various methods have been developed to diagnose osteoporosis by measuring bone mineral density (BMD) of patients. However, BMDs from these methods were not equivalent and were incomparable. In addition, partial volume effect introduces errors in estimating bone volume from computed tomography (CT) images using image segmentation. In this study, a two-compartment model (TCM) was proposed to calculate bone volume fraction (BV/TV) and BMD from CT images. The TCM considers bones to be composed of two sub-materials. Various equivalent BV/TV and BMD can be calculated by applying corresponding sub-material pairs in the TCM. In contrast to image segmentation, the TCM prevented the influence of the partial volume effect by calculating the volume percentage of sub-material in each image voxel. Validations of the TCM were performed using bone-equivalent uniform phantoms, a 3D-printed trabecular-structural phantom, a temporal bone flap, and abdominal CT images. By using the TCM, the calculated BV/TVs of the uniform phantoms were within percent errors of ±2%; the percent errors of the structural volumes with various CT slice thickness were below 9%; the volume of the temporal bone flap was close to that from micro-CT images with a percent error of 4.1%. No significant difference (p >0.01) was found between the areal BMD of lumbar vertebrae calculated using the TCM and measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. In conclusion, the proposed TCM could be applied to diagnose osteoporosis, while providing a basis for comparing various measurement methods.

Dual-energy X-ray analysis using synchrotron computed tomography at 35 and 60 keV for the estimation of photon interaction coefficients describing attenuation and energy absorption.

PubMed

Midgley, Stewart; Schleich, Nanette

2015-05-01

A novel method for dual-energy X-ray analysis (DEXA) is tested using measurements of the X-ray linear attenuation coefficient μ. The key is a mathematical model that describes elemental cross sections using a polynomial in atomic number. The model is combined with the mixture rule to describe μ for materials, using the same polynomial coefficients. Materials are characterized by their electron density Ne and statistical moments Rk describing their distribution of elements, analogous to the concept of effective atomic number. In an experiment with materials of known density and composition, measurements of μ are written as a system of linear simultaneous equations, which is solved for the polynomial coefficients. DEXA itself involves computed tomography (CT) scans at two energies to provide a system of non-linear simultaneous equations that are solved for Ne and the fourth statistical moment R4. Results are presented for phantoms containing dilute salt solutions and for a biological specimen. The experiment identifies 1% systematic errors in the CT measurements, arising from third-harmonic radiation, and 20-30% noise, which is reduced to 3-5% by pre-processing with the median filter and careful choice of reconstruction parameters. DEXA accuracy is quantified for the phantom as the mean absolute differences for Ne and R4: 0.8% and 1.0% for soft tissue and 1.2% and 0.8% for bone-like samples, respectively. The DEXA results for the biological specimen are combined with model coefficients obtained from the tabulations to predict μ and the mass energy absorption coefficient at energies of 10 keV to 20 MeV.

Biologically relevant photoacoustic imaging phantoms with tunable optical and acoustic properties

PubMed Central

Vogt, William C.; Jia, Congxian; Wear, Keith A.; Garra, Brian S.; Joshua Pfefer, T.

2016-01-01

Abstract. Established medical imaging technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography rely on well-validated tissue-simulating phantoms for standardized testing of device image quality. The availability of high-quality phantoms for optical-acoustic diagnostics such as photoacoustic tomography (PAT) will facilitate standardization and clinical translation of these emerging approaches. Materials used in prior PAT phantoms do not provide a suitable combination of long-term stability and realistic acoustic and optical properties. Therefore, we have investigated the use of custom polyvinyl chloride plastisol (PVCP) formulations for imaging phantoms and identified a dual-plasticizer approach that provides biologically relevant ranges of relevant properties. Speed of sound and acoustic attenuation were determined over a frequency range of 4 to 9 MHz and optical absorption and scattering over a wavelength range of 400 to 1100 nm. We present characterization of several PVCP formulations, including one designed to mimic breast tissue. This material is used to construct a phantom comprised of an array of cylindrical, hemoglobin-filled inclusions for evaluation of penetration depth. Measurements with a custom near-infrared PAT imager provide quantitative and qualitative comparisons of phantom and tissue images. Results indicate that our PVCP material is uniquely suitable for PAT system image quality evaluation and may provide a practical tool for device validation and intercomparison. PMID:26886681

Viewing Welds By Computer Tomography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pascua, Antonio G.; Roy, Jagatjit

1990-01-01

Computer tomography system used to inspect welds for root penetration. Source illuminates rotating welded part with fan-shaped beam of x rays or gamma rays. Detectors in circular array on opposite side of part intercept beam and convert it into electrical signals. Computer processes signals into image of cross section of weld. Image displayed on video monitor. System offers only nondestructive way to check penetration from outside when inner surfaces inaccessible.

Comparison of computed tomography with radiography as a noninvasive diagnostic technique for chronic nasal disease in dogs.

PubMed

Codner, E C; Lurus, A G; Miller, J B; Gavin, P R; Gallina, A; Barbee, D D

1993-04-01

Computed tomography was evaluated as a noninvasive technique for the diagnosis of chronic nasal disease in dogs. Computed tomographic images, radiographs, and histopathologic findings were compared in 11 dogs with chronic nasal disease. Definitive diagnosis was made following traumatic nasal flush, exploratory surgery, or necropsy. The study included 8 dogs with intranasal tumors, 2 dogs with bacterial rhinitis (Pasteurella sp), and 1 dog with mycotic rhinitis (Aspergillus sp). Computed tomography was superior to radiography in defining the extent of the disease process and in differentiating infectious rhinitis from nasal neoplasms. It defined lesions in the palate, nasopharyngeal meatus, maxillary sinus, caudal ethmoturbinates, and periorbital tissues that were difficult to demonstrate by use of conventional radiography. Tumors appeared as space-occupying lesions that obliterated the turbinates, caused deviation of the nasal septum, and eroded bone. Rhinitis appeared as a cavitating lesion that spared the paranasal sinuses, thickened and distorted the turbinates, and widened the meatus. Although morphologically distinct on computed tomographic images, infectious rhinitis and nasal neoplasms could not be differentiated by attenuation measurements or degree of contrast enhancement. Computed tomography appeared to be a reliable, noninvasive technique for the diagnosis of chronic nasal disease in dogs, and a promising alternative to diagnostic techniques currently in use.

[CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IN DIAGNOSTICS OF ODONTOGENIC MAXILLARY SINUSITIS (CASE REPORTS)].

PubMed

Demidova, E; Khurdzidze, G

2017-06-01

Diagnostic studies performed by cone beam computed tomography Morita 3D made possible to obtain high resolution images of hard tissues of upper jawbone and maxillary sinus, to detect bony tissue defects, such as odontogenic cysts, cystogranulomas and granulomas. High-resolution and three dimensional tomographic image reconstructions allowed for optimal and prompt determination of the scope of surgical treatment and planning of effective conservative treatment regimen. Interactive diagnostics helped to estimate cosmetic and functional results of surgical treatment, to prevent the occurrence of surgical complications, and to evaluate the efficacy of conservative treatment. The obtained data contributed to determination of particular applications of cone beam computed tomography in the diagnosis of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis, detection of specific defects with cone beam tomography as the most informative method of diagnosis; as well as to determination of weak and strong sides, and helped to offer mechanisms of x-ray diagnostics to dental surgeons and ENT specialists.

Dynamic contrast enhanced CT in nodule characterization: How we review and report.

PubMed

Qureshi, Nagmi R; Shah, Andrew; Eaton, Rosemary J; Miles, Ken; Gilbert, Fiona J

2016-07-18

Incidental indeterminate solitary pulmonary nodules (SPN) that measure less than 3 cm in size are an increasingly common finding on computed tomography (CT) worldwide. Once identified there are a number of imaging strategies that can be performed to help with nodule characterization. These include interval CT, dynamic contrast enhanced computed tomography (DCE-CT), (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography ((18)F-FDG-PET-CT). To date the most cost effective and efficient non-invasive test or combination of tests for optimal nodule characterization has yet to be determined.DCE-CT is a functional test that involves the acquisition of a dynamic series of images of a nodule before and following the administration of intravenous iodinated contrast medium. This article provides an overview of the current indications and limitations of DCE- CT in nodule characterization and a systematic approach to how to perform, analyse and interpret a DCE-CT scan.