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Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate a new deep-learning model for diagnosing avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVNFH) by analyzing pelvic anteroposterior digital radiography. Methods The study sample included 1167 hips. The radiographs were independently classified into 6 stages by a radiologist using their simultaneous MRIs. After that, the radiographs were given to train and test the deep learning models of the project including SVM and ANFIS layer using the Python programming language and TensorFlow library. In the last step, the test set of hip radiographs was provided to two independent radiologists with different work experiences to compare their diagnosis performance to the deep learning models’ performance using the F1 score and Mcnemar test analysis. Results The performance of SVM for AVNFH detection (AUC = 82.88%) was slightly higher than less experienced radiologists (79.68%) and slightly lower than experienced radiologists (88.4%) without reaching significance (p-value > 0.05). Evaluation of the performance of SVM for pre-collapse AVNFH detection with an AUC of 73.58% showed significantly higher performance than less experienced radiologists (AUC = 60.70%, p-value

Abstract The traditional methods in early caries detection had many limitations. So, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical performance of alternating current impedance spectroscopy ACIST in comparison with digital radiograph and ICDAS-II in detection of occlusal carious lesions. Occlusal surfaces of molar and premolar teeth from 40 adult participants were examined by two observers using three diagnostic methods: (1) international caries detection and assessment system (ICDAS-II) (2) digital radiograph (DR) and (3) Cariescan Pro device (ACIST). Agreement analysis and the difference in sensitivities and specificities were evaluated. The results showed an excellent agreement in the different groups. The difference from the visual tactile against ACIST scoring for enamel caries detection, was statistically significant (p = 0.012) and the agreement was moderate (k = 0.509). For dentinal caries the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) and the agreement was similarly moderate (k

Background: Dental radiography is an integral part of intraoral evaluation. Children are often uncomfortable during the placement of film or sensor due to the impingement of the soft tissues. Thus, the perception of pain with three intraoral radiographic methods in children was evaluated using three subjective pain rating scales. Aim: To evaluate the discomfort with three different techniques, that is, intraoral periapical (IOPA) radiograph, charge-coupled device (CCD), and photostimulable phosphor (PSP) luminescence (PSPL), using the Wong–Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (WBFPRS), numerical rating scale, and visual analog scale (VAS). Materials and Methods: A sample of 35 children aged 6–12 years were divided into two groups: group 1 (6–8 years) and group 2 (9–12 years). For each child, simulations of the three radiological methods (IOPA, CCD, and PSPL) were performed. The meaning of each facial expression on the WBFPRS, VAS, and the numbers on the numerical rating scale was explained to each child before the procedure. Statistical Analysis Used: A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and paired-samples t-test are used. Results: The results revealed that the CCD sensors elicited higher pain scores than those obtained with IOPA and PSPL, whereas the IOPA film showed the least pain score. Higher score values were obtained in group 1 than in group 2, indicating that children aged 6–8 years felt higher discomfort than the 9- to 12-year age group for the same procedure. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: It was concluded that conventional IOPA films were tolerated better by children when compared to PSP plates and CCD sensors.

ObjectiveTo investigate the entrance surface dose （ESD） of digital radiography （DR）adult examinees in a grade A tertiary hospital in Shanghai， to analyze the dose level of the DR adult examinees， and to provide data for the development of DR typical dose reference.MethodsA DR equipment in the hospital was selected and the irradiation parameters and dose were determined in two randomly selected age groups （15‒39 years and 40‒69 years） of DR adult examinees. The examinations included chest PA， chest LAT， abdominal AP， pelvic AP， lumbar AP， lumbar LAT， thoracic AP， and thoracic LAT. The number of examinees in each exposure position was 20. ESD and effective dose were calculated for each age group and each position.ResultsA total of 320 examinees were investigated. The 75th percentiles of ESD in different exposure positions were as follows： chest PA 0.19 mGy；chest LAT 0.96 mGy；abdominal AP 3.63 mGy；pelvic AP 3.16 mGy；lumbar AP 9.27 mGy；lumbar LAT 18.29 mGy；thoracic AP 6.85 mGy；and thoracic LAT 13.40 mGy.ConclusionsThe differences between the estimated ESD and effective dose were large in different exposure positions、in the same exposure positions、and in the same positions with different exposure types， and there were statistically significant differences in ESD of examinees with different exposure positions. The estimated typical values of different exposure positions were apparently lower than the diagnostic reference level.

The traditional methods in early caries detection had many limitations. So, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical performance of alternating current impedance spectroscopy ACIST in comparison with digital radiograph and ICDAS-II in detection of occlusal carious lesions. Occlusal surfaces of molar and premolar teeth from 40 adult participants were examined by two observers using three diagnostic methods: (1) international caries detection and assessment system (ICDAS-II) (2) digital radiograph (DR) and (3) Cariescan Pro device (ACIST). Agreement analysis and the difference in sensitivities and specificities were evaluated. The results showed an excellent agreement in the different groups. The difference from the visual tactile against ACIST scoring for enamel caries detection, was statistically significant (p = 0.012) and the agreement was moderate (k = 0.509). For dentinal caries the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) and the agreement was similarly moderate (k < 0.6). The difference from the digital radiograph against ACIST scoring, for enamel caries, digital radiography had significantly higher sensitivity and specificity than ACIST (p < 0.001) while for dentinal caries detection and overall, ACIST had higher sensitivity and digital radiography had higher specificity and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Visual-tactile examination is a considered as feasible and valid technique for occlusal caries detection, digital radiography is superior to ACIST in diagnosing enamel caries, but it could underestimate the caries depth, ACIST is a reliable tool for detecting occlusal caries in dentin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate a new deep-learning model for diagnosing avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVNFH) by analyzing pelvic anteroposterior digital radiography. Methods: The study sample included 1167 hips. The radiographs were independently classified into 6 stages by a radiologist using their simultaneous MRIs. After that, the radiographs were given to train and test the deep learning models of the project including SVM and ANFIS layer using the Python programming language and TensorFlow library. In the last step, the test set of hip radiographs was provided to two independent radiologists with different work experiences to compare their diagnosis performance to the deep learning models' performance using the F1 score and Mcnemar test analysis. Results: The performance of SVM for AVNFH detection (AUC = 82.88%) was slightly higher than less experienced radiologists (79.68%) and slightly lower than experienced radiologists (88.4%) without reaching significance (p-value > 0.05). Evaluation of the performance of SVM for pre-collapse AVNFH detection with an AUC of 73.58% showed significantly higher performance than less experienced radiologists (AUC = 60.70%, p-value < 0.001). On the other hand, no significant difference is noted between experienced radiologists and SVM for pre-collapse detection. ANFIS algorithm for AVNFH detection with an AUC of 86.60% showed significantly higher performance than less experienced radiologists (AUC = 79.68%, p-value = 0.04). Although reaching less performance compared to experienced radiologists statistically not significant (AUC = 88.40%, p-value = 0.20). Conclusions: Our study has shed light on the remarkable capabilities of SVM and ANFIS as diagnostic tools for AVNFH detection in radiography. Their ability to achieve high accuracy with remarkable efficiency makes them promising candidates for early detection and intervention, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many new technologies are being used in dentistry, enhancing and accelerating dental procedures. However, there is still a lack of a comprehensive and coherent understanding of the extent of technology use and the factors influencing its adoption in any specific society. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the frequency of digital technology use among dentists in Zahedan, Iran, in 2023. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, ninety-three dentists working in Zahedan city were investigated. Simple random sampling was used to select participants, and a questionnaire was administered that included sections on demographic information (gender, experience, workplace, level of degree, level of education), administrative and communicative aspects (4 questions), clinical and diagnostic aspects (9 questions), and reasons for not using certain technologies. The validity of the questionnaire was 100%, and the reliability was 0.8. Data analysis was performed using frequency analysis and comparisons between groups, which were conducted using the chi-square or Fisher's exact test. A P-value of less than 0.05 (P < 0.05) was considered statistically significant. Results: The usage rate of digital technologies among dentists in Zahedan was 60.2% low, 35.5% moderate, and 4.3% high. There was a significant relationship between the use of digital technologies and factors such as gender (P < 0.001), workplace (P < 0.001), experience (P < 0.006), and level of education (P < 0.002). However, no significant relationship was found between digital technology use and the level of degree. Digital radiography was the most commonly used technology, with a usage rate of 74.3%. The most frequently used administrative and communicative technology was the "use of communication program or software with other centers," at 49.9%. The majority of digital technologies began to be adopted from 2019 onwards. The main reason for not using administrative and communicative technologies was "inaccessibility," while the primary reason for not using clinical and diagnostic technologies was deemed "unnecessary use." Conclusions: The use of digital technologies by dentists in Zahedan was found to be low. Given the limited adoption of digital technologies in dentistry, it is essential to provide more training for dentists and to facilitate better access to these technologies in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Methods Results Conclusions Reject analysis in digital radiography helps guide the training of staff to reduce patient radiation dose and improve department efficiency. The purpose of this study was to perform a multi‐centre, vendor agnostic reject analysis across different room usage types, and to provide benchmarks for comparison.Retrospective reject and exposure log data were collected via USB from fixed general X‐ray systems across multiple Australian sites, for collation and analysis. The overall reject rate, local reject reference level, absolute and relative reject rates for body part categories, reject rates by room usage types and the reject rate for each reason of rejection were calculated.Data were collected from 44 X‐ray systems, across 11 hospitals. A total of 2,031,713 acquired images and 172,495 rejected images were included. The median reject rate was 9.1%. The local reject reference level (LRRL), set as the 75th percentile of all reject rates, was 10.6%. Median reject rates by room type were emergency (7.4%), inpatients + outpatients (9.6%), outpatients (9.2%), and hybrid (10.1%). The highest absolute reject rates by body part were chest (2.1%) and knee (1.4%). The highest relative rates by body part were knee (18.1%) and pelvis (17.2%). The most frequent reasons for image rejection were patient positioning (76%) and patient motion (7.5%).The results compare well with previously published data. The range of reject rates highlights the need to analyse typical reject rates in different ways. With analysis feedback to participating sites and the implementation of standardised reject reasons, future analysis should monitor whether reject rates reduce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Radiographs are an integral part of detecting proximal caries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of contrast, brightness, noise, sharpness, and γ adjustment of digital intraoral radiographs on the diagnosis of proximal caries. Materials and methods: In this in vitro study, 40 extracted teeth including 20 premolars and 20 molars with enamel lesions (white spot or dentin discoloration seen through the enamel) were mounted together in groups of eight inside the skull. Bitewing radiographic images of each dental group were obtained by a photostimulable phosphor plate sensor with exposure conditions of 8 mA, 70 kV, and 0.2 s. The images were reconstructed by the built‐in software and examined by two oral and maxillofacial radiologists in various settings of contrast, brightness, sharpness, noise, and γ. The teeth were then cut mesiodistally and the presence or absence of caries was confirmed by an oral and maxillofacial pathologist using a stereomicroscope. The data were then analyzed using the κ agreement coefficient, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy (α =.05). Results: Adjustment of brightness and contrast led to higher diagnostic performance with an accuracy of 82.5% and 83.8 (for observers 1 and 2, respectively) and 82.5% (for both observers), respectively. Noise adjustment was the least helpful approach for diagnosis of proximal dental caries among other adjustments, with an accuracy of 78.8% and 77.5% for observers 1 and 2, respectively. Conclusion: Brightness and contrast setting was more efficient in improving the diagnostic potential of bitewing radiographs compared to other adjustments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-rays have motivated the application of imaging techniques in Heritage Sciences, providing a tool that produces global information about the object. The radiography analysis generates information with physical meaning relating the material properties with the photon attenuation. In this work, the characterization of a digital radiography system is presented, and the basis of an analysis method for ceramics sherds is described, based on the study of histograms, which represent the distribution of pixel intensities that made the image. Thus, this study aims to provide a tool, based on a mathematical analysis, encompassing a Lorentzian fit to each image histogram and a cluster analysis, that leads to establish a contrast between ceramic pastes. By applying this method, we could distinguish six paste groups from a set of 275 ceramic objects (archaeological and contemporary) from the Maya region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a fully automated deep-learning (DL) model using digital radiography (DR) with relatively high accuracy for predicting the efficacy of non-vascularized fibular grafting (NVFG) and identifying suitable patients for this procedure. A retrospective analysis was conducted on osteonecrosis of femoral head patients who underwent NVFG between June 2009 and June 2021. All patients underwent standard preoperative anteroposterior (AP) and frog-lateral (FL) DR. Subsequently, the radiographs were pre-processed and labeled based on the follow-up results. The dataset was randomly divided into training and testing datasets. The DL-based prediction model was developed in the training dataset and its diagnostic performance was evaluated using the testing dataset. A total of 339 patients with 432 hips were included in this study, with a hip preservation success rate of 71.52% as of June 2023. The hips were randomly divided into a training dataset (n = 324) and a testing dataset (n = 108). The ensemble model in predicting the efficacy of NVFG, reaching an accuracy of 78.9%, a precision of 78.7%, a recall of 96.0%, a F1-score of 86.5%, and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.780. FL views (AUC, 0.71) exhibited better performance compared to AP views (AUC, 0.66). The proposed DL model using DR enables automatic and efficient prediction of NVFG efficacy without additional clinical and financial burden. It can be seamlessly integrated into various clinical scenarios, serving as a practical tool to identify suitable patients for NVFG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiographic testing is the most common method of non-destructive testing to detect discontinuities in industrial piping welds. Human interpretation of radiographic films is time-consuming and requires high degrees of expertise. Despite the significant advancements of deep learning techniques in related fields, such as medical radiography, prior research endeavors focused on weld discontinuities were constrained by the limitations stemming from a lack of training data and their inadequate representation of real-world conditions in the field. This paper introduces a comprehensive system that automatically detects welding zones, assesses film quality, and classifies weld discontinuities for the piping process. The proposed framework demonstrates superior generalization capabilities that bypass a single industry or piping size. The key advantages of our technique lie in its enhanced accuracy, rapid processing, and automatic interpretation of welding films across a wide range of image qualities. Consequently, it achieves remarkable detection and classification accuracy, offering substantial benefits for welding inspection and quality assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the impact of digital image post‐processing algorithms on various image quality (IQ) metrics of radiographic images under different exposure conditions. Methods: A custom‐made phantom constructed according to the instructions given in the IAEA Human Health Series No.39 publication was used, along with the respective software that automatically calculates various IQ metrics. Images with various exposure parameters were acquired with a digital radiography unit, which for each acquisition produces two images: one for‐processing (raw) and one for‐presentation (clinical). Various examination protocols were used, which incorporate diverse post‐processing algorithms. The IQ metrics' values (IQ‐scores) obtained were analyzed to investigate the effects of increasing incident air kerma (IAK) on the image receptor, tube potential (kVp), additional filtration, and examination protocol on image quality, and the differences between image type (raw or clinical). Results: The IQ‐scores were consistent for repeated identical exposures for both raw and clinical images. The effect that changes in exposure parameters and examination protocol had on IQ‐scores were different depending on the IQ metric and image type. The expected positive effect that increasing IAK and decreasing tube potential should have on IQ was clearly exhibited in two IQ metrics only, the signal difference‐to‐noise‐ratio (SDNR) and the detectability index (d'), for both image types. No effect of additional filtration on any of the IQ metrics was detected on images of either type. An interesting finding of the study was that for all different image acquisition selections the d' scores were larger in raw images, whereas the other IQ metrics were larger in clinical images for most of the cases. Conclusions: Since IQ‐scores of raw and their respective clinical images may be largely different, the same type of image should be consistently used for monitoring IQ constancy and when results from different X‐ray systems are compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuous improvement of broiler production performance, the frequent occurrence of leg problems has caused serious economic losses in many factories. In order to more efficiently detect and prevent broiler leg diseases, we propose an auxiliary detection system for broiler leg diseases based on deep learning. The system is divided into two parts. First, a digital radiography (DR) image of a broiler is taken through industrial computed tomography (CT), and then the improved deep-learning network Tibia-YOLO is used to detect the tibia; the detected results are then extracted and measured. Our improved Tibia-YOLO network uses the Content-Aware ReAssembly of Features (CARAFE) upsampling operator to avoid checkerboard artifacts and increase the generalization capabilities. Efficient multi-scale attention (EMA) and parallel network attention (ParNet) were added to the Tibia dataset at multiple scales (COCO2016), and there were improvements when testing on the three VOC2012 datasets. The mean average precision of tibia detection reached 90.8%, and the root mean square error (RMSE) for the tibia length was 3.37 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Radiographs are an integral part of detecting proximal caries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of contrast, brightness, noise, sharpness, and γ adjustment of digital intraoral radiographs on the diagnosis of proximal caries. Materials and methods In this in vitro study, 40 extracted teeth including 20 premolars and 20 molars with enamel lesions (white spot or dentin discoloration seen through the enamel) were mounted together in groups of eight inside the skull. Bitewing radiographic images of each dental group were obtained by a photostimulable phosphor plate sensor with exposure conditions of 8 mA, 70 kV, and 0.2 s. The images were reconstructed by the built‐in software and examined by two oral and maxillofacial radiologists in various settings of contrast, brightness, sharpness, noise, and γ. The teeth were then cut mesiodistally and the presence or absence of caries was confirmed by an oral and maxillofacial pathologist using a stereomicroscope. The data were then analyzed using the κ agreement coefficient, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy (α = .05). Results Adjustment of brightness and contrast led to higher diagnostic performance with an accuracy of 82.5% and 83.8 (for observers 1 and 2, respectively) and 82.5% (for both observers), respectively. Noise adjustment was the least helpful approach for diagnosis of proximal dental caries among other adjustments, with an accuracy of 78.8% and 77.5% for observers 1 and 2, respectively. Conclusion Brightness and contrast setting was more efficient in improving the diagnostic potential of bitewing radiographs compared to other adjustments.

Background: Dental radiography is an integral part of intraoral evaluation. Children are often uncomfortable during the placement of film or sensor due to the impingement of the soft tissues. Thus, the perception of pain with three intraoral radiographic methods in children was evaluated using three subjective pain rating scales. Aim: To evaluate the discomfort with three different techniques, that is, intraoral periapical (IOPA) radiograph, charge-coupled device (CCD), and photostimulable phosphor (PSP) luminescence (PSPL), using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (WBFPRS), numerical rating scale, and visual analog scale (VAS). Materials and Methods: A sample of 35 children aged 6-12 years were divided into two groups: group 1 (6-8 years) and group 2 (9-12 years). For each child, simulations of the three radiological methods (IOPA, CCD, and PSPL) were performed. The meaning of each facial expression on the WBFPRS, VAS, and the numbers on the numerical rating scale was explained to each child before the procedure. Statistical Analysis Used: A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and paired-samples t-test are used. Results: The results revealed that the CCD sensors elicited higher pain scores than those obtained with IOPA and PSPL, whereas the IOPA film showed the least pain score. Higher score values were obtained in group 1 than in group 2, indicating that children aged 6-8 years felt higher discomfort than the 9- to 12-year age group for the same procedure. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: It was concluded that conventional IOPA films were tolerated better by children when compared to PSP plates and CCD sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of a detailed investigation project focused on the painting materials and technical features used in Wallachia during the 17th and 18th century, the imperial icon “Mother of God with Child” from the Orthodox Church of the “Annunciation” in Râmnicu Vâlcea, Romania, was investigated before the restoration intervention. A minimally invasive multi-analytical approach consisting of high-resolution digital radiography, hyperspectral imaging, UV fluorescence imaging, portable X-ray fluorescence, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used. The results emphasized several key features, such as: the structure of the wooden panel, the nature of pigments and of the painting technique frequently used at that time, and various defects of the pictorial layer including traces of previous restoration works, most probably made at the end of the 18th century.

Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı, ışıkla uyarılabilen fosfor (Photostimulable Storage Phosphor, PSP) plakalarının ışınlama-tarama süreçleri arasındaki farklı tarama gecikmeleri (bekletme süresi) ve saklama koşullarının görüntülerindeki Ortalama Gri Değer (OGD) değişimine etkisini değerlendirmekti. Gereç ve Yöntem: Saklama koşuluna göre oluşturulan dört grupta [Tek Kılıf Aydınlık (TKA), Tek Kılıf Karanlık (TKK), Tek Kılıf Karton Aydınlık (TKKA), Tek Kılıf Karton Karanlık (TKKK)] farklı bekletme sürelerinde toplam 40 görüntü elde edildi. ImageJ (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD) programı ile görüntülerin OGD’leri ölçüldü. Saklama koşullarını karşılaştırmak için tek yönlü, bekletme sürelerini karşılaştırmak için iki yönlü tekrarlı ölçümlü ANOVA testleri kullanıldı. Her bir gruptaki bekletme süreleri ile 0 dk. (altın standart) OGD’lerin karşılaştırılması için eşleştirilmiş örneklemler t-testi uygulandı. p0.05). Altın standart dışındaki diğer bekletme süreleri karşılaştırıldığında, 24 saat bekletme süresi ile diğer bekletme süreleri OGD’leri arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark vardı (p

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital intraoral radiography for the detection of proximal caries adjacent to amalgam, e.max porcelain, and metal-ceramic restorations (MCRs). Materials and methods Parallel intraoral radiographs were obtained from 40 posterior teeth using PSP sensors. To obtain CBCT scans, the teeth were first radiographed alone, and were then positioned next to a tooth with an amalgam restoration, MCR, and e.max porcelain crown, and radiographed again. Two blinded observers scored radiographs using a four-point scale (0: absence of proximal caries, 1: enamel caries, 2: carious lesion extending to the outer half of dentin, 3: carious lesion extending to the inner half of dentin). Tooth sections were made, and the grade of caries was determined under a light microscope at x12 magnification. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of CBCT and intraoral radiographs were then calculated. Results Artifact-free CBCT scans and intraoral radiographs had the highest diagnostic accuracy (0.826 and 0.657, respectively) while CBCT images of the teeth next to the amalgam restorations (0.526) had the lowest accuracy. The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of the teeth next to the porcelain crowns and MCRs was 0.613 and 0.601, respectively. Conclusion Artifact-free CBCT images had higher diagnostic accuracy than intraoral radiography for the detection of all grades of proximal caries. The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of teeth adjacent to amalgam, porcelain, and MCRs was lower compared to intraoral radiographs and artifact-free CBCT images.

Introduction: Digital radiography seems necessary for overcoming educational problems and archiving radiographs taken from patients; nonetheless, the views of students and professors about this issue have been less studied. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the satisfaction of professors and students with the use of conventional and digital radiography in the Endodontics Department of Mashhad Dental School.Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on the professors of the Department of Root Therapy and 155 Dental Students in Mashhad. The research tool consisted of two researcher-made questionnaires. The first questionnaire was about the quality of the root therapy that was completed by the professors. The second questionnaire was about students' satisfaction with the use of digital and conventional radiography in the endodontics section. The information was recorded, and the data were then compared using Chi-square and Fisher tests.Results: The findings of this study demonstrated that from professors' point of view, digital imaging in dentistry had better quality, shorter time, and less error, and professors' satisfaction was significantly higher. Moreover, students had a more positive opinion of digital imaging in terms of quality, less time, less error, and less student congestion. Finally, students were more satisfied with digital imaging (P=0.05).Conclusion: As evidenced by the obtained results, it can be concluded that digital radiography improved the education and satisfaction of both groups of students and professors.

As part of a detailed investigation project focused on the painting materials and technical features used in Wallachia during the 17th and 18th century, the imperial icon "Mother of God with Child" from the Orthodox Church of the "Annunciation" in Râmnicu Vâlcea, Romania, was investigated before the restoration intervention. A minimally invasive multi-analytical approach consisting of high-resolution digital radiography, hyperspectral imaging, UV fluorescence imaging, portable X-ray fluorescence, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used. The results emphasized several key features, such as: the structure of the wooden panel, the nature of pigments and of the painting technique frequently used at that time, and various defects of the pictorial layer including traces of previous restoration works, most probably made at the end of the 18th century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: When using an anti‐scatter grid, a decrease in receptor dose caused by its X‐ray absorption seems to lead to the misperception that radiation dose needs to be increased even in digital radiography (DR). Objective: To demonstrate that there is no need to increase radiation dose in DR with a grid, based on a visual evaluation using an adult and a pediatric abdomen phantom (PAD and PPD, respectively). Materials and methods: Phantom images with and without a grid were obtained with exposure parameters determined based on a preliminarily measured signal‐to‐noise ratio improvement factor (SIF), an index for potential dose reduction when using a grid. In visual evaluation, four radiologists compared phantom images with a grid applied at different dose reduction rates (0% [no reduction], 18%, 36%, and 59% for PAD and 0% and 11% for PPD) against an image without a grid at the baseline dose (as the reference). They graded the overall image quality of the former relative to that of the latter (reference) on a 3‐point scale (3 = better, 2 = almost equal, 1 = worse). Results: The mean scores for dose reduction rates of 0%, 18%, 36%, and 59% were 3.00, 3.00, 2.75, and 1.00, respectively, for PAD; those for 0% and 11% were 2.13 and 1.63, respectively, for PPD. These results support the validity of our view that no dose increase is necessary when using an anti‐scatter grid. Actually, there is even a potential for improvement in image quality with dose reduction rates of ≤36% for PAD. Conclusion: It is worth reconsidering the necessity of increasing radiation dose in the DR imaging of the adult and pediatric abdomens with an anti‐scatter grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background External root resorption (ERR) has a multifactorial etiology and is difficult to diagnose, which means that is continues to be of research interest. This work mainly aims to determine whether external root resorption can be differentially detected in root-filled versus non-endodontically treated teeth using digital periapical radiography (DPR) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods The Checklist for Reporting In-vitro Studies (CRIS) guidelines were followed throughout this study. This experiment highlights the preparation and generation of standardized synthetic teeth measured on three-dimensional records converted into Digital Imaging and Communication on Medicine (DICOM) file format. Twelve replicate maxillary incisors were randomized into two groups: (G1) six non-endodontically treated, and (G2) six endodontically treated teeth. In both groups, actual tooth lengths of all specimens were measured and compared with measurements obtained using DPR and CBCT. Simulated ERR lesions [0.12, 0.18, 0.20 mm × 0.5 mm depth in the mesial, distal and palatal apical regions] were created progressively, radiographic images were recorded, and 24 DPRs and 96 CBCTs were obtained in total. Eight blinded, previously calibrated researchers made a total of 1920 measurements (using Horos Software). Data were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk, ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon rank post-hoc tests [Bonferroni correction in multiple comparison tests (p

Radiographic methods provide useful information about bone tissue changes, and radiographs have the advantage that they can be stored and reevaluated at any time. However, radiographic evaluations are subject to several sources of error. The purpose of this study was to analyze the maxillary bones by computer tomographic analysis, assessing the value of their density as a predictive element in the success of oral rehabilitation by classical or modern methods. In this study, we selected 35 patients for dental CT scans made with a Somatom Emotion device, Siemens in order to apply dental implants and removable prostheses. 20 women and 15 men aged between 60-80 years participated in the study . For comparison, 6 dental CT scans from the group of patients under the age of 65 were analyzed. The measurements were made on approximately symmetrical right-left areas. A line parallel to the long axis of the horizontal branch of the mandible, tangential to the lower edge, was drawn. The correlative aspects established between the patient’s sex, bone density and the dimensions of the edentulous ridges underline a prevalence, in percentage of 55%, of medium ridges in the frontal area, associated with the female sex and a D3 bone density, while medium ridges both frontally and laterally associated with D3 density and association with the male sex. The value of the CT examination in evaluating the quality of edentulous ridges and some foreign bodies and sinus inflammatory processes with the evaluation of the proximity of important anatomical structures as landmarks in implantology is evident.

Abstract Introduction Collimation of the primary beam is an important factor in radiography to reduce dose and improve image quality. The introduction of larger detector plates in direct digital radiography (DR) allows the exposed area to be calculated by removing cropping applied to the image. The aim of this study was to assess whether the exposed area was larger than a reference standard across five different projections on different body types, with the reference size being the corresponding cassette size used in traditional film/screen or computed radiography (CR). Method A retrospective clinical audit of five common musculoskeletal radiographic projections (AP knee, AP shoulder, horizontal beam lateral hip, lateral cervical spine and lateral facial bones), of 359 patients was undertaken. The electronic cropping was removed from projections, and the superior–inferior, antero‐posterior and medio‐lateral collimation size was measured, depending on the projection. The two measurements were multiplied to give an exposed field of view area. The three measurements were compared with a reference standard, being the size of the corresponding cassette size used in the department on film/screen or computed radiography. Results From the five projections, 1071 measurements were analysed. 416 (38.8%) of these measurements were less than or equal to the agreed reference standard. 655 (61.2%) were greater than the agreed reference standard. Conclusion The study demonstrates that the majority (61.2%) of the measurements taken were above the reference standard. This results in an increase in radiation dose to patients and detrimental impacts on image quality.

In radiography, an antiscatter grid is a well-known device for eliminating unexpected x-ray scatter. We investigate a new stationary grid artifact suppression method based on a nonsubsampled contourlet transform (NSCT) incorporated with Gaussian band-pass filtering. The proposed method has an advantage that extracts the Moiré components while minimizing the loss of image information and apply the prior information of Moiré component positions in multi-decomposition sub-band images. We implemented the proposed algorithm and performed a simulation and an experiment to demonstrate its viability. We did this experiment using an x-ray tube (M-113T, Varian, focal spot size: 0.1 mm), a flat-panel detector (ROSE-M Sensor, Aspenstate, pixel dimension: 3032 × 3800 pixels, pixel size: 0.076 mm), and carbon graphite-interspaced grids (JPI Healthcare, 18 cm × 24 cm, line density: 103 LP/inch and 150 LP/inch, ratio: 5:1, focal distance: 65 cm). Our results indicate that the proposed method successfully suppressed grid artifacts by reducing them without either reducing the spatial resolution or causing negative side effects. Consequently, we anticipate that the proposed method can improve image acquisition in a stationary grid x-ray system as well as in extended x-ray imaging.

During the last decades the process of obtaining digital medical images has advanced technologically, in such a way that they have become indispensable in the recognition of numerous diseases and in the application of different treatments; however, the implementation of digital radiography constitutes a challenge for professionals in this branch who do not have a complete training, so it is necessary to develop coherent strategies to facilitate its use. This paper offers some theoretical considerations about digital radiography as a diagnostic means, which implies a change in the practice of professionals in this specialty, who need to update their knowledge in relation to this technique, in order to get better their performance and establish accurate diagnoses that lead to effective treatments, and thus achieve the welfare and quality of life in the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elimination of necrotic and inflamed pulp tissue, dentin debris, and microorganisms is essential for the success of endodontic treatment. However, the root canal's complexity has led to incomplete cleaning and disinfection. This study aims to compare the efficacy of the penetrability of three different irrigation activating techniques to the apical third of the root canal. Sixty sound single-rooted human mandibular premolars are prepared with rotary instrumentation under continuous sodium hypochlorite irrigation. Three irrigation activation techniques are utilized: group 1 (n = 20), conventional needle irrigation (CN); group 2 (n = 20), side-vented endodontic needle irrigation (EN); and group 3 (n = 20), manual activation irrigation with gutta-percha cone (MA). The penetrability is assessed with the aid of a radiopaque irrigation solution using digital radiography in conjunction with cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) measurements. Data are analyzed using a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS), using multiple comparisons to compare the baseline and test values. One-way analysis of variance with post hoc analysis (Tukey honestly significant difference) is performed to detect the statistically significant differences between groups. Manual activation (MA) shows effective delivery of the irrigant into full WL, followed by endodontic needle (EN) and conventional (CN) methods of activation (p < 0.001). The results of the present study show that maximum penetrability of the irrigant is observed with manual activation (MA) using a gutta cone in comparison with the conventional needle (CN). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Preoperative assessment of pleural adhesion is crucial for appropriate surgical planning. This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the usefulness of motion analysis using dynamic chest radiography (DCR) for assessing pleural adhesions. Methods: Sequential chest radiographs of 146 lung cancer patients with or without pleural adhesions (n = 25/121) were obtained using a DCR system during respiration (registration number: 1729). The local motion vector was measured, and the percentage of poor motion area to the maximum expiration lung area (%lung area with poor motion) was calculated. Subsequently, percentage values ≥49.0% were considered to indicate pleural adhesions. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated to assess the prediction performance. The percentage of lung area with poor motion was compared between patients with and without pleural adhesions (p < 0.05). Results: DCR‐based motion analysis correctly predicted pleural adhesions in 21 out of 25 patients, with 47 false‐positive results (sensitivity, 84.0%; specificity, 61.2%; PPV, 30.9%; NPV, 94.9%). The lung with pleural adhesions showed a significantly greater %lung area with poor motion than the opposite lung in the same patient, similar to the cancerous lung in patients without pleural adhesions. Conclusion: On DCR‐based motion analysis, pleural adhesions could be indicated by an increase in the percentage of lung area with poor motion. Although the proposed method cannot identify the exact location of pleural adhesions, information regarding the presence or absence of pleural adhesions provided by DCR would help surgeons prepare for challenging surgeries and obtain informed consent from patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital intraoral radiography for the detection of proximal caries adjacent to amalgam, e.max porcelain, and metal-ceramic restorations (MCRs). Materials and methods: Parallel intraoral radiographs were obtained from 40 posterior teeth using PSP sensors. To obtain CBCT scans, the teeth were first radiographed alone, and were then positioned next to a tooth with an amalgam restoration, MCR, and e.max porcelain crown, and radiographed again. Two blinded observers scored radiographs using a four-point scale (0: absence of proximal caries, 1: enamel caries, 2: carious lesion extending to the outer half of dentin, 3: carious lesion extending to the inner half of dentin). Tooth sections were made, and the grade of caries was determined under a light microscope at x12 magnification. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of CBCT and intraoral radiographs were then calculated. Results: Artifact-free CBCT scans and intraoral radiographs had the highest diagnostic accuracy (0.826 and 0.657, respectively) while CBCT images of the teeth next to the amalgam restorations (0.526) had the lowest accuracy. The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of the teeth next to the porcelain crowns and MCRs was 0.613 and 0.601, respectively. Conclusion: Artifact-free CBCT images had higher diagnostic accuracy than intraoral radiography for the detection of all grades of proximal caries. The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of teeth adjacent to amalgam, porcelain, and MCRs was lower compared to intraoral radiographs and artifact-free CBCT images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital radiographic imaging technique plays an essential role in the non-destructive testing of gas turbine blades. Due to the scattered X-rays in the detection of gas turbine blade, the quality of digital radiographic image is limited, and the effective information may be missed, which makes it difficult to characterize defects. Based on the simple scattering model and dark channel priori theory, an enhancement method for digital radiographic images of gas turbine blades is presented in this paper. Using the digital radiographic testing system, the proposed method is verified in the detection of uncooled 3rd and 4th stage gas turbine blades which is composed of nickel-based high temperature alloys. The experimental results show that the proposed method can dramatically enhance the visibility of digital radiographic images, including the improvement of contrast-noise ratio and sensitivity. In the meantime, the tiny defects that are not visible in the initial image can be identified and the detection can be more accurately characterized in the enhanced digital radiographic images. The proposed method can assist in de-scattering applications and improve the visibility of digital radiographic images without precise information about the X-ray condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Digital radiography has long been established in veterinary clinics, leading to increased use of digital systems in reptile species as well. In this study, we used different digital radiography systems on cadavers of bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps). We aimed to examine the impact of a radiation dose reduction on the image quality and the assessment of defined skeletal structures. We employed a blinded assessment and a defined scoring system to evaluate the techniques tested. Our results demonstrate that both a 50% and a 75% reduction in the radiation dose significantly decreased image assessments. These findings highlight the need for correct radiation dose protocols to produce high-quality radiographs in reptile species. Three different digital detector systems were used to study the effect of a defined radiation dose reduction on the image quality of digital radiographs in bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps). A series of radiographs of seven bearded-dragon cadavers with a body mass ranging from 132 g to 499 g were taken in dorsoventral projection. The digital systems employed included two computed radiography systems (CR) (one system with a needle-based and one with a powdered-based scintillator) and one direct radiography system (DR). Three levels of the detector dose were selected: A standard dose (defined based on the recommended exposure value of the CRP, D/100%), a half dose (D/50%), and a quarter dose (D/25%). Four image criteria and one overall assessment were defined for each of four anatomic skeletal regions (femur, rib, vertebra, and phalanx) and evaluated blinded by four veterinarians using a predefined scoring system. The results were assessed for differences between reviewers (interobserver variability), radiography systems, and dosage settings (intersystem variability). The comparison of the ratings was based on visual grading characteristic (VGC) analysis. Dose reduction led to significantly lower scores in all criteria by every reviewer, indicating a linear impairment of image quality in different skeletal structures in bearded dragons. Scores did not differ significantly between the different systems used, indicating no advantage in using a computed or direct radiography system to evaluate skeletal structures in bearded dragons. The correlation was significant (p ≤ 0.05) for interobserver variability in 100% of the cases, with correlation coefficients between 0.50 and 0.59. While demonstrating the efficacy of the use of digital radiography in bearded dragons and the similar quality in using different computed or direct radiography systems, this study also highlights the importance of the appropriate level of detector dose and demonstrates the limits of post-processing algorithm to compensate for insufficient radiation doses in bearded dragons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To test the evaluability of inverted grayscale (IGS), a digital editing method on plain X-ray images, in diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: Standard and IGS views of X-rays of 15 patients who were randomly selected among patients with RA or suspected inflammatory arthropathy who applied to our outpatient clinic consecutively between June 2020 and September 2022, were evaluated by 3 rheumatology specialists with at least 2 years of rheumatology experience. The presence of findings of RA and osteoarthritis (OA) and how confident they were in their decisions were assessed. The evaluations of the rheumatologists were compared with the evaluation of the radiologist, and the inter-rater agreement was calculated with the Cohen Kappa (CK) test. Inter-rater agreement according to the coefficient of variation obtained with the CK test was defined as; <0.20: no agreement, 0.21-0.40: poor agreement, 0.41-0.60: moderate agreement, 0.61-0.80: good agreement, 0.80-1: excellent agreement. Results: In evaluating images of patients with RA, a low-moderate agreement was found between the raters. While the agreement level of less experienced specialists for IGS and standard view differed, the agreement level of the more experienced rheumatologist was similar for TGT and standard views. The Likert scale score, which expresses how confident the evaluators are in their decisions, was high for all researchers. Conclusion: IGS is a method that rheumatologists can easily evaluate. However, large-scale studies are needed to evaluate the additional contribution of IGS in detecting RA findings, especially by less experienced specialists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The well‐referenced structural shielding design NCRP Report No. 147 uses workload information based on self‐reported film‐screen data from the AAPM Task Group 9 survey. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical workload distributions of modern digital radiography (DR) systems in general hospital and pediatric‐only practices. A retrospective analysis of DR imaging data on four radiographic systems in a hospital practice and two radiographic systems in a pediatric practice, through a custom clinical DICOM header analytics program. A total of 203, 294 exposures from the general hospital practice and 25,415 from the pediatric practice from 2019 and 2021 were included. Values for kVp, mAs, and detector type (wall bucky, table bucky, or free detector) were extracted. For each exam, mAs was accumulated in a kVp histogram with bins 5 kVp wide and further parsed by detector type. Total workload was calculated by summing all exposures, then normalized by the number of patients. The median (25th and 75th percentile) workload in the hospital practice was 0.43 (0.22, 1.13) mA‐min per patient, while the average was 1.36 ± 3.08. Pediatric data yielded a median (25th and 75th percentile) of 0.10 (0.05, 0.23) and an average of 0.29 ± 0.69 mA‐min per patient. Mean number of patients per week was 230 adult and 57 pediatric. Hospital workload data is approximately 44% less than the NCRP Report No. 147 value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reject rate analysis is considered an integral part of a diagnostic radiography quality control (QC) program. A rejected image is a patient radiograph that was not presented to a radiologist for diagnosis and that contributes unnecessary radiation dose to the patient. Reject rates that are either too high or too low may suggest systemic department shortcomings in QC mechanisms. Due to the lack of standardization, reject data often cannot be easily compared between radiography systems from different vendors. The purpose of this report is to provide guidance to help standardize data elements that are required for comprehensive reject analysis and to propose data reporting and workflows to enable an effective and comprehensive reject rate monitoring program. Essential data elements, a proposed schema for classifying reject reasons, and workflow implementation options are recommended in this task group report. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Dentistry has made major progress due to modern advancements in radiology. It would be interesting to examine the correlation of dental science with the labor market, as well as to assess dentists' adaption to nowadays' scientific and financial circumstances. This research aims to investigate the opinions of dentists in Thessaloniki, Greece, with regard to choosing the appropriate radiographic examinations in various clinical cases, and to canvass their knowledge of radiation protection. Material and Methods: Our sample was comprised of 7% of private dentists working in the urban complex within the borders of Thessaloniki, Greece. Self-referential multiple choice questionnaires were distributed via email. For the statistical analysis, GoogleForms was utilized, and objectivity was guaranteed by ensuring participants' anonymity. Results: The replies underwent statistical analysis with the use of Google Forms, and through this process charts have been produced. Orthopantomograph is the most usual radiographic examination for new patients and for the evaluation of complications. Dentists' age and gender seem to affect their radiographic choices in everyday clinical practice. Regarding intraoral radiography, the paralleling technique is more usually applied. Moreover, the findings suggest the need for dentists' constant education on radiation protection. Last but not least, most participants choose digital intraoral radiography. Conclusions: Dentists tend to seek assistance from radiological laboratories for special radiographies, such as cone-beam computed tomography, as well as in cases of diagnostic dilemma. They also recognize digitalization's contribution to keeping health records. Consequently, clinicians' additional education, financial motives for the upgrade of radiological equipment and records' digitalization are fundamental prerequisites for modern dentistry.

Introduction: Postmenopausal women are more at risk of osteoporosis than men of the same age. Osteoporosis is often undetected due to lack of symptoms. The aim of the study was to explore the potential of gray value (GV) in clinical panoramic radiographs as a screening method for osteoporosis. Cross-sectional comparative study using secondary data. GV of mandible in panoramic radiographs between male and female of several age groups were compared. X-ray parameters were considered. Materials and Methods: A total of 294 panoramic radiographs were obtained from regular clinical activity regardless of mA (3.3–8 mA), and divided into sexes and ages 31 to 45, 46 to 60, and 61 to 75 years old. A subset of 60 panoramic radiographs obtained by a narrow range of mA (5.7–6.4 mA) were randomly selected and then divided into sexes and ages 32 to 53 and 54 to 75 years old. Average GV was recorded. Average GV between age groups (divided by sexes) was evaluated by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for groups with unrestricted mA, and unpaired t-test for restricted mA. Results: Average GV without mA restriction were not significantly different between age groups in men (P = 0.883) and women (P = 0.617). If mA is restricted, average GV was significantly different between age groups in women (P = 0.007) but were not significantly different between age groups in men (P = 0.386). Conclusion: GV obtained from panoramic radiographs may have potential in detecting osteoporosis if x-ray parameters are kept in narrow range. It would not have the same screening potential if the range of x-ray parameters are too wide.

This study aimed to compare the accuracy of three types of apex locators versus digital radiography for working length (WL) determination. This experimental study was conducted on 58 extracted maxillary premolars. The teeth were decoronated, the access cavity was prepared, and WL was determined using a #15 K-file to serve as reference. The WL was then measured by Woodpex V, Woodpex III, and Root ZX apex locators in the presence of 0.9% saline, and also on a photostimulable phosphor plate (PSP) digital radiograph taken by the parallel technique. The values were compared with the actual WL using the paired t-test (alpha = 0.05). Digital radiography, Root ZX, Woodpex V, and Woodpex III determined the WL within ±0.5 mm from the actual value in 84.48%, 100%, 89.66%, and 87.93% of the cases, respectively. Woodpex V (p = 0.039), Woodpex III (p = 0.001), and Root ZX (p = 0.001) significantly over-estimated the WL. The WL measured on digital radiographs was not significantly different from the actual WL (p = 0.213). The position of the apical foramen (central/lateral) had no significant effect on the accuracy of WL determination by different techniques (p >0.05). Within the limitations of this in vitro study, all the tested modalities showed acceptable accuracy for WL determination in maxillary premolars.

Background: External root resorption (ERR) has a multifactorial etiology and is difficult to diagnose, which means that is continues to be of research interest. This work mainly aims to determine whether external root resorption can be differentially detected in root-filled versus non-endodontically treated teeth using digital periapical radiography (DPR) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: The Checklist for Reporting In-vitro Studies (CRIS) guidelines were followed throughout this study. This experiment highlights the preparation and generation of standardized synthetic teeth measured on three-dimensional records converted into Digital Imaging and Communication on Medicine (DICOM) file format. Twelve replicate maxillary incisors were randomized into two groups: (G1) six non-endodontically treated, and (G2) six endodontically treated teeth. In both groups, actual tooth lengths of all specimens were measured and compared with measurements obtained using DPR and CBCT. Simulated ERR lesions [0.12, 0.18, 0.20 mm × 0.5 mm depth in the mesial, distal and palatal apical regions] were created progressively, radiographic images were recorded, and 24 DPRs and 96 CBCTs were obtained in total. Eight blinded, previously calibrated researchers made a total of 1920 measurements (using Horos Software). Data were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk, ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon rank post-hoc tests [Bonferroni correction in multiple comparison tests (p < 0.05)]. Results: ICC values for intra- and inter-examiner agreement were appropriate. DPR overestimated ERR detection compared to the actual and CBCT measurements [Mean diff = 0.765 and 0.768, respectively]. CBCT diagnosis of ERR lesions in specimens without root canal treatment was significantly more accurate than DPR diagnoses on both non-endodontically and endodontically-treated specimens [p = 0.044; p = 0.037, respectively]. There was an 18.5% reduction in sensitivity in all DPR diagnoses made on endodontic teeth versus those made on non-endodontically treated teeth. For the smallest ERR lesions, this sensitivity was even more marked, with 27.8 and 25% less sensitivity, respectively. Conclusions: The results of this study highlight that both CBCT and DPR are good diagnostic methods for ERR. Nevertheless, root canal filling material influences diagnostic capability in ERR. The clinical significance was that the presence of intracanal material reduces the detection and diagnosis of ERR by DPR in teeth with root canal treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is a common disease in aging dogs and mostly affects the synovial joint. Non-invasive imaging modalities, such as digital radiography (DR) and computed tomography (CT), are often used to diagnose and evaluate the severity of OA. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic method for the assessment of OA, is considered the gold standard in humans, and has been applied in several canine experimental studies. However, the value of MRI in diagnosing spontaneous canine OA and the comparison of different imaging modalities have seldom been addressed. This study compared multiple noninvasive imaging modalities in canine spontaneous stifle OA cases. The results showed that MRI provides the most comprehensive and superior lesion detection sensitivity for ligament, meniscus, cartilage, and synovial effusions. DR provides adequate bony structure information, while CT provides the most delicate images of bony structure lesions. These imaging findings may provide further understanding of the disease and help clinicians draft a more precise treatment plan. Canine stifle joint osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by damage and degeneration of the articular cartilage and subchondral bone, bony hypertrophy at the margins, and synovial joint membrane changes. Non-invasive imaging modalities, such as digital radiography (DR), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), can be used to describe these changes. However, the value of MRI in diagnosing spontaneous canine OA and the comparison of different imaging modalities have seldom been addressed. This study compared multiple noninvasive imaging modalities in canine spontaneous stifle OA cases. Four client-owned dogs with five spontaneously affected OA stifle joints were recruited and underwent DR, CT, and MRI. Information on osteophytes/enthesophytes, ligament/tendon lesions, synovial effusion and membrane thickening, subchondral bone lesions, and meniscal and cartilage lesions were scored and compared. The results showed that MRI provides the most comprehensive and superior lesion detection sensitivity for ligament, meniscus, cartilage, and synovial effusions. DR provides adequate bony structure information, while CT provides the most delicate images of bony structure lesions. These imaging findings may provide further understanding of the disease and help clinicians draft a more precise treatment plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Collimation of the primary beam is an important factor in radiography to reduce dose and improve image quality. The introduction of larger detector plates in direct digital radiography (DR) allows the exposed area to be calculated by removing cropping applied to the image. The aim of this study was to assess whether the exposed area was larger than a reference standard across five different projections on different body types, with the reference size being the corresponding cassette size used in traditional film/screen or computed radiography (CR). Method: A retrospective clinical audit of five common musculoskeletal radiographic projections (AP knee, AP shoulder, horizontal beam lateral hip, lateral cervical spine and lateral facial bones), of 359 patients was undertaken. The electronic cropping was removed from projections, and the superior–inferior, antero‐posterior and medio‐lateral collimation size was measured, depending on the projection. The two measurements were multiplied to give an exposed field of view area. The three measurements were compared with a reference standard, being the size of the corresponding cassette size used in the department on film/screen or computed radiography. Results: From the five projections, 1071 measurements were analysed. 416 (38.8%) of these measurements were less than or equal to the agreed reference standard. 655 (61.2%) were greater than the agreed reference standard. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that the majority (61.2%) of the measurements taken were above the reference standard. This results in an increase in radiation dose to patients and detrimental impacts on image quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of apex locator, digital periapical radiography, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for determining the root canal working length (WL) in teeth with external root resorption (ERR). Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, the sample consisted of 54 extracted permanent single-rooted human teeth. ERRs were performed at the 3 mm apical root using 65% of nitric acid for 24 h. After determining the actual WL by K-file #10 (gold standard) with the visualization method, the teeth were mounted in alginate and the WL of each tooth was determined using the electronic apex locator (EAL) equipped with a K-file #15. The teeth were mounted with wax in the teeth sockets of a dry human mandible, and the images were obtained by digital phosphor plate receptors and CBCT scans. The mean registered WL of each method was statistically compared with the gold standard WL using one-way ANOVA with P < 0.001. Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of actual WL was 16.00 ± 2.24. The mean ± SD of WLs determined by CBCT, EAL, and digital radiography were 15.38 ± 2.19, 15.52 ± 2.32, and 16.83 ± 2.20, respectively. This study showed that the mean measured WL with ERR in all methods was significantly different from the actual WL (P < 0.001). Conclusion: This study showed that there was a significant difference between the actual mean WL and the EAL, digital periapical radiography, and CBCT mean WL. Thus, the combination of EAL and CBCT could be a reliable method for determining WL in the presence of ERR.

With the continuous improvement of broiler production performance, the frequent occurrence of leg problems has caused serious economic losses in many factories. In order to more efficiently detect and prevent broiler leg diseases, we propose an auxiliary detection system for broiler leg diseases based on deep learning. The system is divided into two parts. First, a digital radiography (DR) image of a broiler is taken through industrial computed tomography (CT), and then the improved deep-learning network Tibia-YOLO is used to detect the tibia; the detected results are then extracted and measured. Our improved Tibia-YOLO network uses the Content-Aware ReAssembly of Features (CARAFE) upsampling operator to avoid checkerboard artifacts and increase the generalization capabilities. Efficient multi-scale attention (EMA) and parallel network attention (ParNet) were added to the Tibia dataset at multiple scales (COCO2016), and there were improvements when testing on the three VOC2012 datasets. The mean average precision of tibia detection reached 90.8%, and the root mean square error (RMSE) for the tibia length was 3.37 mm.

Introduction: Postmenopausal women are more at risk of osteoporosis than men of the same age. Osteoporosis is often undetected due to lack of symptoms. The aim of the study was to explore the potential of gray value (GV) in clinical panoramic radiographs as a screening method for osteoporosis. Cross-sectional comparative study using secondary data. GV of mandible in panoramic radiographs between male and female of several age groups were compared. X-ray parameters were considered. Materials and Methods: A total of 294 panoramic radiographs were obtained from regular clinical activity regardless of mA (3.3-8 mA), and divided into sexes and ages 31 to 45, 46 to 60, and 61 to 75 years old. A subset of 60 panoramic radiographs obtained by a narrow range of mA (5.7-6.4 mA) were randomly selected and then divided into sexes and ages 32 to 53 and 54 to 75 years old. Average GV was recorded. Average GV between age groups (divided by sexes) was evaluated by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for groups with unrestricted mA, and unpaired t-test for restricted mA. Results: Average GV without mA restriction were not significantly different between age groups in men (P =0.883) and women (P =0.617). If mA is restricted, average GV was significantly different between age groups in women (P = 0.007) but were not significantly different between age groups in men (P =0.386). Conclusion: GV obtained from panoramic radiographs may have potential in detecting osteoporosis if x-ray parameters are kept in narrow range. It would not have the same screening potential if the range of x-ray parameters are too wide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the accuracy of three types of apex locators versus digital radiography for working length (WL) determination. This experimental study was conducted on 58 extracted maxillary premolars. The teeth were decoronated, the access cavity was prepared, and WL was determined using a #15 K-file to serve as reference. The WL was then measured by Woodpex V, Woodpex III, and Root ZX apex locators in the presence of 0.9% saline, and also on a photostimulable phosphor plate (PSP) digital radiograph taken by the parallel technique. The values were compared with the actual WL using the paired t-test (alpha = 0.05). Digital radiography, Root ZX, Woodpex V, and Woodpex III determined the WL within ±0.5 mm from the actual value in 84.48%, 100%, 89.66%, and 87.93% of the cases, respectively. Woodpex V (p = 0.039), Woodpex III (p = 0.001), and Root ZX (p = 0.001) significantly over-estimated the WL. The WL measured on digital radiographs was not significantly different from the actual WL (p = 0.213). The position of the apical foramen (central/lateral) had no significant effect on the accuracy of WL determination by different techniques (p >0.05). Within the limitations of this in vitro study, all the tested modalities showed acceptable accuracy for WL determination in maxillary premolars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal injection molding has undergone great growth in the last years and is widely used in the manufacturing of small-sized and geometrically complex metal parts in high-volume production series in many applications. This paper makes overview of the integrity evaluation of metal injection molding production. Digital radiography can automatize the process of controlling various discontinuities inside the material, with sensitivity acceptable by the standard. Image processing through software Rythm Review 2.2, allows the detection of discontinuities in complicated geometric shapes. Tests were made on items with thicknesses 3 – up to 8 mm, with complicated geometry. The result is satisfactory in terms of localization and evaluation of defects in both dimensions and typology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effect of the exposure parameters on image quality (IQ) metrics of phantom images, obtained automatically using software or from visual evaluation. Methods: Three commercial phantoms and a homemade phantom constructed according to the instructions given in the IAEA Human Health Series No. 39 publication were used, along with the respective software that estimate automatically various IQ metrics. Images with various exposure parameters were acquired in a digital radiography (DR) unit. For the commercial phantoms, visual evaluations were also performed. The IQ scores obtained were analyzed to investigate the effects of increasing incident air kerma (IAK), tube potential (kVp), additional filtration, and acquisition protocol on IQ. Results: The effects of the exposure parameters on the IQ metrics, determined with the commercial and the IAEA phantoms, were not the same. For example, clear trends of improvement of IQ scores with increased IAK and reduction of most IQ scores with increased kVp were observed mostly with the IAEA phantom, but not with the commercial phantoms (for both automatic and visual scoring methods). For all phantoms, the maximum variations in IQ scores observed for repeated identical exposures were almost always below 10% with automatic evaluation whereas, for visual evaluation, reached 17%. Conclusions: Failure to detect some expected trends with the complex commercial phantoms may be attributed to the fact that IQ in DR is more strongly affected by the post‐processing procedures, which may mask the effect of other parameters on IQ, something that was not observed with the simple IAEA phantom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of understanding in the performance of flexible noise control (FNC) processing, which is used in digital radiography on a scanner vendor and has four parameters each involving multiple options. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of FNC on portable chest imaging. An anthropomorphic chest phantom was imaged using a clinical chest program with 85 kV and five radiation dose levels at 40″ source‐to‐image distance with software‐based scatter reduction method. All images were processed without and with FNC. Noise analysis was performed in two regions of interest (ROI) on subtracted noise‐only images, and line profiles were generated through a lung‐rib interface. In addition, noise power spectra (NPS) analysis was performed in solid water phantoms of 10 and 20 cm thicknesses, using the same acquisition program and a range of dose levels. Last, feedback on retrospectively deidentified, reprocessed, and randomized clinical images from 20 portable chest exams was gathered from two thoracic radiologists. Noise reduction performances of FNC were demonstrated, with the level depending on specific FNC parameters, dose levels, ROI placement, and phantom sizes. Higher frequency textural patterns were revealed through the NPS analysis, which varied based on FNC parameters, dose levels, and phantom sizes. Overall, the vendor default parameter FGA0.5 yielded the highest noise reduction and textural artifacts. Radiologist feedback showed consistent preference of no FNC due to the presence of textural artifacts in the FNC‐processed images. An algorithm improvement to avoid introducing artifacts would be desired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]