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Low back pain is a common and significant health issue worldwide, affecting about 80% of the population at some point in their lives. It is caused by a variety of factors, both spinal and extra-spinal. The use of imaging techniques, such as MRI, has revolutionized the diagnosis and understanding of low back pain. In recent years, there has been increased attention on the assessment of paraspinal muscles, which play a crucial role in spinal stability. A new study in the Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging explores the use of magnetic resonance elastography, a technique that measures the stiffness of muscles, in assessing lumbosacral musculature. This research provides important insights into the reproducibility of this technique and its potential role in diagnosing and understanding low back disorders. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate how closely analysis of bone quality performed using the bone mineral density (BMD) values obtained by quantitative computerized tomography (QCT) reflected the histologic bone density. Materials and Methods: Eighteen patients requiring implant therapy underwent CT scanning. Their data were processed using Image Master software, and the BMD was calculated by measuring the Hounsfield units and relating those values to a phantom (Calibration Phantom, Quantitative Technologies). Each patient wore a radiographic-surgical template in which titanium cylinders were placed as a drilling guide for preparation of the implant site. The mouth regions where the titanium guides were placed (on the CT images and in the patient's mouth) corresponded to the implant sites where the BMD was measured and where tissue specimens for histomorphometric analysis retrieved. Forty specimens measuring 6 mm in length and 2 mm in diameter were obtained. Histomorphometric analysis was performed by digitizing the images, which were subsequently analyzed using the image analysis software IAS 2000. The bone volume (BV) was calculated as a percentage by dividing the area occupied by the mineralized bone over the entire microscopic field. Results: The results of the statistical analysis showed a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.691 between the BV and BMD values, with a P value < 0.01, which was considered significant. Discussion and Conclusion: The results of this study support the use of QCT to assess the bone quality before implant placement to improve the planning of implant treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Lateral cephalometric films were examined for their validity as a tool for the postoperative evaluation of palatal implant placement. Materials and Methods: Cephalometric and histometric data of 20 partially edentulous human cadaveric maxillae were compared. Lateral cephalograms of the specimens were made, and the palatal complex was pencil traced. In addition, low-dose dental computerized tomography (CT) scans were obtained from every specimen. Based on the CT data, palatal implants (Orthosystem; Institut Straumann, Waldenburg, Switzerland) were placed. Postimplantation, another lateral cephalometric film was recorded. The specimens were prepared for histologic examination. The preoperative tracings were superimposed on the postoperative cephalometric films. Results: Of 20 implants placed, 12 were 4 mm long and 8 were 6 mm long. The distance between the cranial end of the implants and the nasal floor on microscopy ranged from 0.3 to 9.3 mm. Perforation of the nasal floor was absent throughout on intraoperative probing, while 2 implants projected beyond the nasal floor on histologic analysis of the specimens. An analysis of the superimposed preand postoperative cephalograms showed 5 implants projecting beyond the nasal floor. Histologically, only 1 of these projecting implants had actually caused perforation of the palatal complex. A comparison between the histometric and the cephalometric data showed that cephalometry, on average, imaged the palatal complex 0.8 mm below the actual anatomic site. Discussion and Conclusions: Twenty percent of palatal implants projecting beyond the nasal floor were false-positive records on the postoperative lateral cephalograms. Despite CT scans, 10% of the implants placed caused fenestration of the nasal cavity by histologic evidence. If the palatal complex was perforated, intraoperative probing with a periodontal probe did not confirm the perforation. Bone perforations up to 1.3 mm did not necessarily result in frank perforation of the nasal mucosa. Two-dimensional images could not be related to actual penetrations into the nasal cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The relationship between computerized tomography (CT) values of bone surrounding endosseous implants and the cutting torque values required for self-tapping during implant placement was examined for the purpose of predicting the initial stability (bone quality) during implant placement by presurgical CT scan examinations and determining whether it can be quantified. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of 13 subjects with 56 implants. Sites for implant placement were determined based on CT data using implant planning software. The average CT values of the bone surrounding the simulated implants were calculated by the software. Using a stereolithographic drill guide, implants were placed at the locations indicated by the protocol. The cutting torque values required for self-tapping were measured during implant placement. The resulting CT values and cutting torque values were analyzed statistically for correlation. Results: The correlation was considered significant at a level of .01 or less, and the correlation coefficient was 0.77. Discussion: There was a strong correlation between CT values and cutting torque values in the clinical cases evaluated. These results indicate that it may be possible to predict and quantify initial implant stability and bone quality from presurgical CT diagnosis and implant simulation. Conclusion: Presurgical CT examination may be an effective technique for predicting initial stability of the implant and bone quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract During the life cycle of an oil well the cement paste is subjected to various forms of deterioration which affect its durability. One of these forms of deterioration is due to the effect of elevated temperatures that can reach 350 °C. In the present study, class G cement paste cylindrical specimens were subjected to temperatures of 100 °C, 200 °C and 450 °C for 1 h. The temperatures of 100 °C and 200 °C were chosen due to the in service operation of an oil well while 450 °C was selected based on the results of previous studies. X-ray computed tomography (microCT) was used to generate three-dimensional images of the internal structure of the specimens before and after the heating procedure, and to quantitatively assess the evolution of pores and cracks. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and mechanical tests were performed with the intention of making a correlation with the results of microCT. The increasing appearance of cracks with increasing temperature was evident and expected. In this study this growth could be visualized in 3D and quantified. Finally, as a partial conclusion, the Class G Oil Well Cement Paste can be used for operations with in service temperatures up to 200 °C, as it showed small amounts of narrow cracks and the mechanical tests showed that the strength of this material did not decrease. Highlights • The microCT was efficient for visualization of pores and cracks in 3D in specimens of class G oil well cement. • This technique can also be applied to other materials that have similar defects. • There is appearance of few cracks in the specimens submitted to 100 °C and 200 °C. • MicroCT images of the specimens submitted to 450 °C showed the appearance of many cracks. • The cracks that appeared could be related to the results of XRD and mechanical tests. • In general, we can say that the material behaves well up to 200 °C. • Probably it can be used for operations with service temperatures up to 200 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We have investigated proton irradiation induced Nb redistribution in Zr-xNb alloy (x = 0.4, 0.5, 1.0) by using Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) and Atom Probe Tomography (APT). Initially without an irradiation effect, the Zr matrix only contains βNb and native Laves phase native precipitates. However, after 2 MeV proton irradiation at 350 °C, STEM/EDS showed irradiation induced precipitation of Nb-rich needle-like particles (up to ∼100 nm in length) in the Zr matrix. APT also revealed that Fe- and Nb -enriched nano-clusters (less than 20 nm diameter) are present in the Zr matrix for Zr-0.5Nb and Zr-1.0Nb. Irradiation was found to reduce the matrix Nb concentration in the Zr solid solution, This reduction may contribute to the improved corrosion resistance of ZrNb alloys in the reactor environment at high burnup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Near-field and far-field high-energy diffraction microscopy and microcomputed tomography X-ray techniques were used to study a bulk single crystal nickel‑titanium shape memory alloy sample subjected to thermal cycling under a constant applied load. Three-dimensional in situ reconstructions of the austenite microstructure are presented, including the structure and distribution of emergent grain boundaries. After 1 cycle, the subgrain structure is significantly refined, and heterogeneous Σ3 and Σ9 grain boundaries emerge. The low volume and uneven dispersion of the emergent Σ boundaries across the volume show why previous transmission electron microscopy investigations of Σ grain boundary formation were inconsistent. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer-assisted tomography was used to demonstrate bone topography and density in cadavers simulating potential dental implant patients. Results suggest that this radiographic modality could significantly augment or replace existing diagnostic media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implant diagnostic methods using computed tomography with bariumcoated templates have revealed the relationship between the optimal final tooth position and the residual alveolar process or ridge. While information with regard to emergence axis, anatomic limitations, fixture length, buccolingual cantilever, and prediction of the the final prosthetic design is available, presurgical information relating to the reconstruction potential of smile zone deformities remains elusive. The use of a complete provisional wax-up and the modification of a barium-coated template design can provide the implant team with presurgical information regarding the need for augmentation of hard tissue and soft tissue and the volume of tissue needed for reconstruction. This information can assist the implant team in the development of realistic treatment objectives and in more accurately addressing the needs and concerns of the patient during presurgical treatment planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of imaging modalities are available for the preoperative evaluation of potential implant sites. The pantomograph provides initial screening information. Cephalometric films are most useful in analyzing the incisor regions. Tomography can provide cross-sectional views of segments at a relatively low patient radiation dose. Computed tomography is a superior method when the analysis of complete arches is required. Experimental designs of postoperative radiologic evaluation of small changes in bone height require reproducible image geometry and the evaluation of intraobserver error. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To quantify the effect of IV contrast, tube current and slice thickness on skeletal muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and density (SMD) on routine CT.Methods: CSA and SMD were computed on 216 axial CT images obtained at the L3 level in 72 patients with variations in IV contrast, slice thickness and tube current. Intra-patient mean difference (MD), 95 % CI and limits of agreement were calculated using the Bland-Altman approach. Inter- and intra-analyst agreement was evaluated.Results: IV contrast significantly increased CSA by 1.88 % (MD 2.33 cm2; 95 % CI 1.76-2.89) and SMD by 5.99 % (p<0.0001). Five mm slice thickness significantly increased mean CSA by 1.11 % compared to 2 mm images (1.32 cm2; 0.78-1.85) and significantly decreased SMD by 11.64 % (p<0.0001). Low tube current significantly decreased mean CSA by 4.79 % (6.44 cm2; 3.78-9.10) and significantly increased SMD by 46.46 % (p<0.0001). Inter- and intra-analyst agreement was excellent.Conclusions: IV contrast, slice thickness and tube current significantly affect CSA and SMD. Investigators designing and analysing clinical trials using CT for body composition analysis should report CT acquisition parameters and consider the effect of slice thickness, IV contrast and tube current on myometric data.Key Points: • Intravenous contrast, slice thickness and tube current significantly affect myometric data. • Image acquisition parameter variations may obscure intrapatient muscle differences on serial measurements. • Investigators using CT for body composition analysis should report CT acquisition parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the feasibility and diagnostic value of free-breathing, radial, stack-of-stars three-dimensional (3D) gradient echo (GRE) sequence ("golden angle") on dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI of gastric cancer.Methods: Forty-three gastric cancer patients were divided into cooperative and uncooperative groups. Respiratory fluctuation was observed using an abdominal respiratory gating sensor. Those who breath-held for more than 15 s were placed in the cooperative group and the remainder in the uncooperative group. The 3-T MRI scanning protocol included 3D GRE and conventional breath-hold VIBE (volume-interpolated breath-hold examination) sequences, comparing images quantitatively and qualitatively. DCE-MRI parameters from VIBE images of normal gastric wall and malignant lesions were compared.Results: For uncooperative patients, 3D GRE scored higher qualitatively, and had higher SNRs (signal-to-noise ratios) and CNRs (contrast-to-noise ratios) than conventional VIBE quantitatively. Though 3D GRE images scored lower in qualitative parameters compared with conventional VIBE for cooperative patients, it provided images with fewer artefacts. DCE parameters differed significantly between normal gastric wall and lesions, with higher Ve (extracellular volume) and lower Kep (reflux constant) in gastric cancer.Conclusions: The free-breathing, golden-angle, radial stack-of-stars 3D GRE technique is feasible for DCE-MRI of gastric cancer. Dynamic enhanced images can be used for quantitative analysis of this malignancy.Key Points: • Golden-angle radial stack-of-stars VIBE aids gastric cancer MRI diagnosis. • The 3D GRE technique is suitable for patients unable to suspend respiration. • Method scored higher in the qualitative evaluation for uncooperative patients. • The technique produced images with fewer artefacts than conventional VIBE sequence. • Dynamic enhanced images can be used for quantitative analysis of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anterior chest wall (ACW) inflammation is not an uncommon finding in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (ax-SpA) and reportedly occurs in 26% of these patients. Radiologists may only be familiar with spinal and peripheral joint imaging, possibly due to the inherent challenges of ACW imaging on some cross-sectional imaging modalities. Knowledge of relevant joint anatomy and the location of sites of inflammation allows the interpreting radiologist to better plan appropriate imaging tests and imaging planes. Accurate assessment of disease burden, sometimes in the absence of clinical findings, may alert the treating rheumatologist, allowing a better estimation of disease burden, increased accuracy of potential imaging scoring systems, and optimize assessment and response to treatment. This article reviews salient anatomy and various imaging modalities to optimize diagnosis, important differential diagnoses, and the interpretation of ACW imaging findings in ax-SpA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The authors investigate the impact that incremental increases in the level of detail of patient-specific prior information have on image quality and the convergence behavior of an inversion algorithm in the context of near-field microwave breast imaging. A methodology is presented that uses image quality measures to characterize the ability of the algorithm to reconstruct both internal structures and lesions embedded in fibroglandular tissue. The approach permits key aspects that impact the quality of reconstruction of these structures to be identified and quantified. This provides insight into opportunities to improve image reconstruction performance. Methods Patient-specific information is acquired using radar-based methods that form a regional map of the breast. This map is then incorporated into a microwave tomography algorithm. Previous investigations have demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach to improve image quality when applied to data generated with two-dimensional (2D) numerical models. The present study extends this work by generating prior information that is customized to vary the degree of structural detail to facilitate the investigation of the role of prior information in image formation. Numerical 2D breast models constructed from magnetic resonance (MR) scans, and reconstructions formed with a three-dimensional (3D) numerical breast model are used to assess if trends observed for the 2D results can be extended to 3D scenarios. Results For the blind reconstruction scenario (i.e., no prior information), the breast surface is not accurately identified and internal structures are not clearly resolved. A substantial improvement in image quality is achieved by incorporating the skin surface map and constraining the imaging domain to the breast. Internal features within the breast appear in the reconstructed image. However, it is challenging to discriminate between adipose and glandular regions and there are inaccuracies in both the structural properties of the glandular region and the dielectric properties reconstructed within this structure. Using a regional map with a skin layer only marginally improves this situation. Increasing the structural detail in the prior information to include internal features leads to reconstructions for which the interface that delineates the fat and gland regions can be inferred. Different features within the glandular region corresponding to tissues with varying relative permittivity values, such as a lesion embedded within glandular structure, emerge in the reconstructed images. Conclusion Including knowledge of the breast surface and skin layer leads to a substantial improvement in image quality compared to the blind case, but the images have limited diagnostic utility for applications such as tumor response tracking. The diagnostic utility of the reconstruction technique is improved considerably when patient-specific structural information is used. This qualitative observation is supported quantitatively with image metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cancer research is primarily dependent on rodent models. There has been a huge advancement in anticancer drug discovery in the last two decades, which is mainly due to improved animal models and introduction of non-invasive imaging technologies. Non-invasive imaging technology plays an important role in cancer and other biomedical research areas including neurology, cardiology, nanotechnology and stem cell biology. The intricate pathways in cancer initiation, progression and metastasis can be visualized and the processes can be analyzed quantitatively using these techniques. Robust preclinical data is the backbone of anticancer drug discovery, which can be obtained precisely using imaging technology. This review is focused on the dedicated preclinical imaging modalities such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Optical imaging and Cerenkov imaging. This paper discusses their present roles in basic and translational research towards evaluation of suitability of target molecules for further clinical trials.The unique features of the imaging modalities enable them to provide information necessary for understanding structural, functional and molecular processes involved in various stages of cancer development thus bridging the gap between bench and bedside. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate the power of the Gaussianization transform (GT) for modeling image content by applying GT for optical coherence tomography (OCT) denoising. The proposed method is a developed version of the spatially constrained Gaussian mixture model (SC-GMM) method, which assumes that each cluster of similar patches in an image has a Gaussian distribution. SC-GMM tries to find some clusters of similar patches in the image using a spatially constrained patch clustering and then denoise each cluster by the Wiener filter. Although in this method GMM distribution is assumed for the noisy image, holding this assumption on a dataset is not investigated. We illustrate that making a Gaussian assumption on a noisy dataset has a significant effect on denoising results. For this purpose, a suitable distribution for OCT images is first obtained and then GT is employed to map this original distribution of OCT images to a GMM distribution. Then, this Gaussianized image is used as the input of the SC-GMM algorithm. This method, which is a combination of GT and SC-GMM, remarkably improves the results of OCT denoising compared with earlier version of SC-GMM and even produces better visual and numerical results than the state-of-the art works in this field. Indeed, the main advantage of the proposed OCT despeckling method is texture preservation, which is important for main image processing tasks like OCT inter- and intraretinal layer analysis. Thus, to prove the efficacy of the proposed method for this analysis, an improvement in the segmentation of intraretinal layers using the proposed method as a preprocessing step is investigated. Furthermore, the proposed method can achieve the best expert ranking between other contending methods, and the results show the helpfulness and usefulness of the proposed method in clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystoid macular edema (CME) and macular hole (MH) are the leading causes for visual loss in retinal diseases. The volume of the CMEs can be an accurate predictor for visual prognosis. This paper presents an automatic method to segment the CMEs from the abnormal retina with coexistence of MH in three-dimensionaloptical coherence tomography images. The proposed framework consists of preprocessing and CMEs segmentation. The preprocessing part includes denoising, intraretinal layers segmentation and flattening, and MH and vessel silhouettes exclusion. In the CMEs segmentation, a three-step strategy is applied. First, an AdaBoost classifier trained with 57 features is employed to generate the initialization results. Second, an automated shape-constrained graph cut algorithm is applied to obtain the refined results. Finally, cyst area information is used to remove false positives (FPs). The method was evaluated on 19 eyes with coexistence of CMEs and MH from 18 subjects. The true positive volume fraction, FP volume fraction, dice similarity coefficient, and accuracy rate for CMEs segmentation were 81.0% ± 7.8%, 0.80% ± 0.63%, 80.9% ± 5.7%, and 99.7% ± 0.1%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implicit shape-based reconstruction method in fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) is capable of achieving higher image clarity than image-based reconstruction method. However, the implicit shape method suffers from a low convergence speed and performs unstably due to the utilization of gradient-based optimization methods. Moreover, the implicit shape method requires priori information about the number of targets.Methods: A shape-based reconstruction scheme of FMT with a cosinoidal level set method is proposed in this paper. The Heaviside function in the classical implicit shape method is replaced with a cosine function, and then the reconstruction can be accomplished with the Levenberg-Marquardt method rather than gradient-based methods. As a result, the priori information about the number of targets is not required anymore and the choice of step length is avoided.Results: Numerical simulations and phantom experiments were carried out to validate the proposed method. Results of the proposed method show higher contrast to noise ratios and Pearson correlations than the implicit shape method and image-based reconstruction method. Moreover, the number of iterations required in the proposed method is much less than the implicit shape method.Conclusions: The proposed method performs more stably, provides a faster convergence speed than the implicit shape method, and achieves higher image clarity than the image-based reconstruction method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To modify a previously designed, short, 10 MV linac waveguide, so that it can produce any energy from 4 to 10 MV. The modified waveguide is designed to be a drop-in replacement for the 6 MV waveguide used in the author's current linear accelerator-magnetic resonance imager (Linac- MR). Methods Using our group's previously designed short 10 MV linac as a starting point, the port was moved to the fourth cavity, the shift to the first coupling cavity was removed and a tuning cylinder added to the first coupling cavity. Each cavity was retuned using finite element method ( FEM) simulations to resonate at the desired frequency. FEM simulations were used to determine the RF field distributions for various tuning cylinder depths, and electron trajectories were computed using a particle-in-cell model to determine the required RF power level and tuning cylinder depth to produce electron energy distributions for 4, 6, 8, and 10 MV photon beams. Monte Carlo simulations were then used to compare the depth dose profiles with those produced by published electron beam characteristics for Varian linacs. Results For each desired photon energy, the electron beam energy was within 0.5% of the target mean energy, the depth of maximum dose was within 1.5 mm of that produced by the Varian linac, and the ratio of dose at 10 cm depth to 20 cm depth was within 1%. Conclusions A new 27.5 cm linear accelerator waveguide design capable of producing any photon energy between 4 and 10 MV has been simulated, however coupling port design and the implications of increased electron beam current at 10 MV remain to be investigated. For the specific cases of 4, 6, and 10 MV, this linac produces depth dose profiles similar to those produced by published spectra for Varian linacs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Positron emission tomography ( PET) is a useful imaging modality that quantifies the physiological distributions of radiolabeled tracers in vivo in humans and animals. However, this technique is unsuitable for multiple-tracer imaging because the annihilation photons used for PET imaging have a fixed energy regardless of the selection of the radionuclide tracer. This study developed a multi-isotope PET ( MI- PET) system and evaluated its imaging performance. Methods Our MI- PET system is composed of a PET system and additional γ-ray detectors. The PET system consists of pixelized gadolinium orthosilicate ( GSO) scintillation detectors and has a ring geometry that is 95 mm in diameter with an axial field of view of 37.5 mm. The additional detectors are eight bismuth germanium oxide ( BGO) scintillation detectors, each of which is 50 × 50 × 30 mm3, arranged into two rings mounted on each side of the PET ring with a 92-mm-inner diameter. This system can distinguish between different tracers using the additional γ-ray detectors to observe prompt γ-rays, which are emitted after positron emission and have an energy intrinsic to each radionuclide. Our system can simultaneously acquire double- (two annihilation photons) and triple- (two annihilation photons and a prompt γ-ray) coincidence events. The system's efficiency for detecting prompt de-excitation γ-rays was measured using a positron- γ emitter, 22Na. Dual-radionuclide (18F and 22Na) imaging of a rod phantom and a mouse was performed to demonstrate the performance of the developed system. Our system's basic performance was evaluated by reconstructing two images, one containing both tracers and the other containing just the second tracer, from list-mode data sets that were categorized by the presence or absence of the prompt γ-ray. Results The maximum detection efficiency for 1275 keV γ-rays emitted from 22Na was approximately 7% at the scanner's center, and the minimum detection efficiency was 5.1% at the edge of the field of view. Dual-radionuclide imaging of the point sources and rod phantom revealed that our system maintained PET's intrinsic spatial resolution and quantitative nature for the second tracer. We also successfully acquired simultaneous double- and triple-coincidence events from a mouse containing 18F-fluoro-deoxyglucose and 22Na dissolved in water. The dual-tracer distributions in the mouse obtained by our MI- PET were reasonable from the viewpoints of physiology and pharmacokinetics. Conclusions This study demonstrates the feasibility of multiple-tracer imaging using PET with additional γ-ray detectors. This method holds promise for enabling the reconstruction of quantitative multiple-tracer images and could be very useful for analyzing multiple-molecular dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The purpose of this study was to determine the performance of computed tomography angiography (CTA) by using a scoring system to predict anterograde and collateral blood flow status in patients with symptomatic middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis with use of conventional angiography as standard reference. Methods We retrospectively identified all consecutive patients with unilateral symptomatic MCA stenosis in our center who underwent conventional angiography and CTA within 1 month. The anterograde and collateral blood flow (AnCo) scoring system consisted of anterograde score (AnS) and collateral score (CoS). Evaluation of the CTA images was done independently by two readers, based on the AnCo scoring system. The conventional angiography was assessed by using the Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) and American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology (ASITN/SIR) scoring system to determine the status of anterograde and collateral blood flow. Diagnostic performance of AnCo was evaluated by using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results A total of 61 patients were included in the analysis with mean age of 53.4 ± 11.0 years. AnS demonstrated a strong correlation with TICI with statistical significance (r = 0.786; p < 0.001). CoS had a modest yet statistically significant correlation with ASITN/SIR (r = 0.574; p < 0.001). The ROC curve analysis for AnS demonstrated an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.894 (p < 0.001) and the ROC curve analysis for CoS showed an AUC of 0.824 (p < 0.001). Conclusions CTA was a potential method to evaluate anterograde and collateral blood flow status in patients with symptomatic unilateral MCA stenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To evaluate the features of acute retinal pigment epitheliitis (ARPE) at onset and in the course of recovery by serial spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD OCT) and the correlation to visual acuity (VA). Design Retrospective cohort study. Participants Consecutive patients with ARPE. Methods A review of medical records was performed. Main Outcome Measures Integrity of SD OCT retinal bands at onset and in the course of disease, time required to achieve each retinal band restoration, corresponding VA change, and final VA. Results Four patients were included. Initial SD OCT showed a dome-shaped hyper-reflective lesion at the photoreceptor outer segment layer disrupting the ellipsoid zone (EZ) and interdigitation zone (IZ) (100%). In the early phase, there was also upward displacement of the external limiting membrane (ELM) and mild transient thickening of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/Bruch's complex (Bc). Acute retinal pigment epitheliitis resolved in a sequence of (1) a decrease in height of SD OCT hyper-reflective lesion and the upwardly displaced ELM returning to its normal position with irregularity; (2) complete disappearance of the hyper-reflective lesion; (3) restoration of ELM; (4) restoration of EZ; and (5) restoration of IZ. The average time to restore ELM, EZ, and IZ was 4.3±5.2, 7.3±7.2, and 12.5±12.4 weeks, respectively, and the corresponding logarithm of the minimum angles of resolution (logMAR) VAs were 0.24±0.23, 0.09±0.07, and 0.05±0.06, respectively. Visual acuity improved when IZ was restored. Conclusions Early SD OCT revealed an inflammatory lesion in the photoreceptor outer segment layer displacing ELM. The RPE was involved only mildly and transiently. Recovery occurred in a sequence of ELM, EZ, and IZ restoration, and VA improved when the IZ was restored. These features suggested that the IZ (i.e., the contact between photoreceptors and RPE) is the primary site of inflammation in ARPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The ability to distinguish malignant from benign retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) and to select patients who are likely to respond to steroid treatment using a noninvasive test would be a major step forward in the management of patients with RPF. Objective To prospectively evaluate the potential of [ 18 F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) to improve clinical decision-making and management of RPF. Design, setting, and participants A total of 122 RPF patients were assessed and managed by a multidisciplinary RPF service between January 2012 and December 2015. Of these, 78 patients underwent 101 FDG-PET scans, as well as computed tomography and blood tests. Management was based on the findings from these investigations. Median follow-up was 16 mo. Results and limitations Of the 24 patients with negative [ 18 F]-FDG-PET, none (0%) had malignancy on biopsy (negative predictive value 100%). [ 18 F]-FDG-PET identified malignancy in 4/4 patients (100%) before biopsy. All four patients had highly avid PET (maximum standardised uptake value ≥4) with atypical avidity distribution. [ 18 F]-FDG-PET revealed avidity in 19/38 patients (50%) with normal inflammatory markers and no avidity in 10/63 patients (16%) with raised marker levels. Patients with highly avid PET were significantly more likely to respond to steroids compared to those with low avidity (9/11 [82%] vs 3/24 [12%]; p < 0.01) or negative PET (9/11 [82%] vs 0/14 [0%]; p < 0.01). Limitations include the small number of patients and the predominance of tertiary referrals, which may represent patients with particularly problematic RPF. Conclusions This study has established a promising role for [ 18 F]-FDG-PET in optimising and individualising the treatment of RPF. Patient summary This study shows that [ 18 F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scans could reduce the need for biopsy in patients with retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF). This technique can distinguish cancer from noncancerous RPF, and may be better than blood tests in assessing and monitoring RPF. It also appears to predict a patient's response to steroids, which should allow more individualised treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atom probe tomography and transmission electron microscopy are used to analyze magnetron-sputtered MoS2 films containing Ti and Au/Sb2O3 as a model system for tribological coatings. Transmission electron microscopy characterization showed that the Ti–MoS2 film is dense and featureless whereas Sb2O3/Au–MoS2 film is less dense and have columnar morphology. Three-dimensional atom probe reconstructions revealed that the Ti–MoS2 films have a homogeneous composition and contain about 15 at.% Ti, which is uniformly distributed throughout the MoS2 matrix without any evidence of Ti precipitation. Sb2O3/Au–MoS2 films also showed homogeneous distribution of Sb2O3 throughout the MoS2 matrix and the presence of Au-rich precipitates. The complementary techniques of atom probe tomography and transmission electron microscopy indicate that Ti and Sb2O3 incorporation in the deposition of MoS2 produces amorphous microstructures, whereas the addition of Au forms nano-sized and well-dispersed precipitates. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The structural analysis of nylon/graphene oxide (NY/GO) and polyetherblockamide/ trisilinolphenyl-polyhederal oligomeric silsesquioxane (PEBA/t-POSS) composites were performed using high-resolution spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). This optical technology revealed both cross-sectional, as well as sub-layer depth information of sample. The non-destructive real-time imaging demonstrated the nature of defects in the composites. The thickness and location of each defect point in the composites were measured using A-scan analysis on the SD-OCT images. The cross-sectional and volumetric images clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of SD-OCT for composite research, as well as the for industrial quality assurance of polymer materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the maximum stone diameter of ureteral stones in the coronal plane to that of stones in the axial plane and to determine the clinical significance of the coronal diameter.Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on patients seen in the clinic between September 2013 and November 2015. Patients were included if they had a history of ureteral stone noted on computerized tomography (CT) performed with coronal reconstructions. Patients were excluded if they had multiple ureteral stones, a history of upper urinary tract abnormalities, a need for urgent intervention, or no follow-up. Management of the ureteral stone and pertinent medical history related to patients' stone disease, including stone diameter on axial and coronal CT imaging, were captured. Multivariate regression was performed to identify predictive factors for stone passage.Results: A total of 150 patients met inclusion criteria. Fifty-four patients spontaneously passed stones and 96 required surgery. The reading radiologist reported the stone measurement in the coronal dimension in 17% of the cases. In 75% of the cases, the coronal diameter was larger than the axial diameter by an average of 1.2 mm. On univariate analysis, stone passage was associated with axial diameter (P <.001), coronal diameter (P <.001), stone location (P = .001), age (P <.001), and medical expulsive therapy (P = .008). On multivariate analysis, only coronal diameter (P <.001), stone location (P = .01), and age (P = .03) remained significant factors associated with spontaneous passage.Conclusion: In the current series, only stone size as measured in the coronal diameter was associated with stone passage vs need for surgical intervention on multivariate analysis. We strongly recommend obtaining coronal reconstructions when CT is performed for ureteral stone to guide management decisions and appropriately counsel patients on the probability of stone passage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) was first reported in 1897 as "Pseudo tumor Cerebri" when lumbar puncture was initiated in medicine. However, it is still a challenging diagnosis for many neurologists and ophthalmologists. Likewise, the sequela of IIH can be debilitating overall health and quality of life in most patients. This report presents the evolving diagnostic modalities that are different from mainstream IIH reports on gender, obesity and headaches ratios. We believe, using standard optical coherence tomography (OCT) can allow for a much earlier and more accurate diagnosis of IIH, with marked reduction in visual loss morbidity. Methods: Retrospective, observational method was used to review 171 patients' charts with suspected IIH over the past 12 years. The OCT of optic nerve and Macula was conducted by considering a list of signs and symptoms. Brain MRI, lumbar puncture, and our standard laboratory workups for optic neuropathies and visual fields were done. Visual Evoked Potentials were performed by neurologists. For purpose of this paper all IIH diagnosis fit Dandy diagnosis criteria of pseudo tumor cerebri as having a normal MRI. Results: We evaluated 164 cases that had LPs done due to our proposed OCT Patterns to rule out IIH with no bio-microscopic evidence of overt papilledema. The majority of LP positive patients had some degree of visual field damage. Twenty out of 164 cases had false positive OCTs (with negative LPs) 88% accuracy in OCT diagnosis of IIH. No false positive OCT in Pattern-I. Conclusion: Four different OCT diagnostic Patterns presented for IIH cases. The demographics of the patients considered having IIH by OCT Patterns I-IV and proven by positive LP; do not fit the classic demographic patterns. Classically, IIH has been reported to be observed in obese females with headaches and visible papilledema. Our findings put this classic set of presenting signs into question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Prospective clinical trial of the screw insertion method for posterior C1-C2 fixation utilizing the patient-specific screw guide template technique.Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of this method for insertion of C1 lateral mass screws (LMS), C2 pedicle screws (PS), and C2 laminar screws (LS).Summary Of Background Data: Posterior C1LMS and C2PS fixation, also known as the Goel-Harms method, can achieve immediate rigid fixation and high fusion rate, but the screw insertion carries the risk of injury to neuronal and vascular structures. Dissection of venous plexus and C2 nerve root to confirm the insertion point of the C1LMS may also cause problems. We have developed an intraoperative screw guiding method using patient-specific laminar templates.Methods: Preoperative bone images of computed tomography (CT) were analyzed using three-dimensional (3D)/multiplanar imaging software to plan the trajectories of the screws. Plastic templates with screw guiding structures were created for each lamina using 3D design and printing technology. Three types of templates were made for precise multistep guidance, and all templates were specially designed to fit and lock on the lamina during the procedure. Surgery was performed using this patient-specific screw guide template system, and placement of the screws was postoperatively evaluated using CT.Results: Twelve patients with C1-C2 instability were treated with a total of 48 screws (24 C1LMS, 20 C2PS, 4 C2LS). Intraoperatively, each template was found to exactly fit and lock on the lamina and screw insertion was completed successfully without dissection of the venous plexus and C2 nerve root. Postoperative CT showed no cortical violation by the screws, and mean deviation of the screws from the planned trajectories was 0.70 ± 0.42 mm.Conclusion: The multistep, patient-specific screw guide template system is useful for intraoperative screw navigation in posterior C1-C2 fixation. This simple and economical method can improve the accuracy of screw insertion, and reduce operation time and radiation exposure of posterior C1-C2 fixation surgery.Level Of Evidence: 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer-aided diagnostics (CAD) systems for automatic detection of lung cancer or lung-related diseases have highly depended on the segmentation accuracy of differential structures from computed tomography (CT) scan images. By detection of differential structures such as right/left Lungs, lung nodules, human airways and pulmonary trees, the new segmentation algorithm (PropSeg) is proposed. The PropSeg method is developed based on four major phases such as pre-processing, detection of candidate regions, segmentation, and post-processing. The pre-processing step is performed to enhance by reconstruction of an input image into the 4 frequency subbands through discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and un-sharp energy mask (UEM). The 3 levels of fuzzy c-means (FCM) clustering is used to detect candidate regions by an integration of local energy constraints (LEC) and variational level set (VLS) method is then utilized to segment differential regions. Moreover, the post-processing step is performed by morphological edge detection to enhance the results of segmentation. The system is tested with manually draw radiologist contours on the 220 images by using statistical measures. The performance of PropSeg is also compared with other four state-of-the-art segmentation methods. The achieve results show that the PropSeg system is outperformed compared to other techniques and it is favorable for automatic diagnosis of lung cancer or to detect lung-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pelvic pain is a common presenting symptom in the emergency room, and prompt diagnosis of adnexal torsion is essential to reduce the risk of irreversible ovarian ischemia. Although ultrasound has been the study of choice for the diagnosis of adnexal torsion, patients with pelvic pain may often be imaged first with computed tomography given the prevalent use of computed tomography in the emergency department. Therefore, it is essential to be familiar with the computed tomography signs of adnexal torsion. A retrospective study of 40 patients with adnexal torsion with and without an adnexal mass was conducted to evaluate interobserver reliability for the computed tomography signs of adnexal torsion. With the exception of deviation of the uterus to the twisted side, interobserver reliability was fair for all computed tomography signs of adnexal torsion. There was no difference in interobserver reliability for most signs between patients with a mass and those without. However, for a twisted vascular pedicle, there was moderate agreement in patients with a mass and no agreement for patients without a mass. Although many computed tomography signs of adnexal torsion have been described, interobserver reliability for most of these signs was found to be fair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The effective dose (HE) and organ or tissue equivalent dose (HT) of a Rando phantom undergoing two brain computed tomography (CT) examination protocols were evaluated using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD-100H) and dose length product (DLP) methods. Materials and methods: TLDs were inserted into the correlated positions of an organ or tissue of Rando phantom, such as thyroid, brain, and salivary gland, using (A) axial scan: scanning the maxillae ranging from external auditory meatus to the parietal bone, and (B) helical scan: scanning from the mandible to the parietal bone. CT examinations were performed on a Philips computer tomography (Brilliance CT) at Lukang Christian Hospital. TLDs were measured using a Harshaw 3500 TLD reader. The HT of organ and tissue during the two protocols was discussed. Results and conclusion: HE were calculated using ICRP 60 and 103 at 2.67 ± 0.18 and 1.89 ± 0.23 mSv based on an axial scan, and 4.70 ± 0.38 and 4.39 ± 0.37 mSv based on a helical scan, respectively. In the DLP method, HE was estimated from CTDIvol that was recorded directly from the console display of the CT unit and then calculated using AAPM 96. Finally, experimental results are compared with those in literature. Radiologists should choose and adjust protocols to prevent unnecessary radiation to patients and satisfying the as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) principle. These findings will be valuable to patients, physicians, radiologists, and the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer is rising worldwide. The major carcinogenic factor for most skin cancers is solar ultraviolet light, in particular, the chronic exposure to UVB (280-320nm). In this study, the optical characteristics of skin canceration process induced by UVB were analyzed. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used for monitoring the morphologic changes and compared with histological analysis. Meanwhile, the optical property, such as the attenuation coefficient (t) was systematically extracted and analyzed. In addition, characteristic textures, including energy, entropy and correlation were revealed from OCT images. Results suggest that OCT is a useful tool for monitoring the process of UVB-induced skin cancer and changes of optical property during this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimization-based method that utilizes the additional sparse prior of region-of-interest (ROI) image, such as total variation, has been the subject of considerable research in problems of interior tomography reconstruction. One challenge for optimization-based iterative ROI image reconstruction is to build the relationship between ROI image and truncated projection data. When the reconstruction support region is smaller than the original object, an unsuitable representation of data fidelity may lead to bright truncation artifacts in the boundary region of field of view. In this work, we aim to develop an iterative reconstruction method to suppress the truncation artifacts and improve the image quality for direct ROI image reconstruction. A novel reconstruction approach is proposed based on an optimization problem involving a two-step filtering-based data fidelity. Data filtering is achieved in two steps: the first takes the derivative of projection data; in the second step, Hilbert filtering is applied in the differentiated data. Numerical simulations and real data reconstructions have been conducted to validate the new reconstruction method. Both qualitative and quantitative results indicate that, as theoretically expected, the proposed method brings reasonable performance in suppressing truncation artifacts and preserving detailed features. The presented local reconstruction method based on the two-step filtering strategy provides a simple and efficient approach for the iterative reconstruction from truncated projections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The requisite for a rigorous preoperative understanding of vascular branching continues to grow in parallel with the implementation of laparoscopic surgery. Three-dimensional (3D)-computed tomography (CT) angiography is a less-invasive modality than traditional angiographic examination. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate branching patterns of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA ). Methods: In the present study, 536 consecutive patients who underwent preoperative 3D-CT angiography from April 2012 to March 2014 were prospectively enrolled. The branching pattern of the right colic artery (RCA) and the intersectional patterns of the RCA, ileocolic artery (ICA), and superior mesenteric vein (SMV) were evaluated. Results: The RCA existed in only 179 cases (33.4 %); the remaining 357 patients (66.6 %) lacked evidence of the RCA. The ICA was detected in all cases. The RCA ran ventral to the SMV in the majority of cases (89.4 %). Conversely, the ICA ran ventral to the SMV in only half of the cases (50.6 %). When the RCA was observed to pass dorsal to the SMV, the ICA also ran dorsal to SMV in all cases. Conclusions: 3D-CT angiography can aid surgeons in identifying and understanding the anatomical vascular variations and intersectional patterns of the RCA, ICA, and SMV. Developing awareness of these variations can aid in the prevention of unexpected vascular injury during laparoscopic right-sided colon surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical clearing of fixed tissues is becoming a key instrument for the three-dimensional reconstruction of macroscopic tissue portions, including entire organs. Indeed, the growing interest in this field has both triggered and been stimulated by recent advances in high-throughput microscopy and data analysis methods, which allowed imaging and management of large samples. The strong entanglement between clearing methods and imaging technology is often overlooked, as typical classification of the former is based only on the chemicals used. Here, we review the recent literature in the field, proposing a taxonomy of clearing techniques based on their mating with the major high-throughput microscopies. We hope that this application-oriented classification can help researchers to find the protocol best suited to their experiment among the many present in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue optical clearing (TOC) is helpful for reducing scattering and enhancing the penetration depth of light, and shows promising potential in optimizing optical imaging performances. A mixture of fructose with PEG-400 and thiazone (FPT) is used as an optical clearing agent in mouse dorsal skin and evaluated with OCT angiography (Angio-OCT) by quantifying optical properties and blood flow imaging simultaneously. It is observed that FPT leads to an improved imaging performance for the deeper tissues. The imaging performance improvement is most likely caused by the FPT-induced dehydration of skin, and the reduction of scattering coefficient (more than ∼40.5%) and refractive-index mismatching (more than ∼25.3%) in the superficial (epidermal, dermal, and hypodermal) layers. A high correlation (up to ∼90%) between the relative changes in refractive-index mismatching and Angio-OCT signal strength is measured. The optical clearing rate is ∼5.83 × 10-5 cm/s. In addition, Angio-OCT demonstrates enhanced performance in imaging cutaneous hemodynamics with satisfactory spatiotemporal resolution and contrast when combined with TOC, which exhibits a powerful practical application in studying microcirculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phenomenological study was carried out on laminated carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composites subjected to constant amplitude fatigue loading. Visualization of damage progression was performed using a high-resolution Skyscan micro-computed tomography unit which provided detailed information on propagation of initially occurring cracks throughout fatigue life at specific intervals. Quantitative analysis of image sequences of virtual cross-sections throughout the three orthogonal planes of the sample resulted in defining fatigue crack growth rates, da/dn for each plane, which was interpreted in terms of the three damage modes: opening (mode I), in-plane shear (mode II) and out-of-plane shear (mode III). By applying linear elastic fracture mechanics laws, strain energy release rates were calculated and then used in a cohesive zone model formulation to define model parameters. Considering a bi-linear triangular cohesive zone model curve, maximum traction and maximum separation were calculated for each of the three damage modes, differentiating between modes II and III in a novel manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objectives: Computed tomography (CT) is one of the most commonly used diagnostic modalities for urinary stone disease. In this study we developed a CT and clinical parameter-based prediction model for shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) outcome in proximal ureteral stones. Materials and Methods: Data from 223 patients with single proximal ureteral stones treated with SWL between January 2009 and January 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical parameters including age, sex, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed in combination with stone-related CT parameters (stone diameter, height, volume, location, Hounsfield units [HU], stone-to-skin distance [SSD]), and secondary signs (hydronephrosis, perinephric edema, and rim sign). Based on the cutoff values determined by c-statistics, a scoring system for the prediction of SWL outcome was developed. Results: The success rate was 65.9% (147/223), and in a univariate analysis body weight, BMI, SSD (vertical, horizontal), HU, stone diameter, height, volume, and all secondary signs were significantly associated with the success of SWL. However, on multivariate analysis only BMI (odds ratio [OR] = 1.322, confidence interval [CI] 1.156,1.512, p = 0.00), stone diameter (OR =1.397, CI 1.259, 1.551, p = 0.00), and perinephric edema (grade 0-1 vs 3-4, OR = 2.831, CI 1.032,7.764, p = 0.043) were independent predictors of SWL success. The prediction model based on the logistic regression analysis was as follows: SWL success = 1/[1+exp (-10.165+ 0.279 X [BMI]+ 0.334 X [diameter] +1.040 [perinephric edema])], having an area under the curve of 0.881. In the prediction model based on these parameters, scores of 0,1,2, and 3 correlated with SWL success rates of 98.5%, 65.7%, 31.4%, and 0%, respectively. Conclusions: BMI, stone diameter, and perinephric edema were independent predictors of SWL outcome and a prediction model based on these parameters will facilitate decision-making for SWL in proximal ureteral stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have revealed that the sternum can provide a method for assessing sex in diverse population groups. In the current study, sternal measurements were recorded from three-dimensional multidetector-computed tomographic images of 255 individuals (112 females and 143 males) in Western China. Results demonstrated that the difference between male and female mean values for all linear dimensions and manubrium index was highly significant. The stepwise analysis of four linear sterna dimensions and manubrium index, in which the sternum index, total length and manubrium width were selected, yielded a sex classification accuracy rate of 81.6% and a sex bias of 2.6%. Furthermore, multivariate discriminant function equations incorporating dimensions of the manubrium and individual sternal dimensions, such as the total length of the sternum and the sternum body, may also be of value in the estimation of sex. The results of the present study with osteometric equations provide an effective method for assessing sex in Western Chinese, particularly in situations where the pelvis or bones of the extremities are not preserved, and the CT-VRT may be a practical method for estimation of sexual dimorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Dynamic fluorescence molecular tomography (DFMT) is a valuable method to evaluate the metabolic process of contrast agents in different organs in vivo, and direct reconstruction methods can improve the temporal resolution of DFMT. However, challenges still remain due to the large time consumption of the direct reconstruction methods. An acceleration strategy using graphics processing units (GPU) is presented. The procedure of conjugate gradient optimization in the direct reconstruction method is programmed using the compute unified device architecture and then accelerated on GPU. Numerical simulations and in vivo experiments are performed to validate the feasibility of the strategy. The results demonstrate that, compared with the traditional method, the proposed strategy can reduce the time consumption by ~90% without a degradation of quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]