Displacement Volume Research Articles

The non-local thermoelastic response of a porous microrod subjected to a moving heat source

For small-sized structures or devices, size-dependent effect and thermal-induced deformation become the main concerns in guiding their practical applications. To reveal such concerns of porous structures, the dynamic response of a finite porous microrod, subjected to a moving heat source and fixed at both ends, is investigated based on the non-local elasticity theory and the theory for porous materials with thermal relaxation. The corresponding governing equations are formulated and solved using Laplace transform and its numerical inversion. The distributions of the non-dimensional temperature displacement stress and volume fraction are obtained and illustrated graphically. In the simulation, the effects of the non-local parameter, the velocity of the heat source, and the thermal lag factor on the considered quantities are examined and illustrated graphically. Comparisons between the microrod with voids and without voids are shown.

Quantum and dynamic investigations of Complex iron- alkaloid-extract Cytisine derivatives of Retama monosperma (L.) Boiss. Seeds as eco-friendly inhibitors for Mild steel corrosion in 1M HCl

• The adsorption of Cytisine derivatives on the iron surface was modeled using DFT calculations as well as the dynamic Monte Carlo simulations. • DFT calculations were used to study the interaction of these inhibitors with iron Fe n (n=1-5). • MC and MD simulations were adopted to simulate the adsorption of Cytisine derivatives on the iron Fe (111) surface in vacuum as well as in acidic solution. • The radial distribution function (RDF), mean square displacement (MSD) and fractional free volume (FFV) were also studied using MD simulation. In this study, the adsorption of Cytisine derivatives as an eco-friendly inhibitor for mild steel corrosion [ 1 , 2 ] on the iron surface was modeled using density functional theory (DFT) calculations and the Monte Carlo (MC) as well as Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to elucidate the interactions involved. Firstly, the interaction of these inhibitors with iron clusters Fe n (n=1-5) was studied by DFT as a representative example of a corrosion inhibition process. Moreover, structures, binding energies, partial atomic charge NBO and natural bond orbital analysis of the resulting complexes support the existence of considerable binding between these inhibitors and Fe n (n=1-5) clusters. Then, the dynamic Monte Carlo (MC) simulation was also adopted to simulate the adsorption of Cytisine derivatives on the iron Fe (111) surface in vacuum as well as in acidic solution containing 491 H 2 O, 4 hydronium ion H 3 O + and 5 chlorine ion Cl − . Besides, to advance the understanding of interactions between these molecules and iron surface, the radial distribution function (RDF), mean square displacement (MSD) and fractional free volume (FFV) were also studied in this paper. Our results of both the Fe n (n=1-4) clusters and the Fe (111) surface made it possible to show noticeable competitiveness between the three protonated inhibitors with a slight superiority for the n-CytN9H+ molecule. Furthermore, based on the diffusion coefficient we found that the three protonated inhibitors have a good capacity to slow down the movement of corrosive particles and consequently to inhibit the metallic substrate against corrosive electrolyte.

Geometry Optimization of Heaving Axisymmetric Point Absorbers under Parametrical Constraints in Irregular Waves

The objective of this work is to identify the maximum absorbed power and optimal buoy geometry of a heaving axisymmetric point absorber for a given cost in different sea states. The cost of the wave energy converter is estimated as proportional to the displaced volume of the buoy, and the buoy geometry is described by the radius-to-draft ratio. A conservative wave-height-dependent motion constraint is introduced to prevent the buoy from jumping out of the free surface of waves. The constrained optimization problem is solved by a two-nested-loops method, within which a core fundamental optimization process employs the MATLAB function fmincon. Results show that the pretension of the mooring system should be as low as possible. Except for very small energy periods, the stiffness of both the power take-off and mooring system should also be as low as possible. A buoy with a small radius-to-draft ratio can absorb more power, but at the price of working in more energetic seas and oscillating at larger amplitudes. In addition, the method to choose the optimal buoy geometry at different sea states is provided.

Age-related osteogenesis on lateral force application to rat incisor – Part II: Bony recession and cortical remodeling

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the age-related changes in the bony recession and cortical bone remodeling induced by lateral orthodontic tooth movement, using a three-dimensional micro-computed tomography (CT) analysis. Material and Methods: A total of 40 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two distinct age groups (young, 10 weeks and adult, 52 weeks). Double-helical springs exerting 40 g of force were applied to central incisors to analysis of changes in lateral cortical bone and tooth movement with age and time. The young and adult rats were divided into four subgroups, T0 (0 week), T1 (1 week), T2 (2 weeks), and T3 (3 weeks), depending on the period of wearing the appliance. Micro-CT image was taken on each dissected pre-maxilla specimen. In each subgroup, distance between the center of teeth, suture width, tooth displacement, bony recession, and bone volume was evaluated. Results: The changes in the distance between the center of teeth and the suture width were significantly greater in the young group. However, the change in the tooth displacement showed no significant difference between groups. In the young group, bony recession of outer cortical layer was observed at T1 (P < 0.05), but the amount of recession gradually decreased at T2 and T3. In contrast, in the adult group, bony recession increased gradually over observation period (P < 0.05). The bone volume decreased at T1 (P < 0.05), but recovered at T2 and T3 in both groups. Conclusion: The compensatory bone formation occurs in the pressure side of cortical bone more significantly in the young group than in the adult according to the lateral displacement of incisor in rats. The reduced bone reaction in the adult is considered a limiting factor of the excessive tooth movement in the compromised treatment of skeletal malocclusion.

Impact of Bone Augmentation of Facial Bone Defect around Osseointegrated Implant: A Three Dimensional Finite Element Analysis.

(1) Background: When dental implants are placed at the esthetic zone, facial bone fenestration might be expected. This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical effect of bone augmentation around implants with facial bone fenestration defects using the finite element method. (2) Methods: An anterior maxillary region model with facial concavity was constructed with a threaded implant inserted following the root direction, resulting in apical threads exposure to represent the fenestration model. Several bone coverage levels were simulated by gradually shifting the deepest concavity point buccally, mimicking bone augmentation surgeries with different bone fill results. Oblique forces were applied, and analysis was performed. (3) Results: Peak compressive stress magnitude and distribution varied according to the level of exposure and facial concavity depth. The fenestration model demonstrated a slightly lower peak peri-implant bone stress, smaller implant displacement, and smaller bone volume with strain levels above 200 µ strain. A gradual increase in compressive stress, implant displacement, and bone volume exhibited strain level above 200 µ strain was observed with the increased bone fill level of the facial bone fenestration. (4) Conclusions: Exposure of implants apical threads at the maxillary anterior region does not significantly affect the peri-implant stress and strain results. However, increasing the buccolingual width and eliminating the buccal concavity might increase the peri-implant bone volume exhibited favorable loading levels.

Development of large capacity rotary compressor with three cylinders. Second report: Vibration and sound

• Excitation force of three-cylinder rotary compressor is 30% of that of two-cylinder. • Axis analysis shows axis runout is reduced by improving counter balancer arrangement. • Three-cylinder prototype vibration is less than 30% of conventional two-cylinder. • Three-cylinder prototype sound is about 3dB lower than conventional two-cylinder. This paper presents theoretical calculation results of the axis excitation force associated with compression operation of a three-cylinder rotary compressor, and shows that the axis excitation force is reduced to about 30% of that of a two-cylinder rotary compressor. Our paper has performed an axis behavior analysis, and clarifies that the axis runout amplitude of the upper end of the crankshaft during high-speed rotation is reduced by 55% by improving counter balancer arrangement. To demonstrate these effects, we measured vibration and sound of a three-cylinder prototype with a 20% larger displacement volume than a two-cylinder maximum model, and compared them with that two-cylinder model. The vibration due to compression force fluctuation was reduced to less than 30%, and the vibration due to axis runout moment was also reduced to about half. The sound overall value at a rotation speed of 90 rps was reduced three decibels.

Development of a Reconfigurable Prototype Peristaltic Compressor

Traditional positive displacement compressors require valves, internal volume ratios or both to operate. These two features generate the majority of the losses in compressors. The peristaltic compressor is a novel compressor architecture that feature valve-less compression with variable volume ratios, which provides the potential for highly efficient compression. This paper will present a design of a reconfigurable prototype peristaltic compressor and illustrate how the structure of the compression chamber and actuation pattern affect the compressor efficiency. The prototype utilizes a flexible diaphragm constrained and sealed against a female die to make a compression chamber. Linear actuators with male dies press the diaphragm sequentially against the female die to move and compress the fluid. Preliminary experiments were performed using air as the working fluid for volume ratios ranging from 1.143 to 8 and operational frequencies ranging from 1.28 to 2.31 Hz. These results suggest that the actuation pattern has an impact on the major parameters such as mass flow, displacement volume, and pressure ratio which influence the overall efficiency of the compressor.

Numerical/Experimental Study on Downsized Iranian National Engine (EF7) Performance at Low Engine Speeds

Engine downsizing is a trusted method to reduce fuel consumption and pollution emitted from internal combustion engines. In this method, engine displacement volume is reduced while maintaining the same power/torque characteristics. However, there still exist several limitations to utilize this technology. In this paper, the naturally aspirated type of Iran national engine (EF7-NA) is investigated for a possible downsized version. A one-dimensional engine model equipped with a zero-dimensional two-zone combustion sub-model was developed and validated via experimental results for both natural aspirated and turbocharged engine types. Then experimental and numerical studies were carried out for the primary concept, deactivation of one cylinder besides using a turbocharger. To overcome the concept shortages, especially in lower ranges of engine speed, numerical studies were extended. Deployment of several turbochargers with different performance maps and different valve timing via a dual CVVT system were investigated. The results showed that there is a feasible method for EF7 engine downsizing via a 3-cylinder type equipped with a modified turbocharger and valve timing. The maximum difference between base-engine and downsized version torque is about 7% in low engine speeds.

The brain functional connectivity in the default mode network is associated with self-efficacy in young adults.

Self-efficacy is a subjective belief that depends on self-related past experience, and is a strong predictor for individual future performance. To the aim of promoting one's future performance, it is necessary to gain better knowledge of it's cognitive process and brain mechanism. The present research sought to investigate the functional connectivity basis of self-efficacy by using the resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data of a large sample of young adults (536 participants). Multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the relationship between self-efficacy integrated score and brain functional connectivity measures. Gender, age, mean framewise displacement and grey matter volume were used as nuisance covariates. The whole-brain analysis revealed an association between self-efficacy and the functional connectivity of several regions within the default mode network. These regions included the right anterior cingulate cortex, the left posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus and bilateral parahippocampal cortex. Our findings suggest that the default mode network plays a crucial role in self-efficacy, and hold the view that episodic memory and self-related processing have influence on self-efficacy.

A Single-opening&closing Valve Tester for Direct Measurement of Closing Volume of the Heart Valve.

The objective of this study was to develop a novel single opening&closing pulsatile flow in-vitro valve tester for direct measurement of closing volume of the heart valve. A single opening&closing valve tester was composed of a piston pump, valve mounting chamber, reservoir, measurement and control system. The piston pump was used to drive a valve to open and close with dictated flow which comprised three phases of accelerated, constant, and decelerated flow with six slopes. A high speed camera was used to record valve opening and closing images. Two pressure transducers across the tested valve were used to capture the ending time of valve closing which was verified by the high-speed photography. The closing time was measured and closing volume was calculated with a piston displacement volume during valve closing. A tilting disc valve and porcine mitral valve were tested. There was a big difference in flowrate between the Transonic flowmeter and piston pump. The heart valve opened and closed under the dictated flow driven by the piston pump. The transvalvular pressure was minor during valve opening and then increased sharply during valve closing. The closing time varied approximately linearly with the slope of the decelerated flow and was comparable between the two methods by the transvalvular pressure and high-speed photography. The closing volumes did not change much with the slope of the decelerated flow and were 7.0 ± 1.0 and 14.0 ± 1.5mL for the tilting disc valve and mitral valve, respectively. Pulsatile flow is challenging to the flowmeter. A novel single opening&closing pulsatile flow in-vitro valve tester for the heart valve has successfully been developed and can be used to simulate and evaluate the opening and closing hemodynamics of the heart valve. The tester can be used to measure valve closing volume and time accurately with a standardized testing protocol free from effect of other components such as the resistance, compliance units and auxiliary valve in the continuous pulsatile flow valve tester.

운항조건에서 11,000TEU 컨테이너선의 소요마력 저감을 위한 트림변화 연구

In this paper, the effect of trim variation on the required power of 11,000TEU container ship was investigated under conditions considering the actual operation speed and draft. For each draft condition, the effective power (PE) and delivered power (PD) trends were investigated with changes in trim and ship speed. At this time, the displacement volume was fixed same as the value of the even trim condition and the both sinkage at the fore and after perpendicular are confirmed. The test ship speeds were determined by considering the operating speed. Both numerical and experimental methods were used to analyze the effects of trim variation. Numerical analysis results were used for evaluating the resistance performance, and the self-propulsion performance was estimated using experimental data obtained from model test.

Kriging-based optimization of functionally graded structures

This work presents an efficient methodology for the optimum design of functionally graded structures using a Kriging-based approach. The method combines an adaptive Kriging framework with a hybrid particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to improve the computational efficiency of the optimization process. In this approach, the surrogate model is used to replace the high-fidelity structural responses obtained by a NURBS-based isogeometric analysis. In addition, the impact of key factors on surrogate modelling, as the correlation function, the infill criterion used to update the surrogate model, and the constraint handling is assessed for accuracy, efficiency, and robustness. The design variables are related to the volume fraction distribution and the thickness. Displacement, fundamental frequency, buckling load, mass, and ceramic volume fraction are used as objective functions or constraints. The effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed algorithm are illustrated through a set of numerical examples. Results show a significant reduction in the computational effort over the conventional approach.

Forecasting coastal evolution on time-scales of days to decades

Increasing pressures on coastal environments induced by sea level rise and coastal squeeze has meant that tracking the morphological evolution of sedimentary coasts from the last known survey, pre-empting storm impacts and forecasting potential beach recovery following extreme events is of substantial and increasing societal importance. Equilibrium models for forecasting coastal evolution have figured prominently in the literature in the past two decades and show a strong potential for fulfilling this societal need. In particular some very skilful shoreline evolution models have been proposed based on equilibrium concepts. These models are stable, simple and permit long-term (O(10) years) predictions of coastal change. However, equilibrium models are typically highly empirical and in many cases do not consider explicitly the impact of dynamic sea level, which is modulated by tides, surge and global sea level rise. Equilibrium-based models of shoreline evolution have shown particular promise, but these models generally do not consider the role of the sub- and supra-tidal morphology on coastal evolution (e.g. the importance of coastal dune systems). This contribution presents a new model for Forecasting Coastal Evolution (ForCE), which addresses these issues. The model algorithm adopts a reduced complexity but fundamentally physics-based approach, whilst maintaining equilibrium principles. Unlike, most prior models, the sub- and supra-tidal areas are represented explicitly in the model, as are sea level variations. Sediment transport is equated directly with the disequilibrium in wave energy dissipation flux, leading to a sediment transport formulation that negates the normal intermediate step of computing surfzone currents, generally required in process models. Two components of sediment transport are considered: The first is forced by the turbulent kinetic energy associated with wave breaking and the second diffusive term, is related to a sea bed-slope disequilibrium. The first component perturbs the equilibrium profile and dominates in the surfzone, whilst that latter component plays an important role in beach recovery. Equations are developed for a depth-averaged, beach profile model, assuming longshore uniformity. These computational efficient and stable equations facilitate long forecasts (>decade) and easy comparisons with a field data at cross-shore transport dominated field sites. At the test field site, the model is capable of reproducing qualitative observations of nearshore sand-bar dynamics and quantitative comparisons with measured coastal state indicators including both the shoreline displacement (r = 0.90, N.M.S.E. = 0.145) and intertidal beach volume (r = 0.87).

\u2018Level-off\u2019 cement plugging method to cure lost circulation verified with case studies

Controlling lost circulation during drilling operations in a reservoir prone to fluid losses is typically remedied by cement squeezing or plug setting as the last resort. The aim being to minimize or stop drilling fluid losses and to regain full returns at surface, and to maintain wellbore integrity. Different placement methods of cement plugs have been discussed in detail in the literature, except for the ‘level-off’ method, which can be effective for curing complete loss circulation cases. Following modeling and calculations of this cement plug placement method, its design and execution procedures are discussed, together with two successful field cases in highly fractured carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East. Using drill pipe and a Retrievable-Test-Treat-Squeeze (RTTS) packer, set with some spacing from the loss zone, the method entails that the cement slurry is allowed to drop by gravity in order to cure lost circulation. As the column of fluid, mud and slurry in the well exceeds formation pore pressure, i.e., overbalanced conditions, a volume of acid-soluble cement slurry is allowed to slowly drop and freely penetrate the formation, i.e., through its fractures or caverns. During the penetration of this viscous slurry into the loss zone, the cement slurry can set and the fracture or fissure openings are plugged. Presented are detailed design calculations for the level-off placement technique, determination of required cement slurry and displacement volumes, and recommended displacement and RTTS packer setting depths. The expected depth of the top of cement plug is estimated. The design parameters are compared with field cases and explanations are given for possible discrepancies. Success of the operation is discussed in terms of final mud loss after cement plugging and Non-Productive Time mitigation. Detailed field procedures and execution are also presented. The level-off job is already practiced by the industry, but it is not published in the literature, in some cases they have different methods with causing some errors. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is the first detailed description and stepwise calculation of the level-off cement placement technique in the literature.

From regional sensitivity to intra-sensitivity for parametric analysis of free-form shapes: Application to ship design

Robust Parametric Sensitivity Analysis (PSA) is a prerequisite for efficient shape optimisation via parametric modelling. A major challenge PSA has to handle is related to the fact that a parameter can be sensitive in certain local areas of the design space but become insensitive in others. Therefore, setting an applicable space for this analysis becomes a difficult task. In this paper, we introduce the concept of intra-sensitivity to identify parameters whose perturbation has a major impact on the sensitivity index of the remaining parameters. For this purpose, we firstly appeal to Active Subspace Method (ASM) and develop an ASM-based regional sensitivity analysis, which investigates parametric sensitivity in local regions of the design space and aids conducing to parameters’ intra-sensitivity. This regional analysis is applied in conjunction with a Dynamic Propagation Sampling approach, for tackling the computational complexity arising when high-dimensional problems are concerned. Once sensitive and intra-sensitive parameters are identified, then free-form features, correlated to these parameters, are evaluated using a feature saliency map built with the aid of Hausdorff distance. The so resulting methodology has been validated in the area of computer-aided ship design using two parametric modellers: the first one is a Procedural Deformation (PD) modeller which is based on T-splines and involves 24 parameters while the second one is based on Free-Form Deformation (FFD) and involves 104 parameters. The corresponding design spaces have been generated using a parent hull close to the KCS container ship and are analysed against hull’s volume of displacement and total resistance. Finally, the convergence performance of the various components of this approach is compared with state-of-the-art techniques.

Morphophysiological, Enzymatic, and Elemental Activity in Greenhouse Tomato Saladette Seedlings from the Effect of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria

The tomato is a widely cultivated and consumed vegetable globally. Comarca Lagunera is an important tomato-exporting region of Mexico. Salinity is an abiotic factor that reduces productivity and increases production costs. To advance growing period, there is high demand for the sustainable production of seedlings. Plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are characterized by improving plant growth through different mechanisms and can be an option for reducing the misuse of chemical fertilizers. The importance of the application of strains, evaluating various inoculation methods (in seed, soil, foliar spraying, and root immersion), should be evaluated to propose biofertilization packages in a specific crop. Thus, the study aimed to determine the effect of PGPR (Bacillus paralicheniformis, Acinetobacter guillouiae, Aeromonas caviae, and Pseudomonas lini) vs. nutrient solution and distilled water in the seedlings stage of saladette-type tomato on morphophysiological variables, nitrate reductase (NR) enzyme activity, and plant minerals via tissue analysis under greenhouse conditions. The four PGPR were inoculated by different methods (inoculation in seed, sprinkling, and both) in saladette-type tomato seedlings under greenhouse conditions and evaluated in vivo 40 days after sowing for morphophysiological variables, such as seedling height; stem diameter; root displaced volume; fresh and dry weight matter of the leaves, stems, and roots; leaf area; and nitrate reductase enzyme activity. The effect of the inoculation of PGPR showed significant results for Pseudomonas lini vs. the control, with 40% higher values, on average, for plant height, stem diameter, displaced root volume, and fresh weight of root, leaf, and stem. The response of enzymatic and mineral content in seedlings was variable with nutrient solution and significant with distilled water. Studies related to the promotion of plants in the subsequent phenological stages of a tomato, considering the selected PGPR, should be considered in future research.

Inhibition on porpoising instability of high-speed planing vessel by ventilated cavity

Porpoising instability is a tough nut bewildering ocean academia for years. This study provides the first experiment found that the cavity formed by artificial ventilation can significantly inhibit the inherent porpoising instability of planing vessel under high/ultra-high forward speeds. Restricted by the occurrence of porpoising instability, a Froude number (volume of displacement based) upper limit of 5.91 is reached at the current conventional ship model calm water towing experiment. However, this instability phenomenon disappears when a cavity is formed at the bottom of ventilation ship model within all experimentally Froude number range (5.91−6.82). The inhibition effect can be tracked from the timing sequences value of trim. The decrease in trim value, to the degree below the threshold of porpoising instability, is responsible for the disappearance of this longitudinal instability. The enhancement in longitudinal stability is believed to be directly related to the increase in volume of displacement led by the cavity, which greatly reinforces the impact of hydrostatic lift in the vertical force balance. The strengthening of hydrostatic lift attenuates the influence of dynamic instability caused by fluid dynamic pressure. Therefore, if an external disturbance is given to the vessel, the disturbing moment around the center of rotation is weakened, which prevents the strong periodic alternation between inertial and restorative forces.

Impact of the buoy geometry on power absorption of a point absorber with a cylindrical buoy under motion constraint

In this work, we studied the impact of the buoy geometry on power absorption of a point absorber consisting of a cylindrical buoy. The displacement volume of the buoy is fixed while the radius to draft ratio is adopted to completely define the buoy geometry. A motion constraint that prevents the buoy from jumping out of or being submerged by the water is applied so that the absorbed power is restrained at a reasonable range. The maximum power absorption ability under reactive control has been attained, and the most appropriate buoy geometry has been identified. Passive control is also investigated to find the possible condition where it can be used as an alternative to active control. Results show that the maximum absorbed power approaches the Budal limit at low wave frequencies, and gradually departs from this limit with the increasing wave frequency. The most attractive radius to draft ratio, which shows more absorbed power and wider bandwidth, is around 1.0 and decreases with the increasing wave amplitude. At high wave frequencies, the absorbed power is identically affected by the motion constraint for both passive and reactive control, hence passive control may be an alternative to reactive control in this condition due to simpler implementation.

On the use of a SEBS polymer gel block as a new ballistic target to assess blunt ballistic impacts: Application to a wide range of LLKE projectiles

The objective of the present paper is to determine the ability of a transparent polymeric gel, used as a reference material with a mechanical response comparable to that of a human body, to assess less-lethal kinetic energy (LLKE) projectiles. To do this, a consistent measurement method of the dynamic deformation of the gel impacted by a projectile is first of all presented. It relies on high-speed images and image processing routines. Several metrics from the measured gel wall displacement profile are used to investigate experiments. Secondly, repeated impact conditions on various gel blocks confirm that, the proposed material meets the requirements of mechanical consistency, batch-to-batch reproducibility and easy handling. Thirdly, 138 ballistic experiments covering kinetic energies from 10 J up to 300 J are performed, involving commercially available LLKE projectiles of various stiffness. The important dataset is used to perform a statistical analysis through Spearman’s correlation matrix between metrics and projectile parameters. It mainly reveals the need to use a ballistic target to determine the wounding potential of a given projectile rather than kinetic energy density or momentum density. Robust power law mathematical fits describe the relations between three metrics (maximum gel displacement, displacement - rate of displacement-based metric and maximum displaced volume) and kinetic energy density depending on LLKE projectiles’ stiffness. Fourthly, three case reports available in literature and involving LLKE projectiles have been replicated on a gel block. An experimental procedure is proposed based on numerous case reports to give design guidelines in terms of projectile mass, velocity and stiffness. Finally, this original study demonstrates the gel material capabilities to assess LLKE weapons before their field deployment. However, further investigations need to be pursued to propose a relevant injury predictive tool and associated risk curves to law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies.

Deep Convolutional Neural Networks for Displacement Estimation in ARFI Imaging.

Ultrasound elasticity imaging in soft tissue with acoustic radiation force requires the estimation of displacements, typically on the order of several microns, from serially acquired raw data A-lines. In this work, we implement a fully convolutional neural network (CNN) for ultrasound displacement estimation. We present a novel method for generating ultrasound training data, in which synthetic 3-D displacement volumes with a combination of randomly seeded ellipsoids are created and used to displace scatterers, from which simulated ultrasonic imaging is performed using Field II. Network performance was tested on these virtual displacement volumes, as well as an experimental ARFI phantom data set and a human in vivo prostate ARFI data set. In the simulated data, the proposed neural network performed comparably to Loupas's algorithm, a conventional phase-based displacement estimation algorithm; the rms error was [Formula: see text] for the CNN and 0.73 [Formula: see text] for Loupas. Similarly, in the phantom data, the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of a stiff inclusion was 2.27 for the CNN-estimated image and 2.21 for the Loupas-estimated image. Applying the trained network to in vivo data enabled the visualization of prostate cancer and prostate anatomy. The proposed training method provided 26 000 training cases, which allowed robust network training. The CNN had a computation time that was comparable to Loupas's algorithm; further refinements to the network architecture may provide an improvement in the computation time. We conclude that deep neural network-based displacement estimation from ultrasonic data is feasible, providing comparable performance with respect to both accuracy and speed compared to current standard time-delay estimation approaches.