X-ray In-line Phase-contrast Imaging Research Articles

Numerical design of in-line X-ray phase-contrast imaging based on ellipsoidal single-bounce monocapillary

A new device using an ellipsoidal single-bounce monocapillary X-ray optics was numerically designed to realize in-line X-ray phase-contrast imaging by using conventional laboratory X-ray source with a large spot. Numerical simulation results validated the effectiveness of the proposed device and approach. The ellipsoidal single-bounce monocapillary X-ray optics had potential applications in the in-line phase contrast imaging with polychromatic X-rays.

Visualization of blood supply network using X-ray in-line phase contrast imaging in rat spinal cord

Objective To investigate the two-dimensional and three-dimensional micro-vascular atlas of rat spinal cord using synchrotron radiation-based in-line X-ray phase contrast imaging (XPCI),and proceed to establish steady and repeatable imaging method.Methods Six Sprague-Dawley male rats were used in this study.The spinal cord specimens were subjected to fixation and dehydrated without angiography,followed by the scanning and imaging procedure in X-ray imaging and bio-medical applications beam line station in Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility.The results and effects of XPCI concerning microvasculature of rat spinal cord were evaluated.Results The phase contrast signal of vessels in rat spinal cord was characterized by the significant effect of edge enhancement in XPCI imaging.The 3D morphology of the rat spinal cord microvasculature could be successfully observed via the IL-XPCI without the contrast agent injection and the smallest vessel with diameter of about 7.4 μm could be visualized.Conclusion XPCI has broad applied value in vascular related spinal cord diseases. Key words: Synchrotron radiation ; Phase contrast imaging; Spinal cord; Microvasculature ; Morphology

Investigation of gastric cancers in nude mice using X-ray in-line phase contrast imaging.

BackgroundThis paper is to report the new imaging of gastric cancers without the use of imaging agents. Both gastric normal regions and gastric cancer regions can be distinguished by using the principal component analysis (PCA) based on the gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM).MethodsHuman gastric cancer BGC823 cells were implanted into the stomachs of nude mice. Then, 3, 5, 7, 9 or 11 days after cancer cells implantation, the nude mice were sacrificed and their stomachs were removed. X-ray in-line phase contrast imaging (XILPCI), an X-ray phase contrast imaging method, has greater soft tissue contrast than traditional absorption radiography and generates higher-resolution images. The gastric specimens were imaged by an XILPCIs’ charge coupled device (CCD) of 9 μm image resolution. The PCA of the projective images’ region of interests (ROIs) based on GLCM were extracted to discriminate gastric normal regions and gastric cancer regions. Different stages of gastric cancers were classified by using support vector machines (SVMs).ResultsThe X-ray in-line phase contrast images of nude mice gastric specimens clearly show the gastric architectures and the details of the early gastric cancers. The phase contrast computed tomography (CT) images of nude mice gastric cancer specimens are better than the traditional absorption CT images without the use of imaging agents. The results of the PCA of the texture parameters based on GLCM of normal regions is (F1 + F2) > 8.5, but those of cancer regions is (F1 + F2) < 8.5. The classification accuracy is 83.3% that classifying gastric specimens into different stages using SVMs.ConclusionsThis is a very preliminary feasibility study. With further researches, XILPCI could become a noninvasive method for future the early detection of gastric cancers or medical researches.

Phase-retrieval methods with applications in composite-material tomography

In-line phase-contrast x-ray imaging is emerging as a method for observing small details when the contrast in absorption x-ray imaging is low. It gives images with strong edge enhancement, and phase retrieval is necessary to obtain quantitative thickness information. In particular for tomography, clarity can be enhanced by phase retrieval, as here demonstrated on a 3D-weave reinforced composite material. Seven suitable phase-retrieval methods are identified and integrated into a single method, where each version is marked by variations in particular steps. The general method and its variations are outlined and a comparison shows which methods are most suitable in different situations.

The Research of Cancer Imaging by X-Ray In-Line Phase Contrast Imaging Technique

The hard X-ray in-line phase contrast imaging (HXILPCI) is a phase contrast technique that generates excellent contrast of biological soft tissues compared to conventional X-ray absorption radiography. We explore the application of HXILPCI in the diagnosis of gastric cancer and pancreatic cancer. These nude mice cancer samples were checked by HXILPCI to obtain projection contrast images of 9μm image resolution with CCD camera. The texture extraction was based on gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM). The corresponding morphological features of abnormal and normal tissues are analyzed. The produced phase contrast images of nude mice cancer samples show clearly biological tissues architectures and the size of cancer. The paper results show that HXILPCI can be a potential noninvasive technique to diagnose early cancer.

Preliminary comparison of grating-based and in-line phase contrast X-ray imaging with synchrotron radiation for mouse kidney at TOMCAT

Phase contrast imaging has been demonstrated to be advantageous in revealing detailed structures inside biological specimens without contrast agents. Grating-based differential phase contrast (DPC) and in-line phase contrast (ILPC) X-ray imaging are the two modalities frequently used at the beamline of TOmographic Microscopy and Coherent rAdiology experimenTs (TOMCAT) at the Swiss Light Source (SLS). In this paper, we preliminarily compared the abilities of two types of phase contrast imaging in distinguishing micro structures in mouse kidneys. The 3D reconstructions showed that the microstructures in kidney, such as micro vessels and renal tubules, were displayed clearly with both imaging modalities. The two techniques may be viewed as complementary. For larger features with very small density variations DPC is the desirable method. In cases where dose and time limits may prohibit the multiple steps required for DPC, and when the focus is on finer features, the ILPC method may be considered as a more viable alternative. Moreover, high resolution ILPC images are comparable with histological results.

Phase retrieval in in-line x-ray phase contrast imaging based on total variation minimization

State-of-the-art techniques for phase retrieval in propagation based X-ray phase-contrast imaging are aiming to solve an underdetermined linear system of equations. They commonly employ Tikhonov regularization - an L2-norm regularized deconvolution scheme - despite some of its limitations. We present a novel approach to phase retrieval based on Total Variation (TV) minimization. We incorporated TV minimization for deconvolution in phase retrieval using a variety of the most common linear phase-contrast models. The results of our TV minimization was compared with Tikhonov regularized deconvolution on simulated as well as experimental data. The presented method was shown to deliver improved accuracy in reconstructions based on a single distance as well as multiple distance phase-contrast images corrupted by noise and hampered by errors due to nonlinear imaging effects.

Comparison of two single-image phase-retrieval algorithms for in-line x-ray phase-contrast imaging

The attenuation of x-rays in a material forms the basis of x-ray radiography and tomography. By measuring the transmission of the x-rays over a large amount of raypaths, the three-dimensional (3D) distribution of the x-ray linear attenuation coefficient can be reconstructed in a 3D volume. In x-ray microtomography (μCT), however, the x-ray refraction yields a significant signal in the transmission image and the 3D distribution of the refractive index can be reconstructed in a 3D volume. To do so, several methods exist, on both a hardware and software level. In this paper, we compare two similar software methods, the modified Bronnikov algorithm and the simultaneous phase-and-amplitude retrieval. The first method assumes a pure phase object, whereas the latter assumes a homogeneous object. Although these assumptions seem very restrictive, both methods have proven to yield good results on experimental data.

X-ray Phase Contrast Imaging of Cell Isolation with Super-Paramagnetic Microbeads

Super-paramagnetic microbeads are widely used for cell isolation. Evaluation of the binding affinity of microbeads to cells using optical microscopy has been limited by its small scope. Here, magnetic property of microbeads was first investigated by using synchrotron radiation (SR) in-line x-ray phase contrast imaging (PCI). The cell line mouse LLC (Lewis lung carcinoma) was selected for cell adhesion studies. Targeted microbeads were prepared by attaching anti-VEGFR2 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2) antibody to the shell of the microbeads. The bound microbeads were found to better adhere to LLC cells than unbound ones. PCI dynamically and clearly showed the magnetization and demagnetization of microbeads in PE-50 tube. The cells incubated with different types of microbeads were imaged by PCI, which provided clear and real-time visualization of the cell isolation. Therefore, PCI might be considered as a novel and efficient tool for further cell isolation studies.

Using X-ray in-line phase-contrast imaging for the investigation of nude mouse hepatic tumors.

The purpose of this paper is to report the noninvasive imaging of hepatic tumors without contrast agents. Both normal tissues and tumor tissues can be detected, and tumor tissues in different stages can be classified quantitatively. We implanted BEL-7402 human hepatocellular carcinoma cells into the livers of nude mice and then imaged the livers using X-ray in-line phase-contrast imaging (ILPCI). The projection images' texture feature based on gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) and dual-tree complex wavelet transforms (DTCWT) were extracted to discriminate normal tissues and tumor tissues. Different stages of hepatic tumors were classified using support vector machines (SVM). Images of livers from nude mice sacrificed 6 days after inoculation with cancer cells show diffuse distribution of the tumor tissue, but images of livers from nude mice sacrificed 9, 12, or 15 days after inoculation with cancer cells show necrotic lumps in the tumor tissue. The results of the principal component analysis (PCA) of the texture features based on GLCM of normal regions were positive, but those of tumor regions were negative. The results of PCA of the texture features based on DTCWT of normal regions were greater than those of tumor regions. The values of the texture features in low-frequency coefficient images increased monotonically with the growth of the tumors. Different stages of liver tumors can be classified using SVM, and the accuracy is 83.33%. Noninvasive and micron-scale imaging can be achieved by X-ray ILPCI. We can observe hepatic tumors and small vessels from the phase-contrast images. This new imaging approach for hepatic cancer is effective and has potential use in the early detection and classification of hepatic tumors.

In-Line Phase-Contrast X-ray Imaging and Tomography for Materials Science.

X-ray phase-contrast imaging and tomography make use of the refraction of X-rays by the sample in image formation. This provides considerable additional information in the image compared to conventional X-ray imaging methods, which rely solely on X-ray absorption by the sample. Phase-contrast imaging highlights edges and internal boundaries of a sample and is thus complementary to absorption contrast, which is more sensitive to the bulk of the sample. Phase-contrast can also be used to image low-density materials, which do not absorb X-rays sufficiently to form a conventional X-ray image. In the context of materials science, X-ray phase-contrast imaging and tomography have particular value in the 2D and 3D characterization of low-density materials, the detection of cracks and voids and the analysis of composites and multiphase materials where the different components have similar X-ray attenuation coefficients. Here we review the use of phase-contrast imaging and tomography for a wide variety of materials science characterization problems using both synchrotron and laboratory sources and further demonstrate the particular benefits of phase contrast in the laboratory setting with a series of case studies.

Optimization of the in-line X-ray phase-contrast imaging setup considering edge-contrast enhancement and spatial resolution

Employing the approximation theory based on refraction and the definition of the total point-spread-function of the imaging system, the variation in the edge contrast of simple model samples is discussed with different source-to-sample and sample-to-detector distances, which actually means different spatial resolutions of the imaging system. The experiments were carried out with the Beamline 4W1A imaging setup at the Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility for simple model and insect samples. The results show that to obtain clear phase-contrast images of biologic tissues for the X-ray in-line imaging setup, with determined parameters such as the size of the X-ray source, the pixel size of the detector and the fixed source-to-sample distance, there is a range of optimized sample-to-detector distances. The analysis method discussed in this article can be helpful in optimizing the setup of X-ray in-line phase-contrast imaging.

Visualization of microvasculature by x-ray in-line phase contrast imaging in rat spinal cord

Computed tomography combined with angiography has recently been developed to visualize three-dimensional (3D) vascular structure in experi-mental and clinical studies. However, there remain difficulties in using conventional x-ray angiography to detect small vessels with a diameter less than 200 µm. This study attempted to develop a novel method for visualizing the micro-angioarchitecture of rat spinal cord. Herein, synchrotron radiation-based x-ray in-line phase contrast computed tomography (IL-XPCT) was used to obtain 3D micro-vessel structure without angiography. The digital phase contrast images were compared with conventional histological sections. Our results clearly demonstrated that the resolution limit of the spatial blood supply network in the normal rat thoracic cord appeared to be as small as ∼10 µm. The rendered images were consistent with that obtained from histo-morphology sections. In summary, IL-XPCT is a potential tool to investigate the 3D neurovascular morphology of the rat spinal cord without the use of contrast agents, and it could help to evaluate the validity of the pro- or anti-angiogenesis therapeutic strategies on microvasculature repair or regeneration.

Improving image quality of x-ray in-line phase contrast imaging using an image restoration method

For practical application of x-ray in-line phase contrast imaging, a high-quality image is essential for object perceptibility and quantitative imaging. The existing approach to improve image quality is limited by high cost and physical limitations of the acquisition hardware. A useful image restoration algorithm based on fast wavelet transform is proposed. It takes advantage of degradation model and extends the modulation transform function (MTF) compensation algorithm from Fourier domain to wavelet domain. The modified algorithm is evaluated through comparison with the conventional MTF compensation algorithm. Its deblurring property is also characterized with the evaluation parameters of image quality. The results demonstrate that the modified algorithm is fast and robust, and it can effectively restore both the lost detail and edge information while ringing artifacts are reduced.

Characterization of an x‐ray phase contrast imaging system based on the miniature synchrotron MIRRORCLE‐6X

The implementation of in-line x-ray phase contrast imaging (PCI) for soft-tissue patient imaging is hampered by the lack of a bright and spatially coherent x-ray source that fits into the hospital environment. This article provides a quantitative characterization of the phase-contrast enhancement of a PCI system based on the miniature synchrotron technology MIRRORCLE-6X. The phase-contrast effect was measured using an edge response of a plexiglass plate as a function of the incident angle of radiation. We have developed a comprehensive x-ray propagation model based on the system's components, properties, and geometry in order to interpret the measurement data. Monte-Carlo simulations are used to estimate the system's spectral properties and resolution. The measured ratio of the detected phase-contrast to the absorption contrast is currently in the range 100% to 200%. Experiments show that with the current implementation of the MIRRORCLE-6X, a target smaller than 30-40 μm does not lead to a larger phase-contrast. The reason for this is that the fraction of x-rays produced by the material (carbon filament and glue) that is used for mounting the target in the electron beam is more than 25% of the total amount of x-rays produced. This increases the apparent source size. The measured phase-contrast is at maximum two times larger than the absorption contrast with the current set-up. Calculations based on our model of the present imaging system predict that the phase-contrast can be up to an order of magnitude larger than the absorption contrast in case the materials used for mounting the target in the electron beam do not (or hardly) produce x-rays. The methods described in this paper provide vital feedback for guiding future modifications to the design of the x-ray target of MIRRORCLE-type system and configuration of the in-line PCI systems in general.

Microbubbles as contrast agent for in-line x-ray phase-contrast imaging

In the present study, we investigated the potential of gas-filled microbubbles as contrast agents for in-line x-ray phase-contrast imaging (PCI) in biomedical applications. When imaging parameters are optimized, the microbubbles function as microlenses that focus the incoming x-rays to form bright spots, which can significantly enhance the image contrast. Since microbubbles have been shown to be safe contrast agents in clinical ultrasonography, this contrast-enhancement procedure for PCI may have promising utility in biomedical applications, especially when the dose of radiation is a serious concern. In this study, we performed both numerical simulations and ex vivo experiments to investigate the formation of the contrast and the effectiveness of microbubbles as contrast agents in PCI.

X-ray spatial harmonic imaging of phase objects

Refractive index gradients in materials or at material interfaces lead to x-ray diffraction. Interference of this radiation with adjacent x-ray waves causes phase contrast that can be used for imaging purposes if an x-ray source with sufficient spatial coherence is used. The imaging modality presented here uses hard x radiation diffracted at interfaces, but requires only little spatial coherence. We report experiments showing, first, that image contrast is not diminished by motional blurring, and second, that contrast can be increased by orders of magnitude relative to in-line x-ray phase-contrast imaging. These properties substantially broaden the applicability of phase-sensitive imaging to moving samples and very weak density gradients.

Phase retrieval in X-ray phase-contrast imaging suitable for tomography

In-line phase-contrast X-ray imaging provides images where both absorption and refraction contribute. For quantitative analysis of these images, the phase needs to be retrieved numerically. There are many phase-retrieval methods available. Those suitable for phase-contrast tomography, i.e., non-iterative phase-retrieval methods that use only one image at each projection angle, all follow the same pattern though derived in different ways. We outline this pattern and use it to compare the methods to each other, considering only phase-retrieval performance and not the additional effects of tomographic reconstruction. We also outline derivations, approximations and assumptions, and show which methods are similar or identical and how they relate to each other. A simple scheme for choosing reconstruction method is presented, and numerical phase-retrieval performed for all methods.

Non-Invasive Microstructure and Morphology Investigation of the Mouse Lung: Qualitative Description and Quantitative Measurement

BackgroundEarly detection of lung cancer is known to improve the chances of successful treatment. However, lungs are soft tissues with complex three-dimensional configuration. Conventional X-ray imaging is based purely on absorption resulting in very low contrast when imaging soft tissues without contrast agents. It is difficult to obtain adequate information of lung lesions from conventional X-ray imaging.MethodsIn this study, a recently emerged imaging technique, in-line X-ray phase contrast imaging (IL-XPCI) was used. This powerful technique enabled high-resolution investigations of soft tissues without contrast agents. We applied IL-XPCI to observe the lungs in an intact mouse for the purpose of defining quantitatively the micro-structures in lung.FindingsThe three-dimensional model of the lung was successfully established, which provided an excellent view of lung airways. We highlighted the use of IL-XPCI in the visualization and assessment of alveoli which had rarely been studied in three dimensions (3D). The precise view of individual alveolus was achieved. The morphological parameters, such as diameter and alveolar surface area were measured. These parameters were of great importance in the diagnosis of diseases related to alveolus and alveolar scar.ConclusionOur results indicated that IL-XPCI had the ability to represent complex anatomical structures in lung. This offered a new perspective on the diagnosis of respiratory disease and may guide future work in the study of respiratory mechanism on the alveoli level.

Optimization of image recording distances for quantitative X-ray in-line phase contrast imaging

Compared to phase retrieval from single sample-to-detector distance (SDD) image, phase retrieval with multiple SDD images could improve the precision in quantitative X-ray in-line phase contrast imaging (QXIPCI). Among all the related phase retrieval approaches, the two-SDD-image-based one is the simplest and well compromises between precision and dose. However, how to optimize the recording distances for the two images to achieve highest precision, remains unsolved. In this paper, the problem was investigated systematically based on digital simulation and related experiments. Spectral correlation degree (SCD) is introduced to evaluate the pertinence between the two SDD images. The simulation results show that the highest retrieving precision could be obtained while the SDD of the second image is three times that of the first image. The best retrieval could be achieved when SDD of the first image is selected properly, meanwhile the SCD occurs with a typical damping oscillation. Experiments, carried out at the X-ray imaging beamline of SSRF, demonstrated the simulation results.