Scan Plane Research Articles

Automatic Identification of Fetal Abdominal Planes from Ultrasound Images Based on Deep Learning.

Fetal biometric assessments through ultrasound diagnostics are integral in obstetrics and gynecology, requiring considerable time investment. This study aimed to explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) architectures in automatically identifying fetal abdominal standard scanning planes and structures, particularly focusing on the abdominal circumference. Ultrasound images from a prospective cohort study were preprocessed using CV2 and Keras-OCR to eliminate textual elements and artifacts. Optical character recognition detected and removed textual components, followed by inpainting using adjacent pixels. Six deep learning neural networks, Xception and MobileNetV3Large, were employed to categorize fetal abdominal view planes. The dataset included nine classes, and the models were evaluated through a tenfold cross-validation cycle. The MobileNet3Large and EfficientV2S achieved accuracy rates of 79.89% and 79.19%, respectively. Data screening confirmed non-normal distribution, but the central limit theorem was applied for statistical analysis. ANOVA test revealed statistically significant differences between the models, while Tukey's post hoc tests showed no difference between MobileNet3Large and EfficientV2S, while outperforming the other networks. AI, specifically MobileNet3Large and EfficientV2S, demonstrated promise in identifying fetal abdominal view planes, showcasing potential benefits for prenatal ultrasound diagnostics. Further studies should compare these AI models with established methods for automatic abdominal circumference measurement to assess overall performance.

Characterization of solid particles with different particle sizes in high-temperature coal tar pitch

ABSTRACT High-temperature coal tar pitch (HCTP) serves as a crucial precursor for high-quality carbon materials, while solid particle (SP) characteristics significantly influence the properties of the pitch. This study explores the compositional differences of SPs across various sizes to facilitate their effective separation. We employed ultrasonic graded centrifugation to isolate seven SP types of different sizes and analyzed their properties using SEM, SEM-EDS plane scanning, laser particle size analysis (LPSA), organic element analysis (EA), FT-IR, ICP-MS, and XRD. Our results reveal distinct variations in the SP distribution by particle size. As the particle size decreases, the proportion of particles in the 1–100 μm range decreases, while ultrafine particles (0.01–0.1 μm) become more prevalent. The carbon content in SPs initially increases and then decreases with smaller particle sizes, reaching a peak in medium-sized particles. Non-carbon impurities such as Si, S, Zn, Pb, Ca, Fe, and inorganic ash are concentrated in larger particles (SP1–SP2) and smaller particles (SP6–SP7). Notable inorganic compounds like PbS, ZnS, and FeS are found across all sizes, whereas SiO2 and CaCO3 are restricted to larger particles (SP1–SP2). Furthermore, smaller particles exhibit greater specific surface areas and pore volumes.

3D-printed endo-microscope with a fast magnetic actuator for axial image plane scanning

3D-printed endo-microscope with a fast magnetic actuator for axial image plane scanning

Automated Assessment of the Pulmonary Artery-to-Ascending Aorta Ratio in Fetal Cardiac Ultrasound Screening Using Artificial Intelligence.

The three-vessel view (3VV) is a standardized transverse scanning plane used in fetal cardiac ultrasound screening to measure the absolute and relative diameters of the pulmonary artery (PA), ascending aorta (Ao), and superior vena cava, as required. The PA/Ao ratio is used to support the diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD). However, vascular diameters are measured manually by examiners, which causes intra- and interobserver variability in clinical practice. In the present study, we aimed to develop an artificial intelligence-based method for the standardized and quantitative evaluation of 3VV. In total, 315 cases and 20 examiners were included in this study. We used the object-detection software YOLOv7 for the automated extraction of 3VV images and compared three segmentation algorithms: DeepLabv3+, UNet3+, and SegFormer. Using the PA/Ao ratios based on vascular segmentation, YOLOv7 plus UNet3+ yielded the most appropriate classification for normal fetuses and those with CHD. Furthermore, YOLOv7 plus UNet3+ achieved an arithmetic mean value of 0.883 for the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, which was higher than 0.749 for residents and 0.808 for fellows. Our automated method may support unskilled examiners in performing quantitative and objective assessments of 3VV images during fetal cardiac ultrasound screening.

Visualization of Aerial Droplet Distribution for Unmanned Aerial Spray Systems Based on Laser Imaging

Unmanned aerial spray systems (UASSs) are a commonly used spraying method for plant protection operations. However, their spraying parameters have complex effects on droplet distribution. The large-scale 3D droplet density distribution measurement method is insufficient, especially since the downwash wind is easily affected by the environment. Therefore, there is a need to develop a technique that can quickly visualize 3D droplet distribution. In this study, a laser imaging method was proposed to quickly scan moving droplets in the air, and a test method that can visualize 3D droplet distribution was constructed by using the traveling mode of the machine perpendicular to the scanning plane. The 3D droplet distribution of targeted and conventional UAVs was tested, and the methods for signal processing, noise reduction, and point cloud rebuilding for laser imaging were developed. Compared with the simulation results, laser imaging showed the pattern of droplet distribution from the two UAV structures well. The results showed that the laser imaging based method for detecting 3D droplet distribution is feasible, fast, and environmentally friendly.

Wear analysis of material measures and stylus probes in repetitive tactile calibration

Tactile industrial measuring instruments are frequently calibrated with material measures defined in ISO 5436–1 to ensure their function, determine their measurement uncertainty and assess the capability of measuring processes. Since these process needs to be repeated on a regular basis, the long-term stability of both material measures and the stylus is essential to enable a repeatable and reliable measurement. Since the tactile sampling of a material measure involves a mechanical interaction, there is the potential for wear when repetitive measurements are performed. We present a comprehensive experimental study on the effects of wear for different stylus instruments – including a reference plane scanning system and multiple skidded scanning systems. Multiple measurement methods are used to determine the state of the stylus and the surface of the material measure, both before and after their mechanical interaction. The impact of the wear on the accuracy of the results can be described, as can the connection between the wear and the hardness of the skidded probe. The study found that significant wear effects on surfaces with even >500 HV become qualitatively visible much earlier than they can be quantitatively detected, with extreme load cases of >1000 repetitive measurements at the same position being necessary to produce major wear influences. Thus, regular visual inspections in case of extensive repetitive measurements can be recommended, just as well as a low measuring force and a reduction of the number of measurements for measurement capability analysis to 12 measurements.

REVOLUTIONIZING ONCOLOGY IMAGING: A PARADIGM SHIFT THROUGH STANDARDIZED MRI PROTOCOLS: VOLUME 2

Introduction: Oncology imaging is always developing, thus rapid and precise diagnosis are essential for cancer therapy. Recognizing the importance of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, our Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Cancer Centre is standardizing MRI protocols to improve inspection and interpretation. This project aims to standardize, eliminate variance, and speed up patient care choices. Methods: Our standardized MRI procedures summarize scan parameters, sequences, modes, matrix and other data by body part. A 3 Tesla MRI machine was used to study how scanner differences affect parameters. Detailing appropriate pathological visualization sequences allowed diagnostic versatility. Localiser or scanogram was emphasized for exact scan plane alignment, ensuring uniform pictures for smooth comparisons. Results:Specific procedures were established for certain anatomical locations, with a focus on precise patient placement. Optimizing the localizer setup and selecting the appropriate coil can enhance the quality of images and increase diagnostic accuracy. Discussion: The conversation emphasizes the crucial need of standardizing MRI methods to ensure prompt and precise cancer diagnosis. The benefits of using this technology, such as maintaining consistency, saving time, and improving picture quality, help speed up the diagnostic process and lead to better outcomes for patients. Conclusion: Standardizing MRI procedures is a major step toward efficient and patient-centered cancer imaging, addressing varied oncological issues and improving consistency, time efficiency, and picture quality. Staff training and cooperation put our institution at the forefront of technology advances to improve cancer patient outcomes. We aim to enhance cancer care and treatment via cooperation, improvement, and a patient-centric approach.

Impact of Ultrasound Scanning Plane on Common Carotid Artery Longitudinal Wall Motion

ObjectiveThe arterial wall not only moves in the radial direction to expand circumferentially but also moves in the axial (longitudinal) direction in a predictable bidirectional pattern during a normal cardiac cycle. While common carotid artery (CCA) longitudinal wall motion (CALM) has been described previously, there is a lack of evidence-based method standardization to align practices for human measurement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether different scanning planes impact CALM outcomes in healthy males and females to provide clarity on data collection strategies. MethodsThirty-one healthy adults (16 females, 23 ± 3 y of age) underwent ultrasound scanning of the right CCA in the anterior, lateral, and posterior imaging planes. CALM was evaluated using a custom speckle-tracking algorithm and was analyzed as segmental motion outcomes (anterograde, retrograde, maximum displacement and radial-axial path length). ResultsNo differences in any CALM outcome were observed between imaging planes (p > 0.05), and equivalence testing indicated that retrograde CALM displacement was similar between anterior and posterior distal walls (p = 0.04). We observed no differences (p > 0.05) in CALM outcomes between the proximal (free-wall, adjacent to the internal jugular vein [IJV]) and distal wall in the posterior imaging plane. Qualitatively, it was more difficult to successfully track vascular tissue between the IJV and CCA due to the thin wall components and highly mobile wall in the radial direction. ConclusionIn the absence of clear differences between scanning planes, we recommend standardizing acquisition in the lateral plane and avoiding the IJV free-wall when evaluating CALM in humans.

Comparing Abdominal and Retroperitoneal Organ Sonographic Measurements to Postdissection Measurements: A Pilot Study

Objective: Variation in organ size can occur due to different sonographic scan planes used to make measurements. Diagnostic accuracy may be compromised due to the variations in organ measurement. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare sonographic measurements and actual organ measurements, taken predissection and postdissection, to determine the accuracy of sonographic measurements, taken in various sonographic scan planes. Materials and Methods: Sonographic organ measurements were made of the liver, kidney, and spleen, prior to cadaver dissection. Liver length measurements were acquired in the midclavicular and intercostal sonographic scan planes. All kidney length, height, and width measurements were acquired scanning from the anterior and coronal planes. Spleen measurements were acquired using an intercostal sonographic scan plane, using longest dimension for length, and acquiring transverse measurements from both a 90-degree and a 180-degree transducer rotation. Descriptive statistics were reported using mean, standard deviation, median, and interquartile range. Results: Liver length, spleen length, right kidney length and width, and left kidney width showed no measurement differences. Sonographic measurements of right kidney height varied ( P < .0001). The sonographic left kidney length was more accurate when acquired in the coronal plane ( P = .006), and the height measurement was more accurate taken from the anterior plane ( P < .001). Spleen width varied between the 90-degree and 180-degree transducer rotation, and postdissection measures ( P = .0010). Conclusion: This pilot study would suggest that there is a need for the development of standardized sonographic organ measurement protocols.

A new method for evaluating radial neck fractures based on Judet classification.

To propose a new method for evaluating paediatric radial neck fractures and improve the accuracy of fracture angulation measurement, particularly in younger children, and thereby facilitate planning treatment in this population. Clinical data of 117 children with radial neck fractures in our hospital from August 2014 to March 2023 were collected. A total of 50 children (26 males, 24 females, mean age 7.6 years (2 to 13)) met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Cases were excluded for the following reasons: Judet grade I and Judet grade IVb (> 85° angulation) classification; poor radiograph image quality; incomplete clinical information; sagittal plane angulation; severe displacement of the ulna fracture; and Monteggia fractures. For each patient, standard elbow anteroposterior (AP) view radiographs and corresponding CT images were acquired. On radiographs, Angle P (complementary to the angle between the long axis of the radial head and the line perpendicular to the physis), Angle S (complementary to the angle between the long axis of the radial head and the midline through the proximal radial shaft), and Angle U (between the long axis of the radial head and the straight line from the distal tip of the capitellum to the coronoid process) were identified as candidates approximating the true coronal plane angulation of radial neck fractures. On the coronal plane of the CT scan, the angulation of radial neck fractures (CTa) was measured and served as the reference standard for measurement. Inter- and intraobserver reliabilities were assessed by Kappa statistics and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Angle U showed the strongest correlation with CTa (p < 0.001). In the analysis of inter- and intraobserver reliability, Kappa values were significantly higher for Angles S and U compared with Angle P. ICC values were excellent among the three groups. Angle U on AP view was the best substitute for CTa when evaluating radial neck fractures in children. Further studies are required to validate this method.

Line-field confocal optical coherence tomography based on tandem interferometry with a focus-tunable lens.

This article introduces an innovative line-field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC-OCT) system based on tandem interferometry, featuring a focus-tunable lens for dynamic focusing. The principle of tandem interferometry is first recalled, and an analytical expression of the interferometric signal detected is established in order to identify the influence of key experimental parameters. The LC-OCT system is based on a Linnik-type imaging interferometer with a focus-tunable lens for focus scanning, coupled to a Michelson-type compensating interferometer using a piezoelectric linear translation stage for coherence plane scanning. The system achieves axial and lateral image resolutions of approximately 1 µm over the entire imaging depth (400 µm), in line with conventional LC-OCT. Vertical section images (B-scans) of skin acquired at 14.3 fps reveal distinguishable structures within the epidermis and dermis. Using refocusing and stitching, images of a tissue phantom were obtained with an imaging depth superior to 1.4 mm. The system holds promise for LC-OCT miniaturization, along with enhanced imaging speed and extended imaging depth.

Segmental deformity markers offer novel indicators of deformity progression risk in deformity-matched adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients.

Identification of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients with mild curvatures who pose significant risk of progressing to severe levels of curvatures is of paramount importance for clinical care. This study aimed to compare segmental deformity changes in AIS sub-cohorts that are dichotomised by progression status. Thirty-six female participants with Lenke 1 AIS curves were investigated with sequential MRIs during growth. Scans were reformatted to measure orthogonal segmental parameters, including sagittal/coronal wedging angles and axial rotation angles. Participants were dichotomised by progression. Two-tailed, independent sample t-tests were used to compare sub-cohort multi-segmental and segmental deformity parameters. Measurements were compared at each scan number and variable rates of change were determined using actual time between measures. AIS progression status sub-cohorts were comparable at scan 1 for multi-segmental deformity parameters (e.g. major thoracic curve angle, rib hump, kyphosis) (P > 0.05). However, apical measures of coronal IVD wedging, axial IVD rotation and axial vertebral rotation were segmental parameters at scan 1 which were larger for participants whose AIS would later go on to clinically progress (all P < 0.05). Measures of segmental hypokyphosis were comparable between groups. As development was tracked at each subsequent scan, coronal and axial plane differences between groups increased in both magnitude and number of differences. Initial disparity and then subsequent increasing magnitude of change of axial rotation may indicate a higher propensity to clinically progress in the future. This knowledge hopes to provide useful management information for AIS care providers and prognostic education for patients alike. II.

Simulation of femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structures on fused silica by considering intrapulse and interpulse feedback

The formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSSs) on fused silica upon irradiation with plane wave, double pulse, spot processing, and scanning processing (pulse duration tp = 35 fs, center wavelength λ = 800 nm, low repetition rate ≈1 kHz) is studied theoretically with an improved three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain plasma model. The model covers both intrapulse feedback under single shot and interpulse feedback under multi-shots, thus enabling better prediction of transient responses during laser–material interaction and the evolution of the ablated morphology and accumulated defects’ density with more shots. In simulations of a single plane wave, a double pulse can modulate LIPSS periodicity. In simulations of spot processing with Gaussian beam, an increase in the number of shots results in a noticeable ablation pattern where high-spatial-frequency LIPSS surrounds low-spatial-frequency LIPSS at a fluence of 2.8 J/cm2. Moreover, simulations of scanning processing with Gaussian beam showcase the broad applicability of this model, revealing that the orientation of the LIPSS depends on the polarization direction rather than the scanning path. This new model provides a powerful tool to simulate the formation of LIPSS on silica, particularly when temporally modulated laser is involved or predicting the evolution of morphology dependent on the number of shots.

Advantages of internal reference in holographic shaping ps supercontinuum pulses through multimode optical fibers.

The use of wavefront shaping has found extensive application to develop ultra-thin endoscopic techniques based on multimode optical fibers (MMF), leveraging on the ability to control modal interference at the fiber's distal end. Although several techniques have been developed to achieve MMF-based laser-scanning imaging, the use of short laser pulses is still a challenging application. This is due to the intrinsic delay and temporal broadening introduced by the fiber itself, which requires additional compensation optics on the reference beam during the calibration procedure. Here we combine the use of a supercontinuum laser and an internal reference-based wavefront shaping system to produce focused spot scanning in multiple planes at the output of a step-index multimode fiber, without the requirement of a delay line or pulse pre-compensation. We benchmarked the performances of internal vs external reference during calibration, finding that the use of an internal reference grants better focusing efficiency. The system was characterized at different wavelengths, showcasing the wavelength resiliency of the different parameters. Lastly, the scanning of focal planes beyond the fiber facet was achieved by exploiting the chromato-axial memory effect.

Back-focal plane scanning spectroscopy for investigating the optical dispersion of large-area two-dimensional photonic crystal fabricated by capillary force lithography

In this article, we introduce our custom-built back-focal plane (BFP) scanning spectroscopy to explore an angle-resolved optical dispersion in two-dimensional (2D) photonic crystal (PhC) constructed with hexagonal lattice of nano-scaled dielectric rods. We fabricated a uniformly large-area photonic crystal measuring 1 cm by 0.5 cm, featuring a polymer-based hexagonal lattice on a gold layer, using capillary force lithography. This precision enables the effective confinement of photonic modes, leading to enhanced optical interactions. We successfully map out the angle-resolved reflectance spectra by directly scanning BFP, revealing the structure's angle dependent optical response and providing insights into its iso-frequency contours. Our approach simplifies the exploration of advanced optical materials, highlighting the role of precise fabrication and measurement techniques in understanding and utilizing the optical properties of structured materials for various technological applications.

Method of constructive synthesis of a flat active phased array antenna with a limited number of active channels

A method of constructive synthesis of a flat active phased array antenna from linear horizontal sublattices with an unequal number of antenna elements and the number of active channels equal to the number of sublattices is proposed. The transmission coefficients of the active channels, the number of elements in the sublattices and the coordinates of the placement of the phase centers of the sublattices of the active phased array antenna array in a flat opening are considered as the desired parameters of the constructive synthesis problem. Restrictions are set on the shape of the boundary of the flat opening and the amplitude distribution in the opening of the active phased array antenna. The requirements for the scanning sector of the active phased array antenna are formulated. The method is based on an iterative procedure. In the process of its implementation, the deviation of the amplitude distribution in the opening of the active phased array antenna from the sublattices from the specified amplitude distribution is minimized. The method has shown its efficiency in the formation of various amplitude distributions in the AFAR opening. The stability of the problem solution to external influences, including in the event of failures of antenna elements, is estimated. The solutions obtained can be used in monopulse radar stations with mechanical beam scanning in the azimuthal plane and electronic scanning in the angular plane.

Self-conducted sonographic monitoring of the knee in patients with haemophilia-A feasibility study.

To evaluate whether patients with haemophilia (PwH) can be enabled to perform ultrasonography (US) of their knees without supervision according to the Haemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with Ultrasound (HEAD-US) protocol and whether they would be able to recognize pathologies. Five PwH (mean age 29.6 years, range 20-48 years) were taught the use of a portable US device and the HEAD-US protocol. Subsequently, the patients performed US unsupervised at home three times a week for a total of 6 weeks with a reteaching after 2 weeks. All images were checked for mapping of the landmarks defined in the HEAD-US protocol by a radiologist. In a final test after the completion of the self-sonography period, participants were asked to identify scanning plane and potential pathology from US images of other PwH. On the images of the self-performed scans, 82.7% of the possible anatomic landmarks could be identified and 67.5% of the requested images were unobjectionable, depicting 100% of the required landmarks. There was a highly significant improvement in image quality following reteaching after 2 weeks (74.80±36.88% vs. 88.31±19.87%, p<.001). In the final test, the participants identified the right scanning plane in 85.0% and they correctly identified pathology in 90.0% of images. Appropriately trained PwH can perform the HEAD-US protocol of their knee with high quality and are capable to identify pathologic findings on these standardized images. Asynchronous tele-sonography could enable early therapy adjustment and thereby possibly reduce costs.

Deep learning-based automated scan plane positioning for brain magnetic resonance imaging

Deep learning-based automated scan plane positioning for brain magnetic resonance imaging

Size matters: Exploring part size effects on microstructure, defects, and mechanical property in optimized laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) additive manufacturing

In laser-based metal additive manufacturing (MAM), effective process optimization requires a thorough analysis of variations across the process window. Despite the common practice of utilizing small-sized coupons to optimize process parameters in laser-based MAM, this study challenges this convention. Through an analysis of microstructure and defect differences in Fe-Ni material parts produced via laser-powder bed fusion (L-PBF), the study reveals significant discrepancies in microstructure, defect and mechanical property based on part size. As part size increases, lack-of-fusion defects and cracks become more pronounced, resulting in a decrease in density from 8.11 g/cm3 to 8.02 g/cm3, leading to constrained grain growth with a decrease of grain size from 41.88 μm to 23.07 μm in the scanning plane. Each defect and microstructural difference was traced back to variations in thermal history based on part size. Finite element method simulations, highlighting differences in thermal history from scanning a single layer to the entire part, showed that an increase in scan length with a widened scan area enlarged the period of the thermal history cycle, leading to considerable cooling. This study underscores crucial considerations for future researchers engaged in process optimization for novel alloy systems using laser-based MAM processes.

Analysis of cutting tool geometry induced machining response, surface integrity and anisotropy relation of additively manufactured 316L stainless steel

Although the machining responses of additively manufactured (AM) materials generally differ from wrought materials due to their microstructural properties, there is no study examining the effects of varying cutting tool rake angles in the machining of AM 316L stainless steel material. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effects of machining using varying cutting tool rake angles and cutting speeds on the cutting response in terms of cutting force, tool wear, chip morphology and surface integrity characteristics such as microstructure, micro-hardness and x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of powder bed fusion – laser beam (PBF-LB) 316L. The effect of the tool rake angle on the anisotropic structure of the material was revealed by examining the machining-induced affected layer from both the built and scan planes and by comparing it with the wrought material. The findings showed that PBF-LB 316L behaves more abrasively than the wrought, creating higher cutting force and tool wear due to the differences in the friction coefficient and thermal conductivity of the materials. Although the machining-induced affected layer is not the same in the built and scan planes of the PBF-LB material due to anisotropy, it is considerably higher compared to the wrought material, especially at negative rake angles. While the hardness of PBF-LB material is higher at a low cutting speed and negative rake angle, the hardening capacity of wrought material is higher at high cutting speed and negative rake angle. PBF-LB chips have repeated adiabatic shear bands and the secondary deformation zone is more evident in wrought chips.