Local Earthquake Tomography by trans-dimensional Monte Carlo Sampling

In this study a new, fully non-linear, approach to Local Earthquake Tomography is presented. Local Earthquakes Tomography (LET) is a non-linear inversion problem that allows the joint determination of earthquakes parameters and velocity structure from arrival times of waves generated by local sources. Since the early developments of seismic tomography several inversion methods have been developed to solve this problem in a linearized way. In the framework of Monte Carlo sampling, we developed a new code based on the Reversible Jump Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling method (Rj-McMc). It is a trans-dimensional approach in which the number of unknowns, and thus the model parameterization, is treated as one of the unknowns. I show that our new code allows overcoming major limitations of linearized tomography, opening a new perspective in seismic imaging. Synthetic tests demonstrate that our algorithm is able to produce a robust and reliable tomography without the need to make subjective a-priori assumptions about starting models and parameterization. Moreover it provides a more accurate estimate of uncertainties about the model parameters. Therefore, it is very suitable for investigating the velocity structure in regions that lack of accurate a-priori information. Synthetic tests also reveal that the lack of any regularization constraints allows extracting more information from the observed data and that the velocity structure can be detected also in regions where the density of rays is low and standard linearized codes fails. I also present high-resolution Vp and Vp/Vs models in two widespread investigated regions: the Parkfield segment of the San Andreas Fault (California, USA) and the area around the Alto Tiberina fault (Umbria-Marche, Italy). In both the cases, the models obtained with our code show a substantial improvement in the data fit, if compared with the models obtained from the same data set with the linearized inversion codes.

Factorization method and irregular inclusions in electrical impedance tomography

In electrical impedance tomography, one tries to recover the conductivity inside a physical body from boundary measurements of current and voltage. In many practically important situations, the investigated object has known background conductivity but it is contaminated by inhomogeneities. The factorization method of Andreas Kirsch provides a tool for locating such inclusions. Earlier, it has been shown that under suitable regularity conditions positive (or negative) inhomogeneities can be characterized by the factorization technique if the conductivity or one of its higher normal derivatives jumps on the boundaries of the inclusions. In this work, we use a monotonicity argument to generalize these results: We show that the factorization method provides a characterization of an open inclusion (modulo its boundary) if each point inside the inhomogeneity has an open neighbourhood where the perturbation of the conductivity is strictly positive (or negative) definite. In particular, we do not assume any regularity of the inclusion boundary or set any conditions on the behaviour of the perturbed conductivity at the inclusion boundary. Our theoretical findings are verified by two-dimensional numerical experiments.

Anatomic study of the feline bronchial and vascular structures with a 64 detector-row computed tomography

Multidetector row computed tomography over the last decade is commonly used in veterinary medicine. This new technology has an increased spatial and temporal resolution, could evaluate wider scanning range in shorter scanning time, providing an advanced imaging modality. Computed tomography angiographic studies are commonly used in veterinary medicine in order to evaluate vascular structures of the abdomen and the thorax. Pulmonary pathology in feline patients is a very common condition and usually is further evaluating with computed tomography. Up to date few references of the normal computed tomographic aspects of the feline thorax are reported. In this study a computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA) protocol is reported in normal cats and is compared with the up to date anatomical references. A CTPA protocol using a 64 MDCT in our study achieved high resolution images of the pulmonary arteries, pulmonary veins and bronchial lumen till the level of minor segmental branches. Feline pulmonary bronchial parenchyma demonstrates an architecture of mixed type with a monopedial model observed in the most anatomical parts and the dichotomic aspect is seen at the accessory lobe. The arterial and venous architecture is similar to the bronchial. Statistical analysis demonstrates the linear correlation of tracheal diameter to the felines weight. Vascular variations were noticed. The pulmonary venous system enters into the left atrium through three ostia (left cranial ostia: consisted of the anastomosis of the cranial and caudal portion of the left cranial pulmonary vein; right ostia: consisted of the anastomosis of the right cranial and middle pulmonary vein; and the caudal ostia: consisted of the anastomosis of the right and left caudal pulmonary vein). In conclusion CTPA is applicable in feline patients and provides an excellent imaging of the pulmonary arterial, venous and bronchial system till the level of minor segmental branches.

Valutazione della qualità delle immagini e della dose in multi-slice computed tomography per l'ottimizzazione dei protocolli clinici che impiegano sistemi di modulazione automatica

In questo studio ci siamo proposti di investigare i sistemi di modulazione automatica della dose sui sistemi TC Multislice (Automatic Exposure Control – AEC) da tre diversi produttori, aventi differenti indicatori di qualità delle immagini. Il presente lavoro è stato svolto presso il Servizio di Fisica Sanitaria dell’Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria - Policlinico Sant’Orsola-Malpighi di Bologna e consiste in un’analisi quantitativa della dose impiegata durante esami di Tomografia Computerizzata Multi-Slice (TCMS) e delle rispettive immagini radiologiche. Le immagini sono state acquisite con : GE LightSpeed VCT 64 e GE LightSpeed 16 (AEC AutomA 3D longitudinale e angolare), Siemens Sensation 16 (AEC CARE Dose 4D combinato), Philips Brilliance 16 e iCT 64 (separati in AEC ZDOM longitudinale e AEC DDOM angolare). Le acquisizioni TCMS sono state effettuate a differenti kV e mA di riferimento, al fine di investigarne gli effetti sulla modulazione, impiegando algoritmi di ricostruzione standard presenti su ogni macchina. Due fantocci antropomorfi simulanti la zona del torace e dell’addome sono stati utilizzati per simulare un paziente standard posizionato come in un esame clinico di routine ; a questo proposito, sono stati impiegati protocolli elicoidali standard con e senza modulazione. Sono inoltre stati testati differenti valori di indice di qualità delle immagini. Il profilo dei mA lungo la lunghezza è stato ottenuto utilizzando ImageJ, un programma open source comunemente utilizzato per l’elaborazione di immagini; i mAs sono stati normalizzati ad un fattore che tiene conto delle differenti geometrie e delle filtrazioni dei diversi scanner tomografici analizzati nell’esperienza. Il rumore è stato valutato tramite la scelta di determinate ROI (Region Of Interest) localizzate in aree il più possibili uniformi disponibili lungo i fantocci. Abbiamo registrato che una variazione del Noise Index o dei mAs di riferimento a seconda della tipologia di macchina analizzata risulta in uno shift dei profili di dose; lo stesso si è verificato quando sono stati cambiato kV o mA nella scout di acquisizione. Sistemi AEC longitudinali e combinati hanno mostrato profili di mAs normalizzati simili tra loro, con valori elevati evidenziati nella zona delle spalle e zona pelvi; sono state osservate differenze del 30-40% tra i differenti scanner tomografici. Solo in un caso di macchina analizzata si è verificato un comportamento opposto rispetto alle altre due tipologie di macchina in esame. A dispetto della differente natura dei sistemi AEC, i risultati ottenuti dai protocolli combinati e longitudinali sono simili tra loro. Il rumore presente nelle immagini è aumentato ad un livello accettabile e la sua uniformità lungo la direzione di scan è migliorata.

Imaging and modeling of pore scale processes in porous media using X-ray computed tomography and lattice Boltzmann solver

In der Erdöl– und Gasindustrie sind bildgebende Verfahren und Simulationen auf der Porenskala im Begriff Routineanwendungen zu werden. Ihr weiteres Potential lässt sich im Umweltbereich anwenden, wie z.B. für den Transport und Verbleib von Schadstoffen im Untergrund, die Speicherung von Kohlendioxid und dem natürlichen Abbau von Schadstoffen in Böden. Mit der Röntgen-Computertomografie (XCT) steht ein zerstörungsfreies 3D bildgebendes Verfahren zur Verfügung, das auch häufig für die Untersuchung der internen Struktur geologischer Proben herangezogen wird. Das erste Ziel dieser Dissertation war die Implementierung einer Bildverarbeitungstechnik, die die Strahlenaufhärtung der Röntgen-Computertomografie beseitigt und den Segmentierungsprozess dessen Daten vereinfacht. Das zweite Ziel dieser Arbeit untersuchte die kombinierten Effekte von Porenraumcharakteristika, Porentortuosität, sowie die Strömungssimulation und Transportmodellierung in Porenräumen mit der Gitter-Boltzmann-Methode. In einer zylindrischen geologischen Probe war die Position jeder Phase auf Grundlage der Beobachtung durch das Vorhandensein der Strahlenaufhärtung in den rekonstruierten Bildern, das eine radiale Funktion vom Probenrand zum Zentrum darstellt, extrahierbar und die unterschiedlichen Phasen ließen sich automatisch segmentieren. Weiterhin wurden Strahlungsaufhärtungeffekte von beliebig geformten Objekten durch einen Oberflächenanpassungsalgorithmus korrigiert. Die Methode der „least square support vector machine” (LSSVM) ist durch einen modularen Aufbau charakterisiert und ist sehr gut für die Erkennung und Klassifizierung von Mustern geeignet. Aus diesem Grund wurde die Methode der LSSVM als pixelbasierte Klassifikationsmethode implementiert. Dieser Algorithmus ist in der Lage komplexe geologische Proben korrekt zu klassifizieren, benötigt für den Fall aber längere Rechenzeiten, so dass mehrdimensionale Trainingsdatensätze verwendet werden müssen. Die Dynamik von den unmischbaren Phasen Luft und Wasser wird durch eine Kombination von Porenmorphologie und Gitter Boltzmann Methode für Drainage und Imbibition Prozessen in 3D Datensätzen von Böden, die durch synchrotron-basierte XCT gewonnen wurden, untersucht. Obwohl die Porenmorphologie eine einfache Methode ist Kugeln in den verfügbaren Porenraum einzupassen, kann sie dennoch die komplexe kapillare Hysterese als eine Funktion der Wassersättigung erklären. Eine Hysterese ist für den Kapillardruck und die hydraulische Leitfähigkeit beobachtet worden, welche durch die hauptsächlich verbundenen Porennetzwerke und der verfügbaren Porenraumgrößenverteilung verursacht sind. Die hydraulische Konduktivität ist eine Funktion des Wassersättigungslevels und wird mit einer makroskopischen Berechnung empirischer Modelle verglichen. Die Daten stimmen vor allem für hohe Wassersättigungen gut überein. Um die Gegenwart von Krankheitserregern im Grundwasser und Abwässern vorhersagen zu können, wurde in einem Bodenaggregat der Einfluss von Korngröße, Porengeometrie und Fluidflussgeschwindigkeit z.B. mit dem Mikroorganismus Escherichia coli studiert. Die asymmetrischen und langschweifigen Durchbruchskurven, besonders bei höheren Wassersättigungen, wurden durch dispersiven Transport aufgrund des verbundenen Porennetzwerks und durch die Heterogenität des Strömungsfeldes verursacht. Es wurde beobachtet, dass die biokolloidale Verweilzeit eine Funktion des Druckgradienten als auch der Kolloidgröße ist. Unsere Modellierungsergebnisse stimmen sehr gut mit den bereits veröffentlichten Daten überein.

Image quality and dose evaluation of filtered back projection versus iterative reconstruction algorithm in multislice computed tomography.

Il presente lavoro di tesi è stato svolto presso il servizio di Fisica Sanitaria del Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi di Bologna. Lo studio si è concentrato sul confronto tra le tecniche di ricostruzione standard (Filtered Back Projection, FBP) e quelle iterative in Tomografia Computerizzata. Il lavoro è stato diviso in due parti: nella prima è stata analizzata la qualità delle immagini acquisite con una CT multislice (iCT 128, sistema Philips) utilizzando sia l'algoritmo FBP sia quello iterativo (nel nostro caso iDose4). Per valutare la qualità delle immagini sono stati analizzati i seguenti parametri: il Noise Power Spectrum (NPS), la Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) e il rapporto contrasto-rumore (CNR). Le prime due grandezze sono state studiate effettuando misure su un fantoccio fornito dalla ditta costruttrice, che simulava la parte body e la parte head, con due cilindri di 32 e 20 cm rispettivamente. Le misure confermano la riduzione del rumore ma in maniera differente per i diversi filtri di convoluzione utilizzati. Lo studio dell'MTF invece ha rivelato che l'utilizzo delle tecniche standard e iterative non cambia la risoluzione spaziale; infatti gli andamenti ottenuti sono perfettamente identici (a parte le differenze intrinseche nei filtri di convoluzione), a differenza di quanto dichiarato dalla ditta. Per l'analisi del CNR sono stati utilizzati due fantocci; il primo, chiamato Catphan 600 è il fantoccio utilizzato per caratterizzare i sistemi CT. Il secondo, chiamato Cirs 061 ha al suo interno degli inserti che simulano la presenza di lesioni con densità tipiche del distretto addominale. Lo studio effettuato ha evidenziato che, per entrambi i fantocci, il rapporto contrasto-rumore aumenta se si utilizza la tecnica di ricostruzione iterativa. La seconda parte del lavoro di tesi è stata quella di effettuare una valutazione della riduzione della dose prendendo in considerazione diversi protocolli utilizzati nella pratica clinica, si sono analizzati un alto numero di esami e si sono calcolati i valori medi di CTDI e DLP su un campione di esame con FBP e con iDose4. I risultati mostrano che i valori ricavati con l'utilizzo dell'algoritmo iterativo sono al di sotto dei valori DLR nazionali di riferimento e di quelli che non usano i sistemi iterativi.

Regularization methods for the solution of a nonlinear least-squares problem in tomography

In this work we study a polyenergetic and multimaterial model for the breast image reconstruction in Digital Tomosynthesis, taking into consideration the variety of the materials forming the object and the polyenergetic nature of the X-rays beam. The modelling of the problem leads to the resolution of a high-dimensional nonlinear least-squares problem that, due to its nature of inverse ill-posed problem, needs some kind of regularization. We test two main classes of methods: the Levenberg-Marquardt method (together with the Conjugate Gradient method for the computation of the descent direction) and two limited-memory BFGS-like methods (L-BFGS). We perform some experiments for different values of the regularization parameter (constant or varying at each iteration), tolerances and stop conditions. Finally, we analyse the performance of the several methods comparing relative errors, iterations number, times and the qualities of the reconstructed images.

An optical coherence tomography study of a biodegradable vs. durable polymer-coated limus-eluting stent: a LEADERS trial sub-study

Incomplete endothelialization has been found to be associated with late stent thrombosis, a rare but devastating phenomenon, more frequent after drug-eluting stent implantation. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has 10 times greater resolution than intravascular ultrasound and thus appears to be a valuable modality for the assessment of stent strut coverage. The LEADERS trial was a multi-centre, randomized comparison of a biolimus-eluting stent (BES) with biodegradable polymer with a sirolimus-eluting stent (SES) using a durable polymer. This study sought to evaluate tissue coverage and apposition of stents using OCT in a group of patients from the randomized LEADERS trial.

Reproducibility of retinal thickness measurements in patients with age-related macular degeneration using 3D Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) (Topcon 3D-OCT 1000)

Conventional time-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become an important tool for following dry or exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Fourier-domain three-dimensional (3D) OCT was recently introduced. This study tested the reproducibility of 3D-OCT retinal thickness measurements in patients with dry and exudative AMD.

Postmortem whole-body computed tomography angiography visualizing vascular rupture in a case of fatal car crash

In addition to the increasingly significant role of multislice computed tomography in forensic pathology, the performance of whole-body computed tomography angiography provides outstanding results. In this case, we were able to detect multiple injuries of the parenchymal organs in the upper abdomen as well as lesions of the brain parenchyma and vasculature of the neck. The radiologic findings showed complete concordance with the autopsy and even supplemented the autopsy findings in areas that are difficult to access via a manual dissection (such as the vasculature of the neck). This case shows how minimally invasive computed tomography angiography can serve as an invaluable adjunct to the classic autopsy procedure.

Dual-energy computed-tomography cholangiography in potential donors for living-related liver transplantation: initial experience

To report our initial experience with dual-energy computed-tomography (CT) cholangiography in potential donors for living-related liver transplantation.

Small dense particles in the retina observable by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in age-related macular degeneration

To observe detailed changes in neurosensory retinal structure after anti-VEGF upload in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), by using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography use in macular diseases: a review

The introduction of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) has improved the clinical value for assessment of the eyes with macular disease. This article reviews the advances of SD-OCT for the diagnostic of various macular diseases. These include vitreomacular traction syndrome, cystoid macular edema/diabetic macular edema, epiretinal membranes, full-thickness macular holes, lamellar holes, pseudoholes, microholes, and schisis from myopia. Besides offering new insights into the pathogenesis of macular abnormalities, SD-OCT is a valuable tool for monitoring macular disease.

Optimal sites for orthodontic mini-implant placement assessed by cone beam computed tomography

OBJECTIVES: To determine (1) the optimal sites for mini-implant placement in the maxilla and the mandible based on dimensional mapping of the interradicular spaces and cortical bone thickness and (2) The effect of age and sex on the studied anatomic measurements. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The cone beam computed tomography images of 100 patients (46 males, 54 females) divided into two age groups (13-18 years), and (19-27 years) were used. The following interradicular measurements were performed: (1) Buccolingual bone thickness; (2) Mesiodistal spaces both buccally and palatally/lingually; and (3) Buccal and palatal/lingual cortical thicknesses. RESULTS: In the maxilla, the highest buccolingual thickness existed between first and second molars; the highest mesiodistal buccal/palatal distances were between the second premolar and the first molar. The highest buccal cortical thickness was between the first and second premolars. The highest palatal cortical thickness was between central and lateral incisors. In the mandible, the highest buccolingual and buccal cortical thicknesses were between the first and second molars. The highest mesiodistal buccal distance was between the second premolar and the first molar. The highest mesiodistal lingual distance was between the first and second premolars. The highest lingual cortical thickness was between the canine and the first premolar. The males and the older age group had significantly higher buccolingual, buccal, and palatal cortical thicknesses at specific sites and levels in the maxilla and the mandible. CONCLUSIONS: A clinical guideline for optimal sites for mini-implant placement is suggested. Sex and age affected the anatomic measurements in certain areas in the maxilla and the mandible.