A Novel 2-Phase U-net Algorithm Combined with Optimal Mass Transportation for 3D Brain Tumor Detection and Segmentation

Utilizing the optimal mass transportation (OMT) technique to convert an irregular 3D brain image into a cube, a required input format for the U-net algorithm, is a brand new idea for medical imaging research. We develop a cubic volume-measure-preserving OMT (V-OMT) model for the implementation of this conversion. The contrast-enhanced histogram equalization grayscale of fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) in a brain image creates the corresponding density function. We then propose an effective two-phase U-net algorithm combined with the V-OMT algorithm for training and validation. First, we use the U-net and V-OMT algorithms to precisely predict the whole tumor (WT) region. Second, we expand this predicted WT region with dilation and create a smooth function by convoluting the step-like function associated with the WT region in the brain image with a 5×5×5 blur tensor. Then, a new V-OMT algorithm with mesh refinement is constructed to allow the U-net algorithm to effectively train Net1--Net3 models. Finally, we propose ensemble voting postprocessing to validate the final labels of brain images. We randomly choose 1000 and 251 brain samples from theBraTS 2021 training dataset, which contains 1251 samples, for training and validation, respectively. The Dice scores of the WT, tumor core (TC) and enhanced tumor (ET) regions for validation computed by Net1--Net3 were 0.93705, 0.90617 and 0.87470, respectively. A significant improvement in brain tumor detection and segmentation with higher accuracy is achieved.

Application of active thermography in study of the rotors dynamics

The article presents the infrared measurement techniques for analyzing and monitoring the dynamic state of the structure using advanced thermal imaging techniques. The article present an overview of the infrared measurement techniques and algorithms proposed research design based on the selected infrared measurement techniques. The article presents the results of a series of studies on the possibility of applying the vibrothermography methods in SHM systems. In particular it focuses on the analysis of the possibility of studying the dynamics of the rotor and the detection of its failures during operation. The results of vibrothermography studies of impeller made of plastic are presented. The results of studies based on algorithms developed by the authors. The article also presents the concept of the use of thermal imaging research in fault detection and monitoring of the dynamic state of real objects.

Seizures and epilepsy in patients with ischaemic stroke

Background With the increased efficacy of stroke treatments, diagnosis and specific treatment needs of patients with post-stroke seizures (PSS) and post-stroke epilepsy have become increasingly important. PSS can complicate the diagnosis of a stroke and the treatment of stroke patients, and can worsen post-stroke morbidity. This narrative review considers current treatment guidelines, the specifics of antiseizure treatment in stroke patients as well as the state-of-the-art in clinical and imaging research of post-stroke epilepsy. Treatment of PSS needs to consider indications for antiseizure medication treatment as well as individual clinical and social factors. Furthermore, potential interactions between stroke and antiseizure treatments must be carefully considered. The relationship between acute recanalizing stroke therapy (intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy) and the emergence of PSS is currently the subject of an intensive discussion. In the subacute and chronic post-stroke phases, important specific interactions between necessary antiseizure and stroke treatments (anticoagulation, cardiac medication) need to be considered. Among all forms of prevention, primary prevention is currently the most intensively researched. This includes specifically the repurposing of drugs that were not originally developed for antiseizure properties, such as statins. PSS are presently the subject of extensive basic clinical research. Of specific interest are the role of post-stroke excitotoxicity and blood–brain barrier disruption for the emergence of PSS in the acute symptomatic as well as late (> 1 week after the stroke) periods. Current magnetic resonance imaging research focussing on glutamate excitotoxicity as well as diffusion-based estimation of blood–brain barrier integrity aim to elucidate the pathophysiology of seizures after stroke and the principles of epileptogenesis in structural epilepsy in general. These approaches may also reveal new imaging-based biomarkers for prediction of PSS and post-stroke epilepsy. Conclusion PSS require the performance of individual risk assessments, accounting for the potential effectiveness and side effects of antiseizure therapy. The use of intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy is not associated with an increased risk of PSS. Advances in stroke imaging may reveal biomarkers for PSS.

Computational Imaging-Processing Comparison for Lumbar Spine Cadaveric Specimens with Clinical Medical Physics Applications

A series of improved imaging-computational and algorithmic methods for new/different lumbar cadaveric specimens was obtained. These are based on previous publications [3,3.1], with an improved-imaging research line. Results show a systematic study of each lumbar cadaveric specimen. Enhanced imaging findings and resolution for vertebral facets/positioning, contrast, anatomical parts separation and visualization of lumbar spines are demonstrated. Medical Physics and clinical bioengineering advances related to previous contributions are proven with imaging processing, programming codes/patterns, and computer vision tools. Findings constitute computational imaging methods which are appropriate for sharp and detailed anatomical-clinical analysis and comparisons among cadaveric specimens. These processing solutions are useful for lumbar spine computational study and anatomical dissection. Applications on Medical Physics, Biomedical Engineering, and Computational-Forensic Diagnosis are obtained from this cadaveric imaging systematic comparison and software methods.

Recent Advances in Fluorescence Imaging of Pulmonary Fibrosis in Animal Models

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a lung disease that may cause impaired gas exchange and respiratory failure while being difficult to treat. Rapid, sensitive, and accurate detection of lung tissue and cell changes is essential for the effective diagnosis and treatment of PF. Currently, the commonly-used high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) imaging has been challenging to distinguish early PF from other pathological processes in the lung structure. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using hyperpolarized gases is hampered by the higher cost to become a routine diagnostic tool. As a result, the development of new PF imaging technologies may be a promising solution. Here, we summarize and discuss recent advances in fluorescence imaging as a talented optical technique for the diagnosis and evaluation of PF, including collagen imaging, oxidative stress, inflammation, and PF-related biomarkers. The design strategies of the probes for fluorescence imaging (including multimodal imaging) of PF are briefly described, which can provide new ideas for the future PF-related imaging research. It is hoped that this review will promote the translation of fluorescence imaging into a clinically usable assay in PF.

Clinical Molecular Imaging for Atherosclerotic Plaque

Atherosclerosis is a well-known disease leading to cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. These conditions lead to a high mortality rate, which explains the interest in their prevention, early detection, and treatment. Molecular imaging is able to shed light on the basic pathophysiological processes, such as inflammation, that cause the progression and instability of plaque. The most common radiotracers used in clinical practice can detect increased energy metabolism (FDG), macrophage number (somatostatin receptor imaging), the intensity of cell proliferation in the area (labeled choline), and microcalcifications (fluoride imaging). These radiopharmaceuticals, especially FDG and labeled sodium fluoride, can predict cardiovascular events. The limitations of molecular imaging in atherosclerosis include low uptake of highly specific tracers, possible overlap with other diseases of the vessel wall, and specific features of certain tracers’ physiological distribution. A common protocol for patient preparation, data acquisition, and quantification is needed in the area of atherosclerosis imaging research.