A machine learning-based strategy for predicting the mechanical strength of coral reef limestone using X-ray computed tomography

Different sedimentary zones in coral reefs lead to significant anisotropy in the pore structure of coral reef limestone(CRL),making it difficult to study mechanical behaviors.With X-ray computed tomography(CT),112 CRL samples were utilized for training the support vector machine(SVM)-,random forest(RF)-,and back propagation neural network(BPNN)-based models,respectively.Simultaneously,the machine learning model was embedded into genetic algorithm(GA)for parameter optimization to effectively predict uniaxial compressive strength(UCS)of CRL.Results indicate that the BPNN model with five hidden layers presents the best training effect in the data set of CRL.The SVM-based model shows a tendency to overfitting in the training set and poor generalization ability in the testing set.The RF-based model is suitable for training CRL samples with large data.Analysis of Pearson correlation coefficient matrix and the percentage increment method of performance metrics shows that the dry density,pore structure,and porosity of CRL are strongly correlated to UCS.However,the P-wave velocity is almost uncorrelated to the UCS,which is significantly distinct from the law for homogenous geomaterials.In addition,the pore tensor proposed in this paper can effectively reflect the pore structure of coral framework limestone(CFL)and coral boulder limestone(CBL),realizing the quantitative characterization of the heterogeneity and anisotropy of pore.The pore tensor provides a feasible idea to establish the relationship between pore structure and mechanical behavior of CRL.

Seeing through Materials:X-Ray Imaging Using Computed Tomography

X-ray computed tomography(XCT)has recently emerged as a powerful tool for characterizing the evolution of microstructure during phase transformation in three dimensional(3D)such as dendritic solidification of alloys.This paper briefly reviews the recent advances in the in-situ observation of aluminium alloys,magnesium alloys and nickel-based superalloys during solidification using laboratory XCT and synchrotron X-ray sources.The focus is on the growth kinetics of dendrites,porosity and secondary phases.In addition,in-situ characterization during the loading and corrosion process is also discussed.

Importance of computed tomography in posterior malleolar fractures:Added information to preoperative X-ray studies

BACKGROUND Ankle fractures are common lesions of the lower limbs.Approximately 40%of ankle fractures affect the posterior malleolus(PM).Historically,PM osteosynthesis was recommended when PM size in X-ray images was greater than 25%of the joint.Currently,computed tomography(CT)has been gaining traction in the preoperative evaluation of ankle fractures.AIM To elucidate the similarity in dimensions and to correlate PM size in X-ray images with the articular surface of the affected tibial plafond in the axial view on CT(AXCT)of a PM fracture.METHODS Eighty-one patients(mean age:39.4±13.5 years)were evaluated(54.3%were male).Two independent examiners measured PM size in profile X-ray images(PMXR)and sagittal CT(SAGCT)slices.The correlation of the measurements between the examiners and the difference in the PM fragment sizes between the two images were compared.Next,the PM size in PMXR was compared with the surface of the tibial plafond involved in the fracture in AXCT according to the Haraguchi classification.RESULTS The correlation rates between the examiners were 0.93 and 0.94 for PMXR and SAGCT,respectively(P<0.001).Fragments were 2.12%larger in SAGCT than in PMXR(P=0.018).In PMXR,there were 56 cases<25%and 25 cases≥25%.When PMXR was<25%,AXCT corresponded to 10.13%of the tibial plafond.When PMXR was≥25%,AXCT was 24.52%(P<0.001).According to the Haraguchi classification,fracture types I and II had similar PMXR measurements that were greater than those of type III.When analyzing AXCT,a significant difference was found between the three types,with II>I>III(P<0.001).CONCLUSION PM fractures show different sizes using X-ray or CT images.CT showed a larger PM in the sagittal plane and allowed the visualization of the real dimensions of the tibial plafond surface.

Use of high-resolution X-ray computed tomography and 3D image analysis to quantify mineral dissemination and pore space in oxide copper ore particles

Mineral dissemination and pore space distribution in ore particles are important features that influence heap leaching performance. To quantify the mineral dissemination and pore space distribution of an ore particle, a cylindrical copper oxide ore sample (I center dot 4.6 mm x 5.6 mm) was scanned using high-resolution X-ray computed tomography (HRXCT), a nondestructive imaging technology, at a spatial resolution of 4.85 mu m. Combined with three-dimensional (3D) image analysis techniques, the main mineral phases and pore space were segmented and the volume fraction of each phase was calculated. In addition, the mass fraction of each mineral phase was estimated and the result was validated with that obtained using traditional techniques. Furthermore, the pore phase features, including the pore size distribution, pore surface area, pore fractal dimension, pore centerline, and the pore connectivity, were investigated quantitatively. The pore space analysis results indicate that the pore size distribution closely fits a log-normal distribution and that the pore space morphology is complicated, with a large surface area and low connectivity. This study demonstrates that the combination of HRXCT and 3D image analysis is an effective tool for acquiring 3D mineralogical and pore structural data.

Microstructure Evolution of Sandstone Cemented by Microbe Cement Using X-ray Computed Tomography

The bio-sandstone, which was cemented by microbe cement, was firstly prepared, and then the microstructure evolution process was studied by X-ray computed tomography （X-CT） technique. The experimental results indicate that the microstructure of bio-sandstone becomes dense with the development of age. The evolution of inner structure at different positions is different due to the different contents of microbial induced precipitation calcite. Besides, the increase rate of microbial induced precipitation calcite gradually decreases because of the reduction of microbe absorption content with the decreasing pore size in bio-sandstone.

Effects of dry-wet cycles on three-dimensional pore structure and permeability characteristics of granite residual soil using X-ray micro computed tomography

Due to seasonal climate alterations,the microstructure and permeability of granite residual soil are easily affected by multiple dry-wet cycles.The X-ray micro computed tomography(micro-CT)acted as a nondestructive tool for characterizing the microstructure of soil samples exposed to a range of damage levels induced by dry-wet cycles.Subsequently,the variations of pore distribution and permeability due to drywet cycling effects were revealed based on three-dimensional(3D)pore distribution analysis and seepage simulations.According to the results,granite residual soils could be separated into four different components,namely,pores,clay,quartz,and hematite,from micro-CT images.The reconstructed 3D pore models dynamically demonstrated the expanding and connecting patterns of pore structures during drywet cycles.The values of porosity and connectivity are positively correlated with the number of dry-wet cycles,which were expressed by exponential and linear functions,respectively.The pore volume probability distribution curves of granite residual soil coincide with the χ^(2)distribution curve,which verifies the effectiveness of the assumption of χ^(2)distribution probability.The pore volume distribution curves suggest that the pores in soils were divided into four types based on their volumes,i.e.micropores,mesopores,macropores,and cracks.From a quantitative and visual perspective,considerable small pores are gradually transformed into cracks with a large volume and a high connectivity.Under the action of dry-wet cycles,the number of seepage flow streamlines which contribute to water permeation in seepage simulation increases distinctly,as well as the permeability and hydraulic conductivity.The calculated hydraulic conductivity is comparable with measured ones with an acceptable error margin in general,verifying the accuracy of seepage simulations based on micro-CT results.

Review of X-ray and computed tomography scan findings with a promising role of point of care ultrasound in COVID-19 pandemic

As healthcare professionals continue to combat the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)infection worldwide,there is an increasing interest in the role of imaging and the relevance of various modalities.Since imaging not only helps assess the disease at the time of diagnosis but also aids evaluation of response to management,it is critical to examine the role of different modalities currently in use,such as baseline X-rays and computed tomography scans carefully.In this article,we will draw attention to the critical findings for the radiologist.Further,we will look at point of care ultrasound,an increasingly a popular tool in diagnostic medicine,as a component of COVID-19 management.

X-ray Computed Tomography Characterization of 3D Tufted Twill Textile Composite for Aerostructures

Damage assessments in three dimensional (3D) textile composites subjected to mechanical loading can be performed by non-destructive and destructive techniques.This paper applies the two techniques to investigate the fracture behavior of 3D tufted textile composites.X-ray computed tomography as a non-destructive evaluation method is appropriate to detect damage locations and identify their progression in 3D textile composites.Destructive methods such as sectioning toward observing damage provide valuable information about damage patterns.The results of this research could be utilized to evaluate the initial cause of rupture in 3D tufted composites used in aerospace structures and analyze fracture modes and damage progression.

In situ compression and X-ray computed tomography of flow battery electrodes

Redox flow batteries offer a potential solution to an increase in renewable energy generation on the grid by offering long-term, large-scale storage and regulation of power. However, they are currently un- derutilised due to cost and performance issues, many of which are linked to the microstructure of the porous carbon electrodes used. Here, for the first time, we offer a detailed study of the in situ effects of compression on a commercially available carbon felt electrode. Visualisation of electrode structure us- ing X-ray computed tomography shows the non-linear way that these materials compress and various metrics are used to elucidate the changes in porosity, pore size distribution and tortuosity factor under compressions from 0%-90%.

Three dimensional distribution of surfactant in microspheres revealed by synchrotron radiation X-ray microcomputed tomography

This study investigated the formulation mechanism of microspheres via internal surfactant distribution. Eudragit L100 based microspheres loaded with bovine serum albumin were prepared by solid in oil in oil emulsion solvent evaporation method using acetone and liquid paraffin system containing sucrose stearate as a surfactant. The fabricated microspheres were evaluated for encapsulation efficiency, particle size, production yield, and in vitro release characteristics. The internal structures of microspheres were characterized using synchrotron radiation X-ray microcomputed tomography(SR-μCT). The enhanced contrast made the sucrose stearate distinguished from Eudragit to have its three dimensional(3D) distribution. Results indicated that the content and concentration determined the state of sucrose stearate and had significant influences on the release kinetics of protein. The dispersity of sucrose stearate was the primary factor that controlled the structure of the microspheres and further affected the encapsulation efficiency, effective drug loading, as well as in vitro release behavior. In conclusion, the 3D internal distribution of surfactant in microspheres and its effects on protein release behaviors have been revealed for the first time. The highly resolved 3D architecture provides new evidence for the deep understanding of the microsphere formation mechanism.

Kernel crack characteristics for X-ray computed microtomography(μCT)and their relationship with the breakage rate of maize varieties

The most significant problem of maize grain mechanical harvesting quality in China at present is the high grain breakage rate(BR).BR is often the key characteristic that is measured to select hybrids desirable for mechanical grain harvesting.However,conventional BR evaluation and measurement methods have challenges and limitations.Microstructural crack parameters evaluation of maize kernel is of great importance to BR.In this connection,X-ray computed microtomography(μ-CT)has proven to be a quite useful method for the assessment of microstructure,as it provides important microstructural parameters,such as object volume,surface,surface/volume ratio,number of closed pores,and others.X-ray computed microtomography is a non-destructive technique that enables the reuse of samples already measured and also yields bidimensional(2D)cross-sectional images of the sample as well as volume rendering.In this paper,six different maize hybrid genotypes are used as materials,and the BR of the maize kernels of each variety is tested in the field mechanical grain harvesting,and the BR is used as an index for evaluating the breakage resistance of the variety.The crack characteristic parameters of kernel were detected by X-ray micro-computed tomography,and the relationship between the BR and the kernel crack characteristics was analyzed by stepwise regression analysis.Establishing a relationship between crack characteristic parameters and BR of maize is vital for judging breakage resistance.The results of stepwise multiple linear regression(MLR)showed that the crack characteristics of the object surface,number of closed pores,surface of closed pores,and closed porosity percent were significantly correlated to the BR of field mechanical grain harvesting,with the standard partial regression coefficients of–0.998,–0.988,–0.999,and–0.998,respectively.The R2 of this model was 0.999.Results validation showed that the Stepwise MLR Model could well predict the BR of maize based on these four variables.

Isotropic compression behavior of granular assembly with non-spherical particles by X-ray micro-computed tomography and discrete element modeling

The particle morphological properties,such as sphericity,concavity and convexity,of a granular assembly significantly affect its macroscopic and microscopic compressive behaviors under isotropic loading condition.However,limited studies on investigating the microscopic behavior of the granular assembly with real particle shapes under isotropic compression were reported.In this study,X-ray computed tomography(mCT)and discrete element modeling(DEM)were utilized to investigate isotropic compression behavior of the granular assembly with regard to the particle morphological properties,such as particle sphericity,concavity and interparticle frictions.The mCT was first used to extract the particle morphological parameters and then the DEM was utilized to numerically investigate the influences of the particle morphological properties on the isotropic compression behavior.The image reconstruction from mCT images indicated that the presented particle quantification algorithm was robust,and the presented microscopic analysis via the DEM simulation demonstrated that the particle surface concavity significantly affected the isotropic compression behavior.The observations of the particle connectivity and local void ratio distribution also provided insights into the granular assembly under isotropic compression.Results found that the particle concavity and interparticle friction influenced the most of the isotropic compression behavior of the granular assemblies.

Performance evaluation of the simpli¯ed spherical harmonics approximation for cone-beam X-ray luminescence computed tomography imaging

As an emerging molecular imaging modality,cone-beam X-ray luminescence computed tomog-raphy(CB-XLCT)uses X-ray-excitable probes to produce near-infrared(NIR)luminescence and then reconst ructs three-dimensional(3D)distribution of the probes from surface measurements.A proper photon-transportation model is critical to accuracy of XLCT.Here,we presented a systematic comparison between the common-used Monte Carlo model and simplified spherical harmonics(SPN).The performance of the two methods was evaluated over several main spec-trums using a known XLCT material.We designed both a global measurement based on the cosine similarity and a locally-averaged relative error,to quantitatively assess these methods.The results show that the SP_(3) could reach a good balance between the modeling accuracy and computational efficiency for all of the tested emission spectrums.Besides,the SP_(1)(which is equivalent to the difusion equation(DE))can be a reasonable alternative model for emission wavelength over 692nm.In vivo experiment further demonstrates the reconstruction perfor-mance of the SP:and DE.This study would provide a valuable guidance for modeling the photon-transportation in CB-XLCT.

X-Ray Computed Tomography for Root Quantification

Soil cores from a field growing barley and barley mutants without root hairs under conventional and minimum tillage were sampled. They were X-ray scanned to produce a 3D image and then the roots were washed out and weight and length were determined by conventional means. Root volume and surface area were then calculated from the 3D images using state of the art software and methodology, and the measured and calculated measures were correlated. The only strong and significant correlation was between measured weight and calculated volume for mutants without root hairs. It is concluded that the software cannot segment out very small roots, but segmentation accuracy also depends on root structure in some unknown way. Any study using X-ray computed tomography to quantify roots as they grow in situ should start with a calibration for the conditions in question.

Distinct root system acclimation patterns of seagrass Zostera japonica in sediments of different trophic status:a research by X-ray computed tomography

Conspecific seagrass living in differing environments may develop different root system acclimation patterns.We applied X-ray computed tomography(CT)for imaging and quantifying roots systems of Zostera japonica collected from typical oligotrophic and eutrophic sediments in two coastal sites of northern China,and determined sediment physicochemical properties that might influence root system morphology,density,and distribution.The trophic status of sediments had little influence on the Z.japonica root length,and diameters of root and rhizome.However,Z.japonica in oligotrophic sediment developed the root system with longer rhizome node,deeper rhizome distribution,and larger allocation to below-ground tissues in order to acquire more nutrients and relieve the N deficiency.And the lower root and rhizome densities of Z.japonica in eutrophic sediment were mainly caused by fewer shoots and shorter longevity,which was resulted from the more serious sulfide inhibition.Our results systematically revealed the effect of sediment trophic status on the phenotypic plasticity,quantity,and distribution of Z.japonica root system,and demonstrated the feasibly of X-ray CT in seagrass root system research.

Tectonic evolution of the Karakoram metamorphic complex(NW Himalayas)reflected in the 3D structures of spiral garnets:Insights from X-ray computed micro-tomography

Spiral garnet porphyroblasts are known to record lengthy periods of deformation and metamorphism by preserving single or multiple FIAs(Foliation Intersection Axis)formed normal to tectonic shortening directions.Thanks to technological advances in X-ray computed micro-tomography(XCMT),FIAs can now be readily determined in relatively large samples in contrast to previous methods that require the preparation of a set of radial vertical and horizontal thin sections of samples.XCMT scanning not only alleviates tedious thin section based procedures but also illuminates the complete internal architecture of a rock sample allowing three-dimensional(3D)quantitative shape analysis of an individual porphyroblast as well as precise measurement of FIAs.We applied the technique to a sample from the Hunza Valley in the Karakoram metamorphic complex(KMC),NW Himalayas,containing numerous garnet porphyroblasts with spiral-shaped inclusion trails.The XCMT imaging reveals an E-W trending FIA within the sample,which is consistent with orthogonal N-S collision of the India-Kohistan Island Arc with Asia.Garnet long axes(X_(GT))have variable plunges that define a broad sub-vertical maximum and a small sub-horizontal maximum.The X_(GT) principle maxima lie at N-090 and N-120.Smaller maxima lie at N-020 and N-340.Geometric relationships between X_(GT) axes and FIA orientation in the sample suggest that porphyroblast shapes are controlled by the geometry of the lens-shaped microlithons in which they tend to nucleate and grow.The orientation of inclusion trails and matrix foliations in the sample are correlated with three discrete tectono-metamorphic events that respectively produced andalusite,sillimanite and kyanite in the KMC.Late staurolite growth in the sample reveals how the rocks extruded to the surface via a significant role of roll-on tectonics,which can be correlated with the Central Himalayas.

Usefulness of Chest Computed Tomography for Diagnosis of Idiopathic Pneumomediastinum with Negative Findings on Plain X-Ray

Idiopathic pneumomediastinum is rare in children. Few cases of patients with pneumomediastinum show negative findings on X-ray examination. Chest computed tomography (CT) was very useful for the diagnosis and evaluation of the extent of pneumomediastinum. We report here a case of idiopathic pneumomediastinum in a 15-year-old boy who exhibited no significant chest X-ray finding. The patient was referred to our institute for the further evaluation of pre-cordial pain and breathing difficulty. Precordial pain suddenly developed, when he was carrying a portable shrine on his shoulder (day of onset). He was admitted to another institute 3 days after onset because of worsening precordial pain. On admission, he presented with 98% saturation of hemoglobin in the peripheral blood under room air. Plain chest X-ray also revealed no abnormal findings. A half-dissolved gastrographin swallow showed no leakage of gastrographin from the pharynx and esophagus to the mediastinum, and no diverticulum within the esophagus. Plain chest CT revealed extensive emphysema around the trachea from the neck to the portion inferior to the carina of trachea. The patient was diagnosed with idiopathic pneumomediastinum because the cause was unclear. We decided to admit him to our institute under fasting conditions and rest. His symptoms improved 3 days after onset. The lesion had disap-peared 8 days after onset on chest CT. When young people experience precordial pain which increases on inspiration, we must consider pneumomediastinum in a differential diagnosis, and it is important to perform chest CT.

Ring artifacts removal in X-ray-induced acoustic computed tomography

X-ray-induced acoustic computed tomography(XACT)is a hybrid imaging modality for detecting X-ray absorption distribution via ultrasound emission.It facilitates imaging from a single projection X-ray illumination,thus reducing the radiation exposure and improving imaging speed.Nonuniform detector response caused by the interference between multichannel data acquisition for ring array transducers and amplifier systems yields ring artifacts in the reconstructed XACT images,which compromises the image quality.We propose model-based algorithms for ring artifacts corrected XACT imaging and demonstrate their effcacy on numerical and experimental measurements.The corrected reconstructions indicate significantly reduced ring artifacts as compared to their conventional counterparts.

X-ray luminescence computed tomography:an emerging molecular imaging modality

X-ray luminescence computed tomography(XLCT) is an emerging hybrid imaging modality that can be used as a new tool in molecular imaging. XLCT has the potential to achieve the high spatial resolution of X-ray imaging and the high sensitivity feature of optical imaging in deep tissues. In XLCT,high energy X-ray photons are used to excite X-ray excitable particles emitting optical photons to be measured for reconstruction of the particle distribution inside tissues. Numerical simulations and experimental studies have been performed and proved that XLCT is suitable for in vivo small animal imaging. The aim of this review paper is to introduce the background of XLCT and to detail the concept of XLCT,including a brief review of tw o types of XLCT imaging system designs. The major challenges in the development of XLCT are also described. Finally,the future applications and development directions of XLCT are discussed.

Tracking the phase transformation and microstructural evolution of Sn anode using operando synchrotron X-ray energy-dispersive diffraction and X-ray tomography

Tin(Sn)holds great promise as an anode material for next-generation lithium(Li)ion batteries but suffers from massive volume change and poor cycling performance.To clarify the dynamic chemical and microstructural evolution of Sn anode during lithiation and delithiation,synchrotron X-ray energydispersive diffraction and X-ray tomography are simultaneously employed during Li/Sn cell operation.The intermediate Li-Sn alloy phases during de/lithiation are identified,and their dynamic phase transformation is unraveled which is further correlated with the volume variation of the Sn at particle-and electrode-level.Moreover,we find that the Sn particle expansion/shrinkage induced particle displacement is anisotropic:the displacement perpendicular to the electrode surface(z-axis)is more pronounced compared to the directions(x-and y-axis)along the electrode surface.This anisotropic particle displacement leads to an anisotropic volume variation at the electrode level and eventually generates a net electrode expansion towards the separator after cycling,which could be one of the root causes of mechanical detachment and delamination of electrodes during long-term operation.The unraveled chemical evolution of Li-Sn and deep insights into the microstructural evolution of Sn anode provided here could guide future design and engineering of Sn and other alloy anodes for high energy density Li-and Na-ion batteries.