• Journal of radiological science and technology
• /
• v.38 no.2
• /
• pp.121-126
• /
• 2015

To image diagnosis in neurovascular diseases using Multi-Detector Computed Tomography(MDCT), injected the same contrast material when inspecting Brain Computed Tomography Angiography(BCTA) to examine radiation dose and Image quality on changing Cerebral Artery CT number by tube voltage. Executed an examination with same condition[Beam Collimation $128{\times}0.6mm$, Pitch 0.6, Rotation Time 0.5s, Slice Thickness 5.0mm, Increment 5.0mm, Delay Time 3.0sec, Care Dose 4D(Demension ; D)] except for tube voltage on 50 call patients for BCTA and divided them into two groups (25 people for a group, group A: 80, group B: 120kVp). From all the acquired images, set a ROI(Region of Interest) on four spots such as left cerebral artery, right cerebral artery, posterior cerebral artery and cerebral parenchyma to compare quantitative evaluation, qualitative evaluation and effective dose after measuring CT number value from Picture Archiving Communications System(PACS). Evaluating images with CT number acquired from BCTA examination, images with 80 kVp was 18% higher in Signal to Noise Ratio and 19% in Contrast to Noise Ratio than those with 120 kVp. It was seen that expose dose was decreased by over 50% with tube voltage 80 kVp than with 120 kVp. Group A (25 patients) was examination with tube voltage 80kVp while group B with 120 kVp to examine radiation dose and Image quality. It is considered effective to inspect with lower tube voltage than with conventional high kVp, which can reduce radiation dose without any affect on diagnosis.

• Journal of the Korean Magnetics Society
• /
• v.26 no.6
• /
• pp.219-225
• /
• 2016

In this study, for assessment of degenerative knee joint cartilage disease we acquired images by fat suppressed 3D spoiled gradient recalled (SPGR) and fat suppressed 3D $T2^*$ weighted imaging techniques. To do a quantitative evaluation, the knee joint cartilage was divided into medial femoral cartilage (MFC), medial tibial cartilage (MTC), lateral femoral cartilage (LFC), lateral femoral cartilage (LFC) and patella cartilage (Pat) to measure their respective signal intensity values, signal-to-noise ratio, and contrast-to-noise ratio. As for the measured values, statistical significance between two techniques was verified by using Mann-Whitney U-Test. To do a qualitative evaluation, two radiologists have examined images by techniques after which image artifact, cartilage surface, tissue contrast, and depiction of lesion distinguishing were evaluated based on 4-point scaling (1: bad, 2: appropriate, 3: good, 4: excellent), and based on the result, statistical significance was verified by using Kappa-value Test. 3.0T MR system and HD T/R 8ch knee array coil were used to acquire images. As a result of a quantitative analysis, based on SNR values measured by using two imaging techniques, MFC, LFC, LTC, and Pat showed statistical significance (p < 0.05), but MTC did not (p > 0.05). As a result of verifying statistical significance for measured CNR value, MFC, LFC, and Pat showed statistical significance (p < 0.05), while MTC and LTC did not show statistical significance (p > 0.05). As a result of a qualitative analysis, by comparing mean values for evaluated image items, 3D $T2^*$ weighted Image has indicated a slightly higher value. As for conformance verification between the two observers by using Kappa-value test, all evaluated items have indicated statistically significant results (p < 0.05). 3D $T2^*$ weighted technique holds a clinical value equal to or superior to 3D SPGR technique with respect to evaluating images, such as distinguishing knee joint cartilages, comparing nearby tissues contrast, and distinguishing lesions.

• Progress in Medical Physics
• /
• v.26 no.1
• /
• pp.28-35
• /
• 2015

In this study, we investigated the effects of an iterative reconstruction algorithm and an automatic exposure control (AEC) technique on image quality and radiation dose through phantom experiments with coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography protocols. We scanned the AAPM CT performance phantom using 320 multi-detector-row CT. At the tube voltages of 80, 100, and 120 kVp, the scanning was repeated with two settings of the AEC technique, i.e., with the target standard deviations (SD) values of 33 (the higher tube current) and 44 (the lower tube current). The scanned projection data were reconstructed also in two ways, with the filtered back projection (FBP) and with the iterative reconstruction technique (AIDR-3D). The image quality was evaluated quantitatively with the noise standard deviation, modulation transfer function, and the contrast to noise ratio (CNR). More specifically, we analyzed the influences of selection of a tube voltage and a reconstruction algorithm on tube current modulation and consequently on radiation dose. Reduction of image noise by the iterative reconstruction algorithm compared with the FBP was revealed eminently, especially with the lower tube current protocols, i.e., it was decreased by 46% and 38%, when the AEC was established with the lower dose (the target SD=44) and the higher dose (the target SD=33), respectively. As a side effect of iterative reconstruction, the spatial resolution was decreased by a degree that could not mar the remarkable gains in terms of noise reduction. Consequently, if coronary CT angiogprahy is scanned and reconstructed using both the automatic exposure control and iterative reconstruction techniques, it is anticipated that, in comparison with a conventional acquisition method, image noise can be reduced significantly with slight decrease in spatial resolution, implying clinical advantages of radiation dose reduction, still being faithful to the ALARA principle.

• Nuclear Engineering and Technology
• /
• v.54 no.2
• /
• pp.514-522
• /
• 2022

Non-destructive testing (NDT) technology is a widely used inspection method for agricultural products. Compared with the conventional inspection method, there is no extensive sample preparation for NDT technology, and the sample is not damaged. In particular, NDT technology is used to inspect the internal structure of agricultural products infested by pests. The introduction and spread of pests during the import and export process can cause significant damage to the agricultural environment. Until now, pest detection in agricultural products and quarantine processes have been challenging because they used external inspection methods. However, NDT technology is advantageous in these inspection situations. In this pilot study, we investigated the feasibility of X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify pest infestation in agricultural products. Three kinds of artificially pest-infested fruits (mango, tangerine, and chestnut) were non-destructively inspected using X-ray CT and MRI. X-ray CT was able to identify all pest infestations in fruits, while MRI could not detect the pest-infested chestnut. In addition, X-ray CT was superior to the quarantine process than MRI based on the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), image acquisition time, and cost. Therefore, X-ray CT is more appropriate for the pest quarantine process of fruits than MRI.

• Imaging Science in Dentistry
• /
• v.50 no.1
• /
• pp.1-7
• /
• 2020

Purpose: This study was performed to evaluate the magnitude of artifacts produced by gutta-percha and metal posts on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans obtained with different tube currents and with or without metal artifact reduction (MAR). Materials and Methods: A tooth was inserted in a dry human mandible socket, and CBCT scans were acquired after root canal instrumentation, root canal filling, and metal post placement with various tube currents with and without MAR activation. The artifact magnitude was assessed by the standard deviation (SD) of gray values and the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) at the various distances from the tooth. Data were compared using multi-way analysis of variance. Results: At all distances, a current of 4 mA was associated with a higher SD and a lower CNR than 8 mA or 10 mA (P<0.05). For the metal posts without MAR, the artifact magnitude as assessed by SD was greatest at 1.5 cm or less (P<0.05). When MAR was applied, SD values for distances 1.5 cm or closer to the tooth were reduced (P<0.05). MAR usage did not influence the magnitude of artifacts in the control and gutta-percha groups(P>0.05). Conclusion: Increasing the tube current from 4 mA to 8 mA may reduce the magnitude of artifacts from metal posts. The magnitude of artifacts arising from metal posts was significantly higher at distances of 1.5 cm or less than at greater distances. MAR usage improved image quality near the metal post, but had no significant influence farther than 1.5 cm from the tooth.

• Proceedings of the Korean Society of Computer Information Conference
• /
• 2017.01a
• /
• pp.235-238
• /
• 2017

This study was to develop a portable digital radiography (PDR) system with a function measuring the X-ray source-with-detector angle (SDA) and to evaluate the imaging performance for the diagnosis of chest imaging. The SDA device consisted of an Arduino, an accelerometer and gyro sensor, and a Bluetooth module. According to different angle degrees, five anatomical landmarks on chest images were assessed using a 5-point scale. Mean signal-to-noise ratio and contrast-to-noise ratio were 182.47 and 141.43. Spatial resolution (10% MTF) and entrance surface dose were 3.17 lp/mm ($157{\mu}m$) and 0.266mGy. The angle values of SDA device were not significant difference as compared to those of the digital angle meter. In chest imaging, SNR and CNR values were not significantly different according to different angle degrees (repeated-measures ANOVA, p>0.05). The visibility scores of the border of heart, 5th rib and scapula showed significant differences according to different angles (rmANOVA, p<0.05), whereas the scores of the clavicle and 1st rib were not significant. It is noticeable that the increase in SDA degree was consistent with the increase of visibility score. Our PDR with SDA device would be useful to be applicable to clinical radiography setting according to the standard radiography guideline at various fields.

• Journal of radiological science and technology
• /
• v.38 no.3
• /
• pp.213-220
• /
• 2015

This research was study the accuracy of three-dimensional stereotactic breast biopsy, using a core Needle Biopsy and to assess the accuracy of Stereotactic biopsy and Sono guided biopsy. Using Stereotactic QC phantom to measure the accuracy of the 3D sterotactic machine. CT Scan and equipment obtained in the measured X, Y, Z and compares the accuracy of the length. Using Agar power phantom compare the accuracy of the 3D sterotactic machine and 2D ultrasound machine. Z axis measured by the equipment to compare the accuracy and reliability. Check the accuracy by using visual inspection and Specimen Medical application phantom. The accuracy of the 3D sterotactic machine measured by Stereotactic QC phantom was 100%. Accuracy as compared to CT, all of X, Y, Z axis is p > 0.05. The accuracy of the two devices was 100% as measured by Agar powder phantom. There was no difference between t he t wo d evices as C T and p > 0.05. 3D sterotactic machine of the ICC was 0.954, 2D ultrasound machine was 0.785. 2D ultrasound machine was different according to the inspector. Medical application phantom experiments in 3D sterotactic machine could not find the Sliced boneless ham. 2D ultrasound machine has not been able to find a small chalk powder group. The reproducibility of the three-dimensional stereotactic breast biopsy was better than effect of Sono guided biopsy.

• Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society
• /
• v.14 no.1
• /
• pp.223-228
• /
• 2013

We evaluated the usefulness of $DTI_{6D}$ which was acquiring six direction diffusion data through compared to $DWI_{3D}$. Mean SNR and CNR were on $DWI_{3D}$ and $DTI_{6D}$ $44.01{\pm}13.36$, $37.15{\pm}11.44$ (p=0.029) and $18.47{\pm}9.66$, $19.88{\pm}9.20$(p=0.017). The number of lesions were $311{\pm}26.87$, $224.5{\pm}26.16$(p=0.041) on $DTI_{6D}$ and $DWI_{3D}$. Twenty patients were the more detected brain infarction lesion on $DTI_{6D}$. But there is no one the more detected on $DWI_{3D}$. And the more three direction diffusion data could get more information. However, we need to consider about the time consumption compared to DWI.

• Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society
• /
• v.14 no.10
• /
• pp.4962-4969
• /
• 2013

The purpose of this experiment is to evaluate of optimized FS techniques for T2 weighted abdominal MRI compared of TSE-SPIR fat suppression and GE-PROSET fat suppression. All MR examinations were performed on a 1.5 T(Philips, Medical System, Achieva) scanner using 16 channel mult-coils. All images were performed in the axial plane using TSE-SPIR and GE-PROSET. The mean SNRs of the retroperitoneal and mesenteric fat for TSE-SPIR and GE-PROSET were 31.50, 4.15 and 32.39, 7.03. The mean CNRs of the bowel and retroperitoneal, mesenteric fat for TSE-SPIR and GE-PROSET were 52.69, 74.54 and 26.12, 68.78). The delineation of bowel wall margins with TSE-SPIR(2.4) and GE-PROSET(1.8) were significantly improved using TSE-SPIR. The delineation of pancreas wall with TSE-SPIR(1.90), GE-PROSET(2.80) were significantly improved using GE-PROSET. In conclusion, TSE-SPIR fat suppression was superior to GE-PROSET fat suppression in T2 WI FS abdominal MRI.

• Investigative Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• /
• v.14 no.1
• /
• pp.31-40
• /
• 2010

Purpose : To compare the relative values of various fast breath-hold imaging sequences for superparamagnetic iron-oxide (SPIO)-enhanced hepatic MRI for the assessment of solid focal lesions with a 3T MRI unit. Materials and Methods : 102 consecutive patients with one or more solid malignant hepatic lesions were evaluated by spoiled gradient echo (GRE) sequences with three different echo times (2.4 msec [GRE_2.4], 5.8 msec [GRE_5.8], and 10 msec [GRE_10]) for $T2^*$-weighted imaging in addition to T2-weighted turbo spin echo (TSE) sequence following intravenous SPIO injection. Image qualities of the hepatic contour, vascular landmarks and artifacts were rated by two independent readers using a four-point scale. For quantitative analysis, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was measured in 170 solid focal lesions larger than 1 cm (107 hepatocellular carcinomas, nine cholangiocarcinomas and 54 metastases). Results : GRE_5.8 showed the highest mean points for hepatic contour, vascular anatomy and imaging artifact presence among all of the subjected sequences (p<0.001) and was comparable (p=0.414) with GRE_10 with regard to lesion conspicuity. The mean CNRs were significantly higher (p<0.001) in the following order: GRE_10 ($24.4{\pm}14.5$), GRE_5.8 ($14.8{\pm}9.4$), TSE ($9.7{\pm}6.3$), and GRE_2.4 ($7.9{\pm}6.4$). The mean CNRs of CCCs and metastases were higher than those of HCCs for all imaging sequences (p<0.05). Conclusion : Regarding overall performances, GRE using a moderate echo time of 5.8 msec can provide the most reliable data among the various fast breath-hold SPIO-enhanced hepatic MRI sequences at 3T unit despite the lower CNR of GRE_5.8 compared to that of GRE_10.