Quantitative analysis of bone mineral content by x-ray microtomography.
A new non-destructive method based on x-ray microtomography (micro-CT) was developed to measure calcium density in bone. X-ray micro-CT was used as a quantitative approach to acquire and reconstruct virtual cross-sections through the sample. Accurate beam-hardening correction was implemented. Grey values in the virtual cross-sections were calibrated as calcium mineral density in bone. From these cross-sections, three-dimensional models were created. Calcium content was calculated directly from images and expressed as percentage per volume and per weight. Calcium mineral density was studied by this method in a unique set of bones isolated from newts (Pleurodeles waltlii Michah) that had travelled into space. A demineralization of 10% was shown as a consequence of sustained micro-gravity.
Postnov
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AA
Department of Physics, University of Antwerp (RUCA), Groenenborgerlaan, 171, Antwerp B-2020, Belgium.
Vinogradov
A V
AV
Van Dyck
D
D
Saveliev
S V
SV
De Clerck
N M
NM
D000818:Animals; D015519:Bone Density; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D002118:Calcium / Q000032:analysis; D002244:Carbon / Q000032:analysis; D005269:Femur / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D051379:Mice; D010100:Oxygen / Q000032:analysis; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D010758:Phosphorus / Q000032:analysis; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013131:Spine / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*
D010758:Phosphorus; D002244:Carbon; D010100:Oxygen; D002118:Calcium