I really am a lover soup as it comforting, wholesome and won't break the bank. My Sweet Potato, Corn and Mushroom Soup is so simple and can be easily thrown together in 30mins to make the perfect lunch or light dinner. I especially love it with a slice of toast smothered in hummus or avocado.
Start by wilting mushrooms in a large pot with a dash of water. Once softened and liquid is absorbed set aside in a bowl.
To the pot add oil, leak and soften on a medium heat.
Once the leak looks translucent, add the garlic and continue frying for 2mins.
Add in potato, stock cube, pepper and boiling water to just covering the potatoes.
Allow to bubble away, medium- high heat with the lid on until potato is soft.
Add corn and blend until smooth.
Stir in mushrooms and herbs.


John Willmott School is an 11–18 community secondary school located in Sutton Coldfield, England and is part of the Birmingham Local Education Authority, and has been a specialist technology college since September 2001. There are 1,186 students on roll, of whom 230 are in the sixth form. Students from a White British background represent 82% of the school population. Although the school is located in the Falcon Lodge area of Sutton Coldfield, it also serves pupils from elsewhere in Birmingham such as Erdington and Castle Vale. In 2006 (at the time of the last Ofsted report) the proportions of students receiving free school meals and students who have special educational needs were reported as being above the national average.


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Q: Android Studio - Device File Explorer Picture Directory I have succefully created an Inten to take a photo and save it in this directory:
/storage/emulated/0/Android/data/com.iyfuture.peddypaper/files/Pictures/Image.jpg
After this I do a display of this picture (using the previous URI directory) to make sure that is working. And it is!
My question now is related with the android studio device file explorer.
If I wasn´t sucessfull to do the display of this image how could I check if it is inside this directory.
In other words how can I find this image inside the device file explorer?
I have searched in the "popular" directory data/data/com.iyfuture.peddypaper but there is nothing there...
I also have the device file explorer synchronized and the mobile phone emulator I am using it is the same as the one that is selected on top of the device file explorer.

A: It is under sdcard/Android/data/com.iyfuture.peddypaper/files/Pictures/Image.jpg

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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InfoEntertainmentAnime
What is Isekai? Explained in detail
Sara Javed
Many fans love anime and manga due to the versatile Japanese culture and adorable characters But there are many terms that you love to learn but don't know their meaning. Like Tsundere. Here, I will explain the word Isekai in meaning and also in detail. Let's begin to learn the anime world better.
1) What is Isekai and what does it mean?
2) Brief History
3) Modern Version of Isekai
What is Isekai and what does it mean?
Isekai is a subgenre of anime and manga where the main characters or protagonists are pushed or teleported into another world. They u familiar or strange world makes them go through different scenarios. And make the series interesting with each episode.
Most of the game might be unaware of this term. You can easily understand it with the example of Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan. Here, you have to get to see the creative minds' imagination of adventures, fantasy, and fun. Let's get into more detail about isekai.
Isekai was previously known as trapped in another world genre. The genre back then was the main difference between the isekai manga and other fantasy stories. In most of the isekai anime, the main protagonists are teleported to another world, physical or spiritual. Or reborn in another time or world with a different life or world. Inuyasha and Red River are the best examples of it.
The traditional concept of the isekai anime is that our main protagonist tries to find a way back home or they are reincarnation into another being. Or their struggles trying to fit in the new world. Another relatable term is reverse isekai. It is the reverse of the fantasy world back to normal life. Those struggles and challenges are pop-up series for the fans to watch.
Isekai has been in existence since the 1990s. It's related to a young girl who has swayed away from new-world adventures and challenges in this era. There is a dilemma between the real and fantasy world for the protagonists.
This isekai was very popular in the western part of the world. As they switch from the modern world to another time as a unique and terrific idea. But it ended with the Inuyasha series with massive success.
Modern Version of Isekai
In the early 2010s, Sword Art Online was the beginning of a new era of male protagonists. Mentally strong, socially awkward, and heavily featured young men are the main focus of the series now.
On the other hand, female protagonists are very famous for their reincarnation and rebirth into other or fantastical worlds struggling for a way out or to adapt to a new environment. Whereas, male protagonists are not action triggered or violent. The story leans towards the slice of life.
With this era, a new subgenre was born as slice-of-life fantasy isekai. It is a subgenre where protagonists are reincarnated in a fantasy world. This subgenre attracts a lot of audiences due to its action and adventure story with the tangled fantastical world.
In the end, there are many other isekai anime series that you will surely love. Check them and hopefully, now you understand the different genres of anime.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Justia Patents US Patent Application for X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS Patent Application (Application #20210059630)
X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS
This X-ray imaging apparatus (100) includes a rotation mechanism (8) for relatively rotating an imaging system (200) constituted by an X-ray source (1), a detector (5), a first grating (2) and a second grating (3), and an image processing unit (6) for generating a dark-field image based on an X-ray intensity distribution at each of a plurality of rotation angles. The image processing unit (6) is configured to perform a scattering correction for reducing a dark-field signal of a pixel whose dark-field signal is larger than a threshold value (V1) among a plurality of pieces of pixels in the dark-field image to a set value (V2).
The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging apparatus, and more specifically to an X-ray imaging apparatus equipped with an image processing unit for generating a dark-field image of a subject.
Conventionally, an X-ray imaging apparatus equipped with an image processing unit for generating a dark-field image of a subject is known. Such an X-ray imaging apparatus is disclosed, for example, in M Bech, et al. "Quantitative X-ray dark-field computed tomography" PHYSICS IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 55 (2010) p. 5529-p. 5539.
The X-ray imaging apparatus of the aforementioned "quantitative X-ray dark-field computed tomography" PHYSICS IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 55 (2010) p. 5529-p. 5539 is provided with a phase grating, a detector, and an image processing device. The X-rays from the X-ray source are scattered by a subject, pass through the phase grating, and are emitted to a detector. Based on the interference intensity of the X-rays detected by the detector, a dark-field image is generated by the image processing device. An image is reconstructed using the dark-field image generated at each of the angles when the subject is rotated by 360 degrees.
In the conventional X-ray imaging apparatus as described in the aforementioned M Bech, et al. "Quantitative X-ray dark-field computed tomography" PHYSICS IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 55 (2010) p. 5529-p. 5539, it can be approximated that in cases where the scattering of X-rays is sufficiently small, when the interference intensity of the X-rays is attenuated exponentially with respect to the transmission length of the scatterer. In this case, the reconfiguration can be appropriately performed by a common FBP (Filtered Back Projection).
PRIOR ART DOCUMENT Non-Patent Document
Non-Patent Document 1: M Bech, et al., "Quantitative X-ray dark-field computed tomography" PHYSICS IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 55 (2010) p. 5529-P. 5539
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention
However, in the conventional X-ray imaging apparatus as described in the aforementioned M Bech, et al. "Quantitative X-ray dark-field computed tomography" PHYSICS IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 55 (2010) P. 5529-P. 5539″, when the scattering angle of the X-rays is large, the interference intensity of the X-rays does not change exponentially with respect to the transmission length, and therefore, the reconstruction by an FBP cannot be performed appropriately. That is, artifacts (noises) are generated in the dark-field image (three-dimensional data) reconstructed by the FBP. In this case, there is a disadvantage that the reconstructed image of the subject becomes blurred.
The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of suppressing blurring of a reconstructed image of a subject.
Means for Solving the Problem
In order to achieve the aforementioned object, an X-ray imaging apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes:
an X-ray source;
a detector configured to detect X-rays emitted from the X-ray source;
a plurality of gratings arranged between the X-ray source and the detector, the plurality of gratings including a first grating and a second grating;
a rotation mechanism configured to relatively rotate a subject and an imaging system composed of the X-ray source, the detector, and the plurality of gratings; and
an image processing unit configured to generate a dark-field image due to scattering of the X-rays based on an X-ray intensity distribution detected by the detector at each of a plurality of rotation angles when rotated by the rotation mechanism,
wherein the image processing unit is configured to perform a scattering correction for reducing a value based on X-ray scattering intensity of a pixel in which the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity is larger than a predetermined threshold value among a plurality of pixels in the dark-field image to a predetermined set value.
Note that the "dark-field image" refers to a visibility image obtained by a change in visibility based on small-angle scattering of an object. The dark-field image is also called a small-angle scattered image. The "visibility" refers to sharpness.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention, as described above, it is configured such that the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity of a pixel in which the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity is larger than the predetermined threshold value is reduced to the predetermined set value. Thereby, even in cases where the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity does not change exponentially with respect to the transmission length (of the X-rays) that changes in response to the rotation angle prior to the scattering correction, the change of the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity with respect to the rotation angle (transmission length) can be approximated to the exponential change by reducing the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity to an appropriate value by optimizing the predetermined set value in the scattering correction. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of artifacts (noises) due to the large X-ray scattering angle and to suppress blurring of the reconstructed image of the subject.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus according to the aforementioned one aspect of the present invention, preferably, the image processing unit is configured to set, in the scattering correction, the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity of the pixel in which the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity is larger than the predetermined threshold value to the predetermined threshold value. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress an increase in the work load required for the user to determine the predetermined set value as compared with the case in which the predetermined set value and the predetermined threshold value are set to separate values.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus according to the aforementioned one aspect of the present invention, preferably,
the subject includes a fiber bundle,
the first grating includes a first grating structure part,
the second grating includes a second grating structure part extending along a direction in which the first grating structure part extends, and
the image processing unit is configured to perform the scattering correction on the dark-field image of the subject including the fiber bundle in cases where a direction in which a rotation axis of the rotation mechanism extends and a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are aligned.
Here, generally, in a dark-field image, a fiber bundle extending along the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends appears remarkably. However, in cases where the direction in which the rotation axis of the rotation mechanism extends and the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are aligned, a fiber bundle that extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends appears in addition to a fiber bundle that extends along the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends. This is because, depending on the rotation angle, in some cases, the X-ray transmission length with respect to a fiber bundle extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends is increased (in angle) by rotating the subject by the rotation mechanism. Therefore, the X-ray scattering angle by the fiber bundle extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends becomes large. Therefore, in cases where a direction in which the rotation axis of the rotation mechanism extends and a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are aligned, by performing the scattering correction on the dark-field image of the subject including the fiber bundle, it is possible to more effectively suppress generation of artifacts (noises) due to scattering of X-rays by the fiber bundle extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends. As a result, blurring of the reconstructed image of the subject can be more effectively suppressed.
In this case, preferably, the fiber bundle includes a first fiber bundle extending in a predetermined direction and a second fiber bundle extending in a direction other than the predetermined direction, and the image processing unit is configured to reduce a sum of a value based on X-ray scattering intensity due to the first fiber bundle and a value based on the X-ray scattering intensity due to the second fiber bundle to the predetermined set value by the scattering correction. With this configuration, unlike the case in which the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity due to the first fiber bundle and the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity due to the second fiber bundle are separately reduced by the scattering correction, the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity can be controlled by a single scattering correction. As a result, it is possible to suppress the time required for the scattering correction from becoming longer.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus for reducing the sum of the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity due to the first fiber bundle and the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity due to the second fiber bundle to a predetermined set value, preferably, one of the first fiber bundle and the second fiber bundle is provided so as to extend along a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends, and the other of the first fiber bundle and the second fiber bundle is provided so as to extend along a direction perpendicular to a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends when the first grating and the second grating are viewed from a front. According to this configuration, it is possible to suppress the generation of artifacts (noises) due to the X-ray scattering by one of the first fiber bundle and the second fiber bundle extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends by the scattering correction. As a result, it is possible to suppress blurring of the image of the other of the first fiber bundle and the second fiber bundle extending along the directions in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus in which the scattering correction is performed when the direction in which the rotation axis extends and the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are aligned, preferably, the image processing unit is configured to generate first three-dimensional dark-field data by performing the scattering correction on the dark-field image at each of the plurality of rotation angles and reconstructing the dark-field image at each of the plurality of rotation angles for which the scattering correction has been performed in cases where a direction in which a rotation axis of the rotation mechanism extends and a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are aligned. With this configuration, at each of the plurality of rotation angles, the dark field signal (a value based on the X-ray scattering intensity) can be made close to the change of the exponential attenuation, so that it is possible to suppress blurring of the first three-dimensional dark-field data.
In this case, preferably, the image processing unit is configured to accept a change whether or not the scattering correction is performed, and in cases where a direction in which the rotation axis extends and the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are substantially orthogonal when the first grating and the second grating are viewed from the front, second three-dimensional dark-field data is generated by reconstructing the dark-field image at each of the plurality of rotation angles without performing the scattering correction and a three-dimensional image of the subject is obtained by combining the first three-dimensional dark-field data and the second three-dimensional dark-field data. Here, generally, in a dark-field image, in cases where the direction in which the rotation axis extends and the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are substantially perpendicular to each other when the first grating and the second grating are viewed from the front, the fiber bundle extending along the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends appears remarkably in the dark-field image. This is because, when the subject is rotated by the rotation mechanism, there is the dark-field sensitivity to the fiber bundle at any rotation angle with respect to the fiber bundle extending in the direction (the direction along the rotation axis) perpendicular to the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends and the X-ray transmission length does not change greatly by the rotation angle. This results in fiber bundles in which a fiber bundle displayed prominently in the second three-dimensional dark-field data and a fiber bundle displayed prominently in the first three-dimensional dark-field data differ (extend in different directions) from each other. Therefore, by combining the first three-dimensional dark-field data and the second three-dimensional dark-field data, the user can visually recognize the positional relation between the fiber bundle which is remarkably displayed on the first three-dimensional dark-field data and the fiber bundle which is remarkably appeared on the second three-dimensional dark-field data on a three-dimensional image.
In the X-ray imaging apparatus according to the aforementioned one aspect of the present invention, preferably, the image processing unit is configured to accept a change of the predetermined set value. With this configuration, since the predetermined set value can be changed according to the type of the subject, the scattering correction can be performed more appropriately.
Effects of the Invention
According to the present invention, as described above, it is possible to suppress blurring of the reconstructed image of the subject.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment.
(a) of FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus when a rotation axis and a grating direction are perpendicular to each other. (b) of FIG. 2 is three-dimensional dark-field data in the case of (a) of FIG. 2.
(a) of FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of the X-ray imaging apparatus when the rotation axis and the grating direction are aligned. (b) of FIG. 3 is three-dimensional dark-field data (Comparative Example) of (a) of FIG. 3 (no scattering correction).
(a) to (d) of FIG. 4 are schematic diagrams for explaining arrangement angles of a subject with respect to an optical axis of X-rays and scattering degrees of the X-rays in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.
(a) to (d) of FIG. 5 are schematic diagrams of dark-field images when imaging is performed while rotating a subject with the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a sinogram of a dark-field image generated by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment, wherein (a) of FIG. 6 is a diagram of the case of (a) of FIG. 2, and (b) of FIG. 6 is a diagram of the case of (a) of FIG. 3 (with no scattering correction).
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a relationship between a dark-field signal due to a first fiber bundle and a dark-field signal due to a second fiber bundle by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment, wherein (a) of FIG. 7 is a diagram of the case of (a) of FIG. 2, and (b) of FIG. 7 is a diagram of the case of (a) of FIG. 3 (with no scattering correction).
FIG. 8 is three-dimensional dark-field data generated by performing a scattering correction and reconstruction on the dark-field image generated by the X-ray imaging apparatus of (a) of FIG. 3.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional image of three-dimensional dark-field data by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment, wherein (a) of FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional image Comparative Example of (b) of FIG. 3, and (b) of FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional image of FIG. 8.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional image of three-dimensional dark-field data (generated using a subject other than that of FIG. 9) by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to an embodiment, wherein (a) of FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional image (Comparative Example) of (b) of FIG. 3, and (b) of FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional image of FIG. 8.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional image of three-dimensional dark-field data (along a direction different from that of FIG. 10) by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment, wherein (a) of FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional image (Comparative Example) of (b) of FIG. 3, and (b) of FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional image of FIG. 8.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing three-dimensional dark-field data by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment, wherein (a) of FIG. 12 is three-dimensional dark-field data (Comparative Example) shown in (b) of FIG. 3, and (b) of FIG. 12 is a three-dimensional dark-field data shown in FIG. 8.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a three-dimensional image obtained by combining three-dimensional dark-field data shown in FIG. 8 and three-dimensional dark-field data shown in (b) of FIG. 2 by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an imaging method by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.
EMBODIMENTS FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments in which the present invention is embodied will be described with reference to the attached drawings.
[This Embodiment]
With reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 14, the configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described.
(Configuration of X-ray Imaging Apparatus)
As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is an apparatus for imaging an inside of a subject T using diffusion (scattering) of X-rays that have passed through the subject T. The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is an apparatus for imaging an inside of a subject T using a Talbot effect. For example, in a non-destructive testing application, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 can be used for imaging an inside of an object.
The subject T includes a fiber bundle 10 (see FIG. 2) therein. The subject T is, for example, a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in which carbon fibers are used as a fiber bundle 10 and a resin 11 (see FIG. 2) is used as the base material. The fiber bundle is a bundle of a plurality of fibers. In this embodiment, the fiber bundle 10 is formed in a plate shape by a large number of fibers.
FIG. 1 is a view of the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 as viewed in the X-direction. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is provided with an X-ray source 1, a first grating 2, a second grating 3, a third grating 4, a detector 5, an image processing unit 6, a control unit 7, a rotation mechanism 8, and a grating moving mechanism 9. In this specification, the direction from the X-ray source 1 to the first grating 2 is referred to as a Z2-direction, and the opposite direction is referred to as a Z1-direction. The left-right direction in a plane orthogonal to the Z-direction is defined as an X-direction, the direction toward the back side of the paper is defined as an X2-direction, and the direction toward the front side of the paper is defined as an X1-direction. The up-down direction in a plane orthogonal to the Z-direction is defined as a Y-direction, the upward direction is defined as a Yl-direction, and the downward direction is defined as a Y2-direction.
The X-ray source 1 is configured to generate X-rays by applying a high voltage, and to emit the generated X-rays in the Z2-direction.
The first grating 2 has a plurality of slits 2a arranged in the Y-direction at a predetermined period (pitch) dl and X-ray phase-change parts 2b. Each slit 2a and each X-ray phase-change part 2b are formed so as to extend linearly. Each slit 2a and each X-ray phase-change part 2b are formed so as to extend in parallel with each other. The first grating 2 is a so-called phase grating. Note that the X-ray phase-change part 2b is an example of the "first grating structure part" recited in claims.
The first grating 2 is arranged between the X-ray source 1 and the second grating 3, and is irradiated with X-rays from the X-ray source 1. The first grating 2 is provided to form a self-image (not shown) of the first grating 2 by a Talbot effect. Note that when X-rays having a coherence pass through a grating in which slits are formed, an image (self-image) of the grating is formed at a predetermined distance (a Talbot distance) from the grating. This is called a Talbot effect.
The second grating 3 has a plurality of X-ray transmission part 3a and X-ray absorption parts 3b arranged at a predetermined period (pitch) d2 in the Y-direction. The X-ray absorption parts 3b extend along the direction along which the X-ray phase-change parts 2b extend. Each X-ray transmission part 3a and each X-ray absorption part 3b are formed so as to extend linearly. Each X-ray transmission part 3a and each X-ray absorption part 3b are formed so as to extend in parallel with each other. The second grating 3 is a so-called absorbing grating. The first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are gratings with distinct roles, but the slit 2a and the X-ray transmission part 3a each allow X-rays to pass through. Further, the X-ray absorption part 3b functions to shield the X-rays, and the X-ray phase-change part 2b changes the phase of the X-rays according to the difference in the refractive index between the slit 2a and the X-ray phase-change part. Note that the X-ray absorption part 3b is an example of the "second grating structure part" recited in claims.
The second grating 3 is arranged between the first grating 2 and the detector 5, and is irradiated with X-rays that have passed through the first grating 2. The second grating 3 is arranged at a position apart from the first grating 2 by the Talbot distance. The second grating 3 interferes with the self-image of the first grating 2 to form a moire fringe (not shown) on the sensing surface of the detector 5.
The third grating 4 has a plurality of X-ray transmission parts 4a and X-ray absorption parts 4b arranged in the Y-direction at a predetermined period (pitch) d3. Each X-ray transmission part 4a and each X-ray absorption part 4b are formed so as to extend linearly. Each X-ray transmission part 4a and each X-ray absorption part 4b are formed so as to extend in parallel with each other. The third grating 4 is a so-called multi slit.
The third grating 4 is arranged between the X-ray source 1 and the first grating 2. The third grating 4 is configured to convert the X-rays from the X-ray source 1 into a multipoint light source by using the X-rays that have passed through the respective X-ray transmission parts 4a as a line light source. When the pitches of the three sheets of gratings (the first grating 2, the second grating 3, and the third grating 4) and the distance between gratings satisfy a certain condition, the coherence of the X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 1 can be enhanced. As a result, even if the focal size of the X-ray source 1 of the X-ray tube is large, the interference intensity can be maintained.
The detector 5 is configured to detect X-rays, convert the detected X-rays into an electrical signal, and read the converted electrical signal as an image signal. The detector 5 is, for example, an FPD (Flat Panel Detector). The detector 5 is composed of a plurality of conversion elements (not shown) and pixel electrodes (not shown) arranged on the plurality of conversion elements. The plurality of converting elements and the plurality of pixel electrodes are arranged in an array in the X-direction and the Y-direction at a predetermined period (pixel pitch). The detector 5 is configured to output the acquired image signal to the image processing unit 6.
The image processing unit 6 is configured to generate an absorption image (not shown) based on the image signals output from the detector 5. The image processing unit 6 is configured to generate a dark-field image (see FIG. 5) based on the intensity distribution of the X-rays detected by the detector 5. Here, the absorption image is an image obtained by imaging the contrast generated by the difference in the X-ray absorption by the subject T. The dark-field image is an image obtained by imaging the contrast generated by the refraction of the X-rays by the microstructure inside the subject T. The image processing unit 6 generates a three-dimensional absorption image (not shown) and a three-dimensional dark-field image (see (b) of FIG. 2, etc.) by reconstructing a plurality of absorption images and a plurality of dark-field images captured (at each of a plurality of rotation angles) while rotating the rotation mechanism 8. The image processing unit 6 includes a processor, such as, e.g., a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) configured for image processing.
The control unit 7 is configured to relatively rotate the subject T and an imaging system 200 composed of the X-ray source 1, the detector 5, and the plurality of gratings (the first grating 2, the second grating 3, and the third grating 4) via a rotation mechanism 8. The control unit 7 is configured to move the first grating 2 stepwise in a grating plane in a direction perpendicular to the grating direction through the grating moving mechanism 9. In the X-ray imaging apparatus 100, a technique (fringe scanning method) of acquiring a reconstructed image from a plurality of moire fringes (images) obtained by scanning a first grating 2 at regular intervals is used. The control unit 7 includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Note that the grating direction is an example of the "direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends" recited in claims.
The rotation mechanism 8 is configured to relatively rotate the subject T and the imaging system 200 based on the signal from the control unit 7. Specifically, the rotation mechanism 8 is configured to rotate the subject T relative to the imaging system 200 by rotating the subject T about the axis AR. Although FIG. 1 illustrates a state in which the direction in which the axis AR extends (the Y-direction in FIG. 1) and the grating direction of the plurality of gratings (the X-direction in FIG. 1) are perpendicular to each other, the grating direction of the plurality of gratings can be changed in a predetermined direction (e.g., the Y-direction). Note that the grating direction is a direction in which the grating pattern of the gratings extends. The grating pattern refers to the slit 2a, the X-ray phase-change part 2b, the X-ray transmission part 3a, the X-ray absorption part 3b, and the like of the respective gratings. The rotation mechanism 8 includes, for example, a rotary stage driven by a motor and the like. Note that the axis AR is an example of the "rotation axis" recited in claims.
The grating moving mechanism 9 is configured to move the first grating 2 stepwise in a direction (the Y-direction in FIG. 1) perpendicular to the grating direction in the grating plane (the X-Y plane) based on the signal from the control unit 7. Specifically, the grating moving mechanism 9 divides the period dl of the first grating 2 by n, and moves the first grating 2 stepwise by dl/n. The grating moving mechanism 9 is configured to move the first grating 2 stepwise by at least one period dl of the first grating 2. Note that "n" is a positive integer, for example, 9. The grating moving mechanism 9 includes, for example, a stepping motor and a piezoelectric actuator.
As shown in (a) of FIG. 2, the fiber bundle 10 includes a fiber bundle 10 extending in a plurality of different directions within the subject T. In the example shown in (a) of FIG. 2, the subject T has a structure in which a fiber bundle 10a extending in a direction (the Y-direction) perpendicular to the grating direction when the first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are viewed from the front (as viewed in the Z-direction) and a fiber bundle 10b extending in the grating direction (the X-direction) are knitted. In the example shown in (a) of FIG. 2, although the fiber bundle 10a and the fiber bundle 10b are shown separately, they are actually carbon fibers of the same type woven (or knitted) into a sheet. Note that the X-direction and the Y-direction are examples of the "direction different from a predetermined direction" and the "predetermined direction" recited in claims, respectively. Also note that the fiber bundle 10a and the fiber bundle 10b are examples of the "first fiber bundle" and the "second fiber bundle" recited in claims, respectively.
In some cases, a crack 12 is formed in the resin 11 of the subject T. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the crack 12 extends in the Y-direction. Note that the crack 12 is an air layer, etc., formed in the resin 11.
In the case shown in FIG. 2, the direction (the Y-direction in (a) of FIG. 2) in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction (the X-direction in (a) of FIG. 2) are perpendicular to each other. In this case, an image of a fiber bundle (fiber bundle 10b in (a) of FIG. 2) extending in the grating direction among the fiber bundle 10 appears in the dark-field image. By reconstructing dark-field images (see the dark-field images 20a to 20d in FIG. 5) at the plurality of rotation angles generated in this case, 3D data 20 (see (b) of FIG. 2) in which the three-dimensional image of the fiber bundle 10b is clearly displayed is generated. Note that the 3D data 20 is an example of the "second three-dimensional dark-field image" recited in claims.
In Comparative Example shown in FIG. 3, the direction in which the axis AR extends (the Y-direction in (a) of FIG. 3) and the grating direction (the Y-direction in (a) of FIG. 3) are aligned. In this case, in addition to the images of the fiber bundle (fiber bundle 10a in (a) of FIG. 3) extending in the grating direction among the fiber bundle 10 and the crack 12, the fiber bundle (the fiber bundle 10b in (a) of FIG. 3) extending in a direction (the X-direction) perpendicular to the grating direction appears in the dark-field image. By reconstructing the dark-field images (see the dark-field images 21b to 21d in FIG. 5) at the plurality of rotation angles generated in this case, 3D data 21 (see (b) of FIG. 3) in which the three-dimensional image of the fiber bundle 10b appears is generated in addition to the three-dimensional image of the fiber bundle 10a and the crack 12.
Here, referring to FIG. 4, the reason why the fiber bundle (the fiber bundle 10b in (a) of FIG. 3) extending in a direction (the X-direction) perpendicular to the grating direction appears in the dark-field image (see the dark-field images 21b to 21d in FIG. 5) when the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned (see (a) of FIG. 3).
(a) of FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example in which the fiber bundle 10b of the subject T is arranged perpendicular to the optical axis of the X-rays in the X-Z plane. (b) of FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 400-400 in (a) of FIG. 4. (c) of FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example in which the fiber bundle 10b of the subject T is inclined with respect to the optical axis of the X-rays in the X-Z plane. (d) of FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 500-500 in (c) of FIG. 4.
Here, when the X-rays enter the fiber bundle 10 extending in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the X-rays, the X-rays are scattered (diffused) by the fiber bundle 10. Specifically, at the interface between the fibers and the resin 11 in the subject T (see FIG. 2), the X-rays are refracted by the difference in the refractive factor between the fiber and the resin 11. Since the fiber bundle 10 is laminated in the subject T and the fiber bundle 10 is composed of a large number of fibers, when the X-rays pass through a large number of fibers, multiple refractions occur. Thus, the X-rays are scattered (diffused).
In the example shown in (a) of FIG. 4, the fiber bundle 10b is arranged perpendicular to the optical axis of the X-rays. That is, the fiber bundle 10b is arranged to extend in the X-direction. Therefore, as shown in (b) of FIG. 4, the cross-section of the fiber is substantially circular. In the example shown in (c) of FIG. 4, the fiber bundle 10b is arranged obliquely with respect to the optical axis of the X-rays. Therefore, as shown in (d) of FIG. 4, the cross-section of the fiber is elliptical. When the cross-section of the fiber is elliptical, the distance that the X-rays pass through the interface between the fiber and the resin 11 is longer as compared with the case in which the cross-section of the fiber is substantially circular. In addition, the interface between the fiber and the resin 11 has a rough shape (minute irregularities), and the scattering (diffusion) of the X-rays increases as the distance that the X-rays pass through the interface between the fiber and the resin 11 increases.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagrams (a) to (d) showing dark-field images 20a to 20d when the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are perpendicular to each other (see FIG. 2) and dark-field images 21a to 21d when the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned (see FIG. 3) at certain angles (first angle θ1, second angle θ2, third angle θ3, and fourth angle θ4) when imaging is performed while rotating the subject T in the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment.
When the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are perpendicular to each other, the fiber bundle 10b appears clearly in the dark-field image (the dark-field image 20a) at the first angle θ1 (see (a) of FIG. 5). Also, in the dark-field image (the dark-field images 20b to 20d) with a relatively large angle (see (b) to (d) of FIG. 5), as the angle increases, the scatterin (diffusion) (see FIG. 4) of the X-rays by the fiber bundle 10b increases. As a result, the dark-field signal (see the solid line in (a) of FIG. 7) of the bundle 10b becomes large. In this case, since the scattering (diffusion) of the X-rays by the fiber bundle 10a does not change greatly even when the angle becomes large, the dark-field signal (see the broken line in (a) of FIG. 7) of the fiber bundle 10a (and the crack 12) does not become large. Here, the dark-field signal is a value obtained by f(1/V) when a pixel value of a predetermined pixel in a dark-field image is V. The function f(x) is a function whose value increases as the value of the argument x increases. Therefore, when the X-ray scattering intensity is large and the pixel value (brightness) of the dark-field image is small (that is, when V is large), the dark-field signal is large. Note that the dark-field signal is an example of the "value based on the X-ray scattering intensity" recited in claims.
On the other hand, when the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned, in the dark-field image (the dark-field image 21a) at the first angle θ1 having a relatively small angle, the dark-field signal (see the solid line in (b) of FIG. 7) of the fiber bundle 10b is relatively small and the fiber bundle 10a (and the crack 12) appears clearly. However, as the angle increases, the scattering (diffusion) of the X-rays by the fiber bundle 10b increases, so that the dark-field signal (see the solid line in (b) of FIG. 7) of the fiber bundle 10b increases with respect to the dark-field signal (see the broken line in (b) of FIG. 7) of the fiber bundle 10a. For this reason, the image of the fiber bundle 10b appears remarkably in the dark-field images 21b to 21d. Therefore, it becomes difficult to grasp the detailed structure of the fiber bundle 10a (and the crack 12).
FIG. 6 is a sinogram captured while rotating the subject T by 360 degrees in the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment. The sinogram of FIG. 6 shows outputs of the detector 5 at each of a plurality of rotation angles. As shown in each of the sinogram (see (a) of FIG. 6) in the case where the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are perpendicular to each other, and the sinogram (see (b) of FIG. 6) in the case where the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned with each other, it can be seen that scattering (diffusion) of the X-rays by the fiber bundle 10b is increased at predetermined rotation angles (see hatched portions in (a) of FIG. 6 and (b) of FIG. 6). That is, the shaded portions of (a) of FIG. 6 and (b) of FIG. 6 correspond to rotation angles (see solid lines in (a) and (b) of FIG. 7) relatively large in the dark-field signal.
Here, in this embodiment, the image processing unit 6 (see FIG. 1) is configured to perform a scattering correction for reducing the dark-field signal of a pixel in which the dark-field signal is larger than a threshold value V1 (see (b) of FIG. 7) among the plurality of pixels in the dark-field image to a set value V2. In this embodiment, the set value V2 is equal to the threshold value V1. Note that the threshold value V1 and the set value V2 are examples of the "predetermined threshold value" and the "predetermined set value" recited in claims, respectively.
Specifically, the image processing unit 6 performs a scattering correction on each of a plurality of pixels included in the dark-field image. Specifically, the image processing unit 6 reduces the dark-field signal of the pixel whose dark-field signal is larger than the threshold value V1 among a plurality of pieces of pixels included in the dark-field image to the set value V2 (threshold value V1) by the scattering correction. In addition, the image processing unit 6 does not perform a scattering correction on a pixel whose dark-field signal is equal to or less than the threshold value V1 among a plurality of pieces of pixels included in the dark-field image, and does not change the dark-field signal.
Further, in this embodiment, the image processing unit 6 is configured to perform a scattering correction on the dark-field image of the subject T including the fiber bundle 10 when the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned (see (a) of FIG. 3). Specifically, the image processing unit 6 performs a scattering correction on dark-field images (see dark-field images 21a to 21d in FIG. 5) at each of the plurality of rotation angles when the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned.
Then, as shown in FIG. 8, the image processing unit 6 generates 3D data 22 by reconstructing the dark-field image at each of the plurality of rotation angles on which the scattering correction has been performed. Note that the 3D data 22 is an example of the "first three-dimensional dark-field image" recited in claims.
The image processing unit 6 is configured such that a change of whether or not a scattering correction is performed can be accepted. In this embodiment, the image processing unit 6 is configured such that the scattering correction is not performed when the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are perpendicular to each other (see (a) of FIG. 2).
In this embodiment, the image processing unit 6 is configured to reduce the sum of the dark-field signal (see the solid line in (b) of FIG. 7) due to the fiber bundle 10a and the dark-field signal (see the broken line in (b) of FIG. 7) due to the fiber bundle 10b to the set value V2 (the threshold value V1) by the scattering correction. Note that the set value V2 (threshold value V1) is a value that has been preset by a user.
In this embodiment, the image processing unit 6 is configured to accept a change in the set value V2. Specifically, when the user instructs to change the set value V2 on an operating unit (not shown), the set value V2 of the image processing unit 6 is changed by the control unit 7 (see FIG. 1) based on the user's instruction.
(a) of FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional image (Comparative Example) along a predetermined direction of the 3D data 21 (see (b) of FIG. 3) when no scattering correction is performed in cases where the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned (see (a) of FIG. 3). (b) of FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional image along a predetermined direction of the 3D data 22 (see FIG. 8) when a scattering correction is performed in the cases where the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned (see (a) of FIG. 3). In Comparative Example shown in (a) of FIG. 9, the image (hatched portions) of the fiber bundle 10b appears remarkably in the cross-sectional image, and the image of the fiber bundle 10a (and the crack 12) does not appear. On the other hand, in the example shown in (b) FIG. 9, the image of the fiber bundle 10b appearing in (a) of FIG. 9 does not appear, and the image (hatched portion) of the fiber bundle 10a appears remarkably. In the example shown in (b) of FIG. 9, no image of the crack 12 appears.
In the examples shown in FIG. 10, an image of the subject T of a type different from that in FIG. 9 are shown. (a) of FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional image (Comparative
Example) taken along the 3D data 21 (see (b) of FIG. 3 and (a) of FIG. 12) when no scattering correction is performed in cases where the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned (see (a) of FIG. 3). (b) of FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional image taken along a predetermined direction of the 3D data 22 (see FIG. 8 and (b) of FIG. 12) when a scattering correction is performed in the cases where the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are aligned (see (a) of FIG. 3). In Comparative Example shown in (a) FIG. 10, the image of the crack 12 (streaky portion) appears in the cross-sectional image, but similarly to (a) of FIG. 9, the image of the fiber bundle 10b (hatched portion) appears remarkably, and the image of the crack 12 becomes difficult to visually recognize. On the other hand, in the example shown in (b) of FIG. 10, the image of the fiber bundle 10b appeared in (a) of FIG. 10 does not appear, and the image of the crack 12 (hatched portion) appears remarkably. In the example shown in (b) of FIG. 10, the image of the fiber bundle 10a does not appear remarkably.
FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional image taken along a direction different from that of FIG. 10. In Comparative Example shown in (a) of FIG. 11, in the cross-sectional image, artifacts (noises) (radial lines extending outward from the subject T) due to scattering of the X-rays by the fiber bundle 10b remarkably appear. Further, in (b) of FIG. 11, generation of artifacts (noises) due to the scattering of the X-rays by the fiber bundle 10b is suppressed as compared with Comparative Example of (a) of FIG. 11.
FIG. 12 shows 3D data of the subject T of FIG. 10 and FIG. 11. As shown in (a) of FIG. 12, in the 3D data 21 in which no scattering correction is performed, the three-dimensional image of the fiber bundle 10b appears remarkably. As shown in (b) of FIG. 12, in the 3D data 22 in which a scattering correction is performed, the three-dimensional image of the crack 12 (and the fiber bundle 10a) appears remarkably.
Here, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the image processing unit 6 is configured to generate the 3D data 20 (see (b) of FIG. 2) by reconstructing the dark-field images (see the dark-field images 20a to 20d in FIG. 5) at each of the plurality of rotation angles without performing a scattering correction in cases where the axis AR extends and the grating direction are substantially perpendicular to each other (see (a) of FIG. 2) when the first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are viewed from the front (viewed in the Z-direction). The image processing unit 6 is configured to combine the 3D data 22 and the 3D data 20 to obtain the three-dimensional image 23 of the subject T. That is, the image processing unit 6 is configured to synthesize the 3D data 22 and the 3D data 20 to obtain (generate) one three-dimensional image 23.
(Imaging of Subject)
Next, with reference to FIG. 14, the flow of the process of capturing an image of a subject T by the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described.
In Step S1, the grating direction and the direction in which the axis AR extends are aligned. In this case, the fiber bundle 10a is provided so as to extend along the grating direction, and the fiber bundle 10b is provided so as to extend along a direction perpendicular to the grating direction when the first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are viewed from the front.
Next, in Step S2, the subject T is rotated by a predetermined angle (e.g., one degree) by the control unit 7 through the rotation mechanism 8.
Next, in Step S3, the subject T is imaged while moving the first grating 2 stepwise through the grating moving mechanism 9 by the control unit 7. Next, in Step S4, the dark-field image of the subject T is generated by the image processing unit 6.
Next, in Step S5, a scattering correction is performed by the image processing unit 6 on the dark-field image generated in Step S4.
Next, in Step S6, the control unit 7 determines whether or not the rotation mechanism 8 has rotated the subject T by 360 degrees. If the subject T has not been rotated by 360 degrees, the process returns to Step S2. If the subject T has been rotated by 360 degrees, the process proceeds to Step S7.
In Step S7, the dark-field image captured at each rotation angle is reconstructed by the image processing unit 6, and the three-dimensional data (3D data 22 (see FIG. 8)) of the subject T is generated. In this case, the image processing unit 6 may perform a correcting process including at least a smoothing process on the generated 3D data 22. The smoothing process includes, for example, smoothing by filtering with a Gaussian filter or the like.
Next, in Step S8, the plurality of gratings is rotated so that the grating direction and the direction in which the axis AR extends are perpendicular to each other. In this case, the fiber bundle 10b is provided so as to extend along the grating direction, and the fiber bundle 10a is provided so as to extend along the direction perpendicular to the grating direction when the first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are viewed from the front.
Next, in Step S10, the subject T is imaged while moving the first grating 2 stepwise through the grating moving mechanism 9 by the control unit 7. Next, in Step S11, the dark-field image of the subject T is generated by the image processing unit 6.
Next, in Step S12, the control unit 7 determines whether or not the rotation mechanism 8 has rotated the subject T by 360 degrees. If the subject T has not been rotated by 360 degrees, the process returns to Step S9. If the subject T has been rotated by 360 degrees, the process proceeds to Step S13.
In Step S13, the image processing unit 6 reconstructs the dark-field images (see the dark-field images 20a to 20d in FIG. 5) captured at the respective rotation angles, and generates the three-dimensional data (3D data 20) (see (b) of FIG. 2) of the subject T. In this case, the image processing unit 6 may perform a correcting process including a smoothing process on the generated 3D data 20.
In Step S14, the image processing unit 6 combines (synthesizes) the 3D data 22 generated in Step S7 with the 3D data 20 generated in Step 13 to obtain the three-dimensional image 23 of the subject T.
In Step S15, a predetermined characteristic quantity is extracted from the three-dimensional image 23 acquired in Step S14 by the image processing unit 6. Features extracted in this case include the height of the weave of the fiber bundle 10, the size of the gap between adjacent fiber bundles 10, the width of the fiber bundle 10, the length of the fiber bundle 10, the curvature of the fiber bundle 10, the thickness of the fiber bundle 10, the length of the crack 12, the depth of the crack 12, the number of the cracks 12, and the curvature of the crack 12. Further, the regularity of the knitting of the fiber bundle 10 may be extracted as the characteristic quantity.
(Effects of Embodiment)
In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
In this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured such that the image processing unit 6 performs a scattering correction for reducing the dark-field signal of the pixel whose dark-filed signal is larger than the threshold value V1 among the plurality of pixels in the dark-field image to the set value V2 (threshold value V1). Thus, even if the dark-field signal does not change exponentially with respect to the transmission length (of the X-rays) that changes in response to the rotation angle prior to the scattering correction, the change with respect to the rotation angle (transmission length) of the dark-field signal can be approximated to the exponential change by appropriating the set value V2 in the scattering correction to reduce the dark-field signal to an appropriate value. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of artifacts (noises) due to the large X-ray scattering angle, and to suppress blurring of the reconstructed image of the subject T.
In this embodiment, as described above, the image processing unit 6 configures the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 so that the dark-field signal of the pixel whose dark-field signal is larger than the threshold value V1 in the scattering correction is set to the threshold value V1. As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the work load required for the user to determine the set value V2 as compared with a case in which the set value V2 and the threshold value V1 are set to separate values.
Further, in this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured such that the image processing unit 6 performs a scattering correction on the dark-field image of the subject T including the fiber bundle 10 in cases where the direction in which the axis AR of the rotation mechanism 8 extends and the grating direction are aligned. Here, generally, in a dark-field image, the fiber bundle 10 extending along the grating direction appears remarkably. However, in cases where the direction in which the axis AR of the rotation mechanism 8 extends and the grating direction are aligned, in addition to the fiber bundle 10 extending along the grating direction, the fiber bundle 10 extending in a direction perpendicular to the grating direction appears. This is because, depending on the rotation angle, the transmission length of the X-rays with respect to the fiber bundle 10 extending in a direction perpendicular to the grating direction becomes longer (angles) based on the subject T being rotated by the rotation mechanism 8. Therefore, the X-ray scattering angle by the fiber bundle 10 extending in a direction perpendicular to the grating direction becomes large. Therefore, in cases where the direction in which the axis AR of the rotation mechanism 8 extends and the grating direction are aligned, by performing a scattering correction on the dark-field image of the subject T including the fiber bundle 10, it is possible to more effectively suppress the generation of artifacts (noises) due to the scattering of the X-rays by the fiber bundle 10 extending in the direction perpendicular to the grating direction. As a result, blurring of the reconstructed image of the subject T can be more effectively suppressed.
In this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured such that the image processing unit 6 reduces the sum of the dark-field signal due to the fiber bundle 10a and the dark-field signal due to the fiber bundle 10b to the set value V2 (threshold value V1) by a scattering correction. This makes it possible to control the dark-field signal by a single scattering correction, unlike when the dark-field signal due to the fiber bundle 10a and the dark-field signal due to the fiber bundle 10b are separately reduced by a scattering correction. As a result, it is possible to suppress the time required for the scattering correction from becoming longer.
Further, in this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured such that one of the fiber bundle 10a and the fiber bundle 10b is provided so as to extend along the grating direction, and the other of the fiber bundle 10a and the fiber bundle 10b is provided so as to extend along a direction perpendicular to the grating direction when the first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are viewed from the front. As a result, it is possible to suppress generation of artifacts (noises) due to the scattering of X-rays by one of the fiber bundle 10a and the fiber bundle 10b extending in the direction perpendicular to the grating direction by the scattering correction. As a result, it is possible to suppress blurring of the other image of the fiber bundle 10a and the fiber bundle 10b extending along the grating direction.
Further, in this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured such that the image processing unit 6 generates the 3D data 22 by performing the scattering correction on the dark-field images at each of the plurality of rotation angles and reconstructing the dark-field images at each of the plurality of rotation angles on which the scattering correction has been performed when the direction in which the axis AR of the rotation mechanism 8 extends and the grating direction are aligned. As a result, at each of the plurality of rotation angles, the dark-field signal can be made close to the change of the exponential attenuation, so that it is possible to suppress blurring of the 3D data 22.
Further, in this embodiment, as described above, in cases where the direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are substantially perpendicular to each other when the first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are viewed from the front, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured to generate the 3D data 20 by reconstructing without performing the scattering correction on the dark-field image at each of the plurality of rotation angles and acquire the three-dimensional image 23 of the subject T by combining the 3D data 22 and the 3D data 20. Here, generally, in a dark-field image, in cases where a direction in which the axis AR extends and the grating direction are substantially perpendicular to each other when the first grating 2 and the second grating 3 are viewed from the front, the fiber bundle 10 extending along the grating direction appears remarkably in the dark-field image. This is because, when the subject T is rotated by the rotation mechanism 8, the transmission length of the X-ray does not change greatly by the rotation angle because there is dark field sensitivity to the fiber bundle 10 at any rotation angle with respect to the fiber bundle 10 extending in the direction perpendicular to the grating direction (direction along the axis AR). This results in the fiber bundle 10 in which the fiber bundle 10 displayed prominently in the 3D data 20 and the fiber bundle 10 displayed prominently in the 3D data 22 differ from each other. Therefore, by combining the 3D data 20 and the 3D data 22, the user can visually recognize the positional relation between the fiber bundle 10 which is remarkably displayed on the 3D data 20 and the fiber bundle 10 which is remarkably displayed on the 3D data 22 in the three-dimensional image 23.
Further, in this embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured so that the image processing unit 6 can accept the change of the set value V2. As a result, the set value V2 can be changed according to the type of the subject T, so that the scattering correction can be performed more appropriately.
(Modifications)
It should be noted that the embodiment disclosed herein is to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing embodiment descriptions, and includes all modifications (changes) within the meanings and the ranges equivalent to the scope of the claims.
For example, in the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the scattering correction is performed based on the size of the dark-field signal of the dark-field image, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the scattering correction may be performed based on the pixel value of the dark-field image. Here, when the X-ray scattering is large, the pixel value (brightness) of the dark-field image becomes small. Thus, when performing the scattering correction based on the pixel value, the image processing unit 6 is configured to perform the scattering correction when the pixel value is less than a predetermined threshold value. Here, the pixel value is the "value based on the of X-ray scattering intensity" recited in claims.
In the aforementioned embodiment, although an example is shown in which the predetermined set value (the set value V2) and the predetermined threshold value (the threshold value V1) are equal to each other, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the predetermined set value (the set value V2) and the predetermined threshold value (the threshold value V1) may be different from each other. In this case, the image processing unit 6 may be configured to estimate an optimal value as the predetermined set value (the set value V2) based on the generated dark-field image.
In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the scattering correction is performed when the direction in which the rotation axis (the axis AR) of the rotation mechanism 8 extends and the direction (grating direction) in which each of the first grating structure part (the X-ray phase-change part 2b) and the second grating structure part (the X-ray absorption part 3b) extends are the same, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the scattering correction may be performed when the direction in which the rotation axis (the axis AR) of rotation mechanism 8 extends and the direction (grating direction) in which each of the first grating structure part (the X-ray phase-change part 2b) and the second grating structure part (the X-ray absorption part 3b) extends are offset by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees).
In the aforementioned embodiment, although an example is shown in which the first fiber bundle (the fiber bundle 10a) and the second fiber bundle (the fiber bundle 10b) are substantially perpendicular to each other, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first fiber bundle (the fiber bundle 10a) and the second fiber bundle (the fiber bundle 10b) may cross each other without being crossed perpendicularly.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the scattering correction is not performed in generating the second three-dimensional dark-field data (3D data 20), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the scattering correction may be performed in generating the second three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 20).
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the second three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 20) is generated after the first three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 22) is generated, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 22) may be generated after the second three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 20) is generated.
In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the image processing unit 6 combines (synthesizes) the first three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 22) and the second three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 20), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in addition to the first three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 22) and the second three-dimensional dark-field data (the 3D data 20), the three-dimensional dark-field data may be combined when the direction in which the rotation axis (the axis AR) extends and the direction in which the first grating structure part (the X-ray phase-change part 2b) and the second grating structure part (the X-ray absorption part 3b) extend (the grating direction) do not intersect at a right angle.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the third grating 4 is provided, but the present invention is not limited to this. No third grating 4 may be provided.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the dark-field image is generated by the fringe scan method, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the dark-field image may be generated by a method in which either the first grating 2, the second grating 3, or the third grating 4 is rotated in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the X-rays, that is, a so-called moire one-shot method.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the first grating 2 is a phase grating, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first grating 2 may be an absorption grating.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the rotation mechanism 8 rotates the subject T relative to the imaging system by rotating the subject T, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured to rotate the subject T relative to the imaging system by the rotating imaging system.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the grating direction of the plurality of gratings and the direction of the subject T are relatively changed by rotating the plurality of gratings, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the grating direction of the plurality of gratings and the direction of the subject T may be relatively changed by rotating the subject T.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which the first grating 2 is moved stepwise in a grating plane, but the present invention is not limited to this. Any grating of the plurality of gratings may be moved stepwise.
In the aforementioned embodiment, an example is shown in which an image of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP) is captured as the subject T, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a fiberglass reinforced plastic (GFRP) or the like may be used as the subject T. Any subject may be used as long as a fiber bundle is included in a subject to be imaged.
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS
1: X-ray source
2: first grating
2b: X-ray phase-change part (first grating structure part)
3: second grating
3b: X-ray absorption part (second grating structure part)
5: detector
6: image processing unit
8: rotation mechanism
10; fiber bundle
10a: fiber bundle (first fiber bundle)
10b: fiber bundle (second fiber bundle)
20: 3D data (second three-dimensional dark-field data)
20a, 20b, 20c, 20d; dark-field image (dark-filed image when the direction in which the rotation axis extends and the direction in which the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extend are substantially orthogonal)
21a, 21b, 21c, 21d: dark-field image (dark-filed image when the direction in which the rotation axis extends and the direction in which the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extend are aligned)
22: 3D data (first three-dimensional dark-field data)
23: three-dimensional image
100: X-ray imaging apparatus
200: imaging system
AR: axis (rotation axis)
T: subject
V1: threshold value (predetermined threshold value)
V2: set value (predetermined set value)
1. An X-ray imaging apparatus comprising:
a rotation mechanism configured to relatively rotate a subject and an imaging system relatively to each other, the imaging system including the X-ray source, the detector, and the plurality of gratings; and
an image processing unit configured to generate a dark-field image as a result of X-ray scattering based on an intensity distribution of the X-rays detected by the detector at each of a plurality of relative rotation angles of the subject and the imaging system resulting from the relative rotation generated by the rotation mechanism,
wherein the image processing unit is configured to perform a scattering correction on one or more targeted pixels included in the dark-field image, the targeted pixels having values related to X-ray scattering intensity, the scattering correction being such that the values of the targeted pixels are reduced to a predetermined set value.
2. The X-ray imaging apparatus as recited in claim 1,
wherein the image processing unit is configured to set, in the scattering correction, the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity of the pixel in which the value based on the X-ray scattering intensity is larger than the predetermined threshold value to the predetermined threshold value.
wherein the subject includes a fiber bundle,
wherein the first grating includes a first grating structure part,
wherein the second grating includes a second grating structure part extending along a direction in which the first grating structure part extends, and
wherein the image processing unit is configured to perform the scattering correction on the dark-field image of the subject including the fiber bundle in cases where a direction in which a rotation axis of the rotation mechanism extends and a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are aligned.
wherein the fiber bundle includes a first fiber bundle extending in a predetermined direction and a second fiber bundle extending in a direction different from the predetermined direction, and
wherein the image processing unit is configured to reduce a sum of a value based on X-ray scattering intensity due to the first fiber bundle and a value based on the X-ray scattering intensity due to the second fiber bundle to the predetermined set value by the scattering correction.
wherein one of the first fiber bundle and the second fiber bundle is provided so as to extend along a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends, and
wherein the other of the first fiber bundle and the second fiber bundle is provided so as to extend along a direction perpendicular to a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends when the first grating and the second grating are viewed from a front.
wherein the image processing unit is configured to generate first three-dimensional dark-field data by performing the scattering correction on the dark-field image at each of the plurality of relative rotation angles and reconstructing the dark-field image at each of the plurality of relative rotation angles for which the scattering correction has been performed in cases where a direction in which a rotation axis of the rotation mechanism extends and a direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are aligned.
wherein the image processing unit is configured to accept a change whether or not the scattering correction is performed, and in cases where a direction in which the rotation axis extends and the direction in which each of the first grating structure part and the second grating structure part extends are substantially orthogonal when the first grating and the second grating are viewed from the front, second three-dimensional dark-field data is generated by reconstructing the dark-field image at each of the plurality of relative rotation angles without performing the scattering correction and a three-dimensional image of the subject is obtained by combining the first three-dimensional dark-field data and the second three-dimensional dark-field data.
wherein the image processing unit is configured to accept a change of the predetermined set value.
Filed: Nov 6, 2018
Publication Date: Mar 4, 2021
Inventors: Satoshi SANO (Kyoto), Kenji KIMURA (Kyoto), Taro SHIRAI (Kyoto), Takahiro DOKI (Kyoto), Akira HORIBA (Kyoto), Naoki MORIMOTO (Kyoto)
International Classification: A61B 6/00 (20060101);


For many people including children the billiary tubing is choked with gallstones.
There are over a half a dozen varieties of gallstones; most of which have cholesterol crystals in them. They can be black, red, white, green or tan coloured. The green ones get their colour from being coated with bile. At the very center of each stone is found a clump of bacteria, according to scientist, suggesting parasites might have started the stone forming. As the stones grow and become more numerous the back pressure on the liver causes it to make less bile. With gallstones, much less cholesterol leaves the body and the cholesterol levels may rise.
Gallstones, being porous, can pick up all bacteria, cysts, viruses and parasites that are passing through the liver. In this way "nests" of infection are formed, forever supplying the body with fresh bacteria. No stomach infection such as ulcers of intestinal bloating can be cured permanently without removing these gallstones from the liver.
Cleanse you liver twice a year!
Choose a day like a Saturday for the cleaning, since you will be able to rest the next day.
Take NO-FAT breakfast and lunch such as cooked cereal with fruit, fruit juice, bread and preserves or honey. NO BUTTER OR MILK. No fatty foods or food containing fats or oils. You may have vegetables with salt only. This will allow the bile to build-up and develop pressure in the liver. Higher pressure pushes out more stones.
Do not eat or drink after 2'o clock. If you break this rule you could feel quit ill later. Get your Liver-Salt mix ready.
Mix the tub of Liver-Salts with 3 cups water and pour into a jar.
NB. This makes 4 servings of a 3/4 cup each.
Put the jar into the fridge, when it is ice cold it will taste better.
Drink one serving (3/4 cup) of the ice-cold Liver-Salt.
You may also drink a few mouthfuls of water afterwards or rinse your mouth.
Repeat by drinking another 3/4 cup of the Liver-Salt mixture. You haven't eaten since 2'o clock, but you won't feel hungry. Get your bedtime chores done.
The timing is critical for success!
Don't be more than 10 minutes early or late.
Squeeze the grapefruit by hand into the measuring cup, and remove all pulp with fork. You may use 100% Grapefruit juice. You must have at least 1/2 (half) cup, more (up to 3/4 cup) is best. You may top it up with Sprite.
Add this to the OZONATED OLIVE Oil.
Close the jar tightly with the lid and shake hard until watery (only fresh grapefruit juice does this) Now visit the bathroom one more time!
Drink the grapefruit/Ozonated Olive oil potion you have mixed.
Take 2-4 Sleep-Aid tablets with the first sip (Sleep-Aid is optional to use), to make sure you will sleep through the night.
Drinking through a large straw helps it go down easier.
You may use cinnamon or brown sugar to chase it down between sips.
You might fail to get stones out if you don't.
The sooner you lie down the more stones you will get out. Be ready for bed ahead of time.
As soon as the drink is down walk to your bed and lie down flat on your back with your head up high on the pillow.
Try to think about what is happening in the liver and gallbladder. Try to keep perfectly still for at least 20 minutes.
You may feel a train of stones traveling along the bile duct valves like marbles. There is no pain because the bile duct vales are open.
Upon awakening take your third dose of Liver-Salt mixture.
You can go back to bed.
Take your fourth (the last) dose of Liver-Salt mixture.
You may go back to bed. After 2 more hours you may eat.
Start with fruit juice, half an hour later eat fruit.
One hour later you may eat regular food but keep it light. By supper you should feel recovered.
This is a picture taken by Gillian Milner from Plett showing some of the larger stones that were washed out the next morning after her Hydrozone Liver Cleanse.
Expect diarrhea in the morning of the second day (Sunday). The ideal way to see what you are actually eliminating is to defecate into a white porcelain bowl or large white plastic bucket. The bowl or bucket is used instead of the toilet to also see the reddish crystals, which collect, at the bottom of the bowl (the stones float on top) and those crystals would ordinarily be lost somewhere at the bottomless hole in the toilet and you would have missed them. If you don't care to see the crystals - by all means, use the toilet.
Another way would be to use the toilet and look into it for the stones with a flashlight. Look for the greenish kind, since this is proof that they are genuine gallstones and not food residue. Only bile from the liver is green. The bowel movement (if there is any) sinks, but gall and liver stones float because of the cholesterol content. Eventually, you may have to eliminate up to 2,000 stones, in several sessions, over a period of a year or so, before the liver is clean enough to rid you of all allergies or upper back, or other symptoms, permanently. The first cleanse may rid you of them for a while, but as the stones from the rear of the liver travel forward, they might give you the same symptoms again. You may repeat this gallbladder/liver cleanse at two-month intervals until no more stones come out.
Never purge when you are ill. Pregnant mothers should consult their pediatrician. The elderly should do this purge under the supervision of a health specialist. Drink lots of water during the second and third day.
Sometimes, the bile ducts are full of cholesterol crystals that did not form into round stones. They appear as a "chaff" floating on top of the toilet bowl water. It may be tan coloured, harbouring millions of tiny white crystals. Cleansing this chaff is just as important as purging stones.
How safe is the liver cleanse?
It is very safe. Professionals and individuals have conducted thousands of liver purges, including many persons in their seventies and eighties. We have heard of nobody ending up in a hospital, and none reported pain. This liver purge could make you feel a little uncomfortable for a day or two thereafter. Stirred-up toxins are in solution, begging to be released.
The above procedure contradicts many modern medical viewpoints. Gallstones are thought to be few, not thousands. They don't get linked to pains other than gall bladder attacks. It is easy to understand why this is thought: By the time you have acute pain attacks, some stones are in the gallbladder, are big enough and sufficiently calcified to be seen on X-ray, and they have caused inflammation there.
When the gall bladder is removed surgically, the acute pain attack is gone, but bursitis, allergies, digestive problems and other symptoms recur and get worse. Stones are not thought to reside in the liver. If the liver is operated upon, only the largest and worst offenders can be removed - yet uncountable stones, gravel and crystals remain in the already clogged liver, which has not improved at all.
The truth is self-evident: People who have their gallbladder surgically removed, still eliminate green, bile-coated stones with our liver purge. Anyone who cares to dissect these eliminated stones can see that the concentric circles and crystals of cholesterol match textbook pictures of "gallstones", exactly.
In the highly unlikely event that you feel waves of pain reaching up to your throat, you might have a gallstone stuck in a bile duct. Clay-coloured stool is evidence of bile duct blockage. Epsom salts can relax that bile duct in 20 minutes. Take a heaping tablespoon in 3/4 cup of water but only on an empty stomach or you may feel quite ill.
Taking a large dose of Valerian herb, 6 to 8 capsules four times a day, including bedtime, may also help to relax the duct. If you do get relief, you can be sure it was a spasm of the bile duct system. The magnesium in the Epsom salts relaxes spasms. It would be best to clean the liver a number of times (at two week intervals unless too ill) to try to dislodge the sticking gallstone. If this does not relieve the pain then you need to consult a medical professional.
It is advisable to drink copious amount of water during the second and third day, when you eliminate the waste matter and body fluids as well.
You have taken out your gallstones without surgery! I like to think I have perfected this recipe, but I certainly cannot take credit for its origin. It was invented hundreds, if not thousands, of years ago, THANK YOU, HERBALISTS!
IF YOU HAVE ANY DOUBTS AT ALL WHETHER THIS PROCEDURE WORKS, OR WHETHER IT IS OF ANY VALUE, YOU SHOULD CONSULT A PHYSICIAN, WHO IS KNOWLEDGEABLE IN ALTERNATIVE AND NATURAL HEALING MODALITIES.


text:
Q: Pre-Fill Dialog box using FBConnect? A few months ago I used to be able to pre-fill the dialog box with my own text so the user would only have to click share to share that text but it seems that Facebook has started to ignore that parameter like they say in this post: https://developers.facebook.com/blog/post/510/
So is there any other way around it so I can pre-fill a message that the user can easily share?
Thanks!
- (void)webViewDidFinishLoad:(UIWebView *)webView
{
    [super webViewDidFinishLoad:webView];

    if (defaultStatus)
    {
        // Set the pre-filled status message
        [_webView stringByEvaluatingJavaScriptFromString:
         [NSString stringWithFormat:@"document.getElementsByName('feedform_user_message')[0].value = decodeURIComponent('%@')",
          [SHKEncode(defaultStatus) stringByReplacingOccurrencesOfString:@"'" withString:@"\\'"]
         ]
        ];

        // Make the text field bigger
        [_webView stringByEvaluatingJavaScriptFromString:@"document.getElementsByName('feedform_user_message')[0].style.height='100px'"];
    }
}

A: afaik it is not possible anymore to pre-fill the message box with the javascript api, which is a good thing. after all it is against the platform policies:
https://developers.facebook.com/docs/guides/policy/application_integration_points/
but: it should still be possible with the php api/sdk. you just have to allow the user to edit the message before you send it, with a textarea or input field. just make a post to /me/feed with the message parameter.


This stunning solitaire ring is a bespoke Birks design.
Crafted in 18 Karat, white gold this ring features one generously sized, 1.42 carat old European cut diamond, clarity grade SI1 colour grade K-L, quality of cut fair.
In addition, the main stone is accented with a pave set collar of ten brilliant cut diamonds approximately 0.01 carat each, clarity grade VS, colour grade G-H, quality of cut good. Currently size 5, this ring may easily be resized.


text:
Arrival gets BlackRock to Invest $118 Million Into Electric Vehicles
Hyundai and Kia aren't the only ones that are backing the electric vehicle maker, Arrival. Joining the automakers, investment behemoth BlackRock is looking into funding some factories for the British-based startup. This will allow the battery-powered models to have a cost advantage over the competition. It's apparently the biggest infusion of funds that Arrival has. The company made waves with the announcement that they're planning to put the premiere microfactory in South Carolina. This facility has a cost estimate of about $46 million.
As for the factory in Bicester, England, Arrival is looking to have that open up shop within 2021. Founder-slash-CEO Denis Sverdlov says this additional capital will be put towards furthering Arrival's growth, "as we deepen and expand our presence in the U.S. and other new markets globally." Sverdlov made the company in London, circa 2015. This was in an attempt to become the leading provider of electric buses and trucks. The demand for emission-free vehicles expands further to this day.
Yet, the company is doing well, claiming that the commercial vans will cost no less than the conventional models. They may be powered by gasoline or diesel. The startup also is looking at electric transit buses. It states that it will be able to sell those way lower than the industrial titans of the transit industry. (Such competitors include Proterra, New Flyer and BYD.)
Arrival arrived a while ago…
The company, Arrival, blew up earlier in 2020 when both Hyundai and Kia purchased 100 million euros worth of a stake. Therefore, pushing the valuartion to about $3 billion. Arrival electric delivery vans for the fleet ultimately turned about in a deal, potentially worth $500 million. UPS might even have a say in this, as they're looking to buy another 10,000 units.
All I can say is that no matter how many iterations Arrival may have, no one will ever want to see the company depart if it keeps up these levels of production.
Ford Recalls 16,430 F-150 Trucks Over Improper Seatbelt Installation
Kicking off the 47th Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race!


text:
Evolutionary Psychology: A Fundraiser's Best Friend
By Otis Fulton and Katrina VanHuss
Otis and I sit around on Saturday morning in our pajamas and talk. After reading the news and perusing Facebook, we always end up at "evolutionary psychology" in answer to the question, "Why would people do that?"
The answer to "why would people do that?" is rarely that it is good for that person. If people did what was good for them, that would imply they thought through all the implications of their actions. Typically, people are making decisions a lot faster than that kind of thought would allow. Instead, they are making decisions using shortcuts, or "heuristics," to use a psychology term. Those heuristics sometimes are learned, but more often are inherited traits that have evolved.
A learned heuristic might be seeking out a uniformed police officer if you feel afraid.
An evolved heuristic might be finding someone in a crowd who looks like yourself if you feel afraid.
You know something is a learned heuristic because there were, for example, no uniformed police officers on the African Savanna, where our ancestors lived. But there were people who looked like yourself there, and by ganging together, you and the one who looked like you were more likely to survive.
The word "heuristic" has its root in the word "eureka." Simply put, a heuristic is a tool that simplifies decision-making. If you are an American driving in the U.K. for the first time, heuristics would help you when you assume that green lights mean go and red lights mean stop. You wouldn't have to waste your time reading a brochure on U.K. traffic laws to get that right. But the same heuristic could be disastrous if you drive on the right side of the road instead of the left, like we do in the U.S.
While some heuristics are learned and vary from culture to culture, others are nearly universal. They are systematic, meaning that everyone exhibits the behavior. That's how we know which heuristics have evolved in humans over time. They allow us to do things quickly, and with a minimum amount of mental energy. But like any shortcut, speed sometimes comes at the expense of accuracy.
Evolved heuristics are evolutionary psychology in a nutshell. This is powerful, people. Most times the elements of decision-making impacted by evolved heuristics take the day. Not understanding them keeps us from understanding how to get people to donate, how to mobilize volunteers, how to write copy, how to choose which picture to use and lots more. If we make decisions about our campaigns based on anything other than the science around how people make decisions, we are adrift. If we are in love with our own ideas so much that we ignore how our targets think, we will fail. Hell, we have failed. Giving in the U.S. as a percentage of GDP is stalled where it has been for decades.
We must understand how our supporters are making decisions because our supporters—and our prospective supporters—live in a noisy world. They experience many competing demands.
Because we ask for time and resources from our supporters, we can think of them as consumers. They have limited capital to devote to our causes, and there is a lot of competition for their attention. Competition comes in many forms—other causes, college tuition, family obligation, lack of motivation. The list is endless.
One might think that evolution has little to do with consumer behavior. After all, our ancestors didn't stop at Starbucks for a morning latte. But they carry into Starbucks the same DNA with which they ran around half-naked in the wild, millions of years ago. An understanding of evolutionary psychology can give us insight into the motivation of our supporters.
Let's use some examples:
Use repetition. Why? Because humans sort information with which they are familiar more easily, and easy sorting feels like truth.
Use stories of one person instead of many people. Why? We can distinguish individual characteristics that help us relate to one person as in-group. You can't do that with a body of people so easily.
Ask for little things first. Why? A person seeing him or herself in action infers from their own behavior that the exhibited behavior reflects their belief, even when it doesn't.
Build fear. Why? Building fear makes one retreat to one's own group.
And here is the example closest to home for me. Turnkey works most in the peer-to-peer (P2P) fundraising channel. Evolutionary psychology is of utmost importance here.
P2P fundraising works for the same reason that humans evolved from being saber-toothed tiger prey to being the most effective predator in the history of planet Earth. Humans evolved to be more and more socially sensitive. The ability to understand the subtle nuances of your tribe members made you much more likely to thrive and survive. P2P works because it taps into that same skill, our finely tuned antenna for social influence. So when Girl Scouts come to sell us Do-Si-Dos and Thin Mints, we say yes, because they live down the block from us, they go to the same school as our kids. They are a member of our tribe. This is evolutionary psychology at work.
It is difficult when you write that last line of a blog that ties it all together into one piece. You say that last line in your head, and it sounds like Morgan Freeman saying it—and then your husband delivers to you a lovely little nugget of information that you must share, though it is tangential.
Enjoy, courtesy of the Beloved, my husband, consumer behavior expert Otis Fulton:
In his recent book "Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect," UCLA's Matthew Lieberman describes how we can determine whether or not a human characteristic is accidental or has evolved. It comes down to how universal the trait is. For example, far less than 10 percent of the world's population plays baseball, making it more likely that baseball is an accidental ability.
But take something like having friends. More than 95 percent of people report that they have friends. Friendship is nearly universal in humans, and has been documented in only a few other species. It is a complex phenomenon; every friend is first a stranger with whom we share no common genes. Maybe they pose a threat to us; we can't know when we first meet. And yet there is a process by which these strangers become people we depend on for all kinds of support. Lieberman concludes, "As a back-of-the-envelope calculation, 93 percent (universality) seems like a reasonable benchmark to say something might have been significant enough in its own right to promote evolutionary adaptation."
E Otis Fulton and Katrina VanHuss Author's page
Katrina VanHuss has been instilling passion in volunteer fundraisers since 1989 when she founded Turnkey. Otis joined in the fun in 2013 as Turnkey's resident human behavior expert. One thing led to another, and now as a married couple, they almost never stop talking about fundraising, volunteerism and human decision-making, much to the chagrin of most dinner companions.
Through their work at Turnkey, the pair works with the likes of the American Lung Association, Best Buddies, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, using human behavioral tendencies and recognition to create attachment and high fundraising in volunteers.
Katrina and Otis present regularly at clients' national conferences, as well as at BBCon, NonProfit Pro P2P and Peer to Peer Forum, and are the co-authors of the 2017 book, Dollar Dash. They live in Richmond, Va.
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