Showing papers on "Imaging technology published in 2006"

State-of-the-art on cone beam CT imaging for preoperative planning of implant placement.

Abstract: Orofacial diagnostic imaging has grown dramatically in recent years. As the use of endosseous implants has revolutionized oral rehabilitation, a specialized technique has become available for the preoperative planning of oral implant placement: cone beam computed tomography (CT). This imaging technology provides 3D and cross-sectional views of the jaws. It is obvious that this hardware is not in the same class as CT machines in cost, size, weight, complexity, and radiation dose. It is thus considered to be the examination of choice when making a risk–benefit assessment. The present review deals with imaging modalities available for preoperative planning purposes with a specific focus on the use of the cone beam CT and software for planning of oral implant surgery. It is apparent that cone beam CT is the medium of the future, thus, many changes will be performed to improve these. Any adaptation of the future systems should go hand in hand with a further dose optimalization.

Imaging of acute stroke

Abstract: Summary Thrombolytic therapy has led to a higher proportion of patients presenting to hospital early, and this, with parallel developments in imaging technology, has greatly improved the understanding of acute stroke pathophysiology. Additionally, MRI, including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and gradient echo, or T2*, imaging is important in understanding basic structural information—such as distinguishing acute ischaemia from haemorrhage. It has also greatly increased sensitivity in the diagnosis of acute cerebral ischaemia. The pathophysiology of the ischaemic penumbra can now be assessed with CT or MRI-based perfusion imaging techniques, which are widely available and clinically applicable. Pathophysiological information from CT or MRI increasingly helps clinical trial design, may allow targeted therapy in individual patients, and may extend the time scale for reperfusion therapy.

Non-invasive in vivo imaging in small animal research.

Abstract: Non-invasive real time in vivo molecular imaging in small animal models has become the essential bridge between in vitro data and their translation into clinical applications. The tremendous development and technological progress, such as tumour modelling, monitoring of tumour growth and detection of metastasis, has facilitated translational drug development. This has added to our knowledge on carcinogenesis. The modalities that are commonly used include Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), bioluminescence imaging, fluorescence imaging and multi-modality imaging systems. The ability to obtain multiple images longitudinally provides reliable information whilst reducing animal numbers. As yet there is no one modality that is ideal for all experimental studies. This review outlines the instrumentation available together with corresponding applications reported in the literature with particular emphasis on cancer research. Advantages and limitations to current imaging technology are discussed and the issues concerning small animal care during imaging are highlighted.

1E-5 Synergy and Applications of Combined Ultrasound, Elasticity, and Photoacoustic Imaging (Invited)

Abstract: An advanced in-vivo imaging technology; namely, combined ultrasound, elasticity and photoacoustic imaging, capable of visualizing both structural and functional properties of living tissue, is presented. This hybrid imaging technology is based on the fusion of the complementary imaging modalities and takes full advantage of the many synergistic features of these systems. To highlight fundamental differences and similarities between the imaging systems and to appreciate advantages and limitations of each imaging system, the basic physics of each imaging system is described. The experimental aspects of combined imaging including hardware, signal and image processing algorithms, etc. are presented. Noise and primary artifacts associated with each imaging modality and combined imaging system are analyzed, and techniques to increase and optimize contrast-to-noise and signal-to-noise ratios in the images are discussed. Finally, biomedical and clinical applications of the combined ultrasound, elasticity and photoacoustic imaging ranging from macroscopic to microscopic imaging of pathology are demonstrated and discussed

Imaging response assessment in oncology.

Abstract: The role of imaging in the clinical setting as well as in the drug development process is expanding rapidly. Imaging technology now exists that is capable of detecting tumor response within hours. In parallel with this advance, a new array of more targeted and specific therapies are being developed. This paradigm shift in turn demands a more sophisticated way of quantifying response. There is a need to update and modify the current response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST), which rely solely on anatomic size measurement of tumors. In addition, response assessment guidelines will need to be increasingly disease-specific. Response assessment by imaging is now intimately involved with all stages of the drug development process, from exploratory drug discovery through clinical trials, as well as in clinical use. Imaging biomarkers and surrogate endpoints have the potential to speed drug approval significantly. The major funding institutions and the pharmaceutical industry are working more and more with researchers to help maintain progress in this multidisciplinary area involving oncologists, radiologists, molecular imaging specialists, medical physicists, and computer scientists.

Modern Imaging Technologies in Toxicologic Pathology: An Overview:

Abstract: Modern imaging technology, now utilized in most biomedical research areas (bioimaging), enables the detection and visualization of biological processes at various levels of the molecule, organelle, cell, tissue, organ and/or whole body. In toxicologic pathology, the impact of modern imaging technology is becoming apparent from digital histopathology to novel molecular imaging for in vivo studies. This overview summarizes recent progresses in digital microscopy imaging and newly developed digital slide techniques. Applications of virtual microscopy imaging are discussed and compared to traditional optical microscopy reading. New generation digital pathology approaches, including automatic slide inspection, digital slide databases and image management are briefly introduced. Commonly used in vivo preclinical imaging technologies are also summarized. While most of these new imaging techniques are still undergoing rapid development, it is important that toxicologic pathologists embrace and utilize these technologies as advances occur.

Current applications of fetal cardiac imaging technology.

Abstract: Purpose of reviewOver the last few years, great progress has been made in imaging technology, which is changing the way prenatal visualization of the fetal heart is used for diagnosis and therapy.Recent findingsThis paper reviews recent clinical research using these new techniques, namely dy

Automated 3d freehand ultrasound calibration with real-time accuracy control

Abstract: 3D ultrasound (US) is an emerging new imaging technology that appeals to more and more applications in intraoperative guidance of computer-assisted surgery. In a freehand US imaging system, US probe calibration is typically required to construct a 3D image of the patient’s anatomy from a set of 2D US images. Most of the current calibration techniques concern primarily with the precision and accuracy. However, for computer-assisted surgeries that may require a calibration task inside the operating room (OR), many other important aspects have to be considered besides accuracy. In this paper, we propose a novel system for automated calibration that is optimized for the OR usage with real-time feedback and control of the calibration accuracy. We have also designed a novel N-wire phantom, with greatly reduced complexity to facilitate mass production without compromising the accuracy and robustness.

Optical Thermal Imaging – replacing microbolometer technology and achieving universal deployment

Abstract: The desire to “see” in complete darkness or through obscurants such as smoke or fog has driven the development and adoption of thermal imaging technology in numerous industries. Thermal imaging is the translation of a scene's heat signature-the Long Wavelength Infrared (LWIR) energy produced by a scene in the 8μm to 14μm waveband-into digital data that can be used to produce a visible image or be fed into a computer for interpretation. Because the thermal energy of a scene is independent of reflected light and because it can travel through obscurants with small particle sizes, thermal imaging is the technology of choice for imaging in the dark or other difficult environmental conditions.

Biomedical Imaging Research Opportunities Workshop III: A White Paper

Abstract: The third Biomedical Imaging Research Opportunities Workshop (BIROW III) was held on March 11–12, 2005, in Bethesda, MD. The workshop addressed four areas of imaging that present opportunities for research and development: Multimodality Image-Guided Therapy, Imaging Informatics, Imaging Cell Trafficking, and Technology Improvement and Commercialization. The first three areas were individually addressed in their own plenary sessions, followed by audience discussions that explored research opportunities and challenges. This paper synthesizes these discussions into a strategy for future research directions in biomedical imaging.

New clinical imaging modalities in prostate cancer.

Abstract: In all prostate cancer disease states, exciting novel imaging technology is being tested that may affect the future care of our patients. New US, MRI, and nuclear medicine techniques are improving both the ability to stage patients and to follow treatment-related changes. See Table 3 for a summary of these novel imaging techniques. Important issues still need to be resolved, including standardizing patient populations within trials, demonstrating the reproducibility of these techniques between different centers, and understanding how information gained from these techniques should influence patient care. We eagerly await answers to these questions.

Space applications of staring imaging technology with area FPA

Abstract: Characteristic,superiority,status quo and developing trend of staring imaging were introduced.The importance of staring imaging technology in remote sensing specialty was discussed and the involved key technologies were summed up.

Reagents for testing and molecular imaging of liver cancer

Abstract: The present invention describes both the identification of disease target molecules and the development of imaging reagents and diagnostic assays specific to those molecules. Described herein are methods and reagents for the identification of molecular targets specific to a disease or disease state, methods of imaging technology which can be used, the development of specific molecular imaging reagents, clinical validation of the imaging reagents, and clinical indications for molecular imaging.

Combining SLO and OCT technology.

Abstract: A review is presented of the research on high resolution imaging of the eye which can provide a dual display of images with different depth resolutions. The review refers to the flying spot scanning concept, widely exploited in the confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope and recently extended to optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging. For several reasons as presented in the paper, imaging with two different depth resolutions is useful and this has triggered the development of the dual en-face OCT--confocal imaging technology and of the OCT/Ophthalmoscope instrument. The dual acquisition and presentation can be performed either simultaneously (practised in the OCT/Ophthalmoscope) or sequentially. The sequential dual en-face OCT--confocal imaging technology can be implemented in different configurations and has specific applications. When the sequential switching is performed at the line rate of the raster frame, the display of the two images, OCT and confocal is quasi - simultaneous, in which case similar functionality is achieved to that of an OCT/Ophthalmoscope.

Visualization of 4D Computed Tomography Datasets

Abstract: Organ motion is problematic when employing radiation therapy to treat certain types of cancers. Motion problems are commonly encountered when treating lung, thorasic, and liver cancers, since patients breathe during treatment. To begin to address this issue, clinical researchers in the Radiation Physics Division at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed 4-D computed tomography (CT) imaging (the four dimensions being height, width, depth, and time). This new imaging technology provides clinicians with far more precise information on tumor motion with which to plan and administer radiation therapy. To aid radiologists and doctors, we have developed a visualization browser and supporting toolkit that allows for volume rendering of 4-D CT images. Included in this toolkit is the ability to simulate any amount of radiation dosage specified by the user. In our most recent enhancements to the toolkit, we have expanded its capabilities to create a fully-navigable 3D rendering model. We have developed this toolkit using SCIRun, a problem-solving environment specifically designed for visualization and modeling of complex scientific problems. Using SCIRun's visualization tool (Biolmage), we are able to render 4-D models based on CT scans. This paper describes our present efforts developing this capability, and discusses some of the features provided by the toolset

MDCT: a new era in imaging

Abstract: Multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) is an effective imaging technology, providing rapid and non-invasive images in three dimensions. Compared with standard computed tomography (CT), MDCT allows faster data acquisition and shorter scan times, with wider coverage, high resolution and the potential for cardiac gating. Routine thin-section acquisition allows for flexible reconstruction (thick or thin slices), while dedicated software provides three-dimensional and functional data analysis. The technology has a wide range of applications, particularly in cardiovascular medicine, where CT angiography has replaced conventional angiography in many regions of the body. Motion artefacts on cardiac scans are significantly reduced, and the diagnosis of luminal obstructive disease is enhanced. For non-cardiac applications, MDCT allows imaging of extensive arterial territories with unprecedented volumetric resolution. The detection of pulmonary emboli, characterization of arterial aneurysms and presurgical mapping are all improved substantially with MDCT. Pulmonary parenchymal imaging is enhanced, including superior lung nodule detection and better airway assessments. MDCT has rendered some diagnostic techniques, such as intravenous urography, virtually obsolete. The development of MDCT continues, with promises of further improvements and enhancements.

Design and analysis of x-ray microscope of four mirrors working at grazing incidence

Abstract: In the latest 20 years, x-ray imaging technology has developed fast in order to meet the need of x-ray photo-etching, spatial exploration technology, high-energy physics, procedure diagnosis of inertial confinement fusion (ICF) etc. But, Since refractive index of materials in the x-ray region is lower than 1, and x-ray is strongly absorbed by the materials, it is very difficult to image objects in the x ray region. Conventional imaging methods are hardly suitable to x-ray range. Generally, grazing reflective imaging and coding aperture imaging methods have been adopted more and more. In this paper, non-coaxial grazing reflective imaging KB and KBA microscope systems are discussed in detail, and an x-ray microscope consisting of four mirrors working at grazing incidence is designed. It is an anastigmatic system, and the oblique angle of the image is evidently decreased. The resolution of 5-7 can be obtained within 2 field of view. And finally we also make analysis of the key problems that are met in the processing of manufacturing this system are analyzed.

Shape and deformation measurement using heterodyne range imaging technology

Abstract: Range imaging is emerging as a promising alternative technology for applications that require non-contact visual inspection of object deformation and shape. Previously, we presented a solid-state full-field heterodyne range imaging device capable of capturing three-dimensional images with sub-millimetre range resolution. Using a heterodyne indirect time-of-flight configuration, this system simultaneously measures distance (and intensity), for each pixel in a cameras field of view. In this paper we briefly describe our range imaging system, and its principle of operation. By performing measurements on several metal objects, we demonstrate the potential capabilities of this technology for surface profiling and deformation measurement. In addition to verifying system performance, the reported examples highlight some important system limitations. With these in mind we subsequently discuss the further developments required to enable the use of this device as a robust and practical tool in non-destructive testing and measurement applications.

Imaging quality analysis of a KBA x-ray microscope working at grazing incidence

Abstract: In the last 20 years, x-ray imaging technology has developed to meet the needs of x-ray photoetching, spatial exploration, high-energy physics, and diagnosis of inertial confinement fusion. Because conventional imaging methods are not suitable in the x-ray range, grazing reflective imaging and coded aperture imaging methods have been adopted. In this paper, we describe the design of a noncoaxial grazing incidence KBA microscope. The microscope consists of two sets of spherical mirrors that scatter in orthogonal planes. An optical ray tracing program is used to analyze and evaluate the theoretical aberrations of the microscope. This allows us to optimize the x-ray imaging system. The analytical results provide a reliable foundation for determining the useful range and the manufacturing and assembly tolerances of the microscope.

High-Resolution and Microscopic Imaging at High Field

Abstract: The goal of improved spatial resolution in magnetic resonance imaging for better visualization of finer and finer structural details in the body is driven by a long tradition of microscopy in conventional anatomy. Centuries of anatomical studies have underscored the success with which the study of function and dysfunction can be complemented by the study of normal and pathological structure. Since relevant structures in the body span spatial scales from meters to the subcellular level, imaging technology has been pushed toward increasing resolution. Although there are solid motivations for imaging biological samples and small animal models with MR, a principal attraction of MR technology is the potential that advances in methodology can ultimately be adapted for use in living humans.

Digital autoradiography using CCD and CMOS imaging technology

Abstract: CCD and CMOS imaging technologies can be applied to thin tissue autoradiography as potential imaging alternatives to using conventional film. In this work, we compare two particular devices; a CCD operating in slow scan mode and a CMOS-based active pixel sensor, operating at near video rates. Both imaging sensors have been operated at room temperature with images produced from calibrated microscales and radio-labelled tissue samples. We also compare these digital imaging technologies with the use of conventional film. We show first comparative results obtained with 14C calibrated microscales and 35S radiolabelled tissue sections. We also present first results of 3H images produced under direct irradiation of a CCD sensor operating at room temperature. Compared to film, silicon-based imaging technologies exhibit enhanced sensitivity, dynamic range and linearity.

FPGA-based Architecture forReal-Time IPVideoand ImageCompression

Abstract: Three-dimensional imaging applications require high resolution images thatfinally result inhighdatavolumes. Due tobandwidth andstorage restrictions, anefficient androbust compression schememustbedeveloped inordertoovercome theselimitations. This work presentsa hardware implementation ofa real-time disparity estimation scheme targeted butnotlimited toIntegral Photography (IP) 3D imaging applications. Theproposed systemdemonstrates an efficient architecture whichcopeswiththe increased bandwidth demandsthat3D imaging technology requires. Moreover, thesystem cansuccessfully process highresolution IPvideo sequences inreal-time. Figure 2.Part ofanIPimage Oneofthemainissues whendeveloping applications I. INTRODUCTION based butnotrestricted totheIPprinciple, isthenecessity to handle highresolution images that result inhighbandwidth Thedemandforthree-dimensional imaging applications anstrgreuem t.Coeqnlyahi-ficny iscontinuously rising covering awidevariety ofspecialized andstorage requirements. Consequently, ahigh-efficiency toeveryday visualcommunications. A. specialcategor compression scheme oftheassociated dataiscrucial. The

A novel x-ray imaging system and its imaging performance

Abstract: Since x-ray was discovered and applied to the imaging technology, the x-ray imaging techniques have experienced several improvements, from film-screen, x-ray image intensifier, CR to DR. To store and transmit the image information conveniently, the digital imaging is necessary for the imaging techniques in medicine and biology. Usually as the intensifying screen technique as for concerned, to get the digital image signals, the CCD was lens coupled directly to the screen, but which suffers from a loss of x-ray signal and resulted in the poor x-ray image perfonnance. Therefore, to improve the image performance, we joined the brightness intensifier, which, was named the Low Light Level (LLL) image intensifier in military affairs, between the intensifying screen and the CCD and designed the novel x-ray imaging system. This design method improved the image performance of the whole system thus decreased the x-ray dose. Comparison between two systems with and without the brightness intensifier was given in detail in this paper. Moreover, the main noise source of the image produced by the novel system was analyzed, and in this paper, the original images produced by the novel x-ray imaging system and the processed images were given respectively. It was clear that the image performance was satisfied and the x-ray imaging system can be used in security checking and many other nondestructive checking fields.

FPGA-based architecture for real-time IP video and image compression

Abstract: Three-dimensional imaging applications require high resolution images that finally result in high data volumes. Due to bandwidth and storage restrictions, an efficient and robust compression scheme must be developed in order to overcome these limitations. This work presents a hardware implementation of a real-time disparity estimation scheme targeted but not limited to integral photography (IP) 3D imaging applications. The proposed system demonstrates an efficient architecture which copes with the increased bandwidth demands that 3D imaging technology requires. Moreover, the system can successfully process high resolution IP video sequences in real-time.