Showing papers on "Imaging technology published in 2014"

Intraoperative Imaging-Guided Cancer Surgery: From Current Fluorescence Molecular Imaging Methods to Future Multi-Modality Imaging Technology

Abstract: Cancer is a major threat to human health. Diagnosis and treatment using precision medicine is expected to be an effective method for preventing the initiation and progression of cancer. Although anatomical and functional imaging techniques such as radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) have played an important role for accurate preoperative diagnostics, for the most part these techniques cannot be applied intraoperatively. Optical molecular imaging is a promising technique that provides a high degree of sensitivity and specificity in tumor margin detection. Furthermore, existing clinical applications have proven that optical molecular imaging is a powerful intraoperative tool for guiding surgeons performing precision procedures, thus enabling radical resection and improved survival rates. However, detection depth limitation exists in optical molecular imaging methods and further breakthroughs from optical to multi-modality intraoperative imaging methods are needed to develop more extensive and comprehensive intraoperative applications. Here, we review the current intraoperative optical molecular imaging technologies, focusing on contrast agents and surgical navigation systems, and then discuss the future prospects of multi-modality imaging technology for intraoperative imaging-guided cancer surgery.

Recent advances in imaging technologies in dentistry

Abstract: Dentistry has witnessed tremendous advances in all its branches over the past three decades. With these advances, the need for more precise diagnostic tools, specially imaging methods, have become mandatory. From the simple intra-oral periapical X-rays, advanced imaging techniques like computed tomography, cone beam computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound have also found place in modern dentistry. Changing from analogue to digital radiography has not only made the process simpler and faster but also made image storage, manipulation (brightness/contrast, image cropping, etc.) and retrieval easier. The three-dimensional imaging has made the complex cranio-facial structures more accessible for examination and early and accurate diagnosis of deep seated lesions. This paper is to review current advances in imaging technology and their uses in different disciplines of dentistry.

Advances in computed tomography imaging technology.

Abstract: Computed tomography (CT) is an essential tool in diagnostic imaging for evaluating many clinical conditions. In recent years, there have been several notable advances in CT technology that already have had or are expected to have a significant clinical impact, including extreme multidetector CT, iterative reconstruction algorithms, dual-energy CT, cone-beam CT, portable CT, and phase-contrast CT. These techniques and their clinical applications are reviewed and illustrated in this article. In addition, emerging technologies that address deficiencies in these modalities are discussed.

Advance of molecular imaging technology and targeted imaging agent in imaging and therapy.

Abstract: Molecular imaging is an emerging field that integrates advanced imaging technology with cellular and molecular biology. It can realize noninvasive and real time visualization, measurement of physiological or pathological process in the living organism at the cellular and molecular level, providing an effective method of information acquiring for diagnosis, therapy, and drug development and evaluating treatment of efficacy. Molecular imaging requires high resolution and high sensitive instruments and specific imaging agents that link the imaging signal with molecular event. Recently, the application of new emerging chemical technology and nanotechnology has stimulated the development of imaging agents. Nanoparticles modified with small molecule, peptide, antibody, and aptamer have been extensively applied for preclinical studies. Therapeutic drug or gene is incorporated into nanoparticles to construct multifunctional imaging agents which allow for theranostic applications. In this review, we will discuss the characteristics of molecular imaging, the novel imaging agent including targeted imaging agent and multifunctional imaging agent, as well as cite some examples of their application in molecular imaging and therapy.

Recent advances in imaging technologies in dentistry

Abstract: Dentistry has witnessed tremendous advances in all its branches over the past three decades. With these advances, the need for more precise diagnostic tools,specially imaging methods, have become mandatory.From the simple intra-oral periapical X-rays, advanced imaging techniques like computed tomography, cone beam computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound have also found place in modern dentistry. Changing from analogue to digital radiography has not only made the process simpler and faster but also made image storage, manipulation(brightness/contrast, image cropping, etc.) and retrieval easier. The three-dimensional imaging has made the complex cranio-facial structures more accessible for examination and early and accurate diagnosis of deep seated lesions. This paper is to review current advances in imaging technology and their uses in different disciplines of dentistry.

C-arm cone-beam computed tomography in interventional oncology: technical aspects and clinical applications

Abstract: C-arm cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a new imaging technology integrated in modern angiographic systems. Due to its ability to obtain cross-sectional imaging and the possibility to use dedicated planning and navigation software, it provides an informed platform for interventional oncology procedures. In this paper, we highlight the technical aspects and clinical applications of CBCT imaging and navigation in the most common loco-regional oncological treatments.

Clinical applications of spectral molecular imaging: potential and challenges

Abstract: Spectral molecular imaging is a new X-ray-based imaging technology providing highly specific 3D imaging at high spatial resolution that has the potential to measure disease activity and response to treatment noninvasively. The ability to identify and quantify components of tissue and biomarkers of disease activity derive from the properties of the photon-processing detector. Multiple narrow sections of the energy spectrum are sampled simultaneously, providing a range of energy dependent Hounsfield units. As each material has a specific measurable X-ray spectrum, spectroscopic imaging allows for multiple materials to be quantified and differentiated from each other simultaneously. The technology, currently in its infancy, is set to grow rapidly, much as magnetic resonance did. The critical clinical applications have not yet been established, but it is likely to play a major role in identifying and directing treatment for unstable atherosclerotic plaque, assessing activity and response to treatment of a range of inflammatory diseases, and monitoring biomarkers of cancer and its treatment. If combined with Positron-emission tomography (PET), spectral molecular imaging could have a far greater effective role in cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring than PET-CT does at present. It is currently used for small animal and specimen imaging. There are many challenges to be overcome before spectral imaging can be introduced into clinical medicine - these include technological improvements to detector design, bonding to the semiconductor layer, image reconstruction and display software, identifying which biomarkers are of most relevance to the disease in question, and accelerating drug discovery enabled by the new capabilities provided by spectral imaging.

Review of 3-D Endoscopic Surface Imaging Techniques

Abstract: This paper provides an overview of state-of-the-art 3-D endoscopic imaging technologies. Physical objects in the world are 3-D, yet traditional endoscopes can only acquire 2-D images that lack depth information. This fundamental restriction greatly limits our ability to perceive and understand the complexity of real world objects. Lack of 3-D information also hinders our ability to quantitatively measure 3-D objects. In both medical imaging and industrial inspection applications, 3-D surface imaging capability would add one more dimension, literally and figuratively, to the existing imaging technologies. Over the past decades, tremendous new technologies and methods emerged in the 3-D surface imaging field. In this paper, we first provide a classification of these technologies. We then describe each category in detail, with representative designs and examples. This overview would be useful to researchers in the field since it provides a snapshot of the current state-of-the-art, from which subsequent research in meaningful directions is encouraged. This overview also contributes to the efficiency of research by preventing unnecessary duplication of already performed research.

Potential Clinical Applications of PET/MR Imaging in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Abstract: Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer disease are among today’s most alarming health problems in our aging society. The clinical assessment of neurodegenerative disorders benefits from recent innovations in the field of imaging technology. These innovations include emerging tracers for molecular imaging of neurodegenerative pathology and the introduction of novel integrated PET/MR imaging instruments. Because both PET and MR imaging procedures have shown critical value in the diagnostic work-up of neurodegenerative disorders, the combination of both imaging modalities in the form of an integrated PET/MR imaging system may be of value. This combination includes practical methodologic advantages and an improved workflow facilitated by the combined acquisition of dual-modality data. It offers clinical advantages because of the systematic combination of complementary information, potentially allowing the creation of novel integrated imaging biomarkers. The effectiveness of new disease-modifying treatments may depend on the timely initiation of therapy before irreversible neuronal damage in slowly progressive neurodegenerative disorders. Integrated PET/MR imaging may be able to improve such early diagnosis through both structural and functional information.

FTIR Imaging of Tissues: Techniques and Methods of Analysis

Abstract: In this chapter, we describe biomedical applications of infrared microscopic imaging applied to human tissue sections. The central focus is human diseases including cervical cancer, neurodegenerative pathologies, and dysfunctions of cardiac and liver tissues. In addition, we briefly describe the fundamentals of FTIR imaging instrumentation along with spectral pre-processing and hyperspectral image reconstruction. The chapter concludes with a summary of what is required to take FTIR imaging technology into the clinical environment.

Electromagnetic tomography for brain imaging: From virtual to human brain

Abstract: Electromagnetic Tomography, when matured, might present an effective supplement to current imaging modalities for fast and mobile diagnostic of stroke and for safe and easy to apply monitoring imaging technology for assessment of perfusion related brain injuries and an efficacy of treatment. We have advanced the technology from virtual brain imaging stage to an imaging of normal human brain (volunteers study). The developed EMT scanner for human brain imaging and first imaging results are presented here.

Advanced imaging in COPD: insights into pulmonary pathophysiology.

Abstract: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) involves a complex interaction of structural and functional abnormalities. The two have long been studied in isolation. However, advanced imaging techniques allow us to simultaneously assess pathological processes and their physiological consequences. This review gives a comprehensive account of the various advanced imaging modalities used to study COPD, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the nuclear medicine techniques positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Some more recent developments in imaging technology, including micro-CT, synchrotron imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electrical impedance tomography (EIT), are also described. The authors identify the pathophysiological insights gained from these techniques, and speculate on the future role of advanced imaging in both clinical and research settings.

Development and validation of a modelling framework for simulating 2D-mammography and breast tomosynthesis images

Abstract: Planar 2D x-ray mammography is generally accepted as the preferred screening technique used for breast cancer detection. Recently, digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) has been introduced to overcome some of the inherent limitations of conventional planar imaging, and future technological enhancements are expected to result in the introduction of further innovative modalities. However, it is crucial to understand the impact of any new imaging technology or methodology on cancer detection rates and patient recall. Any such assessment conventionally requires large scale clinical trials demanding significant investment in time and resources. The concept of virtual clinical trials and virtual performance assessment may offer a viable alternative to this approach. However, virtual approaches require a collection of specialized modelling tools which can be used to emulate the image acquisition process and simulate images of a quality indistinguishable from their real clinical counterparts. In this paper, we present two image simulation chains constructed using modelling tools that can be used for the evaluation of 2D-mammography and DBT systems. We validate both approaches by comparing simulated images with real images acquired using the system being simulated. A comparison of the contrast-to-noise ratios and image blurring for real and simulated images of test objects shows good agreement ( < 9% error). This suggests that our simulation approach is a promising alternative to conventional physical performance assessment followed by large scale clinical trials.

Impact of imaging measurements on response assessment in glioblastoma clinical trials

Abstract: We provide historical and scientific guidance on imaging response assessment for incorporation into clinical trials to stimulate effective and expedited drug development for recurrent glioblastoma by addressing 3 fundamental questions: (i) What is the current validation status of imaging response assessment, and when are we confident assessing response using today's technology? (ii) What imaging technology and/or response assessment paradigms can be validated and implemented soon, and how will these technologies provide benefit? (iii) Which imaging technologies need extensive testing, and how can they be prospectively validated? Assessment of T1 +/− contrast, T2/FLAIR, diffusion, and perfusion-imaging sequences are routine and provide important insight into underlying tumor activity. Nonetheless, utility of these data within and across patients, as well as across institutions, are limited by challenges in quantifying measurements accurately and lack of consistent and standardized image acquisition parameters. Currently, there exists a critical need to generate guidelines optimizing and standardizing MRI sequences for neuro-oncology patients. Additionally, more accurate differentiation of confounding factors (pseudoprogression or pseudoresponse) may be valuable. Although promising, diffusion MRI, perfusion MRI, MR spectroscopy, and amino acid PET require extensive standardization and validation. Finally, additional techniques to enhance response assessment, such as digital T1 subtraction maps, warrant further investigation.

Review of treatment assessment using DCE-MRI in breast cancer radiation therapy.

Abstract: As a noninvasive functional imaging technique, dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) is being used in oncology to measure properties of tumor microvascular structure and permeability. Studies have shown that parameters derived from certain pharmacokinetic models can be used as imaging biomarkers for tumor treatment response. The use of DCE-MRI for quantitative and objective assessment of radiation therapy has been explored in a variety of methods and tumor types. However, due to the complexity in imaging technology and divergent outcomes from different pharmacokinetic approaches, the method of using DCE-MRI in treatment assessment has yet to be standardized, especially for breast cancer. This article reviews the basic principles of breast DCE-MRI and recent studies using DCE-MRI in treatment assessment. Technical and clinical considerations are emphasized with specific attention to assessment of radiation treatment response.

Recent Progress of Near-Infrared (NIR) Imaging —Development of Novel Instruments and Their Applicability for Practical Situations—

Abstract: The purpose of this review article is to outline the recent progress in near-infrared (NIR) imaging technology with particular emphasis on new instrumentation. Superior features of NIR imaging such as suitability for nondestructive and in-situ analysis, transmission ability, availability of optical fibers, high-speed monitoring and stability are very attractive not only for laboratory-based studies but also for diverse practical applications. In this review, introduction to chemical imaging is described, and then, a comparison among NIR, infrared (IR) and Raman imaging are made. Furthermore, the features of new NIR imaging instruments developed by our research group in collaboration with Yokogawa Electric Corporation and Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. are discussed. Finally, some examples of applications of NIR imaging are introduced. Particularly, the performance and usefulness of the newly-developed imaging devices are demonstrated through their applications to pharmaceutical tablets and polymers.

CubeSat Image Resolution Capabilities with Deployable Optics and Current Imaging Technology

Abstract: Research in attitude determination and control, communications, power, and propulsion of CubeSats are making advances every year. Advancement in these areas of technology are required for CubeSats to be capable of increased resolution imagery. One aspect of CubeSats, and all other small satellites, remains constant: their limited volume. The volume ultimately limits the size of an optical payload. A brief survey of current Earth optical imaging satellites shows the importance of aperture size to obtain the spatial resolution required to achieve mission objectives. The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is researching deployable optical apertures in order to overcome the volume constraint on aperture diameter and telescope focal length. To date, SDL has demonstrated successful deployment repeatability of optical mirror segments and metering structures that are capable of supporting highresolution imagery in the visible spectrum. The paper concludes with a conceptual CubeSat high resolution imager that incorporates deployable optics and current imaging technology.

Universal Hand-held Three-dimensional Optoacoustic Imaging Probe for Deep Tissue Human Angiography and Functional Preclinical Studies in Real Time

Abstract: The exclusive combination of high optical contrast and excellent spatial resolution makes optoacoustics (photoacoustics) ideal for simultaneously attaining anatomical, functional and molecular contrast in deep optically opaque tissues. While enormous potential has been recently demonstrated in the application of optoacoustics for small animal research, vast efforts have also been undertaken in translating this imaging technology into clinical practice. We present here a newly developed optoacoustic tomography approach capable of delivering high resolution and spectrally enriched volumetric images of tissue morphology and function in real time. A detailed description of the experimental protocol for operating with the imaging system in both hand-held and stationary modes is provided and showcased for different potential scenarios involving functional and molecular studies in murine models and humans. The possibility for real time visualization in three dimensions along with the versatile handheld design of the imaging probe make the newly developed approach unique among the pantheon of imaging modalities used in today's preclinical research and clinical practice.

Use of thermographic imaging in clinical diagnosis of small animal: preliminary notes

Abstract: Introduction. The authors, after a description of the physics of infrared thermographic technique (IRT), analyze the reading of images and the main applications in the veterinary field, compared to the existing literature on the subject and to their experimental re searches. IRT lends itself to countless applications in biology, thanks to its characteristics of versatility, lack of invasiveness and high sensitivity. Probably the major limitation to its application in the animal lies in the ease of use and in its extreme sensitivity. Materials and methods. From September 2009 to October 2010, the experimental investigation with the thermo camera took into consideration 110 animals (92 dogs and 18 cats), without any selection criteria. All patients were brought to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Milan University by the owner, to be examined by a specialist, or to undergo one of the following diagnostic procedures: X-rays, computed tomography, or ultrasound examinations; finally some patients were brought in for surgical procedures. With the con sent of the owner, 1 to 10 thermographic images were recorded from each clinical case. Results. In this first experimental investigation, thermography has shown a high sensitiv ity (100%), but a low specificity (44%). This figure excludes the use of thermal imaging technology to replace other imaging techniques such as radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Furthermore, it does not show any ability to recognize the etiology of the disease, but only the thermal alteration, and this is restricting its use. However, this experimental study has demonstrated that thermography can be used in veterinary medicine, and specifically in dogs and cats. It is hoped that in the field of targeted diseases this technique will become an important tool for diagnostic purposes by using working protocols validated and repeatable.

Recent Advances in Time-Domain Seismic Imaging

Abstract: Time-domain imaging, which includes prestack time migration, as well as normal moveout, offset continuation, and stacking, is a workhorse of seismic data processing. Although time-domain imaging technology has been commodified and almost fallen off the radar of seismic imaging research, opportunities for advancing this technology have not been exhausted yet. Recent advances in velocity-independent imaging, time-to-depth conversion, and wave-equation time migration reveal new opportunities for fundamental breakthrough improvements.

Paradoxical Embolism: Role of Imaging in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Abstract: Paradoxical embolism (PDE) is an uncommon cause of acute arterial occlusion that may have catastrophic sequelae. The possibility of its presence should be considered in all patients with an arterial embolus in the absence of a cardiac or proximal arterial source. Despite advancements in radiologic imaging technology, the use of various complementary modalities is usually necessary to exclude other possibilities from the differential diagnosis and achieve an accurate imaging-based diagnosis of PDE. In current practice, the imaging workup of a patient with symptoms of PDE usually starts with computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging to identify the cause of the symptoms and any thromboembolic complications in target organs (eg, stroke, peripheral arterial occlusion, or visceral organ ischemia). Additional imaging studies with modalities such as peripheral venous Doppler ultrasonography (US), transcranial Doppler US, echocardiography, and CT or MR imaging are required to detect peripheral and central sources of embolism, identify cardiac and/or extracardiac shunts, and determine whether arterial disease is present. To guide radiologists in selecting the optimal modalities for use in various diagnostic settings, the article provides detailed information about the imaging of PDE, with numerous radiologic and pathologic images illustrating the wide variety of features that may accompany and contribute to the pathologic process. The roles of CT and MR imaging in the diagnosis and exclusion of PDE are described, and the use of imaging for planning surgical treatment and interventional procedures is discussed.

Initial experience of MR/PET in a clinical cancer center

Abstract: Magentic Resonance/positron emission tomography (PET) has been introduced recently for imaging of clinical patients. This hybrid imaging technology combines the inherent strengths of MRI with its high soft-tissue contrast and biological sequences with the inherent strengths of PET, enabling imaging of metabolism with a high sensitivity. In this article, we describe the initial experience of MR/PET in a clinical cancer center along with a review of the literature. For establishing MR/PET in a clinical setting, technical challenges, such as attenuation correction and organizational challenges, such as workflow and reimbursement, have to be overcome. The most promising initial results of MR/PET have been achieved in anatomical areas where high soft-tissue and contrast resolution is of benefit. Head and neck cancer and pelvic imaging are potential applications of this hybrid imaging technology. In the pediatric population, MR/PET can decrease the lifetime radiation dose. MR/PET protocols tailored to different types of malignancies need to be developed. After the initial exploration phase, large multicenter trials are warranted to determine clinical indications for this exciting hybrid imaging technology and thereby opening new horizons in molecular imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;39:768–780. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Review of development of laser active imaging technology in China and foreign countries

Abstract: Range-gated laser active imaging technology is an effective way to image detection and precise tracking of remote, dark, and small targets that overcomes the shortcomings of passive visible or infrared imaging technology, thus has important practical value and broad application prospects in the military. The paper based on the analysis of its principle, technical advantages and key technologies focus on the typical systems under atmospheric conditions at home and abroad and the latest research results, and discusses the development trends of this technology.

Implantable Ultrasonic Imaging Assembly for Automated Monitoring of Internal Organs

Abstract: An implantable miniaturized imaging device can be attractive in many clinical applications. They include automated, periodic, high-resolution monitoring of susceptible organs for early detection of an anomalous growth. In this paper, we propose an implantable ultrasonic imager capable of online high-resolution imaging of a region inside the body. A feasibility analysis is presented, with respect to design of such a system and its application to online monitoring of tumor growth in deep internal organs. We use ultrasound (US) imaging technology, as it is safe, low-cost, can be easily miniaturized, and amenable for long-term, point-of-care (POC) monitoring. The design space of the proposed system has been explored including form factor, transducer specifications and power/energy requirements. We have analyzed the effectiveness of the system in timely detection of anomalous growth in a case study through software simulations using a widely-accepted ultrasonic platform (Field II). Finally, through experimental studies using medical grade phantoms and an ultrasound scanner, we have evaluated the system with respect to its major imaging characteristics. It is observed that interstitial imaging under area/power constraints would achieve significantly better imaging quality in terms of contrast sensitivity and spatial resolution than existing techniques in deep, internal body parts, while maintaining the automated monitoring advantages.

A preliminary report on a full-body imaging system for effectively collecting and processing biometric traits of prisoners

Abstract: Because of recent advances in imaging technology, the use of image-based evidences, such as faces and tattoos, is increasing dramatically. Face and tattoo images of prisoners are collected regularly for suspect image database establishment. New biometric traits such as skin marks, androgenic hairs, and blood vessels hidden in color images are getting more attention because they are shown to be useful for criminal and victim identification, especially when their faces and tattoos are neither observable nor available. The current manual approach of collecting images of prisoners is extremely time consuming and does not record these new biometric traits. To address this problem, an unprecedented full-body imaging system is developed. Furthermore, an automatic and systematic routine based on the system for effectively collecting prisoners' images is proposed. This paper concentrates on the system hardware design as well as its image collecting and processing capability. The system has been used to collect and process more than 30,000 infrared and color images from 188 subjects. Its performance is very encouraging.

Edge Detection and Level Set Active Contour Model for the Segmentation of Cavity Present in Dental X-Ray Images

Abstract: In the field of medical science, one of the oldest and frequently used techniques, for detecting fractures/defects in human bones is X-Ray. This is worth to do research on segmentation of X-Ray images and inventing the new techniques for the same. In this paper we used X-Ray Dental Images and Segmentation is done using Level Set Active Contour. Keywords Edge detection, image segmentation, digital dental (dd) x-ray image, level set active contour (lsac). 1. INTRODUCTION Medical imaging system has been widely used in various medical applications like orthopedic, ultra sound and many more. Medical imaging is a process used to capture the images of human body, for clinical purposes like diagnosis, anatomy, physiology etc. In its broadest sense; medical imaging can also be said as biological imaging. A number of imaging technologies such as X-ray radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, medical ultra-sonography(generally called as ultrasound), endoscopy, elastography, tactile imaging, thermography etc. that are used to detect the bone structures, organs, DNA structures, blood cells and tissues etc. Apart from imaging, other techniques for measuring and recording purpose such as electrocardiography, electroencephalography, magneto encephalography, records the data in the form of graphs or maps that contain information about measurement locations. These measuring techniques may not be designed to produce images but can be considered as forms of medical imaging. Clinical imaging is generally equated to radiology which uses invisible light spectrum such as gamma rays (used in positron emission tomography), X-rays (used in orthopedics to detect bone structures), ultraviolet rays (used in lasers, photo chemotherapy and phototherapy for the treatment of cancer). Various researches have been done to identify the cavities present in the image and following terms are widely used for that purpose: