Showing papers on "Imaging technology published in 2018"

An overview of the clinical applications of optical coherence tomography angiography.

Abstract: Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) has emerged as a novel, non-invasive imaging modality that allows the detailed study of flow within the vascular structures of the eye. Compared to conventional dye angiography, OCTA can produce more detailed, higher resolution images of the vasculature without the added risk of dye injection. In our review, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this new technology in comparison to conventional dye angiography. We provide an overview of the current OCTA technology available, compare the various commercial OCTA machines technical specifications and discuss some future software improvements. An approach to the interpretation of OCTA images by correlating images to other multimodal imaging with attention to identifying potential artefacts will be outlined and may be useful to ophthalmologists, particularly those who are currently still unfamiliar with this new technology. This review is based on a search of peer-reviewed published papers relevant to OCTA according to our current knowledge, up to January 2017, available on the PubMed database. Currently, many of the published studies have focused on OCTA imaging of the retina, in particular, the use of OCTA in the diagnosis and management of common retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retinal vascular diseases. In addition, we describe clinical applications for OCTA imaging in inflammatory diseases, optic nerve diseases and anterior segment diseases. This review is based on both the current literature and the clinical experience of our individual authors, with an emphasis on the clinical applications of this imaging technology.

Light Emitting Diodes based Photoacoustic Imaging and Potential Clinical Applications.

Abstract: Using low cost and small size light emitting diodes (LED) as the alternative illumination source for photoacoustic (PA) imaging has many advantages, and can largely benefit the clinical translation of the emerging PA imaging technology. Here, we present our development of LED-based PA imaging integrated with B-mode ultrasound. To overcome the challenge of achieving sufficient signal-to-noise ratio by the LED light that is orders of magnitude weaker than lasers, extensive signal averaging over hundreds of pulses is performed. Facilitated by the fast response of the LED and the high-speed driving as well as the high pulse repetition rate up to 16 kHz, B-mode PA images superimposed on gray-scale ultrasound of a biological sample can be achieved in real-time with frame rate up to 500 Hz. The LED-based PA imaging could be a promising tool for several clinical applications, such as assessment of peripheral microvascular function and dynamic changes, diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis, and detection of head and neck cancer.

HEXITEC: A High-Energy X-ray Spectroscopic Imaging Detector for Synchrotron Applications

Abstract: Over the last decade, the High-Energy X-ray Imaging Technology (HEXITEC) detector system for spectroscopic imaging of hard X-rays and γ-rays has been developed by the Science & Technology Facilitie...

An update on carbon nanotube-enabled X-ray sources for biomedical imaging.

Abstract: A new imaging technology has emerged that uses carbon nanotubes (CNT) as the electron emitter (cathode) for the X-ray tube. Since the performance of the CNT cathode is controlled by simple voltage manipulation, CNT-enabled X-ray sources are ideal for the repetitive imaging steps needed to capture three-dimensional information. As such, they have allowed the development of a gated micro-computed tomography (CT) scanner for small animal research as well as stationary tomosynthesis, an experimental technology for large field-of-view human imaging. The small animal CT can acquire images at specific points in the respiratory and cardiac cycles. Longitudinal imaging therefore becomes possible and has been applied to many research questions, ranging from tumor response to the noninvasive assessment of cardiac output. Digital tomosynthesis (DT) is a low-dose and low-cost human imaging tool that captures some depth information. Known as three-dimensional mammography, DT is now used clinically for breast imaging. However, the resolution of currently-approved DT is limited by the need to swing the X-ray source through space to collect a series of projection views. An array of fixed and distributed CNT-enabled sources provides the solution and has been used to construct stationary DT devices for breast, lung, and dental imaging. To date, over 100 patients have been imaged on Institutional Review Board-approved study protocols. Early experience is promising, showing an excellent conspicuity of soft-tissue features, while also highlighting technical and post-acquisition processing limitations that are guiding continued research and development. Additionally, CNT-enabled sources are being tested in miniature X-ray tubes that are capable of generating adequate photon energies and tube currents for clinical imaging. Although there are many potential applications for these small field-of-view devices, initial experience has been with an X-ray source that can be inserted into the mouth for dental imaging. Conceived less than 20 years ago, CNT-enabled X-ray sources are now being manufactured on a commercial scale and are powering both research tools and experimental human imaging devices. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2018, 10:e1475. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1475 This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging.

Prospects for Theranostics in Neurosurgical Imaging: Empowering Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy Diagnostics via Deep Learning.

Abstract: Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) is an advanced optical fluorescence imaging technology that has potential to increase intraoperative precision, extend resection, and tailor surgery for malignant invasive brain tumors because of its subcellular dimension resolution. Despite its promising diagnostic potential, interpreting the gray tone fluorescence images can be difficult for untrained users. CLE images can be distorted by motion artifacts, fluorescence signals out of detector dynamic range, or may be obscured by red blood cells, and thus interpreted as nondiagnostic (ND). However, just a single CLE image with a detectable pathognomonic histological tissue signature can suffice for intraoperative diagnosis. Dealing with the abundance of images from CLE is not unlike sifting through a myriad of genes, proteins, or other structural or metabolic markers to find something of commonality or uniqueness in cancer that might indicate a potential treatment scheme or target. In this review, we provide a detailed description of bioinformatical analysis methodology of CLE images that begins to assist the neurosurgeon and pathologist to rapidly connect on-the-fly intraoperative imaging, pathology, and surgical observation into a conclusionary system within the concept of theranostics. We present an overview and discuss deep learning models for automatic detection of the diagnostic CLE images and discuss various training regimes and ensemble modeling effect on power of deep learning predictive models. Two major approaches reviewed in this paper include the models that can automatically classify CLE images into diagnostic/ND, glioma/nonglioma, tumor/injury/normal categories, and models that can localize histological features on the CLE images using weakly supervised methods. We also briefly review advances in the deep learning approaches used for CLE image analysis in other organs. Significant advances in speed and precision of automated diagnostic frame selection would augment the diagnostic potential of CLE, improve operative workflow, and integration into brain tumor surgery. Such technology and bioinformatics analytics lend themselves to improved precision, personalization, and theranostics in brain tumor treatment.

Novel Photoacoustic Microscopy and Optical Coherence Tomography Dual-modality Chorioretinal Imaging in Living Rabbit Eyes.

Abstract: Photoacoustic ocular imaging is an emerging ophthalmic imaging technology that can noninvasively visualize ocular tissue by converting light energy into sound waves and is currently under intensive investigation However, most reported work to date is focused on the imaging of the posterior segment of the eyes of small animals, such as rats and mice, which poses challenges for clinical human translation due to small eyeball sizes This manuscript describes a novel photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) dual-modality system for posterior segment imaging of the eyes of larger animals, such as rabbits The system configuration, system alignment, animal preparation, and dual-modality experimental protocols for in vivo, noninvasive, label-free chorioretinal imaging in rabbits are detailed The effectiveness of the method is demonstrated through representative experimental results, including retinal and choroidal vasculature obtained by the PAM and OCT This manuscript provides a practical guide to reproducing the imaging results in rabbits and advancing photoacoustic ocular imaging in larger animals

Fluorescence-guided surgery and intervention — An AAPM emerging technology blue paper

Abstract: Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) and other interventions are rapidly evolving as a class of technologically driven interventional approaches in which many surgical specialties visualize fluorescent molecular tracers or biomarkers through associated cameras or oculars to guide clinical decisions on pathological lesion detection and excision/ablation. The technology has been commercialized for some specific applications, but also presents technical challenges unique to optical imaging that could confound the utility of some interventional procedures where real-time decisions must be made. Accordingly, the AAPM has initiated the publication of this Blue Paper of The Emerging Technology Working Group (TETAWG) and the creation of a Task Group from the Therapy Physics Committee within the Treatment Delivery Subcommittee. In describing the relevant issues, this document outlines the key parameters, stakeholders, impacts, and outcomes of clinical FGS technology and its applications. The presentation is not intended to be conclusive, but rather to inform the field of medical physics and stimulate the discussions needed in the field with respect to a seemingly low-risk imaging technology that has high potential for significant therapeutic impact. This AAPM Task Group is working toward consensus around guidelines and standards for advancing the field safely and effectively.

A comprehensive review of denoising techniques for abdominal CT images

Abstract: Computed Tomography (CT) is one of the effective imaging modality in medical sciences that assist in diagnosing various pathologies inside the human body. Despite considerable advancement in acquisition speed, signal to noise ratio and image resolution of computed tomography imaging technology, CT images are still affected by noise and artifacts. A tradeoff between the amount of noise reduced and conservation of genuine image details has to be made in such a way that it enhances the clinically relevant image content. Therefore, noise reduction in medical images is an important and challenging task, as it helps to improve the performance of other image processing procedures such as segmentation or classification to perform better diagnosis by clinicians. Different techniques have been suggested in the literature on denoising of CT images, and each technique has its own presumptions, benefits, and drawbacks. To the best of our knowledge, no survey paper was found in the literature that compares the performance of various denoising techniques for CT images. This study aims to compare the capabilities of several notable and contemporary denoising techniques in the presence of different types of noise present in abdominal CT images. This comparative analysis helps to determine the most suitable denoising technique for practitioners and researchers that can be used in real life scenarios. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of considered denoising methods have also been discussed along with some recommendations for further research in this area.

Three-Dimensional Imaging in Orthodontics.

Abstract: Orthodontic records are one of the main milestones in orthodontic therapy Records are essential not only for diagnosis and treatment planning but also for follow-up of the case, communicating with colleagues, and evaluating the treatment outcomes Recently, two-dimensional (2D) imaging technology, such as cephalometric and panoramic radiographs and photographs, and plaster models were routinely used However, after the introduction of three-dimensional (3D) technologies (laser scanner, stereophotogrammetry, and computed tomography) into dentistry, 3D imaging systems are more and more commonly preferred than 2D, especially in cases with craniofacial deformities In fact, 3D imaging provided more detailed and realistic diagnostic information about the craniofacial hard as well as soft tissue and allowed to perform easier, faster, and more reliable 3D analyses The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the 3D imaging techniques, including their advantages and disadvantages, and to outline the indications for 3D imaging

High-Resolution X-Ray Phase-Contrast 3-D Imaging of Breast Tissue Specimens as a Possible Adjunct to Histopathology

Abstract: Histopathological analysis is the current gold standard in breast cancer diagnosis and management, however, as imaging technology improves, the amount of potential diagnostic information that may be demonstrable radiologically should also increase. We aimed to evaluate the potential clinical usefulness of 3-D phase-contrast micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging at high spatial resolutions as an adjunct to conventional histological microscopy. Ten breast tissue specimens, 2 mm in diameter, were scanned at the SYRMEP beamline of the Elettra Synchrotron using the propagation-based phase-contrast micro-tomography method. We obtained $1.2~\mu \text{m}$ pixel size images, which were analyzed and compared with corresponding histological sections examined under light microscopy. To evaluate the effect of spatial resolution on breast cancer diagnosis, scans with four different pixel sizes were also performed. Our comparative analysis revealed that high-resolution images can enable, at a near-histological level, detailed architectural assessment of tissue that may permit increased breast cancer diagnostic sensitivity and specificity when compared with current imaging practices. The potential clinical applications of this method are also discussed.

Photoacoustic Ophthalmoscopy: Principle, Application, and Future Directions

Abstract: Photoacoustic ophthalmoscopy (PAOM) is a novel, hybrid, non-ionizing, and non-invasive imaging technology that has been used to assess the retina. PAOM can provide both anatomic and functional retinal characterizations with high resolution, high sensitivity, high contrast, and a high depth of penetration. Thus, ocular diseases can be precisely detected and visualized at earlier stages, resulting in an improved understanding of pathophysiology, improved management, and the improved monitoring of retinal treatment to prevent vision loss. To better visualize ocular components such as retinal vessels, choroidal vessels, choroidal neovascularization, retinal neovascularization, and the retinal pigment epithelium, an advanced multimodal ocular imaging platform has been developed by a combination of PAOM with other optical imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), and fluorescence microscopy. The multimodal images can be acquired from a single imaging system and co-registered on the same image plane, enabling an improved evaluation of disease. In this review, the potential application of photoacoustic ophthalmoscopy in both research and clinical diagnosis are discussed as a medical screening technique for the visualization of various ocular diseases. The basic principle and requirements of photoacoustic ocular imaging are introduced. Then, various photoacoustic microscopy imaging systems of the retina in animals are presented. Finally, the future development of PAOM and multimodal imaging is discussed.

Fluorescence molecular imaging systems for intraoperative image-guided surgery

Abstract: Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic technology of human diseases, cancer remains among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The development of molecular imaging has made it possible to diagnose and treat cancer at early stages, which increases the likelihood of survival. Nuclear medicine has played a key role in diagnosis and staging of human malignancy. However, most imaging technology can only be used in the preoperative diagnosis stage, and these methods are time consuming and often expose patients to a high amount of radiation. Combined with appropriate contrast agents, fluorescence molecular imaging is an easy-to-use imaging tool that can be implemented for intraoperative cancer surgery to delineate tumor margins. In particular, near-infrared fluorescence is useful for image-guided cancer surgery because of the relatively high tissue penetration, low tissue absorption and scattering, and reduced autofluorescence. In this review, the basic principles of fluoresce...

Review of quantitative multiscale imaging of breast cancer.

Abstract: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and ranks second in terms of overall cancer deaths. One of the difficulties associated with treating breast cancer is that it is a heterogeneous disease with variations in benign and pathologic tissue composition, which contributes to disease development, progression, and treatment response. Many of these phenotypes are uncharacterized and their presence is difficult to detect, in part due to the sparsity of methods to correlate information between the cellular microscale and the whole-breast macroscale. Quantitative multiscale imaging of the breast is an emerging field concerned with the development of imaging technology that can characterize anatomic, functional, and molecular information across different resolutions and fields of view. It involves a diverse collection of imaging modalities, which touch large sections of the breast imaging research community. Prospective studies have shown promising results, but there are several challenges, ranging from basic physics and engineering to data processing and quantification, that must be met to bring the field to maturity. This paper presents some of the challenges that investigators face, reviews currently used multiscale imaging methods for preclinical imaging, and discusses the potential of these methods for clinical breast imaging.

Advancements in imaging technology for microvascular free tissue transfer.

Abstract: The use of preoperative imaging has become routine for many reconstructive microsurgeons to help localize perforators for planning of microvascular free flaps. However, with advancements in imaging technology, perforator mapping represents only one potential benefit as virtual planning and medical modeling, and flap tissue perfusion are also rapidly becoming commonplace and the standard of care for many surgeons who perform high-volume free flap reconstruction for the breast, head and neck, torso, and the extremities.

3D Imaging in Construction and Infrastructure Management: Technological Assessment and Future Research Directions

Abstract: With rapid developments in 3D imaging technology, as well as the evolving need in Architecture/Engineering/Construction/Facility Management (AEC/FM) industry to understand various field aspects from a 3D perspective, several technologies, such as laser scanning, camera and RGBD camera, are becoming important components of civil engineers’ and architects’ toolbox. With improvements in efficiency and reduction in operational cost, new avenues are opening in leveraging 3D imaging sensors for construction and infrastructure management. In the light of this, there is a need to assess the achievements to date, especially with respect to unique challenging use case scenarios and requirements that construction and infrastructure management domains provide, and consequently identify potential research challenges that still need to be tackled. This paper targets doing such an assessment around several challenges faced when using 3D imaging to support construction and infrastructure management. It specifically discusses to what extent these challenges have been addressed and several approaches that are used in addressing them. It also presents current 3D imaging development trends and discusses briefly some challenges that are emerging due to increased application of 3D imaging techniques to highlight future research needs in this domain.

High-Frequency Micro-Ultrasound Imaging and Optical Topographic Imaging for Spinal Surgery: Initial Experiences.

Abstract: High frequency micro-ultrasound (µUS) transducers with central frequencies up to 50 MHz facilitate dynamic visualization of patient anatomy with minimal disruption of the surgical work flow. Micro-ultrasound improves spatial resolution over conventional ultrasound imaging from millimeter to micrometer, but compromises depth penetration. This trade-off is sufficient during an open surgery in which the bone is removed and theultrasound probe can be placed into the surgical cavity. By fusing µUS with pre-operative imaging and tracking the ultrasound probe intra-operatively using our optical topographic imaging technology, we can provide dynamic feedback during surgery, thus affecting clinical decision making. We present our initial experience using high-frequency µUS imaging during spinal procedures. Micro-ultrasound images were obtained in five spinal procedures. Medical rationale for use of µUS was provided for each patient. Surgical procedures were performed using the standard clinical practice with bone removal to facilitate real-time ultrasound imaging of the soft tissue. During surgery, the µUS probe was registered to the pre-operative computed tomography and magnetic resonance images. Images obtained comprised five spinal decompression surgeries (four tumor resections, one cystic synovial mass). Micro-ultrasound images obtained during spine surgery delineated exquisite detailing of the spinal anatomy including white matter and gray matter tracts and nerve roots and allowed accurate assessment of the extent of decompression/tumor resection. In conclusion, tracked µUS enables real-time imaging of the surgical cavity, conferring significant qualitative improvement over conventional ultrasound.

Design and Implementation Guidelines for a Modular Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Scanner

Abstract: In the past decades, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) has transformed into a widely popular imaging technology which is used in many research and clinical applications. Despite such fast growth in the field, the technology has not been readily accessible to many research laboratories either due to the cost or inflexibility of the commercially available systems or due to the lack of essential knowledge in the field of optics to develop custom-made scanners that suit specific applications. This paper aims to provide a detailed discussion on the design and development process of a typical SD-OCT scanner. The effects of multiple design parameters, for the main optical and optomechanical components, on the overall performance of the imaging system are analyzed and discussions are provided to serve as a guideline for the development of a custom SD-OCT system. While this article can be generalized for different applications, we will demonstrate the design of a SD-OCT system and representative results for in vivo brain imaging. We explain procedures to measure the axial and transversal resolutions and field of view of the system and to understand the discrepancies between the experimental and theoretical values. The specific aim of this piece is to facilitate the process of constructing custom-made SD-OCT scanners for research groups with minimum understanding of concepts in optical design and medical imaging.

The evolution of three-dimensional technology in musculoskeletal oncology.

Abstract: Musculoskeletal tumours pose considerable challenges for the orthopaedic surgeon during pre-operative planning, resection and reconstruction. Improvements in imaging technology have improved the diagnostic process of these tumours. Despite this, studies have highlighted the difficulties in achieving consistent resection free margins especially in tumours of the pelvis and spine when using conventional methods. Three-dimensional technology - three-dimensional printing and navigation technology - while relatively new, may have the potential to prove useful in the musculoskeletal tumour surgeon's arsenal. Three-dimensional printing (3DP) allows the production of objects by adding material layer by layer rather than subtraction from raw materials as performed conventionally. High resolution imaging, computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are used to print highly complex and accurate items. Powder-based printing, vat polymerization-based printing and droplet-based printing are the common 3DP technologies applied. 3DP has been utilized pre-operatively in surgical planning and intra-operatively for patient specific instruments and custom made prosthesis. Pre-operative 3DP models transfer information to the surgeon in a concise yet exhaustive manner. Patient specific instruments are customized 3DP instruments utilized with the intention to easily replicate surgical plans. Complex musculoskeletal tumours pose reconstructive challenges and standard implants are often unable to reconstruct defects satisfactorily. The ability to use custom materials and tailor the pore size, elastic modulus and porosity of the 3DP prosthesis to be comparable to the patient's bone allows for a potential patient-specific prosthesis with unique incorporation and longevity properties. Similarly, navigation technology utilizes CT or MRI images to provides surgeons with real time intraoperative three-dimensional calibration of instruments. It has been shown to potentially allow surgeons to perform more accurate resections. These technological advancements have the potential to greatly impact the management of musculoskeletal tumours. 3D planning models, patient-specific instruments and customized 3DP implants and navigation should not be thought of as separate, but rather, patient-specific adaptation of relevant modes of application should be selected on a case-by-case basis when taking all unique factors of each case into consideration.

Enhancement approach for liver lesion diagnosis using unenhanced CT images

Abstract: Hepatocellular carcinoma, the primary liver cancer and other liver-related pathologies are diagnosed with the help of contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) images. The CECT imaging technology is claimed to be an invasive technique, as the intravenous contrast agent injected prior to computed tomography (CT) acquisition is harmful and is not advised for patients with pre-existing diabetes and kidney disorders. This study presents a novel enhancement technique for the diagnosis of liver lesions from unenhanced CT images by means of fuzzy histogram equalisation in the non-sub-sampled contourlet transform domain followed by decorrelation stretching. The enhanced images obtained in this study substantiate that the proposed method improves the diagnostic value from the unenhanced CT images thereby providing an alternate painless solution for CT acquisition for the subset of patients mentioned above. Another major highlight of this work is the characterisation of lesions from the enhanced output for five different classes of pathology. The obtained results presented in this study demonstrate the potency of the proposed enhancement technique in achieving an appreciable performance in lesion characterisation. The images used for this research study have been obtained from Jawaharlal Institute of Medical Education and Research Puducherry, India.

Novel Imaging Modalities for Human Embryology and Applications in Education.

Abstract: Advances in imaging technology and development have recently enabled high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) imaging of embryos and fetuses. Embryos and fetuses stored at the Congenital Anomaly Research Center (Kyoto Collection of Human Embryos, Kyoto, Japan) were imaged using multiple modalities including magnetic resonance imaging, episcopic fluorescence image capture, and X-ray computed tomography, both in absorption and phase-contrasted configurations. Using the acquired images, 3D computer graphics were generated and a movie was created to gain further insight into understanding the developmental process. For educational purposes, self-learning materials were also produced. The present review article briefly discusses each project and the results of imaging studies performed using specimens from the Kyoto Collection of Human Embryos. Anat Rec, 301:1004-1011, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ion image sensors and their application for visualization of neural activity

Abstract: One of the merits of fusing LSI technology with sensor technology is arraying The LSI sensor technology can array more than 1000 devices, enabling it to be used as a tool for visualization Among the five senses of human beings, the eyes provide about 80% By visualizing a phenomenon, it is easy to understand it intuitively The fusion of sensor technology with LSI technology is changing the role of sensors from "tools for measurement" to "tools for understanding" In the biomedical field, imaging technology has become important for understanding information obtained from organic activity Solid-state-type bio image sensors fusing biosensor technology with CMOS technology are attractive devices for use as bio/chemical imaging tools, because an optical image sensor combining photodiodes and CMOS readout circuits can be fabricated with state-of-the art technology CMOS-based bio-image sensors have the potential to acquire the local distribution of neurotransmitters, ions, and chemical species in a solution and organic matter without optical labels

Why Physics in Medicine

Abstract: Despite its crucial role in the development of new medical imaging technologies, in clinical practice, physics has primarily been involved in the technical evaluation of technologies. However, this narrow role is no longer adequate. New trajectories in medicine call for a stronger role for physics in the clinic. The movement toward evidence-based, quantitative, and value-based medicine requires physicists to play a more integral role in delivering innovative precision care through the intentional clinical application of physical sciences. There are three aspects of this clinical role: technology assessment based on metrics as they relate to expected clinical performance, optimized use of technologies for patient-centered clinical outcomes, and retrospective analysis of imaging operations to ensure attainment of expectations in terms of quality and variability. These tasks fuel the drive toward high-quality, consistent practice of medical imaging that is patient centered, evidence based, and safe. While this particular article focuses on imaging, this trajectory and paradigm is equally applicable to the multitudes of the applications of physics in medicine.

Automatical and accurate segmentation of cerebral tissues in fMRI dataset with combination of image processing and deep learning

Abstract: Image segmentation plays an important role in medical science. One application is multimodality imaging, especially the fusion of structural imaging with functional imaging, which includes CT, MRI and new types of imaging technology such as optical imaging to obtain functional images. The fusion process require precisely extracted structural information, in order to register the image to it. Here we used image enhancement, morphometry methods to extract the accurate contours of different tissues such as skull, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) on 5 fMRI head image datasets. Then we utilized convolutional neural network to realize automatic segmentation of images in deep learning way. Such approach greatly reduced the processing time compared to manual and semi-automatic segmentation and is of great importance in improving speed and accuracy as more and more samples being learned. The contours of the borders of different tissues on all images were accurately extracted and 3D visualized. This can be used in low-level light therapy and optical simulation software such as MCVM. We obtained a precise three-dimensional distribution of brain, which offered doctors and researchers quantitative volume data and detailed morphological characterization for personal precise medicine of Cerebral atrophy/expansion. We hope this technique can bring convenience to visualization medical and personalized medicine.

Photoacoustic Imaging: Principles and Applications

Abstract: Photoacoustic (PA) imaging is an emerging imaging technology with potential for preclinical biomedical research and clinical applications. PA imaging, which relies on the generation of broadband acoustic waves via the absorption of intensity-modulated light in tissue, offers the combination of strong optical contrast and high spatial resolution provided by ultrasound. For excitation wavelengths in the visible and near-infrared region, image contrast is predominately due to haemoglobin. Exogenous contrast agents, such as dyes or genetically expressed absorbers, can be used to obtain targeted molecular contrast. Over the past decade, PA imaging has rapidly evolved into different microscopy and tomography modalities, while novel methodologies have led to a variety of exciting applications. This chapter explains the basic principles of PA imaging, its implementation in the different modalities and provides examples of applications to morphological, functional and molecular imaging. Furthermore, the challenge of recovering quantitative information from PA image data sets is described.

Adoption of high technology medical imaging and hospital quality and efficiency: Towards a conceptual framework.

Abstract: Measuring the value of medical imaging is challenging, in part, due to the lack of conceptual frameworks underlying potential mechanisms where value may be assessed. To address this gap, this article proposes a framework that builds on the large body of literature on quality of hospital care and the classic structure-process-outcome paradigm. The framework was also informed by the literature on adoption of technological innovations and introduces 2 distinct though related aspects of imaging technology not previously addressed specifically in the literature on quality of hospital care: adoption (a structural hospital characteristic) and use (an attribute of the process of care). The framework hypothesizes a 2-part causality where adoption is proposed to be a central, linking factor between hospital structural characteristics, market factors, and hospital outcomes (ie, quality and efficiency). The first part indicates that hospital structural characteristics and market factors influence or facilitate the adoption of high technology medical imaging within an institution. The presence of this technology, in turn, is hypothesized to improve the ability of the hospital to deliver high quality and efficient care. The second part describes this ability throughout 3 main mechanisms pointing to the importance of imaging use on patients, to the presence of staff and qualified care providers, and to some elements of organizational capacity capturing an enhanced clinical environment. The framework has the potential to assist empirical investigations of the value of adoption and use of medical imaging, and to advance understanding of the mechanisms that produce quality and efficiency in hospitals.

Copy-Move Image Forgery Detection Using Redundant Keypoint Elimination Method

Abstract: The development of image processing and image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop®, and Photo Editor has caused created image forgery, and these images ultimately cause limitations in the information security system. This chapter presents a method that has a high accuracy in detecting forged areas, while reviewing the methods of copy-move forgery detection. Many methods are used for forgery detection in digital images, which, in general, can be divided into two active and passive methods. The format-based methods are another type of forgery detection method. The main task of these techniques is based on the Joint Photographic Experts Group image format. Digital images may be obtained from various imaging devices such as various cameras, scanners, and computer graphics imaging technology. Matching is the process of determining the correspondence between two or more features in images. The matching techniques for block-based methods can be divided into three categories: sorting, correlation, and Euclidean distance.