The sixteen chapters included in this book were written by invited experts of international recognition and address important issues in Medical Image Processing and Computational Vision, including: Object Recognition, Object Detection, Object Tracking, Pose Estimation, Facial Expression Recognition, Image Retrieval, Data Mining, Automatic Video Understanding and Management, Edges Detection, Image Segmentation, Modelling and Simulation, Medical thermography, Database Systems, Synthetic Aperture Radar and Satellite Imagery.

Different applications are addressed and described throughout the book, comprising: Object Recognition and Tracking, Facial Expression Recognition, Image Database, Plant Disease Classification, Video Understanding and Management, Image Processing, Image Segmentation, Bio-structure Modelling and Simulation, Medical Imaging, Image Classification, Medical Diagnosis, Urban Areas Classification, Land Map Generation.

The book brings together the current state-of-the-art in the various multi-disciplinary solutions for Medical Image Processing and Computational Vision, including research, techniques, applications and new trends contributing to the development of the related areas.

MRI has become an important tool in the management of patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as rectal cancer and inflammatory bowel diseases. This book, written by distinguished experts in the field, discusses in detail the technical, practical, and clinical aspects of MRI of the gastrointestinal tract. The chapters on technique encompass the most recent developments and address such topics as contrast media, high field strength MRI, and perfusion MRI. Subsequently, individual chapters are devoted to the clinical applications of MRI in the different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Both established applications and new frontiers are considered, with the aid of numerous high-quality illustrations. By combining chapters dedicated to technical aspects and clinically oriented chapters, this book will prove very instructive for the novice while simultaneously offering experienced practitioners further insights into the value of MRI of the gastrointestinal tract.

Cardiac ultrasound has rapidly developed into one of the most important clinical methods for diagnosis and follow-up of patients with heart disease and has changed the practice of cardiology permanently. In addition to improving image quality, most of the progress relies on digital image acquisition, storage, and quantitative analysis equipment. Automatic endocardial detection and three- dimensional reconstruction are now being developed. The progress with contrast echocardiography for myocardial perfusion imaging and results with tissue characterization is slow, but ever increasing, illustrating that the full potential of the method has not yet been explored. All of these digital techniques are extensively dealt with in this volume. Computerized tools will help the clinical cardiologists in their daily practice and stimulate further development to gen- uinely improve patient care in the coming years. We wish to thank the authors to this volume for their excellent contribution and Mrs. T. van der Kolk for secretarial assistance. IX Contributors F. J. ten Cate Thorax Center, Erasmus University, P. O. Box 1738, 3000 DR Rotterdam, The Netherlands R. Erbel II Medical Clinic, Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, P. O. Box 3960, D-6500 Mainz, FRG Co-authors: R. Zotz, B. Henkel, G. Schreiner, C. Steuernagel, R. Zahn, H. Kopp, W. Clas, R. Brennecke, P. Schweizer, J. Meyer S. B. Feinstein Division of Cardiology, Box 44, University of Chicago, 950 East 59th Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA D. G. Gibson Department of Cardiology, Brompton Hospital, Fulham Road, London SW3 6HP, UK Co-author: R. B. Logan Sinclair E.

This book covers new techniques in protein NMR, from basic principles to state-of-the-art research. It covers a spectrum of topics ranging from a "toolbox" for how sequence-specific resonance assignments can be obtained using a suite of 2D and 3D NMR experiments and tips on how overlap problems can be overcome. Further topics include the novel applications of Overhauser dynamic nuclear polarization methods (DNP), assessing protein structure, and aspects of solid-state NMR of macroscopically aligned membrane proteins. This book is an ideal resource for students and researchers in the fields of biochemistry, chemistry, and pharmacology and NMR physics. Comprehensive and intuitively structured, this book examines protein NMR and new novel applications that include the latest technological advances. This book also has the features of: * A selection of various applications and cutting-edge advances, such as novel applications of Overhauser dynamic nuclear polarization methods (DNP) and a suite of 2D and 3D NMR experiments and tips on how overlap problems can be overcome * A pedagogical approach to the methodology * Engaging the reader and student with a clear, yet critical presentation of the applications

The FRCR examination was recently changed and now comprises two modules: physics and radiological anatomy. The anatomy module is new, and consists of 20 radiological images, with 5 questions on each image, 100 questions in all. The anatomy examination lasts for 75 minutes and incorporates 20 separate images (cases) with 5 questions per case, producing a total of 100 questions. The cases will be presented at computer work-stations, with separate written answer sheets for completion. In this book we present 5 complete `mock' anatomy examinations, with a total of 500 questions. We have stayed true to the lay out of the RCR sample questions and answer sheets to ensure familiarity. The anatomical structures should not be ambiguous and, if necessary, there will be more than one arrow to indicate the appropriate structure (a concept that has been included in some of the example questions in this book). As a rule, the candidate should make an attempt to answer ALL questions in the exam as there is no negative marking. It is advised that answers be as complete as possible, for instance the use of `left' or `right' if this can be derived from the image, or rather than simply stating `acromion', use the `acromion process of the scapula' - if you have the knowledge, use it! This book should not be used as a primary revision tool, rather a practice aid to test the candidate against the clock in exam conditions and highlight any areas of weakness or imaging examinations that the candidate may be unfamiliar with. Primary revision is suggested by using traditional anatomy alongside radiology-based anatomy textbooks. It is also necessary to experience everyday radiological investigations, and even more specialist investigations, as essentially any type of radiological image can be used for assessment of anatomical knowledge in this examination. The authors provide explanatory answers, and have also included extra images to accompany their explanations. In addition there are references to key revision resources, and they have also given advice on exam technique. They have first hand experience of running courses on the new format FRCR anatomy exam, and are therefore the perfect authors for the subject. Key Points 100% relevant to the new format Authors run FRCR Part 1 courses 500 questions

This book constitutes the Proceedings of the 26th Symposium on Acoustical Imaging held inWindsor, Ontario, Canada during September 9-12, 2001. This traditional scientific event is recognized as a premier forum for the presentation of advanced research results in both theoretical and experimental development. The lAIS was conceived at a 1967Acoustical Holography meeting in the USA. Since then, these traditional symposia provide an opportunity for specialists who are working in this area to make new acquaintances, renew old friendships and present recent results of their research. Our Symposium has grown significantly in size due to a broad interest in various topics and to the quality of the presentations. For the firsttime in 40 years, the IAIS was held in the province of Ontario in Windsor, Canada's Automotive Capital and City of Roses. The 26th IAIS attracted over 100specialists from 13countries representing this interdisciplinary field in physical acoustics, image processing, applied mathematics, solid-state physics, biology and medicine, industrial applications and quality control technologies. The 26th lAIS was organized in the traditional way with only one addition-a Special Session "History of Acoustical Imaging" with the involvement of such well known scientists as Andrew Briggs, Noriyoshi Chubachi, Robert Green Jr., Joie Jones, Kenneth Erikson, and Bernhard Tittmann. Many of these speakers are well known scientists in their fields and we would like to thank them for making this session extremely successful.

Unraveling the functional properties of structural elements in the brain is one of the fundamental goals of neuroscientific research. In the cerebral cortex this is no mean feat, since cortical areas are defined microstructurally in post-mortem brains but functionally in living brains with electrophysiological or neuroimaging techniques - and cortical areas vary in their topographical properties across individual brains. Being able to map both microstructure and function in the same brains noninvasively in vivo would represent a huge leap forward. In recent years, high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies with spatial resolution below 0.5 mm have set the stage for this by detecting structural differences within the human cerebral cortex, beyond the Stria of Gennari. This provides the basis for an in vivo microanatomical brain map, with the enormous potential to make direct correlations between microstructure and function in living human brains. This book starts with Brodmann's post-mortem map published in the early 20th century, moves on to the almost forgotten microstructural maps of von Economo and Koskinas and the Vogt-Vogt school, sheds some light on more recent approaches that aim at mapping cortical areas noninvasively in living human brains, and culminates with the concept of "in vivo Brodmann mapping" using high-field MRI, which was introduced in the early 21st century.

Computed Tomography gives a detailed overview of various aspects of computed tomography. It discusses X-ray CT tomography from a historical point of view, the design and physical operating principles of computed tomography apparatus, the algorithms of image reconstruction and the quality assessment criteria of tomography scanners. Algorithms of image reconstruction from projections, a crucial problem in medical imaging, are considered in depth. The author gives descriptions of the reconstruction methods related to tomography scanners with a parallel X-ray beam, trough solutions with fan-shaped beam and successive modifications of spiral scanners. Computed Tomography contains a dedicated chapter for those readers who are interested in computer simulations based on studies of reconstruction algorithms. The information included in this chapter will enable readers to create a simulation environment in which virtual tomography projections can be obtained in all basic projection systems. This monograph is a valuable study on computed tomography that will be of interest to advanced students and researchers in the fields of biomedical engineering, medical electronics, computer science and medicine.

This introduction to medical imaging introduces all of the major medical imaging techniques in wide use in both medical practice and medical research, including Computed Tomography, Ultrasound, Positron Emission Tomography, Single Photon Emission Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Principles of Medical Imaging for Engineers introduces fundamental concepts related to why we image and what we are seeking to achieve to get good images, such as the meaning of 'contrast' in the context of medical imaging. This introductory text separates the principles by which 'signals' are generated and the subsequent 'reconstruction' processes, to help illustrate that these are separate concepts and also highlight areas in which apparently different medical imaging methods share common theoretical principles. Exercises are provided in every chapter, so the student reader can test their knowledge and check against worked solutions and examples. The text considers firstly the underlying physical principles by which information about tissues within the body can be extracted in the form of signals, considering the major principles used: transmission, reflection, emission and resonance. Then, it goes on to explain how these signals can be converted into images, i.e., full 3D volumes, where appropriate showing how common methods of 'reconstruction' are shared by some imaging methods despite relying on different physics to generate the 'signals'. Finally, it examines how medical imaging can be used to generate more than just pictures, but genuine quantitative measurements, and increasingly measurements of physiological processes, at every point within the 3D volume by methods such as the use of tracers and advanced dynamic acquisitions. Principles of Medical Imaging for Engineers will be of use to engineering and physical science students and graduate students with an interest in biomedical engineering, and to their lecturers.

For the last half of the 20th century cobalt-60 units were the mainstay of radiation treatments for cancer. This book describes the development of the first cobalt -60 unit in the United States and the man behind it, Leonard Grimmett. Conceptually conceived before World War II it only became possible because of the development of nuclear reactors during the war. The initial idea was to replace the radium in the contemporary units of the time with cobalt-60, but with the realization that the reactors could produce much more cobalt-60 than originally thought the design of the cobalt-60 unit was drastically changed to take advantage that the application of the inverse square law to cancer radiation treatments would make.
Although Grimmett conceived of and published his ideas first, the Canadians built the first units because of the capability of their reactor to produce more suitable cobalt-60 sources.
The story tells how Grimmett and the other people involved came together at the time that the U S Atomic Energy Agency was pushing the use of radioactivity in medicine. But Grimmett died suddenly before his unit could be built and very little information about him was known until recently when various documents have come to light, allowing the full story to be told.

This book focuses on the processing, materials design, characterisation, and properties of polymer composites and nanocomposites for use as electromagnetic radiation shielding materials and to enhance radiation shielding capacity in order to meet the safety requirements for use in medical X-ray imaging facilities. It presents an in-depth analysis of materials synthesis methods such as melt-mixing, ion-implantation, solution casting and electrospinning. In addition, it measures the X-ray attenuation behaviour of fabricated composites and nanocomposites in four major types of X-ray equipment, namely general radiography, mammography, X-ray absorption spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy units. Given its scope, the book will benefit researchers, engineers, scientists and practitioners in the fields of medical imaging, diagnostic radiology and radiation therapy.

Proceedings of a workshop sponsored by the European Community and organized in Brussels, Belgium, October 1988 by the U. of Louvain Medical School, discuss problems related to the study of receptors and energy metabolism, particularly in relationship with the compartmental analysis and the modelling

This is a practical guide to tomographic image reconstruction with projection data, with strong focus on Computed Tomography (CT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET). Classic methods such as FBP, ART, SIRT, MLEM and OSEM are presented with modern and compact notation, with the main goal of guiding the reader from the comprehension of the mathematical background through a fast-route to real practice and computer implementation of the algorithms. Accompanied by example data sets, real ready-to-run Python toolsets and scripts and an overview the latest research in the field, this guide will be invaluable for graduate students and early-career researchers and scientists in medical physics and biomedical engineering who are beginners in the field of image reconstruction. A top-down guide from theory to practical implementation of PET and CT reconstruction methods, without sacrificing the rigor of mathematical background Accompanied by Python source code snippets, suggested exercises, and supplementary ready-to-run examples for readers to download from the CRC Press website Ideal for those willing to move their first steps on the real practice of image reconstruction, with modern scientific programming language and toolsets Daniele Panetta is a researcher at the Institute of Clinical Physiology of the Italian National Research Council (CNR-IFC) in Pisa. He earned his MSc degree in Physics in 2004 and specialisation diploma in Health Physics in 2008, both at the University of Pisa. From 2005 to 2007, he worked at the Department of Physics "E. Fermi" of the University of Pisa in the field of tomographic image reconstruction for small animal imaging micro-CT instrumentation. His current research at CNR-IFC has as its goal the identification of novel PET/CT imaging biomarkers for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. In the field micro-CT imaging, his interests cover applications of three-dimensional morphometry of biosamples and scaffolds for regenerative medicine. He acts as reviewer for scientific journals in the field of Medical Imaging: Physics in Medicine and Biology, Medical Physics, Physica Medica, and others. Since 2012, he is adjunct professor in Medical Physics at the University of Pisa. Niccolo Camarlinghi is a researcher at the University of Pisa. He obtained his MSc in Physics in 2007 and his PhD in Applied Physics in 2012. He has been working in the field of Medical Physics since 2008 and his main research fields are medical image analysis and image reconstruction. He is involved in the development of clinical, pre-clinical PET and hadron therapy monitoring scanners. At the time of writing this book he was a lecturer at University of Pisa, teaching courses of life-sciences and medical physics laboratory. He regularly acts as a referee for the following journals: Medical Physics, Physics in Medicine and Biology, Transactions on Medical Imaging, Computers in Biology and Medicine, Physica Medica, EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing, Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics.

This book explores the physics, technology and applications of particle accelerators. It illustrates the interconnections between applications and basic physical principles, enabling readers to better understand current and upcoming technologies and see beyond the paradigmatic borders of the individual fields. The reader will discover why accelerators are no longer just toys for scientists, but have also become modern and efficient nuclear workhorses. The book starts with an introduction to the relevant technologies and radiation safety aspects of accelerating electrons and ions from several keV to roughly 250 MeV. It subsequently describes the physics behind the interactions of these particle beams with matter. Mathematical descriptions and state-of-the-art computer models of energy-loss and nuclear interactions between the particle beams and targets round out the physics coverage. On this basis, the book then presents the most important accelerator applications in science, medicine, and industry, explaining and comparing more than 20 major application fields, encompassing semiconductors, cancer treatment, and space exploration. Despite the disparate fields involved, this book demonstrates how the same essential technology and physics connects all of these applications.

Over the past two decades it has been increasingly recognized that whole-body ultrasound is an invaluable tool in the critically ill. In addition to offering rapid whole-body assessment, it has the advantage of being a bedside approach that is available at all times and can be repeated at will. Accordingly, it permits the immediate institution of appropriate therapeutic management. Whole-Body Ultrasound in the Critically Ill is the sequel to the author s previous books on the subject, which were first published in French in 1992 and 2002 and in English in 2004. This new volume reflects the latest state of knowledge by including a variety of improvements, revised definitions, and updated algorithms. Findings in respect of individual organs are clearly presented, and a particular feature is the in-depth coverage of the lungs, traditionally regarded as an area unsuitable for ultrasound. Throughout, the emphasis is on the practical therapeutic impact of the technique. Its value in a variety of settings, including unexplained shock, management of hemodynamic instability, acute respiratory failure (the BLUE protocol), and the critically ill neonate, is carefully explained. Interventional ultrasound and less widely recognized applications, such as mesenteric infarction, pneumoperitoneum, and intracranial hypertension, are also described. Pitfalls of the technique receive due attention. Today, whole-body ultrasound touches upon every area of critical care. This book, from the chief pioneer in the field, shows that the technique enables critical care physicians to detect therapeutically relevant signs easily and quickly. It will serve as an invaluable guide to the practice of a form of visual medicine."

In this issue of MRI Clinics, guest editor Dr. Mary K. Jesse brings her considerable expertise to the topic of MR Imaging of the Knee. Top experts in the field cover key topics such as MR knee synovitis and synovial pathology, normal variants of the pediatric knee, MR imaging of knee meniscus, MR post-operative meniscus, and more. Contains 10 relevant, practice-oriented topics including MR posterolateral and posteromedial corner injuries; MR knee cartilage injury and repair surgeries; MR knee bursa and bursal pathology; pre- and post-operative MR of the cruciate ligaments; and more. Provides in-depth clinical reviews on MR imaging of the knee, offering actionable insights for clinical practice. Presents the latest information on this timely, focused topic under the leadership of experienced editors in the field. Authors synthesize and distill the latest research and practice guidelines to create clinically significant, topic-based reviews.

This book provides an introduction to next generation smart screening technology for medical image analysis that combines artificial intelligence (AI) techniques with digital screening to develop innovative methods for detecting breast cancer. The authors begin with a discussion of breast cancer, its characteristics and symptoms, and the importance of early screening.They then provide insight on the role of artificial intelligence in global healthcare, screening methods for breast cancer using mammogram, ultrasound, and thermogram images, and the potential benefits of using AI-based systems for clinical screening to more accurately detect, diagnose, and treat breast cancer. Discusses various existing screening methods for breast cancer Presents deep information on artificial intelligence-based screening methods Discusses cancer treatment based on geographical differences and cultural characteristics

Pixel detectors are a particularly important class of particle and radiation detection devices. They have an extremely broad spectrum of applications, ranging from high-energy physics to the photo cameras of everyday life. This book is a general purpose introduction into the fundamental principles of pixel detector technology and semiconductor-based hybrid pixel devices. Although these devices were developed for high-energy ionizing particles and radiation beyond visible light, they are finding new applications in many other areas. This book will therefore benefit all scientists and engineers working in any laboratory involved in developing or using particle detection.

The foundation for understanding the function and dynamics of biological systems is not only knowledge of their structure, but the new methodologies and applications used to determine that structure. This volume in Biological Magnetic Resonance emphasizes the methods that involve Ultra High Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It will interest researchers working in the field of imaging.

Breast Imaging presents a comprehensive review of the subject matter commonly encountered by practicing radiologists and radiology residents in training. This volume includes succinct overviews of breast cancer epidemiology, screening, staging, and treatment; overviews of all imaging modalities including mammography, tomosynthesis, ultrasound, and MRI; step-by-step approaches for image-guided breast interventions; and high-yield chapters organized by specific imaging finding seen on mammography, tomosynthesis, ultrasound, and MRI. Part of the Rotations in Radiology series, this book offers a guided approach to breast imaging interpretation and techniques, highlighting the nuances necessary to arrive at the best diagnosis and management. Each chapter contains a targeted discussion of an imaging finding which reviews the anatomy and physiology, distinguishing features, imaging techniques, differential diagnosis, clinical issues, key points, and further reading. Breast Imaging is a must-read for residents and practicing radiologists seeking a foundation for the essential knowledge base in breast imaging.

The second E. C. Workshop on Ultrasonic Tissue Characterization was organized for the assessment of research goals and plans as the basis to a grant proposal for a "Concerted Action" which will be forwarded to the European Commission. It should, therefore, not only be considered as a work in progress exhibition which succeeded the former activities within the E. C. (Inventory on Tissue Characterization in Europe and first Workshop). The Steering Group invited a 1 imited group of Institutes to send its group leader and a research fel low in the entitled field, who should expose the overall research program, as wei 1 as the more specific work on tissue characterization by RF signal analysis and spectroscopy. The ultimate goal of the Workshop has been the formulation of schemes of interaction among the Institutes and individuals and the definition of cooperative research programs. The remainder of the groups and some of the groups present are working in the field of analysis and processing of cl inical A- and B-mode echograms (i. e. video signals). Because this work is more closely related to the cl inical diagnostics it was decided that for that reason no preparatory workshop was needed. In the final proposal for the Concerted Action this work wi 1 1 get ample attention. Although not many clinicians were present, their positive interest in the sophisticated analysis techniques and their contribution to the dis cussions again have been a most valuable and stimulating experience.

Recent years have witnessed dramatic advances in the development and use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques that can provide quantitative measures with some degree of pathological specificity for the heterogeneous substrates of multiple sclerosis (MS). Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is one of the most promising of these techniques. Thanks to MRS, axonal damage is no longer considered an end-stage phenomenon typical of only the most destructive lesions and the most unfortunate cases, but rather as a major component of the MS pathology of lesions and normal-appearing white matter at all the phases of the disease. This new concept is rapidly changing our understanding of MS pathophysiology and, as a consequence, the therapeutic strategies to modify the disease course favorably. Many of the authors have pionereed the use of MRS in MS, thus contributing to the foundation of the "axonal hypothesis".