Abstract: A malignancy probability is automatically calculated for one or more lesions. The malignancy probability is based on assessments of one or more malignancy characteristics for each lesion derived from two or more structural and/or functional image data sets. Likewise, in some embodiments, the malignancy probability is based on assessments of one or more malignancy characteristics for each lesion derived from a combination of structural and functional image data. In one embodiment, the set of structural image data is a set of CT image data and the set of functional image data is a set of PET image data. The one or more lesions may be detected in the structural and/or functional image data by automated routines or by a visual inspection by a clinician or other reviewer.

Abstract: A combined modality imaging system includes a first imaging device of a first modality and a second imaging device of a second modality that is different from the first modality is provided. The first and the second imaging devices are both adapted to interact with a contrast agent. The contrast agent includes a deformable particle that has a geometry that varies in response to an emission from the first imaging device. The deformable particle also includes a fluorescent component and a quenching component separated from the fluorescent component at a characteristic distance.

Abstract: A method and system for calibrating a Time of Flight Positron Emission Tomography (TOF PET) system are provided. The method includes storing acquired scan data from detector pairs. The acquired scan data includes image data and timing information. The method further includes reconstructing images using scan data. The method also includes determining a timing correction for each detector based on intensity distribution histograms of emission sources. The system includes a controller, which is configured to perform the above-mentioned method steps.

Abstract: In accordance with embodiments of the present technique, a combined modality imaging system includes a first imaging device of a first modality and a second imaging device of a second modality that is different from the first modality. The first and the second imaging devices are both adapted to interact with a contrast agent adapted to be received in a subject. The contrast agent includes an deformable particle that has a geometry that varies in response to an emission from the first imaging device. The deformable particle also includes a fluorescent component adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation that is detectable by the second imaging device and a quenching component separated from the fluorescent component at a distance based on the geometry and that which is adapted to absorb a portion of the electromagnetic radiation from the fluorescent component.

Abstract: A method and system for localization of fluorescence in a scattering medium such as a biological tissue are provided. In comparison to other optical imaging techniques, this disclosure provides for improved spatial resolution, decreased computational time for reconstructions, and allows anatomical and functional imaging simultaneously. The method including the steps of illuminating the scattering medium with an excitation light to excite the fluorescence; modulating a portion of the emitted light from the fluorescence within the scattering medium using an ultrasonically induced variation of material properties of the scattering medium such as the refractive index; detecting the modulated optical signal at a surface of the scattering medium; and reconstructing a spatial distribution of the fluorescence in the scattering medium from the detected signal.