Abstract: A method and means enabling identification in an NMR image, being one of a time-sequence of images recording induced changes in pixel values of successive images of a subject (such as post-contrast dynamic images), the contribution to the image arising from the presence within the image subject of a specified tissue (e.g. fat). This identification is done using a statistical measure derived from the dynamic data (e.g. pixel value changes due to contrast agent uptake) taken from a plurality of the separate images forming the time-sequence.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method apparatus for image processing of e.g. MRI images. A method and apparatus is disclosed enabling one to determine if an image contrast/intensity change of a chosen point within an imaged subject volume (e.g. a lesion) is an artefact of motion in the imaged subject. An apparatus and method for fast visual assessment of the imaged subject volume's alignment quality (within a time-sequence of images) is provided, and an interactive display tool enabling effective use of this method is provided.

Abstract: In nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy spatial localization of the output signal is achieved by using gradient magnetic fields and radio-frequency inversion pulses to define slices through a sample from which a signal is obtained. The use of intersecting slices allows the field of view to be reduced to the region of intersection to study a localized volume of interest in the sample. Conventionally, three orthogonal gradient magnetic fields can be defined by energizing successively three gradient magnetic field coils. With the present invention combinations of the gradient magnetic field coils are energized simultaneously to allow the field of view to be more closely conformed to a described volume of interest. This simultaneous energization allows the field of view to be rotated relative to the axes of the coils and/or allows non-orthogonal intersecting slices to be defined to alter the shape of the field of view at the intersection of the slices.

Abstract: In magnetic resonance spectroscopy or imaging, e.g. n.m.r. or e.s.r., a method of localizing the region of a sample from which a resonance signal is obtained by modulating the component M.sub.z of magnetization in the B.sub.o direction according to position in the sample. This is achieved by flipping the spins away from the B.sub.o direction, applying a gradient magnetic field so that they lose or gain phase according to their position, refocussing the effects of any resonance offsets including chemical shifts and subsequently returning them to the B.sub.o direction whereupon M.sub.z depends on the phase lost or gained and thus the position. This may be repeated, possibly with different gradient fields or different phase pulses, to further localize the region before a resonance signal is finally detected. The contribution to the resonance signal varies with M.sub.z and so is localized to regions of greater M.sub.z.

Abstract: A CT scanner comprises a rotatable gantry 1 carrying an X-ray source 3 which provides a fan-shaped beam of X-rays and an X-ray detector 10 which scans the X-ray intensity along a line in the plain of the beam. The gantry is rotatable about an axis A relative to a couch 2 which supports the patient under investigation. The X-ray detector 10 comprises two concentric X-ray masks exposed around a scintillator tube; the two masks having helical X-ray transmissive apertures, the helices being of opposed orientation so that rotation of the masks in opposite directions causes the exposed area of the scintillator tube to move along its length.