Abstract: A method for extracting photon depth of interaction information in a positron emission tomography system is provided. A pulse is detected in a photodetector. A height of the pulse is measured. A determination of whether the pulse height is within a set range is made. Photon depth of interaction is extracted from the pulse height. An energy of interaction is calculated from the pulse height and calibration data. The extracted photon depth and calculated energy spectrum are used in image reconstruction.

Abstract: A PET apparatus includes an optical coupling detachment testing unit. In one example, the optical coupling detachment testing unit inputs an electric signal to a piezoelectric element or the like adhered to a detector module and generates a sound wave within the detector module. Further, the optical coupling detachment testing unit detects the sound wave propagated within the detector module and performs a frequency analysis on the detected sound wave. Subsequently, as a result of the analysis, the optical coupling detachment testing unit detects whether an optical coupling detachment has occurred by looking for a frequency distribution specific to a surface having an optical coupling detachment and/or comparing a frequency distribution with another frequency distribution from a previous test.

Abstract: A method for generating an image is provided. The method comprises: acquiring a first set of image data using a first imaging modality; sorting the first set of image data into a plurality of gates to generate a plurality of gated data sets; reconstructing each gated data set to generate a respective gated image for each gated data set; registering the respective gated images to generate a plurality of registered images; and generating a median image from the plurality of registered images, wherein each voxel of the median image is a respective median value of the corresponding voxels of the plurality of registered images.

Abstract: A patient bed drive mechanism, under control of a processor, is capable of continuously moving a patient bed through the a TOF-PET detector array having a stationary field of view (FOV) for a distance in excess of the physical extent of an axis of the array FOV. A direct memory access (DMA) rebinner card is coupled to the detector array to receive therefrom a stream of TOF-PET coincidence event data during the extent of movement of the bed. Image projection data are generated in real time from the acquired stream of TOF-PET coincidence event data via the DMA card.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described herein for performing three-dimensional imaging using backscattered photons generated from a positron-electron annihilation. The systems and methods are implemented using the pair of photons created from a positron-electron annihilation. The trajectory and emission time of one of the photons is detected near the annihilation event. Using this collected data, the trajectory of the second photon can be determined. The second photon is used as a probe photon and is directed towards a target for imaging. The interaction of the second probe photon with the target produces back scattered photons that can be detected and used to create a three-dimensional image of the target. The systems and methods described herein are particularly advantageous because they permit imaging with a system from a single side of the target, as opposed to requiring imaging equipment on both sides of the target.

Abstract: A method for estimating the start time of an electronic pulse generated in response to a detected event, for example the start time for pulses received in response to photon detection in positron emission tomography, includes providing a detector that detects an external event and generates an electronic analog pulse signal. A composite reference pulse curve is calculated to represent analog pulse signals generated by the detector. Upon receiving an analog pulse signal, it may be filtered, and then digitized, and normalized based on the area of the digital signal. Using at least one point of the normalized digital pulse signal, the composite reference pulse curve shape is used to estimate the pulse start time.

Abstract: A method for reducing, in an image, motion related imaging artifacts includes obtaining an image dataset of a region of interest, generating a plurality of intermediate images using the image dataset, applying a multivariate data analysis technique to the plurality of the intermediate images to generate motion information, sorting the intermediate images into a plurality of bins based on the motion information, and generating an image of the region of interest using at least one of the plurality of bins.

Abstract: Insert devices that include a RF surface coil and gamma-ray photon detector array for enhancing PET and MRI images produced from integrated PET-MRI scanners are disclosed. Integrated PET-MRI scanners that include such insert devices as well of methods for scanning an object by use of such devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: A positron emission tomography (PET) scanner, including a first detector portion arranged circumferentially around a patient pallet, the first detector portion having a predetermined axial extent and transaxially subtending more than 180 degrees, but less than 360 degrees with respect to a central axis of the scanner defined by the first detector portion; and a second detector portion arranged separately from and opposing the first detector section, the second detector portion having a radius of curvature smaller than a radius of curvature of the first detector portion, wherein the second detector portion transaxially subtends less than 180 degrees with respect to the central axis of the scanner.

Abstract: A positron emission tomography (PET) scanner, including a first detector portion arranged circumferentially around a patient pallet, the first detector portion having a predetermined axial extent and transaxially subtending less than 360 degrees with respect to a central axis of the scanner defined by the first detector portion, wherein the first detector portion includes a plurality of first detector elements; and a second detector portion arranged separately from and opposing the first detector section, the second detector portion including a plurality of second detector elements, the second detector elements being of a different type than the first detector elements, wherein each of the first detector elements includes photomultiplier tubes (PMTs); and each of the second detector elements includes photosensors of a different type from the PMTs of the first detector elements.

Abstract: A method for creating a look-up table includes arranging a mask configured to cover a subset of crystals of a plurality of crystals in a scintillation array. The method includes collecting a first set of data from at least one photosensor positioned to receive light generated by the scintillation array. The method further includes realigning the mask in a second position on the scintillation array to cover a second subset of crystals of the plurality of crystals. Further, the method includes collecting a second set of data from the at least one photosensor with the mask aligned on the scintillation array in the second position. Additionally, the method includes creating first and second flood histograms from the first and second sets of collected data, respectively. The method also superimposing the first flood histogram with the second flood histogram to create a superimposed flood histogram.

Abstract: A computed tomography (CT) imaging system is disclosed. The CT imaging system may be used in a multi-modality imaging context or other context. In one embodiment, the CT imaging system provides for both fast rotation of the rotating X-ray source and detection components and low dose of X-rays generated by the source providing several clinical and economic benefits such as low dose and sufficient image quality and no or insignificant investment in room shielding associated with diagnostic CT dose.

Abstract: A generally cylindrical set of coil windings includes primary coil windings and shield coil windings at a larger radial position than the primary coil windings, and an arcuate or annular central gap that is free of coil windings, has an axial extent of at least ten centimeters, and spans at least a 180° angular interval. Connecting conductors disposed at each edge of the central gap electrically connect selected primary and secondary coil windings. In a scanner setting, a main magnet is disposed outside of the generally cylindrical set of coil windings. In a hybrid scanner setting, an annular ring of positron emission tomography (PET) detectors is disposed in the central gap of the generally cylindrical set of coil windings.

Abstract: It is provided a capacitive type proximity sensor, comprising a sensing electrode, whereas the sensing electrode has a surface with electroconductive areas 113 and not-electroconductive areas 117, whereas the sensor is adapted for measuring an electrical field 110, 112 between the sensing electrode and an object 109, 111. Further it is described an apparatus for medical x-ray diagnosis and/or x-ray therapy and/or nuclear diagnosis/therapy, e.g. SPECT, a system for medical x-ray diagnosis and/or x-ray therapy and/or nuclear diagnosis/therapy, e.g. SPECT, a method for avoiding collision between an apparatus for medical x-ray diagnosis and/or x-ray therapy and/or nuclear diagnosis/therapy, e.g. SPECT, and an object, a program element and a computer readable medium. It is disclosed a capacitance type proximity sensor whose sensitivity of approaching objects has an improved independence from the special geometry of the sensor itself.

Abstract: A positron emission computed tomography apparatus according to an embodiment includes a detector, a buffer, and a regulating unit. The detector detects annihilation radiation. The buffer stores therein event data generated based on an output signal from the detector. The regulating unit regulates the amount of the event data read from the buffer during a high count rate period of the events at which the annihilation radiation is detected.

Abstract: Scintillator materials based on mixed garnet compositions, as well as corresponding methods and systems, are described.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a plurality of radiation conversion elements (32) that convert radiation to light, and a reflector layer (34) disposed around the plurality of radiation conversion elements. The plurality of radiation conversion elements may consist of two radiation conversion elements and the reflector layer is wrapped around the two radiation conversion elements with ends (40, 42) of the reflector layer tucked between the two radiation conversion elements. The reflector layer (34) may include a light reflective layer (50) having reflectance greater than 90% disposed adjacent to the radiation conversion elements when the reflector layer (34) is disposed around the plurality of radiation conversion elements, and a light barrier layer (52).

Abstract: A method of imaging a region of interest (ROI) in an object, the ROI having an axial extent greater than an axial FOV of a PET scanner. The method includes determining a number of overlapping scans of the PET scanner necessary to image at least the axial extent of the ROI, wherein each scan has a same axial length equal to the axial FOV, and each scan overlaps an adjacent scan by a predetermined overlap percentage of the axial length of each scan. Further, the method includes determining a total amount of excess scanning length of the scans based on the number, the axial extent of the ROI, and the axial FOV, and determining a new overlap percentage based on the total amount of excess scanning length and the predetermined overlap percentage, so that a new total amount of excess scanning length, as determined with the new overlap percentage, is zero.

Abstract: The subject matters of the invention is a matrix device and method for determining the place and time of the gamma quanta interaction as well as the use of the device for determining the place and time of the gamma quanta interaction in positron emission tomography.

Abstract: A method and system for reducing scintillator afterglow. Methods for reducing afterglow include conditioning a scintillator by exposing it to high flux densities of ionizing radiation. One technique includes operating an x-ray tube at elevated amperage.

Abstract: In an open PET device including a plurality of detector rings that are arranged apart in the direction of the body axis of a subject and having a physical open field of view area, at least one of the detector rings or another imaging device arranged in parallel is configured to be movable by simple device moving means in order to change the configuration of the PET device. This improves the versatility of the open PET device for easier introduction to facilities.

Abstract: A method for quantifying the uptake of at least one radiotracer in a body region of a patient of interest to a positron emission tomography measurement is disclosed. In at least one embodiment of the method, the uptake of the radiotracer in the body region of the patient of interest to the positron emission tomography measurement is quantified taking into account at least one permeability information item relating to the permeability of at least one blood vessel of the patient, in particular in the body region of interest.

Abstract: A positron emission scanner is disclosed having a timing compensation element which uses position information originating from a spatial locator element to compensate for travel time of timing signals. A method of constructing a PET image is also discussed in which a timing error function is convolved with an envelope function evaluated along a line of response to derive an emission event weight for use in image construction.

Abstract: A multi-modality cancer screening and diagnosis system is provided that allows cancer screening and diagnosis of a patient using at least two different and sequential three-dimensional imaging techniques without patient repositioning. The system includes a first three-dimensional image acquisition device, a second three-dimensional image acquisition device having a probe with a transmitter mounted thereon, and a positioning paddle for positioning and immobilizing an object to be imaged during the cancer screening and diagnosis procedure. The positioning paddle is designed to facilitate visualization of the breast in both three-dimensional modalities without movement of the patient, and preferably is designed to position the patient with comfort during a diagnosis procedure which uses both imaging modalities.

Abstract: Disclosed is radiation tomography apparatus for smaller animals including a radiation source for emitting radiation; a radiation detecting device for detecting radiation; a rotary device for rotating the radiation source; and a holder provided between the radiation source and the radiation detecting device that has two or more spaces for placing a subject. The holder includes space discriminating members for each of the spaces. Each of the space discriminating members has a unique sectional shape when cut along a plane where an imaginary circle exists. Here, the imaginary circle is a locus of rotation of the radiation source.

Abstract: In positron emission tomography (PET), a detector's response to scattered radiation may be different from its response to unscattered (true coincidence) photons. This difference should be accounted for during normalization and scatter correction. The disclosure shows that only a knowledge of the ratio of the scatter to trues efficiencies is necessary, however. A system and method are disclosed for measuring the scatter/trues detection efficiency ratio, as well as for applying this compensation during the scatter correction of PET emission data. PET detector efficiencies are measured in two steps, the first using a plane radiation source, and the second using a plane radiation source in combination with a scattering medium. A ratio of the scatter and trues detection efficiency is obtained from this data for each detector/crystal, and is applied as a correction factor to PET data obtained during medical imaging processes.

Abstract: A method and a facility are disclosed for imaging a PET spectrum with a PET detector, especially a PE-MR tomograph, and evaluation of the PET spectrum. To improve the correction of the base line in PET and thereby to improve the energy resolution for the PET images, at least one embodiment of the facility includes: a sampling facility for sampling the output signal of the PET detector at a predetermined sampling rate; an edge discriminator for recognizing at least one edge of a PET pulse; a background signal discriminator for estimating a background signal under the PET pulse; and an integrator device for determining the energy of the PET pulse in the PET spectrum above of the background signal from the sample values of the sampling facility.

Abstract: Methods and systems for producing an image. Measurement data is obtained for a coincidence photon event, and a line projector function is generated based on the obtained measurement data. Additional measurement data is obtained for a single photon event, and a cone-surface projector function is generated based on the additional measurement data. An image is reconstructed using the generated line projector function and the generated cone-surface projector function. In another example method for producing an image, a measurement is obtained, and a projector function is generated using the obtained measurement. The generated projector function is modified based on an a priori image. An image is reconstructed using the modified projector function.

Abstract: A mobile compact imaging system that combines both PET imaging and optical imaging into a single system which can be located in the operating room (OR) and provides faster feedback to determine if a tumor has been fully resected and if there are adequate surgical margins. While final confirmation is obtained from the pathology lab, such a device can reduce the total time necessary for the procedure and the number of iterations required to achieve satisfactory resection of a tumor with good margins.

Abstract: A mobile PET imager and method for the same is provided. The mobile PET imager includes a plurality of detector modules forming a ring detector, each for nuclear radiation detection. The imager may include a plurality of attenuation source housings including sources for attenuation such that each attenuation source housing is placed between two of the detector modules. A plurality of channel cards for processing data from the plurality of detector modules may be in the imager so that each channel card is shared by more than one of the detector modules. The imager may include at least one channel card for processing data from the detector modules and at least one resistor network acting as preamplifier, coupling to the detector modules and the channel card such that the channel card is mounted on the detector module in layer.

Abstract: The subject of the invention is a strip device and method for determining the place and time of the gamma quanta interaction as well as the use of the device for determining the place and time of the gamma quanta interaction in positron emission tomography.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a data processing device for evaluating measurement signals provided by a layered, pixelated radiation detector. A generalized detector response function is provided that describes the energy-related crosstalk caused by radiation incident in the d-th neighboring pixel. With the help of this GDR-function, crosstalk effects can be taken into account to achieve a more accurate determination of imaging parameters related to an imaged object. The approach can particularly be used in spectrally resolved, photon counting CT detectors with small, layered pixels.

Abstract: A gamma ray detection system includes a plurality of detector modules having a same length, where each detector module is configured to detect gamma rays generated from positron annihilation events. A first detector module of the plurality of detector modules is shifted by a predetermined distance in an axial direction from a second detector module of the plurality of detector modules that is adjacent to the first detector module, where the predetermined distance is less than the length of the detector modules.

Abstract: Apparatus for imaging an object, the apparatus comprising: an imaging device configured to image the object while the object is supported on a support, the support comprising a base for positioning on a surface, wherein the object and the support are stationary relative to the surface, and further wherein the imaging device is adapted to move relative to the surface, and hence relative to the object and to the support, during imaging; the imaging device comprising a housing having a bottom notch sized to accommodate the base of the support, whereby to allow the base of the support to extend into the housing during imaging.

Abstract: Systems and methods for using antiprotons for terminating unwanted or undesirable cells which can be used in the treatment of conditions caused by the existence and/or proliferation of such undesirable cells. Such conditions include cardiovascular ailments, Parkinson's disease, wet macular degeneration, endocrine disorders, dermatological ailments, and cancer. Because of the unique nature of antiprotons and their annihilation characteristics, the preferred antiproton delivery device (1010, 1015, 1030) embodiments further incorporate detector arrays (1050a), capable of detecting characteristic emissions in the course of treatment.

Abstract: A method for creating a look-up table includes arranging a mask configured to cover a subset of crystals of a plurality of crystals in a scintillation array. The method includes collecting a first set of data from at least one photosensor positioned to receive light generated by the scintillation array. The method further includes realigning the mask in a second position on the scintillation array to cover a second subset of crystals of the plurality of crystals. Further, the method includes collecting a second set of data from the at least one photosensor with the mask aligned on the scintillation array in the second position. Additionally, the method includes creating first and second flood histograms from the first and second sets of collected data, respectively. The method also superimposing the first flood histogram with the second flood histogram to create a superimposed flood histogram.

Abstract: A positron emission tomography scanner system that includes detector modules arranged adjacent to one another to form a cylindrical detector ring. Each of the detector modules includes an array of scintillation crystal elements, a plurality of photosensors arranged to cover the array of crystal elements and configured to receive light emitted from the array of crystal elements, and a fiber optics plate arranged between the array of scintillation crystal elements and the plurality of photosensors, the fiber optics plate including a plurality of fibers configured to guide the light emitted from the scintillation crystal to the plurality of photosensors.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a common PET/SPECT/CT gantry including a central aperture. At least one x-ray source can be mounted on the common gantry in a fixed relation, wherein an x-ray beam emitted by the source is directed across the central aperture. Some embodiments can also include a plurality of x-ray scintillation detectors mounted on the common gantry in a fixed relation and directed in an opposing orientation relative to the at least one x-ray source. In some embodiments a plurality of PET/SPECT scintillation detectors is also mounted on the common gantry in a fixed relation, wherein the PET/SPECT detectors define an arc having a center in common with the central aperture.

Abstract: A PET apparatus comprises a plurality of detector units in the circumferential direction, wherein the detector unit includes a plurality of unit substrates therein, and wherein the unit substrate includes: a plurality of detectors upon which a ?-ray is incident; and an analog ASIC and digital ASIC for processing a ?-ray detection signal outputted by each of the detectors. The analog ASIC includes two slow systems having mutually different time constants, each of which outputs a pulseheight value. A noise determination part of the digital ASIC determines whether a relevant detection signal is an intended ?-ray detection signal or a noise based on a correlation between the pulseheight values, and a noise counting part counts the number of times of noise determination, and a detector output signal processing control part controls the signal processing with respect to an output signal from a relevant detector based on the count.

Abstract: A PET event position calculation method using a combination angular and radial event map wherein identification of the radial distance of the event from the centroid of the scintillation crystal with which the event is associated as well as angular information is performed. The radial distance can be converted to a statistical confidence interval, which information can be used in downstream processing. More sophisticated reconstruction algorithms can use the confidence interval information selectively, to generate higher fidelity images with higher confidence information, and to improve statistics in dynamic imaging with lower confidence information.

Abstract: A method for generating a hybrid imaging volume includes acquiring a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging dataset of an object using a PET imaging system, the PET imaging dataset including at least one motion affected portion and at least one non-motion affected portion, identifying a motion affected portion of the PET imaging dataset, motion correcting the identified portion of the PET imaging dataset to generate a hybrid portion, and constructing a hybrid PET image volume using the hybrid portion and the at least one non-motion affected portion. A system for implementing the method is also described herein.

Abstract: A positron emission tomography detector module that includes an array of optically isolated crystal elements and photomultiplier tubes that receive light emitted from the array of crystal elements and are arranged to cover the array of crystal elements. The photomultiplier tubes include photomultiplier tubes having two different sizes arranged in various patterns that minimize the number of edges. The axial extent of each detector module is at least three times longer than the other axis of the detector module.

Abstract: A mobile PET scanner for use in bed side or a surgical environment comprises a mobile support base, with first and a second arm arms extending therefrom. The first arm is configured for placement under a table supporting an individual while the second arm is substantially parallel to and above said first arm with the individual being located between the first and second arms. Multiple module blocks are positioned along the length of the first and second arm. Each modules block comprises scintillators with solid state silicone multipliers or multi-pixel photon counters attached thereto. Positrons emitted from radiation labeled tissue within the individual's body impinge on the multiple scintillators to generate. The photons from each of the scintillator are received by each of a solid state silicone multipliers or multi-pixel photon counters associated therewith and an electrical signal representative of the received photons is then generated.

Abstract: A continuous time-of-flight scatter simulation method is provided, with a related method of correcting PET imaging data to compensate for photon scatter. Scatter contributions from each imaging pixel in a field of view may be calculated without binning data.

Abstract: A sandwich structure which attenuates the PET radiation minimally, is used as a support tube for the transmit antenna. In at least one embodiment, it includes a thin strong inner wall, a likewise thin and strong outer wall and an interior of the support tube which is of the honeycomb type or is made of foam material.

Abstract: An organism is irradiated with therapeutic radiation from a radiation irradiation device. A pair of two-dimensional radiation detectors are arranged so as to face one another with the irradiated therapeutic radiation passing therebetween, and detect the two-dimensional positions irradiated by a pair of annihilation ? rays produced when a positron emitted from a positron-emitting radionuclide is annihilated. On the basis of a pair of positions detected by the pair of two-dimensional radiation detectors, a radionuclide position detecting unit detects the position of the positron-emitting radionuclide, and the radiation irradiation device irradiates the position of the positron-emitting radionuclide with therapeutic radiation.

Abstract: A nuclear imaging system including a PET scanner having a bore sized no larger than necessary to accommodate a human head; and a wheel-mounted scanner gantry for supporting the PET scanner, the wheel-mounted scanner gantry having a width small enough to fit through a standard doorway.

Abstract: Imaging systems including phoswich scintillator detectors, related devices and methods.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for evaluating an activity distribution obtained in a moved target object by a beam that is generated by an irradiation device. Said apparatus comprises: a positron emission tomograph designed to record photons generated in the target object by the beam and generate measurement data representing points of origin of the photons; a movement detection device designed to generate a movement signal representing the movement of the target object; and an evaluation unit designed to associate the points of origin of the measured photons with positions in the target object with the help of the movement signal such that three-dimensional characteristics of the activity distribution actually generated in the target object can be evaluated by means of the photons generated by the beam. The invention further relates to an irradiation system and a method in which such an apparatus is used.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a nuclear medicine imaging apparatus includes a detector, a calibrator, and an image reconstruction unit. The detector includes a plurality of detector modules, each counting light originating from a gamma ray. The calibrator unit calibrates time information of all of the plurality of detector modules by calibrating time information for determining each detection time of a pair of detector modules based on each detection time of the pair of the detector modules which approximately coincidentally count annihilation gamma rays and a distance between the pair of detector modules in a state in which a point radiation source including a positron emitting nuclide is installed in each position near a plurality of predetermined detector modules. The image reconstruction unit reconstructs a nuclear medicine image using a time difference between detection times of annihilation gamma rays corrected based on time information calibrated by the calibrator.