Abstract: An X-ray imaging device adapted for communicating image data in real time via a network interface. Image data signals from an X-ray imaging detector assembly resulting from conversion of impinging X-ray photons corresponding to a subject image are, in turn, converted to one or more corresponding network data signals, such as Gigabit Ethernet signals.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus (10) includes a photon detector (20) and an accessing circuit (44) coupled thereto. The photon detector (20) detects photons and generates signals in response thereto. The accessing circuit (44) reads out the signals from the photon detector (20) at a sufficiently high rate so that it operates in an event sensitive mode. The apparatus (10) also includes a signal processing module (15) for processing the signals and generating data regarding the images of the object. In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, the signal processing module (15) may include a spatial resolution circuit (56), a photon energy resolution circuit (57), a temporal resolution circuit (58), or any combination thereof.

Abstract: An x-ray diffraction-based scanning method and system are described. The method includes screening for a particular substance in a container at a transportation center using a flat panel detector having a photoconductor x-ray conversion layer to detect x-rays diffracted by a particular substance in the container. The diffracted x-rays may be characterized in different ways, for examples, by wavelength dispersive diffraction and energy dispersive diffraction.

Abstract: Data signal amplification and processing circuitry with multiple signal gains for increasing dynamic signal range. An incoming data signal is processed in accordance with multiple signal gains. The resultant signals have multiple signal values which are compared to predetermined lower and higher thresholds.

Abstract: A shield structure is provided that is suitable for use in connection with an x-ray device that includes an anode and cathode disposed in a vacuum enclosure in a spaced apart arrangement so that a target surface of the anode is positioned to receive electrons emitted by the cathode. The shield structure is configured to be interposed between the anode and the cathode and includes an interior surface that defines an aperture through which the electrons are passed from the cathode to the target surface of the anode. Additionally, the aperture includes an inlet and an outlet sized so that the area of the inlet is relatively smaller than the area of the outlet. Finally, the shield structure is situated in the x-ray device such that the inlet of the aperture is positioned near the cathode and the outlet of the aperture is positioned near the anode target surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for prompting a patient includes a structure configured to be mounted to a patient support, a screen coupled to the structure, and a projector located at a distance away from the screen. A method of prompting a patient that is being supported on a patient support includes adjusting a position of a screen relative to a projector, the screen having a surface, placing the screen in front of the patient such that the patient can see the surface, and providing an image on the screen using the projector.

Abstract: An apparatus for modulating an intensity of a radiation beam includes a filter having a cross sectional shape such that a radiation beam filtered therethrough and passed through a patient will have an intensity that is substantially non-uniform. An apparatus for modulating an intensity of a radiation beam generated by a radiation source includes a filter, and a positioner secured to the filter, the positioner configured to move the filter relative to the radiation source.

Abstract: A method for correction of scatter in an image includes receiving data of an image having a scatter characteristic, performing a deconvolution procedure on the data using Hermite expansion technique, and generating modified image data based on a result from the step of performing. A method for correction of scatter in an image includes receiving data of an image having a scatter characteristic, and generating modified image data using Fredholm integral technique.

Abstract: An apparatus for prompting a patient includes a structure configured to be mounted to a patient support, an image source, and a screen coupled to the structure, wherein the screen is positionable relative to the image source. A method of prompting a patient that is being supported on a patient support includes adjusting a position of a screen relative to an image source, the screen having a surface, placing the screen in front of the patient such that the patient can see the surface, and using the screen to present a prompting signal to the patient.

Abstract: Data signal amplification and processing circuitry with multiple signal gains for increasing dynamic signal range. An incoming data signal is processed in accordance with multiple signal gains. The resultant signals have multiple signal values which are compared to predetermined lower and higher thresholds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a radiation sensitive liposome, and the use of this liposome as carrier for therapeutic and diagnostic agent(s). In particular, the invention encompasses a liposomal delivery system, comprising a stable liposome-forming lipid and a polymerizable colipid, a fraction of which polymerizable colipid polymerizes upon exposure to ionizing radiation, thereby destabilizing the liposomal membrane. Destabilization of liposomes allows for leakage of liposomal contents. The present invention further contemplates methods of diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases that are responsive to liposome-encapsulated or associated agents.

Abstract: A method and system for physiological gating for radiation therapy is disclosed. A method and system for detecting and predictably estimating regular cycles of physiological activity or movements is disclosed. Another disclosed aspect of the invention is directed to predictive actuation of gating system components. Yet another disclosed aspect of the invention is directed to physiological gating of radiation treatment based upon the phase of the physiological activity.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring breathing movement of an infant is disclosed. A method and system for detecting and predictably estimating regular cycles of breathing movements is disclosed. Another disclosed aspect of the invention is directed to detect and report irregularity of breathing activity of an infant, such as cessation and non-periodicity, which suggests a likelihood of SIDS.

Abstract: A method and system for determining the position and orientation of an object is disclosed. A set of markers attached or associated with the object is optically tracked and geometric translation is performed to use the coordinates of the set of markers to determine the location and orientation of their associated object.

Abstract: A photodetector having a semiconductor conversion layer is described. The photodetector is configured to receive x-rays incident on its substrate with the substrate-side contact biased so that the lowest mobility carrier in the semiconductor conversion layer is collected by the substrate side contact.

Abstract: An integrated bearing assembly is provided, comprising a bearing housing defining an axial cavity in which a shaft is disposed. The shaft is rotatably supported by at least two bearing sets. The axial cavity defines three regions, each having distinct diameters. A pair of first regions defines cavity diameters sufficient to receive the bearing sets. A pair of second regions defines cavity diameters such that a small gap is defined between the inner surface of the cavity and the shaft. The third region cooperates with the shaft to define a cylindrical volume containing a coolant. Wettable coatings are utilized in the cylindrical volume to allow free flow of, and maximum contact with, the coolant. Non-wettable coatings are provided in the second regions to contain the coolant. The second regions also function as bearing spacers, thus simplifying bearing assembly design, assembly, and performance.

Abstract: A method and system for physiological gating is disclosed. A method and system for detecting and predictably estimating regular cycles of physiological activity or movements is disclosed. Another disclosed aspect of the invention is directed to predictive actuation of gating system components. Yet another disclosed aspect of the invention is directed to physiological gating of radiation treatment based upon the phase of the physiological activity. Gating can be performed, either prospectively or retrospectively, to any type of procedure, including radiation therapy or imaging, or other types of medical devices and procedures such as PET, MRI, SPECT, and CT scans.

Abstract: Radiation scanning systems to inspect objects are disclosed comprising a first vehicle supporting a radiation source. A second vehicle supports a detector. The source and the detector may be moved to scan an object, such as a cargo conveyance, between the vehicles. The first and second vehicles may having an expandable length and the source and detector may be moved across the expandable length, to scan long objects. The radiation source may be adapted to emit a vertically diverging beam of radiation, such as a fan beam. The radiation may be X-ray radiation, for example. The vehicle may comprise a truck and an expandable trailer releasably coupled to the truck. The trailer may comprise telescoping rails. The first and second vehicles may be driven to an inspection site, where they may be rapidly deployed. Methods of inspecting objects are disclosed, as well.

Abstract: An automated X-ray imaging system and method for producing a plurality of X-ray imaging signals having selectively enhanced volumetric image resolutions, e.g., for magnifying the field of view and providing a volumetric display image having features not otherwise visible to an unaided human eye. Successive doses of X-ray radiation are applied to a portion of the subject to produce corresponding volumetric image signals. Such doses of X-ray radiation are controlled by controlling X-ray radiation characteristics, such as intensity, focal spot size, focal spot location, focal spot shape, or collimation, to cause a subsequent volumetric image signal to differ from a prior volumetric image signal in one or more volumetric image characteristics, such as volumetric image resolution.

Abstract: A method for generating an electron beam includes prescribing a location, and generating an envelope of electrons, the envelope having a waist, wherein the generating is performed such that the waist of the envelope is at or adjacent to the prescribed location. A device for generating an electron beam includes a gun source for generating electrons, and a plurality of electromagnetic cavities coupled in series to form a body, the electromagnetic cavities configured to accelerate at least some of the electrons to create a beam of electrons at an energy level having a value between 5 MeV and 20 MeV, the beam of electrons having a cross sectional dimension that is 0.02 ? (or 2 mm) or less.