Abstract: The present invention provides an image processing method to assess quantitative myocardial blood flow and/or myocardial flow reserve, comprising the steps of: (a) pre-processing of images comprises: (i) reconstructing dynamic cine 3D tomographic myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) data, (ii) optionally, denoising to improve the quality of image, (iii) extracting blood input function from a region of interest (ROI) of the left ventricle blood cavity, (iv) estimating the distribution volume (DV), given by the ratio of uptake and washout rates (K1/k2) to stabilize and improve estimation of K1, k2 and total blood volume (TBV) and subsequent myocardial blood flow measures, and (v) data normalization by dividing by the maximum of the blood input function; (b) assessing the individual signals pre-processed in step (a) in order to generate K1 and TBV parametric maps using artificial neural network; (c) post-processing of K1, k2 and TBV parametric maps; and of rest and stress myocardial blood flow to estimate myoca

Abstract: In hydroforming of hollow metal articles in a die, such as pressure-ram-forming procedures, a method of decreasing cycle time of the forming process, while ensuring acceptable product properties and avoiding failures, by modeling the process using finite element analysis to establish a pressure-time history that optimizes the forming operation and applies failure limits to selected variables such as minimum wall thickness or maximum strain rate, and transferring this pressure-time history to a computer controlling the forming process. Thermocouple and/or continuity sensors are incorporated into the die wall and connected to the computer so as to provide active feedback from the die to the control of the process.

Abstract: A range-gated doppler processor, adapted for cooperation with a non-coherent receiver of a pulsed energy system and comprising a plurality of switched R-C signal-storage (integrating) networks, each switched-on for a preselected interval corresponding to a successive one of a plurality of range bins-to-be-sampled for providing a stored time-averaged signal indicative of the clutter content at such interval. Differential signal-combining means responsive to the sequential outputs of the switched R-C networks and the range trace signal provides a substantially clutter-free moving target signal for subsequent utilization. Pairs of switched R-C networks may be additionally employed in ancillary stages for compensatory signal-shaping and bandpass filtering, while a subsequent single chain of switched networks may be used for range coherent integration of the video-detected MTI signal.