Abstract: A method for determining a candidate lesion region within an ultrasound image. The method includes the steps of: accessing a digital ultrasound image of anatomical tissue; segmenting spatially contiguous pixels in the ultrasound image into a plurality of regions in accordance with substantially similar intensity values and spatial smoothness constraints; and selecting, from the plurality of regions, one or more candidate lesion regions having an intensity value lower than a pre-determined intensity value. In one arrangement, the one or more candidate lesion region is classified into at least one of the following classes: benign, malignant, or unknown.

Abstract: A technique is provided for viewing image data via a user interface. The technique includes displaying two or more selectable tabs and displaying a corresponding analysis for a selected tab. Each tab corresponds to an analysis of a set of radiological images and the corresponding analysis comprises one or more identified features. The technique also includes displaying a corresponding image for a selected feature such that the selected feature is visually indicated on the corresponding image.

Abstract: A method of training a subject to improve anticipatory timing includes presenting the subject with multiple sequences of stimuli, receiving sensor signals associated with responses by the subject to the stimuli, and recording response times in accordance with the sensor signals, wherein the recorded response times are associated with the responses by the subject to the multiple sequences of stimuli, and wherein the response times have an associated distribution. The method further includes analyzing the distribution of response times for the subject to determine variability in anticipatory timing of the subject with respect to the stimuli, and generating a subject feedback signal corresponding to a result of the analyzing so as to train the subject to improve anticipatory timing of the subject. Also disclosed is a system for performing the aforementioned training method.

Abstract: A method for segmenting coronary vessels in digitized cardiac images includes providing a digitized cardiac image, providing a seed point in the image, selecting a volume-of-interest about the seed point, performing a local segmentation in the volume-of-interest, including initializing a connected component with the seed point and a threshold intensity value to the intensity of the seed point, adding a point to the connected component if the point is adjacent to the connected component and if the intensity of the point is greater than or equal to the threshold value, lowering the threshold intensity value, and computing an attribute value of the connected component, wherein if a discontinuity in the attribute value is detected, the local segmentation is terminated, wherein a local segmentation mask of a vessel is obtained.

Abstract: A method is provided for analysis of a multi-dimensional structure which includes a tubular structure from two-dimensional datasets for respective pre-determined projection directions. A pair of corresponding initial projected centre points of the tubular structure is identified in two respective initial and further two-dimensional datasets. Projected edges of the tubular structure in said initial two-dimensional datasets and in said further two-dimensional dataset near the respective projected centre points are identified. A local size of the tubular structure is derived at the three-dimensional spatial position of the centre point of the tubular structure from said projected edges and the predetermined projection directions.

Abstract: A normal structure element image representing normal structure of at least predetermined one of structure elements of an object images of which are included in an image of the object is artificially generated. A structure-removed image, which is an image obtained by removing the predetermined structure element from the image of the object, is generated by an image operation between the image of the object and the normal structure element image of the predetermined structure element.

Abstract: The invention provides improvements in reconstructive imaging of the type in which a volume is reconstructed from a series of measured projection images (or other two-dimensional representations) by utilizing the capabilities of graphics processing units (GPUs). In one aspect, the invention configures a GPU to reconstruct a volume by initializing an estimated density distribution of that volume to arbitrary values in a three-dimensional voxel-based matrix and, then, determining the actual density distribution iteratively by, for each of the measured projections, (a) forward-projecting the estimated volume computationally and comparing the forward-projection with the measured projection, (b) generating a correction term for each pixel in the forward-projection based on that comparison, and (c) back-projecting the correction term for each pixel in the forward-projection onto all voxels of the volume that were mapped into that pixel in the forward-projection.

Abstract: A method and system are provided to report the findings of an expert's analysis of image data. The method and system are based on a reporting system that forms the basis of an image management system that can efficiently and systematically generate image reports, facilitate data entry into searchable databases for data mining, and expedite billing and collections for the expert's services. The expert identifies a significant finding on an image and attaches a location:description code to the location of that finding in order to create a significant finding and an entry into a database. Further descriptions of that finding, such as dimensional measurements, audio descriptions, 3D rendered snapshots, etc., may be automatically appended to the finding as secondary attributes of the finding within the database. At the end of the expert's evaluation of the image(s), the system sorts the findings in the database and presents the findings by prioritized categories.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for registering 2D projection images of an object relative to a 3D image data record of the same object, in which, from just a few 2D projection images, a 3D feature contained in an object, which is also identifiable in the 3D images, is symbolically reconstructed. The 3D feature obtained in this way is then registered by 3D-3D registration with the 3D image data record.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus comprises an imaging condition setting unit, a receiving unit, an image reconstructing unit, an image distortion correcting unit and an image correction estimating unit. The imaging condition setting unit sets mutually different image conditions. The receiving unit receives magnetic resonance signals from an imaging area according to the image conditions. The image reconstructing unit reconstructs a plurality of image data corresponding to the image conditions respectively based on the magnetic resonance signals. The image distortion correcting unit corrects distortions of the plurality of the image data based on a magnetic field distribution on the imaging area. The image correction estimating unit estimates whether a correction of at least one of the plurality of the image data is appropriate based on a plurality of corrected image data.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for imaging tissue by upstream illumination and downstream dual filtering of the exiting light for separation of ballistic photons rays from stray rays. Dual filtering includes spatial filtering via a pinhole and spatial filtering operated by a fast gate. A processor synchronizes flashes of illumination with the fast gate to command opening for passage of the ballistic photons rays and closure to exclude the stray rays. An image detector downstream of the fast gate collects the ballistic photons rays for processing by the processor and display on a monitor as a shadowgram. Illumination flashes have one or more wavelengths and the image detector is adapted to match the selected wavelengths of the illuminating flashes.

Abstract: The business method known as QAISys (Quality Assessment and Improvement System) is a process that rates comprehensively and continually the quality of medical images as determined by the interpreting radiologist. The output of this system conveys feedback from the radiologist to the performing technologist and his/her supervisor. This feedback enables medical radiologists, technologists, and managers to bridge any communication gaps between themselves in respect to the quality and effectiveness of medical images. It permits management to assess and track image quality for an entire medical imaging department by modality, location, and/or shift, and for each individual technologist. The QAISys method reveals the nature of recurrent quality failures and highlights which exam types need to be improved. QAISys then indicates practical, cost-effective means of assessing and improving the overall medical images for future patients.

Abstract: A method and system for managing at least one animal is disclosed. The method can include imaging, such as ultrasound imaging, a lung of a live animal, such as a ruminant animal or bovine animal. The imaging can be performed to determine a degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness. After imaging, information regarding respiratory damage can be used to select at least one aspect of the treatment, care or disposition of the animal. For example, the information can be used to select the amount or type of feed provided to the animal at a feedlot. The information also can be used to select how long the animal should be housed at the feedlot prior to slaughter. If an animal is diagnosed with a respiratory illness, information about its degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness also can be used to select the appropriate medical treatment or lack of treatment.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for determining a joint space width includes providing image data for a skeleton, thresholding the image data, and performing a connected component analysis on thresholded image data. The method further includes extracting contours of the thresholded image data according to the connected component analysis, performing a skeletonization of the thresholded image data using a first fast marching analysis of the thresholded image data, locating at least one finger joint of skeletonized image data, extracting bone boundaries using a second fast marching analysis of gradient information of the image data inside a region of interest, which includes a finger joint of the at least one finger joint, determining the joint space width given extracted bone boundaries, and outputting the joint space width.

Abstract: A method of classifying arrhythmias using scatter plot analysis to define a measure of variability of a cardiac rhythm parameter such as for example, without limitation, R-R interval, A-A interval, and the slope of a portion of a cardiac signal, is disclosed. The variability measurement is derived from a scatter plot of a cardiac rhythm parameter, employing a region counting technique that quantifies the variability of the cardiac rhythm parameter while minimizing the computational complexity. The method may be employed by an implantable medical device or system, such as an implantable pacemaker or cardioverter defibrillator, or by an external device or system, such as a programmer or computer. The variability measurement may be correlated with other device or system information to differentiate between atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation, for example. The variability information may also be used by the device or system to select an appropriate therapy for a patient.

Abstract: A method for segmentation of a ground glass nodule included in a volume of interest in a medical image and segmented by a process such as a Markov random field process, includes: identifying vessels in the volume of interest; segmenting the vessels; and removing segmented vessels from the segmented ground glass nodule.

Abstract: CAD (computer-aided diagnosis) systems and applications for breast imaging are provided, which implement methods to automatically extract and analyze features from a collection of patient information (including image data and/or non-image data) of a subject patient, to provide decision support for various aspects of physician workflow including, for example, automated diagnosis of breast cancer other automated decision support functions that enable decision support for, e.g., screening and staging for breast cancer. The CAD systems implement machine-learning techniques that use a set of training data obtained (learned) from a database of labeled patient cases in one or more relevant clinical domains and/or expert interpretations of such data to enable the CAD systems to “learn” to analyze patient data and make proper diagnostic assessments and decisions for assisting physician workflow.

Abstract: A method and system for filtering medical images is described. The described method of filtering medical images includes receiving image data including a plurality of images from an image scan, determining a number of interpolation elements based on a slice thickness of the plurality of images, and filtering the image data using the determined interpolation elements.

Abstract: A detection and tracking method that enables an objective determination of changes in handwriting with the passage of time and progress of medical conditions which affect fine motor skills. Specifically, a detection and tracking method which precisely describes a handwriting sample as a plurality of features which become indicators of a medical disorder affecting fine motor skills. The indicators are obtained and characterized using analytical and statistical techniques resulting in the development of diagnostic tools for detection and management of that disorder.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for registering image data of a body, wherein the image data are captured in a detection range and the body is subsequently shifted relative to the detection range or vice versa. The image data are registered from the detected position of a first marker array, arranged in a defined positional relationship relative to the body, and from the detected position of a second marker array, arranged in a defined positional relationship relative to the detection range. The apparatus includes a camera and a first marker array that is arranged in a known positional relationship relative to the body, wherein a second marker array is arranged at a fixed position relative to a detection range.

Abstract: A method of computer aided treatment planning is performed by generating and manipulating a three dimensional (3D) image of a region which includes at least one anatomical structure for which treatment, such as surgery, biopsy, tissue component analysis, prosthesis implantation, radiation, chemotherapy and the like, is contemplated. A virtual intervention, which simulates at least a portion of the contemplated treatment, is performed in the 3D image. The user can then determine the effect of the intervention and interactively modify the intervention for improved treatment results. Preferably, a warning is automatically provided if the intervention poses a risk of detrimental effect. The user can navigate through the contemplated region in the 3D image and assess the results. The treatment plans can be saved for comparison and post treatment evaluation.

Abstract: A method for automatically classifying a radiograph. A digital radiographic image is acquired, wherein the image is comprised of a matrix of rows and columns of pixels. The digital image is segmented into foreground, background, and anatomy regions. A physical size of the anatomy region is classified. An edge direction histogram of the anatomy region is generated and a shape pattern of the edge direction histogram is classified. Based on the physical size classification and the shape pattern classification, the image is categorized.

Abstract: A method for optimizing the interpretation of analog image signals or sequences of image signals output by medical image recording devices. The correlation of consecutively recorded image signals is tested and, based on the test, the image signals are identified as depicting the same or different images. More specifically, if the correlation is not less than a particular threshold value, it is established that the image signals depict the same image. If the correlation is less than a particular threshold value, it is established that the image signals possibly depict different images. Further, the threshold value is dynamically adjusted if the correlation has changed.

Abstract: CAD (computer-aided decision) support systems, methods and tools are provided for automated decision support for screening, evaluating, and/or diagnosing medial conditions. For example, CAD support systems and tools implement methods for automatically processing patient data for a subject patient using various interpretation methods, and integrally rending and presenting the interpretation results to a user (e.g., physician, radiologist, etc.) in a manner that enables fast and efficient screening, evaluation, and/or diagnosis of potential medical conditions of the subject patient.

Abstract: A method is for post-editing a first image data set using a post-editing software program, the image having initially been obtained using an image producing medical examination device, and a second post-edited image data set including an image attribute, which characterizes the post-editing of the second image data set. The second image data set is loaded into the post-editing software, whereby there the image attribute is extracted from the second image data set and buffered. The first image data set is then post-edited by transferring the buffered image attribute onto it. An advantage of the method lies in the fact that the post-editing and display of the first image data set occur in a quick and simple manner.

Abstract: A method/system preserves annotations of different pathological conditions or changes that are recognized on cross-sections within a three dimensional volume of a patient's eye so that the annotations are maintained in a visible state in an en face projection produced with a SVP technique. it is thus possible to coregister the annotated conditions or changes with other types of two dimensional en face images such as images from other ophthalmic devices (e.g., angiography device, microperimetry device, autofluorescence device, fundal photography device.). The annotations are also maintained in a visible state in the coregistered image.

Abstract: One automated imaging process, as described herein, includes: a) obtaining digital images of objects in a biological sample; b) selecting a plurality of objects of interest from the digital images; c) obtaining multiple images of the selected objects of interest at a plurality of different wavelengths; d) combining one of said multiple images with a corresponding digital image to produce a combined image; and e) analyzing the combined image in order to characterize the biological sample.

Abstract: Time course MRI data is acquired from the hippocampal region of the brain and processed to produce two indices that are a measure of the functional connectivity between locations therein. The MRI data is acquired while the brain is substantially at rest and the spontaneous low frequency component of the time course data at each location in the hippocampus is extracted and compared in a cross-correlation process. Also acquired is fMRI data which indicates those locations in the brain that should be included in the index calculations.

Abstract: An automated method measures coronary calcium in a living subject using x-ray computed tomography (CT). The method acquires at least one CT image containing voxels representing x-ray attenuation of the subject which may or may not be calibrated. The method of analysis may or may not require operator interactions and includes analyzing the images in a computer to identify the boundaries of the heart. The method further includes identifying the approximate location of at least one coronary artery without operator interaction. The method further includes placing a region-of-interest (ROI) surrounding the artery location automatically. The method further includes analyzing the ROI to identify voxels above a threshold value. The method further includes determining the calcium content in mass units.

Abstract: A system and method for defining and tracking a deformable shape of a candidate anatomical structure wall in a three dimensional (3D) image is disclosed. The shape of the candidate anatomical structure is represented by a plurality of labeled 3D landmark points. At least one 3D landmark point of the deformable shape in an image frame is defined. A 3D cuboid is defined around the detected 3D landmark point. For each landmark point associated with the anatomical structure, its location and location uncertainty matrix is estimated in subsequent frames relative to the reference anatomical structures. A shape model is generated to represent dynamics of the deformable shape in subsequent image frames. The shape model includes statistical information from a training data set of 3D images of representative anatomical structures. The shape model is aligned to the deformable shape of the candidate anatomical structure. The shape model is fused with the deformable shape.

Abstract: In time-resolved contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography, a measure quantifying image quality provides a basis for generating a linear filtered composite image by facilitating selection of a mask and an arterial phase image for subtraction. Filtering of individual pixels of a temporal series of images provides enhanced contrast in a single image by allowing the temporal behavior of the pixel intensity to denote representation as an artery, vein or background tissue. Motion artifacts are suppressed by re-registering sequential images, adjusting weighting before averaging and subtraction and filtering the Fourier data to eliminate data corrupted by motion or other phenomena.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for the central control of devices used during an operation, comprising a first control unit for control of said devices. The system is characterized in that a second control unit is provided which is connected to the first control unit for exchange of information. The first control unit may be embodied as closed system for control of at least those devices which carry out safety-related functions (safety-related devices), and the second control unit may be embodied as open system for control of the remaining devices which carry out non safety-related functions (non safety-related devices). The invention further relates to a method for the central control of devices.

Abstract: A healthcare management system and method identify individuals at risk of high near-term healthcare use. On step of the method includes collecting information from an individual for a predetermined set of predictive factors. Another step of the method includes assigning, based upon the information from the individual, a separate value to each predictive factor of the predetermined set of predictive factors. The method further includes the step of generating, based upon a predetermined predictive model and the separate values assigned to the predetermined set of predictive factors, a risk level of the individual utilizing healthcare services at a predetermined level within a prospective time span.

Abstract: The invention relates to an angiographic x-ray diagnostic apparatus with an x-ray radiator having an x-ray tube, with a patient positioning table having a radiation-transparent positioning plate and mattress, with an x-ray detector, with an imaging system, an image processing unit and a measuring device to which the output signals of the x-ray detector are fed and which has a first device for determining a value determining the reproduction quality of clinically relevant objects, a second device for determining local variances of the noise in a homogenous image region of different x-ray images and a device for taking the ratio of the output values of the two devices.

Abstract: System and method for automatically extracting at least one region of a first type of bone tissue from a target bone. A digital radiograph image with the target bone is received. Based on the digital radiograph image, at least one region of a first type of bone tissue is automatically identified or extracted. This region can then be utilized for different purposes, such as assessment, qualitative assessment, quantitative assessment, analysis, spatial domain analysis, frequency domain analysis, and calculation of one or more target bone features.

Abstract: One embodiment discloses a computerized method of facilitating cardiac intervention, comprising inputting patient data, creating a computerized interactive model of a diseased heart based on the patient data, wherein the model comprises structural elements, simulating at least one proposed cardiac intervention treatment by adding or deleting structural elements to the model, and determining the effects of the proposed cardiac simulation upon the entire model. Simulations may be repeated to allow the user to determine an optimal cardiac intervention. Additionally, a template may be created from the model to use as a guide during the cardiac intervention.

Abstract: The present invention provides a mmode imaging method and apparatus for an ultrasonic diagnosis device to increase the continuity of the displayed mmode images. The mmode imaging method of the invention comprises steps: define a sample line on a frame of bmode image, so as to select bmode data of sample points constituting the sample line; convert the bmode data of the sample points obtained from two consecutive frames of bmode image into two of mmode lines arranged in time order in a mmode image; at predetermined positions between the two mmode lines, generate mmode data that constitute at least one mmode lines based on the echo data of corresponding sample points on the two mmode lines; and image the mmode data in time sequence.

Abstract: A method for designating a region of interest from volume data of a subject. When a user clicks a mouse to specify designation points, a CPU generates a curved surface including the designation points. The CPU executes a hidden surface removal process on the curved surface to generate a plotted region, sets a thickness for the plotted region, and determines the region of interest. The CPU performs MIP processing on the region of interest and a region of interest re-designating process on the MIP image. In the region of interest re-designating process, the user clicks the mouse on the MIP image, and the CPU determines the MIP position of the clicked position. The CPU sets the MIP position as a new designation point, and re-specifies a new region of interest by performing a region of interest designating process based on the new designation point.

Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, a method for calculating a response value at a first voxel indicative of a global shape in an image is provided. The method includes the steps of (a) determining at least one local shape descriptor associated with each of the at least one local shape descriptor; (b) determining a spread function associated with the each of the at least one local shape descriptor; (c) determining second voxels around the first voxel; (d) calculating values for each the at least one local shape descriptor at each of the second voxels; (e) determining a contribution of each of the second voxels at the first voxel based on the spread functions; and (f) using a combination function to combine the contributions to determine the response value indicative of the global shape.

Abstract: CAD (computer-aided decision) support systems, methods and tools for medical imaging are provided, which use machine learning classification for automated detection and marking of regions of interest in medical images. Machine learning methods are used for adapting/optimizing a CAD process by seamlessly incorporating physician knowledge into the CAD process using training data that is obtained during routine use of the CAD system.

Abstract: One embodiment discloses a computerized method of facilitating cardiac intervention, comprising inputting patient data, creating a computerized interactive model of a heart based on the patient data, wherein the model comprises features, simulating at least one proposed cardiac intervention treatment by adding or deleting features to the model, and determining the effects of the proposed cardiac simulation upon the entire model. Simulations may be repeated to allow the user to determine an optimal cardiac intervention. Additionally, a template may be created from the model to use as a guide during the cardiac intervention.

Abstract: An image processing method for processing a sequence of images of a distortable 3-D Object, each image being registered at a corresponding image instant within the interval of time of the sequence having steps to construct and display an image of said 3-D Object represented with regions, each region showing a quantified indication relating to its maximal contraction or relaxation within said interval of time. Each region of the constructed and displayed image is attributed a respective color of a color coded scale that is function of the calculated quantified indication relating to the maximum of contraction or relaxation of said region. The quantified indications may be the instant when a face or region has had its maximum of contraction or relaxation; or the phase value corresponding to said maximum; or the delay to attain said maximum.

Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which a specialized back-projection process reconstructs a finely detailed and crisp three-dimensional image (3-D) from a series of two-dimensional (2-D) images by pre-filtering the 2-D images with a first group of settings before back-projecting the 2-D images into a 3-D image, and then post-filtering the 3-D image with another group of settings. In some embodiments, the first group of settings and the second group of settings are synergistically optimized in relation to each other to provide emphasis on a structure of interest in the object.

Abstract: This invention provides a method and apparatus for selectively identifying, and targeting with an energy beam, specific cells within a cell population, for the purpose of inducing a response in the targeted cells. Using the present invention, every detectable cell in a population can be identified and affected, without substantially affecting non-targeted cells within the mixture.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes one or more cameras to determine a three dimensional (3D) model of a person; means to detect a dangerous condition based on the 3D model; and means to generate a warning when the dangerous condition is detected.

Abstract: A prospective abnormal shadow detecting system detects a prospective abnormal shadow in an image on the basis of image data representing the image and outputs information on the prospective abnormal shadow detected by the prospective abnormal shadow detecting means. Whether the detected prospective abnormal shadow is malignant or benignant is judged, and the information on the prospective abnormal shadow is output in such a manner that whether the prospective abnormal shadow is malignant or benignant can be distinguished.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method, system and computer software product for detecting a fiducial in digital projection images, particularly for detecting a fiducial in digital X-ray images automatically, without any operations required of the user. The invention for detecting the image of a fiducial positioned in a digital projection image is characterized in that for at least part of the digital projection image pixels, there is calculated a direction of the intensity gradient; there is defined a region of the projection image, on the basis of the directions of the intensity gradients, where the direction of the intensity gradient is changed according to predetermined limits; and there is defined a matching rate for how well the model describing the image of the predetermined fiducial matches the defined region.

Abstract: A method of determining the size and/or placement of a prosthetic disc in a disc space between adjacent endplates of two vertebrae in a selected spinal area, comprising: using a computer to identify the disc space parameters of height, width, depth and lordosis between the adjacent vertebral endplates; using a computer to create an artificial volume corresponding to an actual prosthetic disc that can be positioned in the disc space in accordance with a manufacturer's size and lordosis specifications for prosthesis; using a computer to determine the center of the disc space and the center of rotation of the prosthetic disc volume; using a computer to position the prosthetic disc volume in the disc space such that the center of rotation of the prosthetic disc volume is positioned posterior to the center of the disc space; and using a computer to determine the prosthetic disc volume that fits within the disc space in accordance with a surgeon's or manufacturer's specification for prosthesis.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for locating an imaging device within or outside of the body and for displaying a graphical representation of the imaging pattern associated with the imaging device within a global representation of the body. The imaging pattern characterizes the “field of vision” of the imaging device, and the graphical imaging pattern within the global representation of the body visually indicates the portion of the body that is being imaged by the imaging device in relation to the global representation of the body.

Abstract: An examination system and a corresponding examination method, comprise: Arranging a tissue region in a vicinity of an object plane of a microscope and generating an optical image of the tissue region, receiving tissue data from a measuring head separate from the microscope, discriminating the tissue data into at least two data categories and displaying markings in the optical image of the tissue region in dependence of the discriminated data category and a relative position between a component of the microscope and the measuring head.