Projects are underway in a number of areas related to medical imaging, image processing and novel scanning techniques using Doppler shift effects. All of these are built on the fundamentals of wave propagation combined with signal and image processing techniques. Many projects are undertaken in joint facilities of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Imaging Sciences at the University of Rochester Medical Center.
Sonoelasticity Imaging: This novel hybrid imaging technique that uses Doppler ultrasound to map out, or image, the local vibrations within tissues or structures that are excited by shear wave oscillations at low frequencies (10-1000Hz typically). The concept is that stiff tumors surrounded by soft tissues will present abnormal vibration amplitudes and can therefore be detected. Initial results have been encouraging and applications to the analysis of structures may also be possible. Details are at http://www.ece.rochester.edu/projects/sonoelasticity.
Three-Dimensional (3-D) Medical Imaging: The major imaging modalities (CT, MRI, and Ultrasound) are now capable of 3-D data acquisition. The visualization, segmentation and quantification of 3-D, low-contrast tissue requires many advanced techniques. Our group has developed multidimensional processing and display techniques for 3-D and 4-D medical images. For a good look at applications see http://www.virtualscopics.com/ta-oncology.aspx/.
Blue Noise Mask: Invented by Professor Parker and Theophano Mitsa, PhD, blue noise refers to an unstructured pattern with negligible low-frequency noise components that produce a fine, visually appealing arrangement of dots. Researchers at the University of Rochester designed the Blue Noise Mask with substantial computer power and several years of hard work. The Mask was introduced to graphics and other industries in 1991. At that time, it was a leap forward in halftoning technology and was the first method to combine high quality with virtually instantaneous halftoning. for more information, see Professor Parker's Blue Noise Mask page.
