Collimator width Optimization in X-ray Luminescent Computed Tomography

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Date
2013-06-17
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Publisher
Virginia Tech
Abstract

X-ray Luminescent Computed Tomography (XLCT) is a new imaging modality which is under extensive trials at present. The modality works by selective excitation of X-ray sensitive nanophosphors and detecting the optical signal thus generated. This system can be used towards recreating high quality tomographic slices even with low X-ray dose. There have been many studies which have reported successful validation of the underlying philosophy. However, there is still lack of information about optimal settings or combination of imaging parameters, which could yield best outputs. Research groups participating in this area have reported results on basis of dose, signal to noise ratio or resolution only.

In this thesis, the candidate has evaluated XLCT taking into consideration noise and resolution in terms of composite indices. Simulations have been performed for various beam widths and noise & resolution metrics deduced. This information has been used in evaluating quality of images on basis of CT Figure of Merit & a modified Wang-Bovik Image Quality index. Simulations indicate the presence of an optimal setting which can be set prior to extensive scans. The conducted study, although focusing on a particular implementation, hopes to establish a paradigm in finding best settings for any XLCT system. Scanning with an optimal setting preconfigured can help in vastly reducing the cost and risks involved with this imaging modality.

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Keywords
X-ray Luminescence, Computed Tomography, Monte Carlo Methods
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