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Gamma-Ray Focusing Optics for Small Animal ImagingThere is a well-established need for high-resolution radionuclide imaging techniques that provide non-invasive measurement of physiological function in small animals. We, therefore, have begun developing a small animal radionuclide imaging system using grazing incidence mirrors to focus low-energy gamma-rays emitted by I-125, and other radionuclides. Our initial prototype optic, fabricated from thermally-formed glass, demonstrated a resolution of 1500 microns, consistent with the performance predicted by detailed simulations. More recently, we have begun constructing mirrors using a replication technique that reduces low spatial frequency errors in the mirror surface, greatly improving the resolution. Each technique offers particular advantages: e.g., multilayer coatings are easily deposited on glass, while superior resolution is possible with replicated optics. Scaling the results from our prototype optics, which only have a few nested shells, to system where the lens has a full complement of several tens of nested shells, a sensitivity of approx. 1 cps/micro Ci is possible, with the exact number dependent on system magnification and radionuclide species. (Higher levels of efficiency can be obtained with multi-optic imaging systems.) The gamma-ray lens will achieve a resolution as good as 100 microns, independent of the final sensitivity. The combination of high spatial resolution and modest sensitivity will enable in vivo single photon emission imaging studies in small animals.
Document ID
20040161576
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Pivovaroff, M. J.
Barber, W. C.
Craig, W. W.
Hasegawa, B. H.
Ramsey, B. D.
Taylor, C.
Date Acquired
August 22, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2004
Subject Category
Optics
Meeting Information
Meeting: IEEE Rome 2004 Medical Imaging Conference
Location: Rome
Country: Italy
Start Date: October 16, 2004
End Date: October 22, 2004
Sponsors: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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