Empowering Diversity in X-ray Imaging: Training, Graduate Research, and Advancements in Detector Development

摘要 心血管疾病（CVD）是全球死亡的主要原因。根据美国心脏 协会，为早期治疗心血管疾病，并验证患者是否应该处方他汀类药物治疗，钙 应通过心脏计算机断层扫描（CT）进行评分。然而，有一个有限的应用， 由于CT空间分辨率有限（~1 mm）、剂量问题和自付费用， 患者为了应对CT钙评分的挑战，一种基于双层平板的新技术 探测器正在我们的R 01下开发“一个双层平板X射线探测器的基础上工程 用于定量冠状动脉钙的无定形硫属化物合金”以提供机会性钙评分 只要X光一出来该技术旨在为X射线成像提供一种机会性方法， 检测器，可改善冠状动脉钙（CAC）的检测和定量。它是基于一项专利 待处理的硒合金具有良好的光学和电学特性，可提高图像质量。每当X- 由于任何原因进行X射线检查，自动生成钙评分，而不会给患者带来额外的成本负担。 医疗保健系统。将拟议的技术从一个运作中的原型提高到所需的就绪水平 对于原始设备制造商（OEM）的许可，存在与一致性和变化性相关的区域 检测器和产量，应进行评价和评估。 在这个多元化的补充，我们将带来一个博士学位。候选人从高能物理过渡到 利用他在探测器模拟和读出系统方面的专业知识， （c）增加原资助项目目标1所建议的双层探测器读出电路的能力。候选 将开发对探测器架构和平板读出技术的修改，用于顶层的 双层探测器，允许应用更高的电场，以实现更高的转换效率。 补充将提供所需的资金，以支持学生在这方面，给他指导， 在医学成像领域的经验，同时推进母项目的目标，以开发一个双层 用于CAC检测。

ABSTRACT Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally. According to the American Heart Association, for early treatment of CVD and to verify if a patient should be prescribed statin therapy, calcium scoring via cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) should be performed. However, there is a limited application of calcium scoring due to limited spatial resolution of CT (~1 mm), dose concern, and out of pocket expense for patients. To address the challenges with CT calcium scoring, a new technology based on dual-layer flat panel detector is being developed under our R01 “A dual-layer flat panel X-ray detector based on an engineered amorphous chalcogenide alloy for quantifying coronary artery calcium” to provide opportunistic calcium score whenever X-ray is done. This technology aims to provide an opportunistic approach to X-ray imaging with a detector that improves detection and quantification of coronary artery calcium (CAC). It is based on a patent pending selenium alloy with favorable optical and electrical properties that enhance image quality. Whenever X- ray is done for any reason calcium score automatically is generated with no additional cost burden to the healthcare system. To advance the proposed technology from a functioning prototype to readiness level required for licensing to the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), there are areas related to uniformity and variation across detector and yield that should be evaluated and assessed. In this diversity supplement, we will bring on a Ph.D. candidate making the transition from high energy physics to medical imaging, utilizing his expertise in detector simulation and readout systems to enable additional capability to the readout circuitry of the dual-layer detector proposed in aim 1 of the parent grant. The candidate will develop modifications to the detector architecture and flat panel readout technology for the top layer of the dual-layer detector, allowing the application of higher electric fields to achieve improved conversion efficiencies. The supplement will provide the funding required to support the student in this area, giving him mentoring and experience in the medical imaging field, while advancing the goals of the parent project to develop a dual-layer for CAC detection.