PAM2011 Science for Medical Imaging

2007-2008

Code: PAM2011
Title: Science for Medical Imaging
Instructors: Dr J.J. Moger
CATS credits: 15
ECTS credits: 7.5
Availability: B821 only
Level: 2
Pre-requisites: N/A
Co-requisites: N/A
Background Assumed: Introduction to Radiation Physics (PAM1014)
Duration: Weeks 1-5, 7-10, 21-24
Directed Study Time: 30 hours
Private Study Time: 117 hours
Assessment Tasks Time: 3 hours
Observation report: 2006/07 KMK

Aims

This module aims to develop a range of basic mathematical skills and knowledge of the essential science which underpins the various imaging modalities. The module also aims to provide sufficient knowledge of introductory radiation biology and physics to allow students an appreciation of safe and optimal use of radiation imaging techniques.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students should be able to:

Module Specific Skills

• produce graphs of functional variations;
• analyse simple oscillatory motion, relating this to electromagnetic and particulate phenomenon pertinent to medical imaging;
• construct schematic circuits and explain magnetic fields, beginning with charge distributions and motion;
• use concepts in radiation dosimetry to perform dose calculations;
• discuss the biological effects of radiation at both whole body and cellular/molecular level;

Discipline Specific Skills

• display mathematical skills sufficient to support Stage-two work;
• use appropriate sources of information to develop own knowledge;

Personal and Key Skills

• manage time and, with some guidance, prioritise workloads;
• use problem-solving skills in practical situations.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Lectures (21×1hour) and practical work (9 hours). Directed background reading.

Assignments

To be specified.

Assessment

One 45-minute test (20% week 7), one 45-minute test (20% week 10), nine hours of practical work (10%), one 90-minute exam (50%).

Syllabus Plan and Content

1. Mathematical skills
   1. Exponential functions, the number e, graphs of exponential functions.
   2. Logarithmic functions, antilogarithms, graphs of logarithmic functions.
   3. Trigonometric functions, graphs of trigonometric functions.
   4. Rates of change: graphs and gradients, concept of function and derivatives.
   5. The area under a graph, concept of function and integral.
2. Vibrations and waves
   1. Simple harmonic motion and resonance.
   2. Travelling waves: the wave equation, superposition and interference.
   3. Doppler effect.
   4. Electromagnetic waves: electric and magnetic fields; the speed of light.
   5. Sound waves: acoustic pressure and particle displacement, the speed of sound.
   6. Decibels.
3. Electricity and magnetism
   1. Electric charge and the Coulomb force.
   2. Electric field and electric potential.
   3. Magnets and magnetic fields.
   4. Magnetic force on a moving charge and on a current element.
   5. AC circuits: impedance and phase angle.
   6. Digital electronics: ADC
4. The effects of radiation on human tissue
   1. Biological effects of radiation
   2. Radiation-matter interaction
   3. Molecular and cellular radiobiology.
   4. Radiation dosimetry, dosimeters, and detectors
   5. Radiation Protection
5. Interprofessional Work

Core Text

Graham D.T. and Cloke P. (2003), Principles of Radiological Physics (4^th edition), Churchill Livingstone, ISBN 0-443-07073-3 (UL: 610.28 GRA)

Supplementary Text(s)

Dendy P.P. and Heaton B. (1999), Physics for Diagnostic Radiology, Institute of Physics Publishing, ISBN 0-750-30591-6 (UL: WN 400 DEN)
Young H.D. and Freedman R.A. (2000), University Physics (with Modern Physics) (10^th edition), Addison-Wesley, ISBN 0-201-60336-5 (UL: 530 YOU)

Formative Mechanisms

Students can monitor their understanding of the module by attempting practice examination questions. Students with specific problems are encouraged to approach the lecturer. In addition, students are able to monitor their own progress in the practical sessions.

Evaluation Mechanisms

The module will be evaluated using information gathered via the student representation mechanisms, the staff peer appraisal scheme, and measures of student attainment based on summative assessment.