Evaluation of Multivariate Visualization on a Multivariate Task.

Multivariate visualization techniques have attracted great interest as the dimensionality of data sets grows. One premise of such techniques is that simultaneous visual representation of multiple variables will enable the data analyst to detect patterns amongst multiple variables. Such insights could lead to development of new techniques for rigorous (numerical) analysis of complex relationships hidden within the data.

Modeling the behavior of uveal melanoma in the liver.

Purpose: To model the behavior of uveal melanoma in the liver.

Methods: A 15-muL suspension of metastatic MUM2B or either primary OCM1 or M619 uveal melanoma cells was injected into the liver parenchyma of 105 CB17 SCID mice through a 1-cm abdominal incision. Animals were killed at 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks after injection.

Comparing vasculogenic mimicry with endothelial cell-lined vessels: techniques for 3D reconstruction and quantitative analysis of tissue components from archival paraffin blocks.

We previously described techniques to generate 3-dimensional reconstructions of the tumor microcirculation using immunofluorescence histochemistry and laser scanning confocal microscopy on serial sections from archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. By aligning sequential z-stacks in an immersive visualization environment (ImmersaDesk), the need to insert fiduciary markers into tissue was eliminated. In this study, we developed methods to stitch overlapping confocal z-series together to extend the surface area of interest well beyond that captured by the confocal microscope objective and developed methods to quantify the distribution of markers of interest in 3 dimensions.

Visualization of large-scale confocal data using computer cluster.

A virtual reality system with remote computer cluster for interactive three-dimensional reconstruction and alignment of large confocal microscopy data is presented. It provides the flexibility and the accumulated power of computer cluster for this specific application.

Cranial implant design using augmented reality immersive system.

Software tools that utilize haptics for sculpting precise fitting cranial implants are utilized in an augmented reality immersive system to create a virtual working environment for the modelers. The virtual environment is designed to mimic the traditional working environment as closely as possible, providing more functionality for the users. The implant design process uses patient CT data of a defective area.

Simulation of eye disease in virtual reality.

It is difficult to understand verbal descriptions of visual phenomenon if one has no such experience. Virtual Reality offers a unique opportunity to "experience" diminished vision and the problems it causes in daily life. We have developed an application to simulate age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, protanopia, and diabetic retinopathy in a familiar setting.

Haptic rendering of volumetric data for cranial implant modeling.

A force feedback algorithm for cranial implant design is presented in this paper. The algorithm is applied directly on volumetric data. It is a proxy-based algorithm, and a spherical proxy is used to accurately calculate the force between the sculpting tool and the skull.

New tools for sculpting cranial implants in a shared haptic augmented reality environment.

New volumetric tools were developed for the design and fabrication of high quality cranial implants from patient CT data. These virtual tools replace time consuming physical sculpting, mold making and casting steps. The implant is designed by medical professionals in tele-immersive collaboration.

Reconstruction and exploration of three-dimensional confocal microscopy data in an immersive virtual environment.

An immersive virtual environment for interactive three-dimensional reconstruction and exploration of confocal microscopy data is presented. For some structures automatic alignment of serial sections can lead to geometric distortions. The superior visual feedback of a Virtual Reality system is used to aid in registering and aligning serial sections interactively.

Simulation of color deficiency in virtual reality.

Color deficiency protanopia is simulated in a virtual home environment. A color database is created to set the corresponding relation between each color for normal vision and for protanopia. Based on this database, a second texture system is set up for the home model.

Desktop and conference room VR for physicians.

Virtual environments such as the CAVE and the ImmersaDesk, which are based on graphics supercomputers or workstations, are large and expensive. Most physicians have no access to such systems. The recent development of small Linux personal computers and high-performance graphics cards has afforded opportunities to implement applications formerly run on graphics supercomputers.

Tele-Immersive medical educational environment.

By combining teleconferencing, tele-presence, and Virtual Reality, the Tele-Immersive environment enables master surgeons to teach residents in remote locations. The design and implementation of a Tele-Immersive medical educational environment, Teledu, is presented in this paper. Teledu defines a set of Tele-Immersive user interfaces for medical education.

The virtual nose: a 3-dimensional virtual reality model of the human nose.

Background: The 3-dimensionally complex interplay of soft tissue, cartilaginous, and bony elements makes the mastery of nasal anatomy difficult. Conventional methods of learning nasal anatomy exist, but they often involve a steep learning curve. Computerized models and virtual reality applications have been used to facilitate teaching in a number of other complex anatomical regions, such as the human temporal bone and pelvic floor.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of extravascular matrix patterns and blood vessels in human uveal melanoma tissue: techniques and preliminary findings.

Purpose: Looping patterns rich in laminin are present in tissue samples of primary aggressive human uveal melanomas and their metastases. Because these extravascular patterns connect to blood vessels and transmit fluid in vitro and in vivo, the three-dimensional configuration of these patterns has been the subject of considerable speculation. In the current study, methods were devised to describe the three-dimensional configuration of looping extravascular matrix patterns in archival human uveal melanoma tissue.

Virtual reality: new method of teaching anorectal and pelvic floor anatomy.

Purpose: A clear understanding of the intricate spatial relationships among the structures of the pelvic floor, rectum, and anal canal is essential for the treatment of numerous pathologic conditions. Virtual-reality technology allows improved visualization of three-dimensional structures over conventional media because it supports stereoscopic-vision, viewer-centered perspective, large angles of view, and interactivity. We describe a novel virtual reality-based model designed to teach anorectal and pelvic floor anatomy, pathology, and surgery.