Rapid detection of spatial pattern by Fourier analysis.
Fast Fourier transform analysis can be used to accurately and rapidly detect pattern in large two-dimensional arrangements of points, such as the locations of cells in culture or plants in a unit square. We present here a sample study of pattern in spatial random point processes. This is evidently the first time that Fourier transform-based cross-correlation techniques have been applied to the analysis of point processes of biological origin. Radial profiles of the power spectra and autocorrelation estimates revealed a nearly constant interpore distance of 0.49 +/- 0.04 mm in the locations of eccrine gland pores on the surface of human skin. Additionally, gland-free areas may exist near hair follicles.
Cullander
C
C
Department of Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco.
Baker
J R
JR
Budinger
T F
TF
D000465:Algorithms; D001185:Artificial Intelligence; D004439:Eccrine Glands / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D005583:Fourier Analysis; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008838:Microcomputers