title: Use of the Hotelling observer to optimize image reconstruction in digital breast tomosynthesis.
abstract: We propose an implementation of the Hotelling observer that can be applied to the optimization of linear image reconstruction algorithms in digital breast tomosynthesis. The method is based on considering information within a specific region of interest, and it is applied to the optimization of algorithms for detectability of microcalcifications. Several linear algorithms are considered: simple back-projection, filtered back-projection, back-projection filtration, and [Formula: see text]-tomography. The optimized algorithms are then evaluated through the reconstruction of phantom data. The method appears robust across algorithms and parameters and leads to the generation of algorithm implementations which subjectively appear optimized for the task of interest.
authors.affiliation: University of Chicago , Department of Radiology, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago 60615, United States.
authors.forename: Adrian A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Sánchez
authors.affiliation: University of Chicago , Department of Radiology, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago 60615, United States.
authors.forename: Emil Y
authors.initials: EY
authors.lastname: Sidky
authors.affiliation: University of Chicago , Department of Radiology, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago 60615, United States ; University of Chicago , Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology, 5758 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago 60615, United States.
authors.forename: Xiaochuan
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Pan
keywords: Hotelling observer; digital breast tomosynthesis; image quality; image reconstruction; objective assessment