Signal Analysis, Image Coding, and Processing
Section Collection Information
Dear colleagues,
Signal analysis, image coding, and processing encompass a range of techniques vital in extracting
meaningful information from various forms of data, particularly in fields like medical imaging and
computer vision. In healthcare, biomedical signal analysis with machine intelligence is an
interdisciplinary field that combines the principles of biomedical signal processing and machine
learning to extract meaningful information from various physiological signals generated by the human
body. These signals can include data from sources like electrocardiography (ECG or EKG),
electromyography (EMG), electroencephalography (EEG), medical imaging (e.g., MRI, CT scans),
and more. The primary goal of biomedical signal analysis with machine intelligence is to assist
healthcare professionals in diagnosing diseases, monitoring patient health, and making informed
medical decisions, while also facilitating real-time monitoring and feedback, particularly in critical
care settings.
Complementing signal analysis, image coding is fundamental in medical imaging modalities like
computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. Efficient image
compression techniques ensure that medical images can be stored and transmitted without sacrificing
diagnostic quality, enabling quick access to patient data and facilitating remote consultation between
healthcare professionals, especially in telemedicine applications. Meanwhile, image processing
enhances medical images by refining quality, eliminating noise, and extracting critical information.
These enhancements empower radiologists to detect and characterize abnormalities, such as tumors
and fractures, contributing to precise diagnosis and treatment planning. Additionally, image processing
aids in medical image registration, aligning images from diverse modalities for comprehensive
analysis.
Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning have further revolutionized
signal analysis and image processing in healthcare. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of medical
data with unprecedented accuracy, leading to improved diagnostic accuracy and personalized treatment
plans. However, challenges such as data privacy concerns, interoperability issues, and the need for
standardized protocols remain.