Science for Medical Imaging
| Module title | Science for Medical Imaging |
|---|---|
| Module code | PAM2011 |
| Academic year | 2023/4 |
| Credits | 15 |
| Module staff | Dr Clare Thorn (Convenor) Dr Beth McGill (Convenor) |
| Duration: Term | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration: Weeks | 11 | 0 | 3 |
| Number students taking module (anticipated) | 64 |
|---|
Module description
This module builds on PAM1020 to include the scientific principles behind the imaging modalities of ultrasound, nuclear medicine and magnetic resonance imaging. This module underpins PAM2013 Medical Imaging Applications.
Module aims - intentions of the module
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 you with sufficient knowledge of introductory radiation biology and physics to allow you an appreciation of safe and optimal use of radiation imaging techniques.
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
ILO: Module-specific skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 1. acknowledge more complex mathematical operations, including plotting and manipulation of various functions;
- 2. analyse simple oscillatory motion, relating this to electromagnetic and particulate phenomenon pertinent to medical imaging;
- 3. construct schematic circuits and explain magnetic fields, beginning with charge distributions and motion;
- 4. understand radiation dosimetry, the principles of dose calculation, and the significance of radiation dose;
- 5. understand radiobiological principles at both whole body and cellular/molecular level, with an emphasis on radiation protection;
ILO: Discipline-specific skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 6. display mathematical skills sufficient to support Stage-two work;
- 7. use appropriate sources of information to develop own knowledge;
ILO: Personal and key skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 8. manage time and, with some guidance, prioritise workloads;
- 9. use problem-solving skills in practical situations.
Syllabus plan
Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, an example of an overall structure is as follows:
Mathematical skills
The number e and exponential functions, graphs of exponential functions.
Logarithmic functions, graphs of logarithmic functions.
Trigonometric functions, graphs of trigonometric functions.
Rates of change: graphs and gradients, concept of derivatives.
The area under a graph, concept of integrals.
Vibrations and waves
Simple harmonic motion and resonance.
Travelling waves: the wave equation, superposition and interference.
Doppler effect.
Electromagnetic waves: electric and magnetic fields; the speed of light.
Sound waves: acoustic pressure and particle displacement, the speed of sound.
Decibels.
Electricity and magnetism
Electric charge and the Coulomb force.
Electric field and electric potential.
Magnets and magnetic fields.
Magnetic force on a moving charge and on a current element.
AC circuits: impedance and phase angle.
Digital electronics: ADC
The effects of radiation on human tissue
Biological effects of radiation
Radiation-matter interaction
Molecular and cellular radiobiology.
Radiation dosimetry, dosimeters, and detectors
Radiation Protection
Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)
| Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities | Guided independent study | Placement / study abroad |
|---|---|---|
| 23 | 127 | 0 |
Details of learning activities and teaching methods
| Category | Hours of study time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities | 23 | 3×3-hour practical sessions 14x1-hour seminars |
| Guided independent study | 17 | Online directed learning activities |
| Guided independent study | 110 | Reading, private study and revision |
Summative assessment (% of credit)
| Coursework | Written exams | Practical exams |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 50 | 50 |
Details of summative assessment
| Form of assessment | % of credit | Size of the assessment (eg length / duration) | ILOs assessed | Feedback method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practical work (lab report) | 50 | 1500 words | 1-9 | Written and verbal. |
| Examination | 50 | 90 minutes | 1-9 | iExeter and ELE |
| 0 | ||||
| 0 | ||||
| 0 | ||||
| 0 | ||||
| 0 |
Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)
| Original form of assessment | Form of re-assessment | ILOs re-assessed | Timescale for re-assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lab report 50% | Lab report (1500 words) (50%) | 1-9 | August/September assessment period |
| Written examination 50% | Written examination (90 minutes) (50%) | 1-9 | August/September assessment period |
Indicative learning resources - Basic reading
The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of information that students are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Instructor(s).
- Graham D.T., Cloke P. and Vosper M. (2012), Principles and Applications of Radiological Physics (6th edition), Churchill Livingstone, ISBN 9780702052156
Indicative learning resources - Web based and electronic resources
Indicative learning resources - Other resources
- Bushong S. (2017), Radiologic Science for Technologists (10th edition), Elsevier, ISBN 9780323353779
- Dendy P.P. and Heaton B. (2011), Physics for Diagnostic Radiology (3rd edition), Taylor and Francis, ISBN 9781420083156
- Young H.D., Freedman R.A. and Ford A.L. (2016), Sears and Zemansky’s University Physics with Modern Physics Technology Update (14th edition), Addison-Wesley, ISBN 9781292100326
| Credit value | 15 |
|---|---|
| Module ECTS | 7.5 |
| NQF level (module) | 5 |
| Available as distance learning? | No |
| Origin date | 01/09/2004 |
| Last revision date | 24/02/2023 |
