Computer programs for neuroanatomy: Three-dimensional reconstruction and analysis of populations of cortical neurons and other bodies with a laminar distribution

• Published in: Computers in biology and medicine Vol. 18; no. 5; pp. 321 - 340
• Main Authors: Blackstad, T.W., Bjaalie, J.G.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Ltd 1988
• Subjects: Algorithms; Animals; Cats; Cerebral cortex; Cerebral Cortex - cytology; Computer Graphics; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted - methods; Microtomy; Neuroanatomy windowing; Pattern Recognition, Automated; Programming Languages; Serial sections; Software; Software Design; Three-dimensional reconstruction; Unfolding; Unfolding; Serial sections; Cerebral cortex; Neuroanatomy windowing; Three-dimensional reconstruction; Computer graphics
• ISSN: 0010-4825; 1879-0534
• DOI: 10.1016/0010-4825(88)90020-0

The program is designed for analysis of serial microtome sections containing biological structures (bodies, particles), each of which may be represented as one point. Any subset of sections may quickly be selected for reconstruction. In addition to rotation, translation, scaling etc. two particular features are offered. (1) Section-independent parts of reconstructions may be isolated (“windows”) and then reconstructed, analyzed and subdivided, like the parent data. (2) Curved, bandshaped parts may be unfolded, for inspection of distribution pattern, determination of density etc. The program is written in Pascal (source 121 Kb, compiled program 65 Kb). User-friendliness, robustness and speed were key aims.