[Cell image analysis on the PDP-12 computer: a software system for processing the image information from a scanning microscope photometer (author's transl)]

Abstract

A system of computer programs is introduced which allows image analyzing of cytological or histological preparations. The software system was especially developed for a microprocessor (PDP-12, Digital Equipment Corporation) which is often implied in connection with microscope photometers (SMP 05, Carl Zeiss). Users need not to know anything about computer programming because the computer gives the necessary orders via CRT-display or printer. The different descriptors as they are available after different cytochemical or histochemical staining procedures are combined to a pattern vector which is to be a numerical equivalent of cell morphology. A novel method in numerically describing the fine structure of cell nuclei is emphasized. Different cell populations are compared by means of a simplified multivariate discrimiatory analysis. All programs are written in assembler language and they are stored on LINC tapes (Digital Equipment Corporation). Copies of system tapes respectively tapes with the source programs are available from the authors on sending of blank magnetic tapes (2,000 blocks marked). Description and print out of individual programs are published in the dissertation cited in References. Changes and additions of the system which have been done mean-while will be summarized, and lateron such summaries are available on request.