Evaluation of energy spectral information in nuclear imaging and investigation of protein binding of radiogallium. Progress report, October 1, 1980-September 30, 1981

Most of the planned modifications on the gamma camera-computer interface are completed. These modifications will allow to determine the contribution of scatter radiation to inaccuracies in cardiac volume and ejection fraction determinations and allow for correction of these inaccuracies. The modifications will also allow testing of the weighted window imaging concept. Specific accomplishments include construction of an energy interface between ZLC-75 camera and DEC gamma 11/34 computer and development and testing of new programs to allow region of interest energy analysis and determination of photopeak and scatter contributions. A new type of converging collimator was built and is being tested which corrects for tissue attenuation at the average cardiac ventricular depth and may prove useful in cardiac chamber volume estimates. A new generator system using a /sup 195m/Hg parent to produce a /sup 195m/Au daughter which will be useful for cardiac studies is being evaluated. The mechanisms by which Ga-67 localizes in abscess and tumor were further elucidated by demonstrating that Ga-67 can transfer from transferrin to ferritin directly. This transfer is facilitated by certain mediators, especially the organic phosphates and does not appear to be energy dependent. A method of labelling viable bacteria with 111In oxine was developed, and the exact role of siderophores in Ga-67 uptake in bacteria and also Ga-67 uptake in monocytes are being investigated