[comp.graphics] CALL FOR DISCUSSION: Formation of sci.med.physics

james@rover.bsd.uchicago.edu (04/27/89)

First, I  would like to thank the people who responded favorably to the idea 
for creation of the group.  I feel that there is enough interest that I sent 
for the general guidelines for creation of a newsgroup, and will now begin to 
follow them:

(The following is only slightly different from my original postings):

I  would like to call for a discussion on formation of a Medical Physics 
newsgroup (perhaps Sci.Med.Phys), which would deal with most applications of 
Physics in Medicine.  Based on my own experiences in medical imaging and in the 
Graduate Program in Medical Physics that I am currently in, I would like to see 
features generally related to imaging and radiation therapy, but I can easily 
see the applicatbility to biophysics and related fields.  Topics that I could 
contribute to a discussion of would include:

Basic interactions of radiation with matter
"                                  " living systems

Methods of Generating diagnostic information (eg. design of imaging systems)
This includes:

	NMR (MRI) imaging systems
	CT (computed tomography)
	Projection Radiography (including angiography and the new MEGAVOLTAGE
	imaging systems in Radiation therapy, as well as computed Radiography)
	Ultrasound
	Nuclear medicine imaging systems (eg. Gamma Camera, PET, SPECT,...)
	Thermography
	All fields of analysis applied to medical images
	PACS and other diagnostic information communications systems
	So on


Methods used in Radiation therapy, including:

	Simulation and verification methods
	2D and 3D treatment planning
	Electrons, protons and assorted heavy ions
	Neutron therapy
	Quality assurance
	Brachytherapy
	Monoclonal Antibody imaging/treatment methods

	I know that many members of the AAPM (American Association of 
Physicists in Medicine) have access to NEWS.  There is available a 
generic INTERNET mailing list, but I think it would be nice to:

	a) open discussion of ineteresting Medical Physics topics to interested
	   persons outside of the field
	b) Let members on the list select what they wish to read

	At this point, I welcome all commentary on the possible formation of 
this group.  Comments should be addressed to NEWS.GROUPS, and future commentary 
can be found there.  The period for comments will be two weeks, after which a 
call for votes will probably be made.

Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely,

James Balter
James@rover.Uchicago.edu
"If the hat fits, slice it!"