[Quantitative measuring method for fibers using image processing and analysis].
Previously, the radioisotope labeling and morphometric techniques have been used for the quantitative determination of growth of mandibular condyle by measuring the DNA synthesis or the increased number of cells. However, it is difficult to analyze the dynamics of ESFs (Elastic System Fibers) in the mandibular condyle related to aging, because of changes in the amount, distribution, number of fibers, and density of ESFs. In the present study, therefore, the video-scanning image analyzing technique was used for the quantitative measurement of ESFs in the mouse mandibular condyle. The objects under selected suitable illumination are scanned and focused by the TV camera and lens. The focused image is converted and amplified to obtain the most reliable electric signal by sequential scanning with the relative electronic beam. The original shaded image (electric signals) generated and converted by photo electric converter was filtered by the input slope (detective sensitivity) to detect the relative objects. Next, by inputted contrast, a secondary black-and-white image was detected. Meanwhile, a suitable compensation was also used to eliminate electric noise and dusts by inputting size discrimination. The next step was designed to obtain various quantitative data by measuring areas and diameters of the relative objects after treatment and analyzing of the secondary image, which was outputted from the photo electric converter. The connected LED display showed the measured and counted data, and at the same time the obtained data was automatically printed out for recording. There are many samples that are impossible to distinguish without using specific staining methods, like the ESFs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)