Diagnosis and Classification of Pleural Diseases Using Ultrasound Channel Data

Background: The Pleura is a double-layered membrane that surrounds the lungs. Pathological processes that involve the Pleura are called "Pleural diseases". Among them are included Pneumothorax (Air the chest cavity), Pleural effusions, and tumor formation. Ultrasound imaging of the Pleura to detect and assess pleural diseases has been proven as an excellent diagnostic and safe option. Ultrasound test uses sound waves to characterize the structure and function of different organs in health and disease. The standard technique used to create two-dimensional ultrasound picture is called Delay and Sum (DAS). Signals are transmitted and received from a series of elements and allow a two dimensional picture to be created. Because a large number of sensors is required, creating a two dimensional picture creates a large and usually redundant data pool. This fact leads to a need for stronger processors and larger operating systems, Consumption of higher energy, and hence an ungainly, slow, and expensive system. Signal Acquisition Modeling and Processing Laboratory (SAMPLE) in Weizmann institute has developed a data processing system that allows narrowing down the number of elements needed to process the ultrasound signal, while creating an ultrasound picture of abdominal organs in a satisfying resolution. Sometimes even better than standard methods. Research goal: Improvement of diagnosis and characterization of pleural diseases by Ultrasound, using a novel algorithm that was developed in SAMPLE laboratory in Weizmann Institute. The aim is to create a faster, more reliable ultrasound imaging while minimizing sampling rate and data volume. Methods: Tested population: Women and/or men who were diagnosed with Pneumothorax or Plural effusion with other imaging modalities, and healthy volunteers as a control group, Up to 30 participants per each group (Total up to 90), in a 1:1:1 Ratio. Research type: An open-labeled study. Experimental design: Participants that will