Computer-aided microscopy in medicine: introduction to the 15 August 1987 issue of Applied Optics

New research and development opportunities and advances are evident in the multidisciplinary field of computer-aided microscopy for cell and tissue imaging and analysis. This growth applies to both the development of new and improved scientific methods as well as to the utilization of these techniques to investigate significant biomedical applications. Much of the core and supporting technology in this work involves optical and visual processes. Consequently, progress may be facilitated by stimulating the interaction between the optical scientists/engineers and the applications-oriented investigators. This 15 Aug. 1987 issue of Applied Optics presents a heterogeneous collection of papers in three sections: Scanning microscopy and related optical methodsfor cell and tissue imaging; Image cytometry/histometry systems, methods, and standards; and Biomedical applications of image cytometry and histometry. Since the purposes of this issue are to present a representative international cross-section of current research results and to provide direction and assistance to optical scientists and engineers who are interested in becoming more active in this field, this Introduction also documents relevant peer-reviewed journals and sponsoring societies, recommended didactic reading, and scheduled professional events.