About the Book:This volume presents the subject of image processing and analysis to t he point of view of the user. The standard algorithms, procedures, and rules of thumb are explained in the context of successful application to biological or medical images and chapters cover image acquisition, processing, analysis, and pattern recognition. This approach equips t he user with the necessary background for informed use of image proces sing software, and the ability to write their own programs. There are explanations of more advanced techniques, and each has reference to sp ecific applications. This is an extremely usable, practical guide for the beginning postgraduate biologist or medical researcher.