Nikon Announces Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Predictive Imaging, Image Segmentation and Processing

MELVILLE, N.Y., Dec. 16, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Nikon Instruments Inc., innovator of advanced microscope systems, today announced NIS.ai, a powerful image analysis and processing module for NIS-Elements that leverages Deep Learning and Artificial Intelligence. NIS.ai is a suite of new AI-based processing tools that utilizes convolutional neural networks to learn from small training datasets supplied by the user. The training results can then be easily applied to process and analyze huge volumes of data, enabling researchers to increase throughput and expand their application limits.

NIS.ai includes a suite of applications for predictive imaging, image segmentation and processing:

    --  Convert.ai:   Convert.ai learns related patterns present in two
        different imaging channels.  After training, Convert.ai can then predict
        the pattern in the second channel even when presented with only the
        first channel.  DAPI-based staining of nuclei is a common method for
        cell segmentation and counting.  Convert.ai can be trained to predict
        where the DAPI label would be based on unstained DIC or phase-contrast
        images.  This enables users to perform nuclei-based image analysis
        without ever having to stain samples with DAPI or acquire a fluorescent
        channel.
    --  Segment.ai:  Segment.ai enables complex structures to be easily
        identified and segmented.  Neurites in phase-contrast images are
        traditionally difficult to define by classic thresholding.  Segment.ai
        can be trained on a small subset of hand-traced neurites to
        automatically detect and segment neurites from thousands of untraced
        datasets.
    --  Enhance.ai:  Imaging dim fluorescent samples or applications that
        require low-level light exposure typically result in compromised image
        quality with poor signal-to-noise ratio.  Enhance.ai learns what a high
        signal-to-noise image looks like by comparing under-exposed and
        optimally-exposed images.  Enhance.ai can then restore details in
        under-exposed or dim fluorescent images, enabling researchers to gain
        more insights from their low-signal imaging applications.
    --  Denoise.ai:  Launched earlier this year, Denoise.ai removes shot noise
        from resonant confocal images and can be performed in real-time. 
        Applying Denoise.ai to resonant confocal imaging enables users to
        acquire confocal images at ultra-high speed without sacrificing image
        quality.

"The application of Deep Learning and AI to biomedical imaging is extremely powerful, and opening up unseen possibilities," said Steve Ross, Ph.D., Director, Products & Marketing, Nikon Instruments Inc. "With NIS.ai, researchers can easily apply deep learning to extract meaningful, unbiased data from large, complex datasets."

To learn more about NIS.ai, visit: https://www.microscope.healthcare.nikon.com/nis-ai

About Nikon Instruments Inc.
Nikon Instruments Inc. is the US microscopy arm of Nikon Healthcare, a world leader in the development and manufacture of optical and digital imaging technology for biomedical applications. Cutting-edge instruments include microscopes, digital imaging products and software. For more information, visit www.microscope.healthcare.nikon.com.

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SOURCE Nikon Instruments Inc.