# A dual-layer flat panel x-ray detector based on an engineered amorphous chalcogenide alloy for quantifying coronary artery calcium

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ · 2023 · $141,250

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Cardiovascular disease (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally. According to the American Heart
Association, for early treatment of CVD and to verify if a patient should be prescribed statin therapy, calcium
scoring via cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) should be performed. However, there is a limited application of
calcium scoring due to limited spatial resolution of CT (~1 mm), dose concern, and out of pocket expense for
patient. To address the challenges with CT calcium scoring, a new technology based on dual-layer flat panel
detector is being developed under our R01 “A dual-layer flat panel X-ray detector based on an engineered
amorphous chalcogenide alloy for quantifying coronary artery calcium” to provide opportunistic calcium score
whenever X-ray is done. This technology aims to provide an opportunistic approach to X-ray imaging with a
detector that improves detection and quantification of coronary artery calcium (CAC). It is based on a patent
pending selenium alloy with favorable optical and electrical properties that enhance image quality. Whenever X-
ray is done for any reason calcium score automatically is generated with no additional cost burden to healthcare
system. To advance the proposed technology from a functioning prototype to readiness level required for
licensing to the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), there are areas related to uniformity and variation
across detector and yield that should be evaluated and assessed.
In this supplement, we will apply our learning from concept to clinic: commercializing innovation (C3i) program
to address key areas that are not included in the parent award but needs to be address before being presented
to OEM partner. We will develop multiple prototypes to assess the distribution of bad pixels and overall detector
yield, as well as identifying any patterns or trends in the distribution of these defects. We will determine the
required changes or challenges in integration of the proposed technology to the OEM thin-film transistor
backplanes. Leveraging the outcome of this supplement award will significantly strengthen the preliminary data
required to address important technical risk related to manufacturing process of the proposed technology to
present to OEM partners.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10839539
- **Project number:** 3R01EB033466-02S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ
- **Principal Investigator:** Shiva Abbaszadeh
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2023
- **Award amount:** $141,250
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2022-09-07 → 2026-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10839539

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10839539, A dual-layer flat panel x-ray detector based on an engineered amorphous chalcogenide alloy for quantifying coronary artery calcium (3R01EB033466-02S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-08-17 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10839539. Licensed CC0.

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