New algorithms for in vivo characterization of human trabecular bone: development, validation, and applications

Recommended Citation Liu, Yinxiao. "New algorithms for in vivo characterization of human trabecular bone: development, validation, and applications." PhD iii ACKNOWLEDGMENTS After six years, Iowa City is the place where I have spent the longest time ever besides my hometown. It is not just a span of time to pursue a Ph.D. degree, but a lifelong memory and treasure that I will cherish and enjoy. It is my great fortune to be here in the University of Iowa and meet the important people who will influence my whole life. The best and worst of my Ph.D. life were shared with them. I want to thank all those who ever and are still giving me help, bringing me happiness and enlightening my future. Above all, the most important person I want say thank you is my advisor, Dr. Punam K. Saha, without whose guidance and help, the path for me will be much harder during my six year of Ph.D. study. He patiently provided the vision, encouragement and advice necessary for me to go through the program and complete my dissertation. He would help me hand by hand when I got stuck at the beginning of the program, and he would trust me to take charge of a project when I became senior. And I greatly appreciate the advice he gives me in both work and life which will benefit my whole life, just like an old friend. His spirit, hardworking attitude, intelligence, carefulness and pursuing of perfection really impresses and changes me all the time. It is my great honor to finish my degree under his instruction. for their support, guidance and helpful suggestions. Their guidance has served me well and I owe them my heartfelt appreciation. Also, I want to thank Dr. Xiaodong Wu and Dr. Ei-wei Bai for serving on my Master defense committee and providing me valuable suggestions in May 2009. It is because of you that my life here is enriched, and full of beautiful memories. I would also like to thank the department secretary Catherine Kern and the administrative assistant Dina Blanc for their patient assistance. Most of all thanks are for my parents and other family members. It is impossible for me to go this far without their love and support. v ABSTRACT Osteoporosis is a common bone disease that increases risk of low-trauma fractures associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and financial costs. Clinically, …