Capturing and displaying microscopic images used in medical diagnostics and forensic science using 4K video resolution - an application in higher education

To analyze, interpret and evaluate microscopic images, used in medical diagnostics and forensic science, video images for educational purposes were made with a very high resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels (4K), which is four times as many pixels as High-Definition Video (1920 x 1080 pixels). The unprecedented high resolution makes it possible to see details that remain invisible to any other video format. The images of the specimens (blood cells, tissue sections, hair, fibre, etc.) are recorded using a 4K video camera which is attached to a light microscope. After processing, this resulted in very sharp and highly detailed images. This material was then used in education for classroom discussion. Spoken explanation by experts in the field of medical diagnostics and forensic science was also added to the high-resolution video images to make it suitable for self-study. Lay Description 4K video (4K UHD) offers lifelike video images. The unprecedented high resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels is at least four times sharper than High-Definition TV and makes it possible to see details that remain invisible to any other video format. In combination with perfect sound, this provides a unique viewing and listening experience that is almost like entering a new kind of reality. 4K video makes new applications possible, for instance, in cinema, education, telepresence, gaming, visualization, science and medical diagnostics and - research. In a project with 4K video applications in higher education, we investigated the possibilities of using this technique for examining microscopic slides used in medical laboratory diagnostics and forensic science. For example, examination of blood smears, hair and fibres. For this purpose, we attached a 4K digital video camera to a light microscope to make 4K images. The added value of using 4K video to look at these microscopic slides is mainly in the sharp and detailed image that 4K video provides after zooming, unlike traditional video recording. 4K video also offers the possibility to go from global to detail without loss of sharpness, which is very important in this type of application. The ability to evaluate these slides is very important and requires much practice for students. 4K video images can be used during a class discussion. After adding expert comments to the video images by the teacher, it can also be used by the students for self-study. The 4K video technique enables our students to analyze, interpret and evaluate the microscopic slides by using very high-resolution images, which were not available until now.