Microwave approaches to breast imaging include the measurement of signals transmitted through and reflected from the\r\nbreast. Prototype systems typically feature sensors separated from the breast, resulting in measurements that include the effects\r\nof the environment and system. To gain insight into transmission of microwave signals through the breast, a system that\r\nplaces sensors in direct contact with the breast is proposed. The system also includes a lossy immersion medium that enables\r\nmeasurement of the signal passing through the breast while significantly attenuating signals traveling along other paths. Collecting\r\nmeasurements at different separations between sensors also provides the opportunity to estimate the average electrical properties\r\nof the breast tissues. After validation through simulations and measurements, a study of 10 volunteers was performed. Results\r\nindicate symmetry between the right and left breast and demonstrate differences in attenuation, maximum frequency for reliable\r\nmeasurement, and average properties that likely relate to variations in breast composition.
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