CODE: a deconvolution program implementing a regularization method of deconvolution constrained to non-negative values. Description and pilot evaluation.

A regularization method of deconvolution constrained to non-negative values is described. The method gives smooth estimates of the input function whilst providing a feasible fit (in terms of least squares) to measurements. A description of the program CODE (constrained deconvolution) which implements the method is given. A new methodology for a pilot evaluation of deconvolution programs is also proposed. The methodology is based on synthetic data. It employs a variety of shapes of the input function, low (1%) and high (15%) values of the measurement error, and incorporates primary (accuracy) and secondary (bias) performance measures. The performance of CODE is evaluated and it is suggested that CODE provides estimates of the input function with acceptable accuracy.