A new molecular imaging technique using PET imaging shows promising results in evaluating and predicting the course of endometrial carcinoma. The technique combines estrogen receptor expression imaging with 18F-FDG PET to improve diagnostic accuracy, potentially saving women from unnecessary operations and biopsies.
Scientists have developed a potential new material for diagnosing malignant melanoma with greater accuracy than current imaging agents. The substance, called fluoronicotinamides, revealed melanoma cells with high tumor-to-body contrast ratio and rapid renal clearance.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has been awarded $431,200 to acquire a highly-specialized X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy System with micro-scale-imaging capabilities. This will enable researchers to visualize surface chemical composition and bonding capabilities of newly designed materials.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing a next-generation nano-CT imaging system to visualize fine features within larger objects and reduce radiation dose. The project aims to provide a versatile nano-imaging tool for various applications, including medical and industrial uses.
Researchers at NIBIB have developed a new technique called BF STEM tomography, which allows for high-resolution 3D imaging of thicker specimen samples. This enables the visualization of larger internal structures in cells, providing greater insight into cell organization and function.
A new study published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine shows that PET/CT scans with the imaging agent choline can detect recurring prostate cancer sooner than conventional imaging technologies. Researchers found a strong association between PET/CT detection and PSA levels, and suggest using specific criteria to reduce unnecessary scans.
Radiologists and medical physicists have implemented low-dose protocols and tracking systems to reduce cumulative ionizing radiation exposure. The Radiological Society of North America has launched initiatives to raise awareness of radiation risks and explore opportunities to improve patient safety through partnerships with the America...
A new study found nearly 70% of participants received at least one medical imaging procedure between 2005 and 2007, resulting in an average effective dose nearly double natural sources. The study highlights the need for research on the benefits and risks of medical imaging procedures to inform patient care.
A new study found that positron emission tomography (PET) can accurately depict the extent of neuroblastoma in some patients, especially those with early-stage disease. FDG-PET imaging may also be useful in identifying malignant lesions not readily absorbable by MIBG.
A new chemical imaging technique, ATR-FTIR imaging, may improve current methods of assessing lesions in the arteries. The technique revealed precise composition and size of lesions and levels of elastin, collagen, and cholesteryl ester.
Scientists develop a novel nanoparticle structure that combines the functions of quantum dots and gold nanoparticles, creating a multipurpose tool for medical imaging and therapy. The breakthrough could enable more efficient delivery of drugs, heat therapy, and optical imaging.
Purdue University researchers have developed magnetically responsive gold nanostars that can be used to enhance contrast in biomedical imaging. The nanostars can be made to twinkle at precise frequencies, allowing them to stand out from noisy backgrounds and improving the clarity of images.
Researchers develop new imaging method using nonlinear crystals, allowing for data encryption and higher resolution images. The technique enables capture of wide-view photos with high resolution, promising applications in various fields including optical systems, microscopes, and dynamical imaging.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have successfully focused ultrasound waves through a flat metamaterial lens to create an acoustic 'superlens'. This innovation could improve high-resolution ultrasound imaging, non-destructive structural testing of buildings and bridges, and novel underwater stealth technology.
Researchers at SNM's 56th Annual Meeting present a prototype breast imaging system combining positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies. The system aims to provide highly sensitive and specific breast cancer examinations while compensating for the shortcomings of individual PET or MRI systems.
Researchers have developed a new fully integrated PET/MRI system that can provide whole-body images of rats and small animals. The system offers significant improvements in imaging capabilities, enabling increased understanding of disease characteristics and physiological processes.
Alan Davison, Alun G. Jones, and Michael J. Abrams discovered a new class of technetium complexes that showed localization in cardiac tissue after intravenous administration, leading to the development of myocardial perfusion imaging agents. Their work has enabled millions of people to receive better diagnosis and treatment for heart c...
Researchers create high-performance W-Band silicon-germanium RFICs for passive millimeter-wave imaging, potentially leading to less expensive security imaging systems. The new technology can resolve images down to a millimeter scale, enabling the detection of small objects on a person's body.
A literature review published in Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography concludes that ultrasound provides accurate diagnoses at a lower cost than MRI and CT scans. The study's findings highlight the widespread adoption of ultrasound in various clinical settings, including obstetrics, cardiology, and emergency medicine.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has published a comprehensive guide to PET scanning in cancer therapy, providing international guidelines and criteria for response assessment. The new supplement aims to improve tumor response assessment and treatment monitoring with FDG PET imaging.
A study found that educating ordering physicians on the risks, benefits, and alternatives of various imaging modalities reduced unneeded studies by 26%. This targeted education led to a significant decrease in CT scans and nuclear medicine studies, minimizing patient radiation exposure.
Researchers developed a smart bomb-like drug delivery system that combines imaging with chemotherapy for prostate cancer treatment, showing promise in reducing tumor cells.
Researchers have successfully coupled USB-based ultrasound probe technology with smartphones, enabling compact, mobile medical imaging devices. This innovation has far-reaching implications for global healthcare, particularly in developing countries where access to medical imaging is limited.
A study found that imaging exams on pregnant women have more than doubled, with CT scans increasing by 25.3% annually due to growing radiation exposure concerns. The researchers evaluated 5,270 examinations and estimated fetal radiation exposure, highlighting the need for alternative imaging tests like MRI and ultrasound.
A study found that pretreatment MRI and PET/CT can direct women with stage IB cervical cancer to optimal therapy choices, avoiding trimodality therapy. The imaging modalities resulted in the highest percentage of correct primary treatment (89%) and saved the most patients from trimodality therapy (95%).
Imaging findings on MDCT suggest a higher risk of recurrence and metastasis in solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas. The study found that larger tumor size and specific imaging features were associated with increased vascular invasion and capsular disruption, indicating malignant potential.
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found no significant differences between immediate imaging and usual clinical care for patients with acute or sub-acute low-back pain. The authors recommend refraining from routine imaging unless serious underlying conditions are suspected, to reduce unnecessary tests and improve patient ...
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are developing new imaging technologies to help accurately pinpoint deep-brain stimulation electrodes in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study aims to reduce complications and improve patient outcomes by utilizing advanced MRI sequences and diffusion tensor imaging.
Researchers have developed a new technique called liquid STEM that enables the imaging of individual molecules in biological cells, with improved resolution and speed compared to existing methods. This innovation has potential applications in energy science and the development of molecular probes.
Researchers successfully monitored transplanted stem cells using bioluminescent imaging and iron oxide, enabling non-invasive tracking. Three different labeling methods were evaluated for their reliability in detecting transplanted mensenchymal stem cells, with DAPI labeling showing promising results.
A new radar breast imaging system has been developed at the University of Bristol, which uses radio waves to create a 3D image of the breast without radiation risk. The system has been trialled at North Bristol NHS Trust and shows promise in detecting abnormalities earlier than current methods.
A study found a significant increase in radiology tests in managed care settings, with an average cost per patient increasing by $214 over 10 years. Newer technologies like CT and MRI scans also saw a rise, but their use was not as efficient as expected.
Clemson University researchers have received a $180,000 grant to develop new imaging agents that combine light and MRI technology for early detection of breast cancers. The technology uses fluorescent carbon nanomaterials, dubbed 'carbon dots', with magnetic elements to enhance contrast and spatial resolution.
Researchers at Georgia Tech developed a low-cost, high-resolution imaging system that can be attached to a helicopter to create detailed pictures of devastated areas. The system enables accurate population estimates and demographic analysis, helping aid organizations plan for health and humanitarian services.
Recent advancements in cardiac imaging have led to the detection of impairments in cellular processes that precede changes in morphology and function. These early stages can be identified through various imaging techniques such as PET, nuclear imaging, MRI, ultrasound, and optical imaging.
The field of non-invasive cardiac imaging has evolved significantly, with various techniques such as echocardiography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance, and computed tomography available. However, clinicians face challenges in choosing the most suitable modality due to a plethora of options.
Thakur's work has advanced excellence in healthcare through the development of radiopharmaceuticals and imaging techniques, including a new monoclonal antibody for detecting infection. The 2008 Benedict Cassen Prize recognizes his major advance in basic or clinical nuclear medicine science.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded $170,000 in research grants to support nuclear medicine and molecular imaging research. This funding supports independent research projects, including the work of talented young scientists who will further advance diagnostic tools and treatments.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded significant grants to support molecular imaging research, providing opportunities for young scientists to pursue cutting-edge research in emerging fields. The awards aim to advance patient care by investing in promising researchers working on vital medical practices.
Researchers developed a promising new technique to track genetically engineered cells using antibody fragments as reporter genes, which could advance disease treatment. The technique offers several advantages over existing methods, including improved specificity and accuracy.
Two images, one showing neuroendocrine cancer relapse and the other a foot infection, demonstrate molecular imaging's ability to provide precise snapshots of disease anatomy. Imaging techniques are increasingly being used in combination to improve treatment planning and patient outcomes.
Researchers at SNM's 55th Annual Meeting present a study on pre-targeting strategies that combine molecular imaging techniques with targeted therapy, offering personalized medicine to cancer patients. This approach can increase the effectiveness of therapies and minimize discomfort during treatment.
A new study from the University of Melbourne found that Kylie Minogue's breast cancer diagnosis led to a significant increase in breast imaging and biopsies among low-risk women, particularly those aged 25-34. Despite the surge in screening activity, the rates of breast cancer detection did not change significantly.
Scientists have found a gene, MagA, that allows mammalian cells to produce tiny magnetic particles, making them visible under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The gene shows potential as an imaging tool for tracking cells' movement through the body.
Researchers at UC Berkeley developed a system that uses cell phones for medical imaging, reducing costs and increasing accessibility. The system consists of a data acquisition device connected to a central server where the image is processed, making it possible to view images on a cell phone screen.
A recent study found that self-referring physicians account for the majority of increases in diagnostic imaging ordered for privately insured patients. This trend is driven by fee-for-service reimbursement, which incentivizes physicians to perform scans in their own offices. The use of advanced imaging technologies has raised concerns ...
A new study shows that MRI and PET/CT can triage patients with stage 1B cervical cancer to optimal first-line therapy, preventing unnecessary trimodality therapy. The combination of both imaging modalities results in a 95% reduction in patients being triaged to high-morbidity treatment.
A team of Stanford University School of Medicine researchers has developed a new type of imaging system using Raman spectroscopy to illuminate tumors in living subjects. The technique allows for the detection of multiple molecular targets simultaneously, enabling finer biochemical details and more precise imaging.
The SIAM Journal on Imaging Sciences (SIIMS) focuses on conceptually new ideas in imaging science, combining mathematics and applications. The journal aims to shape the future of this exciting area by reporting fundamental advances.
A new CT imaging technique has significantly improved the outcome of living donor liver transplants by enhancing accurate visualization of vital bile duct anatomy. This innovation, adopted by radiologists at the University of Alberta Hospital, aims to reduce screening time and improve convenience for potential donors.
Researchers at the University of Southern California found that combined positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) imaging yields greater accuracy when evaluating response to radiation therapy. This method helps identify complete responders and reduces the need for unnecessary chemotherapy treatments.
A study in mice suggests that a spectral imaging system could provide immediate results during Hirschsprung's disease surgeries, increasing patient safety and operating room efficiency. This technology identifies diseased tissue based on wavelength, allowing precise localization of interventions.
A recent study published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that PET/CT imaging significantly outperforms conventional imaging for detecting malignant tumors in children. The imaging modality provides additional information about cancer in children, potentially sparing them from overtreatment.
Researchers used PET imaging and bioluminescence to track stem cell behavior in small animal models, determining their fate and potential applications in treating heart diseases, brain disorders, and cancer. The unique combination of these imaging techniques offers a reliable method for labeling stem cells.
A systematic review of recent studies suggests PET imaging can accurately diagnose and stage lung cancer, even in early stages. The imaging modality is found to be more accurate than CT imaging for treatment decisions in non–small-cell lung cancer patients.
A study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that physicians who self-refer or refer patients to colleagues in their own specialty are more likely to order imaging studies, with variations ranging from 12% to over 200%. This economic motivation may lead to unnecessary referrals and excess utilization of imaging procedures.
Researchers found that diffusion tensor imaging can identify structural changes in the white matter of the brain, correlating to cognitive deficits even in patients with mild TBI. The study also discovered axonal damage and myelin abnormalities in more severe injuries.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has revised its nuclear medicine technologist's scope of practice, reflecting changes in technology and molecular imaging. The updated document includes procedures such as CT scans and administering contrast.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has developed a broad definition for molecular imaging, capturing the essence of an evolving and multidisciplinary field. The definition provides a concise explanation of the meaning of molecular imaging, including techniques such as radiotracer imaging, MRI, and optical imaging.
SNM presented special recognition awards to 7 lawmakers who support the profession. The organization highlighted their dedication to patient care and safety through initiatives like the CARE Act. SNM's annual meeting will be held June 2-6 at the Washington Convention Center.