Research on MRI and what it can reveal. Covers restorative-sleep imaging, new MRI agents for cancer, prostate imaging, and dementia mapping.
Researchers at Michigan Tech have developed a new approach to high-frequency MRI machines by using radio frequency probes inspired by microstrip patch antennas. These designs increase MRI resolution and provide uniform magnetic fields, leading to better images.
Purdue University researchers used an MRI to study the effects of vagus nerve stimulation on stomach complications, showing it can correct symptoms and speed up gastric emptying. The technique has potential for more precise treatment than existing methods, and further research is planned.
MIT engineers have created a new technique to detect electromagnetic signals in the brain using minimally invasive MRI sensors, enabling spatially accurate pinpointing of electrical activity. The sensors can also detect light produced by luminescent proteins, expanding their potential applications in neuroscience and beyond.
A new study using carotid artery MRI shows that measurements of wall thickness can improve cardiovascular disease risk assessment. The technique offers a more accurate predictor of cardiovascular events than ultrasound-based intima-media thickness (IMT) tests, especially for stroke risk.
A new study combines imaging and neuropsychological testing to more accurately assess cognitive status, distinguishing individuals with mild cognitive impairment from those with normal cognition. The combined data model achieved an overall accuracy of over 90%, surpassing individual models alone.
Researchers found that fans of rival teams see the same game in a visual sense, but interpret and evaluate sensory information differently. The study suggests that group bias may be linked to the brain's reward system and reflects an interaction between multiple brain regions.
A study published in Radiology found that minimally invasive autopsy with CT and MRI performs as well as conventional autopsy in detecting cause of death, yielding more diagnoses. The procedure provides a permanent record of the entire body that can be revisited and reanalyzed by pathologists, radiologists, clinicians, and next-of-kin.
Researchers developed a new MRI technique that analyzes overlooked data to reveal brain cell density and connectivity. This may aid in diagnosing brain conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and autism.
A study found that premature baby boys' brains are affected more severely than girls', with significant sex differences in gray matter and white matter. The research used MRI scans to analyze the brains of 33 infants, showing that even at one year old, there are major sex differences.
Purdue University researchers have simulated how over 20 different breast tissue ratios respond to heat given off by MRIs at higher field strengths. The simulations showed that a fivefold increase in SAR could still stay within FDA limits for most breast tissue ratios, enabling the use of 7 tesla technology for safer cancer detection.
Researchers aim to develop and evaluate non-contrast based imaging methods to diagnose peripheral arterial disease without relying on gadolinium-based contrast agents. The proposed techniques have high applicability to other medical procedures, including venography and vessel wall imaging.
Researchers detected myelin loosening in concussed athletes two weeks after injury, even though they felt fine. This can slow signal transmission between brain cells and may lead to long-term damage.
Research found two brain areas associated with action control have varying volumes and connectivity in individuals with high versus low action control. Individuals with poor action control had a larger amygdala, while the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dorsal ACC) showed reduced functional connection to the amygdala.
Rice University scientists create iron-based TI contrast agent that outperforms gadolinium chelates, improving T1 MRI contrast performance by two-fold. The study demonstrates a method to load iron into nanoparticles, offering a safer and more effective alternative for radiologists.
Researchers created an MRI coil that produces images with three times higher resolution than standard coils, enabling easy whole-body imaging of mice. The new coil design uses inexpensive materials and manufacturing technology, reducing noise and improving image quality.
A new study published in the journal Radiology found that women soccer players exhibit more extensive changes to brain tissue after repetitive 'heading' of the soccer ball. Women showed lower fractional anisotropy values across a larger volume of brain tissue compared to men.
A new MRI technique monitors brain iron levels to identify MS patients at higher risk of developing physical disability. Iron depletion or increase in certain brain structures is associated with longer disease duration and higher disability degree.
Researchers found that brain anatomy is highly individualized, reflecting a combination of genetic and non-genetic influences. Over 90% accurate identification was achieved using MRI scans of nearly 200 healthy individuals.
A team of researchers has developed a new method to measure and reconstruct interstitial fluid flow velocities in the brain. The technique reveals high variability in flow rates and magnitudes, contradicting the classical idea of a uniform flow rate. This discovery could potentially help predict tumor growth and improve cancer treatments.
Researchers found that elderly people who feel younger than their age show fewer signs of brain aging and have increased gray matter volume in key brain regions. This suggests that caring for brain health may be important for those who feel older than their age.
A recent study found that increased fetal exposure to folic acid due to grain fortification is associated with altered postnatal brain development and psychiatric risk in youth. Cortical thickness on MRI scans revealed significant changes, highlighting the need for further research into micronutrient effects on brain development.
Researchers found that ultra-high-strength MRI releases high levels of mercury from amalgam fillings, but lower strength MRI does not cause significant leakage. The study suggests further research is needed to evaluate the relationship between high-field MRI and mercury release.
A study using high-resolution MRI found that domesticated rabbits have reduced amygdala size and enlarged medial prefrontal cortex compared to wild rabbits. This led to a diminished flight response and slower reaction time, as the brain's white matter structure was also compromised.
The Hong Kong University (HKU) team designed the world's first intra-operative MRI-guided robot for bilateral stereotactic neurosurgery. This innovation enables accurate and safe brain surgery, targeting tiny nucleus structures with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
Researchers developed an algorithm that accelerates the registration of 3D medical images by learning from previous registrations, reducing processing time to minutes or seconds. The 'VoxelMorph' algorithm uses convolutional neural networks and achieves comparable accuracy to state-of-the-art systems.
A University of Washington study found that specialized tutoring can change brain connections and improve reading performance. After eight weeks, neural circuitry strengthened in struggling readers, leading to improved reading skills.
The adult ventricular septum plays a crucial role in both the right and left ventricles' performance. Advanced imaging techniques reveal its mechanical patterns, which may help predict adverse cardiovascular events.
Researchers developed a new method to convert complex medical images into physical models with unprecedented detail. This technique uses dithered bitmaps to simplify grayscale images, allowing for faster and more accurate printing.
Researchers developed an imaging technique that reveals tiny brain motions induced by blood pulsation and CSF flow, enabling better visualization of brain motion. This method promises a long-awaited diagnostic tool for obstructive brain disorders, such as Chiari malformation I.
Scientists have discovered a way to exploit defects in nanoscale diamonds to enhance the sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) systems. The technique could lead to low-cost alternatives to multimillion-dollar medical imaging and drug-discovery devices.
Machine learning has detected small vessel disease, a common cause of stroke and dementia, in CT scans more accurately than current methods. The software can identify and measure the severity of SVD, enabling clinicians to administer better treatments and predict patients' likelihood of developing dementia.
Researchers found that cortical surface area, a measure of brain size, is associated with greater cognitive ability in taller individuals. However, the study also suggests that environmental factors, such as childhood malnutrition, may play a larger role in shaping cognitive development.
Research by Children's Hospital Los Angeles reveals that gadolinium deposition in the brain is associated with brain tumors and radiation treatment, rather than the amount of contrast agent administered. The study's findings challenge previous assumptions about the dose-dependent nature of gadolinium deposition.
A new MRI component in the shape of a glove delivers clear images of bones, tendons, and ligaments moving together for the first time. The technology has potential for diagnosing repetitive strain injuries and creating a more versatile atlas of hand anatomy.
Researchers have developed a new, non-invasive technique using magnetic resonance methods to detect internal defects and state of charge in rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries. This breakthrough could lead to faster diagnosis, reduced costs, and improved safety in the battery industry.
Researchers have developed next-generation contrast agents that can be turned off using ultrasound, allowing for clearer MRI scans. The new technology relies on nanoscale structures called gas vesicles, which bounce back sound waves and react differently to magnetic fields.
Researchers have developed a real-time thermal imaging method to guide minimally invasive brain tumor treatments. This technology enables doctors to precisely deliver the right dose to the right location, reducing risks and costs associated with follow-up imaging studies.
Researchers developed a method to measure proton nuclear resonance dispersion profiles at low magnetic fields, revealing the water exchange rate of tumor cells. This enables direct assessment of tumor status and metabolic activity, which is characteristic of aggressive and highly metastatic tumors.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a novel 'Tic-tac-toe' RF coil system for high-resolution brain imaging, addressing technical difficulties associated with ultrahigh field human MRI. The technology enables better understanding of neurological diseases such as depression, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia.
A new study presents contrast-enhanced subharmonic imaging (SHI) as a promising tool for detecting prostate cancers not identified by MRI. SHI provides improved contrast signal and tissue suppression, leading to better visualization of microvascular architecture.
The new MR Multitasking technique allows for faster and more comfortable cardiac MRI tests by continuously acquiring image data, separating motion from other changes into multiple time dimensions. This method was found to be accurate in testing healthy volunteers and cardiac patients, completing tests in as little as 90 seconds.
Researchers found that major adverse events like divorce or death of a family member can measurably accelerate brain aging in older men. The study used MRI scans to assess brain volume and cortical thickness, predicting brain age difference based on life-changing events.
A new lung MRI method helps identify where airway inflammation and smooth muscle dysfunction occur in patients with severe asthma. This innovation aims to personalize therapy for individual patients, improving disease control and quality of life.
Scientists from Spain have created a new technique using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the properties of Iberian hams and whole loins. This non-invasive method allows for the prediction of quality characteristics such as fat content, moisture levels, color, and sensory attributes without destroying the meat products.
New study reveals that ultra-slow waves are not just noise in the brain, but a fundamental process that coordinates complex brain activity. The waves enhance electrical activity in areas and persist even under anesthesia, suggesting they may be linked to consciousness.
A new technique uses engineered diamond crystals to increase the strength of magnetic field produced by molecules, increasing their signal when measured by MRI. This could enhance imaging sensitivity for patient diagnosis and personalized medicine.
A new study reveals that prostate MRI scans can reduce the number of invasive biopsies by up to 28% and detect more harmful cancers. The results show that using MRI to target biopsies leads to more significant cancer diagnoses, while also reducing unnecessary diagnoses.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed AFQ-Browser, a web-based tool for displaying, analyzing, and sharing neurological data collected through diffusion-weighted MRI studies. The browser aims to improve transparency and data-sharing methods in neuroscience research.
A study using MRI scans found variations in the volume of the insula brain region in transgender women, which may be linked to body dysphoria and discrimination. The research suggests that these differences may begin during gestation and cannot be explained by hormone treatment.
A study of 5,065 participants found that stronger hand grips are associated with a lower heart mass and reduced remodeling of the heart muscle, indicating a reduced risk of cardiovascular events. This suggests that hand grip strength may be an important indicator of cardiovascular health.
Researchers have discovered that muscle wasting in old age follows changes in the nervous system, which can be reversed with healthy muscles. The study found that surviving nerves can send out new branches to rescue detached muscle fibers, but this process is not successful in everyone.
Researchers detect heat produced by Alfvén waves in a sunspot, shedding light on the Sun's extremely high temperatures. The discovery opens up new understanding of this phenomenon and its potential applications in energy reactors and medical devices.
A new brain imaging technique, radial VIBE, has shown promise in reducing motion-related artifacts in brain imaging of restless children. This alternative method to conventional MRI improved image quality and lesion conspicuity compared to MP-RAGE sequence.
Scientists have discovered genes linked to individual differences in brain anatomy in autistic children, with variation in cortex thickness and gene activity involved. The study provides the first evidence linking differences in the autistic brain to specific genes with atypical gene activity.
A new study published in Radiology found that imaging services played a crucial role in managing Olympic athletes with sports-related injuries and disorders. The study showed that MRI was used for nearly 60% of all imaging performed for diagnosis, highlighting its importance in fast and relevant diagnoses.
Researchers developed a high-resolution nanometer-scale magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique, enabling unprecedented views of biological systems. The new method extends traditional MRI capabilities to the nanoscale, providing insights into Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
Researchers developed an MRI technique that eliminates contrast agents, reducing unnecessary biopsies and detecting 98% of malignant lesions. The diffusion kurtosis imaging method provides a microscopic level picture of breast tissue, helping to clarify suspicious findings.
A study published in Neurology suggests that strokes can compromise the blood-ocular barrier, causing gadolinium to leak into the eye. This phenomenon could potentially provide valuable information about stroke severity and guide treatment.
Researchers have developed a new way to magnetise molecules found naturally in the human body, paving the way for low-cost MRI technology. This method could enable doctors to personalize life-saving medical treatments and allow real-time imaging.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new brain mapping technique that highlights the relationship between brain connectivity and IQ. The study found a significant link between the density of connections in higher-order brain regions and individual intelligence.