Knobbly knees in competition with fingerprints
A new biometric approach using kneecap scans could identify individuals with accuracy of up to 93%. This method avoids health risks and privacy issues associated with other biometrics.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Research on MRI and what it can reveal. Covers restorative-sleep imaging, new MRI agents for cancer, prostate imaging, and dementia mapping.
Study findings have potential to prevent,reverse disabilities in children born prematurely
Researchers at OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital report that low blood flow to the premature brain does not cause irreversible loss of brain cells, but rather disrupts their ability to mature. This discovery opens up new avenues for potential therapies to promote regeneration and repair of the premature brain.
MRI can screen patients for Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal lobar degeneration
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania developed a non-invasive MRI-based algorithm to screen patients for Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal lobar degeneration. The method, published in Neurology, accurately differentiated cases 75 percent of the time and showed comparable accuracy to lumbar puncture tests.
New MRI method may help diagnose dementia
Researchers developed a new MRI method to predict the ratio of tau and beta-amyloid proteins in cerebrospinal fluid, achieving 75% accuracy in identifying correct diagnoses. The method could be used as a screening tool and help monitor biomarkers over time in clinical trials.
New MRI analysis useful in predicting stroke complications caused by clot-busters
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new way of analyzing standard MRI scans to accurately measure blood-brain barrier damage in stroke victims. This could lead to better treatment outcomes and reduced risk of complications from clot-dissolving drugs, known as tPA.
Combining diagnostic tests more accurate at predicting Alzheimer's
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that combining diagnostic tests more accurately predicts Alzheimer's in patients with mild cognitive impairment. The combination of MRI, FDG-PET, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis reduced misdiagnoses by 28.4% compared to individual tests.
Combination of imaging exams improves Alzheimer's diagnosis
A combination of diagnostic tests, including MRI, PET and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, can improve the prediction of conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease. The study found that combining these tests reduced false classifications and increased accuracy compared to clinical testing alone.
Prostate cancer now detectable by imaging-guided biopsy
A new imaging-guided targeted biopsy method using MRI and ultrasound fusion has been shown to detect prostate cancer more accurately than traditional blind biopsies. The technique led to a high rate of cancer detection and identification of aggressive tumors, improving patient outcomes.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateDec 10, 2012
High altitude climbers at risk for brain bleeds
Researchers have found that mountain climbers who develop a severe form of high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) are at risk for microbleeds in the brain years after their initial incident. The condition can cause swelling of brain tissue due to fluid leakage from capillaries, leading to symptoms like headaches and loss of coordination.
Scanning innovation can improve personalized medicine
Researchers have developed omni-tomography, a technology that integrates multiple imaging modalities to improve early disease screening, cancer staging, and therapeutic assessment. This approach enables precise reconstruction of small areas in the body using prior knowledge and common properties.
Scientists image brain structures that deteriorate in Parkinson's
A new MRI technique has provided the first clinical evidence for the theory that Parkinson's neurodegeneration begins deep in the brain and advances upward. The study found significant loss of volume in the substantia nigra early on, followed by loss of basal forebrain volume later in the disease.
Imaging shows some brains compensate after traumatic injury
Researchers used MRI to image patients with mild traumatic brain injury and found that some brains compensate for damage by changing water flow patterns. This compensation is associated with fewer post-concussion symptoms and higher functioning, suggesting a potential new approach to treating traumatic brain injury.
Fetal alcohol exposure affects brain structure in children
A new study reveals that fetal alcohol exposure alters brain structure and metabolism in children, with MRI techniques showing statistically significant thinning of the corpus callosum. Diffusion weighted imaging also detected increased diffusion, indicative of neurological disorders or brain damage.
Reading, writing and playing games may help aging brains stay healthy
A new study found that frequent cognitive activity in late life is associated with higher diffusion anisotropy values in the brain, indicating better microstructural integrity. The research suggests that keeping the brain occupied can have positive outcomes and may help maintain brain health in older adults.
Experimental drug improves memory in mice with multiple sclerosis
Researchers have identified a key biochemical marker for cognitive impairment in MS brains and developed an experimental compound to manipulate it, improving learning and memory in mice. The finding has the potential to speed development of new drugs for treating cognitive impairment in MS patients and those with Alzheimer's disease.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2012
Into the magnetic resonance scanner with a cuddly toy
Bochum clinicians successfully performed MRI scans on 326 children without sedation, achieving a 97% diagnostic relevance rate. The BLADE technique was used to minimize blurring and maximize image quality, allowing for successful examinations in 41% of three-year-olds, 91% of four-year-olds, and 98% of patients over five years old.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalRöFo - Fortschritte auf dem Gebiet der Röntgenstrahlen und der bildgebenden Verfahren·DateNov 16, 2012
OU research groups awarded NSF grants to expand research and training in science and engineering
The University of Oklahoma has received nearly $2 million in National Science Foundation grants to enhance its research capabilities in meteorology, high energy physics, and bioengineering. The grants will enable OU faculty and students to conduct cutting-edge research with state-of-the-art equipment.
Migraine-associated brain changes not related to impaired cognition
A nine-year follow-up study found that women with migraines did not exhibit declining cognitive abilities, unlike previous research suggesting a link between migraine and impaired cognition. Brain changes associated with bright spots on MRI scans were present in both men and women with migraines.
MRI research sheds new light on nerve fibers in the brain
A new MRI model reveals why images are sensitive to nerve fiber direction and allows for detailed information about fiber size and direction. This discovery will help clinicians recognize lesions and tailor scans to patients with specific needs.
SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2012
Results of the AIDA STEMI MRI sub-study presented at TCT 2012
A new study presented at TCT 2012 confirms that intracoronary and intravenous use of abciximab during angioplasty yield similar results for heart damage and reperfusion injury in STEMI patients. The AIDA STEMI MRI sub-study examined various measures of heart damage using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.
First micro-structure atlas of the human brain completed
A European team has completed the first micro-structure atlas of the human brain, utilizing advanced MRI technology. The atlas provides unprecedented detail and accuracy, revealing new information about brain structure that helps understand how cellular architecture relates to thought processes.
Human neural stem cells study offers new hope for children with fatal brain diseases
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have demonstrated that banked human neural stem cells can survive and make functional myelin in mice with severe symptoms of myelin loss. The study provides proof of principle for treating a wide variety of disorders that affect myelin, including cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis.
New MRI technique used to identify early-stage coronary disease
A new MRI technique has shown promise in identifying early-stage coronary disease, which can be treated with lifestyle changes and medications. The study used time-resolved multi-frame acquisition to measure coronary artery wall thickness with a high success rate and precise measurements.
Novel MRI technique could reduce breast biopsies
A novel MRI technique using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) successfully characterizes 46% of non-malignant breast lesions as benign, reducing false-positive findings and preventable biopsies. DWI differentiates high-risk lesions requiring additional workup from other non-malignant subtypes.
MRI images transplanted islet cells with help of positively charged nanoparticles
Researchers developed positively charged nanoparticles that efficiently transduce into islet cells, enabling accurate monitoring via MRI. The study suggests these nanoparticles could be useful for evaluating graft survival and monitoring therapeutic interventions in islet transplantation.
SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Medicine·DateOct 1, 2012
Noninvasive measurement enables use of IFP as potential biomarker for tumor aggressiveness
Researchers have developed a noninvasive method to measure interstitial fluid pressure in tumors, which may help identify aggressive tumors. The technique uses dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI to evaluate the velocity of fluid flow from tumors and has been shown to correlate with tumor aggressiveness.
Evidence-based guidelines enable optimal treatment of common low-back pain
A set of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines has been established to guide the diagnosis and treatment of low-back pain in the US. The guidelines recommend careful observation, over-the-counter pain medication, and targeted physical activity for most patients, while reserving imaging and surgery for specific cases with red flags.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateOct 1, 2012
MRI helps identify patients with prostate cancer who may benefit from active surveillance
A new study in The Journal of Urology presents promising results on the use of MRI to assess eligibility for active surveillance in men with clinically low risk prostate cancer. The findings suggest that clear tumor visualization on MRI is predictive of disease status upgrades on confirmatory biopsy, highlighting the potential of MRI t...
Cardiac study evaluates prevalence of unrecognized heart attacks among older adults
A study using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in Iceland found that unrecognized heart attacks (UMI) were associated with an increased risk of death. The prevalence of UMI was higher than previously suspected, especially among individuals with diabetes.
BUSM researchers study use of MRI in osteoarthritis
A study by BUSM researchers reveals that approximately 90 percent of knees with no signs of osteoarthritis using X-ray showed clear signs of osteoarthritis using MRI. The findings suggest that MRI is not a useful diagnostic test for knee pain in this age group.
MRI scanners affect concentration and visuospatial awareness
Standard head movements during MRI scanner exposure temporarily lower concentration and visuospatial awareness, particularly in tasks requiring high working memory. This may have implications for surgeons and other healthcare staff.
Multi-dimensional brain measurements can assess child's age
A team of researchers at UC San Diego developed a multi-dimensional set of brain measurements that can accurately assess a child's age. The study, published in Current Biology, shows that the 'developmental clock' within the brain captures age differences well regardless of individual variability.
Team creates new view of body's infection response
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have created a new 3D view of the body's response to infection, enabling the identification of proteins involved in the inflammatory response. The technology combines magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and imaging mass spectrometry to visualize the immune system's response to bacterial infections.
Unprecedented accuracy in locating brain electrical activity with new device
Researchers at Aalto University developed a device that merges MEG and MRI technology to produce unprecedented accuracy in locating brain electrical activity non-invasively. This innovation improves the diagnosis of cancer patients and enhances brain mapping for epilepsy cases.
Piglets in mazes provide insights into human cognitive development
Researchers used piglets in mazes to study human cognitive development, finding that environmental insults can affect brain structure and function. The piglet model allows for the testing of learning and memory tasks, providing insights into how stressors impact brain development.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Neuroscience·DateJul 25, 2012
Sodium buildup in brain linked to disability in multiple sclerosis
A new study published in Radiology found that sodium accumulation in the brain correlates directly with disability in multiple sclerosis patients. The research used 3 Tesla sodium MRI to detect abnormal sodium concentrations in specific brain regions and throughout the whole brain.
Science goes through the roof
The university has upgraded its research facilities with a $2.7 million NMR spectrometer, allowing for faster and more detailed molecular imaging. This will enable researchers to study macromolecules at the molecular level, benefiting disease research and biological problem-solving.
Noninvasive imaging technique may help kids with heart transplants
Cardiologists at WashU Medicine have developed a noninvasive imaging technique to detect coronary artery disease in pediatric heart transplant patients, reducing the need for invasive tests. The technique uses contrast-enhanced cardiac MRI to assess coronary arteries and has shown promising results, although further study is needed.
Road-mapping the Asian brain
The University of Nottingham is developing a detailed picture of the Asian brain through a two-year project. The resulting road-map will help doctors in Asia diagnose age-related diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's at an earlier stage, improving treatment outcomes.
Tiny magnetic coils modulate neural activity, may be safer for deep-brain implants
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed tiny magnetic coils that can modulate neural activity, reducing symptoms of Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders. The study found that the coils can selectively target specific populations of neurons, minimizing effects on non-targeted cells.
Substantial increase in rate of advanced diagnostic imaging, associated radiation exposure
Between 1996 and 2010, the use of advanced diagnostic imaging like CT and MRI tripled and nearly quadrupled, respectively. Estimated radiation exposure also increased substantially, with a significant association between CT usage and radiation dose.
Novel brain imaging technique explains why concussions affect people differently
Researchers have found that concussion victims have unique spatial patterns of brain abnormalities that change over time. DTI and EZ-MAP analysis reveal distinct patterns of low and high fractional anisotropy, suggesting a response to injury and potential compensatory mechanisms.
Study links PTSD to hidden head injuries suffered in combat
Researchers found an association between mild traumatic brain injury and PTSD severity using advanced imaging techniques. The study suggests that subtle brain injury can predispose soldiers to psychiatric illness when coupled with extreme chronic stress.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateJun 6, 2012
Breast MRI helps predict chemotherapy's effectiveness
A new study shows that Breast MRI provides an indication of a breast tumor's response to pre-surgical chemotherapy significantly earlier than possible through clinical examination. MRI size measurements were superior to clinical examination at all time points, predicting both complete tumor response and residual cancer burden.
Study examines BI-RADS and MRI in predicting breast cancer
A multicenter study found that the Breast Imaging and Reporting Data Systems (BI-RADS) terminology used by radiologists is useful in predicting malignancy in breast lesions detected with MRI. Features such as irregular shape, spiculated margins, and marked enhancement are most predictive of cancer.
Preop MRI valuable in detecting additional malignancies in dense & not dense breasts
A new study found that preoperative MRI exams are equally effective in detecting additional malignancies and high-risk lesions in both dense and non-dense breasts. The study suggests that breast density should not influence the decision to perform a preoperative MRI.
6 month follow-up of patients with benign MRI-guided breast biopsies may not be necessary
A new study found that a 6-month follow-up MRI after a benign breast biopsy is not necessary, according to the American Roentgen Ray Society. The study included 144 patients with 176 lesions and found no malignancies on follow-up MR imaging, except for one patient who had minimal atypical ductal hyperplasia
US spends far more for health care than 12 industrialized nations, but quality varies
The US spent nearly $8,000 per person in 2009 on health care services, while other countries in the study spent between one-third and two-thirds as much. Higher prices and greater use of technology appear to be the main factors driving high rates of US spending.
McLean Report on nanotechnology that may enhance medication delivery and improve MRI performance
Researchers at McLean Hospital have developed a new category of nanoparticles that can non-invasively cross the blood-brain barrier, transporting various types of drugs. These nanoparticles also outperform existing MRI contrast agents, offering a significant improvement in imaging performance and reduced gadolinium toxicity.
Study amplifies understanding of hearing in baleen whales
A new study published in The Anatomical Record reveals that some baleen whales have specialized fats associated with their jaws, similar to those found in toothed whales. This discovery sheds light on the auditory anatomy of these animals and challenges previous assumptions about their hearing systems.
Investments in physics technology and education are key to the future success of medicine
Physics has made significant contributions to health since its inception, with Nobel Prizes awarded for X-ray discovery. Investments in physics technology and education will enable innovations like nanomedicine and personalized healthcare.
Aging of the brain: Genetic modifications now identified
Researchers have identified genetic mutations linked to hippocampal shrinkage, a recognized biological marker of Alzheimer's disease. The study found that these mutations affect genes involved in cell death, embryonic development, and neuronal migration.
SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 16, 2012
New MRI technique may predict progress of dementias
A new MRI technique uses computer modeling to predict the rate and physical path of degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. The study supports the idea that these diseases spread through the brain along specific neuronal pathways, similar to prion diseases.
Patients want immediate access to radiology test results
A study at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found that patients prefer immediate access to radiology test results, even for complex diagnoses. The study showed that about half of participants preferred instant access, while a third preferred access within three days.
SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateApr 2, 2012
Brain wiring a no-brainer?
A new brain imaging study has revealed a pervasive 3D grid structure with no diagonals, similar to the streets of New York City. The grid structure is continuous and consistent at all scales across humans and other primate species.
Interventional radiology: Potential breakthrough to treat men's enlarged prostate
Prostatic artery embolization shows promise in treating lower urinary tract symptoms and improving quality of life for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Clinical success was seen in 91% of treated individuals, with significant volume reduction in prostate size.
MRI screening for women with a family history of breast cancer but no genetic predisposition
A recent study suggests that MRI screening could be a cost-effective option for women with a familial risk of breast cancer, despite being expensive. The research found that adding MRI to standard mammography screening reduces deaths by 24% at a lower cost per year of life gained.
BUSM study demonstrates tomosynthesis effective in diagnosing knee osteoarthritis
A recent study published in Radiology shows that tomosynthesis is more beneficial in diagnosing knee osteoarthritis than conventional X-ray imaging. The study detected more osteophytes and subchondral cysts in the knee joint, improving sensitivity by up to 29% and 50% respectively.
MRI techniques improve pulmonary embolism detection
Researchers have developed a new MRI technique that significantly improves the detection of pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening condition. The addition of two magnetic resonance imaging sequences to a common MR angiography technique boosts detection rates to 84%, reducing the need for ionizing radiation and contrast agents.
Prolonged space travel causes brain and eye abnormalities in astronauts
Prolonged space travel has been found to cause brain and eye abnormalities in astronauts, similar to those seen in intracranial hypertension of unknown cause. MRI scans revealed optic nerve expansion, eyeball flattening, and pituitary gland changes in astronauts exposed to microgravity for extended periods.