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Stanford researchers develop tool that 'sees' internal body details 1,000 times smaller

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.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 31, 2008

MRI/PET scanner combo

The combined scanner uses a new technology to eliminate interference between MRI and PET systems, enabling simultaneous acquisition of structural and functional information. This innovation allows researchers to correlate tumor structure with functional information, providing deeper insights into cancer research.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 6, 2008

PET and bioluminescent imaging aid evaluation of stem cells' potential for new ways to treat disease

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.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 6, 2007

Great expectations -- study looks at why placebo effect varies from person to person

A new study found that people's responses to placebo treatments are linked to their brain's dopamine activity, particularly in the nucleus accumbens. The study used two types of brain scans to investigate this phenomenon and suggests that individual expectations play a significant role in determining the effectiveness of placebos.

Arthritis pain, the brain and the role of emotions

A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found that arthritis pain is processed in brain areas associated with emotions and fear. The medial pain system, including the cingulate cortex and amygdala, was activated during arthritic pain, suggesting a stronger emotional impact than experimental pain.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateMar 28, 2007

Insomnia drug can improve brain function

A new study reports that zolpidem, an insomnia drug, temporarily improved brain function in a patient with akinetic mutism. The patient was able to communicate and perform basic functions after receiving the drug for insomnia. PET scans revealed increased brain activity in areas involved in motivation and cognitive processing.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 13, 2007

New guidelines for assessing lymphoma treatment

The International Harmonization Project has developed new guidelines for assessing lymphoma treatment, providing uniform criteria for clinical trials and interpreting response to treatment. The revised guidelines incorporate PET scans and immunohistochemistry, allowing for more accurate assessment of tumor viability.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 23, 2007

New imaging technique identifies people-at-risk for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers developed a new imaging technique that detects abnormal brain protein deposits associated with Alzheimer's disease in mild cognitive impairment. The study found that the method was more effective in differentiating patients with Alzheimer's disease from normal subjects, and tracked disease progression over a two-year period.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 20, 2006

SRI medication effective in treating compulsive hoarding patients

A study of 79 patients diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and compulsive hoarding syndrome found that serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) medication, paroxetine, significantly improved symptoms. Compulsive hoarding is a psychiatric disorder characterized by failure to discard objects due to anxiety and excessive clutter.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateOct 24, 2006