Abstract: A method is provided for treating a skin wound. In accordance with the method, an ultrasound image is obtained of a skin wound on a patient. The ultrasound image is processed to extract information that is correlated to a degree of wound healing. The degree of wound healing is assessed based at least in part on the extracted information. The skin wound is treated based at least in part based on the assessed degree of wound healing.

Abstract: In alternative embodiments, provided are methods and products of manufacture for photoacoustic imaging of the periodontium of individuals in need thereof for noninvasive periodontal probing depth measurements and periodontal pocket imaging and gingival thickness. In alternative embodiments, products of manufacture as provided herein can observe or measure soft tissue contrast, e.g., gums, the periodontium, or the oral mucosa can be imaged and/or measured.

Abstract: A method of identifying a subdermal feature in a subject includes directing optical energy into a subject to photoacoustically generate ultrasonic waves from a dermal or subdermal feature in tissue. Signals representing ultrasonic waves that are generated from the dermal or subdermal feature are received. The signals representing the ultrasonic waves are processed to generate image data of the dermal or subdermal feature. It is determined from the image data that the dermal or subdermal feature is a non-healing skin lesion selected from the group including a pressure ulcer, a diabetic foot ulcer, an arterial insufficiency injury, a decubitus ulcer, a diabetic ulcer, and an insufficiency injury.

Abstract: Systems and methods disclosed provide a device that effectively replaces the aPTT test. Chemical sensors are employed that bind to heparin and produce an acoustic signal. The acoustic signal is then used to monitor anti-coagulation therapy, instead of drawing blood, as in the aPTT test. Other quantities of interest can also be measured and monitored.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for probes, methods of using the probe, methods of making the probe, method of imaging a condition (e.g., pre-cancerous tissue, cancer, or a tumor), methods of planning resection of a brain tumor, methods of imaging a brain tumor, and the like.

Abstract: Biodegradable cellulose photoacoustic probes are provided that are able to detect biological targets and generate a detectable photoacoustic signal. The cellulose nanoparticles are biodegradable by cellulases. Clearance of the nanoparticles from a subject is enhanced and results in improved contrast of a photoacoustic-generated image. Methods to generate images by administering a cellulose nanoparticle probes to a subject and irradiating with light of a wavelength to emit photoacoustic energy detectable by sensors external to the subject are also provided. The detectable signal is convertible to a visual image of the nanoparticle probes in the subject. The methods may include allowing a cellulase to degrade nanoparticles so that undesirable background signals emitted are substantially reduced to increase the contrast and quality of the generated image.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for nanoparticles for acoustic imaging, methods of using the nanoparticles, methods of imaging a condition, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure include nanoparticles (e.g., silica nanoparticles) that can be used to image, detect, study, monitor, evaluate, and/or screen a sample or subject (e.g., whole-body or a portion thereof).

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for probes, methods of using the probe, methods of making the probe, method of imaging a condition (e.g., pre-cancerous tissue, cancer, or a tumor), methods of planning resection of a brain tumor, methods of imaging a brain tumor, and the like.