Abstract: A system for analyzing intact cotton, wherein the system comprises an X-ray scanner system and a plurality of sample containers, wherein at least one seed cotton sample container is structured and operable to retain a respective one of a plurality of intact cotton samples. The system additionally comprises a sample support platform that is structured and operable to move the plurality of sample containers past an image data generation assembly of the X-ray scanner system. The system further comprises a computer based system that is structured and operable to execute image analysis software to determine at least one metric of at least one of the intact cotton samples.

Abstract: A system for analyzing intact cotton, wherein the system comprises an X-ray scanner system and a plurality of sample containers, wherein at least one seed cotton sample container is structured and operable to retain a respective one of a plurality of intact cotton samples. The system additionally comprises a sample support platform that is structured and operable to move the plurality of sample containers past an image data generation assembly of the X-ray scanner system. The system further comprises a computer based system that is structured and operable to execute image analysis software to determine at least one metric of at least one of the intact cotton samples.

Abstract: A trait of interest is detected as being present within individual ones of a plurality of agricultural samples (such as seeds or plant tissues) by imaging the plurality of samples to form a magnetic resonance image. The image of the plurality of samples is then analyzed to detect image information indicative of the presence of the trait within one or more of the imaged samples. A determination is then made as to whether the trait is exhibited in individual ones of the samples based upon the foregoing analysis. As an example, the samples may be a plurality of seeds, and the detected trait may be oil. A determination is made, based on the image analysis, as to whether each individual seed in the multi-seed image contains oil. A further examination may be made to determine a relative content of oil in each seed as well as a content by weight.

Abstract: A contrast agent for nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy adapted for use in a living tissue comprising at least one reporter nucleus, together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is disclosed. The contrast agent exhibits a first spectral property when not bound by nitric oxide, and a second spectral property when bound by nitric oxide. Methods of using the contrast agents for the detection of nitric oxide are also disclosed.