Abstract: In a method and apparatus for classifying plaque in a blood vessel of a living subject using magnetic resonance imaging, a first magnetic resonance image is produced with a first intensity distribution of a cross-section of a vessel containing plaque, and a contrast agent is injected into the vascular system and a second magnetic resonance image of the cross-section of the vessel is produced with a second intensity distribution after a first time duration following the contrast agent injection, and a third magnetic resonance image of the cross-section of the vessel is produced with a third intensity distribution after a second time duration following the injection of the contrast agent, and the plaque is classified dependent on the respective intensity distributions of the magnetic resonance images.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for classifying plaque in a blood vessel of a living subject using magnetic resonance imaging, a first magnetic resonance image is produced with a first intensity distribution of a cross-section of a vessel containing plaque, and a contrast agent is injected into the vascular system and a second magnetic resonance image of the cross-section of the vessel is produced with a second intensity distribution after a first time duration following the contrast agent injection, and a third magnetic resonance image of the cross-section of the vessel is produced with a third intensity distribution after a second time duration following the injection of the contrast agent, and the plaque is classified dependent on the respective intensity distributions of the magnetic resonance images.

Abstract: An implant assembly and methods for loading implant devices which avoids the accidental deposition of transplanted material or other contaminates on the exterior of the device during transportation, storage, and handling are disclosed. The implant assembly of the invention may be used with a large variety of implant devices for implanting a variety of materials such as cells, tissue or other materials into a host. The implant assembly includes an implant device having an elongated port and a first chamber for holding material for implantation and a container with a second chamber for holding the implant device. The container functions to maintain the sterility and protect the physical integrity of the implant device during loading, storage, cryopreservation and transportation and is removed immediately prior to implantation of the device. The container may optionally include liquid media for cellular growth, maintenance, cryostorage, or transportation purposes.