Abstract: A macromolecular contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging of the vascular system is constructed of a polymeric backbone structure with a plurality of spacer arms bonded to the backbone structure, each spacer arm terminating in at least one paramagnetic complex. The polymeric backbone thus serves as an amplifier by supporting a multitude of paramagnetic complexes, and the spacer arms contribute to the molecular weight. The spacer arms further contribute useful properties to the agent, such as hydrophilicity and the ability to cleave at a relatively rapid rate in blood.

Abstract: The properties of a tissue extracellular space, particularly the microvascular component of that space can be characterized by the use of x-ray diagnostic modalities in conjunction with particulate contrast agents. The present invention provides a method for characterizing a property of a tissue extravascular space utilizing radiopaque particulate contrast. Moreover, the present invention provides a novel class of particulate agents suitable for use in conjunction with the methods provided herein.

Abstract: The endothelial integrity of microvessels is disturbed in malignant tumors. We invented a method wherein we used MRI to define tumor microvascular permeabilities and correlated these permeabilities with histologic grade in tumors. Using macromolecular MRI contrast medium, we discovered tumor microvascular permeability values were significantly lower in benign tumors than in carcinomas. In addition, we found that the microvascular permeability values demonstrated a strong correlation with the histologic grade of carcinomas as determined by the Scarff-Bloom-Richardson grading system.

Abstract: A macromolecular contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging of the vascular system is constructed of a polymeric backbone structure with a plurality of spacer arms bonded to the backbone structure, each spacer arm terminating in at least one paramagnetic complex. The polymeric backbone thus serves as an amplifier by supporting a multitude of paramagnetic complexes, and the spacer arms contribute to the molecular weight. The spacer arms further contribute useful properties to the agent, such as hydrophilicity and the ability to cleave at a relatively rapid rate in blood.

Abstract: A method is provided for obtaining in vivo differentiation of tissues in an animal by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging comprising the steps of introducing into the animal a complex comprising a paramagnetic metal ion and a chelator.

Abstract: A method is provided for obtaining in vivo diferentiation of tissues in an animal by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging comprising the steps of introducing into the animal a complex comprising a paramagnetic ferric ion and a chelator. Particular contrast agents, Fe(HBED) and Fe(EHPG), are excretable by a hepatobiliary pathway.

Abstract: An infant incubator includes a table with an enclosing hood movably overlying the table. To work with the incubator, an exterior elevator can be clamped in position relative to the table and has a plunger movable vertically relative to the table. There are lifting arms on the plunger adapted to extend through slots in the hood and into engagement with arm-engaging means on an infant tray adapted to rest on the table beneath the hood. The tray preferably has an x-ray transparent bottom area and is movable by the lifting arms into various positions above an x-ray cassette on the table beneath the bottom area. Tubes and connectors can be fastened to the tray so as to move therewith as the elevator plunger operates the tray.