Abstract: An ultrasonic probe that acquires an ultrasonic image to diagnose or treat an object, and an ultrasonic imaging apparatus including the same, wherein the ultrasonic probe includes a case, a transducer disposed inside the case to generate ultrasonic waves, a biopsy needle inserted into an object in the vicinity of the case, and a sensor unit including a sensor provided to measure a position of the biopsy needle and disposed inside the transducer, wherein the transducer includes a piezoelectric layer configured to generate ultrasonic waves, a sound absorbing layer disposed on one side of the piezoelectric layer to absorb the ultrasonic waves generated from the piezoelectric layer, and a sound absorbing member disposed on one side of the sound absorbing layer, and the sensor unit is disposed inside the sound absorbing member.

Abstract: Disclosed are nanocrystals comprising metals and metal alloys, which are formed by a process that results in a layer of graphite in direct contact with the metallic core. The nanocrystals may be used in vivo as MRI contrast agents, X-ray contrast agents, near IR (NIR) heating agents, drug delivery, protein separation, catalysis etc. The nanocrystals may be further functionalized with a hydrophilic coating, e.g., phospholipid-polyethylene glycol, which improves in vivo stability. The process comprises chemical vapor deposition of metals adsorbed onto silica as a fine powder, in conjunction with a carbon containing gas, which coats the metal particles. The silica is then etched away. Preferred metals include iron, gold, cobalt, platinum, ruthenium and mixtures thereof, e.g., FeCo and AuFe. The process permits control of the alloy compositions, size, and other characteristics.