Abstract: A method of producing a series of vasculature images over an extended field of view (FOV) larger than an FOV of an MRI system includes acquiring initial time-resolved image data from the vasculature and, during the acquiring process, reconstructing, in substantially real-time, a series of three-dimensional (3D) tracking images of the initial portion of the vasculature illustrating a current position of a contrast bolus in the vasculature as the contrast bolus passes through the initial portion of the vasculature. Based on a current position of the contrast bolus, the subject is moved to a subsequent imaging station to acquire subsequent time-resolved image data and reconstruct subsequent 3D tracking images of subsequent portions of the vasculature. This process is repeated and then an image is assembled that extends over the extended FOV using the initial time-resolved image data and the subsequent time-resolved image data.

Abstract: A method of sampling in pure phase encode MRI including restricting sampled points to a specified region.

Abstract: Hyperpolarized samples (i.e., samples having fractional spin polarization P of at least 0.1) of a target molecular species are created through spin transfer from hyperpolarized xenon atoms or other source isotopes. Reversible nanoscale solid state contact is achieved between the hyperpolarized xenon atoms and molecules of a target species. The resulting solid state mixture is exposed to conditions of magnetic field and temperature designed to allow or even facilitate transfer of spin polarization from the xenon to the target molecules. The xenon and the target species are then separated under conditions that substantially preserve the polarization of the target species. The hyperpolarized target species can then be introduced into a subject of a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiment.

Abstract: The invention improves the quality of image diagnosis by a user. An image processing unit compares each pixel value of a perfusion image with a threshold, and extracts a lesion candidate region as a collateral circulation candidate or bypass blood vessel candidate from the perfusion image based on a comparison result. The image processing unit displays the lesion candidate region together with a blood vessel image representing the spatial distribution of blood vessels in a head.

Abstract: A method for reconstructing high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slices, including: receiving a thick MRI slice of bodily tissue acquired using a single MRI scan, wherein the thick slice has a high SNR; receiving two thin MRI slices of the bodily tissue acquired using a single MRI scan, wherein each of the two thin MRI slices has a low SNR; and reconstructing multiple high SNR thin slices of the bodily tissue using the thick slice and the two thin slices.

Abstract: A disposable fluid connector includes a first single-use tubing component having proximal and distal ends and a second single-use tubing component having proximal and distal ends, where the first single-use tubing component and the second single-use tubing component are each usable only for a single patient procedure. The disposable fluid connector also includes a connection comprising an electrical connector that is configured to electrically connect the connection to both a powered injector and to an external medical device, where the disposable fluid connector comprises a disposable cassette including a portion that is non-removably attached to both the first single-use tubing component and the second single-use tubing component.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for the automated classification of an image property of a magnetic resonance image. In an embodiment, the method includes determining at least the parameters T, T2 and proton density of at least two tissues imaged in the magnetic resonance image or prespecifying at least two sets of at least these parameters; calculating the signal intensity in the center of the k-space for each imaged tissue or each set of parameters; and classifying the image property as a function of the calculated signal intensities. A magnetic resonance device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for performing a combined magnetic resonance/positron emission tomography scan of an examination object in an MR/PET system. An embodiment of the method entails acquiring first magnetic resonance data using a first readout gradient field. The first readout gradient field is chosen such that, at a location of the field of view of the magnetic resonance system, a distortion caused by a nonlinearity of the first readout gradient field and a distortion caused by a B0 field inhomogeneity substantially cancel each other out. First magnetic resonance images for planning the combined magnetic resonance/positron emission tomography session and determining an attenuation correction map for a positron emission tomography scan are determined on the basis of the first magnetic resonance data. Positron emission data and second magnetic resonance data are acquired using a second readout gradient field.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a medical image processing apparatus includes an image data acquisition part, a range setting part and a blood vessel image generation part. The image data acquisition part receives one of X-ray contrast image and subtraction image, of an imaging region including blood vessels of an object. The subtraction image are generated by subtraction processing between the X-ray contrast image and non-contrast X-ray image. The range setting part sets a target range in the X-ray contrast image or subtraction image. The blood vessel image generation part derives time changes in concentrations of a contrast agent based on the X-ray contrast image or subtraction image, and generates blood vessel image having pixel values corresponding to times, at which concentrations of the contrast agent become a specific condition, within the target range and pixel values corresponding to concentrations of the contrast agent outside the target range.

Abstract: An elongate electrical lead assembly that reduces localized heating due to MR scanner-induced currents includes a first elongate electrical lead having a series of alternating single layer coil sections and multi-layer coil sections, a second elongate electrical lead having a series of alternating single layer coil sections and multi-layer coil sections, and a third elongate electrical lead having a coiled section that coaxially surrounds the first and second electrical leads. Each multi-layer coil section of the second electrical lead is coiled around a respective single layer coil section of the first electrical lead, and each single layer coil section of the second electrical lead is coiled around a respective multi-layer coil section of the first electrical lead.

Abstract: An MR Spectroscopy (MRS) system and approach is provided for diagnosing painful and non-painful discs in chronic, severe low back pain patients (DDD-MRS). A DDD-MRS pulse sequence generates and acquires DDD-MRS spectra within intervertebral disc nuclei for later signal processing & diagnostic analysis. An interfacing DDD-MRS signal processor receives output signals of the DDD-MRS spectra acquired and is configured to optimize signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by an automated system that selectively conducts optimal channel selection, phase and frequency correction, and frame editing as appropriate for a given acquisition series. A diagnostic processor calculates a diagnostic value for the disc based upon a weighted factor set of criteria that uses MRS data extracted from the acquired and processed MRS spectra along regions associated with multiple chemicals that have been correlated to painful vs. non-painful discs.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, there is provided an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a data acquisition unit configured to scan a three-dimensional region in a subject having a contrast agent injected therein over a predetermined period by using ultrasonic waves and to thereby acquire ultrasonic data concerning the three-dimensional region over the predetermined period, a volume data generation unit configured to generate first volume data in each time phase in an analysis period by using the ultrasonic data concerning the three-dimensional region over the analysis period in the predetermined period and to generate second volume data indicative of contrast agent temporal information about the analysis period and third volume data indicative of a contrast agent characteristic amount at each position in the three-dimensional region in the analysis period, and an image generation unit configured to generate a projected image by using the second volume data and the third volume data.

Abstract: A method for producing hyperpolarized sample material for use in magnetic resonance investigations involves preparing a target material containing high ? nuclei with a short T1, a polarizing agent with a broad EPR line, and low ? nuclei with a long T1. The polarizing agent in the target material is irradiated with microwave radiation, wherein the target material is at a cryogenic temperature and exposed to a static magnetic field B0?4.0 T, thus polarizing the high ? nuclei by DNP, and the polarization is transferred from the high ? nuclei to the low ? nuclei by Cross Polarization. A dissolved sample material is prepared containing the hyperpolarized low ? nuclei from the target material. Nuclei with a long longitudinal relaxation time T1 can thereby be quickly hyperpolarized to a high polarization level.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical device for injecting contrast media including at least two separate vessels and immiscible contents inside one and/or both of the vessels, an injector and a distributor arranged such as to establish alternating communication between said vessels and said injector, said medical device being characterised in that it includes a means for providing said alternating communication at a frequency of 0.2 to 5 Hz.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible sensor for measuring torque with respect to an axis of rotation in conjunction with an applied linear force includes a shaft arranged in a longitudinal direction substantially along the axis of rotation, a base component arranged along the axis of rotation and displaced with respect to the shaft, a torque detector assembly configured to be coupled to rotational motion of the shaft about the axis of rotation relative to the base component, and a linear-force detector assembly configured to be coupled to linear motion of the shaft from a force applied in a direction substantially coincident with the axis of rotation relative to the base component. The torque detector assembly and the linear-force detector assembly are substantially de-coupled from each other such that torque measurements are substantially independent of linear force measurements. The MRI compatible sensor consists essentially of MRI compatible materials.

Abstract: A method for free-breathing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using iterative image-based respiratory motion correction is provided. An MRI system is used to acquired k-space data and navigator data from a subject. The k-space data is then sorted into a plurality of data bins using the navigator data. A motion correction parameter is estimated for each data bin and is applied to the respective k-space data in that bin. The corrected k-space data segments are then combined to form a corrected k-space data set, from which an image is reconstructed. The process may be iteratively repeated until an image quality metric is optimized; for example, until an image sharpness measure is sufficiently maximized.

Abstract: A dispenser is provided for producing a nuclear hyperpolarized contrast agent. The dispenser comprises a chamber to receive a compound. A photonic hyperpolarization system generates an OAM-photonic beam endowed with orbital angular momentum and is arranged to direct the OAM-photonic beam into the chamber so as to generate nuclear hyperpolarization in the compound. The chamber has an output over which the hyperpolarized compound can be issued. Since the hyperpolarization is generated ex-vivo, the penetration depth of the OAM-photonic beam in biological tissue is irrelevant for the present invention.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to methods and apparatus for using hyperpolarization to improve imaging. Am exemplary embodiment, a PASADENA polarizer, is capable of delivering 2.5-5 ml of highly hyperpolarized biological 13C and 15N imaging reagents in less than one minute, and capable of repeated delivery every 5-8 minutes. Exemplary quality control sequences are also provided to create versatile methods, systems, and apparatuses for a variety of biomolecules, capable of undergoing reaction with parahydrogen necessary for effective PASADENA. The subject matter simplifies the technology for routine liquid state generation of hyperpolarized molecules for 13C and 15N subsecond imaging and spectroscopy in vivo and further advance the clinical application of this technology. Methods and systems for providing magnetic shielding are also provided.

Abstract: One object of the present invention is to perform compartmental analysis of the dynamics of a tracer in the brain, and the present invention provides a compartmental analysis system including a measurement apparatus that measures the strength of an electromagnetic wave from a tracer and a compartmental analyzer that performs compartmental analysis of the dynamics of the tracer in the brain on the basis of the strength of the electromagnetic wave, wherein the compartmental analyzer includes a rate constant calculation unit that calculates a rate constant when the tracer moves between compartments on the basis of the strength of an electromagnetic wave in a first compartment corresponding to the cerebral blood vessel in the brain or an input function in the first compartment, the strength of an electromagnetic wave in a second compartment corresponding to the brain tissue in the brain, and the strength of an electromagnetic wave in a third compartment corresponding to the cerebral sulcus or cerebral ventricle i

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining the distribution of an imaging agent in a volume. The method comprises the acquisition of at least one three-dimensional functional image of the volume; the segmentation of the volume into one or more compartments; the representation of the three-dimensional imaging agent activity from the functional image by the product of a scaling factor and a non-affine transformation of a template imaging agent activity; the calculation of a projected imaging agent activity from the thus represented imaging agent activity on a planar surface; the acquisition of a planar image of the imaging agent activity in the volume; the registration of the projected imaging agent activity with the planar image; the comparison of the acquired planar image with the calculated projected imaging agent activity; and the modification of the representation of the three-dimensional imaging agent activity.

Abstract: Methods for achieving suppression of blood pool signal to image contrast-enhanced organs and vascular walls using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging technology. After administration of e.g., an intravenous contrast agent, an RF pulse sequence is applied that includes a preparatory section designed to modify signal from organ tissue differently than blood pool signal, followed by an inversion RF pulse. MR signals are then allowed to evolve during a wait time that is sufficiently long to permit tissue species with dissimilar T1 relaxation times to separate in signal yet short enough so that blood signal has greater negative magnetization than other tissues of interest. MRI data is then acquired with phase sensitive reconstruction so that blood pool signal is suppressed compared with the tissues of interest.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a process of injury therapy includes monitoring a Nitric Oxide level of the injury, generating a controlling signal by comparing the Nitric oxide level with a predefined threshold, and adjusting a dosage of light for the injury therapy according to the controlling signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to bifunctional compounds, the bifunctional compounds for use in molecular imaging and therapy, methods of molecular imaging using the bifunctional compounds and kits including the bifunctional compounds for use molecular imaging. The bifunctional compounds have a tripodal hydroxypyridinone chelating portion and may be conjugated to a targeting group so that the compounds target specific cells or tissues in a subject.

Abstract: Methods for achieving suppression of blood pool signal to image contrast-enhanced organs and vascular walls using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging technology. MRI data is then acquired with phase sensitive reconstruction so that blood pool signal is suppressed compared with the tissues of interest.

Abstract: An apparatus combines magnetic resonance (MR) and nuclear imaging of human breast for cancer diagnosis. An MRI system including an MR breast RF coil is combined with a nuclear imaging system having a detector disposed or disposable within the MR breast RF coil arranged and configured for the performance of simultaneous or sequential coregistered breast MRI and nuclear imaging. A selectively controlled compression mechanism for lightly compresses the breast being imaged. The remotely controlled compression mechanism is integrated with the MR breast RF coil.

Abstract: A control apparatus is disclosed, for a medical examination apparatus, for controlling a first injection of contrast agent for an examination, a breathing command and a recording of an examination image of an examination area of a patient after a circulation time has elapsed. In at least one embodiment, the control apparatus includes a control unit for controlling the start of the injection after the start of the breathing command. This makes it possible to provide reliable evaluation capability for the examination images that are produced, even for examinations with a circulation time which is short in comparison to the breathing command, for example perfusion examinations.

Abstract: A system for measuring analyte concentrations has porous-walled nanocontainers containing multiple magnetic nanoparticles, the magnetic nanoparticles coated with a selective binder that is analyte-responsive and binds a the analyte, an indicator substance releasable from the selective binder by the analyte, or an indicator substance cleavable by the analyte, apparatus for exposing the nanocontainers to a fluid potentially containing the analyte, and magnetic spectroscopy of Brownian motion sensing apparatus for detecting agglutination of the nanoparticles or binding of analyte to the nanoparticles.

Abstract: A method and a system for determining a blood velocity between a first point and a second point in a blood vessel are presented. In the method, a time series of registered images of the blood vessel are received and subsequently scanned to select a base image and a test image. The base image corresponds to a begin time that represents a time instance when a contrast agent reached the first point. The test image corresponds to an end time that represents a time instance when the contrast agent reached the second point. A time elapsed between the begin time and the end time is determined. A length of the blood vessel is determined. The blood velocity is calculated by comparing the length of the blood vessel and the elapsed time.

Abstract: A marker delivery device includes an elongated delivery cannula which has a distal end section, an inner lumen and a discharge opening in the distal end section in communication with the inner lumen. A plunger is slidably disposed within the inner lumen of the elongated delivery cannula. The plunger has a distal end. At least one elongated fibrous marker body is pre-formed prior to being inserted into the inner lumen of the elongated delivery cannula. The at least one elongated fibrous marker body is slidably disposed within the inner lumen of the elongated delivery cannula at a location distal to the distal end of the plunger. The pre-formed at least one elongated fibrous marker body includes a fibrous material compressed and impregnated with a binding agent and freeze dried in the compressed condition. A releasable plug is disposed within a distal portion of the inner lumen and distal to the at least one elongated fibrous marker body.

Abstract: In certain embodiments novel nanoparticles (nanowontons) are provided that are suitable for multimodal imaging and/or therapy. In one embodiment, the nanoparticles include a first biocompatible (e.g., gold) layer, an inner core layer (e.g., a non-biocompatible material), and a biocompatible (e.g., gold) layer. The first gold layer includes a concave surface that forms a first outer surface of the layered nanoparticle. The second gold layer includes a convex surface that forms a second outer surface of the layered nanoparticle. The first and second gold layers encapsulate the inner core material layer. Methods of fabricating such nanoparticles are also provided.

Abstract: Novel labeled compounds and metabolites thereof are disclosed, as well as pharmaceutical compositions including the compounds, and methods of using the labeled and unlabeled compounds, and specifically, 2-Amino-5-guanidino-pentanoic acid (3-{4-[3-(2-amino-5-guanidino-pentanoylamino)-propyl]-piperazin-1-yl}-propyl)-amide and metabolites thereof, for imaging, detecting and assessing disorders and diseases, such as arthritis and, more specifically, osteoarthritis by tracking proteoglycan and glycosaminoglycan content of cartilage. Also, pharmaceutical compositions comprising labeled and/or unlabeled 1,4-Bis(3-aminopropyl)piperazine are disclosed and methods of using the same.

Abstract: The present invention includes drug-loaded, polymer nanoparticles and liposomes further incorporating a non-paramagnetic, bioorganic CEST agent. The CEST agent allows for an alternative approach to accomplish MR-compatible in vivo tracking of drug-loaded polymer nanoparticles and liposomes, including simultaneous multi-color mapping of more than one particle type, or of the same particle type delivered via two different routes (e.g., systemic versus local). Additionally, the present invention can include a library of biodegradable diamagnetic (DIA)CEST agents. These DIACEST agents can be incorporated into nanoparticle-based delivery systems, such as stealth liposomes loaded with doxorubicin and stealth polymer nanoparticles loaded with paclitaxel. These systems can be tracked, according to an embodiment of the present invention using CEST-based MRI (compared to SPECT/CT) as a method to monitor the efficiency with which the nanoparticles reach the targeted tumors and how long they persist.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical composition including nanoparticles configured for enhanced phagocytosis by phagocytic cells and labeled with a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe bound to the outer surface thereof, and uses thereof in the detection of activated immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS) of a subject.

Abstract: A method for characterizing regions on a map or image generated from diffusion image data of a region of a patient's body, including: loading into a data processing device image data achieved by calculation from MR diffusion imaging; providing a first threshold level to distinguish pixels with image data values that are above or below the values found that are not representative of pathological portions of the region; providing a second threshold level higher than the first threshold; deriving a measure related to the gradient pattern of those pixels that lie within a margin zone defined by those pixels that satisfy a criterion of the second threshold but do not satisfy a criterion of the first threshold and; outputting the measure related to the gradient as a parameter indicative of the likelihood that the pixels that are within the margin zone and/or a region of the body part are cancerous.

Abstract: Systems and methods for Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRI) are provided. One method includes obtaining Magnetic Resonance (MR) velocity data and determining a distance map for one or more vessels to define a distance path. The method also includes calculating, using the MR velocity data, at a plurality of time intervals and for a plurality of pixels (i) a distance traveled during a current time interval as a current distance traveled, wherein a total distance traveled is incremented by the current distance traveled and (ii) a bolus signal using a bolus signal profile, the distance path and total distance traveled, wherein a current time interval is incremented by a defined time step.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides various methods and systems for performing magnetic resonance studies. In accordance with many embodiments, image or other information of interest is derived from super radiant pulses.

Abstract: A system enables determination of at least one parameter for an injection procedure to be performed on a patient in connection with a diagnostic imaging procedure. The system includes a processor and one or more algorithms. Embodied within the algorithm(s) is a model descriptive of the propagation of a fluid within the patient from a site of injection thereof to each of at least two regions of interest thereof. The algorithm(s) permits one discrete data point from each of at least two time enhancement curves, derived via a test bolus, to be input into the model to determine values of physiological parameters associated with the patient, preferably those related to cardiopulmonary function. The algorithm(s) also allows the values of the physiological parameters to be input into the model wherein the parameter(s) of the injection procedure that will be performed on the patient at issue are determined.

Abstract: A contrast agent can be infused into a subject and a determination can be made of a VOD and/or a concentration gradient of the contrast agent in the VOD. The contrast agent can be infused in the subject using selected parameters. A correlation to a selected material can be made to determine parameters for infusion the selected material.

Abstract: A method for differentiation of normal myocardium from diffuse disease using T mapping includes acquiring one or more images of a patient by an imaging apparatus, generating a T1 map from the one or more images, defining a region of interest within the one or more images, determining the average T1 value within the region of interest, comparing the average T1 value within the region of interest to a cut-off T1 value, and determining a diagnosis of the region of interest from the comparison.

Abstract: The present invention provides curcumin-derived near infrared (NIR) imaging probes. Upon interacting with amyloid ? aggregates, these probes undergo a range of changes, qualifying them as “smart” probes. The inventors have demonstrated that probes of the invention have the capacity to monitor the progression of Alzheimer's disease in an in vivo animal model. In addition, the present invention encompasses probes useful as PET imaging agents, MRI imaging agents and multimodal imaging agents, as well as related methods of detecting and imaging amyloid ? aggregates and plaques.

Abstract: A scanning apparatus, is used to effect multiple images of a tumor in which a contrast agent has been localized as a detectable marker over a selected time to map the change in the imaged marker. The rate of change in the imaged marker and/or contrast intensity of the dyed tissues is used to assess tumor aggressiveness and as an early predictor of response to cancer therapy. In particular, following the marking of tumor or cancerous tissues by the initial localization of an imageable contrast agent, the rate of change in the volume and/or area of the imaged marker is used to provide an indication of tumor interstitial fluid pressure (TIFP).

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for the diagnosis, amelioration, and treatment of back pain, particularly lumbar back pain, in particular, back pain caused by muscular abnormalities, vertebral body osteoporosis, and disc degeneration. Patients with back pain are categorized into specific subsets that are deemed to have potential to respond to therapy. In particular, the invention includes a therapy involving stimulation of neovascularization so as to increase perfusion of various spine compartments.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter demonstrates that a spin state which has zero magnetic resonance signal, but an extremely long lifetime, can be used to store magnetization, which can then be recovered into an observable transition. Coupled with hyperpolarization techniques, this permits the preparation of a wide range of contrast agent molecules for use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques that have long effective relaxation time.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, compositions, systems, and kits comprising core-satellite nanocomposites useful for photothermal and/or MRI applications (e.g., tumor treatment and/or imaging). In certain embodiments, the core-satellite nanocomposites comprise: i) a core nanoparticle complex comprising a biocompatible coating surrounding a nanoparticle core, and ii) at least one satellite component attached to, or absorbed to, the biocompatible coating. In some embodiments, the nanoparticle core and satellite component are composed of near-infrared photothermal agent material and/or MRI contrast agent material. In further embodiments, the satellite component is additionally or alternatively composed of near-infrared optical dye material.

Abstract: A system and method for generating dynamic susceptibility contrast information from medical imaging data acquired using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system and from a subject having received a dose of a contrast agent. A plurality of images are acquired of the subject. Using the images, an arrival time correction (ATC) is determined that includes a value for at least one of a time shift variable, a time stretch variable, and an amplitude scale variable. The ATC is applied to a model of dynamic susceptibility contrast that relates a measure of signal change over time with a correction term to dynamic susceptibility contrast information to create a corrected model of dynamic susceptibility contrast including the ATC. At least one contrast agent concentration curve is generated from the plurality of images using the corrected model.

Abstract: An implantable tissue marker incorporates a contrast agent scaled within a chamber in a container formed from a solid material. The contrast agent is selected to produce a change, such as an increase, in signal intensity under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An additional contrast agent may also be sealed within the chamber to provide visibility under another imaging modality, such as computed tomographic (CT) imaging or ultrasound imaging.

Abstract: The invention provides materials, devices and methods for marking biopsy sites for a limited time. The biopsy-marking materials are ultrasound-detectable bio-resorbable powders, with powder particles typically between about 20 microns and about 800 microns in maximum dimension, more preferably between about 300 microns and about 500 microns. The powders may be formed of polymeric materials containing cavities sized between about 10 microns and about 500 microns, and may also contain binding agents, anesthetic agents, hemostatic agents, and radiopaque markers. Devices for delivering the powders include tubes configured to contain the powders and to fit within a biopsy cannula, the powders being ejected by action of a syringe. Systems may include a tube containing powder, and a syringe containing sterile saline. The tube may be configured to fit within a biopsy cannula such as a Mammotome® or SenoCor 360™ cannula.

Abstract: Improvements in magnetic resonance imaging methods to obtain three-dimensional models and diagnoses of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome are described.

Abstract: A method for diagnosing certain types of cancers provides a nanoparticle agent to be uptaken by cancer cells for diagnosis and treatment of certain cancers. A compound containing nanoparticles is directed toward a tumor site, and then a predetermined time period passes to allow the nanoparticles to be uptaken by the cancer cells. Imaging is then performed on the nanoparticles by an appropriate imaging device to determine the concentration of nanoparticles uptaken by the cancer cells. Finally, image data provided by the imaging device is analyzed to determine the concentration of nanoparticles and thereby determine whether a tumor is present. The nanoparticle agent can further be employed as a treatment of certain cancers. After the uptake of nanoparticles into the cells, a predetermined field applied to the nanoparticles for a sufficient period of time activates the magnetic cores of the nanoparticles to include hyperthermia-mediated destruction of the cancer cells.

Abstract: The subject matter described herein provides methods for developing an IMRT treatment plan for a radiotherapy system. In one aspect, the method can include providing initial treatment parameters. These parameters can include a number of isotopic beams, a transmission angle for each beam, a prescribed dose for a target, and dose volume histogram constraints. The method can further include determining an initial fluence map including one or more beamlets. The initial fluence map can specify a fluence value for each beamlet. The method can further include determining a delivery sequence for the fluence values in the initial fluence map. The delivery sequence can include one or more apertures formed by the leaves of a collimator. These apertures can have a specified size constrained to substantially less than a maximum size associated with the collimator, when the isotopic beam is near a critical structure. Related apparatus and systems are also described.