Many clinically relevant congenital malformations arise during mid to late embryonic stages. This period is challenging to image quantitatively in live embryos, necessitating the use of multiple specimens with increased experimental variability. Here we establish X-ray and blood-pool computed tomography (CT) contrast agent toxicity and teratogenesis thresholds for 3D Micro-CT imaging of live avian embryos. Day 4 chick embryos micro-injected with Visipaque™ (VP) developed for an additional 6 days without defect. X-ray radiation up to 798 mGy was nontoxic. Peak average contrast of 1,060 HU occurred within 1 hr of imaging at 50 μm resolution. VP-enhanced contrast persisted past 24 hr with delayed accumulation in the allantois. Regional volumes of VP-injected embryos were statistically identical to those of fixed embryos perfused with osmium tetroxide. We further quantified longitudinal volumetric morphogenesis of the allantois over 30 hr. These results demonstrate the safety and efficacy of contrast enhanced quantitative micro-CT imaging for live embryos.
Leading Edge Skin cancerS are one of the most common types of cancer in the United States [1], and melanoma has steadily increased over the last 20 years. Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is known as the main cause of damaging effects to the skin [1], [2], yet also the most preventable risk factor. Outdoor physical activity, an important health behavior, exposes the body to UVR and is thus ostensibly linked to increases the risk of sunburn, melanoma, and non-melanoma skin cancers [3], [4]. Simultaneously, new UVR sensors can play an essential role in ensuring users gain enough sunlight for Vitamin D synthesis for optimal health. However, accurately monitoring personal UVR exposure is historically complex and costly, and thus minimal research exists at the intersection of personal UVR exposure during physical activity.Due to these above concerns, the wearable industry is responding to the needs of researchers and consumers with improved UV-wearable technologies. Recent years have seen an influx of new technologies with wide-ranging form factors, uses, and target audiences. Some of these wearables are part of the same consumer-based industry that has emerged for smartwatches, fitness trackers, and running watches that work in tandem with smartphones, tablets, and
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