Development Of Microscope-in-a-needle Devices For Improved Clinical Diagnostics
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$327,746.00
Summary
We have developed a new high-resolution optical imaging technology. The unique aspect of our research has been to redesign the imaging probe, miniaturising it to a few hundred microns in diameter, and encase it in a hypodermic needle – a ‘microscope-in-a-needle’. We are developing specific imaging probes to aid in the assessment of lung disease; the diagnosis of liver disease; and integrated into a brain biopsy needle to enable safer brain biopsies.
Aspirin For The Prevention Of Cognitive Decline In The Elderly: A Neuro-Vascular Imaging Study (ENVIS-ion) From ASPREE
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,341,232.00
Summary
The ENVIS-ion trial will examine whether Aspirin is effective in delaying the onset of worsening of thinking and memory abilities in healthy older adults. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain structure will detect markers of early worsening of thinking and memory abilities. Blood vessels in the back of the eye (retina) share many features with vessels in the brain. We will compare whether aspirin lessens changes over time of features shown with brain MRI and retinal photography.
The Role Of Intense Physical Activity In Protecting The Ageing Brain
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$600,079.00
Summary
Previous research supports the notion that physical activity plays a role in maintaining brain health and preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Nevertheless, the type of activity (i.e. intensity of physical activity) that is of greatest benefit to the brain is yet to be established. This project aims to identify the most beneficial exercise intensity, in terms of brain health, measured utilising brain imaging technology.
Quantitative multi-modal optical imaging of deep tissue. This project aims to create new tools to quantify the structural and functional properties of tissue. Combining multiple optical imaging technologies (multi-modal) into a single, miniaturised probe, these tools could enable physiologists and biomedical researchers to obtain new insight into disease. Encasing the highly miniaturised probe within a medical needle is aimed to allow insertion of the 'needle probe' deep into tissue, extending o ....Quantitative multi-modal optical imaging of deep tissue. This project aims to create new tools to quantify the structural and functional properties of tissue. Combining multiple optical imaging technologies (multi-modal) into a single, miniaturised probe, these tools could enable physiologists and biomedical researchers to obtain new insight into disease. Encasing the highly miniaturised probe within a medical needle is aimed to allow insertion of the 'needle probe' deep into tissue, extending optical imaging to areas not previously accessible. The project could develop novel quantification models to allow longitudinal assessment and comparison between subjects. Validating the tools with specific biomarkers, it could provide outcomes in breast and liver cancer, and a framework to explore other diseases.Read moreRead less
Understanding graphitization: developing a model for activated carbons. For over 60 years it has remained a puzzle why some carbons graphitise under heating while others do not. The question is of practical importance as oxidation of non-graphitising carbons produces activated carbon, a product of high value with industrial, medical and environmental applications. Using computational and experimental techniques the project will study the graphitisation process and pinpoint the structural element ....Understanding graphitization: developing a model for activated carbons. For over 60 years it has remained a puzzle why some carbons graphitise under heating while others do not. The question is of practical importance as oxidation of non-graphitising carbons produces activated carbon, a product of high value with industrial, medical and environmental applications. Using computational and experimental techniques the project will study the graphitisation process and pinpoint the structural elements which inhibit it. Based on these findings the project aims to develop a nanoscale atomistic model for activated carbons. This is expected to be an important contribution to the field of chemical engineering in which current models of activated carbon neglect either curvature in the network or the presence of oxygen.Read moreRead less
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE140100009
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,064,000.00
Summary
Ultra-high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system for physical applications. Ultra-high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system for physical applications: Ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging provides unique high contrast images at previously inaccessible levels of resolution (<0.1mm). It non-invasively provides unprecedented information on chemical and biochemical processes including functional biological mechanisms. This infrastructure will be the focal point for ....Ultra-high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system for physical applications. Ultra-high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system for physical applications: Ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging provides unique high contrast images at previously inaccessible levels of resolution (<0.1mm). It non-invasively provides unprecedented information on chemical and biochemical processes including functional biological mechanisms. This infrastructure will be the focal point for more than 100 academics and HDR students. It will take Australia to the forefront of magnetic resonance imaging capability as well as providing unique insights into diffusion and electrophoretic problems central to designing next generation energy storage. Outcomes will range from agricultural advances, higher performing batteries, and more effective cancer treatments as well advancing Australia's fundamental scientific capabilities.Read moreRead less
Imaging defects at atomic resolution via state-of-the-art atomic force microscopy and petascale simulations. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) promises to deliver resolution of individual atoms on surfaces and therefore, in principle, is capable of observing surface defects. However, the image obtained is a convolution of many complex interactions. Thus the key questions are what is being actually observed when we see something with “atomic resolution” in AFM and can point defects be really detected ....Imaging defects at atomic resolution via state-of-the-art atomic force microscopy and petascale simulations. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) promises to deliver resolution of individual atoms on surfaces and therefore, in principle, is capable of observing surface defects. However, the image obtained is a convolution of many complex interactions. Thus the key questions are what is being actually observed when we see something with “atomic resolution” in AFM and can point defects be really detected? The aim of this proposal is to combine state-of-the-art experimental AFM techniques with computer simulations that are capable of generating AFM images to answer these questions. Our ability to harness the potential of AFM for many applications in areas such as nanoscience and crystal engineering hinges on being able to correctly interpret AFM images.Read moreRead less