Latest news with #CTscan
Sustainability Times
12 hours ago
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'Hidden for 80 Million Years': Rare Dinosaur Egg Reveals Stunning Secrets Through Groundbreaking CT Scan Analysis
IN A NUTSHELL 🦖 Paleontologists conducted CT scans on a rare dinosaur egg and a Giant Beaver skull at the New York State Museum. and a at the New York State Museum. 🔬 The scans revealed hidden internal structures, offering new scientific insights into these ancient species. into these ancient species. 🤝 The collaboration between the museum and Albany Medical Center highlights the importance of interdisciplinary efforts in paleontological research. in paleontological research. 📚 The findings promise to enhance our understanding of prehistoric life and serve as a valuable resource for educators and researchers. In an exciting collaboration between the New York State Museum and Albany Medical Center, paleontologists have embarked on a groundbreaking journey to uncover ancient secrets hidden within two rare artifacts: a dinosaur egg and a Giant Beaver skull. Utilizing advanced CT scanning technology, experts aim to delve deeper into the internal structures of these artifacts, offering a glimpse into the past that promises to revolutionize our understanding of these extinct species. This initiative not only highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration but also sets the stage for future discoveries that will enrich our knowledge and appreciation of natural history. Unraveling the Mysteries of the Duck-billed Dinosaur Egg The dinosaur egg under scrutiny is believed to belong to the Hadrosaur family, commonly known as duck-billed dinosaurs, which roamed the earth during the late Cretaceous Period. This egg, estimated to be between 70-80 million years old, provides a unique opportunity to explore the reproductive habits of these fascinating creatures. Although its exact origin is thought to be Asia, Hadrosaurs had a wide distribution, including regions in the Northeastern United States. The CT scan, while not definitive in identifying an embryo due to insufficient density variations, has revealed encouraging results. The egg's structural integrity appears intact, and the presence of a small internal cavity has opened new avenues for research. Scientists are eager to investigate this cavity further to determine its contents or significance. This discovery underscores the importance of ongoing paleontological research, which continues to shed light on the lives of extinct creatures. Remarkably, a recent discovery in Mongolia revealed a massive hadrosaurid footprint measuring approximately 35 inches across, further exemplifying the continuous advancements in our understanding of these ancient beings. As researchers delve deeper into the mysteries of the dinosaur egg, the potential for groundbreaking insights into the life and times of Hadrosaurs remains immense. '8,000 Dinosaur Bones Found': Canada's Fossil Graveyard Reveals One of the Most Terrifying Prehistoric Mass Death Sites Ever Unearthed Unlocking Secrets of the Rare Giant Beaver Skull The second artifact subjected to CT scanning is the skull of a Giant Beaver, scientifically known as Castoroides ohioensis. This extinct Pleistocene epoch rodent rivaled the size of a modern black bear, making it one of the largest beavers to have ever existed. The New York State Museum's collection includes the first described skull of this species, marking it as an invaluable specimen for scientific study. The examination of the Giant Beaver's skull through CT scans promises to yield unprecedented insights into its anatomy. Researchers anticipate discovering more about its diet, behavior, and evolutionary journey during the Ice Age. The extinction of the Giant Beaver, likely around 10,000 years ago, is attributed to a combination of climatic shifts and habitat destruction, offering a cautionary tale of environmental change. Dr. Robert Feranec, Director of Research and Collections, emphasizes the significance of these scans in enhancing our understanding of extinct creatures. The expertise of the scientists involved, combined with cutting-edge technology, allows for a closer look at these ancient relics, shedding light on their reproductive and developmental patterns. As research continues, the potential for new revelations about the Giant Beaver remains high. This Prehistoric Armored Fish From 465 Million Years Ago Could Be the Key to Understanding Why Our Teeth Still Hurt Collaborative Efforts in Scientific Exploration The success of the CT scans is a testament to the power of collaboration between different scientific disciplines. The partnership between the New York State Museum's paleontologists and radiological experts at Albany Medical Center has been pivotal in advancing this research. Such collaborations are crucial for unlocking and preserving the rich history of New York State and, by extension, our understanding of prehistoric life. The insights gained from the scans serve as momentum, propelling researchers closer to unveiling the secrets within the dinosaur egg and Giant Beaver skull. As museum researchers continue to analyze the data in the coming weeks and months, the anticipation for new findings grows. These efforts not only contribute to our scientific knowledge but also inspire future generations to appreciate and explore the wonders of natural history. Michael Mastroianni, Interim Deputy Commissioner of Cultural Education, highlights the long-term value of the information obtained from these scans. It will serve as an invaluable resource for researchers and educators, ensuring that the knowledge gained will benefit scientific inquiry and public education for years to come. 'Lost City Rises Again': Submerged Indian Metropolis Stuns Archaeologists and Forces a Rethink of All Human Civilization Timelines The Future of Paleontological Discovery As the research unfolds, the potential discoveries from the dinosaur egg and Giant Beaver skull hold significant promise for the field of paleontology. These findings could redefine our understanding of extinct species, offering a more comprehensive view of their lives and environments. The use of advanced technology like CT scanning represents a leap forward in our ability to explore and document ancient history with unprecedented detail. The continued analysis of these artifacts will likely yield new insights, further enriching our comprehension of the natural world. As we reflect on these scientific advancements, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our past to inform our future. The collaboration between institutions and the dedication of researchers play a vital role in ensuring that these treasures from the past are not only studied but celebrated. What other hidden secrets might be waiting to be discovered within the collections of museums around the world, and how might they shape our understanding of our planet's history? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.3/5 (26)
ABC News
3 days ago
- Health
- ABC News
Mother calls for change after daughter with intellectual disability told to wait five months for CT scan
One of Imogen's favourite games is to play doctor with her teddy. As she pretends to take a blood sample, it is clear how familiar she is with being reassured during medical procedures. "It's OK Teddy, it doesn't hurt," she tells a knitted bear fitted with a cannula. The five-year-old knows what it is like being scared of needles, hospitals and health workers. Imogen lives with a rare condition, which involves intellectual disability and profound hearing loss. To prepare for medical procedures, her parents use games, toys and stories. But nothing they have tried works when it comes to CT scans. Her mum Ineke once managed to get her into the room at Westmead Children's Hospital in Sydney, where the scanner was decorated with colourful fish to reassure young people. "It was just too overwhelming. Even though she desperately wanted to try, she was not able to," Ineke said. So when their ear nose and throat specialist had concerns a mass may be growing in her middle ear, a scan under anaesthetic was ordered. Ineke was shocked when she was told her daughter would have to wait five months for the procedure. Do you have a story to share? Email More than 450,000 Australians live with intellectual disability, according to government data. People with intellectual disability die on average 27 years earlier than the rest of the Australian population and have double the preventable death rate, according to research from UNSW's National Centre of Excellence in Intellectual Disability Health. A review into deaths of people with disability in care in Queensland also found "many people [were] not diagnosed with the condition that led to their death until either just before their death or at autopsy." Cathy Franklin, a researcher with the Queensland Centre for Intellectual and Developmental Disability and Autism Health, said there was not enough support for people with intellectual disability in the medical system. She said even having a simple procedure like a blood test could be challenging for this community and the people who cared for them. Accommodations that can help make it possible for a person with intellectual disability to undergo a medical procedure include role play or visual stories that explain the smells, sensations, sounds and movements to expect. Dr Franklin said only a few medical centres across Australia do this and are generally set up to accommodate children. "In most parts of Australia, there's simply nowhere to refer if someone with intellectual or developmental disability needs a blood test under sedation or even just with additional psychological support," she said. It took several weeks and many phone calls before Imogen's mum was able to secure an appointment for her CT scan under a general anaesthetic. When her GP saw the results, the family was told to take her straight to hospital. The radiologist's report noted the bones in her middle ear were "almost completely eroded" and other parts were facing "near complete obliteration". Within 48 hours, Imogen underwent urgent surgery to remove the rapidly advancing growth. "That there could have been even more serious consequences is really scary." Ineke said the family was grateful for the care Imogen received over the years across multiple hospitals, but lamented it often fell on individual healthcare workers to ensure her daughter received the care she needed. She has written to NSW Health asking for an increase to the number of days allocated to medical imaging under anaesthetic, worried that others were missing out on the kind of care Imogen received. "It was a near miss," Ineke said. "Many families, especially families who have kids with disabilities, don't have the time, energy or resources to be able to advocate in the way that I was able to." In a statement, NSW Health said it was "committed to providing safe, inclusive, person-centred care to people with disability". It said the decision to conduct imaging under sedation or general anaesthetic was based on the needs of the patient and in conversation with the treating practitioner, the patient, their families and in line with relevant policies. A statement from the Sydney Children's Hospital Network focused only on MRI scans. "All children and young people requiring an MRI scan, with or without general anaesthetic, are triaged and prioritised based on clinical need, with the most urgent cases always seen first," a spokesperson said. "Parents are given an estimated timeframe for an MRI scan, however, this timeframe may change based on a child's clinical assessment," they said. "For children who do require general anaesthetic, MRI sessions are held five times a week, with emergency sessions run on weekends, as required. There is no anticipated change to the service." If a parent feels their child's condition has worsened, they can contact their child's treating team so a clinical review can take place, the spokesperson added.
Medscape
09-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
CT Follow-up Strategy Optimises Lung Cancer Screening
Short-interval CT demonstrated spontaneous resolution of consolidation in more than 50% of lung cancer screening participants, while persistent consolidation showed a 29.8% risk for malignancy. This conservative approach rather than immediate PET-CT could save £47,600 per 10,000 screening CTs. METHODOLOGY: Researchers conducted a retrospective study to assess the safety of a short-term follow-up low-dose CT (LDCT) scan for consolidation in a regional lung cancer screening programme in the United Kingdom. Participants aged 55-74 years who were ever smokers underwent lung health checks and risk assessment, and those meeting specific risk thresholds qualified for an LDCT scan. Overall, 10,247 CT studies from 8778 participants (mean age, 68 years) were analysed; consolidation was detected in 113 participants, and they underwent a 6-week repeat LDCT scan. Study outcomes included the proportion of participants with non-resolving consolidation at 6 weeks, the risk for malignancy at the 6-week follow-up period, and the risk for upstaging over a 6-week delay. Cost savings were estimated on the basis of the National Schedule of National Health Service costs. TAKEAWAY: Among 110 participants who attended a follow-up CT scan, consolidation spontaneously resolved or significantly shrank in 57.3% of participants. Of 47 participants with persistent consolidation, 32 underwent PET-CT imaging, with 13 cases subsequently confirmed as malignant. Among those for whom final outcomes were available, the risk for malignancy in those with indeterminate consolidation on the initial scan was 13.5%, increasing to 29.8% in those with non-resolving consolidation (stage IA, n = 8; stage IB, n = 2; stage IIA, n = 3; and stage IE [lymphoma], n = 1). None of the patients with stage IIA malignancy experienced upstaging during the 6-week follow-up period. A cost analysis revealed potential savings of £47,600 per 10,000 screening CTs through the implementation of short-term interval CT vs immediate PET-CT investigation. IN PRACTICE: "In conclusion, short-interval LDCT imaging for focal indeterminate consolidation in LCS [lung cancer screening] is a cost-effective and safe strategy that reduces unnecessary investigation of inflammatory spontaneously resolving abnormalities. This could be a reasonable approach in a national screening programme, thereby reducing costs of investigation whilst ensuring appropriate follow-up of indeterminate consolidation," the authors wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Emily C. Bartlett, Department of Radiology, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, England. It was published online on May 02, 2025, in European Radiology . LIMITATIONS: The evaluation of indeterminate focal consolidation warranting a 6-week CT scan was based on the judgement of the reporting radiologist, which may have varied according to reader expertise and judgement. Long-term outcomes were unknown for some participants who attended the 6-week follow-up scan, limiting the completeness of the data. Additionally, the results did not apply to consolidation identified at 3-month nodule follow-up CT, which was not evaluated in this study, nor to clearly mass-like or lobar consolidation. DISCLOSURES: This study did not receive any specific funding . Several authors reported receiving speaker or consulting fees and having other ties with various sources.
