Precision bone and muscle loss measurements by advanced, multiple projection DEXA (AMPDXA) techniques for spaceflight applications

An advanced, multiple projection, dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (AMPDXA) scanner system is under development. The AMPDXA is designed to make precis ion bone and muscle loss measurements necessary to determine the deleteriou s effects of microgravity on astronauts as well as develop countermeasures to stem their bone and muscle loss. To date, a full size test system has be en developed to verify principles and the results of computer simulations. Results indicate that accurate predictions of bone mechanical properties ca n be determined from as few as three projections, while more projections ar e needed for a complete, three-dimensional reconstruction. (C) 2001 Elsevie r Science Ltd. All rights reserved.