  This work reports the exploitation of diffraction enhanced X-ray imaging
(DEI) for studying cataract in addition to the finding of heavy scattering
centers of light, probably Ca-rich precipitates in cataractous lenses. DEI
selectively probes diffuse-scattering, refraction, and absorption properties of
features in the lenses. Fiber cell compaction areas and dilute distribution of
precipitates are identifiable, as well as highly absorbing aggregations
providing contrast even in the conventional radiography setup. This finding
opens new opportunities for clinical diagnosis, for understaning the causes of
cataract, and in developing medicines for this disease.
