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Lu M, Zhang X, Chai S, Yan X. Improving Specific Absorption Rate Efficiency and Coil Robustness of Self-Decoupled Transmit/Receive Coils by Elevating Feed and Mode Conductors. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:1800. [PMID: 36850397 PMCID: PMC9960379 DOI: 10.3390/s23041800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Self-decoupling technology was recently proposed for radio frequency (RF) coil array designs. Here, we propose a novel geometry to reduce the peak local specific absorption rate (SAR) and improve the robustness of the self-decoupled coil. We first demonstrate that B1 is determined by the arm conductors, while the maximum E-field and local SAR are determined by the feed conductor in a self-decoupled coil. Then, we investigate how the B1, E-field, local SAR, SAR efficiency, and coil robustness change with respect to different lift-off distances for feed and mode conductors. Next, the simulation of self-decoupled coils with optimal lift-off distances on a realistic human body is performed. Finally, self-decoupled coils with optimal lift-off distances are fabricated and tested on the workbench and MRI experiments. The peak 10 g-averaged SAR of the self-decoupled coil on the human body can be reduced by 34% by elevating the feed conductor. Less coil mismatching and less resonant frequency shift with respect to loadings were observed by elevating the mode conductor. Both the simulation and experimental results show that the coils with elevated conductors can preserve the high interelement isolation, B1+ efficiency, and SNR of the original self-decoupled coils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Lu
- College of Nuclear Equipment and Nuclear Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Xiaoyang Zhang
- College of Nuclear Equipment and Nuclear Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Shuyang Chai
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Xinqiang Yan
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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Gokyar S, Voss HU, Taracila V, Robb FJL, Bernico M, Kelley D, Ballon DJ, Winkler SA. A pathway towards a two-dimensional, bore-mounted, volume body coil concept for ultra high-field magnetic resonance imaging. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2022; 35:e4802. [PMID: 35834176 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Lack of a body-sized, bore-mounted, radiofrequency (RF) body coil for ultrahigh field (UHF) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the major drawbacks of UHF, hampering the clinical potential of the technology. Transmit field (B1 ) nonuniformity and low specific absorption rate (SAR) efficiencies in UHF MRI are two challenges to be overcome. To address these problems, and ultimately provide a pathway for the full clinical potential of the modality, we have designed and simulated two-dimensional cylindrical high-pass ladder (2D c-HPL) architectures for clinical bore-size dimensions, and demonstrated a simplified proof of concept with a head-sized prototype at 7 T. A new dispersion relation has been derived and electromagnetic simulations were used to verify coil modes. The coefficient of variation (CV) for brain, cerebellum, heart, and prostate tissues after B1 + shimming in silico is reported and compared with previous works. Three prototypes were designed in simulation: a head-sized, body-sized, and long body-sized coil. The head-sized coil showed a CV of 12.3%, a B1 + efficiency of 1.33 μT/√W, and a SAR efficiency of 2.14 μT/√(W/kg) for brain simulations. The body-sized 2D c-HPL coil was compared with same-sized transverse electromagnetic (TEM) and birdcage coils in silico with a four-port circularly polarized mode excitation. Improved B1 + uniformity (26.9%) and SAR efficiency (16% and 50% better than birdcage and TEM coils, respectively) in spherical phantoms was observed. We achieved a CV of 12.3%, 4.9%, 16.7%, and 2.8% for the brain, cerebellum, heart, and prostate, respectively. Preliminary imaging results for the head-sized coil show good agreement between simulation and experiment. Extending the 1D birdcage coil concept to 2D c-HPLs provides improved B1 + uniformity and SAR efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayim Gokyar
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- USC Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Henning U Voss
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Douglas J Ballon
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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3
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Carluccio G, Collins CM. High-permittivity pads to enhance SNR and transmit efficiency in MRI of the heart at 7T: a simulation study. MAGMA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 35:903-909. [PMID: 35639230 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-022-01018-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High-permittivity pads have shown promising results in enhancing SNR and transmit efficiency when used for MRI of the brain, but fewer studies have been conducted to examine the performance of high-permittivity pads in other parts of the patient. In this work, we evaluate the impact on SNR and transmit efficiency distributions when high-permittivity pads with different thickness are positioned near the chest of the patient in combination with a transmit/receive array coil. METHODS The performance of the pads is evaluated through numerical simulations, and both the SNR distribution and the transmit efficiency maps are compared with those obtained when the pads are not present and the distance between the coils and the patient is minimal. The average improvement of SNR and transmit efficiency in the heart is also evaluated for different values of the permittivity of the pads. RESULTS In the scenario examined, high-permittivity pads can increase SNR and transmit efficiency in the heart volume by as much as 16% and 65%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Carluccio
- New York University School of Medicine, 660 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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Schoen N, Seifert F, Petzold J, Metzger GJ, Speck O, Ittermann B, Schmitter S. The Impact of Respiratory Motion on Electromagnetic Fields and Specific Absorption Rate in Cardiac Imaging at 7T. Magn Reson Med 2022; 88:2645-2661. [PMID: 35906923 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.29402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To present electromagnetic simulation setups for detailed analyses of respiration's impact on B 1 + $$ {B}_1^{+} $$ and E-fields, local specific absorption rate (SAR) and associated safety-limits for 7T cardiac imaging. METHODS Finite-difference time-domain electromagnetic field simulations were performed at five respiratory states using a breathing body model and a 16-element 7T body transceiver RF-coil array. B 1 + $$ {B}_1^{+} $$ and SAR are analyzed for fixed and moving coil configurations. SAR variations are investigated using phase/amplitude shimming considering (i) a local SAR-controlled mode (here SAR calculations consider RF amplitudes and phases) and (ii) a channel-wise power-controlled mode (SAR boundary calculation is independent of the channels' phases, only dependent on the channels' maximum amplitude). RESULTS Respiration-induced variations of both B 1 + $$ {B}_1^{+} $$ amplitude and phase are observed. The flip angle homogeneity depends on the respiratory state used for B 1 + $$ {B}_1^{+} $$ shimming; best results were achieved for shimming on inhale and exhale simultaneously ( | Δ C V | < 35 % $$ \mid \Delta CV\mid <35\% $$ ). The results reflect that respiration impacts position and amplitude of the local SAR maximum. With the local-SAR-control mode, a safety factor of up to 1.4 is needed to accommodate for respiratory variations while the power control mode appears respiration-robust when the coil moves with respiration (SAR peak decrease: 9% exhale→inhale). Instead, a spatially fixed coil setup yields higher SAR variations with respiration. CONCLUSION Respiratory motion does not only affect the B 1 + $$ {B}_1^{+} $$ distribution and hence the image contrast, but also location and magnitude of the peak spatial SAR. Therefore, respiration effects may need to be included in safety analyses of RF coils applied to the human thorax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Schoen
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig and Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Seifert
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig and Berlin, Germany
| | - Johannes Petzold
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig and Berlin, Germany
| | - Gregory J Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Oliver Speck
- Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Ittermann
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig and Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Schmitter
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig and Berlin, Germany.,Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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He X, Schmidt S, Zbýň Š, Haluptzok T, Moeller S, Metzger GJ. Improved TSE imaging at ultrahigh field using nonlocalized efficiency RF shimming and acquisition modes optimized for refocused echoes (AMORE). Magn Reson Med 2022; 88:1702-1719. [PMID: 35692053 PMCID: PMC9339473 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.29318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To develop and evaluate a novel RF shimming optimization strategy tailored to improve the transmit efficiency in turbo spin echo imaging when performing time‐interleaved acquisition of modes (TIAMO) at ultrahigh fields. Theory and Methods A nonlocalized efficiency shimming cost function is proposed and extended to perform TIAMO using acquisition modes optimized for refocused echoes (AMORE). The nonlocalized efficiency shimming was demonstrated in brain and knee imaging at 7 Tesla. Phantom and in vivo torso imaging studies were performed to compare the performance between AMORE and previously proposed TIAMO mode optimizations with and without localized constraints in turbo spin echo and gradient echo acquisitions. Results The proposed nonlocalized efficiency RF shimming produced a circularly polarized‐like field with fewer signal dropouts in the brain and knee. For larger targets, AMORE was used and required a significantly lower transmitter voltage to produce a similar contrast to existing TIAMO mode design approaches for turbo spin echo as well as gradient echo acquisitions. In vivo, AMORE effectively reduced signal dropout in the interior torso while providing more uniform contrast with reduced transmit power. A local constraint further improved performance for a target region while maintaining performance in the larger FOV. Conclusion AMORE based on the presented nonlocalized efficiency shimming cost function demonstrated improved contrast and SNR uniformity as well as increased transmit efficiency for both gradient echo and turbo spin echo acquisitions. Click here for author‐reader discussions
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan He
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Simon Schmidt
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Štefan Zbýň
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Tobey Haluptzok
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Steen Moeller
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Gregory J Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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Tenbergen CJA, Metzger GJ, Scheenen TWJ. Ultra-high-field MR in Prostate cancer: Feasibility and Potential. MAGNETIC RESONANCE MATERIALS IN PHYSICS, BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2022; 35:631-644. [PMID: 35579785 PMCID: PMC9113077 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-022-01013-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Multiparametric MRI of the prostate at clinical magnetic field strengths (1.5/3 Tesla) has emerged as a reliable noninvasive imaging modality for identifying clinically significant cancer, enabling selective sampling of high-risk regions with MRI-targeted biopsies, and enabling minimally invasive focal treatment options. With increased sensitivity and spectral resolution, ultra-high-field (UHF) MRI (≥ 7 Tesla) holds the promise of imaging and spectroscopy of the prostate with unprecedented detail. However, exploiting the advantages of ultra-high magnetic field is challenging due to inhomogeneity of the radiofrequency field and high local specific absorption rates, raising local heating in the body as a safety concern. In this work, we review various coil designs and acquisition strategies to overcome these challenges and demonstrate the potential of UHF MRI in anatomical, functional and metabolic imaging of the prostate and pelvic lymph nodes. When difficulties with power deposition of many refocusing pulses are overcome and the full potential of metabolic spectroscopic imaging is used, UHF MR(S)I may aid in a better understanding of the development and progression of local prostate cancer. Together with large field-of-view and low-flip-angle anatomical 3D imaging, 7 T MRI can be used in its full strength to characterize different tumor stages and help explain the onset and spatial distribution of metastatic spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlijn J A Tenbergen
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Gregory J Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Tom W J Scheenen
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Essen, Germany
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7
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Effects of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury on Resting State Brain Network Connectivity in Older Adults. Brain Imaging Behav 2022; 16:1863-1872. [PMID: 35394617 PMCID: PMC9279274 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-022-00662-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Older age is associated with worsened outcome after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and a higher risk of developing persistent post-traumatic complaints. However, the effects of mTBI sequelae on brain connectivity at older age and their association with post-traumatic complaints remain understudied.We analyzed multi-echo resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 25 older adults with mTBI (mean age: 68 years, SD: 5 years) in the subacute phase (mean injury to scan interval: 38 days, SD: 9 days) and 20 age-matched controls. Severity of complaints (e.g. fatigue, dizziness) was assessed using self-reported questionnaires. Group independent component analysis was used to identify intrinsic connectivity networks (ICNs). The effects of group and severity of complaints on ICNs were assessed using spatial maps intensity (SMI) as a measure of within-network connectivity, and (static) functional network connectivity (FNC) as a measure of between-network connectivity.Patients indicated a higher total severity of complaints than controls. Regarding SMI measures, we observed hyperconnectivity in left-mid temporal gyrus (cognitive-language network) and hypoconnectivity in the right-fusiform gyrus (visual-cerebellar network) that were associated with group. Additionally, we found interaction effects for SMI between severity of complaints and group in the visual(-cerebellar) domain. Regarding FNC measures, no significant effects were found.In older adults, changes in cognitive-language and visual(-cerebellar) networks are related to mTBI. Additionally, group-dependent associations between connectivity within visual(-cerebellar) networks and severity of complaints might indicate post-injury (mal)adaptive mechanisms, which could partly explain post-traumatic complaints (such as dizziness and balance disorders) that are common in older adults during the subacute phase.
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Abstract
Especially after the launch of 7 T, the ultrahigh magnetic field (UHF) imaging community achieved critically important strides in our understanding of the physics of radiofrequency interactions in the human body, which in turn has led to solutions for the challenges posed by such UHFs. As a result, the originally obtained poor image quality has progressed to the high-quality and high-resolution images obtained at 7 T and now at 10.5 T in the human torso. Despite these tremendous advances, work still remains to further improve the image quality and fully capitalize on the potential advantages UHF has to offer.
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He X, Ertürk MA, Grant A, Wu X, Lagore RL, DelaBarre L, Eryaman Y, Adriany G, Auerbach EJ, Van de Moortele PF, Uğurbil K, Metzger GJ. First in-vivo human imaging at 10.5T: Imaging the body at 447 MHz. Magn Reson Med 2019; 84:289-303. [PMID: 31846121 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.28131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the feasibility of imaging the human torso and to evaluate the performance of several radiofrequency (RF) management strategies at 10.5T. METHODS Healthy volunteers were imaged on a 10.5T whole-body scanner in multiple target anatomies, including the prostate, hip, kidney, liver, and heart. Phase-only shimming and spoke pulses were used to demonstrate their performance in managing the B 1 + inhomogeneity present at 447 MHz. Imaging protocols included both qualitative and quantitative acquisitions to show the feasibility of imaging with different contrasts. RESULTS High-quality images were acquired and demonstrated excellent overall contrast and signal-to-noise ratio. The experimental results matched well with predictions and suggested good translational capabilities of the RF management strategies previously developed at 7T. Phase-only shimming provided increased efficiency, but showed pronounced limitations in homogeneity, demonstrating the need for the increased degrees of freedom made possible through single- and multispoke RF pulse design. CONCLUSION The first in-vivo human imaging was successfully performed at 10.5T using previously developed RF management strategies. Further improvement in RF coils, transmit chain, and full integration of parallel transmit functionality are needed to fully realize the benefits of 10.5T.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan He
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - M Arcan Ertürk
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Andrea Grant
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Xiaoping Wu
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Russell L Lagore
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Lance DelaBarre
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Yiğitcan Eryaman
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Gregor Adriany
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Eddie J Auerbach
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Kâmil Uğurbil
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Gregory J Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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10
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Orzada S, Solbach K, Gratz M, Brunheim S, Fiedler TM, Johst S, Bitz AK, Shooshtary S, Abuelhaija A, Voelker MN, Rietsch SHG, Kraff O, Maderwald S, Flöser M, Oehmigen M, Quick HH, Ladd ME. A 32-channel parallel transmit system add-on for 7T MRI. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222452. [PMID: 31513637 PMCID: PMC6742215 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A 32-channel parallel transmit (pTx) add-on for 7 Tesla whole-body imaging is presented. First results are shown for phantom and in-vivo imaging. METHODS The add-on system consists of a large number of hardware components, including modulators, amplifiers, SAR supervision, peripheral devices, a control computer, and an integrated 32-channel transmit/receive body array. B1+ maps in a phantom as well as B1+ maps and structural images in large volunteers are acquired to demonstrate the functionality of the system. EM simulations are used to ensure safe operation. RESULTS Good agreement between simulation and experiment is shown. Phantom and in-vivo acquisitions show a field of view of up to 50 cm in z-direction. Selective excitation with 100 kHz sampling rate is possible. The add-on system does not affect the quality of the original single-channel system. CONCLUSION The presented 32-channel parallel transmit system shows promising performance for ultra-high field whole-body imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Orzada
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Klaus Solbach
- RF & Microwave Technology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Marcel Gratz
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- High-Field and Hybrid MR Imaging, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sascha Brunheim
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- High-Field and Hybrid MR Imaging, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas M. Fiedler
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sören Johst
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Andreas K. Bitz
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Electromagnetic Theory and Applied Mathematics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, FH Aachen – University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany
| | - Samaneh Shooshtary
- RF & Microwave Technology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Ashraf Abuelhaija
- RF & Microwave Technology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian N. Voelker
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- High-Field and Hybrid MR Imaging, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stefan H. G. Rietsch
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- High-Field and Hybrid MR Imaging, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Oliver Kraff
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stefan Maderwald
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martina Flöser
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mark Oehmigen
- High-Field and Hybrid MR Imaging, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Harald H. Quick
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- High-Field and Hybrid MR Imaging, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Mark E. Ladd
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Physics and Astronomy and Faculty of Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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11
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Philips BWJ, van Uden MJ, Rietsch SHG, Orzada S, Scheenen TWJ. A multitransmit external body array combined with a 1 H and 31 P endorectal coil to enable a multiparametric and multimetabolic MRI examination of the prostate at 7T. Med Phys 2019; 46:3893-3905. [PMID: 31274201 PMCID: PMC6852321 DOI: 10.1002/mp.13696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose In vivo1H and 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) provide complementary information on the biology of prostate cancer. In this work we demonstrate the feasibility of performing multiparametric imaging (mpMRI) and 1H and 31P spectroscopic imaging of the prostate using a 31P and 1H endorectal radiofrequency coil (ERC) in combination with a multitransmit body array at 7 Tesla (T). Methods An ERC with a 31P transceiver loop coil and 1H receive (Rx) asymmetric microstrip (31P/1H ERC) was designed, constructed and tested in combination with an external 8‐channel 1H transceiver body array coil (8CH). Electromagnetic field simulations and measurements and in vivo temperature measurements of the ERC were performed for safety validation. In addition, the signal‐to‐noise (SNR) benefit of the 1H microstrip with respect to the 8CH was evaluated. Finally, the feasibility of the setup was tested in one volunteer and three patients with prostate cancer by performing T2‐weighted and diffusion‐weighted imaging in combination with 1H and 31P spectroscopic imaging. Results Electromagnetic field simulations of the 31P loop coil showed no differences in the E‐ and B‐fields of the 31P/1H ERC compared with a previously safety validated ERC without 1H microstrip. The hotspot of the specific absorption rate (SAR) at the feed point of the 31P/1H ERC loop coil was 9.42 W/kg when transmitting on 31P at 1 W. Additional in vivo measurements showed a maximum temperature increase at the SAR hotspot of 0.7°C over 6 min on 31P at 1.9 W transmit (Tx) power, indicating safe maximum power levels. When transmitting with the external 1H body array at 40W for 2:30 min, the temperature increase around the ERC was < 0.3°C. Up to 3.5 cm into the prostate the 1H microstrip of the ERC provided higher SNR than the 8CH. The total coil combination allowed acquisition of an mpMRI protocol and the assessment of 31P and 1H metabolites of the prostate in all test subjects. Conclusion We developed a setup with a 31P transceiver and 1H Rx endorectal coil in combination with an 8‐channel transceiver external body array coil and demonstrated its safety and feasibility for obtaining multiparametric imaging and 1H and 31P MRSI at 7T in patients with prostate cancer within one MR examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart W J Philips
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (766), Radboud university medical center, P.O. Box 9101, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mark J van Uden
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (766), Radboud university medical center, P.O. Box 9101, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan H G Rietsch
- Erwin L Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, UNESCO World Cultural, Heritage Zollverein, Kokereiallee 7, Building C84, D-45141, Essen, Germany.,High Field and Hybrid MR Imaging, University Hospital Essen, D-45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Stephan Orzada
- Erwin L Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, UNESCO World Cultural, Heritage Zollverein, Kokereiallee 7, Building C84, D-45141, Essen, Germany
| | - Tom W J Scheenen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (766), Radboud university medical center, P.O. Box 9101, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Erwin L Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, UNESCO World Cultural, Heritage Zollverein, Kokereiallee 7, Building C84, D-45141, Essen, Germany
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12
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Erturk MA, Li X, Van de Moortele PF, Ugurbil K, Metzger GJ. Evolution of UHF Body Imaging in the Human Torso at 7T: Technology, Applications, and Future Directions. Top Magn Reson Imaging 2019; 28:101-124. [PMID: 31188271 PMCID: PMC6587233 DOI: 10.1097/rmr.0000000000000202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The potential value of ultrahigh field (UHF) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy to biomedical research and in clinical applications drives the development of technologies to overcome its many challenges. The increased difficulties of imaging the human torso compared with the head include its overall size, the dimensions and location of its anatomic targets, the increased prevalence and magnitude of physiologic effects, the limited availability of tailored RF coils, and the necessary transmit chain hardware. Tackling these issues involves addressing notoriously inhomogeneous transmit B1 (B1) fields, limitations in peak B1, larger spatial variations of the static magnetic field B0, and patient safety issues related to implants and local RF power deposition. However, as research institutions and vendors continue to innovate, the potential gains are beginning to be realized. Solutions overcoming the unique challenges associated with imaging the human torso are reviewed as are current studies capitalizing on the benefits of UHF in several anatomies and applications. As the field progresses, strategies associated with the RF system architecture, calibration methods, RF pulse optimization, and power monitoring need to be further integrated into the MRI systems making what are currently complex processes more streamlined. Meanwhile, the UHF MRI community must seize the opportunity to build upon what have been so far proof of principle and feasibility studies and begin to further explore the true impact in both research and the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Arcan Erturk
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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Steensma BR, Luttje M, Voogt IJ, Klomp DW, Luijten PR, van den Berg CA, Raaijmakers AJ. Comparing signal-to-noise ratio for prostate imaging at 7T and 3T. J Magn Reson Imaging 2019; 49:1446-1455. [PMID: 30350388 PMCID: PMC6587835 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.26527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In MRI, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) theoretically increases with B0 field strength. However, because of attenuation of the radiofrequency (RF) fields at 7T, it is not certain if this SNR gain can be realized for prostate imaging. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS To investigate the SNR gain in prostate imaging at 7T as compared with 3T. It is expected that SNR will improve for prostate imaging at 7T compared with 3T. STUDY TYPE Prospective. SUBJECTS Four healthy volunteers and one prostate cancer patient. FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE All subjects were scanned at 3T and at 7T using optimal coil setups for both field strengths. For all volunteers, proton density-weighted images were acquired for SNR analysis and actual flip angle imaging (AFI) B 1 + | maps were acquired for correction of measured SNR values. In the patient, a T2 -weighted (T2 w) image was acquired at 3T and at 7T. ASSESSMENT SNR was calculated in the prostate region for all volunteers. SNR was normalized for flip angle, receiver bandwidth, and voxel volume. SNR was also calculated for different sensitivity encoding (SENSE) acceleration factors. STATISTICAL TESTING SNR values are represented as the arithmetic mean of SNR values in the prostate. Estimated SNR in the T2 w image is calculated as the arithmetic mean of the signal intensity (SI) divided by the standard deviation of the SI in a specified zone. Tumor-to-tissue contrast is calculated as (SItumor +SIzone )/( SItumor -SIzone ). RESULTS An increase in SNR ranging from 1.7-fold to 2.8-fold was measured in the prostate at 7T in comparison to 3T for four volunteers. At 7T, it is possible to achieve a 4-fold SENSE acceleration in the left-right direction with similar SNR to a nonaccelerated 3T image. T2 w imaging was done at 3T and 7T in one patient, where improved tumor-to-tissue contrast was demonstrated at 7T. DATA CONCLUSION SNR improves for prostate imaging at 7T as compared with 3T. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2 Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1446-1455.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart R. Steensma
- University Medical Center UtrechtDepartment of RadiologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Mariska Luttje
- University Medical Center UtrechtDepartment of RadiologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Ingmar J. Voogt
- University Medical Center UtrechtDepartment of RadiologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Dennis W.J. Klomp
- University Medical Center UtrechtDepartment of RadiologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Peter R. Luijten
- University Medical Center UtrechtDepartment of RadiologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Alexander J.E. Raaijmakers
- University Medical Center UtrechtDepartment of RadiologyUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Eindhoven University of TechnologyDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringUtrechtThe Netherlands
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Ladd ME, Bachert P, Meyerspeer M, Moser E, Nagel AM, Norris DG, Schmitter S, Speck O, Straub S, Zaiss M. Pros and cons of ultra-high-field MRI/MRS for human application. PROGRESS IN NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY 2018; 109:1-50. [PMID: 30527132 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnmrs.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopic techniques are widely used in humans both for clinical diagnostic applications and in basic research areas such as cognitive neuroimaging. In recent years, new human MR systems have become available operating at static magnetic fields of 7 T or higher (≥300 MHz proton frequency). Imaging human-sized objects at such high frequencies presents several challenges including non-uniform radiofrequency fields, enhanced susceptibility artifacts, and higher radiofrequency energy deposition in the tissue. On the other side of the scale are gains in signal-to-noise or contrast-to-noise ratio that allow finer structures to be visualized and smaller physiological effects to be detected. This review presents an overview of some of the latest methodological developments in human ultra-high field MRI/MRS as well as associated clinical and scientific applications. Emphasis is given to techniques that particularly benefit from the changing physical characteristics at high magnetic fields, including susceptibility-weighted imaging and phase-contrast techniques, imaging with X-nuclei, MR spectroscopy, CEST imaging, as well as functional MRI. In addition, more general methodological developments such as parallel transmission and motion correction will be discussed that are required to leverage the full potential of higher magnetic fields, and an overview of relevant physiological considerations of human high magnetic field exposure is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Ladd
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Physics and Astronomy, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
| | - Peter Bachert
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Physics and Astronomy, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Martin Meyerspeer
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; MR Center of Excellence, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Ewald Moser
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; MR Center of Excellence, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Armin M Nagel
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Institute of Radiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - David G Norris
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Erwin L. Hahn Institute for MRI, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
| | - Sebastian Schmitter
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig and Berlin, Germany.
| | - Oliver Speck
- Department of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioural Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany; Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Sina Straub
- Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Moritz Zaiss
- High-Field Magnetic Resonance Center, Max-Planck-Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany.
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Steensma BR, Voogt I, van der Werf AJ, van den Berg CA, Luijten PR, Klomp DW, Raaijmakers AJ. Design of a forward view antenna for prostate imaging at 7 T. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2018; 31:e3993. [PMID: 30022543 PMCID: PMC6175442 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.3993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To design a forward view antenna for prostate imaging at 7 T, which is placed between the legs of the subject in addition to a dipole array. MATERIALS AND METHODS The forward view antenna is realized by placing a cross-dipole antenna at the end of a small rectangular waveguide. Quadrature drive of the cross-dipole can excite a circularly polarized wave propagating along the axial direction to and from the prostate region. Functioning of the forward view antenna is validated by comparing measurements and simulations. Antenna performance is evaluated by numerical simulations and measurements at 7 T. RESULTS Simulations of B1+ on a phantom are in good correspondence with measurements. Simulations on a human model indicate that the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), specific absorption rate (SAR) efficiency and SAR increase when adding the forward view antenna to a previously published dipole array. The SNR increases by up to 18% when adding the forward view antenna as a receive antenna to an eight-channel dipole array in vivo. CONCLUSIONS A design for a forward view antenna is presented and evaluated. SNR improvements up to 18% are demonstrated when adding the forward view antenna to a dipole array.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ingmar Voogt
- University Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtthe Netherlands
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Uğurbil K. Imaging at ultrahigh magnetic fields: History, challenges, and solutions. Neuroimage 2018; 168:7-32. [PMID: 28698108 PMCID: PMC5758441 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2017.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Following early efforts in applying nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to study biological processes in intact systems, and particularly since the introduction of 4 T human scanners circa 1990, rapid progress was made in imaging and spectroscopy studies of humans at 4 T and animal models at 9.4 T, leading to the introduction of 7 T and higher magnetic fields for human investigation at about the turn of the century. Work conducted on these platforms has provided numerous technological solutions to challenges posed at these ultrahigh fields, and demonstrated the existence of significant advantages in signal-to-noise ratio and biological information content. Primary difference from lower fields is the deviation from the near field regime at the radiofrequencies (RF) corresponding to hydrogen resonance conditions. At such ultrahigh fields, the RF is characterized by attenuated traveling waves in the human body, which leads to image non-uniformities for a given sample-coil configuration because of destructive and constructive interferences. These non-uniformities were initially considered detrimental to progress of imaging at high field strengths. However, they are advantageous for parallel imaging in signal reception and transmission, two critical technologies that account, to a large extend, for the success of ultrahigh fields. With these technologies and improvements in instrumentation and imaging methods, today ultrahigh fields have provided unprecedented gains in imaging of brain function and anatomy, and started to make inroads into investigation of the human torso and extremities. As extensive as they are, these gains still constitute a prelude to what is to come given the increasingly larger effort committed to ultrahigh field research and development of ever better instrumentation and techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Uğurbil
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Li X, Auerbach EJ, Van de Moortele PF, Ugurbil K, Metzger GJ. Quantitative single breath-hold renal arterial spin labeling imaging at 7T. Magn Reson Med 2018; 79:815-825. [PMID: 28488274 PMCID: PMC5680158 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.26742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the feasibility of quantitative single breath-hold renal arterial spin labeling (ASL) imaging at 7T. METHODS A single-shot fast spin echo FAIR (flow-sensitive alternating inversion recovery) method was used to perform two studies. First, a multi-delay perfusion study was performed to estimate the spin labeling temporal bolus width achievable with a local transceiver array coil at 7T. Second, with a conservatively defined bolus width, a quantitative perfusion study was performed using the single subtraction approach. To address issues of B1+ inhomogeneity/efficiency and excessive short-term specific absorption rates, various strategies were used, such as dynamic radiofrequency shimming and optimization. RESULTS A conservative temporal bolus width of 600 ms determined from the multi-delay study was applied for single-subtraction imaging to measure the renal blood flow in the cortex and medulla: 303 ± 31.8 and 91.3 ± 15.2 (mL/100 g/min), respectively. The estimated spatial and temporal signal-to-noise ratios of renal perfusion measurements were 3.8 ± 0.7 and 2.4 ± 0.6 for the cortex, and 2.2 ± 0.6 and 1.4 ± 0.2 for the medulla. CONCLUSION With proper management of field strength specific challenges, quantitative renal ASL imaging can be achieved at 7T within a single breath-hold. Magn Reson Med 79:815-825, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufeng Li
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States
| | - Edward J. Auerbach
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States
| | | | - Kamil Ugurbil
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States
| | - Gregory J. Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical feasibility of prostate multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) at a magnetic field strength of 7 T. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this prospective institutional review board-approved study, 14 patients with biopsy-proven prostate cancer (mean age, 65.2 years; median prostate-specific antigen [PSA], 6.2 ng/mL), all providing signed informed consent, underwent 7 T mpMRI with an external 8-channel body-array transmit coil and an endorectal receive coil between September 2013 and October 2014. Image and spectral quality of high-resolution T2-weighted (T2W) imaging (0.3 × 0.3 × 2 mm), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI; 1.4 × 1.4 × 2 mm or 1.75 × 1.75 × 2 mm), and (H) MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI; real voxel size, 0.6 mm in 7:16 minutes) were rated on a 5-point scale by 2 radiologists and a spectroscopist. RESULTS Prostate mpMRI including at least 2 of 3 MR techniques was obtained at 7 T in 13 patients in 65 ± 12 minutes. Overall T2W and DWI image quality at 7 T was scored as fair (38% and 17%, respectively) to good or very good (55% and 83%, respectively). The main artifacts for T2W imaging were motion and areas of low signal-to-noise ratio, the latter possibly caused by radiofrequency field inhomogeneities. For DWI, the primary artifact was ghosting of the rectal wall in the readout direction. Magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging quality was rated fair or good in 56% of the acquisitions and was mainly limited by lipid contamination. CONCLUSIONS Multiparametric MRI of the prostate at 7 T is feasible at unprecedented spatial resolutions for T2W imaging and DWI and within clinically acceptable acquisition times for high-resolution MRSI, using the combination of an external 8-channel body-array transmit coil and an endorectal receive coil. The higher spatial resolutions can yield improved delineation of prostate anatomy, but the robustness of the techniques needs to be improved before clinical adoption of 7 T mpMRI.
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van Kalleveen IML, Hoogendam JP, Raaijmakers AJE, Visser F, Arteaga de Castro CS, Verheijen RHM, Luijten PR, Zweemer RP, Veldhuis WB, Klomp DWJ. Boosting the SNR by adding a receive-only endorectal monopole to an external antenna array for high-resolution, T 2 -weighted imaging of early-stage cervical cancer with 7-T MRI. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2017; 30:e3750. [PMID: 28574604 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.3750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) gain in early-stage cervical cancer at ultrahigh-field MRI (e.g. 7 T) using a combination of multiple external antennas and a single endorectal antenna. In particular, we used an endorectal monopole antenna to increase the SNR in cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This should allow high-resolution, T2 -weighted imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for metabolic staging, which could facilitate the local tumor status assessment. In a prospective feasibility study, five healthy female volunteers and six patients with histologically proven stage IB1-IIB cervical cancer were scanned at 7 T. We used seven external fractionated dipole antennas for transmit-receive (transceive) and an endorectally placed monopole antenna for reception only. A region of interest, containing both normal cervix and tumor tissue, was selected for the SNR measurement. Separated signal and noise measurements were obtained in the region of the cervix for each element and in the near field of the monopole antenna (radius < 30 mm) to calculate the SNR gain of the endorectal antenna in each patient. We obtained high-resolution, T2 -weighted images with a voxel size of 0.7 × 0.8 × 3.0 mm3 . In four cases with optimal placement of the endorectal antenna (verified on the T2 -weighted images), a mean gain of 2.2 in SNR was obtained at the overall cervix and tumor tissue area. Within a radius of 30 mm from the monopole antenna, a mean SNR gain of 3.7 was achieved in the four optimal cases. Overlap between the two different regions of the SNR calculations was around 24%. We have demonstrated that the use of an endorectal monopole antenna substantially increases the SNR of 7-T MRI at the cervical anatomy. Combined with the intrinsically high SNR of ultrahigh-field MRI, this gain may be employed to obtain metabolic information using MRS and to enhance spatial resolutions to assess tumor invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J P Hoogendam
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, UMC Utrecht Cancer Centre, the Netherlands
| | | | - F Visser
- Department of Radiology, UMC Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - R H M Verheijen
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, UMC Utrecht Cancer Centre, the Netherlands
| | - P R Luijten
- Department of Radiology, UMC Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - R P Zweemer
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, UMC Utrecht Cancer Centre, the Netherlands
| | - W B Veldhuis
- Department of Radiology, UMC Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - D W J Klomp
- Department of Radiology, UMC Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Tayari N, Heerschap A, Scheenen TW, Kobus T. In vivo MR spectroscopic imaging of the prostate, from application to interpretation. Anal Biochem 2017; 529:158-170. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Padormo F, Beqiri A, Hajnal JV, Malik SJ. Parallel transmission for ultrahigh-field imaging. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2016; 29:1145-61. [PMID: 25989904 PMCID: PMC4995736 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.3313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2014] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 03/29/2015] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The development of MRI systems operating at or above 7 T has provided researchers with a new window into the human body, yielding improved imaging speed, resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. In order to fully realise the potential of ultrahigh-field MRI, a range of technical hurdles must be overcome. The non-uniformity of the transmit field is one of such issues, as it leads to non-uniform images with spatially varying contrast. Parallel transmission (i.e. the use of multiple independent transmission channels) provides previously unavailable degrees of freedom that allow full spatial and temporal control of the radiofrequency (RF) fields. This review discusses the many ways in which these degrees of freedom can be used, ranging from making more uniform transmit fields to the design of subject-tailored RF pulses for both uniform excitation and spatial selection, and also the control of the specific absorption rate. © 2015 The Authors. NMR in Biomedicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Padormo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, King's Health Partners, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - Arian Beqiri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, King's Health Partners, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - Joseph V Hajnal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, King's Health Partners, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, King's Health Partners, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - Shaihan J Malik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, King's Health Partners, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
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Ertürk MA, El-Sharkawy AMM, Bottomley PA. Monitoring local heating around an interventional MRI antenna with RF radiometry. Med Phys 2016; 42:1411-23. [PMID: 25735295 DOI: 10.1118/1.4907960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Radiofrequency (RF) radiometry uses thermal noise detected by an antenna to measure the temperature of objects independent of medical imaging technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Here, an active interventional MRI antenna can be deployed as a RF radiometer to measure local heating, as a possible new method of monitoring device safety and thermal therapy. METHODS A 128 MHz radiometer receiver was fabricated to measure the RF noise voltage from an interventional 3 T MRI loopless antenna and calibrated for temperature in a uniformly heated bioanalogous gel phantom. Local heating (ΔT) was induced using the antenna for RF transmission and measured by RF radiometry, fiber-optic thermal sensors, and MRI thermometry. The spatial thermal sensitivity of the antenna radiometer was numerically computed using a method-of-moment electric field analyses. The gel's thermal conductivity was measured by MRI thermometry, and the localized time-dependent ΔT distribution computed from the bioheat transfer equation and compared with radiometry measurements. A "H-factor" relating the 1 g-averaged ΔT to the radiometric temperature was introduced to estimate peak temperature rise in the antenna's sensitive region. RESULTS The loopless antenna radiometer linearly tracked temperature inside a thermally equilibrated phantom up to 73 °C to within ±0.3 °C at a 2 Hz sample rate. Computed and MRI thermometric measures of peak ΔT agreed within 13%. The peak 1 g-average temperature was H = 1.36 ± 0.02 times higher than the radiometric temperature for any media with a thermal conductivity of 0.15-0.50 (W/m)/K, indicating that the radiometer can measure peak 1 g-averaged ΔT in physiologically relevant tissue within ±0.4 °C. CONCLUSIONS Active internal MRI detectors can serve as RF radiometers at the MRI frequency to provide accurate independent measures of local and peak temperature without the artifacts that can accompany MRI thermometry or the extra space needed to accommodate alternative thermal transducers. A RF radiometer could be integrated in a MRI scanner to permit "self-monitoring" for assuring device safety and/or monitoring delivery of thermal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Arcan Ertürk
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287 and Division of MR Research, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
| | - AbdEl-Monem M El-Sharkawy
- Division of MR Research, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
| | - Paul A Bottomley
- Division of MR Research, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287
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de Boer A, Hoogduin JM, Blankestijn PJ, Li X, Luijten PR, Metzger GJ, Raaijmakers AJE, Umutlu L, Visser F, Leiner T. 7 T renal MRI: challenges and promises. MAGNETIC RESONANCE MATERIALS IN PHYSICS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2016; 29:417-33. [PMID: 27008461 PMCID: PMC4891364 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-016-0538-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The progression to 7 Tesla (7 T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) yields promises of substantial increase in signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio. This increase can be traded off to increase image spatial resolution or to decrease acquisition time. However, renal 7 T MRI remains challenging due to inhomogeneity of the radiofrequency field and due to specific absorption rate (SAR) constraints. A number of studies has been published in the field of renal 7 T imaging. While the focus initially was on anatomic imaging and renal MR angiography, later studies have explored renal functional imaging. Although anatomic imaging remains somewhat limited by inhomogeneous excitation and SAR constraints, functional imaging results are promising. The increased SNR at 7 T has been particularly advantageous for blood oxygen level-dependent and arterial spin labelling MRI, as well as sodium MR imaging, thanks to changes in field-strength-dependent magnetic properties. Here, we provide an overview of the currently available literature on renal 7 T MRI. In addition, we provide a brief overview of challenges and opportunities in renal 7 T MR imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneloes de Boer
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Post box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes M Hoogduin
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Post box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Peter J Blankestijn
- Department of Nephrology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Xiufeng Li
- Department of Radiology, Centre for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Peter R Luijten
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Post box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gregory J Metzger
- Department of Radiology, Centre for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Alexander J E Raaijmakers
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Post box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lale Umutlu
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Fredy Visser
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Post box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Philips Healthcare, Best, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Leiner
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Post box 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Ertürk MA, Raaijmakers AJE, Adriany G, Uğurbil K, Metzger GJ. A 16-channel combined loop-dipole transceiver array for 7 Tesla body MRI. Magn Reson Med 2016; 77:884-894. [PMID: 26887533 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.26153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a 16-channel transceive body imaging array at 7.0 T with improved transmit, receive, and specific absorption rate (SAR) performance by combining both loop and dipole elements and using their respective and complementary near and far field characteristics. METHODS A 16-channel radiofrequency (RF) coil array consisting of eight loop-dipole blocks (16LD) was designed and constructed. Transmit and receive performance was quantitatively investigated in phantom and human model simulations, and experiments on five healthy volunteers inside the prostate. Comparisons were made with 16-channel microstrip line (16ML) and 10-channel fractionated dipole antenna (10DA) arrays. The 16LD was used to acquire anatomic and functional images of the prostate, kidneys, and heart. RESULTS The 16LD provided > 14% improvements in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), peak B1+, B1+ transmit, and SAR efficiencies over the 16ML and 10DA in simulations inside the prostate. Experimentally, the 16LD had > 20% higher SNR and B1+ transmit efficiency compared with other arrays, and achieved up to 51.8% higher peak B1+ compared with 10DA. CONCLUSION Combining loop and dipole elements provided a body imaging array with high channel count and density while limiting inter-element coupling. The 16LD improved both near and far-field performance compared with existing 7.0T body arrays and provided high-quality MRI of the prostate kidneys and heart. Magn Reson Med 77:884-894, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Arcan Ertürk
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Gregor Adriany
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kâmil Uğurbil
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gregory J Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Ertürk MA, Tian J, Van de Moortele PF, Adriany G, Metzger GJ. Development and evaluation of a multichannel endorectal RF coil for prostate MRI at 7T in combination with an external surface array. J Magn Reson Imaging 2015; 43:1279-87. [PMID: 26584144 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.25099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop and evaluate a sterilizable multichannel endorectal coil (ERC) for use in combination with an external surface array (ESA) for high-resolution anatomical and functional studies of the prostate at 7T. MATERIALS AND METHODS A two-loop ERC (ERC-2L) and a microstrip-loop ERC (ERC-ML) were compared at 7T in terms of transmit and receive performance. The best-performing ERC was evaluated alone and in combination with the ESA through 1) simulations on both phantom and an anatomically correct numerical human model to assess B1+ transmit and specific absorption rate (SAR) efficiencies, and 2) phantom experiments to calculate B1+ transmit efficiency and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Phantom studies were also performed to look at heating when using the ERC as a transmitter and for comparing the new coil against a single-channel balloon-type ERC (ERC-b). High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) acquisitions were performed on a single healthy subject using the two-channel ERC combined with the ESA. RESULTS Compared to the ERC-ML, the ERC-2L demonstrated 20% higher SAR efficiency and higher SNR 3 cm from the coil. The presence of a tuned and detuned ERC-2L did not alter the peak local SAR of the ESA alone; however, the detuned ERC-2L had 45% less peak local SAR around the rectum compared to the tuned ERC-2L. The receive-only version of the ERC-2L improved the SNR 4.7-fold and 1.3-fold compared to the ESA and ERC-b, respectively. In combination with the ESA, the ERC-2L supported in-plane voxel-size of 0.36 × 0.36 mm(2) in T2 -weighted anatomic imaging. CONCLUSION The reusable ERC-2L combined with an ESA offers a high SNR imaging platform for translational studies of the prostate at 7T. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1279-1287.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Arcan Ertürk
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jinfeng Tian
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Gregor Adriany
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gregory J Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Lagemaat MW, Breukels V, Vos EK, Kerr AB, van Uden MJ, Orzada S, Bitz AK, Maas MC, Scheenen TWJ. (1)H MR spectroscopic imaging of the prostate at 7T using spectral-spatial pulses. Magn Reson Med 2015; 75:933-45. [PMID: 25943445 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the feasibility of prostate (1)H MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) using low-power spectral-spatial (SPSP) pulses at 7T, exploiting accurate spectral selection and spatial selectivity simultaneously. METHODS A double spin-echo sequence was equipped with SPSP refocusing pulses with a spectral selectivity of 1 ppm. Three-dimensional prostate (1)H-MRSI at 7T was performed with the SPSP-MRSI sequence using an 8-channel transmit array coil and an endorectal receive coil in three patients with prostate cancer and in one healthy subject. No additional water or lipid suppression pulses were used. RESULTS Prostate (1)H-MRSI could be obtained well within specific absorption rate (SAR) limits in a clinically feasible time (10 min). Next to the common citrate signals, the prostate spectra exhibited high spermine signals concealing creatine and sometimes also choline. Residual lipid signals were observed at the edges of the prostate because of limitations in spectral and spatial selectivity. CONCLUSION It is possible to perform prostate (1)H-MRSI at 7T with a SPSP-MRSI sequence while using separate transmit and receive coils. This low-SAR MRSI concept provides the opportunity to increase spatial resolution of MRSI within reasonable scan times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam W Lagemaat
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Vincent Breukels
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Eline K Vos
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Adam B Kerr
- Magnetic Resonance Systems Research Lab, Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mark J van Uden
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Stephan Orzada
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Andreas K Bitz
- Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Medical Physics in Radiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marnix C Maas
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Tom W J Scheenen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Li X, Bolan PJ, Ugurbil K, Metzger GJ. Measuring renal tissue relaxation times at 7 T. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2015; 28:63-9. [PMID: 25346367 PMCID: PMC4335643 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.3195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2013] [Revised: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
As developments in RF coils and RF management strategies make performing ultra-high-field renal imaging feasible, understanding the relaxation times of the tissue becomes increasingly important for tissue characterization, sequence optimization and quantitative functional renal imaging, such as renal perfusion imaging using arterial spin labeling. By using a magnetization-prepared single-breath-hold fast spin echo imaging method, human renal T1 and T2 imaging studies were successfully performed at 7 T with 11 healthy volunteers (eight males, 45 ± 17 years, and three females, 29 ± 7 years, mean ± standard deviation, S.D.) while addressing challenges of B1 (+) inhomogeneity and short-term specific absorption rate limits. At 7 T, measured renal T1 values for the renal cortex and medulla (mean ± S.D.) from five healthy volunteers who participated in both 3 T and two-session 7 T studies were 1661 ± 68 ms and 2094 ± 67 ms, and T2 values were 108 ± 7 ms and 126 ± 6 ms. For comparison, similar measurements were made at 3 T, where renal cortex and medulla T1 values of 1261 ± 86 ms and 1676 ± 94 ms and T2 values of 121 ± 5 ms and 138 ± 7 ms were obtained. Measurements at 3 T and 7 T were significantly different for both T1 and T2 values in both renal tissues. Reproducibility studies at 7 T demonstrated that T1 and T2 estimations were robust, with group mean percentage differences of less than 4%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufeng Li
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Patrick J. Bolan
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Kamil Ugurbil
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Gregory J. Metzger
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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Zhao Y, Zhao T, Raval SB, Krishnamurthy N, Zheng H, Harris CT, Handler WB, Chronik BA, Ibrahim TS. Dual optimization method of radiofrequency and quasistatic field simulations for reduction of eddy currents generated on 7T radiofrequency coil shielding. Magn Reson Med 2014; 74:1461-9. [PMID: 25367703 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To optimize the design of radiofrequency (RF) shielding of transmit coils at 7T and reduce eddy currents generated on the RF shielding when imaging with rapid gradient waveforms. METHODS One set of a four-element, 2 × 2 Tic-Tac-Toe head coil structure was selected and constructed to study eddy currents on the RF coil shielding. The generated eddy currents were quantitatively studied in the time and frequency domains. The RF characteristics were studied using the finite difference time domain method. Five different kinds of RF shielding were tested on a 7T MRI scanner with phantoms and in vivo human subjects. RESULTS The eddy current simulation method was verified by the measurement results. Eddy currents induced by solid/intact and simple-structured slotted RF shielding significantly distorted the gradient fields. Echo-planar images, B1+ maps, and S matrix measurements verified that the proposed slot pattern suppressed the eddy currents while maintaining the RF characteristics of the transmit coil. CONCLUSION The presented dual-optimization method could be used to design RF shielding and reduce the gradient field-induced eddy currents while maintaining the RF characteristics of the transmit coil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujuan Zhao
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tiejun Zhao
- Siemens Medical Solutions, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shailesh B Raval
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Hai Zheng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chad T Harris
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - William B Handler
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Blaine A Chronik
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Tamer S Ibrahim
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Liu J, Zhang X, Schmitter S, Van de Moortele PF, He B. Gradient-based electrical properties tomography (gEPT): A robust method for mapping electrical properties of biological tissues in vivo using magnetic resonance imaging. Magn Reson Med 2014; 74:634-46. [PMID: 25213371 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop high-resolution electrical properties tomography (EPT) methods and investigate a gradient-based EPT (gEPT) approach that aims to reconstruct the electrical properties (EP), including conductivity and permittivity, of an imaged sample from experimentally measured B1 maps with improved boundary reconstruction and robustness against measurement noise. THEORY AND METHODS Using a multichannel transmit/receive stripline head coil with acquired B1 maps for each coil element, and by assuming negligible Bz component compared to transverse B1 components, a theory describing the relationship between B1 field, EP value, and their spatial gradient has been proposed. The final EP images were obtained through spatial integration over the reconstructed EP gradient. Numerical simulation, physical phantom, and in vivo human experiments at 7 T have been conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. RESULTS Reconstruction results were compared with target EP values in both simulations and phantom experiments. Human experimental results were compared with EP values in literature. Satisfactory agreement was observed with improved boundary reconstruction. Importantly, the proposed gEPT method proved to be more robust against noise when compared to previously described nongradient-based EPT approaches. CONCLUSION The proposed gEPT approach holds promises to improve EP mapping quality by recovering the boundary information and enhancing robustness against noise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaen Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Xiaotong Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sebastian Schmitter
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Bin He
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Institute for Engineering in Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Vos EK, Lagemaat MW, Barentsz JO, Fütterer JJ, Zámecnik P, Roozen H, Orzada S, Bitz AK, Maas MC, Scheenen TWJ. Image quality and cancer visibility of T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate at 7 Tesla. Eur Radiol 2014; 24:1950-8. [PMID: 24865699 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-014-3234-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the image quality of T2-weighted (T2w) magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate and the visibility of prostate cancer at 7 Tesla (T). MATERIALS & METHODS Seventeen prostate cancer patients underwent T2w imaging at 7T with only an external transmit/receive array coil. Three radiologists independently scored images for image quality, visibility of anatomical structures, and presence of artefacts. Krippendorff's alpha and weighted kappa statistics were used to assess inter-observer agreement. Visibility of prostate cancer lesions was assessed by directly linking the T2w images to the confirmed location of prostate cancer on histopathology. RESULTS T2w imaging at 7T was achievable with 'satisfactory' (3/5) to 'good' (4/5) quality. Visibility of anatomical structures was predominantly scored as 'satisfactory' (3/5) and 'good' (4/5). If artefacts were present, they were mostly motion artefacts and, to a lesser extent, aliasing artefacts and noise. Krippendorff's analysis revealed an α = 0.44 between three readers for the overall image quality scores. Clinically significant cancer lesions in both peripheral zone and transition zone were visible at 7T. CONCLUSION T2w imaging with satisfactory to good quality can be routinely acquired, and cancer lesions were visible in patients with prostate cancer at 7T using only an external transmit/receive body array coil. KEY POINTS • Satisfactory to good T2-weighted image quality of the prostate is achievable at 7T. • Periprostatic lipids appear hypo-intense compared to healthy peripheral zone tissue at 7T. • Prostate cancer is visible on T2-weighted MRI at 7T.
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Affiliation(s)
- E K Vos
- Department of Radiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, P.O. box 9101, Geert Grooteplein 10, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands,
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A modified multi-echo AFI for simultaneous B1+ magnitude and phase mapping. Magn Reson Imaging 2014; 32:314-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2013.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Revised: 09/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Abstract
Since the introduction of 4 T human systems in three academic laboratories circa 1990, rapid progress in imaging and spectroscopy studies in humans at 4 T and animal model systems at 9.4 T have led to the introduction of 7 T and higher magnetic fields for human investigation at about the turn of the century. Work conducted on these platforms has demonstrated the existence of significant advantages in SNR and biological information content at these ultrahigh fields, as well as the presence of numerous challenges. Primary difference from lower fields is the deviation from the near field regime; at the frequencies corresponding to hydrogen resonance conditions at ultrahigh fields, the RF is characterized by attenuated traveling waves in the human body, which leads to image nonuniformities for a given sample-coil configuration because of interferences. These nonuniformities were considered detrimental to the progress of imaging at high field strengths. However, they are advantageous for parallel imaging for signal reception and parallel transmission, two critical technologies that account, to a large extend, for the success of ultrahigh fields. With these technologies, and improvements in instrumentation and imaging methods, ultrahigh fields have provided unprecedented gains in imaging of brain function and anatomy, and started to make inroads into investigation of the human torso and extremities. As extensive as they are, these gains still constitute a prelude to what is to come given the increasingly larger effort committed to ultrahigh field research and development of ever better instrumentation and techniques.
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34
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Lagemaat MW, Scheenen TWJ. Role of high-field MR in studies of localized prostate cancer. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2014; 27:67-79. [PMID: 23703839 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.2967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Revised: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging is attracting increasing attention from the uroradiological community as a modality to guide the management of prostate cancer. With the high incidence of prostate cancer it might come as a surprise that for a very long time (and in many places even at present) treatment decisions were being made without the use of detailed anatomical and functional imaging of the prostate gland at hand. Although T2 -weighted MRI can provide great anatomical detail, by itself it is not specific enough to discriminate cancer from benign disease, so other functional MRI techniques have been explored to aid in detection, localization, staging and risk assessment of prostate cancer. With the current evolution of clinical MR systems from 1.5 to 3 T it is important to understand the advantages and the challenges of the higher magnetic field strength for the different functional MR techniques most used in the prostate: T2 -weighted MRI, diffusion-weighted MRI, MR spectroscopic imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging. In addition to this, the use of the endorectal coil at different field strengths is discussed in this review, together with an outlook of the possibilities of ultra-high-field MR for the prostate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam W Lagemaat
- Department of Radiology (766), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, The Netherlands
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Luttje MP, Italiaander MGM, Arteaga de Castro CS, van der Kemp WJM, Luijten PR, van Vulpen M, van der Heide UA, Klomp DWJ. (31) P MR spectroscopic imaging combined with (1) H MR spectroscopic imaging in the human prostate using a double tuned endorectal coil at 7T. Magn Reson Med 2013; 72:1516-21. [PMID: 24357271 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Revised: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Improved diagnostic sensitivity could be obtained in cancer detection and staging when individual compounds of the choline pool can be detected. Therefore, a novel coil design is proposed, providing the ability to acquire both (1) H and (31) P magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) in patients with prostate cancer. METHODS A two-element (1) H/(31) P endorectal coil was designed by adjusting a commercially available 3T endorectal coil. The two-element coil setup was interfaced as a transceiver to a whole body 7T MR scanner. Simulations and phantom measurements were performed to compare the efficiency of the coil. (1) H MRSI and (31) P MRSI were acquired in vivo in prostate cancer patients. RESULTS The efficiency of the (1) H/(31) P coil is comparable to the dual channel (1) H coil previously published. Individually distinguishable phospholipid metabolites in the in vivo (31) P spectra were: phosphoethanolamine, phosphocholine, phosphate, glycerophosphoethanolamine, glycerophosphocholine, phosphocreatine, and adenosine triposphate. (1) H MRSI was performed within the same scan session, visualizing choline, polyamines, creatine, and citrate. CONCLUSION (1) H MRSI and (31) P MRSI can be acquired in the human prostate at 7T within the same scan session using an endorectal coil matched and tuned for (1) H (quadrature) and (31) P (linear) without the need of cable traps and with negligible efficiency losses in the (1) H and (31) P channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariska P Luttje
- Imaging Division, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Rosenkrantz AB, Zhang B, Ben-Eliezer N, Le Nobin J, Melamed J, Deng FM, Taneja SS, Wiggins GC. T2-weighted prostate MRI at 7 tesla using a simplified external transmit-receive coil array: Correlation with radical prostatectomy findings in two prostate cancer patients. J Magn Reson Imaging 2013; 41:226-32. [DOI: 10.1002/jmri.24511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bei Zhang
- Department of Radiology; NYU Langone Medical Center; New York New York USA
| | - Noam Ben-Eliezer
- Department of Radiology; NYU Langone Medical Center; New York New York USA
| | - Julien Le Nobin
- Division of Urologic Oncology Department of Urology; NYU Langone Medical Center; New York New York USA
| | - Jonathan Melamed
- Department of Pathology; NYU Langone Medical Center; New York New York USA
| | - Fang-Ming Deng
- Department of Pathology; NYU Langone Medical Center; New York New York USA
| | - Samir S. Taneja
- Division of Urologic Oncology Department of Urology; NYU Langone Medical Center; New York New York USA
| | - Graham C. Wiggins
- Department of Radiology; NYU Langone Medical Center; New York New York USA
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Rodgers CT, Piechnik SK, DelaBarre LJ, Van de Moortele PF, Snyder CJ, Neubauer S, Robson MD, Vaughan JT. Inversion recovery at 7 T in the human myocardium: measurement of T(1), inversion efficiency and B(1) (+). Magn Reson Med 2013; 70:1038-46. [PMID: 23197329 PMCID: PMC4134266 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.24548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2012] [Revised: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
At clinical MRI field strengths (1.5 and 3 T), quantitative maps of the longitudinal relaxation time T1 of the myocardium reveal diseased tissue without requiring contrast agents. Cardiac T1 maps can be measured by Look-Locker inversion recovery sequences such as ShMOLLI at 1.5 and 3 T. Cardiovascular MRI at a field strength of 7 T has recently become feasible, but doubts have remained as to whether magnetization inversion is possible in the heart due to subject heating and technical limitations. This work extends the repertoire of 7 T cardiovascular MRI by implementing an adiabatic inversion pulse optimized for use in the heart at 7 T. A "ShMOLLI+IE" adaptation of the ShMOLLI pulse sequence has been introduced together with new postprocessing that accounts for the possibility of incomplete magnetization inversion. These methods were validated in phantoms and then used in a study of six healthy volunteers to determine the degree of magnetization inversion and the T1 of normal myocardium at 7 T within a 22-heartbeat breathhold. Using a scanner with 16 × 1 kW radiofrequency outputs, inversion efficiencies ranging from -0.79 to -0.83 (intrasegment means; perfect 180° would give -1) were attainable across the myocardium. The myocardial T1 was 1925 ± 48 ms (mean ± standard deviation).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T. Rodgers
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research (OCMR), University of Oxford, Level 0, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Stefan K. Piechnik
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research (OCMR), University of Oxford, Level 0, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Lance J. DelaBarre
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, 2021 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | | | - Carl J. Snyder
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, 2021 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Stefan Neubauer
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research (OCMR), University of Oxford, Level 0, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Matthew D. Robson
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research (OCMR), University of Oxford, Level 0, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - J. Thomas Vaughan
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, 2021 Sixth Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Erturk MA, El-Sharkawy AMM, Moore J, Bottomley PA. 7 Tesla MRI with a transmit/receive loopless antenna and B1-insensitive selective excitation. Magn Reson Med 2013; 72:220-6. [PMID: 23963978 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.24910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Use of external coils with internal detectors or conductors is challenging at 7 Tesla (T) due to radiofrequency (RF) field (B1 ) penetration, B1 -inhomogeneity, mutual coupling, and potential local RF heating. The present study tests whether the near-quadratic gains in signal-to-noise ratio and field-of-view with field-strength previously reported for internal loopless antennae at 7T can suffice to perform MRI with an interventional transmit/receive antenna without using any external coils. METHODS External coils were replaced by semi-rigid or biocompatible transmit/receive loopless antennae requiring only a few Watts of peak RF power. Slice selection was provided by spatially selective B1 -insensitive composite RF pulses that compensate for the antenna's intrinsically nonuniform B1 -field. Power was adjusted to maintain local temperature rise ≤1°C. Fruit, intravascular MRI of diseased human vessels in vitro, and MRI of rabbit aorta in vivo are demonstrated. RESULTS Scout MRI with the transmit/receive antennae yielded a ≤10 cm cylindrical field-of-view, enabling subsequent targeted localization at ∼100 μm resolution in 10-50 s and/or 50 μm MRI in ∼2 min in vitro, and 100-300 μm MRI of the rabbit aorta in vivo. CONCLUSION A simple, low-power, one-device approach to interventional MRI at 7T offers the potential of truly high-resolution MRI, while avoiding issues with external coil excitation and interactions at 7T.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Arcan Erturk
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Maas MC, Vos EK, Lagemaat MW, Bitz AK, Orzada S, Kobus T, Kraff O, Maderwald S, Ladd ME, Scheenen TWJ. Feasibility of T2 -weighted turbo spin echo imaging of the human prostate at 7 tesla. Magn Reson Med 2013; 71:1711-9. [PMID: 23798333 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.24818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2013] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To demonstrate that high quality T2 -weighted (T2w) turbo spin-echo (TSE) imaging of the complete prostate can be achieved routinely and within safety limits at 7 T, using an external transceive body array coil only. METHODS Nine healthy volunteers and 12 prostate cancer patients were scanned on a 7 T whole-body system. Preparation consisted of B0 and radiofrequency shimming and localized flip angle calibration. T1 and T2 relaxation times were measured and used to define the T2w-TSE protocol. T2w imaging was performed using a TSE sequence (pulse repetition time/echo time 3000-3640/71 ms) with prolonged excitation and refocusing pulses to reduce specific absorption rate. RESULTS High quality T2w TSE imaging was performed in less than 2 min in all subjects. Tumors of patients with gold-standard tumor localization (MR-guided biopsy or prostatectomy) were well visualized on 7 T imaging (n = 3). The number of consecutive slices achievable within a 10-g averaged specific absorption rate limit of 10 W/kg was ≥28 in all subjects, sufficient for full prostate coverage with 3-mm slices in at least one direction. CONCLUSION High quality T2w TSE prostate imaging can be performed routinely and within specific absorption rate limits at 7 T with an external transceive body array.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marnix C Maas
- Department of Radiology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Ipek O, Raaijmakers AJ, Lagendijk JJ, Luijten PR, van den Berg CAT. Intersubject local SAR variation for 7T prostate MR imaging with an eight-channel single-side adapted dipole antenna array. Magn Reson Med 2013; 71:1559-67. [PMID: 23754584 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.24794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Surface transmit arrays used in ultra-high field body MRI require local specific absorption rate (SAR) assessment. As local SAR cannot be measured directly, local SAR is determined by simulations using dielectric patient models. In this study, the inter-patient local SAR variation is investigated for 7T prostate imaging with the single-side adapted dipole antenna array. METHOD Four-dedicated dielectric models were created by segmenting Dixon water-fat separated images that were obtained from four subjects with a 1.5T scanner and the surface array in place. Electromagnetic simulations were performed to calculate the SAR distribution for each model. Radio frequency (RF) exposure variations were determined by analyzing the SAR(10g) distributions (1) with one element active, (2) using a Q-matrix eigenvalue/eigenvector approach, (3) with the maximum potential SAR in each voxel, and (4) for a phase shimmed prostate measurement. RESULTS Maximum potential local SAR levels for 1 W time-averaged accepted power per transmit channel range from 4.1 to 7.1 W/kg. CONCLUSION These variations show that one model is not sufficient to determine safe scan settings. For the operation of the surface array conservative power settings were derived based on a worst-case SAR evaluation and the most SAR-sensitive body model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Ipek
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Arteaga de Castro CS, Luttje MP, van Vulpen M, Luijten PR, van der Heide UA, Klomp DWJ. Composite slice-selective adiabatic excitation for prostate MRSI. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2013; 26:436-442. [PMID: 23074162 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.2881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2012] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/12/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Higher magnetic field strengths, such as 7 T, offer increased spectral resolution and higher signal-to-noise ratio. These properties can be very advantageous for MRSI. In particular, signals that generally overlap at lower fields, such as choline, polyamines and creatine, can be resolved at 7 T. However, higher magnetic field strengths suffer from strong radiofrequency (RF) field nonuniformities. These nonuniformities become even stronger when using surface transceivers, such as an endorectal coil for prostate imaging. In order to obtain uniform excitations for accurate MRSI measurements, adiabatic sequences are therefore recommended. Conventional adiabatic MRS sequences (i.e. localization by adiabatic selective refocusing, LASER) have relatively long TEs, especially when optimized to measure the strongly coupled spins of citrate in the prostate. The semi-LASER (sLASER) sequence has a significantly shorter TE, although it does not provide adiabatic excitation. Therefore, we propose an adiabatic sLASER sequence that either has a composite adiabatic slice-selective excitation (cLASER) or a non-slice-selective adiabatic excitation (nsLASER), allowing for shorter TEs, whilst maintaining the adiabatic spin excitation. Furthermore, the spatial properties of the composite adiabatic excitation allow for a high slice excitation bandwidth, resulting in negligible chemical shift displacement artifacts. Exclusion of the slice selection can be considered once the field of view extends beyond the transmit field of the RF coil. The use of a transceiver at high magnetic field strengths has shown that the cLASER and nsLASER sequences are suitable for MRSI of the prostate in both phantom and in vivo validations.
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De Martino F, Schmitter S, Moerel M, Tian J, Ugurbil K, Formisano E, Yacoub E, de Moortele PFV. Spin echo functional MRI in bilateral auditory cortices at 7 T: an application of B₁ shimming. Neuroimage 2012; 63:1313-20. [PMID: 22917678 PMCID: PMC3472083 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2012.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 07/21/2012] [Accepted: 08/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ultra high fields (UHF) permit unprecedented explorations of functional organizations and insight into basic neuronal processes. Increases in the signal and contrast to noise ratios have allowed increases in the spatial resolution of T(2) weighted gradient echo (GE) echo planar imaging (EPI). Furthermore, while the use of T(2) weighted imaging methods at UHF (e.g. spin echo (SE) EPI, gradient and spin echo (GRASE) EPI) can also permit higher resolution images, they in addition allow for increased spatial specificity of functional responses, permitting the in-vivo study of functional organizations down to the columnar level of the cortex. The study of the visual cortex has, thus far, benefitted the most from higher resolution T(2) weighted studies as achieving the required transmit B(1) magnitude at 7T is more challenging in other brain regions, such as the auditory cortex. As such, auditory fMRI studies at UHF have been limited to T(2) weighted GE sequences. Recent advances in multi-channel RF transmission (e.g. B(1) shimming) have enabled procedures to efficiently address deficiencies in transmit B(1) profiles. However, these techniques, shown to be advantageous in anatomical imaging at UHF, are not generally utilized to facilitate T(2) weighted fMRI studies. Here we investigate the feasibility of applying B(1) shimming to achieve efficient RF transmission in the human auditory cortex. We demonstrate that, with B(1) shimming, functional responses to simple tones and to complex sounds (i.e. voices, speech, animal cries, tools and nature) can be efficiently measured with T(2) weighted SE-EPI in the bilateral human auditory cortex at 7T without exceeding specific absorption rate (SAR) limits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico De Martino
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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43
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Ellermann J, Goerke U, Morgan P, Ugurbil K, Tian J, Schmitter S, Vaughan T, Van De Moortele PF. Simultaneous bilateral hip joint imaging at 7 Tesla using fast transmit B₁ shimming methods and multichannel transmission - a feasibility study. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2012; 25:1202-8. [PMID: 22311346 PMCID: PMC3419302 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.2779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2011] [Revised: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 12/16/2011] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of simultaneous bilateral hip imaging at 7 Tesla. Hip joint MRI becomes clinically critical since recent advances have made hip arthroscopy an efficacious approach to treat a variety of early hip diseases. The success of these treatments requires a reliable and accurate diagnosis of intraarticular abnormalities at an early stage. Articular cartilage assessment is especially important to guide surgical decisions but is difficult to achieve with current MR methods. Because of gains in tissue contrast and spatial resolution reported at ultra high magnetic fields, there are strong expectations that imaging the hip joint at 7 Tesla will improve diagnostic accuracy. Furthermore, there is growing evidence that the majority of these hip abnormalities occur bilaterally, emphasizing the need for bilateral imaging. However, obtaining high quality images in the human torso, in particular of both hips simultaneously, must overcome a major challenge arising from the damped traveling wave behaviour of RF waves at 7 Tesla that leads to severe inhomogeneities in transmit B1 (B(1) (+) ) phase and magnitude, typically resulting in areas of low signal and contrast, and consequently impairing use for clinical applications. To overcome this problem, a 16-channel stripline transceiver RF coil was used, together with a B1 shimming algorithm aiming at maximizing B(1) (+) in six regions of interest over the hips that were identified on axial scout images. Our successful results demonstrate that this approach effectively reduces inhomogeneities observed before B1 shimming and provides high joint tissue contrast in both hips while reducing the required RF power. Critical to this success was a fast small flip angle B(1) (+) calibration scan that permitted the computation of subject-specific B1 shimming solutions, a necessary step to account for large spatial variations in B(1) (+) phase observed in different subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ellermann
- University of Minnesota Medical Center, Department of Radiology, Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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Zhang X, Van de Moortele PF, Schmitter S, He B. Complex B1 mapping and electrical properties imaging of the human brain using a 16-channel transceiver coil at 7T. Magn Reson Med 2012; 69:1285-96. [PMID: 22692921 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.24358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2011] [Revised: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The electric properties of biological tissue provide important diagnostic information within radio and microwave frequencies, and also play an important role in specific absorption rate calculation which is a major safety concern at ultrahigh field. The recently proposed electrical properties tomography (EPT) technique aims to reconstruct electric properties in biological tissues based on B1 measurement. However, for individual coil element in multichannel transceiver coil which is increasingly utilized at ultrahigh field, current B1-mapping techniques could not provide adequate information (magnitude and absolute phase) of complex transmit and receive B1 which are essential for electrical properties tomography, electric field, and quantitative specific absorption rate assessment. In this study, using a 16-channel transceiver coil at 7T, based on hybrid B1-mapping techniques within the human brain, a complex B1-mapping method has been developed, and in vivo electric properties imaging of the human brain has been demonstrated by applying a logarithm-based inverse algorithm. Computer simulation studies as well as phantom and human experiments have been conducted at 7T. The average bias and standard deviation for reconstructed conductivity in vivo were 28% and 67%, and 10% and 43% for relative permittivity, respectively. The present results suggest the feasibility and reliability of proposed complex B1-mapping technique and electric properties reconstruction method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
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Moser E, Stahlberg F, Ladd ME, Trattnig S. 7-T MR--from research to clinical applications? NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2012; 25:695-716. [PMID: 22102481 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.1794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Revised: 08/25/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Over 20,000 MR systems are currently installed worldwide and, although the majority operate at magnetic fields of 1.5 T and below (i.e. about 70%), experience with 3-T (in high-field clinical diagnostic imaging and research) and 7-T (research only) human MR scanners points to a future in functional and metabolic MR diagnostics. Complementary to previous studies, this review attempts to provide an overview of ultrahigh-field MR research with special emphasis on emerging clinical applications at 7 T. We provide a short summary of the technical development and the current status of installed MR systems. The advantages and challenges of ultrahigh-field MRI and MRS are discussed with special emphasis on radiofrequency inhomogeneity, relaxation times, signal-to-noise improvements, susceptibility effects, chemical shifts, specific absorption rate and other safety issues. In terms of applications, we focus on the topics most likely to gain significantly from 7-T MR, i.e. brain imaging and spectroscopy and musculoskeletal imaging, but also body imaging, which is particularly challenging. Examples are given to demonstrate the advantages of susceptibility-weighted imaging, time-of-flight MR angiography, high-resolution functional MRI, (1)H and (31)P MRSI in the human brain, sodium and functional imaging of cartilage and the first results (and artefacts) using an eight-channel body array, suggesting future areas of research that should be intensified in order to fully explore the potential of 7-T MR systems for use in clinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewald Moser
- Centre for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Metzger GJ, Auerbach EJ, Akgun C, Simonson J, Bi X, Uğurbil K, van de Moortele PF. Dynamically applied B1+ shimming solutions for non-contrast enhanced renal angiography at 7.0 Tesla. Magn Reson Med 2012; 69:114-26. [PMID: 22442056 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.24237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Revised: 01/13/2012] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to detail a strategy for performing non-contrast enhanced renal magnetic resonance angiography studies at 7.0 T. It is demonstrated that with proper B1+ management, these studies can be successfully performed at ultrahigh field within local specific absorption rate constraints. An inversion prepared gradient echo acquisition, standard for non-contrast renal magnetic resonance angiography studies, required radiofrequency pulse specific B 1+ shimming solutions to be dynamically applied to address the field dependent increases in both B(0) and B1+ inhomogeneity as well as to accommodate limitation in available power. By using more efficient B1+ shimming solutions for the inversion preparation and more homogeneous solutions for the excitation, high quality images of the renal arteries were obtained without venous and background signal artifacts while working within hardware and safety constraints. Finite difference time domain simulations confirmed in vivo measurements with respect to B1+ distributions and homogeneity for the range of shimming strategies used and allowed the calculation of peak local specific absorption rate values normalized by input power and B1+. Increasing B1+ homogeneity was accompanied by decreasing local specific absorption rate per Watt and increasing maximum local specific absorption rate per [B1+](2), which must be considered, along with body size and respiratory rate, when finalizing acquisition parameters for a given individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J Metzger
- Department of Radiology, Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
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The road to functional imaging and ultrahigh fields. Neuroimage 2012; 62:726-35. [PMID: 22333670 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2012.01.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2011] [Revised: 01/24/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Center for Magnetic Resonance (CMRR) at the University of Minnesota was one of the laboratories where the work that simultaneously and independently introduced functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of human brain activity was carried out. However, unlike other laboratories pursuing fMRI at the time, our work was performed at 4T magnetic field and coincided with the effort to push human magnetic resonance imaging to field strength significantly beyond 1.5T which was the high-end standard of the time. The human fMRI experiments performed in CMRR were planned between two colleagues who had known each other and had worked together previously in Bell Laboratories, namely Seiji Ogawa and myself, immediately after the Blood Oxygenation Level Dependent (BOLD) contrast was developed by Seiji. We were waiting for our first human system, a 4T system, to arrive in order to attempt at imaging brain activity in the human brain and these were the first experiments we performed on the 4T instrument in CMRR when it became marginally operational. This was a prelude to a subsequent systematic push we initiated for exploiting higher magnetic fields to improve the accuracy and sensitivity of fMRI maps, first going to 9.4T for animal model studies and subsequently developing a 7T human system for the first time. Steady improvements in high field instrumentation and ever expanding armamentarium of image acquisition and engineering solutions to challenges posed by ultrahigh fields have brought fMRI to submillimeter resolution in the whole brain at 7T, the scale necessary to reach cortical columns and laminar differentiation in the whole brain. The solutions that emerged in response to technological challenges posed by 7T also propagated and continues to propagate to lower field clinical systems, a major advantage of the ultrahigh fields effort that is underappreciated. Further improvements at 7T are inevitable. Further translation of these improvements to lower field clinical systems to achieve new capabilities and to magnetic fields significantly higher than 7T to enable human imaging is inescapable.
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Ipek O, Raaijmakers AJE, Klomp DWJ, Lagendijk JJW, Luijten PR, van den Berg CAT. Characterization of transceive surface element designs for 7 tesla magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate: radiative antenna and microstrip. Phys Med Biol 2011; 57:343-55. [PMID: 22170777 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/57/2/343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Ultra-high field magnetic resonance (≥7 tesla) imaging (MRI) faces challenges with respect to efficient spin excitation and signal reception from deeply situated organs. Traditional radio frequency surface coil designs relying on near-field coupling are suboptimal at high field strengths. Better signal penetration can be obtained by designing a radiative antenna in which the energy flux is directed to the target location. In this paper, two different radiative antenna designs are investigated to be used as transceive elements, which employ different dielectric permittivities for the antenna substrate. Their transmit and receive performances in terms of B(+)(1), local SAR (specific absorption rate) and SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) were compared using extensive electromagnetic simulations and MRI measurements with traditional surface microstrip coils. Both simulations and measurements demonstrated that the radiative element shows twofold gain in B(+)(1) and SNR at 10 cm depth, and additionally a comparable SAR peak value. In terms of transmit performance, the radiative antenna with a dielectric permittivity of 37 showed a 24% more favorable local SAR(10g avg)/(B(+)(1))(2) ratio than the radiative antenna with a dielectric permittivity of 90. In receive, the radiative element with a dielectric permittivity of 90 resulted in a 20% higher SNR for shallow depths, but for larger depths this difference diminished compared to the radiative element with a dielectric permittivity of 37. Therefore, to image deep anatomical regions effectively, the radiative antenna with a dielectric permittivity of 37 is favorable.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Ipek
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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49
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Ertürk MA, El-Sharkawy AMM, Bottomley PA. Interventional loopless antenna at 7 T. Magn Reson Med 2011; 68:980-8. [PMID: 22161992 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.23280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2011] [Revised: 09/02/2011] [Accepted: 10/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The loopless antenna magnetic resonance imaging detector is comprised of a tuned coaxial cable with an extended central conductor that can be fabricated at submillimeter diameters for interventional use in guidewires, catheters, or needles. Prior work up to 4.7 T suggests a near-quadratic gain in signal-to-noise ratio with field strength and safe operation at 3 T. Here, for the first time, the signal-to-noise ratio performance and radiofrequency safety of the loopless antenna are investigated both theoretically, using the electromagnetic method-of-moments, and experimentally in a standard 7 T human scanner. The results are compared with equivalent 3 T devices. An absolute signal-to-noise ratio gain of 5.7 ± 1.5-fold was realized at 7 T vs. 3 T: more than 20-fold higher than at 1.5 T. The effective field-of-view area also increased approximately 10-fold compared with 3 T. Testing in a saline gel phantom suggested that safe operation is possible with maximum local 1-g average specific absorption rates of <12 W kg(-1) and temperature increases of <1.9°C, normalized to a 4 W kg(-1) radiofrequency field exposure at 7 T. The antenna did not affect the power applied to the scanner's transmit coil. The signal-to-noise ratio gain enabled magnetic resonance imaging microscopy at 40-50 μm resolution in diseased human arterial specimens, offering the potential of high-resolution large-field-of-view or endoscopic magnetic resonance imaging for targeted intervention in focal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Arcan Ertürk
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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50
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Pang Y, Xie Z, Xu D, Kelley DA, Nelson SJ, Vigneron DB, Zhang X. A dual-tuned quadrature volume coil with mixed λ/2 and λ/4 microstrip resonators for multinuclear MRSI at 7 T. Magn Reson Imaging 2011; 30:290-8. [PMID: 22055851 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2011.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2010] [Revised: 08/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In this work, an eight-element by eight-element dual-tuned quadrature volume coil with a mix of capacitor terminated half-wavelength (λ/2) and quarter-wavelength (λ/4) microstrip resonators is proposed for multinuclear magnetic resonance imaging/spectroscopy studies at 7 T. In the proton channel, λ/2 microstrip resonators with capacitive terminations on both ends are employed for operation at higher frequency of 298.1 MHz; in the heteronucleus channel, capacitor-terminated λ/4 resonators, suitable for low frequency operations, are used to meet the low frequency requirement. This mixed structure design is particularly advantageous for high field heteronuclei magnetic resonance applications with large difference in Larmor frequency of the nuclei in question. The proposed design method makes it much easier to perform frequency tuning for heteronucleus channel using a variable capacitor with a practical capacitance range. As an example, a dual-tuned volume coil for (1)H/(13)C mouse spectroscopic imaging was proposed to demonstrate the feasibility of this method. The finite-difference time-domain method is first used to model this dual-tuned volume coil and calculate the B(1) field distributions at two frequencies. Transmission parameters (S(21)) measured between the proton channel and the carbon channel are -50 dB at 75 MHz and -35 dB at 298 MHz, showing the excellent isolation between the two channels at 7 T. The proton image and (13)C FIDCSI image of a corn oil phantom on the axial plane at 7 T demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method. A preliminary proton image of a mouse on the sagittal plane is also acquired using the proposed dual-tuned volume coil at 7 T, illustrating a fairly uniform B(1) field and sufficient image coverage for imaging in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Pang
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158-2330, USA
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