A 16-channel dual-row transmit array in combination with a 31-element receive array for human brain imaging at 9.4 T

Shajan, G. , Kozlov, M., Hoffmann, J., Turner, R., Scheffler, K. and Pohmann, R. (2014) A 16-channel dual-row transmit array in combination with a 31-element receive array for human brain imaging at 9.4 T. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, 71(2), pp. 870-879. (doi: 10.1002/mrm.24726) (PMID:23483645)

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Abstract

Purpose: Arranging transmit array elements in multiple rows provides an additional degree of freedom to correct B1+ field inhomogeneities and to achieve whole-brain excitation at ultrahigh field strengths. Receive arrays shaped to the contours of the anatomy increase the signal-to-noise ratio of the image. In this work, the advantages offered by the transmit and receive array techniques are combined for human brain imaging at 9.4 T. Methods: A 16-element dual-row transmit array and a 31-element receive array were developed. Based on an accurate numerical model of the transmit array, the deposited power was calculated for different head sizes and positions. The influence of the receive array on the transmit field was characterized. Parallel imaging performance and signal-to-noise ratio of the receive array were evaluated. Results: On average, a two fold increase in signal-to-noise ratio was observed in the whole-brain volume when compared with a 16-channel elliptic microstrip transceiver array. The benefits of combining the two arrays, B1+ shimming in three directions and high receive sensitivity, are demonstrated with high-resolution in vivo images. Conclusion: The dual-row transmit array provides whole-brain coverage at 9.4 T, which, in combination with the helmet-shaped receive array, is a valuable radio frequency configuration for ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging of the human brain.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Gunamony, Dr Shajan
Authors: Shajan, G., Kozlov, M., Hoffmann, J., Turner, R., Scheffler, K., and Pohmann, R.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Psychology & Neuroscience
Journal Name:Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Publisher:Wiley
ISSN:0740-3194
ISSN (Online):1522-2594
Published Online:11 March 2013

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