The travelling-wave MRI problem

One of the major limitations in performing MRI imaging with high field strengths (3T or 7T) in humans has been than the resultant magnetic field tends to be spatially inhomogeneous and reconstructed images tend to have areas where signal is lost. This post highlights a recent paper ( Brunner et al., Nature, 2009 ) which shows how these problems can effectively be solved using a remote antenna. Very influential work!

High spatial and temoporal resolution in magnetic resonance

Scientists developing instrumentation and techniques for in vivo imaging desperately try for both high spatial resolution and high temporal resolution for their devices. The former allows them to visualize small or weak objects more clearly and helps in quantification. The latter allows for the detailed study of dynamic processes. This post highlights two recent articles: Degen et al, PNAS, Jan 2009 and Weizenecker et al Phys. Med. Bio, 2009. The first article shows a technique of obtaining nanometer level spatial resolution for MRI. The second article shows first in vivo imaging results using real time magnetic particle imaging. Both articles are well written and demonstrate high grade science.

Proton therapy for cancer treatment

The technique of proton-beam therapy has undergone re-birth over the past decade and should soon be a part of clinical practice for oncology. This post is about a recent Vision 20/20 paper by Smith, Medical Physics, Feb 2009, that overviews this technology and advocates pRoton therapy over pHoton therapy. The potential of this technology is clear and the future is very promising. I know this is not medical imaging, but it influences the field greatly.