Virtual Meetings

Molecular MRI aims to improve biological specificity by generating imaging signals that report on defined molecular and cellular events. This virtual meeting will present two emerging molecular MRI approaches for studying brain function. Yi Zhang, Ph.D., will describe CEST MRI combined with a dynamic signal model that accounts for BOLD contributions to generate glutamate-weighted activation maps during stimulation. Robert Ohlendorf, Ph.D., will describe photosensitized vasculature that acts as a biological transducer, converting bioluminescent reporter emission into localized hemodynamic signals detectable by MRI. Together, the metabolite-sensitive imaging and engineered vascular reporter approaches demonstrate how molecular MRI can link neurochemistry and cellular events to brain-scale imaging. The speakers will discuss the underlying principles, technical challenges, validation requirements, and future applications of these methods.

This webinar will explore recent advances in understanding the neural mechanisms of psychedelics and their potential applications in psychiatric treatment. Hsiao-Ying (Monica) Wey, Ph.D., will discuss recent PET/MRI and fMRI findings on psychedelic-induced changes in receptor activity and brain function. Jessica Maples-Keller, Ph.D., will present the clinical perspective, focusing on psychedelic-assisted therapy for PTSD. Together, the presentations will bridge neuroimaging research and clinical applications, highlighting how imaging may help explain therapeutic mechanisms and guide future studies.

How did we end up with the magnetic field strengths we currently have? How did the physics and engineering of superconducting magnets impact the growth of the field? Where might this technology lead us in the future? Six scientists and engineers who played key roles in the development of these systems will discuss how we got here and where we might be going in the context of three key decision points: 1.5T vs. 2T, 3T vs. 4T, and 7T vs. 8T or 9.4T. We will discuss how the technology has evolved over the past 40 years and how the field has responded to needs for lower cryogen and power consumption.

Speakers:

This webinar is the next installment of our ISMRM-WFPI series on artificial intelligence in pediatric MRI. We will cover interesting topics in the generalizability of AI in pediatrics and transitioning AI to clinical practice.

Speakers:

Recent advances in high-performance gradient hardware have led to substantial increases in both gradient strength and slew rate, particularly in next-generation head-only MRI systems. These developments open new opportunities for diffusion MRI, enabling higher spatial and angular resolution and greater sensitivity to tissue microstructure. They also motivate the development of acquisition strategies that can take full advantage of these enhanced capabilities.

In this virtual meeting, speakers will introduce these emerging systems and discuss their potential benefits for diffusion imaging. They will showcase results achieved to date, highlighting how advances in hardware are expanding the possibilities for diffusion acquisition and microstructural imaging. Speakers will also share their perspectives on future directions, including opportunities for further methodological development and the challenges involved in realizing the full potential of these technologies.

For this webinar, the first talk highlights the best strategies for MRI safety across different magnetic field strengths from low field to high field including safety around devices, an emerging consideration in paediatric patients. The second talk focuses on MR hardware considerations for image acquisition unique to pediatrics from fetal to perinatal to infant, young child, and adolescent, and ways to optimize signal-to-noise, contrast-to-noise, and artifact reduction. Faster acquisitions for feed and sleep techniques and to reduce the need for general anesthesia are explored.