3T MR scanner
PET scanner
microPET scanner
Scanning simulation room
Tandem accelerator
EEG facility
Dedicated computing facilities
Want to start your own MRI study?
Sample MRI Imaging Protocol & Parameters (excel format)
Sample MRI Images:
High Resolution Anatomical Images |
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Functional MR Images |
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Diffusion Tensor Images |
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The scanner, a 3.0 Tesla X750 GE Discovery, was installed in April 2009. Equipped with the most powerful gradients found in the industry, new water-cooled gradient amplifier and 64-bit data pipeline with dual blade processing. Custom pulse sequences are developed using GE's EPIC software development package. Brain imaging studies (fMRI, structural and DTI) are done using either a quadrature birdcage coil, 8-channel array head coil, 16-channel array head coil, or 32-channel array head coil.
Visual stimulation can be delivered by using an advanced fiber optic goggle system (Avotec), the high resolution Visuastim XGA system (Resonance Technology), or using back-projection with an LCD projector and a screen at the end of the table. The Avotec fiber optic goggles are interfaced with SensoMotoric Instruments eye-tracking system (sampling rate of 50 HZ). This eye-tracking system yields four different analyses: percentage analysis, pictorial analysis, order of object vs. time, and pupil diameter vs. time.
Auditory stimulus is presented using a pneumatic headphone system (Avotec). All auditory stimuli are presented through a digital equalizer that is optimized for tone and clarity.
Stabilizing patients to minimize head movement is critical for MRI studies. The lab has two head stabilizing methods: vacuum pillow, and foam inserts.
Collection of peripheral physiological measures in the MRI are done using the Biopac MP150 system. The MP150 system provides high resolution (16 bit), variable sample rates for analog and calculation channels, 16 analog inputs and two analog outputs, digital I/O lines (automatically control other TTL level equipment), and 16 online calculation channels. The MP150 System provides high-speed acquisition (400 kHz aggregate), and Ethernet connectivity. Controlling the Biopac is the software, AcqKnowledge. This software is an interactive program that lets lab members instantly view, measure, analyze, and transform the incoming data.
To acclimate patients to the unique environment of the MRI scanner, the lab houses a simulator room. This room has a mock MRI scanner, another Avotec fiber optic goggle system, and auditory system with two control computers. A motion detection system (based upon linear accelerometers) with video feedback is available for training subjects to not move in the scanner. This room is used to introduce subjects to the identical experimental procedures that they will experience in the actual scanner. This is done to ensure subject comfort and data quality.
The MRI facilities are supported by a full-time physicist, imaging technologists, and research staff.