A Flexible Nested Sodium and Proton Coil Array with Wideband Matching for Knee Cartilage MRI at 3 Tesla

PubMed Central

Brown, Ryan; Lakshmanan, Karthik; Madelin, Guillaume; Alon, Leeor; Chang, Gregory; Sodickson, Daniel K.; Regatte, Ravinder R.; Wiggins, Graham C.

2015-01-01

Purpose We describe a 6×2 channel sodium/proton array for knee MRI at 3 Tesla. Multi-element coil arrays are desirable because of well-known signal-to-noise ratio advantages over volume and single-element coils. However, low coil-tissue coupling that is characteristic of coils operating at low frequency can make the potential gains from a phased array difficult to realize. Methods The issue of low coil-tissue coupling in the developed six channel sodium receive array was addressed by implementing 1) a mechanically flexible former to minimize coil-to-tissue distance and reduce the overall diameter of the array and 2) a wideband matching scheme that counteracts preamplifier noise degradation caused by coil coupling and a high quality factor. The sodium array was complemented with a nested proton array to enable standard MRI. Results The wideband matching scheme and tight-fitting mechanical design contributed to greater than 30% central SNR gain on the sodium module over a mono-nuclear sodium birdcage coil, while the performance of the proton module was sufficient for clinical imaging. Conclusion We expect the strategies presented in this work to be generally relevant in high density receive arrays, particularly in x-nuclei or small animal applications, or in those where the array is distant from the targeted tissue. PMID:26502310

Multiple-mouse MRI with multiple arrays of receive coils.

PubMed

Ramirez, Marc S; Esparza-Coss, Emilio; Bankson, James A

2010-03-01

Compared to traditional single-animal imaging methods, multiple-mouse MRI has been shown to dramatically improve imaging throughput and reduce the potentially prohibitive cost for instrument access. To date, up to a single radiofrequency coil has been dedicated to each animal being simultaneously scanned, thus limiting the sensitivity, flexibility, and ultimate throughput. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of multiple-mouse MRI with a phased-array coil dedicated to each animal. A dual-mouse imaging system, consisting of a pair of two-element phased-array coils, was developed and used to achieve acceleration factors greater than the number of animals scanned at once. By simultaneously scanning two mice with a retrospectively gated cardiac cine MRI sequence, a 3-fold acceleration was achieved with signal-to-noise ratio in the heart that is equivalent to that achieved with an unaccelerated scan using a commercial mouse birdcage coil. (c) 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Parallel magnetic resonance imaging using coils with localized sensitivities.

PubMed

Goldfarb, James W; Holland, Agnes E

2004-09-01

The purpose of this study was to present clinical examples and illustrate the inefficiencies of a conventional reconstruction using a commercially available phased array coil with localized sensitivities. Five patients were imaged at 1.5 T using a cardiac-synchronized gadolinium-enhanced acquisition and a commercially available four-element phased array coil. Four unique sets of images were reconstructed from the acquired k-space data: (a) sum-of-squares image using four elements of the coil; localized sum-of-squares images from the (b) anterior coils and (c) posterior coils and a (c) local reconstruction. Images were analyzed for artifacts and usable field-of-view. Conventional image reconstruction produced images with fold-over artifacts in all cases spanning a portion of the image (mean 90 mm; range 36-126 mm). The local reconstruction removed fold-over artifacts and resulted in an effective increase in the field-of-view (mean 50%; range 20-70%). Commercially available phased array coils do not always have overlapping sensitivities. Fold-over artifacts can be removed using an alternate reconstruction method. When assessing the advantages of parallel imaging techniques, gains achieved using techniques such as SENSE and SMASH should be gauged against the acquisition time of the localized method rather than the conventional sum-of-squares method.

Specific coil design for SENSE: a six-element cardiac array.

PubMed

Weiger, M; Pruessmann, K P; Leussler, C; Röschmann, P; Boesiger, P

2001-03-01

In sensitivity encoding (SENSE), the effects of inhomogeneous spatial sensitivity of surface coils are utilized for signal localization in addition to common Fourier encoding using magnetic field gradients. Unlike standard Fourier MRI, SENSE images exhibit an inhomogeneous noise distribution, which crucially depends on the geometrical sensitivity relations of the coils used. Thus, for optimum signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) and noise homogeneity, specialized coil configurations are called for. In this article we study the implications of SENSE imaging for coil layout by means of simulations and imaging experiments in a phantom and in vivo. New, specific design principles are identified. For SENSE imaging, the elements of a coil array should be smaller than for common phased-array imaging. Furthermore, adjacent coil elements should not overlap. Based on the findings of initial investigations, a configuration of six coils was designed and built specifically for cardiac applications. The in vivo evaluation of this array showed a considerable SNR increase in SENSE images, as compared with a conventional array. Magn Reson Med 45:495-504, 2001. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Renal magnetic resonance angiography at 3.0 Tesla using a 32-element phased-array coil system and parallel imaging in 2 directions.

PubMed

Fenchel, Michael; Nael, Kambiz; Deshpande, Vibhas S; Finn, J Paul; Kramer, Ulrich; Miller, Stephan; Ruehm, Stefan; Laub, Gerhard

2006-09-01

The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of renal magnetic resonance angiography at 3.0 T using a phased-array coil system with 32-coil elements. Specifically, high parallel imaging factors were used for an increased spatial resolution and anatomic coverage of the whole abdomen. Signal-to-noise values and the g-factor distribution of the 32 element coil were examined in phantom studies for the magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) sequence. Eleven volunteers (6 men, median age of 30.0 years) were examined on a 3.0-T MR scanner (Magnetom Trio, Siemens Medical Solutions, Malvern, PA) using a 32-element phased-array coil (prototype from In vivo Corp.). Contrast-enhanced 3D-MRA (TR 2.95 milliseconds, TE 1.12 milliseconds, flip angle 25-30 degrees , bandwidth 650 Hz/pixel) was acquired with integrated generalized autocalibrating partially parallel acquisition (GRAPPA), in both phase- and slice-encoding direction. Images were assessed by 2 independent observers with regard to image quality, noise and presence of artifacts. Signal-to-noise levels of 22.2 +/- 22.0 and 57.9 +/- 49.0 were measured with (GRAPPAx6) and without parallel-imaging, respectively. The mean g-factor of the 32-element coil for GRAPPA with an acceleration of 3 and 2 in the phase-encoding and slice-encoding direction, respectively, was 1.61. High image quality was found in 9 of 11 volunteers (2.6 +/- 0.8) with good overall interobserver agreement (k = 0.87). Relatively low image quality with higher noise levels were encountered in 2 volunteers. MRA at 3.0 T using a 32-element phased-array coil is feasible in healthy volunteers. High diagnostic image quality and extended anatomic coverage could be achieved with application of high parallel imaging factors.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the anal canal using high resolution sequences and phased array coil: visualization of anal sphincter complex.

PubMed

Laghi, A; Iafrate, F; Paolantonio, P; Iannaccone, R; Baeli, I; Ferrari, R; Catalano, C; Passariello, R

2002-04-01

To assess the normal anatomy of the anal sphincter complex using high-resolution MR imaging with phased -array coil. Twenty patients, 13 males and 7 females, ranging in age between 27 and 56 years underwent MRI evaluation of the pelvic region, using a superconductive 1.5 T magnet (maximum gradient strength, 25 mT/m; minimum rise time 600 microseconds, equipped with phased-array coil. High-resolution T2-weighted Turbo Spin Echo sequences (TR, 4055 ms; TE, 132 ms; matrix 390x512; in-plane resolution, 0.67x0.57 mm) were acquired on multiple axial, sagittal and coronal planes. Images were reviewed by two experienced gastrointestinal radiologists in order to evaluate the normal anal sphincter complex. Optimal image quality of the anal sphincter complex was obtained in all cases. Different muscular layers were observed between the upper and lower aspects of the anal canal. In the lower part of the anal canal, internal and external sphincter muscles could be observed; in the upper part, puborectal and internal sphincter muscles were depicted. Good visualization of intersphincteric space, levator ani muscle and ischioanal space was also obtained in all cases. High-resolution MR images with phased-array coil provide optimal depiction of the anal canal and the anal sphincter complex.

96-Channel receive-only head coil for 3 Tesla: design optimization and evaluation.

PubMed

Wiggins, Graham C; Polimeni, Jonathan R; Potthast, Andreas; Schmitt, Melanie; Alagappan, Vijay; Wald, Lawrence L

2009-09-01

The benefits and challenges of highly parallel array coils for head imaging were investigated through the development of a 3T receive-only phased-array head coil with 96 receive elements constructed on a close-fitting helmet-shaped former. We evaluated several designs for the coil elements and matching circuitry, with particular attention to sources of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) loss, including various sources of coil loading and coupling between the array elements. The SNR and noise amplification (g-factor) in accelerated imaging were quantitatively evaluated in phantom and human imaging and compared to a 32-channel array built on an identical helmet-shaped former and to a larger commercial 12-channel head coil. The 96-channel coil provided substantial SNR gains in the distal cortex compared to the 12- and 32-channel coils. The central SNR for the 96-channel coil was similar to the 32-channel coil for optimum SNR combination and 20% lower for root-sum-of-squares combination. There was a significant reduction in the maximum g-factor for 96 channels compared to 32; for example, the 96-channel maximum g-factor was 65% of the 32-channel value for acceleration rate 4. The performance of the array is demonstrated in highly accelerated brain images.

Experimental implementation of array-compressed parallel transmission at 7 tesla.

PubMed

Yan, Xinqiang; Cao, Zhipeng; Grissom, William A

2016-06-01

To implement and validate a hardware-based array-compressed parallel transmission (acpTx) system. In array-compressed parallel transmission, a small number of transmit channels drive a larger number of transmit coils, which are connected via an array compression network that implements optimized coil-to-channel combinations. A two channel-to-eight coil array compression network was developed using power splitters, attenuators and phase shifters, and a simulation was performed to investigate the effects of coil coupling on power dissipation in a simplified network. An eight coil transmit array was constructed using induced current elimination decoupling, and the coil and network were validated in benchtop measurements, B1+ mapping scans, and an accelerated spiral excitation experiment. The developed attenuators came within 0.08 dB of the desired attenuations, and reflection coefficients were -22 dB or better. The simulation demonstrated that up to 3× more power was dissipated in the network when coils were poorly isolated (-9.6 dB), versus well-isolated (-31 dB). Compared to split circularly-polarized coil combinations, the additional degrees of freedom provided by the array compression network led to 54% lower squared excitation error in the spiral experiment. Array-compressed parallel transmission was successfully implemented in a hardware system. Further work is needed to develop remote network tuning and to minimize network power dissipation. Magn Reson Med 75:2545-2552, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Improving MRI surface coil decoupling to reduce B1 distortion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larson, Christian

As clinical MRI systems continue to advance, larger focus is being given to image uniformity. Good image uniformity begins with generating uniform magnetic fields, which are easily distorted by induced currents on receive-only surface coils. It has become an industry standard to combat these induced currents by placing RF blocking networks on surface coils. This paper explores the effect of blocking network impedance of phased array surface coils on B1 distortion. It has been found and verified, that traditional approaches for blocking network design in complex phased arrays can leave undesirable B1 distortions at 3 Tesla. The traditional approach of LC tank blocking is explored, but shifts from the idea that higher impedance equals better B1 distortion at 3T. The result is a new design principle for a tank with a finite inductive reactance at the Larmor Frequency. The solution is demonstrated via simulation using a simple, single, large tuning loop. The same loop, along with a smaller loop, is used to derive the new design principle, which is then applied to a complex phased array structure.

A 20-Channel Receive-Only Mouse Array Coil for a 3T Clinical MRI System

PubMed Central

Keil, Boris; Wiggins, Graham C.; Triantafyllou, Christina; Wald, Lawrence L.; Meise, Florian M.; Schreiber, Laura M.; Klose, Klaus J.; Heverhagen, Johannes T.

2010-01-01

A 20-channel phased-array coil for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of mice has been designed, constructed and validated with bench measurements and high resolution accelerated imaging. The technical challenges of designing a small, high density array have been overcome using individual small-diameter coil elements arranged on a cylinder in a hexagonal overlapping design with adjacent low impedance preamplifiers to further decouple the array elements. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and noise amplification in accelerated imaging were simulated and quantitatively evaluated in phantoms and in vivo mouse images. Comparison between the 20-channel mouse array and a length-matched quadrature driven small animal birdcage coil showed an SNR increase at the periphery and in the center of the phantom of 3-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively. Comparison to a shorter but SNR-optimized birdcage coil (aspect ratio 1:1 and only half mouse coverage) showed an SNR gain of 2-fold at the edge of the phantom and similar SNR in the center. G-factor measurements indicate that the coil is well suited to acquire highly accelerated images. PMID:21433066

An implanted 8-channel array coil for high-resolution macaque MRI at 3T

PubMed Central

Janssens, T.; Keil, B.; Farivar, R.; McNab, J.A.; Polimeni, J. R.; Gerits, A.; Arsenault, J.T.; Wald, L. L.; Vanduffel, W.

2012-01-01

An 8-channel receive coil array was constructed and implanted adjacent to the skull in a male rhesus monkey in order to improve the sensitivity of (functional) brain imaging. The permanent implant was part of an acrylic headpost assembly and only the coil element loop wires were implanted. The tuning, matching, and preamplifier circuitry was connected via a removable external assembly. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and noise amplification for parallel imaging were compared to a single-, 4-, and 8-channel external receive-only coil routinely used for macaque fMRI. In vivo measurements showed significantly improved SNR within the brain for the implanted versus the external coils. Within a region-of-interest covering the cerebral cortex, we observed a 5.4-, 3.6-fold, and 3.4-fold increase in SNR compared to the external single-, 4-, and 8-channel coil, respectively. In the center of the brain, the implanted array maintained a 2.4×, 2.5×, and 2.1× higher SNR, respectively compared to the external coils. The array performance was evaluated for anatomical, diffusion tensor and functional brain imaging. This study suggests that a stable implanted phased-array coil can be used in macaque MRI to substantially increase the spatial resolution for anatomical, diffusion tensor, and functional imaging. PMID:22609793

Eight channel transmit array volume coil using on-coil radiofrequency current sources

PubMed Central

Kurpad, Krishna N.; Boskamp, Eddy B.

2014-01-01

Background At imaging frequencies associated with high-field MRI, the combined effects of increased load-coil interaction and shortened wavelength results in degradation of circular polarization and B1 field homogeneity in the imaging volume. Radio frequency (RF) shimming is known to mitigate the problem of B1 field inhomogeneity. Transmit arrays with well decoupled transmitting elements enable accurate B1 field pattern control using simple, non-iterative algorithms. Methods An eight channel transmit array was constructed. Each channel consisted of a transmitting element driven by a dedicated on-coil RF current source. The coil current distributions of characteristic transverse electromagnetic (TEM) coil resonant modes were non-iteratively set up on each transmitting element and 3T MRI images of a mineral oil phantom were obtained. Results B1 field patterns of several linear and quadrature TEM coil resonant modes that typically occur at different resonant frequencies were replicated at 128 MHz without having to retune the transmit array. The generated B1 field patterns agreed well with simulation in most cases. Conclusions Independent control of current amplitude and phase on each transmitting element was demonstrated. The transmit array with on-coil RF current sources enables B1 field shimming in a simple and predictable manner. PMID:24834418

A Specialized Multi-Transmit Head Coil for High Resolution fMRI of the Human Visual Cortex at 7T.

PubMed

Sengupta, Shubharthi; Roebroeck, Alard; Kemper, Valentin G; Poser, Benedikt A; Zimmermann, Jan; Goebel, Rainer; Adriany, Gregor

2016-01-01

To design, construct and validate radiofrequency (RF) transmit and receive phased array coils for high-resolution visual cortex imaging at 7 Tesla. A 4 channel transmit and 16 channel receive array was constructed on a conformal polycarbonate former. Transmit field efficiency and homogeneity were simulated and validated, along with the Specific Absorption Rate, using [Formula: see text] mapping techniques and electromagnetic simulations. Receiver signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), temporal SNR (tSNR) across EPI time series, g-factors for accelerated imaging and noise correlations were evaluated and compared with a commercial 32 channel whole head coil. The performance of the coil was further evaluated with human subjects through functional MRI (fMRI) studies at standard and submillimeter resolutions of upto 0.8mm isotropic. The transmit and receive sections were characterized using bench tests and showed good interelement decoupling, preamplifier decoupling and sample loading. SNR for the 16 channel coil was ∼ 1.5 times that of the commercial coil in the human occipital lobe, and showed better g-factor values for accelerated imaging. fMRI tests conducted showed better response to Blood Oxygen Level Dependent (BOLD) activation, at resolutions of 1.2mm and 0.8mm isotropic. The 4 channel phased array transmit coil provides homogeneous excitation across the visual cortex, which, in combination with the dual row 16 channel receive array, makes for a valuable research tool for high resolution anatomical and functional imaging of the visual cortex at 7T.

Artifact Suppression in Imaging of Myocardial Infarction Using B1-Weighted Phased-Array Combined Phase-Sensitive Inversion Recovery

PubMed Central

Kellman, Peter; Dyke, Christopher K.; Aletras, Anthony H.; McVeigh, Elliot R.; Arai, Andrew E.

2007-01-01

Regions of the body with long T1, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), may create ghost artifacts on gadolinium-hyperenhanced images of myocardial infarction when inversion recovery (IR) sequences are used with a segmented acquisition. Oscillations in the transient approach to steady state for regions with long T1 may cause ghosts, with the number of ghosts being equal to the number of segments. B1-weighted phased-array combining provides an inherent degree of ghost artifact suppression because the ghost artifact is weighted less than the desired signal intensity by the coil sensitivity profiles. Example images are shown that illustrate the suppression of CSF ghost artifacts by the use of B1-weighted phased-array combining of multiple receiver coils. PMID:14755669

A Specialized Multi-Transmit Head Coil for High Resolution fMRI of the Human Visual Cortex at 7T

PubMed Central

Sengupta, Shubharthi; Roebroeck, Alard; Kemper, Valentin G.; Poser, Benedikt A.; Zimmermann, Jan; Goebel, Rainer; Adriany, Gregor

2016-01-01

Purpose To design, construct and validate radiofrequency (RF) transmit and receive phased array coils for high-resolution visual cortex imaging at 7 Tesla. Methods A 4 channel transmit and 16 channel receive array was constructed on a conformal polycarbonate former. Transmit field efficiency and homogeneity were simulated and validated, along with the Specific Absorption Rate, using B1+ mapping techniques and electromagnetic simulations. Receiver signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), temporal SNR (tSNR) across EPI time series, g-factors for accelerated imaging and noise correlations were evaluated and compared with a commercial 32 channel whole head coil. The performance of the coil was further evaluated with human subjects through functional MRI (fMRI) studies at standard and submillimeter resolutions of upto 0.8mm isotropic. Results The transmit and receive sections were characterized using bench tests and showed good interelement decoupling, preamplifier decoupling and sample loading. SNR for the 16 channel coil was ∼ 1.5 times that of the commercial coil in the human occipital lobe, and showed better g-factor values for accelerated imaging. fMRI tests conducted showed better response to Blood Oxygen Level Dependent (BOLD) activation, at resolutions of 1.2mm and 0.8mm isotropic. Conclusion The 4 channel phased array transmit coil provides homogeneous excitation across the visual cortex, which, in combination with the dual row 16 channel receive array, makes for a valuable research tool for high resolution anatomical and functional imaging of the visual cortex at 7T. PMID:27911950

Increased Vessel Depiction of the Carotid Bifurcation with a Specialized 16-Channel Phased Array Coil at 3T

PubMed Central

Tate, Quinn; Kim, Seong-Eun; Treiman, Gerald; Parker, Dennis L.; Hadley, J. Rock

2012-01-01

The purpose of this work was to design and construct a multi-channel receive-only RF coil for 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging of the human carotid artery and bifurcation with optimized signal to noise ratio in the carotid vessels along the full extent of the neck. A neck phantom designed to match the anatomy of a subject with a neck representing the body habitus often seen in subjects with carotid arterial disease, was constructed. Sixteen circular coil elements were arranged on a semi-rigid fiberglass former that closely fit the shape of the phantom, resulting in a 16-channel bilateral phased array coil. Comparisons were made between this coil and a typical 4-channel carotid coil in a study of 10 carotid vessels in 5 healthy volunteers. The 16-channel carotid coil showed a 73% average improvement in signal to noise ratio (SNR) at the carotid bifurcation. This coil also maintained an SNR greater than the peak SNR of the 4-channel coil over a vessel length of 10 cm. The resulting increase in SNR improved vessel depiction of the carotid arteries over an extended field of view, and demonstrated better image quality for higher parallel imaging reduction factors compared to the 4-channel coil. PMID:22777692

Geometrical Effects in Two-Dimensional Arrays of Josephson Junctions

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-05-01

Iot (4.3.4.b) dyd a .. s -f sin =o0 (4.3.4.c) ~r Tdr n snadrs where a, 13, and rare the gauge-invariant phase differences denoted in Fig. 4.8. If we...Receive Slit Coils *_ * Slit Set-screw / -Tr Drive Coil IDrive Leads if Coil Fig. 8.7. Schematic drawing of the two-coil mututal-inductance apparatus we

3D 1H MRSI of brain tumors at 3.0 Tesla using an eight-channel phased-array head coil.

PubMed

Osorio, Joseph A; Ozturk-Isik, Esin; Xu, Duan; Cha, Soonmee; Chang, Susan; Berger, Mitchel S; Vigneron, Daniel B; Nelson, Sarah J

2007-07-01

To implement proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (1H MRSI) at 3 Tesla (3T) using an eight-channel phased-array head coil in a population of brain-tumor patients. A total of 49 MRI/MRSI examinations were performed on seven volunteers and 34 patients on a 3T GE Signa EXCITE scanner using body coil excitation and reception with an eight-channel phased-array head coil. 1H MRSI was acquired using point-resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) volume selection and three-dimensional (3D) phase encoding using a 144-msec echo time (TE). The mean choline to N-acetyl aspartate ratio (Cho/NAA) was similar within regions of normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) in volunteers (0.5 +/- 0.04) and patients (0.6 +/- 0.1, P = 0.15). This ratio was significantly higher in regions of T2-hyperintensity lesion (T2L) relative to NAWM for patients (1.4 +/- 0.7, P = 0.001). The differences between metabolite intensities in lesions and NAWM were similar, but there was an increase in SNR of 1.95 when an eight-channel head coil was used at 3T vs. previous results at 1.5T. The realized increase in SNR means that clinically relevant data can be obtained in five to 10 minutes at 3T and used to predict the spatial extent of tumor in a manner similar to that previously used to acquire 1.5T data in 17 minutes. Copyright 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Radio frequency coil technology for small-animal MRI.

PubMed

Doty, F David; Entzminger, George; Kulkarni, Jatin; Pamarthy, Kranti; Staab, John P

2007-05-01

A review of the theory, technology, and use of radio frequency (RF) coils for small-animal MRI is presented. It includes a brief overview of MR signal-to-noise (S/N) analysis and discussions of the various coils commonly used in small-animal MR: surface coils, linear volume coils, birdcages, and their derivatives. The scope is limited to mid-range coils, i.e. coils where the product (fd) of the frequency f and the coil diameter d is in the range 2-30 MHz-m. Common applications include mouse brain and body coils from 125 to 750 MHz, rat body coils up to 500 MHz, and small surface coils at all fields. In this regime, all the sources of loss (coil, capacitor, sample, shield, and transmission lines) are important. All such losses may be accurately captured in some modern full-wave 3D electromagnetics software, and new simulation results are presented for a selection of surface coils using Microwave Studio 2006 by Computer Simulation Technology, showing the dramatic importance of the "lift-off effect". Standard linear circuit simulators have been shown to be useful in optimization of complex coil tuning and matching circuits. There appears to be considerable potential for trading S/N for speed using phased arrays, especially for a larger field of view. Circuit simulators are shown to be useful for optimal mismatching of ultra-low-noise preamps based on the enhancement-mode pseudomorphic high-electron-mobility transistor for optimal coil decoupling in phased arrays. Cryogenically cooled RF coils are shown to offer considerable opportunity for future gains in S/N in smaller samples.

Endoluminal MR-guided ultrasonic applicator embedding cylindrical phased-array transducers and opposed-solenoid detection coil.

PubMed

Rata, Mihaela; Birlea, Vlad; Murillo, Adriana; Paquet, Christian; Cotton, François; Salomir, Rares

2015-01-01

MR-guided high-intensity contact ultrasound (HICU) was suggested as an alternative therapy for esophageal and rectal cancer. To offer high-quality MR guidance, two prototypes of receive-only opposed-solenoid coil were integrated with 64-element cylindrical phased-array ultrasound transducers (rectal/esophageal). The design of integrated coils took into account the transducer geometry (360° acoustic window within endoluminal space). The rectal coil was sealed on a plastic support and placed reversibly on the transducer head. The esophageal coil was fully embedded within the transducer head, resulting in one indivisible device. Comparison of integrated versus external coils was performed on a clinical 1.5T scanner. The integrated coils showed higher sensitivity compared with the standard extracorporeal coil with factors of up to 7.5 (rectal applicator) and 3.3 (esophageal applicator). High-resolution MR images for both anatomy (voxel 0.4 × 0.4 × 5 mm(3)) and thermometry (voxel 0.75 × 0.75 × 8 mm(3), 2 s/image) were acquired in vivo with the rectal endoscopic device. The temperature feedback loop accurately controlled multiple control points over the region of interest. This study showed significant improvement of MR data quality using endoluminal integrated coils versus standard external coil. Inframillimeter spatial resolution and accurate feedback control of MR-guided HICU thermotherapy were achieved. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A broadband phased-array system for direct phosphorus and sodium metabolic MRI on a clinical scanner.

PubMed

Lee, R F; Giaquinto, R; Constantinides, C; Souza, S; Weiss, R G; Bottomley, P A

2000-02-01

Despite their proven gains in signal-to-noise ratio and field-of-view for routine clinical MRI, phased-array detection systems are currently unavailable for nuclei other than protons (1H). A broadband phased-array system was designed and built to convert the 1H transmitter signal to the non-1H frequency for excitation and to convert non-1H phased-array MRI signals to the 1H frequency for presentation to the narrowband 1H receivers of a clinical whole-body 1.5 T MRI system. With this system, the scanner operates at the 1H frequency, whereas phased-array MRI occurs at the frequency of the other nucleus. Pulse sequences were developed for direct phased-array sodium (23Na) and phosphorus (31P) MRI of high-energy phosphates using chemical selective imaging, thereby avoiding the complex processing and reconstruction required for phased-array magnetic resonance spectroscopy data. Flexible 4-channel 31P and 23Na phased-arrays were built and the entire system tested in phantom and human studies. The array produced a signal-to-noise ratio improvement of 20% relative to the best-positioned single coil, but gains of 300-400% were realized in many voxels located outside the effective field-of-view of the single coil. Cardiac phosphorus and sodium MRI were obtained in 6-13 min with 16 and 0.5 mL resolution, respectively. Lower resolution human cardiac 23Na MRI were obtained in as little as 4 sec. The system provides a practical approach to realizing the advantages of phased-arrays for nuclei other than 1H, and imaging metabolites directly.

MR imaging of the prostate at 3 Tesla: comparison of an external phased-array coil to imaging with an endorectal coil at 1.5 Tesla.

PubMed

Sosna, Jacob; Pedrosa, Ivan; Dewolf, William C; Mahallati, Houman; Lenkinski, Robert E; Rofsky, Neil M

2004-08-01

To qualitatively compare the image quality of torso phased-array 3-Tesla (3T) imaging of the prostate with that of endorectal 1.5-Tesla imaging. Twenty cases of torso phased-array prostate imaging performed at 3-Tesla with FSE T2 weighted images were evaluated by two readers independently for visualization of the posterior border (PB), seminal vesicles (SV), neurovascular bundles (NVB), and image quality rating (IQR). Studies were performed at large fields of view(FOV) (25 cm) (14 cases) (3TL) and smaller FOV (14 cm) (19 cases) (3TS). A comparison was made to 20 consecutive cases of 1.5-T endorectal evaluation performed during the same time period.Results. 3TL produced a significantly better image quality compared with the small FOV for PB (P = .0001), SV (P =.0001), and IQR (P = .0001). There was a marginally significant difference within the NVB category (P = .0535). 3TL produced an image of similar quality to image quality at 1.5 T for PB (P = .3893), SV (P = .8680), NB (P = .2684), and IQR (P = .8599). Prostate image quality at 3T with a torso phased-array coil can be comparable with that of endorectal 1.5-T imaging. These findings suggest that additional options are now available for magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate gland.

Partially orthogonal resonators for magnetic resonance imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chacon-Caldera, Jorge; Malzacher, Matthias; Schad, Lothar R.

2017-02-01

Resonators for signal reception in magnetic resonance are traditionally planar to restrict coil material and avoid coil losses. Here, we present a novel concept to model resonators partially in a plane with maximum sensitivity to the magnetic resonance signal and partially in an orthogonal plane with reduced signal sensitivity. Thus, properties of individual elements in coil arrays can be modified to optimize physical planar space and increase the sensitivity of the overall array. A particular case of the concept is implemented to decrease H-field destructive interferences in planar concentric in-phase arrays. An increase in signal to noise ratio of approximately 20% was achieved with two resonators placed over approximately the same planar area compared to common approaches at a target depth of 10 cm at 3 Tesla. Improved parallel imaging performance of this configuration is also demonstrated. The concept can be further used to increase coil density.

Extended arrays for nonlinear susceptibility magnitude imaging

PubMed Central

Ficko, Bradley W.; Giacometti, Paolo; Diamond, Solomon G.

2016-01-01

This study implements nonlinear susceptibility magnitude imaging (SMI) with multifrequency intermodulation and phase encoding. An imaging grid was constructed of cylindrical wells of 3.5-mm diameter and 4.2-mm height on a hexagonal two-dimensional 61-voxel pattern with 5-mm spacing. Patterns of sample wells were filled with 40-μl volumes of Fe3O4 starch-coated magnetic nanoparticles (mNPs) with a hydrodynamic diameter of 100 nm and a concentration of 25 mg/ml. The imaging hardware was configured with three excitation coils and three detection coils in anticipation that a larger imaging system will have arrays of excitation and detection coils. Hexagonal and bar patterns of mNP were successfully imaged (R2 > 0.9) at several orientations. This SMI demonstration extends our prior work to feature a larger coil array, enlarged field-of-view, effective phase encoding scheme, reduced mNP sample size, and more complex imaging patterns to test the feasibility of extending the method beyond the pilot scale. The results presented in this study show that nonlinear SMI holds promise for further development into a practical imaging system for medical applications. PMID:26124044

Resting-state networks in healthy adult subjects: a comparison between a 32-element and an 8-element phased array head coil at 3.0 Tesla.

PubMed

Paolini, Marco; Keeser, Daniel; Ingrisch, Michael; Werner, Natalie; Kindermann, Nicole; Reiser, Maximilian; Blautzik, Janusch

2015-05-01

Little research exists on the influence of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) head coil's channel count on measured resting-state functional connectivity. To compare a 32-element (32ch) and an 8-element (8ch) phased array head coil with respect to their potential to detect functional connectivity within resting-state networks. Twenty-six healthy adults (mean age, 21.7 years; SD, 2.1 years) underwent resting-state functional MRI at 3.0 Tesla with both coils using equal standard imaging parameters and a counterbalanced design. Independent component analysis (ICA) at different model orders and a dual regression approach were performed. Voxel-wise non-parametric statistical between-group contrasts were determined using permutation-based non-parametric inference. Phantom measurements demonstrated a generally higher image signal-to-noise ratio using the 32ch head coil. However, the results showed no significant differences between corresponding resting-state networks derived from both coils (p < 0.05, FWE-corrected). Using the identical standard acquisition parameters, the 32ch head coil does not offer any significant advantages in detecting ICA-based functional connectivity within RSNs. © The Foundation Acta Radiologica 2015 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

A superconducting large-angle magnetic suspension

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Downer, James R.; Anastas, George V., Jr.; Bushko, Dariusz A.; Flynn, Frederick J.; Goldie, James H.; Gondhalekar, Vijay; Hawkey, Timothy J.; Hockney, Richard L.; Torti, Richard P.

1992-01-01

SatCon Technology Corporation has completed a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 2 program to develop a Superconducting Large-Angle Magnetic Suspension (LAMS) for the NASA Langley Research Center. The Superconducting LAMS was a hardware demonstration of the control technology required to develop an advanced momentum exchange effector. The Phase 2 research was directed toward the demonstration for the key technology required for the advanced concept CMG, the controller. The Phase 2 hardware consists of a superconducting solenoid ('source coils') suspended within an array of nonsuperconducting coils ('control coils'), a five-degree-of-freedom positioning sensing system, switching power amplifiers, and a digital control system. The results demonstrated the feasibility of suspending the source coil. Gimballing (pointing the axis of the source coil) was demonstrated over a limited range. With further development of the rotation sensing system, enhanced angular freedom should be possible.

A superconducting large-angle magnetic suspension

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Downer, James R.; Anastas, George V., Jr.; Bushko, Dariusz A.; Flynn, Frederick J.; Goldie, James H.; Gondhalekar, Vijay; Hawkey, Timothy J.; Hockney, Richard L.; Torti, Richard P.

1992-12-01

SatCon Technology Corporation has completed a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 2 program to develop a Superconducting Large-Angle Magnetic Suspension (LAMS) for the NASA Langley Research Center. The Superconducting LAMS was a hardware demonstration of the control technology required to develop an advanced momentum exchange effector. The Phase 2 research was directed toward the demonstration for the key technology required for the advanced concept CMG, the controller. The Phase 2 hardware consists of a superconducting solenoid ('source coils') suspended within an array of nonsuperconducting coils ('control coils'), a five-degree-of-freedom positioning sensing system, switching power amplifiers, and a digital control system. The results demonstrated the feasibility of suspending the source coil. Gimballing (pointing the axis of the source coil) was demonstrated over a limited range. With further development of the rotation sensing system, enhanced angular freedom should be possible.

Cardiac cine imaging at 3 Tesla: initial experience with a 32-element body-array coil.

PubMed

Fenchel, Michael; Deshpande, Vibhas S; Nael, Kambiz; Finn, J Paul; Miller, Stephan; Ruehm, Stefan; Laub, Gerhard

2006-08-01

We sought to assess the feasibility of cardiac cine imaging and evaluate image quality at 3 T using a body-array coil with 32 coil elements. Eight healthy volunteers (3 men; median age 29 years) were examined on a 3-T magnetic resonance scanner (Magnetom Trio, Siemens Medical Solutions) using a 32-element phased-array coil (prototype from In vivo Corp.). Gradient-recalled-echo (GRE) cine (GRAPPAx3), GRE cine with tagging lines, steady-state-free-precession (SSFP) cine (GRAPPAx3 and x4), and SSFP cine(TSENSEx4 andx6) images were acquired in short-axis and 4-chamber view. Reference images with identical scan parameters were acquired using the total-imaging-matrix (Tim) coil system with a total of 12 coil elements. Images were assessed by 2 observers in a consensus reading with regard to image quality, noise and presence of artifacts. Furthermore, signal-to-noise values were determined in phantom measurements. In phantom measurements signal-to-noise values were increased by 115-155% for the various cine sequences using the 32-element coil. Scoring of image quality yielded statistically significant increased image quality with the SSFP-GRAPPAx4, SSFP-TSENSEx4, and SSFP-TSENSEx6 sequence using the 32-element coil (P < 0.05). Similarly, scoring of image noise yielded a statistically significant lower noise rating with the SSFP-GRAPPAx4, GRE-GRAPPAx3, SSFP-TSENSEx4, and SSFP-TSENSEx6 sequence using the 32-element coil (P < 0.05). This study shows that cardiac cine imaging at 3 T using a 32-element body-array coil is feasible in healthy volunteers. Using a large number of coil elements with a favorable sensitivity profile supports faster image acquisition, with high diagnostic image quality even for high parallel imaging factors.

Nonlocal maximum likelihood estimation method for denoising multiple-coil magnetic resonance images.

PubMed

Rajan, Jeny; Veraart, Jelle; Van Audekerke, Johan; Verhoye, Marleen; Sijbers, Jan

2012-12-01

Effective denoising is vital for proper analysis and accurate quantitative measurements from magnetic resonance (MR) images. Even though many methods were proposed to denoise MR images, only few deal with the estimation of true signal from MR images acquired with phased-array coils. If the magnitude data from phased array coils are reconstructed as the root sum of squares, in the absence of noise correlations and subsampling, the data is assumed to follow a non central-χ distribution. However, when the k-space is subsampled to increase the acquisition speed (as in GRAPPA like methods), noise becomes spatially varying. In this note, we propose a method to denoise multiple-coil acquired MR images. Both the non central-χ distribution and the spatially varying nature of the noise is taken into account in the proposed method. Experiments were conducted on both simulated and real data sets to validate and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of image quality of a 32-channel versus a 12-channel head coil at 1.5T for MR imaging of the brain.

PubMed

Parikh, P T; Sandhu, G S; Blackham, K A; Coffey, M D; Hsu, D; Liu, K; Jesberger, J; Griswold, M; Sunshine, J L

2011-02-01

Multichannel phased-array head coils are undergoing exponential escalation of coil element numbers. While previous technical studies have found gains in SNR and spatial resolution with the addition of element coils, it remains to be determined how these gains affect clinical reading. The purpose of this clinical study was to determine if the SNR and spatial resolution characteristics of a 32-channel head coil result in improvements in perceived image quality and lesion evaluation. Twenty-one patients underwent MR imaging of the brain at 1.5T sequentially with both a 12-channel and a 32-channel receive-only phased-array head coil. Axial T2WIs, T1WIs, FLAIR images, and DWIs were acquired. Anonymized images were compared side-by-side and by sequence for image quality, lesion evaluation, and artifacts by 3 neuroradiologists. Results of the comparison were analyzed for the preference for a specific head coil. FLAIR and DWI images acquired with the 32-channel coil showed significant improvement in image quality in several parameters. T2WIs also improved significantly with acquisition by the 32-channel coil, while T1WIs improved in a limited number of parameters. While lesion evaluation also improved with acquisition of images by the 32-channel coil, there was no apparent improvement in diagnostic quality. There was no difference in artifacts between the 2 coils. Improvements in SNR and spatial resolution attributed to image acquisition with a 32-channel head coil are paralleled by perceived improvements in image quality.

Image reconstruction: an overview for clinicians.

PubMed

Hansen, Michael S; Kellman, Peter

2015-03-01

Image reconstruction plays a critical role in the clinical use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The MRI raw data is not acquired in image space and the role of the image reconstruction process is to transform the acquired raw data into images that can be interpreted clinically. This process involves multiple signal processing steps that each have an impact on the image quality. This review explains the basic terminology used for describing and quantifying image quality in terms of signal-to-noise ratio and point spread function. In this context, several commonly used image reconstruction components are discussed. The image reconstruction components covered include noise prewhitening for phased array data acquisition, interpolation needed to reconstruct square pixels, raw data filtering for reducing Gibbs ringing artifacts, Fourier transforms connecting the raw data with image space, and phased array coil combination. The treatment of phased array coils includes a general explanation of parallel imaging as a coil combination technique. The review is aimed at readers with no signal processing experience and should enable them to understand what role basic image reconstruction steps play in the formation of clinical images and how the resulting image quality is described. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ultra-high field MRI for primate imaging using the travelling-wave concept.

PubMed

Mallow, Johannes; Herrmann, Tim; Kim, Kyoung-Nam; Stadler, Joerg; Mylius, Judith; Brosch, Michael; Bernarding, Johannes

2013-08-01

Ultra-high field (UHF) neuroimaging is usually conducted with volume transmit (Tx) and phased array receive (Rx) coils, both tightly enclosing the object. The travelling-wave (TW) concept allows a remote excitation offering more flexible experimental setups. To investigate the feasibility of primate MRI in horizontal UHF MRI, we first compared the distribution of the electromagnetic fields in an oil phantom and then verified the concept with an in vivo experiment. In the phantom experiments an in-house circularly polarized hybrid birdcage coil and a self-developed patch antenna were used for Tx and an eight-element phased array antenna for Rx. B1+ fields were calculated and measured for both approaches. For in vivo experiments the Rx part was replaced with an optimized three-element phased array head coil. The SAR was calculated using field simulation. In the phantom the field distribution was homogenous in a central volume of interest of about 10 cm diameter. The TW concept showed a slightly better homogeneity. Examination of a female crab-eating macaque led to homogeneous high-contrast images with a good delineation of anatomical details. The TW concept opens up a new approach for MRI of medium-sized animals in horizontal UHF scanners.

Design and Application of Combined 8-Channel Transmit and 10-Channel Receive Arrays and Radiofrequency Shimming for 7-T Shoulder Magnetic Resonance Imaging

PubMed Central

Brown, Ryan; Deniz, Cem Murat; Zhang, Bei; Chang, Gregory; Sodickson, Daniel K.; Wiggins, Graham C.

2014-01-01

Objective The objective of the study was to investigate the feasibility of 7-T shoulder magnetic resonance imaging by developing transmit and receive radiofrequency (RF) coil arrays and exploring RF shim methods. Materials and Methods A mechanically flexible 8-channel transmit array and an anatomically conformable 10-channel receive array were designed and implemented. The transmit performance of various RF shim methods was assessed through local flip angle measurements in the right and left shoulders of 6 subjects. The receive performance was assessed through signal-to-noise ratio measurements using the developed 7-T coil and a baseline commercial 3-T coil. Results The 7-T transmit array driven with phase-coherent RF shim weights provided adequate B1+ efficiency and uniformity for turbo spin echo shoulder imaging. B1+ twisting that is characteristic of high-field loop coils necessitates distinct RF shim weights in the right and left shoulders. The 7-T receive array provided a 2-fold signal-to-noise ratio improvement over the 3-T array in the deep articular shoulder cartilage. Conclusions Shoulder imaging at 7-T is feasible with a custom transmit/receive array either in a single-channel transmit mode with a fixed RF shim or in a parallel transmit mode with a subject-specific RF shim. PMID:24056112

Investigation of multichannel phased array performance for fetal MR imaging on 1.5T clinical MR system

PubMed Central

Li, Ye; Pang, Yong; Vigneron, Daniel; Glenn, Orit; Xu, Duan; Zhang, Xiaoliang

2011-01-01

Fetal MRI on 1.5T clinical scanner has been increasingly becoming a powerful imaging tool for studying fetal brain abnormalities in vivo. Due to limited availability of dedicated fetal phased arrays, commercial torso or cardiac phased arrays are routinely used for fetal scans, which are unable to provide optimized SNR and parallel imaging performance with a small number coil elements, and insufficient coverage and filling factor. This poses a demand for the investigation and development of dedicated and efficient radiofrequency (RF) hardware to improve fetal imaging. In this work, an investigational approach to simulate the performance of multichannel flexible phased arrays is proposed to find a better solution to fetal MR imaging. A 32 channel fetal array is presented to increase coil sensitivity, coverage and parallel imaging performance. The electromagnetic field distribution of each element of the fetal array is numerically simulated by using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The array performance, including B1 coverage, parallel reconstructed images and artifact power, is then theoretically calculated and compared with the torso array. Study results show that the proposed array is capable of increasing B1 field strength as well as sensitivity homogeneity in the entire area of uterus. This would ensure high quality imaging regardless of the location of the fetus in the uterus. In addition, the paralleling imaging performance of the proposed fetal array is validated by using artifact power comparison with torso array. These results demonstrate the feasibility of the 32 channel flexible array for fetal MR imaging at 1.5T. PMID:22408747

Comprehensive Survey on Improved Focality and Penetration Depth of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Employing Multi-Coil Arrays.

PubMed

Wei, Xile; Li, Yao; Lu, Meili; Wang, Jiang; Yi, Guosheng

2017-11-14

Multi-coil arrays applied in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) are proposed to accurately stimulate brain tissues and modulate neural activities by an induced electric field (EF). Composed of numerous independently driven coils, a multi-coil array has alternative energizing strategies to evoke EFs targeting at different cerebral regions. To improve the locating resolution and the stimulating focality, we need to fully understand the variation properties of induced EFs and the quantitative control method of the spatial arrangement of activating coils, both of which unfortunately are still unclear. In this paper, a comprehensive analysis of EF properties was performed based on multi-coil arrays. Four types of planar multi-coil arrays were used to study the relationship between the spatial distribution of EFs and the structure of stimuli coils. By changing coil-driven strategies in a basic 16-coil array, we find that an EF induced by compactly distributed coils decays faster than that induced by dispersedly distributed coils, but the former has an advantage over the latter in terms of the activated brain volume. Simulation results also indicate that the attenuation rate of an EF induced by the 36-coil dense array is 3 times and 1.5 times greater than those induced by the 9-coil array and the 16-coil array, respectively. The EF evoked by the 36-coil dispense array has the slowest decay rate. This result demonstrates that larger multi-coil arrays, compared to smaller ones, activate deeper brain tissues at the expense of decreased focality. A further study on activating a specific field of a prescribed shape and size was conducted based on EF variation. Accurate target location was achieved with a 64-coil array 18 mm in diameter. A comparison between the figure-8 coil, the planar array, and the cap-formed array was made and demonstrates an improvement of multi-coil configurations in the penetration depth and the focality. These findings suggest that there is a tradeoff between attenuation rate and focality in the application of multi-coil arrays. Coil-energizing strategies and array dimensions should be based on an adequate evaluation of these two important demands and the topological structure of target tissues.

Accelerated proton echo planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI) using GRAPPA with a 32-channel phased-array coil.

PubMed

Tsai, Shang-Yueh; Otazo, Ricardo; Posse, Stefan; Lin, Yi-Ru; Chung, Hsiao-Wen; Wald, Lawrence L; Wiggins, Graham C; Lin, Fa-Hsuan

2008-05-01

Parallel imaging has been demonstrated to reduce the encoding time of MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI). Here we investigate up to 5-fold acceleration of 2D proton echo planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI) at 3T using generalized autocalibrating partial parallel acquisition (GRAPPA) with a 32-channel coil array, 1.5 cm(3) voxel size, TR/TE of 15/2000 ms, and 2.1 Hz spectral resolution. Compared to an 8-channel array, the smaller RF coil elements in this 32-channel array provided a 3.1-fold and 2.8-fold increase in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the peripheral region and the central region, respectively, and more spatial modulated information. Comparison of sensitivity-encoding (SENSE) and GRAPPA reconstruction using an 8-channel array showed that both methods yielded similar quantitative metabolite measures (P > 0.1). Concentration values of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), total creatine (tCr), choline (Cho), myo-inositol (mI), and the sum of glutamate and glutamine (Glx) for both methods were consistent with previous studies. Using the 32-channel array coil the mean Cramer-Rao lower bounds (CRLB) were less than 8% for NAA, tCr, and Cho and less than 15% for mI and Glx at 2-fold acceleration. At 4-fold acceleration the mean CRLB for NAA, tCr, and Cho was less than 11%. In conclusion, the use of a 32-channel coil array and GRAPPA reconstruction can significantly reduce the measurement time for mapping brain metabolites. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

B1- non-uniformity correction of phased-array coils without measuring coil sensitivity.

PubMed

Damen, Frederick C; Cai, Kejia

2018-04-18

Parallel imaging can be used to increase SNR and shorten acquisition times, albeit, at the cost of image non-uniformity. B 1 - non-uniformity correction techniques are confounded by signal that varies not only due to coil induced B 1 - sensitivity variation, but also the object's own intrinsic signal. Herein, we propose a method that makes minimal assumptions and uses only the coil images themselves to produce a single combined B 1 - non-uniformity-corrected complex image with the highest available SNR. A novel background noise classifier is used to select voxels of sufficient quality to avoid the need for regularization. Unique properties of the magnitude and phase were used to reduce the B 1 - sensitivity to two joint additive models for estimation of the B 1 - inhomogeneity. The complementary corruption of the imaged object across the coil images is used to abate individual coil correction imperfections. Results are presented from two anatomical cases: (a) an abdominal image that is challenging in both extreme B 1 - sensitivity and intrinsic tissue signal variation, and (b) a brain image with moderate B 1 - sensitivity and intrinsic tissue signal variation. A new relative Signal-to-Noise Ratio (rSNR) quality metric is proposed to evaluate the performance of the proposed method and the RF receiving coil array. The proposed method has been shown to be robust to imaged objects with widely inhomogeneous intrinsic signal, and resilient to poorly performing coil elements. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Power balance and loss mechanism analysis in RF transmit coil arrays.

PubMed

Kuehne, Andre; Goluch, Sigrun; Waxmann, Patrick; Seifert, Frank; Ittermann, Bernd; Moser, Ewald; Laistler, Elmar

2015-10-01

To establish a framework for transmit array power balance calculations based on power correlation matrices to accurately quantify the loss contributions from different mechanisms such as coupling, lumped components, and radiation. Starting from Poynting's theorem, power correlation matrices are derived for all terms in the power balance, which is formulated as a matrix equation. Finite-difference time-domain simulations of two 7 T eight-channel head array coils at 297.2 MHz are used to verify the theoretical considerations and demonstrate their application. Care is taken to accurately incorporate all loss mechanisms. The power balance for static B1 phase shims as well as two-dimensional spatially selective transmit SENSE pulses is shown. The simulated power balance shows an excellent agreement with theory, with a maximum power imbalance of less than 0.11%. Power loss contributions from the different loss mechanisms vary significantly between the investigated setups, and depending on the excitation mode imposed on the coil. The presented approach enables a straightforward loss evaluation for an arbitrary excitation of transmit coil arrays. Worst-case power imbalance and losses are calculated in a straightforward manner. This allows for deeper insight into transmit array loss mechanisms, incorporation of radiated power components in specific absorption rate calculations and verification of electromagnetic simulations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Intensity non-uniformity correction using N3 on 3-T scanners with multichannel phased array coils

PubMed Central

Boyes, Richard G.; Gunter, Jeff L.; Frost, Chris; Janke, Andrew L.; Yeatman, Thomas; Hill, Derek L.G.; Bernstein, Matt A.; Thompson, Paul M.; Weiner, Michael W.; Schuff, Norbert; Alexander, Gene E.; Killiany, Ronald J.; DeCarli, Charles; Jack, Clifford R.; Fox, Nick C.

2008-01-01

Measures of structural brain change based on longitudinal MR imaging are increasingly important but can be degraded by intensity non-uniformity. This non-uniformity can be more pronounced at higher field strengths, or when using multichannel receiver coils. We assessed the ability of the non-parametric non-uniform intensity normalization (N3) technique to correct non-uniformity in 72 volumetric brain MR scans from the preparatory phase of the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). Normal elderly subjects (n = 18) were scanned on different 3-T scanners with a multichannel phased array receiver coil at baseline, using magnetization prepared rapid gradient echo (MP-RAGE) and spoiled gradient echo (SPGR) pulse sequences, and again 2 weeks later. When applying N3, we used five brain masks of varying accuracy and four spline smoothing distances (d = 50, 100, 150 and 200 mm) to ascertain which combination of parameters optimally reduces the non-uniformity. We used the normalized white matter intensity variance (standard deviation/mean) to ascertain quantitatively the correction for a single scan; we used the variance of the normalized difference image to assess quantitatively the consistency of the correction over time from registered scan pairs. Our results showed statistically significant (p < 0.01) improvement in uniformity for individual scans and reduction in the normalized difference image variance when using masks that identified distinct brain tissue classes, and when using smaller spline smoothing distances (e.g., 50-100 mm) for both MP-RAGE and SPGR pulse sequences. These optimized settings may assist future large-scale studies where 3-T scanners and phased array receiver coils are used, such as ADNI, so that intensity non-uniformity does not influence the power of MR imaging to detect disease progression and the factors that influence it. PMID:18063391

Cryogenic phased-array for high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); assessment of clinical and research applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ip, Flora S.

Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging is one of the most powerful tools in diagnostic medicine for soft tissue imaging. Image acquisition techniques and hardware receivers are very important in achieving high contrast and high resolution MR images. An aim of this dissertation is to design single and multi-element room and cryogenic temperature arrays and make assessments of their signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and SNR gain. In this dissertation, four sets of MR receiver coils are built. They are the receiver-only cryo-coils that are not commercially available. A tuning and matching circuit is attached to each coil. The tuning and matching circuits are simple; however, each device component has to operate at a high magnetic field and cryogenic temperature environment. Remote DC bias of the varactor controls the tuning and matching outside the scanner room. Active detuning of the resonator is done by two p-i-n junction (PIN) diodes. Cooling of the receiver is done by a customized liquid nitrogen cryostat. The first application is to build a 3-Tesla 2x1 horseshoe counter-rotating current (CRC) cryogenic array to image the tibia in a human body. With significant increase in SNR, the surface coil should deliver high contrast and resolution images that can show the trabecular bone and bone marrow structure. This structural image will be used to model the mechanical strength of the bone as well as bone density and chance of fracture. The planar CRC is a unique design of this surface array. The second application is to modify the coil design to 7-Tesla to study the growth of infant rhesus monkey eyes. Fast scan MR images of the infant monkey heads are taken for monitoring shapes of their eyeballs. The monkeys are induced with shortsightedness by eye lenses, and they are scanned periodically to get images of their eyeballs. The field-of-view (FOV) of these images is about five centimeters and the area of interest is two centimeters deep from the surface. Because of these reasons, the MR counter-rotating current coil is sufficient and demonstrated its simplicity over a phased array in this application.

Highly accelerated acquisition and homogeneous image reconstruction with rotating RF coil array at 7T-A phantom based study.

PubMed

Li, Mingyan; Zuo, Zhentao; Jin, Jin; Xue, Rong; Trakic, Adnan; Weber, Ewald; Liu, Feng; Crozier, Stuart

2014-03-01

Parallel imaging (PI) is widely used for imaging acceleration by means of coil spatial sensitivities associated with phased array coils (PACs). By employing a time-division multiplexing technique, a single-channel rotating radiofrequency coil (RRFC) provides an alternative method to reduce scan time. Strategically combining these two concepts could provide enhanced acceleration and efficiency. In this work, the imaging acceleration ability and homogeneous image reconstruction strategy of 4-element rotating radiofrequency coil array (RRFCA) was numerically investigated and experimental validated at 7T with a homogeneous phantom. Each coil of RRFCA was capable of acquiring a large number of sensitivity profiles, leading to a better acceleration performance illustrated by the improved geometry-maps that have lower maximum values and more uniform distributions compared to 4- and 8-element stationary arrays. A reconstruction algorithm, rotating SENSitivity Encoding (rotating SENSE), was proposed to provide image reconstruction. Additionally, by optimally choosing the angular sampling positions and transmit profiles under the rotating scheme, phantom images could be faithfully reconstructed. The results indicate that, the proposed technique is able to provide homogeneous reconstructions with overall higher and more uniform signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) distributions at high reduction factors. It is hoped that, by employing the high imaging acceleration and homogeneous imaging reconstruction ability of RRFCA, the proposed method will facilitate human imaging for ultra high field MRI. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inductively coupled wireless RF coil arrays.

PubMed

Bulumulla, S B; Fiveland, E; Park, K J; Foo, T K; Hardy, C J

2015-04-01

As the number of coils increases in multi-channel MRI receiver-coil arrays, RF cables and connectors become increasingly bulky and heavy, degrading patient comfort and slowing workflow. Inductive coupling of signals provides an attractive "wireless" approach, with the potential to reduce coil weight and cost while simplifying patient setup. In this work, multi-channel inductively coupled anterior arrays were developed and characterized for 1.5T imaging. These comprised MR receiver coils inductively (or "wirelessly") linked to secondary or "sniffer" coils whose outputs were transmitted via preamps to the MR system cabinet. The induced currents in the imaging coils were blocked by passive diode circuits during RF transmit. The imaging arrays were totally passive, obviating the need to deliver power to the coils, and providing lightweight, untethered signal reception with easily positioned coils. Single-shot fast spin echo images were acquired from 5 volunteers using a 7-element inductively coupled coil array and a conventionally cabled 7-element coil array of identical geometry, with the inductively-coupled array showing a relative signal-to-noise ratio of 0.86 +/- 0.07. The concept was extended to a larger 9-element coil array to demonstrate the effect of coil element size on signal transfer and RF-transmit blocking. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

MR imaging of the inner ear: comparison of a three-dimensional fast spin-echo sequence with use of a dedicated quadrature-surface coil with a gadolinium-enhanced spoiled gradient-recalled sequence.

PubMed

Naganawa, S; Ito, T; Fukatsu, H; Ishigaki, T; Nakashima, T; Ichinose, N; Kassai, Y; Miyazaki, M

1998-09-01

To prospectively evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the inner ear with a long echo train, three-dimensional (3D), asymmetric Fourier-transform, fast spin-echo (SE) sequence with use of a dedicated quadrature-surface phased-array coil to detect vestibular schwannoma in the cerebellopontine angle and the internal auditory canal. In 205 patients (410 ears) with ear symptoms, 1.5-T MR imaging was performed with unenhanced 3D asymmetric fast SE and gadolinium-enhanced 3D gradient-recalled (SPGR) sequences with use of a quadrature surface phased-array coil. The 3D asymmetric fast SE images were reviewed by two radiologists, with the gadolinium-enhanced 3D SPGR images used as the standard of reference. Nineteen lesions were detected in the 410 ears (diameter range, 2-30 mm; mean, 10.5 mm +/- 6.4 [standard deviation]; five lesions were smaller than 5 mm). With 3D asymmetric fast SE, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, respectively, were 100%, 99.5%, and 99.5% for observer 1 and 100%, 99.7%, and 99.8% for observer 2. The unenhanced 3D asymmetric fast SE sequence with a quadrature-surface phased-array coli allows the reliable detection of vestibular schwannoma in the cerebellopontine angle and internal auditory canal.

Proposed radiofrequency phased-array excitation scheme for homogenous and localized 7-Tesla whole-body imaging based on full-wave numerical simulations.

PubMed

Abraham, Roney; Ibrahim, Tamer S

2007-02-01

In this article, a radiofrequency (RF) excitation scheme for 7-Tesla (T) whole-body applications is derived and analyzed using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method. Important features of the proposed excitation scheme and coil (a potential 7T whole-body transverse electromagnetic [TEM] resonator design), from both operational and electromagnetic perspectives, are discussed. The choice of the coil's operational mode is unconventional; instead of the typical "homogenous mode," we use a mode that provides a null field in the center of the coil at low-field applications. Using a 3D FDTD implementation of Maxwell's equations, we demonstrate that the whole-body 7T TEM coil (tuned to the aforementioned unconventional mode and excited in an optimized near-field, phased-array fashion) can potentially provide 1) homogenous whole-slice (demonstrated in three axial, sagittal, and coronal slices) and 2) 3D localized (demonstrated in the heart) excitations. As RF power was not considered as a part of the optimization in several cases, the significant improvements achieved by whole-slice RF excitation came at the cost of considerable increases in RF power requirements. Copyright (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

A 32-channel lattice transmission line array for parallel transmit and receive MRI at 7 tesla.

PubMed

Adriany, Gregor; Auerbach, Edward J; Snyder, Carl J; Gözübüyük, Ark; Moeller, Steen; Ritter, Johannes; Van de Moortele, Pierre-François; Vaughan, Tommy; Uğurbil, Kâmil

2010-06-01

Transmit and receive RF coil arrays have proven to be particularly beneficial for ultra-high-field MR. Transmit coil arrays enable such techniques as B(1) (+) shimming to substantially improve transmit B(1) homogeneity compared to conventional volume coil designs, and receive coil arrays offer enhanced parallel imaging performance and SNR. Concentric coil arrangements hold promise for developing transceiver arrays incorporating large numbers of coil elements. At magnetic field strengths of 7 tesla and higher where the Larmor frequencies of interest can exceed 300 MHz, the coil array design must also overcome the problem of the coil conductor length approaching the RF wavelength. In this study, a novel concentric arrangement of resonance elements built from capacitively-shortened half-wavelength transmission lines is presented. This approach was utilized to construct an array with whole-brain coverage using 16 transceiver elements and 16 receive-only elements, resulting in a coil with a total of 16 transmit and 32 receive channels. (c) 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

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Direct matching methods for coils and preamplifiers in MRI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Xueming; Fischer, Elmar; Hennig, Jürgen; Zaitsev, Maxim

2018-05-01

In this paper, direct matching methods for coils and preamplifiers in receiver arrays are presented. Instead of compensating the reactance of the input impedance of preamplifiers, in our method, the reactance was used to resonate with the coil matching networks and thus to decouple the coils. Furthermore, coil matching networks and preamplifier input matching networks were combined, meaning the coil loop can be matched to the transistor in the preamplifier directly. These matching methods and, for comparison, the conventional matching method were implemented with custom-made preamplifiers and coils. Decoupling and noise-matching performance were compared between these three configurations. Phase shifting networks between coils and preamplifiers are not necessary in our matching methods. With fewer components, these matching networks showed lower noise factors, while similar preamplifier-decoupling performance was found for all three methods.

MRI dynamic range and its compatibility with signal transmission media

PubMed Central

Gabr, Refaat E.; Schär, Michael; Edelstein, Arthur D.; Kraitchman, Dara L.; Bottomley, Paul A.; Edelstein, William A.

2010-01-01

As the number of MRI phased array coil elements grows, interactions among cables connecting them to the system receiver become increasingly problematic. Fiber optic or wireless links would reduce electromagnetic interference, but their dynamic range (DR) is generally less than that of coaxial cables. Raw MRI signals, however, have a large DR because of the high signal amplitude near the center of k-space. Here, we study DR in MRI in order to determine the compatibility of MRI multicoil imaging with non-coaxial cable signal transmission. Since raw signal data are routinely discarded, we have developed an improved method for estimating the DR of MRI signals from conventional magnitude images. Our results indicate that the DR of typical surface coil signals at 3 T for human subjects is less than 88 dB, even for three-dimensional acquisition protocols. Cardiac and spine coil arrays had a maximum DR of less than 75 dB and head coil arrays less than 88 dB. The DR derived from magnitude images is in good agreement with that measured from raw data. The results suggest that current analog fiber optic links, with a spurious-free DR of 60–70 dB at 500 kHz bandwidth, are not by themselves adequate for transmitting MRI data from volume or array coils with DR ~90 dB. However, combining analog links with signal compression might make non-coaxial cable signal transmission viable. PMID:19251444

MRI dynamic range and its compatibility with signal transmission media.

PubMed

Gabr, Refaat E; Schär, Michael; Edelstein, Arthur D; Kraitchman, Dara L; Bottomley, Paul A; Edelstein, William A

2009-06-01

As the number of MRI phased array coil elements grows, interactions among cables connecting them to the system receiver become increasingly problematic. Fiber optic or wireless links would reduce electromagnetic interference, but their dynamic range (DR) is generally less than that of coaxial cables. Raw MRI signals, however, have a large DR because of the high signal amplitude near the center of k-space. Here, we study DR in MRI in order to determine the compatibility of MRI multicoil imaging with non-coaxial cable signal transmission. Since raw signal data are routinely discarded, we have developed an improved method for estimating the DR of MRI signals from conventional magnitude images. Our results indicate that the DR of typical surface coil signals at 3T for human subjects is less than 88 dB, even for three-dimensional acquisition protocols. Cardiac and spine coil arrays had a maximum DR of less than 75 dB and head coil arrays less than 88 dB. The DR derived from magnitude images is in good agreement with that measured from raw data. The results suggest that current analog fiber optic links, with a spurious-free DR of 60-70 dB at 500 kHz bandwidth, are not by themselves adequate for transmitting MRI data from volume or array coils with DR approximately 90 dB. However, combining analog links with signal compression might make non-coaxial cable signal transmission viable.

Four-channel surface coil array for sequential CW-EPR image acquisition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Enomoto, Ayano; Emoto, Miho; Fujii, Hirotada; Hirata, Hiroshi

2013-09-01

This article describes a four-channel surface coil array to increase the area of visualization for continuous-wave electron paramagnetic resonance (CW-EPR) imaging. A 776-MHz surface coil array was constructed with four independent surface coil resonators and three kinds of switches. Control circuits for switching the resonators were also built to sequentially perform EPR image acquisition for each resonator. The resonance frequencies of the resonators were shifted using PIN diode switches to decouple the inductively coupled coils. To investigate the area of visualization with the surface coil array, three-dimensional EPR imaging was performed using a glass cell phantom filled with a solution of nitroxyl radicals. The area of visualization obtained with the surface coil array was increased approximately 3.5-fold in comparison to that with a single surface coil resonator. Furthermore, to demonstrate the applicability of this surface coil array to animal imaging, three-dimensional EPR imaging was performed in a living mouse with an exogenously injected nitroxyl radical imaging agent.

Apparatus and method for reducing inductive coupling between levitation and drive coils within a magnetic propulsion system

DOEpatents

Post, Richard F.

2001-01-01

An apparatus and method is disclosed for reducing inductive coupling between levitation and drive coils within a magnetic levitation system. A pole array has a magnetic field. A levitation coil is positioned so that in response to motion of the magnetic field of the pole array a current is induced in the levitation coil. A first drive coil having a magnetic field coupled to drive the pole array also has a magnetic flux which induces a parasitic current in the levitation coil. A second drive coil having a magnetic field is positioned to attenuate the parasitic current in the levitation coil by canceling the magnetic flux of the first drive coil which induces the parasitic current. Steps in the method include generating a magnetic field with a pole array for levitating an object; inducing current in a levitation coil in response to motion of the magnetic field of the pole array; generating a magnetic field with a first drive coil for propelling the object; and generating a magnetic field with a second drive coil for attenuating effects of the magnetic field of the first drive coil on the current in the levitation coil.

Radial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using a rotating radiofrequency (RF) coil at 9.4 T.

PubMed

Li, Mingyan; Weber, Ewald; Jin, Jin; Hugger, Thimo; Tesiram, Yasvir; Ullmann, Peter; Stark, Simon; Fuentes, Miguel; Junge, Sven; Liu, Feng; Crozier, Stuart

2018-02-01

The rotating radiofrequency coil (RRFC) has been developed recently as an alternative approach to multi-channel phased-array coils. The single-element RRFC avoids inter-channel coupling and allows a larger coil element with better B 1 field penetration when compared with an array counterpart. However, dedicated image reconstruction algorithms require accurate estimation of temporally varying coil sensitivities to remove artefacts caused by coil rotation. Various methods have been developed to estimate unknown sensitivity profiles from a few experimentally measured sensitivity maps, but these methods become problematic when the RRFC is used as a transceiver coil. In this work, a novel and practical radial encoding method is introduced for the RRFC to facilitate image reconstruction without the measurement or estimation of rotation-dependent sensitivity profiles. Theoretical analyses suggest that the rotation-dependent sensitivities of the RRFC can be used to create a uniform profile with careful choice of sampling positions and imaging parameters. To test this new imaging method, dedicated electronics were designed and built to control the RRFC speed and hence positions in synchrony with imaging parameters. High-quality phantom and animal images acquired on a 9.4 T pre-clinical scanner demonstrate the feasibility and potential of this new RRFC method. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

RF surface receive array coils: the art of an LC circuit.

PubMed

Fujita, Hiroyuki; Zheng, Tsinghua; Yang, Xiaoyu; Finnerty, Matthew J; Handa, Shinya

2013-07-01

The radiofrequency (RF) receive array coil is a complicated device with many inductors and capacitors and serves as one of the most critical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) electronic devices. It directly determines the achievable level of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Simply put, however, the RF coil is nothing but an LC circuit. The receive array coil was first proposed more than 20 years ago, evolving from a simple arrangement with a few electronic channels to a complicated system of 128 channels, enabling highly sophisticated parallel imaging, at different field strengths. This article summarizes the basic concepts pertaining to RF receive coil arrays and their associated SNR and reviews the theories behind the major components of such arrays. This includes discussions of the intrinsic SNR of a receive coil, the matching circuits, low-noise preamplifiers, coupling/decoupling amongst coils, the coupling between receive and transmit coils, decoupling via preamplifiers, and baluns. An 8-channel receive array coil on a cylindrical former serves as a useful example for demonstrating various points in the review. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Solis, S. E.; Centro de Investigacion e Instrumentacion e Imagenologia Medica, Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, Mexico, DF 09340; Hernandez, J. A.

Arrays of antennas have been widely accepted for magnetic resonance imaging applications due to their high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) over large volumes of interest. A new surface coil based on the magnetron tube and called slotted surface coil, has been recently introduced by our group. This coil design experimentally demonstrated a significant improvement over the circular-shaped coil when used in the receive-only mode. The slotted coils formed a two-sheet structure with a 90 deg. separation and each coil had 6 circular slots. Numerical simulations were performed using the finite element method for this coil design to study the behaviour ofmore » the array magnetic field. Then, we developed a two-coil array for brain magnetic resonance imaging to be operated at the resonant frequency of 170 MHz in the transceiver mode. Phantom images were acquired with our coil array and standard pulse sequences on a research-dedicated 4 Tesla scanner. Numerical simulations demonstrated that electromagnetic interaction between the coil elements is negligible, and that the magnetic field showed a good uniformity. In vitro images showed the feasibility of this coil array for standard pulses for high field magnetic resonance imaging.« less

In vivo sensitivity estimation and imaging acceleration with rotating RF coil arrays at 7 Tesla.

PubMed

Li, Mingyan; Jin, Jin; Zuo, Zhentao; Liu, Feng; Trakic, Adnan; Weber, Ewald; Zhuo, Yan; Xue, Rong; Crozier, Stuart

2015-03-01

Using a new rotating SENSitivity Encoding (rotating-SENSE) algorithm, we have successfully demonstrated that the rotating radiofrequency coil array (RRFCA) was capable of achieving a significant reduction in scan time and a uniform image reconstruction for a homogeneous phantom at 7 Tesla. However, at 7 Tesla the in vivo sensitivity profiles (B1(-)) become distinct at various angular positions. Therefore, sensitivity maps at other angular positions cannot be obtained by numerically rotating the acquired ones. In this work, a novel sensitivity estimation method for the RRFCA was developed and validated with human brain imaging. This method employed a library database and registration techniques to estimate coil sensitivity at an arbitrary angular position. The estimated sensitivity maps were then compared to the acquired sensitivity maps. The results indicate that the proposed method is capable of accurately estimating both magnitude and phase of sensitivity at an arbitrary angular position, which enables us to employ the rotating-SENSE algorithm to accelerate acquisition and reconstruct image. Compared to a stationary coil array with the same number of coil elements, the RRFCA was able to reconstruct images with better quality at a high reduction factor. It is hoped that the proposed rotation-dependent sensitivity estimation algorithm and the acceleration ability of the RRFCA will be particularly useful for ultra high field MRI. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

In vivo sensitivity estimation and imaging acceleration with rotating RF coil arrays at 7 Tesla

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Mingyan; Jin, Jin; Zuo, Zhentao; Liu, Feng; Trakic, Adnan; Weber, Ewald; Zhuo, Yan; Xue, Rong; Crozier, Stuart

2015-03-01

Using a new rotating SENSitivity Encoding (rotating-SENSE) algorithm, we have successfully demonstrated that the rotating radiofrequency coil array (RRFCA) was capable of achieving a significant reduction in scan time and a uniform image reconstruction for a homogeneous phantom at 7 Tesla. However, at 7 Tesla the in vivo sensitivity profiles (B1-) become distinct at various angular positions. Therefore, sensitivity maps at other angular positions cannot be obtained by numerically rotating the acquired ones. In this work, a novel sensitivity estimation method for the RRFCA was developed and validated with human brain imaging. This method employed a library database and registration techniques to estimate coil sensitivity at an arbitrary angular position. The estimated sensitivity maps were then compared to the acquired sensitivity maps. The results indicate that the proposed method is capable of accurately estimating both magnitude and phase of sensitivity at an arbitrary angular position, which enables us to employ the rotating-SENSE algorithm to accelerate acquisition and reconstruct image. Compared to a stationary coil array with the same number of coil elements, the RRFCA was able to reconstruct images with better quality at a high reduction factor. It is hoped that the proposed rotation-dependent sensitivity estimation algorithm and the acceleration ability of the RRFCA will be particularly useful for ultra high field MRI.

A geometrically adjustable receive array for imaging marmoset cohorts.

PubMed

Gilbert, Kyle M; Gati, Joseph S; Klassen, L Martyn; Zeman, Peter; Schaeffer, David J; Everling, Stefan; Menon, Ravi S

2017-08-01

The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is an increasingly popular animal model for translational neuroscience studies, during which anatomical and functional MRI can be useful investigative tools. To attain the requisite SNR for high-resolution acquisitions, the radiofrequency coil must be optimized for the marmoset; however, relatively few custom coils have been developed that maximize SNR and are compatible with accelerated acquisitions. For the study of large populations of animals, the heterogeneity in animal size reduces the effectiveness of a "one size fits all" approach to coil sizing and makes coils tailored to individual animals cost and time prohibitive. The approach taken in this study was to create an 8-channel phased-array receive coil that was adjustable to the width of the marmoset head, thereby negating the need for tailored coils while still maintaining high SNR. Two marmosets of different size were imaged on a 9.4-T small-animal scanner. Consistent SNR was achieved in the periphery of the brain between head sizes. When compared to a 15-channel, "one size fits all" receive coil, the adjustable coil achieved 57% higher SNR in the superior frontal and parietal cortices and 29% higher SNR in the centre of the brain. The mean geometry factor of the adjustable coil was less than 1.2 for a 2-fold reduction factor in the left-right and anterior-posterior directions. Geometry factors were compared to the 15-channel coil to guide future designs. The adjustable coil was shown to be a practical means for anatomical and echo-planar imaging of marmoset cohorts. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Frequency-difference MIT imaging of cerebral haemorrhage with a hemispherical coil array: numerical modelling.

PubMed

Zolgharni, M; Griffiths, H; Ledger, P D

2010-08-01

The feasibility of detecting a cerebral haemorrhage with a hemispherical MIT coil array consisting of 56 exciter/sensor coils of 10 mm radius and operating at 1 and 10 MHz was investigated. A finite difference method combined with an anatomically realistic head model comprising 12 tissue types was used to simulate the strokes. Frequency-difference images were reconstructed from the modelled data with different levels of the added phase noise and two types of a priori boundary errors: a displacement of the head and a size scaling error. The results revealed that a noise level of 3 m degrees (standard deviation) was adequate for obtaining good visualization of a peripheral stroke (volume approximately 49 ml). The simulations further showed that the displacement error had to be within 3-4 mm and the scaling error within 3-4% so as not to cause unacceptably large artefacts on the images.

[Multiparametric 3T MRI in the routine staging of prostate cancer].

PubMed

Largeron, J P; Galonnier, F; Védrine, N; Alfidja, A; Boyer, L; Pereira, B; Boiteux, J P; Kemeny, J L; Guy, L

2014-03-01

To analyse the detection ability of a multiparametric 3T MRI with phased-array coil in comparison with the pathological data provided by the prostatectomy specimens. Prospective study of 30 months, including 74 patients for whom a diagnosis of prostate cancer had been made on randomized prostate biopsies, and all eligible to a radical prostatectomy. They all underwent multiparametric 3T MRI with pelvic phased-array coil including T2-weighted imaging (T2W), dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) with an ADC mapping. Each gland was divided in octants. Three specific criteria have been sought (detection ability, capsular contact [CC] and extracapsular extension [ECE]), in comparison with the pathological data provided by the prostatectomy specimens. Five hundred and ninety-two octants were considered with 124 significant tumors (volume ≥ 0.1cm(3)). The general ability of tumor detection had a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV respectively to 72.3%, 87.4%, 83.2% and 78.5%. The estimate of the CC and ECE had a high negative predictive power with specificities and VPN respectively to 96.4% and 95.4% for CC, and 97.5 and 97.7% for ECE. Multiparametric 3T MRI with pelvic phased-array coil appeared to be a reliable imaging technique in clinical and routine practice for the detection of localized prostate cancer. Estimation of the CC and millimeter ECE remains to be clarified, even if the negative predictive power for these parameters seems encouraging. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

An 8-channel transceiver 7-channel receive RF coil setup for high SNR ultrahigh-field MRI of the shoulder at 7T.

PubMed

Rietsch, Stefan H G; Pfaffenrot, Viktor; Bitz, Andreas K; Orzada, Stephan; Brunheim, Sascha; Lazik-Palm, Andrea; Theysohn, Jens M; Ladd, Mark E; Quick, Harald H; Kraff, Oliver

2017-12-01

In this work, we present an 8-channel transceiver (Tx/Rx) 7-channel receive (Rx) radiofrequency (RF) coil setup for 7 T ultrahigh-field MR imaging of the shoulder. A C-shaped 8-channel Tx/Rx coil was combined with an anatomically close-fitting 7-channel Rx-only coil. The safety and performance parameters of this coil setup were evaluated on the bench and in phantom experiments. The 7 T MR imaging performance of the shoulder RF coil setup was evaluated in in vivo measurements using a 3D DESS, a 2D PD-weighted TSE sequence, and safety supervision based on virtual observation points. Distinct SNR gain and acceleration capabilities provided by the additional 7-channel Rx-only coil were demonstrated in phantom and in vivo measurements. The power efficiency indicated good performance of each channel and a maximum B 1 + of 19 μT if the hardware RF power limits of the MR system were exploited. MR imaging of the shoulder was demonstrated with clinically excellent image quality and submillimeter spatial resolution. The presented 8-channel transceiver 7-channel receive RF coil setup was successfully applied for in vivo 7 T MRI of the shoulder providing a clear SNR gain vs the transceiver array without the additional receive array. Homogeneous images across the shoulder region were obtained using 8-channel subject-specific phase-only RF shimming. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Cortical Enhanced Tissue Segmentation of Neonatal Brain MR Images Acquired by a Dedicated Phased Array Coil

PubMed Central

Shi, Feng; Yap, Pew-Thian; Fan, Yong; Cheng, Jie-Zhi; Wald, Lawrence L.; Gerig, Guido; Lin, Weili; Shen, Dinggang

2010-01-01

The acquisition of high quality MR images of neonatal brains is largely hampered by their characteristically small head size and low tissue contrast. As a result, subsequent image processing and analysis, especially for brain tissue segmentation, are often hindered. To overcome this problem, a dedicated phased array neonatal head coil is utilized to improve MR image quality by effectively combing images obtained from 8 coil elements without lengthening data acquisition time. In addition, a subject-specific atlas based tissue segmentation algorithm is specifically developed for the delineation of fine structures in the acquired neonatal brain MR images. The proposed tissue segmentation method first enhances the sheet-like cortical gray matter (GM) structures in neonatal images with a Hessian filter for generation of cortical GM prior. Then, the prior is combined with our neonatal population atlas to form a cortical enhanced hybrid atlas, which we refer to as the subject-specific atlas. Various experiments are conducted to compare the proposed method with manual segmentation results, as well as with additional two population atlas based segmentation methods. Results show that the proposed method is capable of segmenting the neonatal brain with the highest accuracy, compared to other two methods. PMID:20862268

Investigating a Quadrant Surface Coil Array for NQR Remote Sensing

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-23

UNCLASSIFIED 1  Abstract—this paper is on the design and fabrication of a surface coil array in a quadrant layout for NQR (Nuclear Quadrupole...coupling and SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) at standoff distances perpendicular from each coil. Index Terms— Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance, NQR ...Coil Array, probe, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, tuning, decoupling, RLC, mutual coupling, RLC I. INTRODUCTION N Nuclear quadrupole resonance ( NQR

A 31-Channel MR Brain Array Coil Compatible with Positron Emission Tomography

PubMed Central

Sander, Christin Y.; Keil, Boris; Chonde, Daniel B.; Rosen, Bruce R.; Catana, Ciprian; Wald, Lawrence L.

2014-01-01

Purpose Simultaneous acquisition of MR and PET images requires the placement of the MR detection coil inside the PET detector ring where it absorbs and scatters photons. This constraint is the principal barrier to achieving optimum sensitivity on each modality. Here, we present a 31-channel PET-compatible brain array coil with reduced attenuation but improved MR sensitivity. Methods A series of component tests were performed to identify tradeoffs between PET and MR performance. Aspects studied include the remote positioning of preamplifiers, coax size, coil trace size/material, and plastic housing. We then maximized PET performance at minimal cost to MR sensitivity. The coil was evaluated for MR performance (SNR, g-factor) and PET attenuation. Results The coil design showed an improvement in attenuation by 190% (average) compared to conventional 32-channel arrays, and no loss in MR SNR. Moreover, the 31-channel coil displayed an SNR improvement of 230% (cortical ROI) compared to a PET-optimized 8-channel array with similar attenuation properties. Implementing attenuation correction of the 31-channel array successfully removed PET artifacts, which were comparable to those of the 8-channel array. Conclusion The design of the 31-channel PET-compatible coil enables higher sensitivity for PET/MR imaging, paving the way for novel applications in this hybrid-imaging domain. PMID:25046699

A six-channel pediatric coil array for detection of children spinal pathologies by MRI at 1.5 Tesla

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

López Terrones, Marcos Alonso; Solís-Nájera, Sergio Enrique

2014-11-01

Nowadays, magnetic resonance (MR) in Mexico has become a standard technique for clinical imaging. Although most of the times the MR systems contain only coils oriented for adults. Radiologists use these coils for children studies due to the non-availability of pediatric coils. Image quality is decreased due to the low signal to noise ratio delivered to the system. The development of RF coils is always focused towards increasing SNR and optimizing the RF penetration into the sample. Moreover, spinal pathologies in children, which are an important topic in pediatric care, cover congenital and neuromuscular disorders that occur in childhood. In this work, the design of a dedicated six-channel coil for detection of spinal pathologies at 1.5 Tesla is addressed. Numerical electromagnetic simulations were performed in order to evaluate their magnetic field performance at (63.6 MHz) 1.5 Tesla. The magnetic field uniformity as well as the RF penetration depth of the coil configurations was evaluated in order to find the best/optimized coil array configuration. The coil is comprised of three rows, one with 4 coil elements and two with only one coil element. Phantom and in vivo images were acquired with the six-channel pediatric coil array. The phantom images agree with the simulated data. In vivo images acquired with the 6-channel pediatric coil array have shown very good penetration depth and homogeneity, which allow better image quality throughout the whole FOV. In addition, the parallel imaging capabilities of the array allow the acceleration of the experiments avoiding possible motion artifacts.

A transmit/receive radiofrequency array for imaging the carotid arteries at 7 Tesla: coil design and first in vivo results.

PubMed

Kraff, Oliver; Bitz, Andreas K; Breyer, Tobias; Kruszona, Stefan; Maderwald, Stefan; Brote, Irina; Gizewski, Elke R; Ladd, Mark E; Quick, Harald H

2011-04-01

To develop a transmit/receive radiofrequency (RF) array for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the carotid arteries at 7 T. The prototype is characterized in numerical simulations and bench measurements, and the feasibility of plaque imaging at 7 T is demonstrated in first in vivo images. The RF phased array coil consists of 8 surface loop coils. To allow imaging of both sides of the neck, the RF array is divided into 2 coil clusters, each with 4 overlapping loop elements. For safety validation, numerical computations of the RF field distribution and the corresponding specific absorption rate were performed on the basis of a heterogeneous human body model. To validate the coil model, maps of the transmit B1(+) field were compared between simulation and measurement. In vivo images of a healthy volunteer and a patient (ulcerating plaque and a 50% stenosis of the right internal carotid artery) were acquired using a 3-dimensional FLASH sequence with a high isotropic spatial resolution of 0.54 mm as well as using pulse-triggered proton density (PD)/T2-weighted turbo spin echo sequences. Measurements of the S-parameters yielded a reflection and isolation of the coil elements of better than -18 and -13 dB, respectively. Measurements of the g-factor indicated good image quality for parallel imaging acceleration factors up to 2.4. A similar distribution and a very good match of the absolute values were found between the measured and simulated B1(+) transmit RF field for the validation of the coil model. In vivo images revealed good signal excitation of both sides of the neck and a high vessel-to-background image contrast for the noncontrast-enhanced 3-dimensional FLASH sequence. Imaging at 7 T could depict the extent of stenosis, and revealed the disruption and ulcer of the plaque. This study demonstrates that 2 four-channel transmit/receive RF arrays for each side of the neck is a suitable concept for in vivo MRI of the carotid arteries at 7 Tesla. Further studies are needed to explore and exploit the full potential of 7 T high-field MRI for carotid atherosclerotic plaque imaging.

Locating Materials with Nuclear Quadrupole Moments within Surface Coil Array Area

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-11

location and dimension of the material can determined based on the nuclear quadrupole resonance ( NQR ) signal strength from the surface coil in the array...28.1MHz NQR frequency from potassium chlorate (PC) sample at room temperature. The PC sample will be in different locations parallel to the surface...using the experimental results from the dual surface coil array. 15. SUBJECT TERMS NQR , potassium chlorate, surface coil, surface probe, decoupling

[Active surveillance for prostate cancer: usefulness of endorectal MR at 1.5 Tesla with pelvic phased array coil in detecting significant tumors].

PubMed

Luyckx, F; Hallouin, P; Barré, C; Aillet, G; Chauveau, P; Hétet, J-F; Bouchot, O; Rigaud, J

2011-02-01

To describe and assess MRI signs of significant tumor in a series of patients who all underwent radical prostatectomy and also fulfilled criteria to choose active surveillance according to French "SurAcaP" protocol. The clinical reports of 681 consecutive patients operated on for prostate cancer between 2002 and 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. All patients had endorectal MR (1.5 Tesla) with pelvic phased array coil. (1.5 T erMR PPA). Sixty-one patients (8.9%) fulfilled "SurAcaP" protocol criteria. Preoperative data (MR+core biopsy) were assessed by comparison to whole-mount step section pathology. 85.3% of the 61 patients entering SurAcaP protocol had significant tumor at pathology. (Non Organ Confined Disease (Non OCD)=8.2%, Gleason sum score>6=39.2%). A new exclusion criterion has been assessed: T3MRI±NPS>1 as a predictor tool of significant tumor. ("T3MRI±NPS>1"=Non OCD at MR±number of positive sextants involved in tumor at MR and/or Core Biopsy > to 1). Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV of the criterion "T3MRI±NPS>1" in predicting significant tumor were, respectively: 77%, 33%, 86%, 20%. Adding this criterion to other criteria of the "SurAcaP" protocol could allow the exclusion of all Non OCD, and a decrease in Gleason sum Score>6 rates (20%). Endorectal MR at 1.5 Tesla with pelvic-phased array coil should be considered when selecting patients for active surveillance in the management of prostate cancer. A criterion based upon MR and core biopsy findings, called "T3MR±NSP>1" may represent an exclusion citeria due to its ability to predict significant tumor. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A 31-channel MR brain array coil compatible with positron emission tomography.

PubMed

Sander, Christin Y; Keil, Boris; Chonde, Daniel B; Rosen, Bruce R; Catana, Ciprian; Wald, Lawrence L

2015-06-01

Simultaneous acquisition of MR and positron emission tomography (PET) images requires the placement of the MR detection coil inside the PET detector ring where it absorbs and scatters photons. This constraint is the principal barrier to achieving optimum sensitivity on each modality. Here, we present a 31-channel PET-compatible brain array coil with reduced attenuation but improved MR sensitivity. A series of component tests were performed to identify tradeoffs between PET and MR performance. Aspects studied include the remote positioning of preamplifiers, coax size, coil trace size/material, and plastic housing. We then maximized PET performance at minimal cost to MR sensitivity. The coil was evaluated for MR performance (signal to noise ratio [SNR], g-factor) and PET attenuation. The coil design showed an improvement in attenuation by 190% (average) compared with conventional 32-channel arrays, and no loss in MR SNR. Moreover, the 31-channel coil displayed an SNR improvement of 230% (cortical region of interest) compared with a PET-optimized 8-channel array with similar attenuation properties. Implementing attenuation correction of the 31-channel array successfully removed PET artifacts, which were comparable to those of the 8-channel array. The design of the 31-channel PET-compatible coil enables higher sensitivity for PET/MR imaging, paving the way for novel applications in this hybrid-imaging domain. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Integrated parallel reception, excitation, and shimming (iPRES).

PubMed

Han, Hui; Song, Allen W; Truong, Trong-Kha

2013-07-01

To develop a new concept for a hardware platform that enables integrated parallel reception, excitation, and shimming. This concept uses a single coil array rather than separate arrays for parallel excitation/reception and B0 shimming. It relies on a novel design that allows a radiofrequency current (for excitation/reception) and a direct current (for B0 shimming) to coexist independently in the same coil. Proof-of-concept B0 shimming experiments were performed with a two-coil array in a phantom, whereas B0 shimming simulations were performed with a 48-coil array in the human brain. Our experiments show that individually optimized direct currents applied in each coil can reduce the B0 root-mean-square error by 62-81% and minimize distortions in echo-planar images. The simulations show that dynamic shimming with the 48-coil integrated parallel reception, excitation, and shimming array can reduce the B0 root-mean-square error in the prefrontal and temporal regions by 66-79% as compared with static second-order spherical harmonic shimming and by 12-23% as compared with dynamic shimming with a 48-coil conventional shim array. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of the integrated parallel reception, excitation, and shimming concept to perform parallel excitation/reception and B0 shimming with a unified coil system as well as its promise for in vivo applications. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Integrated Parallel Reception, Excitation, and Shimming (iPRES)

PubMed Central

Han, Hui; Song, Allen W.; Truong, Trong-Kha

2013-01-01

Purpose To develop a new concept for a hardware platform that enables integrated parallel reception, excitation, and shimming (iPRES). Theory This concept uses a single coil array rather than separate arrays for parallel excitation/reception and B0 shimming. It relies on a novel design that allows a radiofrequency current (for excitation/reception) and a direct current (for B0 shimming) to coexist independently in the same coil. Methods Proof-of-concept B0 shimming experiments were performed with a two-coil array in a phantom, whereas B0 shimming simulations were performed with a 48-coil array in the human brain. Results Our experiments show that individually optimized direct currents applied in each coil can reduce the B0 root-mean-square error by 62–81% and minimize distortions in echo-planar images. The simulations show that dynamic shimming with the 48-coil iPRES array can reduce the B0 root-mean-square error in the prefrontal and temporal regions by 66–79% as compared to static 2nd-order spherical harmonic shimming and by 12–23% as compared to dynamic shimming with a 48-coil conventional shim array. Conclusion Our results demonstrate the feasibility of the iPRES concept to perform parallel excitation/reception and B0 shimming with a unified coil system as well as its promise for in vivo applications. PMID:23629974

POCS-enhanced correction of motion artifacts in parallel MRI.

PubMed

Samsonov, Alexey A; Velikina, Julia; Jung, Youngkyoo; Kholmovski, Eugene G; Johnson, Chris R; Block, Walter F

2010-04-01

A new method for correction of MRI motion artifacts induced by corrupted k-space data, acquired by multiple receiver coils such as phased arrays, is presented. In our approach, a projections onto convex sets (POCS)-based method for reconstruction of sensitivity encoded MRI data (POCSENSE) is employed to identify corrupted k-space samples. After the erroneous data are discarded from the dataset, the artifact-free images are restored from the remaining data using coil sensitivity profiles. The error detection and data restoration are based on informational redundancy of phased-array data and may be applied to full and reduced datasets. An important advantage of the new POCS-based method is that, in addition to multicoil data redundancy, it can use a priori known properties about the imaged object for improved MR image artifact correction. The use of such information was shown to improve significantly k-space error detection and image artifact correction. The method was validated on data corrupted by simulated and real motion such as head motion and pulsatile flow.

A six-channel pediatric coil array for detection of children spinal pathologies by MRI at 1.5 Tesla

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

López Terrones, Marcos Alonso, E-mail: malt.marcos@gmail.com; Solís-Nájera, Sergio Enrique, E-mail: solisnajera@ciencias.unam.mx

Nowadays, magnetic resonance (MR) in Mexico has become a standard technique for clinical imaging. Although most of the times the MR systems contain only coils oriented for adults. Radiologists use these coils for children studies due to the non-availability of pediatric coils. Image quality is decreased due to the low signal to noise ratio delivered to the system. The development of RF coils is always focused towards increasing SNR and optimizing the RF penetration into the sample. Moreover, spinal pathologies in children, which are an important topic in pediatric care, cover congenital and neuromuscular disorders that occur in childhood. Inmore » this work, the design of a dedicated six-channel coil for detection of spinal pathologies at 1.5 Tesla is addressed. Numerical electromagnetic simulations were performed in order to evaluate their magnetic field performance at (63.6 MHz) 1.5 Tesla. The magnetic field uniformity as well as the RF penetration depth of the coil configurations was evaluated in order to find the best/optimized coil array configuration. The coil is comprised of three rows, one with 4 coil elements and two with only one coil element. Phantom and in vivo images were acquired with the six-channel pediatric coil array. The phantom images agree with the simulated data. In vivo images acquired with the 6-channel pediatric coil array have shown very good penetration depth and homogeneity, which allow better image quality throughout the whole FOV. In addition, the parallel imaging capabilities of the array allow the acceleration of the experiments avoiding possible motion artifacts.« less

Flexible, phase-matched, linear receive arrays for high-field MRI in monkeys.

PubMed

Goense, Jozien; Logothetis, Nikos K; Merkle, Hellmut

2010-10-01

High signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) are essential for high-resolution anatomical and functional MRI. Phased arrays are advantageous for this but have the drawback that they often have inflexible and bulky configurations. Particularly in experiments where functional MRI is combined with simultaneous electrophysiology, space constraints can be prohibitive. To this end we developed a highly flexible multiple receive element phased array for use on anesthetized monkeys. The elements are interchangeable and different sizes and combinations of coil elements can be used, for instance, combinations of single and overlapped elements. The preamplifiers including control electronics are detachable and can serve a variety of prefabricated and phase matched arrays of different configurations, allowing the elements to always be placed in close proximity to the area of interest. Optimizing performance of the individual elements ensured high SNR at the cortical surface as well as in deeper laying structures. Performance of a variety of arrangements of gapped linear arrays was evaluated at 4.7 and 7T in high-resolution anatomical and functional MRI. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Extended Monopole antenna Array with individual Shield (EMAS) coil: An improved monopole antenna design for brain imaging at 7 tesla MRI.

PubMed

Woo, Myung-Kyun; Hong, Suk-Min; Lee, Jongho; Kang, Chang-Ki; Park, Sung-Yeon; Son, Young-Don; Kim, Young-Bo; Cho, Zang-Hee

2016-06-01

To propose a new Extended Monopole antenna Array with individual Shields (EMAS) coil that improves the B1 field coverage and uniformity along the z-direction. To increase the spatial coverage of Monopole antenna Array (MA) coil, each monopole antenna was shielded and extended in length. Performance of this new coil, which is referred to as EMAS coil, was compared with the original MA coil and an Extended Monopole antenna Array coil with no shield (EMA). For comparison, flip angle, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and receive sensitivity maps were measured at multiple regions of interest (ROIs) in the brain. The EMAS coil demonstrated substantially larger flip angle and receive sensitivity than the MA and EMA coils in the inferior aspect of the brain. In the brainstem ROI, for example, the flip angle in the EMAS coil was increased by 45.5% (or 60.0%) and the receive sensitivity was increased by 26.9% (or 14.9%), resulting in an SNR gain of 84.8% (or 76.3%) when compared with the MA coil (or EMA). The EMAS coil provided 25.7% (or 24.4%) more uniform B1+ field distribution compared with the MA (or EMA) coil in sagittal. The EMAS coil successfully extended the imaging volume in lower part of the brain. Magn Reson Med 75:2566-2572, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Design of a Nested Eight-Channel Sodium and Four-Channel Proton Coil for 7 Tesla Knee Imaging

PubMed Central

Brown, Ryan; Madelin, Guillaume; Lattanzi, Riccardo; Chang, Gregory; Regatte, Ravinder R.; Sodickson, Daniel K.; Wiggins, Graham C.

2012-01-01

The critical design aim for a dual-tuned sodium/proton coil is to maximize sodium sensitivity and transmit field (B1+) homogeneity while simultaneously providing adequate proton sensitivity and homogeneity. While most dual-frequency coils utilize lossy high-impedance trap circuits or PIN diodes to allow dual-resonance, we explored a nested-coil design for sodium/proton knee imaging at 7T. A stand-alone eight-channel sodium receive array was implemented without standard dual-resonance circuitry to provide improved sodium signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) over a volume coil. A detunable sodium birdcage was added for homogeneous sodium excitation and a four-channel proton transmit-receive array was added to provide anatomical reference imaging and B0 shimming capability. Both modules were implemented with minimal disturbance to the eight-channel sodium array by managing their respective resonances and geometrical arrangement. In vivo sodium SNR was 1.2 to 1.7 times greater in the developed eight-channel array than in a mono-nuclear sodium birdcage coil, while the developed four-channel proton array provided SNR similar to that of a commercial mono-nuclear proton birdcage coil. PMID:22887123

Transceiver-Phased Arrays for Human Brain Studies at 7 T

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

The paper describes technological advances in high-field (7 T) transceiver-phased arrays developed for magnetic resonance imaging of the human brain. The first part of this work describes an 8-element inductively decoupled split elliptical transceiver-phased array with selectable geometry, which provides an easy and efficient way of compensating for changes in mutual inductive coupling associated with difference in loading due to variability in head shape and size. The second part of the work describes a double-row 16-element (2 × 8) transceiver array to extend the homogeneous transmit B1 profile in the longitudinal direction. Multiplexing eight transmit channels between the two rows of the array provides homogeneous excitation over the entire volume. The final section describes design and construction of a double-tuned 31P/1H 16-element (8 at each frequency) array. The array improves transmission efficiency and B1 homogeneity at 1H frequency in comparison with 31P/1H quadrature transverse electromagnetic volume coil. For 31P studies, the array also improves transmission efficiency (38%), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for central brain locations (20%) and provides substantially greater SNR (up to 400%) for peripheral locations. PMID:23516332

Sensitivity Enhancement of an Inductively Coupled Local Detector Using a HEMT-based Current Amplifier

PubMed Central

Qian, Chunqi; Duan, Qi; Dodd, Steve; Koretsky, Alan; Murphy-Boesch, Joe

2015-01-01

Purpose To improve the signal transmission efficiency and sensitivity of a local detection coil that is weakly inductively coupled to a larger receive coil. Methods The resonant detection coil is connected in parallel with the gate of a HEMT transistor without impedance matching. When the drain of the transistor is capacitively shunted to ground, current amplification occurs in the resonator by feedback that transforms a capacitive impedance on the transistor’s source to a negative resistance on its gate. Results High resolution images were obtained from a mouse brain using a small, 11 mm diameter surface coil that was inductively coupled to a commercial, phased array chest coil. Although the power consumption of the amplifier was only 88 µW, 14 dB gain was obtained with excellent noise performance. Conclusion An integrated current amplifier based on a High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT) can enhance the sensitivity of inductively coupled local detectors when weakly coupled. This amplifier enables efficient signal transmission between customized user coils and commercial clinical coils, without the need for a specialized signal interface. PMID:26192998

Comparison of radiofrequency body coils for MRI at 3 Tesla: a simulation study using parallel transmission on various anatomical targets

PubMed Central

Wu, Xiaoping; Zhang, Xiaotong; Tian, Jinfeng; Schmitter, Sebastian; Hanna, Brian; Strupp, John; Pfeuffer, Josef; Hamm, Michael; Wang, Dingxin; Nistler, Juergen; He, Bin; Vaughan, J. Thomas; Ugurbil, Kamil; Van de Moortele, Pierre-Francois

2015-01-01

The performance of multichannel transmit coil layouts and parallel transmission (pTx) radiofrequency (RF) pulse design was evaluated with respect to transmit B1 (B1+) homogeneity and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) at 3 Tesla for a whole body coil. Five specific coils were modeled and compared: a 32-rung birdcage body coil (driven either in a fixed quadrature mode or a two-channel transmit mode), two single-ring stripline arrays (with either 8 or 16 elements), and two multi-ring stripline arrays (with 2 or 3 identical rings, stacked in the z-axis and each comprising eight azimuthally distributed elements). Three anatomical targets were considered, each defined by a 3D volume representative of a meaningful region of interest (ROI) in routine clinical applications. For a given anatomical target, global or local SAR controlled pTx pulses were designed to homogenize RF excitation within the ROI. At the B1+ homogeneity achieved by the quadrature driven birdcage design, pTx pulses with multichannel transmit coils achieved up to ~8 fold reduction in local and global SAR. When used for imaging head and cervical spine or imaging thoracic spine, the double-ring array outperformed all coils including the single-ring arrays. While the advantage of the double-ring array became much less pronounced for pelvic imaging with a substantially larger ROI, the pTx approach still provided significant gains over the quadrature birdcage coil. For all design scenarios, using the 3-ring array did not necessarily improve the RF performance. Our results suggest that pTx pulses with multichannel transmit coils can reduce local and global SAR substantially for body coils while attaining improved B1+ homogeneity, particularly for a “z-stacked” double-ring design with coil elements arranged on two transaxial rings. PMID:26332290

Characterization and evaluation of a flexible MRI receive coil array for radiation therapy MR treatment planning using highly decoupled RF circuits.

PubMed

McGee, Kiaran P; Stormont, Robert S; Lindsay, Scott A; Taracila, Victor; Savitskij, Dennis; Robb, Fraser; Witte, Robert J; Kaufmann, Timothy J; Huston, John; Riederer, Stephen J; Borisch, Eric A; Rossman, Phillip J

2018-04-13

The growth in the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data for radiation therapy (RT) treatment planning has been facilitated by scanner hardware and software advances that have enabled RT patients to be imaged in treatment position while providing morphologic and functional assessment of tumor volumes and surrounding normal tissues. Despite these advances, manufacturers have been slow to develop radiofrequency (RF) coils that closely follow the contour of a RT patient undergoing MR imaging. Instead, relatively large form surface coil arrays have been adapted from diagnostic imaging. These arrays can be challenging to place on, and in general do not conform to the patient's body habitus, resulting in sub optimal image quality. The purpose of this study is to report on the characterization of a new flexible and highly decoupled RF coil for use in MR imaging of RT patients. Coil performance was evaluated by performing signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and noise correlation measurements using two coil (SNR) and four coil (noise correlation) element combinations as a function of coil overlap distance and comparing these values to those obtained using conventional coil elements. In vivo testing was performed in both normal volunteers and patients using a four and 16 element RF coil. Phantom experiments demonstrate the highly decoupled nature of the new coil elements when compared to conventional RF coils, while in vivo testing demonstrate that these coils can be integrated into extremely flexible and form fitting substrates that follow the exact contour of the patient. The new coil design addresses limitations imposed by traditional surface coil arrays and have the potential to significantly impact MR imaging for both diagnostic and RT applications.

Characterization and evaluation of a flexible MRI receive coil array for radiation therapy MR treatment planning using highly decoupled RF circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGee, Kiaran P.; Stormont, Robert S.; Lindsay, Scott A.; Taracila, Victor; Savitskij, Dennis; Robb, Fraser; Witte, Robert J.; Kaufmann, Timothy J.; Huston, John, III; Riederer, Stephen J.; Borisch, Eric A.; Rossman, Phillip J.

2018-04-01

The growth in the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data for radiation therapy (RT) treatment planning has been facilitated by scanner hardware and software advances that have enabled RT patients to be imaged in treatment position while providing morphologic and functional assessment of tumor volumes and surrounding normal tissues. Despite these advances, manufacturers have been slow to develop radiofrequency (RF) coils that closely follow the contour of a RT patient undergoing MR imaging. Instead, relatively large form surface coil arrays have been adapted from diagnostic imaging. These arrays can be challenging to place on, and in general do not conform to the patient’s body habitus, resulting in sub optimal image quality. The purpose of this study is to report on the characterization of a new flexible and highly decoupled RF coil for use in MR imaging of RT patients. Coil performance was evaluated by performing signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and noise correlation measurements using two coil (SNR) and four coil (noise correlation) element combinations as a function of coil overlap distance and comparing these values to those obtained using conventional coil elements. In vivo testing was performed in both normal volunteers and patients using a four and 16 element RF coil. Phantom experiments demonstrate the highly decoupled nature of the new coil elements when compared to conventional RF coils, while in vivo testing demonstrate that these coils can be integrated into extremely flexible and form fitting substrates that follow the exact contour of the patient. The new coil design addresses limitations imposed by traditional surface coil arrays and have the potential to significantly impact MR imaging for both diagnostic and RT applications.

Geometrical Design of a Scalable Overlapping Planar Spiral Coil Array to Generate a Homogeneous Magnetic Field.

PubMed

Jow, Uei-Ming; Ghovanloo, Maysam

2012-12-21

We present a design methodology for an overlapping hexagonal planar spiral coil (hex-PSC) array, optimized for creation of a homogenous magnetic field for wireless power transmission to randomly moving objects. The modular hex-PSC array has been implemented in the form of three parallel conductive layers, for which an iterative optimization procedure defines the PSC geometries. Since the overlapping hex-PSCs in different layers have different characteristics, the worst case coil-coupling condition should be designed to provide the maximum power transfer efficiency (PTE) in order to minimize the spatial received power fluctuations. In the worst case, the transmitter (Tx) hex-PSC is overlapped by six PSCs and surrounded by six other adjacent PSCs. Using a receiver (Rx) coil, 20 mm in radius, at the coupling distance of 78 mm and maximum lateral misalignment of 49.1 mm (1/√3 of the PSC radius) we can receive power at a PTE of 19.6% from the worst case PSC. Furthermore, we have studied the effects of Rx coil tilting and concluded that the PTE degrades significantly when θ > 60°. Solutions are: 1) activating two adjacent overlapping hex-PSCs simultaneously with out-of-phase excitations to create horizontal magnetic flux and 2) inclusion of a small energy storage element in the Rx module to maintain power in the worst case scenarios. In order to verify the proposed design methodology, we have developed the EnerCage system, which aims to power up biological instruments attached to or implanted in freely behaving small animal subjects' bodies in long-term electrophysiology experiments within large experimental arenas.

A Two-dimensional Sixteen Channel Transmit/Receive Coil Array for Cardiac MRI at 7.0 Tesla: Design, Evaluation and Application

PubMed Central

Thalhammer, Christof; Renz, Wolfgang; Winter, Lukas; Hezel, Fabian; Rieger, Jan; Pfeiffer, Harald; Graessl, Andreas; Seifert, Frank; Hoffmann, Werner; von Knobelsdorff-Brenkenhoff, Florian; Tkachenko, Valeriy; Schulz-Menger, Jeanette; Kellman, Peter; Niendorf, Thoralf

2012-01-01

Purpose To design, evaluate and apply a two-dimensional 16 channel transmit/receive coil array tailored for cardiac MRI at 7.0 Tesla. Material and Methods The cardiac coil array consists of 2 sections each using 8 elements arranged in a 2 × 4 array. RF safety was validated by SAR simulations. Cardiac imaging was performed using 2D CINE FLASH imaging, T2* mapping and fat-water separation imaging. The characteristics of the coil array were analyzed including parallel imaging performance, left ventricular chamber quantification and overall image quality. Results RF characteristics were found to be appropriate for all subjects included in the study. The SAR values derived from the simulations fall well in the limits of legal guidelines. The baseline SNR advantage at 7.0 T was put to use to acquire 2D CINE images of the heart with a very high spatial resolution of (1 × 1 × 4) mm3. The proposed coil array supports 1D acceleration factors of up to R=4 without impairing image quality significantly. Conclusions The 16 channel TX/RX coil has the capability to acquire high contrast and high spatial resolution images of the heart at 7.0 Tesla. PMID:22706727

T2- and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging at 3T for the detection of prostate cancer with and without endorectal coil: An intraindividual comparison of image quality and diagnostic performance.

PubMed

Baur, Alexander D J; Daqqaq, Tareef; Wagner, Moritz; Maxeiner, Andreas; Huppertz, Alexander; Renz, Diane; Hamm, Bernd; Fischer, Thomas; Durmus, Tahir

2016-06-01

To intraindividually compare image quality and diagnostic performance of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) at 3T for the detection of prostate cancer (PCa) using a pelvic phased-array coil (PAC) and a combined endorectal and pelvic phased-array coil (ERC-PAC). Forty-five patients were prospectively included and received mpMRI of the prostate using a PAC and an ERC-PAC during one imaging session. Two radiologists evaluated image quality and the most suspicious lesion according to the PI-RADS scoring system. Results of MRI-TRUS-fusion biopsy of the prostate served as reference standard. Patient comfort and acceptance were assessed using a standardized questionnaire. Overall image quality for T2WI was rated significantly better with an ERC-PAC compared to a PAC (p=0.0038). The weighted kappa for PI-RADS scores for T2WI and DWI with a PAC and an ERC-PAC was 0.70 and 0.73, respectively. For a PI-RADS sum score including T2WI and DWI the area under the curve with a PAC and an ERC-PAC were 0.95-0.99 and 0.93-0.97, respectively (p=0.1395). For T2WI and DWI performed at 3T index PCa lesion identification and evaluation did not differ significantly with both coil setups. Patients preferred MRI without an ERC. Therefore, the use of an ERC may be omitted in a prostate cancer detection setting. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Development of RF coil of permanent magnet mini-magnetic resonance imager and mouse imaging experiments].

PubMed

Hou, Shulian; Xie, Huantong; Chen, Wei; Wang, Guangxin; Zhao, Qiang; Li, Shiyu

2014-10-01

In the development of radio frequency (RF) coils for better quality of the mini-type permanent magnetic resonance imager for using in the small animal imaging, the solenoid RF coil has a special advantage for permanent magnetic system based on analyses of various types.of RF coils. However, it is not satisfied for imaging if the RF coils are directly used. By theoretical analyses of the magnetic field properties produced from the solenoid coil, the research direction was determined by careful studies to raise further the uniformity of the magnetic field coil, receiving coil sensitivity for signals and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The method had certain advantages and avoided some shortcomings of the other different coil types, such as, birdcage coil, saddle shaped coil and phased array coil by using the alloy materials (from our own patent). The RF coils were designed, developed and made for keeled applicable to permanent magnet-type magnetic resonance imager, multi-coil combination-type, single-channel overall RF receiving coil, and applied for a patent. Mounted on three instruments (25 mm aperture, with main magnetic field strength of 0.5 T or 1.5 T, and 50 mm aperture, with main magnetic field strength of 0.48 T), we performed experiments with mice, rats, and nude mice bearing tumors. The experimental results indicated that the RF receiving coil was fully applicable to the permanent magnet-type imaging system.

Impact of coil design on the contrast-to-noise ratio, precision, and consistency of quantitative cartilage morphometry at 3 Tesla: a pilot study for the osteoarthritis initiative.

PubMed

Eckstein, Felix; Kunz, Manuela; Hudelmaier, Martin; Jackson, Rebecca; Yu, Joseph; Eaton, Charles B; Schneider, Erika

2007-02-01

Phased-array (PA) coils generally provide higher signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) than quadrature knee coils. In this pilot study for the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) we compared these two types of coils in terms of contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), precision, and consistency of quantitative femorotibial cartilage measurements. Test-retest measurements were acquired using coronal fast low-angle shot with water excitation (FLASHwe) and coronal multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) of sagittal double-echo steady state with water excitation (DESSwe) at 3T. The precision errors for cartilage volume and thickness were

Four-channel magnetic resonance imaging receiver using frequency domain multiplexing.

PubMed

He, Wang; Qin, Xu; Jiejing, Ren; Gengying, Li

2007-01-01

An alternative technique that uses frequency domain multiplexing to acquire phased array magnetic resonance images is discussed in detail. The proposed method has advantages over traditional independent receiver chains in that it utilizes an analog-to-digital converter and a single-chip multicarrier receiver with high performance to reduce the size and cost of the phased array receiver system. A practical four-channel digital receiver using frequency domain multiplexing was implemented and verified on a home-built 0.3 T magnetic resonance imaging system. The experimental results confirmed that the cross talk between each channel was below -60 dB, the phase fluctuations were about 1 degrees , and there was no obvious signal-to-noise ratio degradation. It is demonstrated that the frequency domain multiplexing is a valuable and economical technique, particularly for array coil systems where the multichannel receiver is indispensable and dynamic range is not a critical problem.

Brain GABA Detection in vivo with the J-editing 1H MRS Technique: A Comprehensive Methodological Evaluation of Sensitivity Enhancement, Macromolecule Contamination and Test-Retest Reliability

PubMed Central

Shungu, Dikoma C.; Mao, Xiangling; Gonzales, Robyn; Soones, Tacara N.; Dyke, Jonathan P.; van der Veen, Jan Willem; Kegeles, Lawrence S.

2016-01-01

Abnormalities in brain γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) have been implicated in various neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders. However, in vivo GABA detection by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) presents significant challenges arising from low brain concentration, overlap by much stronger resonances, and contamination by mobile macromolecule (MM) signals. This study addresses these impediments to reliable brain GABA detection with the J-editing difference technique on a 3T MR system in healthy human subjects by (a) assessing the sensitivity gains attainable with an 8-channel phased-array head coil, (b) determining the magnitude and anatomic variation of the contamination of GABA by MM, and (c) estimating the test-retest reliability of measuring GABA with this method. Sensitivity gains and test-retest reliability were examined in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), while MM levels were compared across three cortical regions: the DLPFC, the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) and the occipital cortex (OCC). A 3-fold higher GABA detection sensitivity was attained with the 8-channel head coil compared to the standard single-channel head coil in DLPFC. Despite significant anatomic variation in GABA+MM and MM across the three brain regions (p < 0.05), the contribution of MM to GABA+MM was relatively stable across the three voxels, ranging from 41% to 49%, a non-significant regional variation (p = 0.58). The test-retest reliability of GABA measurement, expressed either as ratios to voxel tissue water (W) or total creatine, was found to be very high for both the single-channel coil and the 8-channel phased-array coil. For the 8-channel coil, for example, Pearson’s correlation coefficient of test vs. retest for GABA/W was 0.98 (R2 = 0.96, p = 0.0007), the percent coefficient of variation (CV) was 1.25%, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.98. Similar reliability was also found for the co-edited resonance of combined glutamate and glutamine (Glx) for both coils. PMID:27173449

An analytical SMASH procedure (ASP) for sensitivity-encoded MRI.

PubMed

Lee, R F; Westgate, C R; Weiss, R G; Bottomley, P A

2000-05-01

The simultaneous acquisition of spatial harmonics (SMASH) method of imaging with detector arrays can reduce the number of phase-encoding steps, and MRI scan time several-fold. The original approach utilized numerical gradient-descent fitting with the coil sensitivity profiles to create a set of composite spatial harmonics to replace the phase-encoding steps. Here, an analytical approach for generating the harmonics is presented. A transform is derived to project the harmonics onto a set of sensitivity profiles. A sequence of Fourier, Hilbert, and inverse Fourier transform is then applied to analytically eliminate spatially dependent phase errors from the different coils while fully preserving the spatial-encoding. By combining the transform and phase correction, the original numerical image reconstruction method can be replaced by an analytical SMASH procedure (ASP). The approach also allows simulation of SMASH imaging, revealing a criterion for the ratio of the detector sensitivity profile width to the detector spacing that produces optimal harmonic generation. When detector geometry is suboptimal, a group of quasi-harmonics arises, which can be corrected and restored to pure harmonics. The simulation also reveals high-order harmonic modulation effects, and a demodulation procedure is presented that enables application of ASP to a large numbers of detectors. The method is demonstrated on a phantom and humans using a standard 4-channel phased-array MRI system. Copyright 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

A combined solenoid-surface RF coil for high-resolution whole-brain rat imaging on a 3.0 Tesla clinical MR scanner.

PubMed

Underhill, Hunter R; Yuan, Chun; Hayes, Cecil E

2010-09-01

Rat brain models effectively simulate a multitude of human neurological disorders. Improvements in coil design have facilitated the wider utilization of rat brain models by enabling the utilization of clinical MR scanners for image acquisition. In this study, a novel coil design, subsequently referred to as the rat brain coil, is described that exploits and combines the strengths of both solenoids and surface coils into a simple, multichannel, receive-only coil dedicated to whole-brain rat imaging on a 3.0 T clinical MR scanner. Compared with a multiturn solenoid mouse body coil, a 3-cm surface coil, a modified Helmholtz coil, and a phased-array surface coil, the rat brain coil improved signal-to-noise ratio by approximately 72, 61, 78, and 242%, respectively. Effects of the rat brain coil on amplitudes of static field and radiofrequency field uniformity were similar to each of the other coils. In vivo, whole-brain images of an adult male rat were acquired with a T(2)-weighted spin-echo sequence using an isotropic acquisition resolution of 0.25 x 0.25 x 0.25 mm(3) in 60.6 min. Multiplanar images of the in vivo rat brain with identification of anatomic structures are presented. Improvement in signal-to-noise ratio afforded by the rat brain coil may broaden experiments that utilize clinical MR scanners for in vivo image acquisition. 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Multicoil resonance-based parallel array for smart wireless power delivery.

PubMed

Mirbozorgi, S A; Sawan, M; Gosselin, B

2013-01-01

This paper presents a novel resonance-based multicoil structure as a smart power surface to wirelessly power up apparatus like mobile, animal headstage, implanted devices, etc. The proposed powering system is based on a 4-coil resonance-based inductive link, the resonance coil of which is formed by an array of several paralleled coils as a smart power transmitter. The power transmitter employs simple circuit connections and includes only one power driver circuit per multicoil resonance-based array, which enables higher power transfer efficiency and power delivery to the load. The power transmitted by the driver circuit is proportional to the load seen by the individual coil in the array. Thus, the transmitted power scales with respect to the load of the electric/electronic system to power up, and does not divide equally over every parallel coils that form the array. Instead, only the loaded coils of the parallel array transmit significant part of total transmitted power to the receiver. Such adaptive behavior enables superior power, size and cost efficiency then other solutions since it does not need to use complex detection circuitry to find the location of the load. The performance of the proposed structure is verified by measurement results. Natural load detection and covering 4 times bigger area than conventional topologies with a power transfer efficiency of 55% are the novelties of presented paper.

Using a whole-body 31P birdcage transmit coil and 16-element receive array for human cardiac metabolic imaging at 7T

PubMed Central

Dragonu, Iulius; Almujayyaz, Salam; Batzakis, Alex; Young, Liam A. J.; Purvis, Lucian A. B.; Clarke, William T.; Wichmann, Tobias; Lanz, Titus; Neubauer, Stefan; Robson, Matthew D.; Klomp, Dennis W. J.; Rodgers, Christopher T.

2017-01-01

Purpose Cardiac phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS) provides unique insight into the mechanisms of heart failure. Yet, clinical applications have been hindered by the restricted sensitivity of the surface radiofrequency-coils normally used. These permit the analysis of spectra only from the interventricular septum, or large volumes of myocardium, which may not be meaningful in focal disease. Löring et al. recently presented a prototype whole-body (52 cm diameter) transmit/receive birdcage coil for 31P at 7T. We now present a new, easily-removable, whole-body 31P transmit radiofrequency-coil built into a patient-bed extension combined with a 16-element receive array for cardiac 31P-MRS. Materials and methods A fully-removable (55 cm diameter) birdcage transmit coil was combined with a 16-element receive array on a Magnetom 7T scanner (Siemens, Germany). Electro-magnetic field simulations and phantom tests of the setup were performed. In vivo maps of B1+, metabolite signals, and saturation-band efficiency were acquired across the torsos of eight volunteers. Results The combined (volume-transmit, local receive array) setup increased signal-to-noise ratio 2.6-fold 10 cm below the array (depth of the interventricular septum) compared to using the birdcage coil in transceiver mode. The simulated coefficient of variation for B1+ of the whole-body coil across the heart was 46.7% (surface coil 129.0%); and the in vivo measured value was 38.4%. Metabolite images of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate clearly resolved the ventricular blood pools, and muscle tissue was visible in phosphocreatine (PCr) maps. Amplitude-modulated saturation bands achieved 71±4% suppression of phosphocreatine PCr in chest-wall muscles. Subjects reported they were comfortable. Conclusion This easy-to-assemble, volume-transmit, local receive array coil combination significantly improves the homogeneity and field-of-view for metabolic imaging of the human heart at 7T. PMID:29073228

Metal Solidification Imaging Process by Magnetic Induction Tomography.

PubMed

Ma, Lu; Spagnul, Stefano; Soleimani, Manuchehr

2017-11-06

There are growing number of important applications that require a contactless method for monitoring an object surrounded inside a metallic enclosure. Imaging metal solidification is a great example for which there is no real time monitoring technique at present. This paper introduces a technique - magnetic induction tomography - for the real time in-situ imaging of the metal solidification process. Rigorous experimental verifications are presented. Firstly, a single inductive coil is placed on the top of a melting wood alloy to examine the changes of its inductance during solidification process. Secondly, an array of magnetic induction coils are designed to investigate the feasibility of a tomographic approach, i.e., when one coil is driven by an alternating current as a transmitter and a vector of phase changes are measured from the remaining of the coils as receivers. Phase changes are observed when the wood alloy state changes from liquid to solid. Thirdly, a series of static cold phantoms are created to represent various liquid/solid interfaces to verify the system performance. Finally, a powerful temporal reconstruction method is applied to realise real time in-situ visualisation of the solidification and the measurement of solidified shell thickness, a first report of its kind.

High-performance radiofrequency coils for (23)Na MRI: brain and musculoskeletal applications.

PubMed

Wiggins, Graham C; Brown, Ryan; Lakshmanan, Karthik

2016-02-01

(23)Na RF coil design for brain and MSK applications presents a number of challenges, including poor coil loading for arrays of small coils and SNR penalties associated with providing (1)H capability with the same coil. The basics of RF coil design are described, as well as a review of historical approaches to dual tuning. There follows a review of published high performance coil designs for MSK and brain imaging. Several coil designs have been demonstrated at 7T and 3T which incorporate close-fitting receive arrays and in some cases design features which provide (1)H imaging with little penalty to (23)Na sensitivity. The "nested coplanar loop" approach is examined, in which small transmit-receive (1)H elements are placed within each (23)Na loop, presenting only a small perturbation to (23)Na performance and minimizing RF shielding issues. Other designs incorporating transmit-receive arrays for (23)Na and (1)H are discussed including a 9.4 T (23)Na/(1)H brain coil. Great gains in (23)Na SNR have been made with many of these designs, but simultaneously achieving high performance for 1H remains elusive. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Improving whole brain structural MRI at 4.7 Tesla using 4 irregularly shaped receiver coils.

PubMed

Carmichael, David W; Thomas, David L; De Vita, Enrico; Fernández-Seara, Maria A; Chhina, Navjeet; Cooper, Mark; Sunderland, Colin; Randell, Chris; Turner, Robert; Ordidge, Roger J

2006-09-01

Both higher magnetic field strengths (> or =3 T) and multiple receiver "array coils" can provide increased signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for MRI. This increase in SNR can be used to obtain images with higher resolution, enabling better visualisation of structures within the human brain. However, high field strength systems also suffer from increased B(1) non-uniformity and increased power deposition, reaching specific absorption rate (SAR) limits more quickly. For these problems to be mitigated, a careful choice of both the pulse sequence design and transmit RF coil is required. This paper describes the use of a prototype array coil consisting of 4 irregularly shaped coils within a standard configuration for neuroimaging at 4.7 T (a head transmit/receive volume coil to minimise SAR and a head gradient insert for maximum gradient performance). With a fast spin echo (FSE) pulse sequence optimised for 4.7 T, this provides dramatically increased quality and resolution over a large brain volume. Using the array coil, a SNR improvement relative to the volume coil of 1-1.5 times in central brain areas and 2-3 times in cortical regions was obtained. Array coil images with a resolution of 352 x 352 x 2000 mum had a SNR of 16.0 to 26.2 in central regions and 19.9 to 34.8 in cortical areas. Such images easily demonstrate cortical myeloarchitecture, while still covering most of the brain in a approximately 12 min scan.

Integrated Parallel Reception, Excitation, and Shimming (iPRES) with multiple shim loops per RF coil element for improved B0 shimming

PubMed Central

Darnell, Dean; Truong, Trong-Kha; Song, Allen W.

2016-01-01

Purpose Integrated parallel reception, excitation, and shimming (iPRES) coil arrays allow radio-frequency (RF) currents and direct currents (DC) to flow in the same coils, which enables excitation/reception and localized B0 shimming with a single coil array. The purpose of this work was to improve their shimming performance by adding the capability to shim higher-order local B0 inhomogeneities that are smaller than the RF coil elements. Methods A novel design was proposed in which each RF/shim coil element is divided into multiple DC loops, each using an independent DC current, to increase the number of magnetic fields available for shimming while maintaining the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the coil. This new design is termed iPRES(N), where N represents the number of DC loops per RF coil element. Proof-of-concept phantom and human experiments were performed with an 8-channel body coil array to demonstrate its advantages over the original iPRES(1) design. Results The average B0 homogeneity in various organs before shimming and after shimming with the iPRES(1) or iPRES(3) coil arrays was 0.24, 0.11, and 0.05 ppm, respectively. iPRES(3) thus reduced the B0 inhomogeneity by 53% and further reduced distortions in echo-planar images of the abdomen when compared to iPRES(1). Conclusion iPRES(N) can correct for localized B0 inhomogeneities more effectively than iPRES(1) with no SNR loss, resulting in a significant improvement in image quality. PMID:27174387

Resonant Inductive Decoupling (RID) for Transceiver Arrays to Compensate for both Reactive and Resistive Components of the Mutual Impedance

PubMed Central

Avdievich, Nikolai I.; Pan, Jullie W.; Hetherington, Hoby P.

2013-01-01

Transceiver surface coil arrays improve transmit performance (B1/√kW) and B1 homogeneity for head imaging up to 9.4 T. To further improve reception performance and parallel imaging the number of array elements has to be increased with correspondent decrease of their size. With a large number of small interacting antennas decoupling is one of the most challenging aspects in the design and construction of transceiver arrays. Previously described decoupling techniques using geometric overlap, inductive or capacitive decoupling have focused on eliminating only the reactance of the mutual impedance, which can limit the obtainable decoupling to −10 dB due to residual mutual resistance. A novel resonant inductive decoupling (RID) method, which allows compensation for both reactive and resistive components of the mutual impedance between the adjacent surface coils, has been developed and experimentally verified. This method provides an easy way to adjust the decoupling remotely by changing the resonance frequency of the RID circuit through adjustment of a variable capacitor. As an example a single row (1×16) 7T transceiver head array of n=16 small overlapped surface coils using RID decoupling between adjacent coils was built. In combination with overlapped coils the RID technique achieved better than −24 dB of decoupling for all adjacent coils. PMID:23775840

An Embedded 4-Channel Receive-Only RF Coil Array for fMRI Experiments of the Somatosensory Pathway in Conscious Awake Marmosets at 7T

PubMed Central

Papoti, Daniel; Yen, Cecil Chern-Chyi; Mackel, Julie B.; Merkle, Hellmut; Silva, Afonso C.

2014-01-01

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) has established itself as the main research tool in neuroscience and brain cognitive research. The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is a non-human primate model of increasing interest in biomedical research. However, commercial MRI coils for marmosets are not generally available. The present work describes the design and construction of a 4-channel receive-only surface RF coil array with excellent signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) specifically optimized for fMRI experiments in awake marmosets in response to somatosensory stimulation. The array was designed as part of a helmet-based head restraint system used to prevent motion during the scans. High SNR was obtained by building the coil array using a thin and flexible substrate glued to the inner surface of the restraint helmet, so as to minimize the distance between the array elements and the somatosensory cortex. Decoupling between coil elements was achieved by partial geometrical overlapping and by connecting them to home-built low input impedance preamplifiers. In vivo images show excellent coverage of the brain cortical surface with high sensitivity near the somatosensory cortex. Embedding the coil elements within the restraint helmet allowed fMRI data in response to somatosensory stimulation to be collected with high sensitivity and reproducibility in conscious, awake marmosets. PMID:23696219

The NASA Inductrack Model Rocket Launcher at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tung, L. S.; Post, R. F.; Cook, E.; Martinez-Frias, J.

2000-01-01

The Inductrack magnetic levitation system, developed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, is being studied for its possible use for launching rockets. Under NASA sponsorship, a small model system is being constructed at the Laboratory to pursue key technical aspects of this proposed application. The Inductrack is a passive magnetic levitation system employing special arrays of high-field permanent magnets (Halbach arrays) on the levitating carrier, moving above a "track" consisting of a close-packed array of shorted coils with which are interleaved with special drive coils. Halbach arrays produce a strong spatially periodic magnetic field on the front surface of the arrays, while canceling the field on their back surface. Relative motion between the Halbach arrays and the track coils induces currents in those coils. These currents levitate the carrier cart by interacting with the horizontal component of the magnetic field. Pulsed currents in the drive coils, synchronized with the motion of the carrier, interact with the vertical component of the magnetic field to provide acceleration forces. Motional stability, including resistance to both vertical and lateral aerodynamic forces, is provided by having Halbach arrays that interact with both the upper and the lower sides of the track coils. In its completed form the model system that is under construction will have a track approximately 100 meters in length along which the carrier cart will be propelled up to peak speeds of Mach 0.4 to 0.5 before being decelerated. Preliminary studies of the parameters of a full-scale system have also been made. These studies address the problems of scale-up, including means to simplify the track construction and to reduce the cost of the pulsed-power systems needed for propulsion.

SU-F-J-143: Initial Assessment of Image Quality of An Integrated MR-Linac System with ACR Phantom

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, J; Fuller, C; Yung, J

Purpose/Objective(s): To assess the image quality of an integrated MR-Linac system and compare with other MRI systems that are primarily used for diagnostic purposes. Materials/Methods: An ACR MRI quality control (QC) phantom was used to evaluate the image quality of a fully integrated 1.5T MRI-Linac system recently installed at our institution. This system has a new split magnet design which gives the magnetic field strength of 1.5T. All images were acquired with a set of phased-array surface coils which are designed to have minimal attention of radiation beam. The anterior coil rests on a coil holder which keeps the anteriormore » coil’s position consistent for QA purposes. The posterior coil is imbedded in the patient couch. Multiple sets of T1, T2/PD images were acquired using the protocols as prescribed by the ACR on three different dates, ranging 3 months apart. Results: The geometric distortion are within 0.5 mm in the axial scans and within 1mm in the saggital (z-direction) scans. Slice thickness accuracy, image uniformity, ghosting ratio, high contrast detectability are comparable to other 1.5T diagnostic MRI scanners. The low-contrast object detectability are lower comparatively, which is a result of using the body array coil. Additionally, the beam’s-eye-view images (oblique coronal and saggital images) have minimal geometric distortion at all linac gantry angles tested. No observable changes or drift in image quality is found from images acquired 3 month apart. Conclusion: Despite the use of a body array surface coil, the image quality is comparable to that of an 1.5T MRI scanner and is of sufficient quality to pass the ACR MRI accreditation program. The geometric distortion of the MRI system of the integrated MR-Linac is within 1mm for an object size similar to the ACR phantom, sufficient for radiation therapy treatment purpose. The authors received corporate sponsored research grants from Elekta which is the vendor for the MR-Linac evaluated in this study.« less

Sensitivity Enhancement of an Inductively Coupled Local Detector Using a HEMT-Based Current Amplifier.

PubMed

Qian, Chunqi; Duan, Qi; Dodd, Steve; Koretsky, Alan; Murphy-Boesch, Joe

2016-06-01

To improve the signal transmission efficiency and sensitivity of a local detection coil that is weakly inductively coupled to a larger receive coil. The resonant detection coil is connected in parallel with the gate of a high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) transistor without impedance matching. When the drain of the transistor is capacitively shunted to ground, current amplification occurs in the resonator by feedback that transforms a capacitive impedance on the transistor's source to a negative resistance on its gate. High resolution images were obtained from a mouse brain using a small, 11 mm diameter surface coil that was inductively coupled to a commercial, phased array chest coil. Although the power consumption of the amplifier was only 88 μW, 14 dB gain was obtained with excellent noise performance. An integrated current amplifier based on a HEMT can enhance the sensitivity of inductively coupled local detectors when weakly coupled. This amplifier enables efficient signal transmission between customized user coils and commercial clinical coils, without the need for a specialized signal interface. Magn Reson Med 75:2573-2578, 2016. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Published 2015 This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

The CDRH helix. A phase I clinical trial.

PubMed

Shimm, D S; Cetas, T C; Hynynen, K H; Buechler, D N; Anhalt, D P; Sykes, H F; Cassady, J R

1989-04-01

Seventeen patients have been given regional hyperthermia treatments using the Center for Devices and Radiologic Health (CDRH) Helix, a resonant helical coil unit. Most of these patients had large, clinically advanced tumors, whose mean volume exceeded 1000 cc. Mean maximum, minimum, and average temperatures were 40.6, 38.6, and 39.6 degrees C, respectively, for all sites combined. The pelvic heating capabilities of the CDRH Helix and the BSD-1000 annular phased array were compared, and generally were equivalent. Although the Helix could be used in a wider variety of locations, and was more comfortable and easier to use than the BSD-1000 annular phased array, neither device was particularly effective in generating clinically useful temperatures; the Helix is currently under investigation for use in regional-systemic hyperthermia in combination with antineoplastic drugs and biologic response modifiers.

Analytical characteristics of a continuum-source tungsten coil atomic absorption spectrometer.

PubMed

Rust, Jennifer A; Nóbrega, Joaquim A; Calloway, Clifton P; Jones, Bradley T

2005-08-01

A continuum-source tungsten coil electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometer has been assembled, evaluated, and employed in four different applications. The instrument consists of a xenon arc lamp light source, a tungsten coil atomizer, a Czerny-Turner high resolution monochromator, and a linear photodiode array detector. This instrument provides simultaneous multi-element analyses across a 4 nm spectral window with a resolution of 0.024 nm. Such a device might be useful in many different types of analyses. To demonstrate this broad appeal, four very different applications have been evaluated. First of all, the temperature of the gas phase was measured during the atomization cycle of the tungsten coil, using tin as a thermometric element. Secondly, a summation approach for two absorption lines for aluminum falling within the same spectral window (305.5-309.5 nm) was evaluated. This approach improves the sensitivity without requiring any additional preconcentration steps. The third application describes a background subtraction technique, as it is applied to the analysis of an oil emulsion sample. Finally, interference effects caused by Na on the atomization of Pb were studied. The simultaneous measurements of Pb and Na suggests that negative interference arises at least partially from competition between Pb and Na atoms for H2 in the gas phase.

Analysis of an integrated 8-channel Tx/Rx body array for use as a body coil in 7-Tesla MRI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orzada, Stephan; Bitz, Andreas K.; Johst, Sören; Gratz, Marcel; Völker, Maximilian N.; Kraff, Oliver; Abuelhaija, Ashraf; Fiedler, Thomas M.; Solbach, Klaus; Quick, Harald H.; Ladd, Mark E.

2017-06-01

Object In this work an 8-channel array integrated into the gap between the gradient coil and bore liner of a 7-Tesla whole-body magnet is presented that would allow a workflow closer to that of systems at lower magnetic fields that have a built-in body coil; this integrated coil is compared to a local 8-channel array built from identical elements placed directly on the patient. Materials and Methods SAR efficiency and the homogeneity of the right-rotating B1 field component (B_1^+) are investigated numerically and compared to the local array. Power efficiency measurements are performed in the MRI System. First in vivo gradient echo images are acquired with the integrated array. Results While the remote array shows a slightly better performance in terms of B_1^+ homogeneity, the power efficiency and the SAR efficiency are inferior to those of the local array: the transmit voltage has to be increased by a factor of 3.15 to achieve equal flip angles in a central axial slice. The g-factor calculations show a better parallel imaging g-factor for the local array. The field of view of the integrated array is larger than that of the local array. First in vivo images with the integrated array look subjectively promising. Conclusion Although some RF performance parameters of the integrated array are inferior to a tight-fitting local array, these disadvantages might be compensated by the use of amplifiers with higher power and the use of local receive arrays. In addition, the distant placement provides the potential to include more elements in the array design.

A Nested Phosphorus and Proton Coil Array for Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Brown, Ryan; Lakshmanan, Karthik; Madelin, Guillaume; Parasoglou, Prodromos

2015-01-01

A dual-nuclei radiofrequency coil array was constructed for phosphorus and proton magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy of the human brain at 7 Tesla. An eight-channel transceive degenerate birdcage phosphorus module was implemented to provide whole-brain coverage and significant sensitivity improvement over a standard dual-tuned loop coil. A nested eight-channel proton module provided adequate sensitivity for anatomical localization without substantially sacrificing performance on the phosphorus module. The developed array enabled phosphorus spectroscopy, a saturation transfer technique to calculate the global creatine kinase forward reaction rate, and single-metabolite whole-brain imaging with 1.4 cm nominal isotropic resolution in 15 min (2.3 cm actual resolution), while additionally enabling 1 mm isotropic proton imaging. This study demonstrates that a multi-channel array can be utilized for phosphorus and proton applications with improved coverage and/or sensitivity over traditional single-channel coils. The efficient multi-channel coil array, time-efficient pulse sequences, and the enhanced signal strength available at ultra-high fields can be combined to allow volumetric assessment of the brain and could provide new insights into the underlying energy metabolism impairment in several neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as mental disorders such as schizophrenia. PMID:26375209

A nested phosphorus and proton coil array for brain magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy.

PubMed

Brown, Ryan; Lakshmanan, Karthik; Madelin, Guillaume; Parasoglou, Prodromos

2016-01-01

A dual-nuclei radiofrequency coil array was constructed for phosphorus and proton magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy of the human brain at 7T. An eight-channel transceive degenerate birdcage phosphorus module was implemented to provide whole-brain coverage and significant sensitivity improvement over a standard dual-tuned loop coil. A nested eight-channel proton module provided adequate sensitivity for anatomical localization without substantially sacrificing performance on the phosphorus module. The developed array enabled phosphorus spectroscopy, a saturation transfer technique to calculate the global creatine kinase forward reaction rate, and single-metabolite whole-brain imaging with 1.4cm nominal isotropic resolution in 15min (2.3cm actual resolution), while additionally enabling 1mm isotropic proton imaging. This study demonstrates that a multi-channel array can be utilized for phosphorus and proton applications with improved coverage and/or sensitivity over traditional single-channel coils. The efficient multi-channel coil array, time-efficient pulse sequences, and the enhanced signal strength available at ultra-high fields can be combined to allow volumetric assessment of the brain and could provide new insights into the underlying energy metabolism impairment in several neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, as well as mental disorders such as schizophrenia. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Improving quality of arterial spin labeling MR imaging at 3 Tesla with a 32-channel coil and parallel imaging.

PubMed

Ferré, Jean-Christophe; Petr, Jan; Bannier, Elise; Barillot, Christian; Gauvrit, Jean-Yves

2012-05-01

To compare 12-channel and 32-channel phased-array coils and to determine the optimal parallel imaging (PI) technique and factor for brain perfusion imaging using Pulsed Arterial Spin labeling (PASL) at 3 Tesla (T). Twenty-seven healthy volunteers underwent 10 different PASL perfusion PICORE Q2TIPS scans at 3T using 12-channel and 32-channel coils without PI and with GRAPPA or mSENSE using factor 2. PI with factor 3 and 4 were used only with the 32-channel coil. Visual quality was assessed using four parameters. Quantitative analyses were performed using temporal noise, contrast-to-noise and signal-to-noise ratios (CNR, SNR). Compared with 12-channel acquisition, the scores for 32-channel acquisition were significantly higher for overall visual quality, lower for noise and higher for SNR and CNR. With the 32-channel coil, artifact compromise achieved the best score with PI factor 2. Noise increased, SNR and CNR decreased with PI factor. However mSENSE 2 scores were not always significantly different from acquisition without PI. For PASL at 3T, the 32-channel coil at 3T provided better quality than the 12-channel coil. With the 32-channel coil, mSENSE 2 seemed to offer the best compromise for decreasing artifacts without significantly reducing SNR, CNR. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Parallel image-acquisition in continuous-wave electron paramagnetic resonance imaging with a surface coil array: Proof-of-concept experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Enomoto, Ayano; Hirata, Hiroshi

2014-02-01

This article describes a feasibility study of parallel image-acquisition using a two-channel surface coil array in continuous-wave electron paramagnetic resonance (CW-EPR) imaging. Parallel EPR imaging was performed by multiplexing of EPR detection in the frequency domain. The parallel acquisition system consists of two surface coil resonators and radiofrequency (RF) bridges for EPR detection. To demonstrate the feasibility of this method of parallel image-acquisition with a surface coil array, three-dimensional EPR imaging was carried out using a tube phantom. Technical issues in the multiplexing method of EPR detection were also clarified. We found that degradation in the signal-to-noise ratio due to the interference of RF carriers is a key problem to be solved.

Radiofrequency energy deposition and radiofrequency power requirements in parallel transmission with increasing distance from the coil to the sample.

PubMed

Deniz, Cem M; Vaidya, Manushka V; Sodickson, Daniel K; Lattanzi, Riccardo

2016-01-01

We investigated global specific absorption rate (SAR) and radiofrequency (RF) power requirements in parallel transmission as the distance between the transmit coils and the sample was increased. We calculated ultimate intrinsic SAR (UISAR), which depends on object geometry and electrical properties but not on coil design, and we used it as the reference to compare the performance of various transmit arrays. We investigated the case of fixing coil size and increasing the number of coils while moving the array away from the sample, as well as the case of fixing coil number and scaling coil dimensions. We also investigated RF power requirements as a function of lift-off, and tracked local SAR distributions associated with global SAR optima. In all cases, the target excitation profile was achieved and global SAR (as well as associated maximum local SAR) decreased with lift-off, approaching UISAR, which was constant for all lift-offs. We observed a lift-off value that optimizes the balance between global SAR and power losses in coil conductors. We showed that, using parallel transmission, global SAR can decrease at ultra high fields for finite arrays with a sufficient number of transmit elements. For parallel transmission, the distance between coils and object can be optimized to reduce SAR and minimize RF power requirements associated with homogeneous excitation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Magnetic Calorimeter Arrays with High Sensor Inductance and Dense Wiring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stevenson, T. R.; Balvin, M. A.; Bandler, S. R.; Devasia, A. M.; Nagler, P. C.; Smith, S. J.; Yoon, W.

2018-05-01

We describe prototype arrays of magnetically coupled microcalorimeters fabricated with an approach scalable to very large format arrays. The superconducting interconnections and sensor coils have sufficiently low inductance in the wiring and sufficiently high inductance in the coils in each pixel, to enable arrays containing greater than 4000 sensors and 100,000 X-ray absorbers to be used in future astrophysics missions such as Lynx. We have used projection lithography to create submicron patterns (e.g., 400 nm lines and spaces) in our niobium sensor coils and wiring, integrated with gold-erbium sensor films and gold X-ray absorbers. Our prototype devices will explore the device physics of metallic magnetic calorimeters as feature sizes are reduced to nanoscale.

Quantitative (23) Na MRI of human knee cartilage using dual-tuned (1) H/(23) Na transceiver array radiofrequency coil at 7 tesla.

PubMed

Moon, Chan Hong; Kim, Jung-Hwan; Zhao, Tiejun; Bae, Kyongtae Ty

2013-11-01

To develop quantitative dual-tuned (DT) (1) H/(23) Na MRI of human knee cartilage in vivo at 7 Tesla (T). A sensitive (23) Na transceiver array RF coil was developed at 7T. B1 fields generated by the transceiver array coil were characterized and corrected in the (23) Na images. Point spread function (PSF) of the (23) Na images was measured, and the signal decrease due to partial-volume-effect was compensated in [(23) Na] quantification of knee cartilage. SNR and [(23) Na] in anterior femoral cartilage were measured from seven healthy subjects. SNR of (23) Na image with the transceiver array coil was higher than that of birdcage coil. SNR in the cartilage at 2-mm isotropic resolution was 26.80 ± 3.69 (n = 7). B1 transmission and reception fields produced by the DT coil at 7T were similar to each other. Effective full-width-half-maximum of (23) Na image was ∼5 mm at 2-mm resolution. Mean [(23) Na] was 288.13 ± 29.50 mM (n = 7) in the anterior femoral cartilage of normal subjects. We developed a new high-sensitivity (23) Na RF coil for knee MRI at 7T. Our (1) H/(23) Na MRI allowed quantitative measurement of [(23) Na] in knee cartilage by measuring PSF and cartilage thickness from (23) Na and (1) H image, respectively. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A high-precision miniaturized rotating coil transducer for magnetic measurements

DOE PAGES

Arpaia, P.; Buzio, M.; De Oliveira, R.; ...

2018-02-08

A miniaturized Printed Circuit Board (PCB) sensing coil, jointly developed by CERN and Fermilab for measuring the field of small-gap (less than 10 mm) accelerator magnets, is illustrated. A sensing coil array, with a scheme for compensating the main field when measuring the harmonic error components, hosted on a synthetic sapphire-based transducer, is presented. Key innovating features are (i) very-small size, both for the sensing coil array (thickness of 1.380 mm) and for the transducer (overall diameter of 7.350 mm), (ii) metrological performance, namely accuracy (more than five times better than state of the art), and 1-sigma repeatability (ten timesmore » better on harmonics with amplitude less than 100 ppm), and (iii) manufacturing technology of both the coil array (13 double layers aligned within 10 μm), and the sapphire support (concentricity, the most important uncertainty source for rotating coils, 3 μm of uncertainty, namely one order of magnitude better than fiberglass support). After stating the measurement problem, the design of the transducer and a case study of a two-layer PCB sensor array are also illustrated. Then, the prototyping and quality control of both the sensor and the transducer are discussed. Furthermore, the calibration and the results obtained with a prototype setup at Fermilab are presented. Finally, in the appendix, the theory of the rotating coil, the sensor geometry, and the harmonic compensation are briefly reviewed for the reader easiness.« less

A high-precision miniaturized rotating coil transducer for magnetic measurements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Arpaia, P.; Buzio, M.; De Oliveira, R.

A miniaturized Printed Circuit Board (PCB) sensing coil, jointly developed by CERN and Fermilab for measuring the field of small-gap (less than 10 mm) accelerator magnets, is illustrated. A sensing coil array, with a scheme for compensating the main field when measuring the harmonic error components, hosted on a synthetic sapphire-based transducer, is presented. Key innovating features are (i) very-small size, both for the sensing coil array (thickness of 1.380 mm) and for the transducer (overall diameter of 7.350 mm), (ii) metrological performance, namely accuracy (more than five times better than state of the art), and 1-sigma repeatability (ten timesmore » better on harmonics with amplitude less than 100 ppm), and (iii) manufacturing technology of both the coil array (13 double layers aligned within 10 μm), and the sapphire support (concentricity, the most important uncertainty source for rotating coils, 3 μm of uncertainty, namely one order of magnitude better than fiberglass support). After stating the measurement problem, the design of the transducer and a case study of a two-layer PCB sensor array are also illustrated. Then, the prototyping and quality control of both the sensor and the transducer are discussed. Furthermore, the calibration and the results obtained with a prototype setup at Fermilab are presented. Finally, in the appendix, the theory of the rotating coil, the sensor geometry, and the harmonic compensation are briefly reviewed for the reader easiness.« less

RF Magnetic Field Uniformity of Rectangular Planar Coils for Resonance Imaging

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-04

coil with square -shaped overlapping turns along the 135mm length of the coil. This paper compares these two coils to determine which has a more...in which, the coil arrays consist of a few square or circular coils side-by-side or overlapping. Mobile unilateral NMR/MRI scanners were...magnetic field along the length of a normal rectangular coil (NRC) and a rectangular coil with overlapping square -shaped turns (RCOS). The RCOS coil is

[MRI and prostate cancer: a paradigm shift].

PubMed

Lemaitre, L; Rouvière, O; Penna-Renard, R; Villers, A; Puech, P

2008-09-01

A shift in the use of prostate MR for diagnosis, staging, and pre-treatment planning over the last several years has modified the MR protocols. Classically used to detect extra-prostatic tumor, MR now plays a role for diagnosis (pre-biopsy evaluation in a patient with elevated PSA and suspected cancer in an unusual site), treatment planning (prostate mapping), and follow-up after treatment (evaluation for local recurrence or follow-up after HIFU, radiation therapy, or focal treatment...). Imaging protocols at 1.5T and 3.0T combine morphological T2W imaging with functional sequences (perfusion imaging, diffusion imaging, spectroscopy) using high-resolution phased array pelvic coils or "combined" coils (added endorectal coil). To promote acceptance by clinicians and increased access to patients, the indications for prostate MR must be better defined (and provide useful data to urologists), the cost must be reduced, and results must be more reproducible and standardized.

Localizing on-scalp MEG sensors using an array of magnetic dipole coils.

PubMed

Pfeiffer, Christoph; Andersen, Lau M; Lundqvist, Daniel; Hämäläinen, Matti; Schneiderman, Justin F; Oostenveld, Robert

2018-01-01

Accurate estimation of the neural activity underlying magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals requires co-registration i.e., determination of the position and orientation of the sensors with respect to the head. In modern MEG systems, an array of hundreds of low-Tc SQUID sensors is used to localize a set of small, magnetic dipole-like (head-position indicator, HPI) coils that are attached to the subject's head. With accurate prior knowledge of the positions and orientations of the sensors with respect to one another, the HPI coils can be localized with high precision, and thereby the positions of the sensors in relation to the head. With advances in magnetic field sensing technologies, e.g., high-Tc SQUIDs and optically pumped magnetometers (OPM), that require less extreme operating temperatures than low-Tc SQUID sensors, on-scalp MEG is on the horizon. To utilize the full potential of on-scalp MEG, flexible sensor arrays are preferable. Conventional co-registration is impractical for such systems as the relative positions and orientations of the sensors to each other are subject-specific and hence not known a priori. Herein, we present a method for co-registration of on-scalp MEG sensors. We propose to invert the conventional co-registration approach and localize the sensors relative to an array of HPI coils on the subject's head. We show that given accurate prior knowledge of the positions of the HPI coils with respect to one another, the sensors can be localized with high precision. We simulated our method with realistic parameters and layouts for sensor and coil arrays. Results indicate co-registration is possible with sub-millimeter accuracy, but the performance strongly depends upon a number of factors. Accurate calibration of the coils and precise determination of the positions and orientations of the coils with respect to one another are crucial. Finally, we propose methods to tackle practical challenges to further improve the method.

Localizing on-scalp MEG sensors using an array of magnetic dipole coils

PubMed Central

Andersen, Lau M.; Lundqvist, Daniel; Hämäläinen, Matti; Schneiderman, Justin F.; Oostenveld, Robert

2018-01-01

Accurate estimation of the neural activity underlying magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals requires co-registration i.e., determination of the position and orientation of the sensors with respect to the head. In modern MEG systems, an array of hundreds of low-Tc SQUID sensors is used to localize a set of small, magnetic dipole-like (head-position indicator, HPI) coils that are attached to the subject’s head. With accurate prior knowledge of the positions and orientations of the sensors with respect to one another, the HPI coils can be localized with high precision, and thereby the positions of the sensors in relation to the head. With advances in magnetic field sensing technologies, e.g., high-Tc SQUIDs and optically pumped magnetometers (OPM), that require less extreme operating temperatures than low-Tc SQUID sensors, on-scalp MEG is on the horizon. To utilize the full potential of on-scalp MEG, flexible sensor arrays are preferable. Conventional co-registration is impractical for such systems as the relative positions and orientations of the sensors to each other are subject-specific and hence not known a priori. Herein, we present a method for co-registration of on-scalp MEG sensors. We propose to invert the conventional co-registration approach and localize the sensors relative to an array of HPI coils on the subject’s head. We show that given accurate prior knowledge of the positions of the HPI coils with respect to one another, the sensors can be localized with high precision. We simulated our method with realistic parameters and layouts for sensor and coil arrays. Results indicate co-registration is possible with sub-millimeter accuracy, but the performance strongly depends upon a number of factors. Accurate calibration of the coils and precise determination of the positions and orientations of the coils with respect to one another are crucial. Finally, we propose methods to tackle practical challenges to further improve the method. PMID:29746486

Three-Phase Time-Multiplexed Planar Power Transmission to Distributed Implants.

PubMed

Lee, Byunghun; Ahn, Dukju; Ghovanloo, Maysam

2016-03-01

A platform has been presented for wireless powering of receivers (Rx's) that are arbitrarily distributed over a large area. A potential application could be powering of small Rx implants, distributed over large areas of the brain. The transmitter (Tx) consists of three overlapping layers of hexagonal planar spiral coils (hex-PSC) that are horizontally shifted to provide the strongest and most homogeneous electromagnetic flux coverage. The three-layer hex-PSC array is driven by a three-phase time-division-multiplexed power Tx that takes the advantage of the carrier phase shift, coil geometries, and Rx time constant to homogeneously power the arbitrarily distributed Rx's regardless of their misalignments. The functionality of the proposed three-phase power transmission concept has been verified in a detailed scaled-up high-frequency structure simulator Advanced Design System simulation model and measurement setup, and compared with a conventional Tx. The new Tx delivers 5.4 mW to each Rx and achieves, on average, 5.8% power transfer efficiency to the Rx at the worst case 90° angular misalignment, compared with 1.4% by the conventional Tx.

Improved receiver arrays and optimized parallel imaging accelerations applied to time-resolved 3D fluoroscopically tracked peripheral runoff CE-MRA.

PubMed

Weavers, Paul T; Borisch, Eric A; Hulshizer, Tom C; Rossman, Phillip J; Young, Phillip M; Johnson, Casey P; McKay, Jessica; Cline, Christopher C; Riederer, Stephen J

2016-04-01

Three-station stepping-table time-resolved 3D contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography has conflicting demands in the need to limit acquisition time in proximal stations to match the speed of the advancing contrast bolus and in the distal-most station to avoid venous contamination while still providing clinically useful spatial resolution. This work describes improved receiver coil arrays which address this issue by allowing increased acceleration factors, providing increased spatial resolution per unit time. Receiver coil arrays were constructed for each station (pelvis, thigh, calf) and then integrated into a 48-element array for three-station peripheral CE-MRA. Coil element sizes and array configurations for these three stations were designed to improve SENSE-type parallel imaging taking advantage of an increase in coil count for all stations versus the previous 32 channel capability. At each station either acceleration apportionment or optimal CAIPIRINHA selection was used to choose the optimum acceleration parameters for each subject. Results were evaluated in both single- and multi-station studies. Single-station studies showed that SENSE acceleration in the thigh station could be readily increased from R=8 to R=10, allowing reduction of the frame time from 2.5 to 2.1 s to better image the typically rapidly advancing bolus at this station. Similarly, the improved coil array for the calf station permitted acceleration increase from R=8 to R=12, providing a 4.0 vs. 5.2 s frame time. Results in three-station studies suggest an improved ability to track the contrast bolus in peripheral CE-MRA. Modified receiver coil arrays and individualized parameter optimization have been used to provide improved acceleration at all stations in multi-station peripheral CE-MRA and provide high spatial resolution with frame times as short as 2.1 s. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A field programmable gate array unit for the diagnosis and control of neoclassical tearing modes on MAST

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

O'Gorman, T.; Gibson, K. J.; Snape, J. A.

2012-10-15

A real-time system has been developed to trigger both the MAST Thomson scattering (TS) system and the plasma control system on the phase and amplitude of neoclassical tearing modes (NTMs), extending the capabilities of the original system. This triggering system determines the phase and amplitude of a given NTM using magnetic coils at different toroidal locations. Real-time processing of the raw magnetic data occurs on a low cost field programmable gate array (FPGA) based unit which permits triggering of the TS lasers on specific amplitudes and phases of NTM evolution. The MAST plasma control system can receive a separate triggermore » from the FPGA unit that initiates a vertical shift of the MAST magnetic axis. Such shifts have fully removed m/n= 2/1 NTMs instabilities on a number of MAST discharges.« less

A novel coil array for combined TMS/fMRI experiments at 3 T.

PubMed

Navarro de Lara, Lucia I; Windischberger, Christian; Kuehne, Andre; Woletz, Michael; Sieg, Jürgen; Bestmann, Sven; Weiskopf, Nikolaus; Strasser, Bernhard; Moser, Ewald; Laistler, Elmar

2015-11-01

To overcome current limitations in combined transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies by employing a dedicated coil array design for 3 Tesla. The state-of-the-art setup for concurrent TMS/fMRI is to use a large birdcage head coil, with the TMS between the subject's head and the MR coil. This setup has drawbacks in sensitivity, positioning, and available imaging techniques. In this study, an ultraslim 7-channel receive-only coil array for 3 T, which can be placed between the subject's head and the TMS, is presented. Interactions between the devices are investigated and the performance of the new setup is evaluated in comparison to the state-of-the-art setup. MR sensitivity obtained at the depth of the TMS stimulation is increased by a factor of five. Parallel imaging with an acceleration factor of two is feasible with low g-factors. Possible interactions between TMS and the novel hardware were investigated and were found negligible. The novel coil array is safe, strongly improves signal-to-noise ratio in concurrent TMS/fMRI experiments, enables parallel imaging, and allows for flexible positioning of the TMS on the head while ensuring efficient TMS stimulation due to its ultraslim design. © 2014 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

TH-A-BRF-11: Image Intensity Non-Uniformities Between MRI Simulation and Diagnostic MRI

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Paulson, E

2014-06-15

Purpose: MRI simulation for MRI-based radiotherapy demands that patients be setup in treatment position, which frequently involves use of alternative radiofrequency (RF) coil configurations to accommodate immobilized patients. However, alternative RF coil geometries may exacerbate image intensity non-uniformities (IINU) beyond those observed in diagnostic MRI, which may challenge image segmentation and registration accuracy as well as confound studies assessing radiotherapy response when MR simulation images are used as baselines for evaluation. The goal of this work was to determine whether differences in IINU exist between MR simulation and diagnostic MR images. Methods: ACR-MRI phantom images were acquired at 3T usingmore » a spin-echo sequence (TE/TR:20/500ms, rBW:62.5kHz, TH/skip:5/5mm). MR simulation images were obtained by wrapping two flexible phased-array RF coils around the phantom. Diagnostic MR images were obtained by placing the phantom into a commercial phased-array head coil. Pre-scan normalization was enabled in both cases. Images were transferred offline and corrected for IINU using the MNI N3 algorithm. Coefficients of variation (CV=σ/μ) were calculated for each slice. Wilcoxon matched-pairs and Mann-Whitney tests compared CV values between original and N3 images and between MR simulation and diagnostic MR images. Results: Significant differences in CV were detected between original and N3 images in both MRI simulation and diagnostic MRI groups (p=0.010, p=0.010). In addition, significant differences in CV were detected between original MR simulation and original and N3 diagnostic MR images (p=0.0256, p=0.0016). However, no significant differences in CV were detected between N3 MR simulation images and original or N3 diagnostic MR images, demonstrating the importance of correcting MR simulation images beyond pre-scan normalization prior to use in radiotherapy. Conclusions: Alternative RF coil configurations used in MRI simulation can Result in significant IINU differences compared to diagnostic MR images. The MNI N3 algorithm reduced MR simulation IINU to levels observed in diagnostic MR images. Funding provided by Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin.« less

Borehole induction coil transmitter

DOEpatents

Holladay, Gale; Wilt, Michael J.

2002-01-01

A borehole induction coil transmitter which is a part of a cross-borehole electromagnetic field system that is used for underground imaging applications. The transmitter consists of four major parts: 1) a wound ferrite or mu-metal core, 2) an array of tuning capacitors, 3) a current driver circuit board, and 4) a flux monitor. The core is wound with several hundred turns of wire and connected in series with the capacitor array, to produce a tuned coil. This tuned coil uses internal circuitry to generate sinusoidal signals that are transmitted through the earth to a receiver coil in another borehole. The transmitter can operate at frequencies from 1-200 kHz and supplies sufficient power to permit the field system to operate in boreholes separated by up to 400 meters.

A comparison study of different RF shields for an 8-element transceive small animal array at 9.4T.

PubMed

Jin, Jin; Li, Yu; Liu, Feng; Weber, Ewald; Crozier, Stuart

2011-01-01

In this study, three types of radio-frequency shields are studied and compared in the context of ultra-high field small-animal magnetic resonance imaging. It has been demonstrated that the coil penetration depth and mutual coupling between the coils depend heavily on the type of shield employed. The results were used to guide the design of a 9.4T 8-element transceive small animal array, which provides high overall coil penetration.

Optimization and Validation of Rotating Current Excitation with GMR Array Sensors for Riveted

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-16

distribution. Simulation results, using both an optimized coil and a conventional coil, are generated using the finite element method (FEM) model...optimized coil and a conventional coil, are generated using the finite element method (FEM) model. The signal magnitude for an optimized coil is seen to be...optimized coil. 4. Model Based Performance Analysis A 3D finite element model (FEM) is used to analyze the performance of the optimized coil and

Optimized 14 + 1 receive coil array and position system for 3D high-resolution MRI of dental and maxillomandibular structures.

PubMed

Sedlacik, Jan; Kutzner, Daniel; Khokale, Arun; Schulze, Dirk; Fiehler, Jens; Celik, Turgay; Gareis, Daniel; Smeets, Ralf; Friedrich, Reinhard E; Heiland, Max; Assaf, Alexandre T

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to design, build and test a multielement receive coil array and position system, which is optimized for three-dimensional (3D) high-resolution dental and maxillomandibular MRI with high patient comfort. A 14 + 1 coil array and positioning system, allowing easy handling by the technologists, reproducible positioning of the patients and high patient comfort, was tested with three healthy volunteers using a 3.0-T MRI machine (Siemens Skyra; Siemens Medical Solutions, Erlangen, Germany). High-resolution 3D T1 weighted, water excitation T1 weighted and fat-saturated T2 weighted imaging sequences were scanned, and 3D image data were reformatted in different orientations and curvatures to aid diagnosis. The high number of receiving coils and the comfortable positioning of the coil array close to the patient's face provided a high signal-to-noise ratio and allowed high quality, high resolution, 3D image data to be acquired within reasonable scan times owing to the possibility of parallel image acquisition acceleration. Reformatting the isotropic 3D image data in different views is helpful for diagnosis, e.g. panoramic reconstruction. The visibility of soft tissues such as the mandibular canal, nutritive canals and periodontal ligaments was exquisite. The optimized MRI receive coil array and positioning system for dental and oral-maxillofacial imaging provides a valuable tool for detecting and diagnosing pathologies in dental and oral-maxillofacial structures while avoiding radiation dose. The high patient comfort, as achieved by our design, is very crucial, since image artefacts due to movement or failing to complete the examination jeopardize the diagnostic value of MRI examinations.

New design concept of monopole antenna array for UHF 7T MRI.

PubMed

Hong, Suk-Min; Park, Joshua Haekyun; Woo, Myung-Kyun; Kim, Young-Bo; Cho, Zang-Hee

2014-05-01

We have developed and evaluated a monopole antenna array that can increase sensitivity at the center of the brain for 7T MRI applications. We have developed a monopole antenna array that has half the length of a conventional dipole antenna with eight channels for brain imaging with a 7T MRI. The eight-channel monopole antenna array and conventional eight-channel transceiver surface coil array were evaluated and compared in terms of transmit properties, specific absorption ratio (SAR), and sensitivity. The sensitivity maps were generated by dividing the SNR map by the flip angle distribution. A single surface coil provides asymmetric sensitivity resulting in reduced sensitivity at the center of the brain. In contrast, a single monopole antenna provides higher sensitivity at the center of the brain. Moreover, the monopole antenna array provides uniform sensitivity over the entire brain, and the sensitivity gain was 1.5 times higher at the center of the brain compared with the surface coil array. The monopole antenna array is a promising candidate for MRI applications, especially for brain imaging in a 7T MRI because it provides increased sensitivity at the center of the brain. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A novel coil array for combined TMS/fMRI experiments at 3 T

PubMed Central

Navarro de Lara, Lucia I.; Windischberger, Christian; Kuehne, Andre; Woletz, Michael; Sieg, Jürgen; Bestmann, Sven; Weiskopf, Nikolaus; Strasser, Bernhard; Moser, Ewald

2014-01-01

Purpose To overcome current limitations in combined transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies by employing a dedicated coil array design for 3 Tesla. Methods The state‐of‐the‐art setup for concurrent TMS/fMRI is to use a large birdcage head coil, with the TMS between the subject's head and the MR coil. This setup has drawbacks in sensitivity, positioning, and available imaging techniques. In this study, an ultraslim 7‐channel receive‐only coil array for 3 T, which can be placed between the subject's head and the TMS, is presented. Interactions between the devices are investigated and the performance of the new setup is evaluated in comparison to the state‐of‐the‐art setup. Results MR sensitivity obtained at the depth of the TMS stimulation is increased by a factor of five. Parallel imaging with an acceleration factor of two is feasible with low g‐factors. Possible interactions between TMS and the novel hardware were investigated and were found negligible. Conclusion The novel coil array is safe, strongly improves signal‐to‐noise ratio in concurrent TMS/fMRI experiments, enables parallel imaging, and allows for flexible positioning of the TMS on the head while ensuring efficient TMS stimulation due to its ultraslim design. Magn Reson Med 74:1492–1501, 2015. © 2014 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. PMID:25421603

Preliminary design of a superconducting coil array for NASA prototype magnetic balance. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alishahi, M. M.

1980-01-01

Using a computer program a partly optimized configuration for a supeconducting version of side and lift coil system of NASA-MIT prototype is presented. Cable size for the mentioned coils and also for superconducting drag and magnetizing coils regarding the overall computed field was determined.

Phased Array Focusing for Acoustic Wireless Power Transfer.

PubMed

Tseng, Victor Farm-Guoo; Bedair, Sarah S; Lazarus, Nathan

2018-01-01

Wireless power transfer (WPT) through acoustic waves can achieve higher efficiencies than inductive coupling when the distance is above several times the transducer size. This paper demonstrates the use of ultrasonic phased arrays to focus power to receivers at arbitrary locations to increase the power transfer efficiency. Using a phased array consisting of 37 elements at a distance nearly 5 times the receiver transducer diameter, a factor of 2.6 increase in efficiency was achieved when compared to a case equivalent to a single large transducer with the same peak efficiency distance. The array has a total diameter of 7 cm, and transmits through air at 40 kHz to a 1.1-cm diameter receiver, achieving a peak overall efficiency of 4% at a distance of 5 cm. By adjusting the focal distance, the efficiency can also be maintained relatively constant at distances up to 9 cm. Numerical models were developed and shown to closely match the experimental energy transfer behavior; modeling results indicate that the efficiency can be further doubled by increasing the number of elements. For comparison, an inductive WPT system was also built with the diameters of the transmitting and receiving coils equivalent to the dimensions of the transmitting ultrasonic phased array and receiver transducer, and the acoustic WPT system achieved higher efficiencies than the inductive WPT system when the transmit-to-receive distance is above 5 cm. In addition, beam angle steering was demonstrated by using a simplified seven-element 1-D array, achieving power transfer less dependent on receiver placement.

Ophthalmic magnetic resonance imaging at 7 T using a 6-channel transceiver radiofrequency coil array in healthy subjects and patients with intraocular masses.

PubMed

Graessl, Andreas; Muhle, Maximilian; Schwerter, Michael; Rieger, Jan; Oezerdem, Celal; Santoro, Davide; Lysiak, Darius; Winter, Lukas; Hezel, Fabian; Waiczies, Sonia; Guthoff, Rudolf F; Falke, Karen; Hosten, Norbert; Hadlich, Stefan; Krueger, Paul-Christian; Langner, Soenke; Stachs, Oliver; Niendorf, Thoralf

2014-05-01

This study was designed to examine the feasibility of ophthalmic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 7 T using a local 6-channel transmit/receive radiofrequency (RF) coil array in healthy volunteers and patients with intraocular masses. A novel 6-element transceiver RF coil array that makes uses of loop elements and that is customized for eye imaging at 7 T is proposed. Considerations influencing the RF coil design and the characteristics of the proposed RF coil array are presented. Numerical electromagnetic field simulations were conducted to enhance the RF coil characteristics. Specific absorption rate simulations and a thorough assessment of RF power deposition were performed to meet the safety requirements. Phantom experiments were carried out to validate the electromagnetic field simulations and to assess the real performance of the proposed transceiver array. Certified approval for clinical studies was provided by a local notified body before the in vivo studies. The suitability of the RF coil to image the human eye, optical nerve, and orbit was examined in an in vivo feasibility study including (a) 3-dimensional (3D) gradient echo (GRE) imaging, (b) inversion recovery 3D GRE imaging, and (c) 2D T2-weighted fast spin-echo imaging. For this purpose, healthy adult volunteers (n = 17; mean age, 34 ± 11 years) and patients with intraocular masses (uveal melanoma, n = 5; mean age, 57 ± 6 years) were investigated. All subjects tolerated all examinations well with no relevant adverse events. The 6-channel coil array supports high-resolution 3D GRE imaging with a spatial resolution as good as 0.2 × 0.2 × 1.0 mm, which facilitates the depiction of anatomical details of the eye. Rather, uniform signal intensity across the eye was found. A mean signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 35 was found for the lens, whereas the vitreous humor showed a signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 30. The lens-vitreous humor contrast-to-noise ratio was 8, which allows good differentiation between the lens and the vitreous compartment. Inversion recovery prepared 3D GRE imaging using a spatial resolution of 0.4 × 0.4 × 1.0 mm was found to be feasible. T2-weighted 2D fast spin-echo imaging with the proposed RF coil afforded a spatial resolution of 0.25 × 0.25 × 0.7 mm. This work provides valuable information on the feasibility of ophthalmic MRI at 7 T using a dedicated 6-channel transceiver coil array that supports the acquisition of high-contrast, high-spatial resolution images in healthy volunteers and patients with intraocular masses. The results underscore the challenges of ocular imaging at 7 T and demonstrate that these issues can be offset by using tailored RF coil hardware. The benefits of such improvements would be in positive alignment with explorations that are designed to examine the potential of MRI for the assessment of spatial arrangements of the eye segments and their masses with the ultimate goal to provide imaging means for guiding treatment decisions in ophthalmological diseases.

Quadrature transmit array design using single-feed circularly polarized patch antenna for parallel transmission in MR imaging.

PubMed

Pang, Yong; Yu, Baiying; Vigneron, Daniel B; Zhang, Xiaoliang

2014-02-01

Quadrature coils are often desired in MR applications because they can improve MR sensitivity and also reduce excitation power. In this work, we propose, for the first time, a quadrature array design strategy for parallel transmission at 298 MHz using single-feed circularly polarized (CP) patch antenna technique. Each array element is a nearly square ring microstrip antenna and is fed at a point on the diagonal of the antenna to generate quadrature magnetic fields. Compared with conventional quadrature coils, the single-feed structure is much simple and compact, making the quadrature coil array design practical. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the decoupling between elements is better than -35 dB for all the elements and the RF fields are homogeneous with deep penetration and quadrature behavior in the area of interest. Bloch equation simulation is also performed to simulate the excitation procedure by using an 8-element quadrature planar patch array to demonstrate its feasibility in parallel transmission at the ultrahigh field of 7 Tesla.

Magnetic Polarization Measurements of the Multi-modal Plasma Response to 3D fields in the EAST Tokamak

DOE PAGES

Logan, Nikolas; Cui, L.; Wang, Hui -Hui; ...

2018-04-30

A multi-modal plasma response to applied non-axisymmetric fields has been found in EAST tokamak plasmas. Here, multi-modal means the radial and poloidal structure of an individually driven toroidal harmonic is not fixed. The signature of such a multi-modal response is the magnetic polarization (ratio of radial and poloidal components) of the plasma response field measured on the low field side device mid-plane. A difference in the 3D coil phasing (the relative phase of two coil arrays) dependencies between the two responses is observed in response to n=2 fields in the same plasma for which the n=1 responses are well synchronized.more » Neither the maximum radial nor the maximum poloidal field response to n=2 fields agrees with the best applied phasing for mitigating edge localized modes, suggesting that the edge plasma response is not a dominant component of either polarization. GPEC modeling reproduces the discrepant phasing dependences of the experimental measurements, and confirms the edge resonances are maximized by the coil phasing that mitigates ELMs in the experiments. The model confirms the measured plasma response is not dominated by resonant current drive from the external field. Instead, non-resonant contributions play a large role in the diagnostic signal for both toroidal harmonics n=1 and n=2. The analysis in this paper demonstrates the ability of 3D modeling to connect external magnetic sensor measurements to the internal plasma physics and accurately predict optimal applied 3D field configurations in multi-modal plasmas.« less

Magnetic Polarization Measurements of the Multi-modal Plasma Response to 3D fields in the EAST Tokamak

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Logan, Nikolas; Cui, L.; Wang, Hui -Hui

A multi-modal plasma response to applied non-axisymmetric fields has been found in EAST tokamak plasmas. Here, multi-modal means the radial and poloidal structure of an individually driven toroidal harmonic is not fixed. The signature of such a multi-modal response is the magnetic polarization (ratio of radial and poloidal components) of the plasma response field measured on the low field side device mid-plane. A difference in the 3D coil phasing (the relative phase of two coil arrays) dependencies between the two responses is observed in response to n=2 fields in the same plasma for which the n=1 responses are well synchronized.more » Neither the maximum radial nor the maximum poloidal field response to n=2 fields agrees with the best applied phasing for mitigating edge localized modes, suggesting that the edge plasma response is not a dominant component of either polarization. GPEC modeling reproduces the discrepant phasing dependences of the experimental measurements, and confirms the edge resonances are maximized by the coil phasing that mitigates ELMs in the experiments. The model confirms the measured plasma response is not dominated by resonant current drive from the external field. Instead, non-resonant contributions play a large role in the diagnostic signal for both toroidal harmonics n=1 and n=2. The analysis in this paper demonstrates the ability of 3D modeling to connect external magnetic sensor measurements to the internal plasma physics and accurately predict optimal applied 3D field configurations in multi-modal plasmas.« less

A new method in accelerating PROPELLER MRI.

PubMed

Li, Bing Keong; D'Arcy, Michael; Weber, Ewald; Crozier, Stuart

2008-01-01

In this work, a new method has been proposed to accelerate the PROPELLER MRI operation. The proposed method uses a rotary phased array coil and a new method in acquiring the k-space strips and preparing the complete k-space trajectories data set. It is numerically shown that for a 12 strips PROPELLER MR brain imaging sequence, the operation time can be reduced by four folds, with no apparent loss in the image quality.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Phosphocreatine and Determination of BOLD Kinetics in Lower Extremity Muscles using a Dual-Frequency Coil Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Ryan; Khegai, Oleksandr; Parasoglou, Prodromos

2016-07-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides the unique ability to study metabolic and microvasculature functions in skeletal muscle using phosphorus and proton measurements. However, the low sensitivity of these techniques can make it difficult to capture dynamic muscle activity due to the temporal resolution required for kinetic measurements during and after exercise tasks. Here, we report the design of a dual-nuclei coil array that enables proton and phosphorus MRI of the human lower extremities with high spatial and temporal resolution. We developed an array with whole-volume coverage of the calf and a phosphorus signal-to-noise ratio of more than double that of a birdcage coil in the gastrocnemius muscles. This enabled the local assessment of phosphocreatine recovery kinetics following a plantar flexion exercise using an efficient sampling scheme with a 6 s temporal resolution. The integrated proton array demonstrated image quality approximately equal to that of a clinical state-of-the-art knee coil, which enabled fat quantification and dynamic blood oxygen level-dependent measurements that reflect microvasculature function. The developed array and time-efficient pulse sequences were combined to create a localized assessment of calf metabolism using phosphorus measurements and vasculature function using proton measurements, which could provide new insights into muscle function.

Multiple-Coil, Pulse-Induction Metal Detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lesky, Edward S.; Reid, Alan M.; Bushong, Wilton E.; Dickey, Duane P.

1988-01-01

Multiple-head, pulse-induction metal detector scans area of 72 feet squared with combination of eight detector heads, each 3 ft. square. Head includes large primary coil inducing current in smaller secondary coils. Array of eight heads enables searcher to cover large area quickly. Pulses applied to primary coil, induced in secondary coils measured to determine whether metal present within range of detector head. Detector designed for recovery of Space Shuttle debris.

Dental MRI using a dedicated RF-coil at 3 Tesla.

PubMed

Prager, Marcel; Heiland, Sabine; Gareis, Daniel; Hilgenfeld, Tim; Bendszus, Martin; Gaudino, Chiara

2015-12-01

To assess the benefit of a dedicated surface coil to visualize dental structures in comparison to standard head/neck coil. Measurements were performed using the standard head/neck coil and a dedicated array coil for dental MRI at 3 T. As MRI methods, we used a T1-weighted spin-echo sequence with and without spectral fat saturation, a T2-weighted turbo-spin-echo sequence and a 3-dimensional T2-weighted SPACE sequence. Measurements were performed in a phantom to examine sensitivity profiles. Then the signal gain in dental structures was examined in volunteers and in a patient. As expected for a surface coil, the signal gain of the dental coil was highest at the surface of the phantom and decreased with increasing distance to the coil; it was >120% even at a depth of 30 mm, measured from the centre of the coil. The signal gain within the pulp of the volunteers ranged between 236 and 413%. The dedicated array coil offers a significantly higher signal within the region of interest for dental MR imaging thus allowing for better depiction of pathologies within the periodontium and for delineation and tracking of the branches of the maxillary and mandibular nerves. Copyright © 2015 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pulsed magnetization transfer imaging with body coil transmission at 3 Tesla: feasibility and application.

PubMed

Smith, Seth A; Farrell, Jonathan A D; Jones, Craig K; Reich, Daniel S; Calabresi, Peter A; van Zijl, Peter C M

2006-10-01

Pulsed magnetization transfer (MT) imaging has been applied to quantitatively assess brain pathology in several diseases, especially multiple sclerosis (MS). To date, however, because of the high power deposition associated with the use of short, rapidly repeating MT prepulses, clinical application has been limited to lower field strengths. The contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of MT is limited, and this method would greatly benefit from the use of higher magnetic fields and phased-array coil reception. However, power deposition is proportional to the square of the magnetic field and scales with coil size, and MT experiments are already close to the SAR limit at 1.5T even when smaller transmit coils are used instead of the body coil. Here we show that these seemingly great obstacles can be ameliorated by the increased T(1) of tissue water at higher field, which allows for longer maintenance of sufficiently high saturation levels while using a reduced duty cycle. This enables a fast (5-6 min) high-resolution (1.5 mm isotropic) whole-brain MT acquisition with excellent anatomical visualization of gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) structures, and even substructures. The method is demonstrated in nine normal volunteers and five patients with relapsing remitting MS (RRMS), and the results show a clear delineation of heterogeneous lesions.

Airfoil-based electromagnetic energy harvester containing parallel array motion between moving coil and multi-pole magnets towards enhanced power density.

PubMed

Leung, Chung Ming; Wang, Ya; Chen, Wusi

2016-11-01

In this letter, the airfoil-based electromagnetic energy harvester containing parallel array motion between moving coil and trajectory matching multi-pole magnets was investigated. The magnets were aligned in an alternatively magnetized formation of 6 magnets to explore enhanced power density. In particular, the magnet array was positioned in parallel to the trajectory of the tip coil within its tip deflection span. The finite element simulations of the magnetic flux density and induced voltages at an open circuit condition were studied to find the maximum number of alternatively magnetized magnets that was required for the proposed energy harvester. Experimental results showed that the energy harvester with a pair of 6 alternatively magnetized linear magnet arrays was able to generate an induced voltage (V o ) of 20 V, with an open circuit condition, and 475 mW, under a 30 Ω optimal resistance load operating with the wind speed (U) at 7 m/s and a natural bending frequency of 3.54 Hz. Compared to the traditional electromagnetic energy harvester with a single magnet moving through a coil, the proposed energy harvester, containing multi-pole magnets and parallel array motion, enables the moving coil to accumulate a stronger magnetic flux in each period of the swinging motion. In addition to the comparison made with the airfoil-based piezoelectric energy harvester of the same size, our proposed electromagnetic energy harvester generates 11 times more power output, which is more suitable for high-power-density energy harvesting applications at regions with low environmental frequency.

A 4-channel coil array interconnection by analog direct modulation optical link for 1.5-T MRI.

PubMed

Yuan, Jing; Wei, Juan; Shen, Gary X

2008-10-01

Optical glass fiber shows great advantages over coaxial cables in terms of electromagnetic interference, thus, it should be considered a potential alternative for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) receive coil interconnection, especially for a large number coil array at high field. In this paper, we propose a 4-channel analog direct modulation optical link for a 1.5-T MRI coil array interconnection. First, a general direct modulated optical link is compared to an external modulated optical link. And then the link performances of the proposed direct modulated optical link, including power gain, frequency response, and dynamic range, are analyzed and measured. Phantom and in vivo head images obtained using this optical link are demonstrated for comparison with those obtained by cable connections. The signal-to-noise (SNR) analysis shows that the optical link achieves 6%-8% SNR a improvement over coaxial cables by elimination of electrical interference between cables during MR signal transmission.

3.0 Tesla high spatial resolution contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) of the pulmonary circulation: initial experience with a 32-channel phased array coil using a high relaxivity contrast agent.

PubMed

Nael, Kambiz; Fenchel, Michael; Krishnam, Mayil; Finn, J Paul; Laub, Gerhard; Ruehm, Stefan G

2007-06-01

To evaluate the technical feasibility of high spatial resolution contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) with highly accelerated parallel acquisition at 3.0 T using a 32-channel phased array coil, and a high relaxivity contrast agent. Ten adult healthy volunteers (5 men, 5 women, aged 21-66 years) underwent high spatial resolution CE-MRA of the pulmonary circulation. Imaging was performed at 3 T using a 32-channel phase array coil. After intravenous injection of 1 mL of gadobenate dimeglumine (Gd-BOPTA) at 1.5 mL/s, a timing bolus was used to measure the transit time from the arm vein to the main pulmonary artery. Subsequently following intravenous injection of 0.1 mmol/kg of Gd-BOPTA at the same rate, isotropic high spatial resolution data sets (1 x 1 x 1 mm3) CE-MRA of the entire pulmonary circulation were acquired using a fast gradient-recalled echo sequence (TR/TE 3/1.2 milliseconds, FA 18 degrees) and highly accelerated parallel acquisition (GRAPPA x 6) during a 20-second breath hold. The presence of artifact, noise, and image quality of the pulmonary arterial segments were evaluated independently by 2 radiologists. Phantom measurements were performed to assess the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Statistical analysis of data was performed by using Wilcoxon rank sum test and 2-sample Student t test. The interobserver variability was tested by kappa coefficient. All studies were of diagnostic quality as determined by both observers. The pulmonary arteries were routinely identified up to fifth-order branches, with definition in the diagnostic range and excellent interobserver agreement (kappa = 0.84, 95% confidence interval 0.77-0.90). Phantom measurements showed significantly lower SNR (P < 0.01) using GRAPPA (17.3 +/- 18.8) compared with measurements without parallel acquisition (58 +/- 49.4). The described 3 T CE-MRA protocol in addition to high T1 relaxivity of Gd-BOPTA provides sufficient SNR to support highly accelerated parallel acquisition (GRAPPA x 6), resulting in acquisition of isotopic (1 x 1 x 1 mm3) voxels over the entire pulmonary circulation in 20 seconds.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jayakumar, R.; Martovetsky, N.N.; Perfect, S.A.

A glass-polyimide insulation system has been proposed by the US team for use in the Central Solenoid (CS) coil of the international Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) machine and it is planned to use this system in the CS model coil inner module. The turn insulation will consist of 2 layers of combined prepreg and Kapton. Each layer is 50% overlapped with a butt wrap of prepreg and an overwrap of S glass. The coil layers will be separated by a glass-resin composite and impregnated in a VPI process. Small scale tests on the various components of the insulation are complete.more » It is planned to fabricate and test the insulation in a 4 x 4 insulated CS conductor array which will include the layer insulation and be vacuum impregnated. The conductor array will be subjected to 20 thermal cycles and 100000 mechanical load cycles in a Liquid Nitrogen environment. These loads are similar to those seen in the CS coil design. The insulation will be electrically tested at several stages during mechanical testing. This paper will describe the array configuration, fabrication: process, instrumentation, testing configuration, and supporting analyses used in selecting the array and test configurations.« less

A 128-channel receive-only cardiac coil for highly accelerated cardiac MRI at 3 Tesla.

PubMed

Schmitt, Melanie; Potthast, Andreas; Sosnovik, David E; Polimeni, Jonathan R; Wiggins, Graham C; Triantafyllou, Christina; Wald, Lawrence L

2008-06-01

A 128-channel receive-only array coil is described and tested for cardiac imaging at 3T. The coil is closely contoured to the body with a "clam-shell" geometry with 68 posterior and 60 anterior elements, each 75 mm in diameter, and arranged in a continuous overlapped array of hexagonal symmetry to minimize nearest neighbor coupling. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and noise amplification for parallel imaging (G-factor) were evaluated in phantom and volunteer experiments. These results were compared to those of commercially available 24-channel and 32-channel coils in routine use for cardiac imaging. The in vivo measurements with the 128-channel coil resulted in SNR gains compared to the 24-channel coil (up to 2.2-fold in the apex). The 128- and 32-channel coils showed similar SNR in the heart, likely dominated by the similar element diameters of these coils. The maximum G-factor values were up to seven times better for a seven-fold acceleration factor (R=7) compared to the 24-channel coil and up to two-fold improved compared to the 32-channel coil. The ability of the 128-channel coil to facilitate highly accelerated cardiac imaging was demonstrated in four volunteers using acceleration factors up to seven-fold (R=7) in a single spatial dimension. Copyright (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Performance of a 12-coil superconducting bumpy torus magnet facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, J. R.; Holmes, A. D.; Keller, T. A.; Krawczonek, W. M.

1972-01-01

The bumpy torus facility consists of 12 superconducting coils, each 19 cm i.d. and capable of 3.0 teslas on their axes. The coils are equally spaced around a toroidal array with a major diameter of 1.52 m, and are mounted with the major axis of the torus vertical in a single vacuum tank 2.6 m in diameter. Final shakedown tests of the facility mapped out its magnetic, cryogenic, vacuum, mechanical, and electrical performance. The facility is now ready for use as a plasma physics research facility. A maximum magnetic field on the magnetic axis of 3.23 teslas was held for a period of more than sixty minutes without a coil normalcy. The design field was 3.00 teslas. The steady-state liquid helium boil-off rate was 87 liters per hour of liquid helium without the coils charged. The coil array was stable when subjected to an impulsive loading, even with the magnets fully charged. When the coils were charged to a maximum magnetic field of 3.35 teslas, the system was driven normal without damage.

Phased Array Technology with Phase and Amplitude Controlled Magnetron for Microwave Power Transmission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shinohara, N.; Matsumoto, H.

2004-12-01

We need a microwave power transmitter with light weight and high DC-RF conversion efficiency for an economical SSPS (Space Solar Power System). We need a several g/W for a microwave power transmission (MPT) system with a phased array with 0.0001 degree of beam control accuracy (=tan-1 (100m/36,000km)) and over 80 % of DC-RF conversion efficiency when the weight of the 1GW-class SPS is below a several thousand ton - a several tens of thousand ton. We focus a microwave tube, especially magnetron by economical reason and by the amount of mass-production because it is commonly used for microwave oven in the world. At first, we have developed a phase controlled magnetron (PCM) with different technologies from what Dr. Brown developed. Next we have developed a phase and amplitude controlled magnetron (PACM). For the PACM, we add a feedback to magnetic field of the PCM with an external coil to control and stabilize amplitude of the microwave. We succeed to develop the PACM with below 10-6 of frequency stability and within 1 degree of an error in phase and within 1% of amplitude. We can control a phase and amplitude of the PACM and we have developed a phased array the PCMs. With the PCM technology, we have developed a small light weight MPT transmitter COMET (Compact Microwave Energy Transmitter) with consideration of heat radiation for space use and with consideration of mobility to space.

Local Multi-Channel RF Surface Coil versus Body RF Coil Transmission for Cardiac Magnetic Resonance at 3 Tesla: Which Configuration Is Winning the Game?

PubMed

Weinberger, Oliver; Winter, Lukas; Dieringer, Matthias A; Els, Antje; Oezerdem, Celal; Rieger, Jan; Kuehne, Andre; Cassara, Antonino M; Pfeiffer, Harald; Wetterling, Friedrich; Niendorf, Thoralf

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of cardiac MR at 3 Tesla using local four-channel RF coil transmission and benchmark it against large volume body RF coil excitation. Electromagnetic field simulations are conducted to detail RF power deposition, transmission field uniformity and efficiency for local and body RF coil transmission. For both excitation regimes transmission field maps are acquired in a human torso phantom. For each transmission regime flip angle distributions and blood-myocardium contrast are examined in a volunteer study of 12 subjects. The feasibility of the local transceiver RF coil array for cardiac chamber quantification at 3 Tesla is demonstrated. Our simulations and experiments demonstrate that cardiac MR at 3 Tesla using four-channel surface RF coil transmission is competitive versus current clinical CMR practice of large volume body RF coil transmission. The efficiency advantage of the 4TX/4RX setup facilitates shorter repetition times governed by local SAR limits versus body RF coil transmission at whole-body SAR limit. No statistically significant difference was found for cardiac chamber quantification derived with body RF coil versus four-channel surface RF coil transmission. Our simulation also show that the body RF coil exceeds local SAR limits by a factor of ~2 when driven at maximum applicable input power to reach the whole-body SAR limit. Pursuing local surface RF coil arrays for transmission in cardiac MR is a conceptually appealing alternative to body RF coil transmission, especially for patients with implants.

Intensity correction for multichannel hyperpolarized 13C imaging of the heart.

PubMed

Dominguez-Viqueira, William; Geraghty, Benjamin J; Lau, Justin Y C; Robb, Fraser J; Chen, Albert P; Cunningham, Charles H

2016-02-01

Develop and test an analytic correction method to correct the signal intensity variation caused by the inhomogeneous reception profile of an eight-channel phased array for hyperpolarized (13) C imaging. Fiducial markers visible in anatomical images were attached to the individual coils to provide three dimensional localization of the receive hardware with respect to the image frame of reference. The coil locations and dimensions were used to numerically model the reception profile using the Biot-Savart Law. The accuracy of the coil sensitivity estimation was validated with images derived from a homogenous (13) C phantom. Numerical coil sensitivity estimates were used to perform intensity correction of in vivo hyperpolarized (13) C cardiac images in pigs. In comparison to the conventional sum-of-squares reconstruction, improved signal uniformity was observed in the corrected images. The analytical intensity correction scheme was shown to improve the uniformity of multichannel image reconstruction in hyperpolarized [1-(13) C]pyruvate and (13) C-bicarbonate cardiac MRI. The method is independent of the pulse sequence used for (13) C data acquisition, simple to implement and does not require additional scan time, making it an attractive technique for multichannel hyperpolarized (13) C MRI. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Three-layered radio frequency coil arrangement for sodium MRI of the human brain at 9.4 Tesla.

PubMed

Shajan, G; Mirkes, Christian; Buckenmaier, Kai; Hoffmann, Jens; Pohmann, Rolf; Scheffler, Klaus

2016-02-01

A multinuclei imaging setup with the capability to acquire both sodium ((23) Na) and proton ((1) H) signals at 9.4 Tesla is presented. The main objective was to optimize coil performance at the (23) Na frequency while still having the ability to acquire satisfactory (1) H images. The setup consisted of a combination of three radio frequency (RF) coils arranged in three layers: the innermost layer was a 27-channel (23) Na receive helmet which was surrounded by a four-channel (23) Na transceiver array. The outer layer consisted of a four-channel (1) H dipole array for B0 shimming and anatomical localization. Transmit and receive performance of the (23) Na arrays was compared to a single-tuned (23) Na birdcage resonator. While the transmit efficiency of the (23) Na transceiver array was comparable to the birdcage, the (23) Na receive array provided substantial signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) gain near the surface and comparable SNR in the center. The utility of this customized setup was demonstrated by (23) Na images of excellent quality. High SNR, efficient transmit excitation and B0 shimming capability can be achieved for (23) Na MRI at 9.4T using novel coil combination. This RF configuration is easily adaptable to other multinuclei applications at ultra high field (≥ 7T). © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meinke, Rainer B.; Goodzeit, Carl L.; Ball, Millicent J.

This research project advanced the development of reliable, cost-effective arrays of superconducting quadrupole magnets for use in multi-beam inertial fusion accelerators. The field in each array cell must be identical and meet stringent requirements for field quality and strength. An optimized compact array design using flat double-layer pancake coils was developed. Analytical studies of edge termination methods showed that it is feasible to meet the requirements for field uniformity in all cells and elimination of stray external field in several ways: active methods that involve placement of field compensating coils on the periphery of the array or a passive methodmore » that involves use of iron shielding.« less

An eight-channel T/R head coil for parallel transmit MRI at 3T using ultra-low output impedance amplifiers

PubMed Central

Moody, Katherine Lynn; Hollingsworth, Neal A.; Zhao, Feng; Nielsen, Jon-Fredrik; Noll, Douglas C.; Wright, Steven M.; McDougall, Mary Preston

2014-01-01

Parallel transmit is an emerging technology to address the technical challenges associated with MR imaging at high field strengths. When developing arrays for parallel transmit systems, one of the primary factors to be considered is the mechanism to manage coupling and create independently operating channels. Recent work has demonstrated the use of amplifiers to provide some or all of the channel-to-channel isolation, reducing the need for on-coil decoupling networks in a manner analogous to the use of isolation preamplifiers with receive coils. This paper discusses an eight-channel transmit/receive head array for use with an ultra-low output impedance (ULOI) parallel transmit system. The ULOI amplifiers eliminated the need for a complex lumped element network to decouple the eight rung array. The design and construction details of the array are discussed in addition to the measurement considerations required for appropriately characterizing an array when using ULOI amplifiers. B1 maps and coupling matrices are used to verify the performance of the system. PMID:25072190

An eight-channel T/R head coil for parallel transmit MRI at 3T using ultra-low output impedance amplifiers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moody, Katherine Lynn; Hollingsworth, Neal A.; Zhao, Feng; Nielsen, Jon-Fredrik; Noll, Douglas C.; Wright, Steven M.; McDougall, Mary Preston

2014-09-01

Parallel transmit is an emerging technology to address the technical challenges associated with MR imaging at high field strengths. When developing arrays for parallel transmit systems, one of the primary factors to be considered is the mechanism to manage coupling and create independently operating channels. Recent work has demonstrated the use of amplifiers to provide some or all of the channel-to-channel isolation, reducing the need for on-coil decoupling networks in a manner analogous to the use of isolation preamplifiers with receive coils. This paper discusses an eight-channel transmit/receive head array for use with an ultra-low output impedance (ULOI) parallel transmit system. The ULOI amplifiers eliminated the need for a complex lumped element network to decouple the eight-rung array. The design and construction details of the array are discussed in addition to the measurement considerations required for appropriately characterizing an array when using ULOI amplifiers. B1 maps and coupling matrices are used to verify the performance of the system.

Magnetic polarization measurements of the multi-modal plasma response to 3D fields in the EAST tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Logan, N. C.; Cui, L.; Wang, H.; Sun, Y.; Gu, S.; Li, G.; Nazikian, R.; Paz-Soldan, C.

2018-07-01

A multi-modal plasma response to applied non-axisymmetric fields has been found in EAST tokamak plasmas. Here, multi-modal means the radial and poloidal structure of an individually driven toroidal harmonic is not fixed. The signature of such a multi-modal response is the magnetic polarization (ratio of radial and poloidal components) of the plasma response field measured on the low field side device mid-plane. A difference in the 3D coil phasing (the relative phase of two coil arrays) dependencies between the two responses is observed in response to n  =  2 fields in the same plasma for which the n  =  1 responses are well synchronized. Neither the maximum radial nor the maximum poloidal field response to n  =  2 fields agrees with the best applied phasing for mitigating edge localized modes, suggesting that the edge plasma response is not a dominant component of either polarization. GPEC modeling reproduces the discrepant phasing dependences of the experimental measurements, and confirms the edge resonances are maximized by the coil phasing that mitigates ELMs in the experiments. The model confirms the measured plasma response is not dominated by resonant current drive from the external field. Instead, non-resonant contributions play a large role in the diagnostic signal for both toroidal harmonics n  =  1 and n  =  2. The analysis in this paper demonstrates the ability of 3D modeling to connect external magnetic sensor measurements to the internal plasma physics and accurately predict optimal applied 3D field configurations in multi-modal plasmas.

Active control of multiple resistive wall modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brunsell, P. R.; Yadikin, D.; Gregoratto, D.; Paccagnella, R.; Liu, Y. Q.; Bolzonella, T.; Cecconello, M.; Drake, J. R.; Kuldkepp, M.; Manduchi, G.; Marchiori, G.; Marrelli, L.; Martin, P.; Menmuir, S.; Ortolani, S.; Rachlew, E.; Spizzo, G.; Zanca, P.

2005-12-01

A two-dimensional array of saddle coils at Mc poloidal and Nc toroidal positions is used on the EXTRAP T2R reversed-field pinch (Brunsell P R et al 2001 Plasma Phys. Control. Fusion 43 1457) to study active control of resistive wall modes (RWMs). Spontaneous growth of several RWMs with poloidal mode number m = 1 and different toroidal mode number n is observed experimentally, in agreement with linear MHD modelling. The measured plasma response to a controlled coil field and the plasma response computed using the linear circular cylinder MHD model are in quantitive agreement. Feedback control introduces a linear coupling of modes with toroidal mode numbers n, n' that fulfil the condition |n - n'| = Nc. Pairs of coupled unstable RWMs are present in feedback experiments with an array of Mc × Nc = 4 × 16 coils. Using intelligent shell feedback, the coupled modes are generally not controlled even though the field is suppressed at the active coils. A better suppression of coupled modes may be achieved in the case of rotating modes by using the mode control feedback scheme with individually set complex gains. In feedback with a larger array of Mc × Nc = 4 × 32 coils, the coupling effect largely disappears, and with this array, the main internal RWMs n = -11, -10, +5, +6 are all simultaneously suppressed throughout the discharge (7 8 wall times). With feedback there is a two-fold extension of the pulse length, compared to discharges without feedback.

A Fully Integrated Dual-Channel On-Coil CMOS Receiver for Array Coils in 1.5-10.5 T MRI.

PubMed

Sporrer, Benjamin; Wu, Lianbo; Bettini, Luca; Vogt, Christian; Reber, Jonas; Marjanovic, Josip; Burger, Thomas; Brunner, David O; Pruessmann, Klaas P; Troster, Gerhard; Huang, Qiuting

2017-12-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is among the most important medical imaging modalities. Coil arrays and receivers with high channel counts (16 and more) have to be deployed to obtain the image quality and acquisition speed required by modern clinical protocols. In this paper, we report the theoretical analysis, the system-level design, and the circuit implementation of the first receiver IC (RXIC) for clinical MRI fully integrated in a modern CMOS technology. The dual-channel RXIC sits directly on the sensor coil, thus eliminating any RF cable otherwise required to transport the information out of the magnetic field. The first stage LNA was implemented using a noise-canceling architecture providing a highly reflective input used to decouple the individual channels of the array. Digitization is performed directly on-chip at base-band by means of a delta-sigma modulator, allowing the subsequent optical transmission of data. The presented receiver, implemented in a CMOS technology, is compatible with MRI scanners up to . It reaches sub- noise figure for MRI units and features a dynamic range up to at a power consumption below per channel, with an area occupation of . Mounted on a small-sized printed circuit board (PCB), the receiver IC has been employed in a commercial MRI scanner to acquire in-vivo images matching the quality of traditional systems, demonstrating the first step toward multichannel wearable MRI array coils.

A quantitative experimental phantom study on MRI image uniformity.

PubMed

Felemban, Doaa; Verdonschot, Rinus G; Iwamoto, Yuri; Uchiyama, Yuka; Kakimoto, Naoya; Kreiborg, Sven; Murakami, Shumei

2018-05-23

Our goal was to assess MR image uniformity by investigating aspects influencing said uniformity via a method laid out by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Six metallic materials embedded in a glass phantom were scanned (i.e. Au, Ag, Al, Au-Ag-Pd alloy, Ti and Co-Cr alloy) as well as a reference image. Sequences included spin echo (SE) and gradient echo (GRE) scanned in three planes (i.e. axial, coronal, and sagittal). Moreover, three surface coil types (i.e. head and neck, Brain, and temporomandibular joint coils) and two image correction methods (i.e. surface coil intensity correction or SCIC, phased array uniformity enhancement or PURE) were employed to evaluate their effectiveness on image uniformity. Image uniformity was assessed using the National Electrical Manufacturers Association peak-deviation non-uniformity method. Results showed that temporomandibular joint coils elicited the least uniform image and brain coils outperformed head and neck coils when metallic materials were present. Additionally, when metallic materials were present, spin echo outperformed gradient echo especially for Co-Cr (particularly in the axial plane). Furthermore, both SCIC and PURE improved image uniformity compared to uncorrected images, and SCIC slightly surpassed PURE when metallic metals were present. Lastly, Co-Cr elicited the least uniform image while other metallic materials generally showed similar patterns (i.e. no significant deviation from images without metallic metals). Overall, a quantitative understanding of the factors influencing MR image uniformity (e.g. coil type, imaging method, metal susceptibility, and post-hoc correction method) is advantageous to optimize image quality, assists clinical interpretation, and may result in improved medical and dental care.

16-channel bow tie antenna transceiver array for cardiac MR at 7.0 tesla.

PubMed

Oezerdem, Celal; Winter, Lukas; Graessl, Andreas; Paul, Katharina; Els, Antje; Weinberger, Oliver; Rieger, Jan; Kuehne, Andre; Dieringer, Matthias; Hezel, Fabian; Voit, Dirk; Frahm, Jens; Niendorf, Thoralf

2016-06-01

To design, evaluate, and apply a bow tie antenna transceiver radiofrequency (RF) coil array tailored for cardiac MRI at 7.0 Tesla (T). The radiofrequency (RF) coil array comprises 16 building blocks each containing a bow tie shaped λ/2-dipole antenna. Numerical simulations were used for transmission field homogenization and RF safety validation. RF characteristics were examined in a phantom study. The array's suitability for high spatial resolution two-dimensional (2D) CINE imaging and for real time imaging of the heart was examined in a volunteer study. The arrays transmission fields and RF characteristics are suitable for cardiac MRI at 7.0T. The coil performance afforded a spatial resolution as good as (0.8 × 0.8 × 2.5) mm(3) for segmented 2D CINE MRI at 7.0T which is by a factor of 12 superior versus standardized protocols used in clinical practice at 1.5T. The proposed transceiver array supports 1D acceleration factors of up to R = 6 without impairing image quality significantly. The 16-channel bow tie antenna transceiver array supports accelerated and high spatial resolution cardiac MRI. The array is compatible with multichannel transmission and provides a technological basis for future clinical assessment of parallel transmission techniques at 7.0 Tesla. Magn Reson Med 75:2553-2565, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Variable-delay Polarization Modulators for the CLASS Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harrington, Kathleen; Ali, A.; Amiri, M.; Appel, J. W.; Araujo, D.; Bennett, C. L.; Boone, F.; Chan, M.; Cho, H.; Chuss, D. T.; Colazo, F.; Crowe, E.; Denis, K.; Dünner, R.; Eimer, J.; Essinger-Hileman, T.; Gothe, D.; Halpern, M.; Hilton, G.; Hinshaw, G. F.; Huang, C.; Irwin, K.; Jones, G.; Karakla, J.; Kogut, A. J.; Larson, D.; Limon, M.; Lowry, L.; Marriage, T.; Mehrle, N.; Miller, A. D.; Miller, N.; Mirel, P.; Moseley, S. H.; Novak, G.; Reintsema, C.; Rostem, K.; Stevenson, T.; Towner, D.; U-Yen, K.; Wagner, E.; Watts, D.; Wollack, E.; Xu, Z.; Zeng, L.

2014-01-01

The challenges of measuring faint polarized signals at microwave wavelengths have motivated the development of rapid polarization modulators. One scalable technique, called a Variable-delay Polarization Modulator (VPM), consists of a stationary wire array in front of a movable mirror. The mirror motion creates a changing phase difference between the polarization modes parallel and orthogonal to the wire array. The Cosmology Large Angular Scale Surveyor (CLASS) will use a VPM as the first optical element in a telescope array that will search for the signature of inflation through the “B-mode” pattern in the polarization of the cosmic microwave background. In the CLASS VPMs, parallel transport of the mirror is maintained by a voice-coil actuated flexure system which will translate the mirror in a repeatable manner while holding tight parallelism constraints with respect to the wire array. The wire array will use 51 μm diameter copper-plated tungsten wire with 160 μm pitch over a 60 cm clear aperture. We present the status of the construction and testing of the mirror transport mechanism and wire arrays for the CLASS VPMs.

Automated tuning of an eight-channel cardiac transceive array at 7 tesla using piezoelectric actuators.

PubMed

Keith, Graeme A; Rodgers, Christopher T; Hess, Aaron T; Snyder, Carl J; Vaughan, J Thomas; Robson, Matthew D

2015-06-01

Ultra-high field (UHF) MR scanning in the body requires novel coil designs due to B1 field inhomogeneities. In the transverse electromagnetic field (TEM) design, maximum B1 transmit power can only be achieved if each individual transmit element is tuned and matched for different coil loads, which requires a considerable amount of valuable scanner time. An integrated system for autotuning a multichannel parallel transmit (pTx) cardiac TEM array was devised, using piezoelectric actuators, power monitoring equipment and control software. The reproducibility and performance of the system were tested and the power responses of the coil elements were profiled. An automated optimization method was devised and evaluated. The time required to tune an eight-element pTx cardiac RF array was reduced from a mean of 30 min to less than 10 min with the use of this system. Piezoelectric actuators are an attractive means of tuning RF coil arrays to yield more efficient B1 transmission into the subject. An automated mechanism for tuning these elements provides a practical solution for cardiac imaging at UHF, bringing this technology closer to clinical use. © 2014 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Local Multi-Channel RF Surface Coil versus Body RF Coil Transmission for Cardiac Magnetic Resonance at 3 Tesla: Which Configuration Is Winning the Game?

PubMed Central

Winter, Lukas; Dieringer, Matthias A.; Els, Antje; Oezerdem, Celal; Rieger, Jan; Kuehne, Andre; Cassara, Antonino M.; Pfeiffer, Harald; Wetterling, Friedrich; Niendorf, Thoralf

2016-01-01

Introduction The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of cardiac MR at 3 Tesla using local four-channel RF coil transmission and benchmark it against large volume body RF coil excitation. Methods Electromagnetic field simulations are conducted to detail RF power deposition, transmission field uniformity and efficiency for local and body RF coil transmission. For both excitation regimes transmission field maps are acquired in a human torso phantom. For each transmission regime flip angle distributions and blood-myocardium contrast are examined in a volunteer study of 12 subjects. The feasibility of the local transceiver RF coil array for cardiac chamber quantification at 3 Tesla is demonstrated. Results Our simulations and experiments demonstrate that cardiac MR at 3 Tesla using four-channel surface RF coil transmission is competitive versus current clinical CMR practice of large volume body RF coil transmission. The efficiency advantage of the 4TX/4RX setup facilitates shorter repetition times governed by local SAR limits versus body RF coil transmission at whole-body SAR limit. No statistically significant difference was found for cardiac chamber quantification derived with body RF coil versus four-channel surface RF coil transmission. Our simulation also show that the body RF coil exceeds local SAR limits by a factor of ~2 when driven at maximum applicable input power to reach the whole-body SAR limit. Conclusion Pursuing local surface RF coil arrays for transmission in cardiac MR is a conceptually appealing alternative to body RF coil transmission, especially for patients with implants. PMID:27598923

Radio-frequency coil selection for MR imaging of the carotid vessel wall

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mat Isa, S.; Shuaib, I. L.; Bauk, S.

2014-11-01

This aim of this study was to identify the radiofrequency coil that will produce optimum image quality for scanning the carotid vessel wall using magnetic resonance imaging. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted using 10 volunteers. Each volunteer was scanned three times using a 1.5T Signa HDxt machine equipped with one of three different coils: a neurovascular array (NV) coil, an 8-channel CTL spine array coil, and a 3-inch surface coil. A qualitative image quality rating was assigned to each image. The images were also evaluated by measuring the signal to noise ratio (SNR) using Osirix 4.2.3 software. The noise was estimated from the mean intensities of the region of interest in the background of the images and the signal was measured in the muscle adjacent to the vessel wall. The SNRs of the three coils were compared using one-way ANOVA, with 104 images used for the data analysis. The mean image quality scores for the NV head coil, CTL coil, and 3-inch coil were 3.4, 3.33, and 1.67, respectively. In addition, the SNRs differed significantly (p < 0.05). The mean SNR for the 3-inch coil was significantly higher (56.21 ± 25.06) than those for the NV head coil (27.34 ± 15.47) and CTL coil (21.77 ± 13.14). The Bonferroni post-hoc test revealed that there was no significant difference between the NV head coil and the CTL coil (p = 0.21). The optimum SNR value was 20-27. These results indicate that the NV head coil and CTL coil can be used to evaluate the carotid arterial wall with optimum image quality and higher resolution. These coil can deliver fast and robust data to image the carotid vessel wall in vivo.

Shielding of Sensitive Electronic Devices in Magnetic Nanoparticle Hyperthermia Using Arrays of Coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spirou, S. V.; Tsialios, P.; Loudos, G.

2015-09-01

In Magnetic Nanoparticle Hyperthermia (MNH) an externally applied electromagnetic field transfers energy to the magnetic nanoparticles in the body, which in turn convert this energy into heat, thus locally heating the tissue they are located in. This external electromagnetic field is sufficiently strong so as to cause interference and affect sensitive electronic equipment. Standard shielding of magnetic fields involves Faraday cages or coating with high-permeability shielding alloys; however, these techniques cannot be used with optically sensitive devices, such as those employed in Optical Coherence Tomography or radionuclide imaging. In this work we present a method to achieve magnetic shielding using an array of coils. The magnetic field generated by a single coil was calculated using the COMSOL physics simulation toolkit. Software was written in C/C++ to import the single-coil data, and then calculate the positions, number of turns and currents in the shielding coils in order to minimize the magnetic field strength at the desired location. Simulations and calculations have shown that just two shielding coils can reduce the magnetic field by 2-3 orders of magnitude.

Phased array ghost elimination.

PubMed

Kellman, Peter; McVeigh, Elliot R

2006-05-01

Parallel imaging may be applied to cancel ghosts caused by a variety of distortion mechanisms, including distortions such as off-resonance or local flow, which are space variant. Phased array combining coefficients may be calculated that null ghost artifacts at known locations based on a constrained optimization, which optimizes SNR subject to the nulling constraint. The resultant phased array ghost elimination (PAGE) technique is similar to the method known as sensitivity encoding (SENSE) used for accelerated imaging; however, in this formulation is applied to full field-of-view (FOV) images. The phased array method for ghost elimination may result in greater flexibility in designing acquisition strategies. For example, in multi-shot EPI applications ghosts are typically mitigated by the use of an interleaved phase encode acquisition order. An alternative strategy is to use a sequential, non-interleaved phase encode order and cancel the resultant ghosts using PAGE parallel imaging. Cancellation of ghosts by means of phased array processing makes sequential, non-interleaved phase encode acquisition order practical, and permits a reduction in repetition time, TR, by eliminating the need for echo-shifting. Sequential, non-interleaved phase encode order has benefits of reduced distortion due to off-resonance, in-plane flow and EPI delay misalignment. Furthermore, the use of EPI with PAGE has inherent fat-water separation and has been used to provide off-resonance correction using a technique referred to as lipid elimination with an echo-shifting N/2-ghost acquisition (LEENA), and may further generalized using the multi-point Dixon method. Other applications of PAGE include cancelling ghosts which arise due to amplitude or phase variation during the approach to steady state. Parallel imaging requires estimates of the complex coil sensitivities. In vivo estimates may be derived by temporally varying the phase encode ordering to obtain a full k-space dataset in a scheme similar to the autocalibrating TSENSE method. This scheme is a generalization of the UNFOLD method used for removing aliasing in undersampled acquisitions. The more general scheme may be used to modulate each EPI ghost image to a separate temporal frequency as described in this paper. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Phased array ghost elimination

PubMed Central

Kellman, Peter; McVeigh, Elliot R.

2007-01-01

Parallel imaging may be applied to cancel ghosts caused by a variety of distortion mechanisms, including distortions such as off-resonance or local flow, which are space variant. Phased array combining coefficients may be calculated that null ghost artifacts at known locations based on a constrained optimization, which optimizes SNR subject to the nulling constraint. The resultant phased array ghost elimination (PAGE) technique is similar to the method known as sensitivity encoding (SENSE) used for accelerated imaging; however, in this formulation is applied to full field-of-view (FOV) images. The phased array method for ghost elimination may result in greater flexibility in designing acquisition strategies. For example, in multi-shot EPI applications ghosts are typically mitigated by the use of an interleaved phase encode acquisition order. An alternative strategy is to use a sequential, non-interleaved phase encode order and cancel the resultant ghosts using PAGE parallel imaging. Cancellation of ghosts by means of phased array processing makes sequential, non-interleaved phase encode acquisition order practical, and permits a reduction in repetition time, TR, by eliminating the need for echo-shifting. Sequential, non-interleaved phase encode order has benefits of reduced distortion due to off-resonance, in-plane flow and EPI delay misalignment. Furthermore, the use of EPI with PAGE has inherent fat-water separation and has been used to provide off-resonance correction using a technique referred to as lipid elimination with an echo-shifting N/2-ghost acquisition (LEENA), and may further generalized using the multi-point Dixon method. Other applications of PAGE include cancelling ghosts which arise due to amplitude or phase variation during the approach to steady state. Parallel imaging requires estimates of the complex coil sensitivities. In vivo estimates may be derived by temporally varying the phase encode ordering to obtain a full k-space dataset in a scheme similar to the autocalibrating TSENSE method. This scheme is a generalization of the UNFOLD method used for removing aliasing in undersampled acquisitions. The more general scheme may be used to modulate each EPI ghost image to a separate temporal frequency as described in this paper. PMID:16705636

Poster - Thur Eve - 13: Quantifying specific absorption rate of shielded RF coils through electromagnetic simulations for 7-T MRI.

PubMed

Belliveau, J-G; Gilbert, K M; Abou-Khousa, M; Menon, R S

2012-07-01

Ultra-high field MRI has many advantages such as increasing spatial resolution and exploiting contrast never before seen in-vivo. This contrast has been shown to be beneficial for many applications such as monitoring early and late effect to radiation therapy and transient changes during disease to name a few. However, at higher field strengths the RF wave, needed to for transmitting and receiving signal, approaches that of the head. This leads to constructive and deconstructive interference and a non -uniform flip angle over the volume being imaged. A transmit or transceive RF surface coil arrays is currently a method of choice to overcome this problem; however, mutual inductance between elements poses a significant challenge for the designer. A method to decouple elements in such an array is by using circumferential shielding; however, the potential benefits and/or disadvantages have not been investigated. This abstract primarily focuses on understanding power deposition - measured through Specific Absorption Rate - in the sample using circumferentially shielded RF coils. Various geometries of circumferentially shielded coils are explored to determine the behaviour of shield width and its effect on required transmit power and power deposition to the sample. Our results indicate that there is an optimization on shield width depending on the imaging depth. Additionally, the circumferential shield focuses the field more than unshielded coils, meaning that slight SAR may even be lower for circumferential shielded RF coils in array. © 2012 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Rectangle Surface Coil Array in a Grid Arrangement for Resonance Imaging

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-13

switchable array, RF magnetic field, NQR , MRI, NMR, tuning, decoupling I. INTRODUCTION ESONANCE imaging can be accomplished using Nuclear Magnetic...Resonance (NMR) or Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance ( NQR ) techniques. REF [1] and [6] explain the differences between NMR and NQR . What NMR and NQR ...of resonance NQR frequency of 28.1MHz. The matching and tuning is explain in detail in the next section of this paper. Rectangle Surface Coil

An integrated open-cavity system for magnetic bead manipulation.

PubMed

Abu-Nimeh, F T; Salem, F M

2013-02-01

Superparamagnetic beads are increasingly used in biomedical assays to manipulate, transport, and maneuver biomaterials. We present a low-cost integrated system designed in bulk CMOS to manipulate and separate biomedical magnetic beads. The system consists of 8 × 8 coil-arrays suitable for single bead manipulation, or collaborative multi-bead manipulation, using pseudo-parallel executions. We demonstrate the flexibility of the design in terms of different coil sizes, DC current levels, and layout techniques. In one array module example, the size of a single coil is 30 μm × 30 μm and the full array occupies an area of 248 μm × 248 μm in 0.5 μm CMOS technology. The programmable DC current source supports 8 discrete levels up to 1.5 mA. The total power consumption of the entire module is 9 mW when running at full power.

Automated de novo phasing and model building of coiled-coil proteins.

PubMed

Rämisch, Sebastian; Lizatović, Robert; André, Ingemar

2015-03-01

Models generated by de novo structure prediction can be very useful starting points for molecular replacement for systems where suitable structural homologues cannot be readily identified. Protein-protein complexes and de novo-designed proteins are examples of systems that can be challenging to phase. In this study, the potential of de novo models of protein complexes for use as starting points for molecular replacement is investigated. The approach is demonstrated using homomeric coiled-coil proteins, which are excellent model systems for oligomeric systems. Despite the stereotypical fold of coiled coils, initial phase estimation can be difficult and many structures have to be solved with experimental phasing. A method was developed for automatic structure determination of homomeric coiled coils from X-ray diffraction data. In a benchmark set of 24 coiled coils, ranging from dimers to pentamers with resolutions down to 2.5 Å, 22 systems were automatically solved, 11 of which had previously been solved by experimental phasing. The generated models contained 71-103% of the residues present in the deposited structures, had the correct sequence and had free R values that deviated on average by 0.01 from those of the respective reference structures. The electron-density maps were of sufficient quality that only minor manual editing was necessary to produce final structures. The method, named CCsolve, combines methods for de novo structure prediction, initial phase estimation and automated model building into one pipeline. CCsolve is robust against errors in the initial models and can readily be modified to make use of alternative crystallographic software. The results demonstrate the feasibility of de novo phasing of protein-protein complexes, an approach that could also be employed for other small systems beyond coiled coils.

Two-phase pressure drop in a helical coil flow boiling system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardik, B. K.; Prabhu, S. V.

2018-05-01

The objective of the present work is to study the two-phase pressure drop in helical coils. Literature on the two-phase pressure drop in a helical coil suggests the complexity in flow boiling inside a helical coil due to secondary flow. Most of correlations reported in the literature on the two-phase pressure drop in a helical coil are limited to a specific operating range. No general correlation is available for a helical coil which is applicable for all fluids. In the present study, an experimental databank collected containing a total of 832 data points includes the data from the present study and from the literature. The data includes diabatic pressure drop of two fluids namely water and R123. Data covers a range of parameters namely a mass flux of 120-2058 kg/m2 s, a heat flux of 18-2831 kW/m2, an exit quality of 0.03-1, a density ratio of 32-1404 and a coil to tube diameter ratio of 14-58. The databank is compared with eighteen empirical correlations which include well referred correlations of straight tubes and the available correlations of helical coils. The straight tube correlations are not working well for the present data set. The helical coil correlations work reasonably well for the present databank. A correlation is suggested to predict the two-phase pressure drop in helical coils. The present study suggests that the influence of a helical coil is completely included in the single phase pressure drop correlation for helical coils.

Accelerated Fractional Ventilation Imaging with Hyperpolarized Gas MRI

PubMed Central

Emami, Kiarash; Xu, Yinan; Hamedani, Hooman; Profka, Harrilla; Kadlecek, Stephen; Xin, Yi; Ishii, Masaru; Rizi, Rahim R.

2013-01-01

PURPOSE To investigate the utility of accelerated imaging to enhance multi-breath fractional ventilation (r) measurement accuracy using HP gas MRI. Undersampling shortens the breath-hold time, thereby reducing the O2-induced signal decay and allows subjects to maintain a more physiologically relevant breathing pattern. Additionally it may improve r estimation accuracy by reducing RF destruction of HP gas. METHODS Image acceleration was achieved by using an 8-channel phased array coil. Undersampled image acquisition was simulated in a series of ventilation images and images were reconstructed for various matrix sizes (48–128) using GRAPPA. Parallel accelerated r imaging was also performed on five mechanically ventilated pigs. RESULTS Optimal acceleration factor was fairly invariable (2.0–2.2×) over the range of simulated resolutions. Estimation accuracy progressively improved with higher resolutions (39–51% error reduction). In vivo r values were not significantly different between the two methods: 0.27±0.09, 0.35±0.06, 0.40±0.04 (standard) versus 0.23±0.05, 0.34±0.03, 0.37±0.02 (accelerated); for anterior, medial and posterior slices, respectively, whereas the corresponding vertical r gradients were significant (P < 0.001): 0.021±0.007 (standard) versus 0.019±0.005 (accelerated) [cm−1]. CONCLUSION Quadruple phased array coil simulations resulted in an optimal acceleration factor of ~2× independent of imaging resolution. Results advocate undersampled image acceleration to improve accuracy of fractional ventilation measurement with HP gas MRI. PMID:23400938

Spectroscopic AC Susceptibility Imaging (sASI) of Magnetic Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Ficko, Bradley W.; Nadar, Priyanka M.; Diamond, Solomon G.

2014-01-01

This study demonstrates a method for alternating current (AC) susceptibility imaging (ASI) of magnetic nanoparticles (mNPs) using low cost instrumentation. The ASI method uses AC magnetic susceptibility measurement to create tomographic images using an array of drive coils, compensation coils and fluxgate magnetometers. Using a spectroscopic approach in conjunction with ASI, a series of tomographic images can be created for each frequency measurement and is termed sASI. The advantage of sASI is that mNPs can be simultaneously characterized and imaged in a biological medium. System calibration was performed by fitting the in-phase and out-of-phase susceptibility measurements of an mNP sample with a hydrodynamic diameter of 100 nm to a Brownian relaxation model (R2 = 0.96). Samples of mNPs with core diameters of 10 and 40 nm and a sample of 100 nm hydrodynamic diameter were prepared in 0.5 ml tubes. Three mNP samples were arranged in a randomized array and then scanned using sASI with six frequencies between 425 and 925 Hz. The sASI scans showed the location and quantity of the mNP samples (R2 = 0.97). Biological compatibility of the sASI method was demonstrated by scanning mNPs that were injected into a pork sausage. The mNP response in the biological medium was found to correlate with a calibration sample (R2 = 0.97, p <0.001). These results demonstrate the concept of ASI and advantages of sASI. PMID:25477704

Motion-induced phase error estimation and correction in 3D diffusion tensor imaging.

PubMed

Van, Anh T; Hernando, Diego; Sutton, Bradley P

2011-11-01

A multishot data acquisition strategy is one way to mitigate B0 distortion and T2∗ blurring for high-resolution diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging experiments. However, different object motions that take place during different shots cause phase inconsistencies in the data, leading to significant image artifacts. This work proposes a maximum likelihood estimation and k-space correction of motion-induced phase errors in 3D multishot diffusion tensor imaging. The proposed error estimation is robust, unbiased, and approaches the Cramer-Rao lower bound. For rigid body motion, the proposed correction effectively removes motion-induced phase errors regardless of the k-space trajectory used and gives comparable performance to the more computationally expensive 3D iterative nonlinear phase error correction method. The method has been extended to handle multichannel data collected using phased-array coils. Simulation and in vivo data are shown to demonstrate the performance of the method.

Comparison of a 28 Channel-Receive Array Coil and Quadrature Volume Coil for Morphologic Imaging and T2 Mapping of Knee Cartilage at 7 Tesla

PubMed Central

Chang, Gregory; Wiggins, Graham C.; Xia, Ding; Lattanzi, Riccardo; Madelin, Guillaume; Raya, Jose G.; Finnerty, Matthew; Fujita, Hiroyuki; Recht, Michael P.; Regatte, Ravinder R.

2011-01-01

Purpose To compare a new birdcage-transmit, 28 channel-receive array (28 Ch) coil and a quadrature volume coil for 7 Tesla morphologic MRI and T2 mapping of knee cartilage. Methods The right knees of ten healthy subjects were imaged on a 7 Tesla whole body MR scanner using both coils. 3-dimensional fast low-angle shot (3D-FLASH) and multi-echo spin-echo (MESE) sequences were implemented. Cartilage signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), thickness, and T2 values were assessed. Results SNR/CNR was 17–400% greater for the 28 Ch compared to the quadrature coil (p≤0.005). Bland-Altman plots show mean differences between measurements of tibial/femoral cartilage thickness and T2 values obtained with each coil to be small (−0.002±0.009 cm/0.003±0.011 cm) and large (−6.8±6.7 ms/−8.2±9.7 ms), respectively. For the 28 Ch coil, when parallel imaging with acceleration factors (AF) 2, 3, and 4 was performed, SNR retained was: 62–69%, 51–55%, and 39–45%. Conclusion A 28 Ch knee coil provides increased SNR/CNR for 7T cartilage morphologic imaging and T2 mapping. Coils should be switched with caution during clinical studies because T2 values may differ. The greater SNR of the 28 Ch coil could be used to perform parallel imaging with AF2 and obtain similar SNR as the quadrature coil. PMID:22095723

Optically controlled switch-mode current-source amplifiers for on-coil implementation in high field parallel transmission

PubMed Central

Gudino, Natalia; Duan, Qi; de Zwart, Jacco A; Murphy-Boesch, Joe; Dodd, Stephen J; Merkle, Hellmut; van Gelderen, Peter; Duyn, Jeff H

2015-01-01

Purpose We tested the feasibility of implementing parallel transmission (pTX) for high field MRI using a radiofrequency (RF) amplifier design to be located on or in the immediate vicinity of a RF transmit coil. Method We designed a current-source switch-mode amplifier based on miniaturized, non-magnetic electronics. Optical RF carrier and envelope signals to control the amplifier were derived, through a custom-built interface, from the RF source accessible in the scanner control. Amplifier performance was tested by benchtop measurements as well as with imaging at 7 T (300 MHz) and 11.7 T (500 MHz). The ability to perform pTX was evaluated by measuring inter-channel coupling and phase adjustment in a 2-channel setup. Results The amplifier delivered in excess of 44 W RF power and caused minimal interference with MRI. The interface derived accurate optical control signals with carrier frequencies ranging from 64 to 750 MHz. Decoupling better than 14 dB was obtained between 2 coil loops separated by only 1 cm. Application to MRI was demonstrated by acquiring artifact-free images at 7 T and 11.7 T. Conclusion An optically controlled miniaturized RF amplifier for on-coil implementation at high field is demonstrated that should facilitate implementation of high-density pTX arrays. PMID:26256671

Signal-to-noise ratio and spectral linewidth improvements between 1.5 and 7 Tesla in proton echo-planar spectroscopic imaging.

PubMed

Otazo, Ricardo; Mueller, Bryon; Ugurbil, Kamil; Wald, Lawrence; Posse, Stefan

2006-12-01

This study characterizes gains in sensitivity and spectral resolution of proton echo-planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI) with increasing magnetic field strength (B(0)). Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) per unit volume and unit time, and intrinsic linewidth (LW) of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), creatine (Cr), and choline (Cho) were measured with PEPSI at 1.5, 3, 4, and 7 Tesla on scanners that shared a similar software and hardware platform, using circularly polarized (CP) and eight-channel phased-array (PA) head coils. Data were corrected for relaxation effects and processed with a time-domain matched filter (MF) adapted to each B(0). The SNR and LW measured with PEPSI were very similar to those measured with conventional point-resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) SI. Measurements with the CP coil demonstrated a nearly linear SNR gain with respect to B(0) in central brain regions. For the PA coil, the SNR-B(0) relationship was less than linear, but there was a substantial SNR increase in comparison to the CP coil. The LW in units of ppm decreased with B(0), resulting in improved spectral resolution. These studies using PEPSI demonstrated linear gains in SNR with respect to B(0), consistent with theoretical expectations, and a decrease in ppm LW with increasing B(0).

The Travelling-Wave Primate System: A New Solution for Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Macaque Monkeys at 7 Tesla Ultra-High Field.

PubMed

Herrmann, Tim; Mallow, Johannes; Plaumann, Markus; Luchtmann, Michael; Stadler, Jörg; Mylius, Judith; Brosch, Michael; Bernarding, Johannes

2015-01-01

Neuroimaging of macaques at ultra-high field (UHF) is usually conducted by combining a volume coil for transmit (Tx) and a phased array coil for receive (Rx) tightly enclosing the monkey's head. Good results have been achieved using vertical or horizontal magnets with implanted or near-surface coils. An alternative and less costly approach, the travelling-wave (TW) excitation concept, may offer more flexible experimental setups on human whole-body UHF magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, which are now more widely available. Goal of the study was developing and validating the TW concept for in vivo primate MRI. The TW Primate System (TWPS) uses the radio frequency shield of the gradient system of a human whole-body 7 T MRI system as a waveguide to propagate a circularly polarized B1 field represented by the TE11 mode. This mode is excited by a specifically designed 2-port patch antenna. For receive, a customized neuroimaging monkey head receive-only coil was designed. Field simulation was used for development and evaluation. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was compared with data acquired with a conventional monkey volume head coil consisting of a homogeneous transmit coil and a 12-element receive coil. The TWPS offered good image homogeneity in the volume-of-interest Turbo spin echo images exhibited a high contrast, allowing a clear depiction of the cerebral anatomy. As a prerequisite for functional MRI, whole brain ultrafast echo planar images were successfully acquired. The TWPS presents a promising new approach to fMRI of macaques for research groups with access to a horizontal UHF MRI system.

The Travelling-Wave Primate System: A New Solution for Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Macaque Monkeys at 7 Tesla Ultra-High Field

PubMed Central

Herrmann, Tim; Mallow, Johannes; Plaumann, Markus; Luchtmann, Michael; Stadler, Jörg; Mylius, Judith; Brosch, Michael; Bernarding, Johannes

2015-01-01

Introduction Neuroimaging of macaques at ultra-high field (UHF) is usually conducted by combining a volume coil for transmit (Tx) and a phased array coil for receive (Rx) tightly enclosing the monkey’s head. Good results have been achieved using vertical or horizontal magnets with implanted or near-surface coils. An alternative and less costly approach, the travelling-wave (TW) excitation concept, may offer more flexible experimental setups on human whole-body UHF magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, which are now more widely available. Goal of the study was developing and validating the TW concept for in vivo primate MRI. Methods The TW Primate System (TWPS) uses the radio frequency shield of the gradient system of a human whole-body 7 T MRI system as a waveguide to propagate a circularly polarized B1 field represented by the TE11 mode. This mode is excited by a specifically designed 2-port patch antenna. For receive, a customized neuroimaging monkey head receive-only coil was designed. Field simulation was used for development and evaluation. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was compared with data acquired with a conventional monkey volume head coil consisting of a homogeneous transmit coil and a 12-element receive coil. Results The TWPS offered good image homogeneity in the volume-of-interest Turbo spin echo images exhibited a high contrast, allowing a clear depiction of the cerebral anatomy. As a prerequisite for functional MRI, whole brain ultrafast echo planar images were successfully acquired. Conclusion The TWPS presents a promising new approach to fMRI of macaques for research groups with access to a horizontal UHF MRI system. PMID:26066653

Shielded microstrip array for 7T human MR imaging.

PubMed

Wu, Bing; Wang, Chunsheng; Kelley, Douglas A C; Xu, Duan; Vigneron, Daniel B; Nelson, Sarah J; Zhang, Xiaoliang

2010-01-01

The high-frequency transceiver array based on the microstrip transmission line design is a promising technique for ultrahigh field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal excitation and reception. However, with the increase of radio-frequency (RF) channels, the size of the ground plane in each microstrip coil element is usually not sufficient to provide a perfect ground. Consequently, the transceiver array may suffer from cable resonance, lower Q-factors, and imaging quality degradations. In this paper, we present an approach to improving the performance of microstrip transceiver arrays by introducing RF shielding outside the microstrip array and the feeding coaxial cables. This improvement reduced interactions among cables, increased resonance stability, and Q-factors, and thus improved imaging quality. An experimental method was also introduced and utilized for quantitative measurement and evaluation of RF coil resonance stability or "cable resonance" behavior.

Shielded Microstrip Array for 7T Human MR Imaging

PubMed Central

Wu, Bing; Wang, Chunsheng; Kelley, Douglas A. C.; Xu, Duan; Vigneron, Daniel B.; Nelson, Sarah J.

2010-01-01

The high-frequency transceiver array based on the microstrip transmission line design is a promising technique for ultrahigh field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal excitation and reception. However, with the increase of radio-frequency (RF) channels, the size of the ground plane in each microstrip coil element is usually not sufficient to provide a perfect ground. Consequently, the transceiver array may suffer from cable resonance, lower Q-factors, and imaging quality degradations. In this paper, we present an approach to improving the performance of microstrip transceiver arrays by introducing RF shielding outside the microstrip array and the feeding coaxial cables. This improvement reduced interactions among cables, increased resonance stability, and Q-factors, and thus improved imaging quality. An experimental method was also introduced and utilized for quantitative measurement and evaluation of RF coil resonance stability or “cable resonance” behavior. PMID:19822470

Coil-to-coil physiological noise correlations and their impact on fMRI time-series SNR

PubMed Central

Triantafyllou, C.; Polimeni, J. R.; Keil, B.; Wald, L. L.

2017-01-01

Purpose Physiological nuisance fluctuations (“physiological noise”) are a major contribution to the time-series Signal to Noise Ratio (tSNR) of functional imaging. While thermal noise correlations between array coil elements have a well-characterized effect on the image Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR0), the element-to-element covariance matrix of the time-series fluctuations has not yet been analyzed. We examine this effect with a goal of ultimately improving the combination of multichannel array data. Theory and Methods We extend the theoretical relationship between tSNR and SNR0 to include a time-series noise covariance matrix Ψt, distinct from the thermal noise covariance matrix Ψ0, and compare its structure to Ψ0 and the signal coupling matrix SSH formed from the signal intensity vectors S. Results Inclusion of the measured time-series noise covariance matrix into the model relating tSNR and SNR0 improves the fit of experimental multichannel data and is shown to be distinct from Ψ0 or SSH. Conclusion Time-series noise covariances in array coils are found to differ from Ψ0 and more surprisingly, from the signal coupling matrix SSH. Correct characterization of the time-series noise has implications for the analysis of time-series data and for improving the coil element combination process. PMID:26756964

Intelligent shell feedback control in EXTRAP T2R reversed field pinch with partial coverage of the toroidal surface by a discrete active coil array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yadikin, D.; Brunsell, P. R.; Drake, J. R.

2006-01-01

An active feedback system is required for long pulse operation of the reversed field pinch (RFP) device to suppress resistive wall modes (RWMs). A general feature of a feedback system using a discrete active coil array is a coupling effect which arises when a set of side band modes determined by the number of active coils is produced. Recent results obtained on the EXTRAP T2R RFP demonstrated the suppression of independent m = 1 RWMs using an active feedback system with a two-dimensional array of discrete active coils in the poloidal and toroidal directions. One of the feedback algorithms used is the intelligent shell feedback scheme. Active feedback systems having different number of active coils in the poloidal (Mc) and toroidal (Nc) directions (Mc × Nc = 2 × 32 and Mc × Nc = 4 × 16) are studied. Different side band effects are seen for these configurations. A significant prolongation of the plasma discharge is achieved for the intelligent shell feedback scheme using the 2 × 32 active coil configuration. This is attributed to the side band sets including only one of the dominant unstable RWMs and avoiding coupling to resonant modes. Analog proportional-integral-derivative controllers are used in the feedback system. Regimes with different values of the proportional gain are studied. The requirement of the proportional-integral control for low proportional gain and proportional-derivative control for high proportional gain is seen in the experiments.

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.

PubMed

Rosenkrantz, Andrew B; Zhang, Bei; Ben-Eliezer, Noam; Le Nobin, Julien; Melamed, Jonathan; Deng, Fang-Ming; Taneja, Samir S; Wiggins, Graham C

2015-01-01

To report design of a simplified external transmit-receive coil array for 7 Tesla (T) prostate MRI, including demonstration of the array for tumor localization using T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) at 7T before prostatectomy. Following simulations of transmitter designs not requiring parallel transmission or radiofrequency-shimming, a coil array was constructed using loop elements, with anterior and posterior rows comprising one transmit-receive element and three receive-only elements. This coil structure was optimized using a whole-body phantom. In vivo sequence optimization was performed to optimize achieved flip angle (FA) and signal to noise ratio (SNR) in prostate. The system was evaluated in a healthy volunteer at 3T and 7T. The 7T T2WI was performed in two prostate cancer patients before prostatectomy, and localization of dominant tumors was subjectively compared with histopathological findings. Image quality was compared between 3T and 7T in these patients. Simulations of the B1(+) field in prostate using two-loop design showed good magnitude (B1(+) of 0.245 A/m/w(1/2)) and uniformity (nonuniformity [SD/mean] of 10.4%). In the volunteer, 90° FA was achieved in prostate using 225 v 1 ms hard-pulse (indicating good efficiency), FA maps confirmed good uniformity (14.1% nonuniformity), and SNR maps showed SNR gain of 2.1 at 7T versus 3T. In patients, 7T T2WI showed excellent visual correspondence with prostatectomy findings. 7T images demonstrated higher estimated SNR (eSNR) in benign peripheral zone (PZ) and tumor compared with 3T, but lower eSNR in fat and slight decreases in tumor-to-PZ contrast and PZ-homogeneity. We have demonstrated feasibility of a simplified external coil array for high-resolution T2-weighted prostate MRI at 7T. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optimization study on the magnetic field of superconducting Halbach Array magnet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Boyang; Geng, Jianzhao; Li, Chao; Zhang, Xiuchang; Fu, Lin; Zhang, Heng; Ma, Jun; Coombs, T. A.

2017-07-01

This paper presents the optimization on the strength and homogeneity of magnetic field from superconducting Halbach Array magnet. Conventional Halbach Array uses a special arrangement of permanent magnets which can generate homogeneous magnetic field. Superconducting Halbach Array utilizes High Temperature Superconductor (HTS) to construct an electromagnet to work below its critical temperature, which performs equivalently to the permanent magnet based Halbach Array. The simulations of superconducting Halbach Array were carried out using H-formulation based on B-dependent critical current density and bulk approximation, with the FEM platform COMSOL Multiphysics. The optimization focused on the coils' location, as well as the geometry and numbers of coils on the premise of maintaining the total amount of superconductor. Results show Halbach Array configuration based superconducting magnet is able to generate the magnetic field with intensity over 1 Tesla and improved homogeneity using proper optimization methods. Mathematical relation of these optimization parameters with the intensity and homogeneity of magnetic field was developed.

Two-Phase Annular Flow in Helical Coil Flow Channels in a Reduced Gravity Environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keshock, Edward G.; Lin, Chin S.

1996-01-01

A brief review of both single- and two-phase flow studies in curved and coiled flow geometries is first presented. Some of the complexities of two-phase liquid-vapor flow in curved and coiled geometries are discussed, and serve as an introduction to the advantages of observing such flows under a low-gravity environment. The studies proposed -- annular two-phase air-water flow in helical coil flow channels are described. Objectives of the studies are summarized.

Terrestrial adaptation of the thermal heliotrope.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fairbanks, J. W.; Morse, F. H.

1971-01-01

The principle of using bimetal helical coils to cause solar arrays to track the sun in space is presently under consideration for array orientation on several spacecraft. Adaptation of this thermal heliotrope to terrestrial applications introduces additional design considerations. The dominance of solar-radiation energy input to the helical coil over convective energy losses has to be ensured, and wind effects must be minimized. As long as the cost of solar cells remains high, orientation will always result in a significant cost saving for the converter.

Decomposed direct matrix inversion for fast non-cartesian SENSE reconstructions.

PubMed

Qian, Yongxian; Zhang, Zhenghui; Wang, Yi; Boada, Fernando E

2006-08-01

A new k-space direct matrix inversion (DMI) method is proposed here to accelerate non-Cartesian SENSE reconstructions. In this method a global k-space matrix equation is established on basic MRI principles, and the inverse of the global encoding matrix is found from a set of local matrix equations by taking advantage of the small extension of k-space coil maps. The DMI algorithm's efficiency is achieved by reloading the precalculated global inverse when the coil maps and trajectories remain unchanged, such as in dynamic studies. Phantom and human subject experiments were performed on a 1.5T scanner with a standard four-channel phased-array cardiac coil. Interleaved spiral trajectories were used to collect fully sampled and undersampled 3D raw data. The equivalence of the global k-space matrix equation to its image-space version, was verified via conjugate gradient (CG) iterative algorithms on a 2x undersampled phantom and numerical-model data sets. When applied to the 2x undersampled phantom and human-subject raw data, the decomposed DMI method produced images with small errors (< or = 3.9%) relative to the reference images obtained from the fully-sampled data, at a rate of 2 s per slice (excluding 4 min for precalculating the global inverse at an image size of 256 x 256). The DMI method may be useful for noise evaluations in parallel coil designs, dynamic MRI, and 3D sodium MRI with fixed coils and trajectories. Copyright 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Endoluminal ultrasound applicator with an integrated RF coil for high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging-guided high-intensity contact ultrasound thermotherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rata, Mihaela; Salomir, Rares; Umathum, Reiner; Jenne, Jürgen; Lafon, Cyril; Cotton, François; Bock, Michael

2008-11-01

High-intensity contact ultrasound (HICU) under MRI guidance may provide minimally invasive treatment of endocavitary digestive tumors in the esophagus, colon or rectum. In this study, a miniature receive-only coil was integrated into an endoscopic ultrasound applicator to offer high-resolution MRI guidance of thermotherapy. A cylindrical plastic support with an incorporated single element flat transducer (9.45 MHz, water cooling tip) was made and equipped with a rectangular RF loop coil surrounding the active element. The integrated coil provided significantly higher sensitivity than a four-element extracorporeal phased array coil, and the standard deviation of the MR thermometry (SDT) improved up to a factor of 7 at 10 mm depth in tissue. High-resolution morphological images (T1w-TFE and IR-T1w-TSE with a voxel size of 0.25 × 0.25 × 3 mm3) and accurate thermometry data (the PRFS method with a voxel size of 0.5 × 0.5 × 5 mm3, 2.2 s/image, 0.3 °C voxel-wise SDT) were acquired in an ex vivo esophagus sample, on a clinical 1.5T scanner. The endoscopic device was actively operated under automatic temperature control, demonstrating a high level of accuracy (1.7% standard deviation, 1.1% error of mean value), which indicates that this technology may be suitable for HICU therapy of endoluminal cancer.

Doughnut shape atom traps with arbitrary inclination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masegosa, R. R. Y.; Moya-Cessa, H.; Chavez-Cerda, S.

2006-02-01

Since the invention of magneto-optical trap (MOT), there have been several experimental and theoretical studies of the density distribution in these devices. To the best of our knowledge, only horizontal orbital traps have been observed, perpendicular to the coil axis. In this work we report the observation of distributions of trapped atoms in pure circular orbits without a nucleus whose orbital plane is tilted up to 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. We have used a stabilized time phase optical array in our experiments and conventional equipment used for MOT.

Feasibility study of a new RF coil design for prostate MRI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ha, Seunghoon; Roeck, Werner W.; Cho, Jaedu; Nalcioglu, Orhan

2014-09-01

The combined use of a torso-pelvic RF array coil and endorectal RF coil is the current state-of-the-art in prostate MRI. The endorectal coil provides high detection sensitivity to acquire high-spatial resolution images and spectroscopic data, while the torso-pelvic coil provides large coverage to assess pelvic lymph nodes and pelvic bones for metastatic disease. However, the use of an endorectal coil is an invasive procedure that presents difficulties for both patients and technicians. In this study, we propose a novel non-invasive RF coil design that can provide both image signal to noise ratio and field of view coverage comparable to the combined torso-pelvic and endorectal coil configuration. A prototype coil was constructed and tested using a pelvic phantom. The results demonstrate that this new design is a viable alternative for prostate MRI

Least squares reconstruction of non-linear RF phase encoded MR data.

PubMed

Salajeghe, Somaie; Babyn, Paul; Sharp, Jonathan C; Sarty, Gordon E

2016-09-01

The numerical feasibility of reconstructing MRI signals generated by RF coils that produce B1 fields with a non-linearly varying spatial phase is explored. A global linear spatial phase variation of B1 is difficult to produce from current confined to RF coils. Here we use regularized least squares inversion, in place of the usual Fourier transform, to reconstruct signals generated in B1 fields with non-linear phase variation. RF encoded signals were simulated for three RF coil configurations: ideal linear, parallel conductors and, circular coil pairs. The simulated signals were reconstructed by Fourier transform and by regularized least squares. The Fourier reconstruction of simulated RF encoded signals from the parallel conductor coil set showed minor distortions over the reconstruction of signals from the ideal linear coil set but the Fourier reconstruction of signals from the circular coil set produced severe geometric distortion. Least squares inversion in all cases produced reconstruction errors comparable to the Fourier reconstruction of the simulated signal from the ideal linear coil set. MRI signals encoded in B1 fields with non-linearly varying spatial phase may be accurately reconstructed using regularized least squares thus pointing the way to the use of simple RF coil designs for RF encoded MRI. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A superconducting large-angle magnetic suspension

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Downer, James; Goldie, James; Torti, Richard

1991-01-01

The component technologies were developed required for an advanced control moment gyro (CMG) type of slewing actuator for large payloads. The key component of the CMG is a large-angle magnetic suspension (LAMS). The LAMS combines the functions of the gimbal structure, torque motors, and rotor bearings of a CMG. The LAMS uses a single superconducting source coil and an array of cryoresistive control coils to produce a specific output torque more than an order of magnitude greater than conventional devices. The designed and tested LAMS system is based around an available superconducting solenoid, an array of twelve room-temperature normal control coils, and a multi-input, multi-output control system. The control laws were demonstrated for stabilizing and controlling the LAMS system.

7 Tesla 22-channel wrap-around coil array for cervical spinal cord and brainstem imaging.

PubMed

Zhang, Bei; Seifert, Alan C; Kim, Joo-Won; Borrello, Joseph; Xu, Junqian

2017-10-01

Increased signal-to-noise ratio and blood oxygenation level-dependent sensitivity at 7 Tesla (T) have the potential to enable high-resolution imaging of the human cervical spinal cord and brainstem. We propose a new two-panel radiofrequency coil design for these regions to fully exploit the advantages of ultra-high field. A two-panel array, containing four transmit/receive and 18 receive-only elements fully encircling the head and neck, was constructed following simulations demonstrating the B1+ and specific absorption rate (SAR) benefits of two-panel over one-panel arrays. This array was compared with a previously reported posterior-only array and tested for safety using a phantom. Its anatomical, functional, and diffusion MRI performance was demonstrated in vivo. The two-panel array produced more uniform B1+ across the brainstem and cervical spinal cord without compromising SAR, and achieved 70% greater receive sensitivity than the posterior-only array. The two-panel design enabled acceleration of R = 2 × 2 in two dimensions or R = 3 in a single dimension. High quality in vivo anatomical, functional, and diffusion images of the human cervical spinal cord and brainstem were acquired. We have designed and constructed a wrap-around coil array with excellent performance for cervical spinal cord and brainstem MRI at 7T, which enables simultaneous human cervical spinal cord and brainstem functional MRI. Magn Reson Med 78:1623-1634, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Single phase four pole/six pole motor

DOEpatents

Kirschbaum, Herbert S.

1984-01-01

A single phase alternating current electric motor is provided with a main stator winding having two coil groups each including the series connection of three coils. These coil groups can be connected in series for six pole operation and in parallel for four pole operation. The coils are approximately equally spaced around the periphery of the machine but are not of equal numbers of turns. The two coil groups are identically wound and spaced 180 mechanical degrees apart. One coil of each group has more turns and a greater span than the other two coils.

Millimeter spatial resolution in vivo sodium MRI of the human eye at 7 T using a dedicated radiofrequency transceiver array.

PubMed

Wenz, Daniel; Kuehne, Andre; Huelnhagen, Till; Nagel, Armin M; Waiczies, Helmar; Weinberger, Oliver; Oezerdem, Celal; Stachs, Oliver; Langner, Soenke; Seeliger, Erdmann; Flemming, Bert; Hodge, Russell; Niendorf, Thoralf

2018-08-01

The aim of this study was to achieve millimeter spatial resolution sodium in vivo MRI of the human eye at 7 T using a dedicated six-channel transceiver array. We present a detailed description of the radiofrequency coil design, along with electromagnetic field and specific absorption ratio simulations, data validation, and in vivo application. Electromagnetic field and specific absorption ratio simulations were performed. Transmit field uniformity was optimized by using a multi-objective genetic algorithm. Transmit field mapping was conducted using a phase-sensitive method. An in vivo feasibility study was carried out with 3-dimensional density-adapted projection reconstruction imaging technique. Measured transmit field distribution agrees well with the one obtained from simulations. The specific absorption ratio simulations confirm that the radiofrequency coil is safe for clinical use. Our radiofrequency coil is light and conforms to an average human head. High spatial resolution (nominal 1.4 and 1.0 mm isotropic) sodium in vivo images of the human eye were acquired within scan times suitable for clinical applications (∼ 10 min). Three most important eye compartments in the context of sodium physiology were clearly delineated in all of the images: the vitreous humor, the aqueous humor, and the lens. Our results provide encouragement for further clinical studies. The implications for research into eye diseases including ocular melanoma, cataract, and glaucoma are discussed. Magn Reson Med 80:672-684, 2018. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Advanced Geophysical Classification with the Marine Towed Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steinhurst, D.; Harbaugh, G.; Keiswetter, D.; Bell, T. W.; Massey, G.; Wright, D.

2017-12-01

The Marine Towed Array, or MTA, is an underwater dual-mode sensor array that has been successfully deployed at multiple marine venues in support of Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) and Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) demonstrations beginning in 2004. It provided both marine electromagnetic and marine magnetic sensors for detection and mapping of underwater UXO. The EMI sensor array was based on older technology, which in several ESTCP demonstrations has not been able to support advanced geophysical classification (AGC). Under ESTCP funding, the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory is in the process of upgrading the MTA with modern, advanced electromagnetic (EMI) electronics and replacing the sensor array with a modern, multistatic array design. A half-scale version of the proposed array has been built and tested on land. Six tri-axial receiver cubes were placed inside two- and three- transmit coil configurations in equivalent positions to design locations for the MTA wing. The responses of a variety of munitions items and test spheres were measured over a range of target-to-array geometries and in both static and simulated dynamic data collection modes. The multi-transmit coil configuration was shown to provide enhanced single-pass classification performance over the original single coil design, particularly as a function of target location relative to the centerline. The ability to go beyond anomaly detection and additionally classify detected anomalies from survey data would dramatically improve the state of the art for underwater UXO remediation by reducing costs and improving the efficiency of these efforts. The results of our efforts to return the MTA to service and validating the new EMI array's design for UXO detection and classification in the underwater environment will be the focus of this presentation.

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Characteristics of an Asymmetric Head-Only Gradient Coil Compatible with a High-Channel-Count Receiver Array

PubMed Central

Lee, Seung-Kyun; Mathieu, Jean-Baptiste; Graziani, Dominic; Piel, Joseph; Budesheim, Eric; Fiveland, Eric; Hardy, Christopher J.; Tan, Ek Tsoon; Amm, Bruce; Foo, Thomas K.-F; Bernstein, Matt A.; Huston, John; Shu, Yunhong; Schenck, John F.

2015-01-01

Purpose To characterize peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) of an asymmetric head-only gradient coil that is compatible with a commercial high-channel-count receive-only array. Methods Two prototypes of an asymmetric head-only gradient coil set, with 42-cm inner diameter, were constructed for brain imaging at 3T with maximum performance specifications of up to 85 mT/m and 708 T/m/s. 24 volunteer tests were performed to measure PNS thresholds with the transverse (X, left/right; Y, anterior/posterior) gradient coils of both prototypes. 14 volunteers were also tested for the Z-gradient PNS in the second prototype, and were additionally scanned with high-slew-rate EPI immediately after the PNS tests. Results For both prototypes, the Y-gradient PNS threshold was markedly higher than the X-gradient. The Z-gradient threshold was intermediate between those for the X- and Y-coils. Out of the 24 volunteer subjects, only two experienced Y-gradient PNS at 80 mT/m, 500 T/m/s. All volunteers underwent the EPI scan without PNS when the readout direction was set to A/P. Conclusion Measured PNS characteristics of asymmetric head-only gradient coil prototypes indicate that such coils, especially in the A/P direction, can be used for fast EPI readout in high-performance neuroimaging scans with substantially reduced PNS concerns compared to conventional whole-body gradient coils. PMID:26628078

MAST magnetic diagnostics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edlington, T.; Martin, R.; Pinfold, T.

2001-01-01

The mega-ampere spherical tokamak (MAST) experiment is a new, large, low aspect ratio device (R=0.7-0.8 m, a=0.5-0.65 m, maximum BT˜0.63 T at R=0.7 m) operating its first experimental physics campaign. Designed to study a wide variety of plasma shapes with up to 2 MA of plasma current with an aspect ratio down to 1.3, the poloidal field (PF) coils used for plasma formation, equilibrium and shaping are inside the main vacuum vessel. For plasma control and to investigate a wide range of plasma phenomena, an extensive set of magnetic diagnostics have been installed inside the vacuum vessel. More than 600 vacuum compatible, bakeable diagnostic coils are configured in a number of discrete arrays close to the plasma edge with about half the coils installed behind the graphite armour tiles covering the center column. The coil arrays measure the toroidal and poloidal variation in the equilibrium field and its high frequency fluctuating components. Internal coils also measure currents in the PF coils, plasma current, stored energy and induced currents in the mechanical support structures of the coils and graphite armour tiles. The latter measurements are particularly important when halo currents are induced following a plasma termination, for example, when the plasma becomes vertically unstable. The article describes the MAST magnetic diagnostic coil set and their calibration. The way in which coil signals are used to control the plasma equilibrium is described and data from the first MAST experimental campaign presented. These coil data are used as input to the code EFIT [L. Lao et al., Nucl. Fusion 25, 1611 (1985)], for measurement of halo currents in the vacuum vessel structure and for measurements of the structure of magnetic field fluctuations near the plasma edge.

Accelerated short-TE 3D proton echo-planar spectroscopic imaging using 2D-SENSE with a 32-channel array coil.

PubMed

Otazo, Ricardo; Tsai, Shang-Yueh; Lin, Fa-Hsuan; Posse, Stefan

2007-12-01

MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) with whole brain coverage in clinically feasible acquisition times still remains a major challenge. A combination of MRSI with parallel imaging has shown promise to reduce the long encoding times and 2D acceleration with a large array coil is expected to provide high acceleration capability. In this work a very high-speed method for 3D-MRSI based on the combination of proton echo planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI) with regularized 2D-SENSE reconstruction is developed. Regularization was performed by constraining the singular value decomposition of the encoding matrix to reduce the effect of low-value and overlapped coil sensitivities. The effects of spectral heterogeneity and discontinuities in coil sensitivity across the spectroscopic voxels were minimized by unaliasing the point spread function. As a result the contamination from extracranial lipids was reduced 1.6-fold on average compared to standard SENSE. We show that the acquisition of short-TE (15 ms) 3D-PEPSI at 3 T with a 32 x 32 x 8 spatial matrix using a 32-channel array coil can be accelerated 8-fold (R = 4 x 2) along y-z to achieve a minimum acquisition time of 1 min. Maps of the concentrations of N-acetyl-aspartate, creatine, choline, and glutamate were obtained with moderate reduction in spatial-spectral quality. The short acquisition time makes the method suitable for volumetric metabolite mapping in clinical studies. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Coil-to-coil physiological noise correlations and their impact on functional MRI time-series signal-to-noise ratio.

PubMed

Triantafyllou, Christina; Polimeni, Jonathan R; Keil, Boris; Wald, Lawrence L

2016-12-01

Physiological nuisance fluctuations ("physiological noise") are a major contribution to the time-series signal-to-noise ratio (tSNR) of functional imaging. While thermal noise correlations between array coil elements have a well-characterized effect on the image Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR 0 ), the element-to-element covariance matrix of the time-series fluctuations has not yet been analyzed. We examine this effect with a goal of ultimately improving the combination of multichannel array data. We extend the theoretical relationship between tSNR and SNR 0 to include a time-series noise covariance matrix Ψ t , distinct from the thermal noise covariance matrix Ψ 0 , and compare its structure to Ψ 0 and the signal coupling matrix SS H formed from the signal intensity vectors S. Inclusion of the measured time-series noise covariance matrix into the model relating tSNR and SNR 0 improves the fit of experimental multichannel data and is shown to be distinct from Ψ 0 or SS H . Time-series noise covariances in array coils are found to differ from Ψ 0 and more surprisingly, from the signal coupling matrix SS H . Correct characterization of the time-series noise has implications for the analysis of time-series data and for improving the coil element combination process. Magn Reson Med 76:1708-1719, 2016. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Single phase four pole/six pole motor

DOEpatents

Kirschbaum, H.S.

1984-10-09

A single phase alternating current electric motor is provided with a main stator winding having two coil groups each including the series connection of three coils. These coil groups can be connected in series for six pole operation and in parallel for four pole operation. The coils are approximately equally spaced around the periphery of the machine but are not of equal numbers of turns. The two coil groups are identically wound and spaced 180 mechanical degrees apart. One coil of each group has more turns and a greater span than the other two coils. 10 figs.

Experimental validation of coil phase parametrisation on ASDEX Upgrade, and extension to ITER

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryan, D. A.; Liu, Y. Q.; Kirk, A.; Suttrop, W.; Dudson, B.; Dunne, M.; Willensdorfer, M.; the ASDEX Upgrade team; the EUROfusion MST1 team

2018-06-01

It has been previously demonstrated in Li et al (2016 Nucl. Fusion 56 126007) that the optimum upper/lower coil phase shift ΔΦopt for alignment of RMP coils for ELM mitigation depends sensitively on q 95, and other equilibrium plasma parameters. Therefore, ΔΦopt is expected to vary widely during the current ramp of ITER plasmas, with negative implications for ELM mitigation during this period. A previously derived and numerically benchmarked parametrisation of the coil phase for optimal ELM mitigation on ASDEX Upgrade (Ryan et al 2017 Plasma Phys. Control. Fusion 59 024005) is validated against experimental measurements of ΔΦopt, made by observing the changes to the ELM frequency as the coil phase is scanned. It is shown that the parametrisation may predict the optimal coil phase to within 32° of the experimental measurement for n = 2 applied perturbations. It is explained that this agreement is sufficient to ensure that the ELM mitigation is not compromised by poor coil alignment. It is also found that the phase which maximises ELM mitigation is shifted from the phase which maximizes density pump-out, in contrast to theoretical expectations that ELM mitigation and density pump out have the same ΔΦ ul dependence. A time lag between the ELM frequency response and density response to the RMP is suggested as the cause. The method for numerically deriving the parametrisation is repeated for the ITER coil set, using the baseline scenario as a reference equilibrium, and the parametrisation coefficients given for future use in a feedback coil alignment system. The relative merits of square or sinusoidal toroidal current waveforms for ELM mitigation are briefly discussed.

Impedance of curved rectangular spiral coils around a conductive cylinder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burke, S. K.; Ditchburn, R. J.; Theodoulidis, T. P.

2008-07-01

Eddy-current induction due to a thin conformable coil wrapped around a long conductive cylinder is examined using a second-order vector potential formalism. Compact closed-form expressions are derived for the self- and mutual impedances of curved rectangular spiral coils (i) in free space and (ii) when wrapped around the surface of the cylindrical rod. The validity of these expressions was tested against the results of a systematic series of experiments using a cylindrical Al-alloy rod and conformable coils manufactured using flexible printed-circuit-board technology. The theoretical expressions were in very good agreement with the experimental measurements. The significance of the results for eddy-current nondestructive inspection using flexible coils and flexible coil arrays is discussed.

Six pole/eight pole single-phase motor

DOEpatents

Kirschbaum, Herbert S.

1984-01-01

A single phase alternating current electric motor is provided with a main stator winding having two coil groups which are connected to form eight poles for eight-pole operation and to form six poles for six-pole operation. Each group contains four series connected coil elements with each element spanning approximately one-seventh of the periphery of the machine. The coil groups are spaced 180 mechanical degrees apart such that each end coil of one group overlaps one of the end coils of the other group. An auxiliary stator winding having two coil groups with the same relative angular displacement as the main stator winding coil groups is included.

Six pole/eight pole single-phase motor

DOEpatents

Kirschbaum, H.S.

1984-07-31

A single phase alternating current electric motor is provided with a main stator winding having two coil groups which are connected to form eight poles for eight-pole operation and to form six poles for six-pole operation. Each group contains four series connected coil elements with each element spanning approximately one-seventh of the periphery of the machine. The coil groups are spaced 180 mechanical degrees apart such that each end coil of one group overlaps one of the end coils of the other group. An auxiliary stator winding having two coil groups with the same relative angular displacement as the main stator winding coil groups is included. 10 figs.

Development and positioning reliability of a TMS coil holder for headache research.

PubMed

Chronicle, Edward P; Pearson, A Jane; Matthews, Cheryl

2005-01-01

Accurate and reproducible coil positioning is important for headache research using transcranial magnetic stimulation protocols. We aimed to design a transcranial magnetic stimulation coil holder and demonstrate reliability of test-retest coil positioning. A coil holder was developed and manufactured according to three principles of stability, durability, and three-dimensional positional accuracy. Reliability of coil positioning was assessed by stimulating over the motor cortex of four neurologically normal subjects and recording finger muscle responses, both at a test phase and a retest phase several hours later. In all four subjects, repositioning of the transcranial magnetic stimulation coil solely on the basis of coil holder coordinates was accurate to within 2 mm. The coil holder demonstrated good test-retest reliability of coil positioning, and is thus a promising tool for transcranial magnetic stimulation-based headache research, particularly studies of prophylactic drug effect where several laboratory visits with identical coil positioning are necessary.

Improved Separations of Proteins and Sugar Derivatives Using the Small-Scale Cross-Axis Coil Planet Centrifuge with Locular Multilayer Coiled Columns.

PubMed

Shinomiya, Kazufusa; Umezawa, Motoki; Seki, Manami; Nitta, Jun; Zaima, Kazumasa; Harikai, Naoki; Ito, Yoichiro

2016-12-01

Countercurrent chromatography (CCC) is liquid-liquid partition chromatography without using a solid support matrix. This technique requires further improvement of partition efficiency and shortening theseparation time. The locular multilayer coils modified with and without mixer glass beads were developed for the separation of proteins and 4-methylumbelliferyl (MU) sugar derivatives using the small-scale cross-axis coil planet centrifuge. Proteins were well separated from each other and the separation was improved at a low flow rate of the mobile phase. On the other hand, 4-MU sugar derivatives were sufficiently resolved with short separation time at a highflow rate of the mobile phase under satisfactory stationary phase retention. Effective separations were achieved using the locular multilayer coil for proteins with aqueous-aqueous polymer phase systems and for 4-MU sugar derivatives with organic-aqueous two-phase solvent systems by inserting a glass bead into each locule.

MRI-guided Therapeutic Ultrasound : In vitro Validation of a New MR Compatible, Phased Array, Contact Endorectal Ultrasound Transducer with Active Feedback Control of Temperature Evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salomir, Rares; Rata, Mihaela; Lafon, Cyril; Melodelima, David; Chapelon, Jean-Yves; Mathias, Adrien; Cotton, François; Bonmartin, Alain; Cathignol, Dominique

2006-05-01

Contact application of high intensity ultrasound was demonstrated to be suitable for thermal ablation of sectorial tumours of the digestive duct. Experimental validation of a new MR compatible ultrasonic device is described here, dedicated to the minimal invasive therapy of localized colorectal cancer. This is a cylindrical 1D 64-element phased array transducer of 14 mm diameter and 25 mm height (Imasonic, France) allowing electronic rotation of the acoustic beam. Operating frequency ranges from 3.5 to 4.0 MHz and up to 5 effective electrical watts per element are available. A plane wave is reconstructed by simultaneous excitation of eigth adjacent elements with an appropriate phase law. Driving electronics operates outside the Faraday cage of the scanner and provides fast switching capabilities. Excellent passive and active compatibility with the MRI data acquisition has been demonstrated. In addition, feasibility of active temperature control has been demonstrated based on real-time data export out of the MR scanner and a PID feedback algorithm. Further studies will address the in-vivo validation and the integration of a miniature NMR coil for increased SNR in the near field.

Coil planet centrifugation as a means for small particle separation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herrmann, F. T.

1983-01-01

The coil planet centrifuge uses a centrifugal force field to provide separation of particles based on differences in sedimentation rates by flow through a rotating coiled tube. Three main separations are considered: (1) single phase fresh sheep and human erythrocytes, (2) single phase fixed heep and human erythrocytes, and (3) electrophoretically enhanced single phase fresh sheep and human erythrocytes.

A conformal transceive array for 7 T neuroimaging.

PubMed

Gilbert, Kyle M; Belliveau, Jean-Guy; Curtis, Andrew T; Gati, Joseph S; Klassen, L Martyn; Menon, Ravi S

2012-05-01

The first 16-channel transceive surface-coil array that conforms to the human head and operates at 298 MHz (7 T) is described. Individual coil elements were decoupled using circumferential shields around each element that extended orthogonally from the former. This decoupling method allowed elements to be constructed with arbitrary shape, size, and location to create a three-dimensional array. Radiofrequency shimming achieved a transmit-field uniformity of 20% over the whole brain and 14% over a single axial slice. During radiofrequency transmission, coil elements couple tightly to the head and reduce the amount of power necessary to achieve a mean 90° flip angle (660-μs and 480-μs pulse lengths were required for a 1-kW hard pulse when shimming over the whole brain and a single axial slice, respectively). During reception, the close proximity of coil elements to the head increases the signal-to-noise ratio in the periphery of the brain, most notably at the superior aspect of the head. The sensitivity profile of each element is localized beneath the respective shield. When combined with the achieved isolation between elements, this results in the capacity for low geometry factors during both transmit and receive: 1.04/1.06 (mean) and 1.25/1.54 (maximum) for 3-by-3 acceleration in the axial/sagittal plane. High cortical signal-to-noise ratio and parallel imaging performance make the conformal coil ideal for the study of high temporal and/or spatial cortical architecture and function. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

B1-control receive array coil (B-RAC) for reducing B1+ inhomogeneity in abdominal imaging at 3T-MRI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaneko, Yukio; Soutome, Yoshihisa; Habara, Hideta; Bito, Yoshitaka; Ochi, Hisaaki

2018-02-01

B1+ inhomogeneity in the human body increases as the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) frequency increases. Various methods have thus been developed to reduce B1+ inhomogeneity, such as a dielectric pad, a coupling coil, parallel transmit, and radio-frequency (RF) shimming. However, B1+ inhomogeneity still remains in some cases of abdominal imaging. In this study, we developed a B1-control receive array coil (B-RAC). Unlike the conventional receive array coil, B-RAC reduces B1+ inhomogeneity by using additional PIN diodes to generate the inductive loop during the RF transmit period. The inductive loop can generate dense and sparse regions of the magnetic flux, which can be used to compensate for B1+ inhomogeneity. First, B-RAC is modeled in the numerical simulation, and the spatial distributions of B1+ in a phantom and a human model were analyzed. Next, we fabricated a 12-channel B-RAC and measured receive sensitivity and B1+ maps in a 3T-MRI experiment. It was demonstrated that B-RAC can reduce B1+ inhomogeneity in the phantom and human model without increasing the maximum local specific absorption rate (SAR) in the body. B-RAC was also found to have almost the same the receive sensitivity as the conventional receive coil. Using RF shimming combined with B-RAC was revealed to more effectively reduce B1+ inhomogeneity than using only RF shimming. Therefore, B-RAC can reduce B1+ inhomogeneity while maintaining the receive sensitivity.

A Steel Ball Surface Quality Inspection Method Based on a Circumferential Eddy Current Array Sensor.

PubMed

Zhang, Huayu; Xie, Fengqin; Cao, Maoyong; Zhong, Mingming

2017-07-01

To efficiently inspect surface defects on steel ball bearings, a new method based on a circumferential eddy current array (CECA) sensor was proposed here. The best probe configuration, in terms of the coil quality factor (Q-factor), magnetic field intensity, and induced eddy current density on the surface of a sample steel ball, was determined using 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-coil probes, for analysis and comparison. The optimal lift-off from the measured steel ball, the number of probe coils, and the frequency of excitation current suitable for steel ball inspection were obtained. Using the resulting CECA sensor to inspect 46,126 steel balls showed a miss rate of ~0.02%. The sensor was inspected for surface defects as small as 0.05 mm in width and 0.1 mm in depth.

Correction coil cable

DOEpatents

Wang, S.T.

1994-11-01

A wire cable assembly adapted for the winding of electrical coils is taught. A primary intended use is for use in particle tube assemblies for the Superconducting Super Collider. The correction coil cables have wires collected in wire array with a center rib sandwiched therebetween to form a core assembly. The core assembly is surrounded by an assembly housing having an inner spiral wrap and a counter wound outer spiral wrap. An alternate embodiment of the invention is rolled into a keystoned shape to improve radial alignment of the correction coil cable on a particle tube in a particle tube assembly. 7 figs.

General design approach and practical realization of decoupling matrices for parallel transmission coils.

PubMed

Mahmood, Zohaib; McDaniel, Patrick; Guérin, Bastien; Keil, Boris; Vester, Markus; Adalsteinsson, Elfar; Wald, Lawrence L; Daniel, Luca

2016-07-01

In a coupled parallel transmit (pTx) array, the power delivered to a channel is partially distributed to other channels because of coupling. This power is dissipated in circulators resulting in a significant reduction in power efficiency. In this study, a technique for designing robust decoupling matrices interfaced between the RF amplifiers and the coils is proposed. The decoupling matrices ensure that most forward power is delivered to the load without loss of encoding capabilities of the pTx array. The decoupling condition requires that the impedance matrix seen by the power amplifiers is a diagonal matrix whose entries match the characteristic impedance of the power amplifiers. In this work, the impedance matrix of the coupled coils is diagonalized by a successive multiplication by its eigenvectors. A general design procedure and software are developed to generate automatically the hardware that implements diagonalization using passive components. The general design method is demonstrated by decoupling two example parallel transmit arrays. Our decoupling matrices achieve better than -20 db decoupling in both cases. A robust framework for designing decoupling matrices for pTx arrays is presented and validated. The proposed decoupling strategy theoretically scales to any arbitrary number of channels. Magn Reson Med 76:329-339, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Conical coils counter-current chromatography for preparative isolation and purification of tanshinones from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge.

PubMed

Liang, Junling; Meng, Jie; Guo, Mengzhe; Yang, Zhi; Wu, Shihua

2013-05-03

Modern counter-current chromatography (CCC) originated from the helical coil planet centrifuge. Recently, spiral coils were found to possess higher separation efficiency in both the retention of stationary phase and solutes resolution than other CCC coils like the helical and toroidal coils used on type-J CCC and cross-axis CCC. In this work, we built a novel conical coil CCC for the preparative isolation and purification of tanshinones from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge. The conical coils were wound on three identical upright tapered holders in head-to-tail and left-handed direction and connected in series. Compared with helical and spiral coil CCC, conical coil CCC not only placed CCC column in a two-dimensional centrifugal field, but also provided a potential centrifugal force gradient both in axial and radial directions. The extra centrifugal gradient made mobile phase move faster and enabled CCC much higher retention of stationary phase and better resolution. As a result, higher efficiency has been obtained with the solvent system of hexane-ethyl acetate-methanol-water (HEMWat) with the volume ratio of 5:5:7:3 by using conical coil CCC apparatus. Four tanshinones, including cryptotanshinone (1), tanshinone I (2), 1,2-dihydrotanshinquinone (3) and tanshinone IIA (4), were well resolved from 500mg to 1g crude samples with high purity. Furthermore, the conical coil CCC can make a much higher solid phase retention, which makes it to be a powerful separation tool with high throughput. This is the first report about conical coil CCC for separation of tanshinones and it may also be an important advancement for natural products isolation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Countercurrent Chromatographic Separation of Proteins Using an Eccentric Coiled Column with Synchronous and Nonsynchronous Type-J Planetary Motions

PubMed Central

SHINOMIYA, Kazufusa; YOSHIDA, Kazunori; TOKURA, Koji; TSUKIDATE, Etsuhiro; YANAGIDAIRA, Kazuhiro; ITO, Yoichiro

2015-01-01

Protein separation was performed using the high-speed counter-current chromatograph (HSCCC) at both synchronous and nonsynchronous type-J planetary motions. The partition efficiency was evaluated with two different column configurations, eccentric coil and toroidal coil, on the separation of a set of stable protein samples including cytochrome C, myoglobin and lysozyme with a polymer phase system composed of 12.5% (w/w) polyethylene glycol 1000 and 12.5% (w/w) dibasic potassium phosphate. Better peak resolution was obtained by the eccentric coil than by the toroidal coil using either lower or upper phase as the mobile phase. The peak resolution was further improved using the eccentric coil by the nonsynchronous type-J planetary motion with the combination of 1066 rpm of column rotation and 1000 rpm of revolution. PMID:25765276

Countercurrent chromatographic separation of proteins using an eccentric coiled column with synchronous and nonsynchronous type-J planetary motions.

PubMed

Shinomiya, Kazufusa; Yoshida, Kazunori; Tokura, Koji; Tsukidate, Etsuhiro; Yanagidaira, Kazuhiro; Ito, Yoichiro

2015-01-01

Protein separation was performed using the high-speed countercurrent chromatograph (HSCCC) at both synchronous and nonsynchronous type-J planetary motions. The partition efficiency was evaluated with two different column configurations, eccentric coil and toroidal coil, on the separation of a set of stable protein samples including cytochrome C, myoglobin and lysozyme with a polymer phase system composed of 12.5% (w/w) polyethylene glycol 1000 and 12.5% (w/w) dibasic potassium phosphate. Better peak resolution was obtained by the eccentric coil than by the toroidal coil using either lower or upper phase as the mobile phase. The peak resolution was further improved using the eccentric coil by the nonsynchronous type-J planetary motion with the combination of 1066 rpm of column rotation and 1000 rpm of revolution.

Investigation of the use of uniaxial comb-shaped Galfenol patches for a guided wave-based magnetostrictive phased array sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoo, Byungseok; Pines, Darryll J.

2018-05-01

This paper investigates the use of uniaxial comb-shaped Fe-Ga alloy (Galfenol) patches in the development of a Magnetostrictive Phased Array Sensor (MPAS) for the Guided Wave (GW) damage inspection technique. The MPAS consists of six highly-textured Galfenol patches with a <100> preferred orientation and a Hexagonal Magnetic Circuit Device (HMCD). The Galfenol patches individually aligned to distinct azimuthal directions were permanently attached to a thin aluminum plate specimen. The detachable HMCD encloses a biasing magnet and six sensing coils with unique directional sensing preferences, equivalent to the specific orientation of the discrete Galfenol patches. The preliminary experimental tests validated that the GW sensing performance and directional sensitivity of the Galfenol-based sensor were significantly improved by the magnetic shape anisotropy effect on the fabrication of uniaxial comb fingers to a Galfenol disc patch. We employed a series of uniaxial comb-shaped Galfenol patches to form an MPAS with a hexagonal sensor configuration, uniformly arranged within a diameter of 1". The Galfenol MPAS was utilized to identify structural damage simulated by loosening joint bolts used to fasten the plate specimen to a frame structure. We compared the damage detection results of the MPAS with those of a PZT Phased Array Sensor (PPAS) collocated to the back surface of the plate. The directional filtering characteristic of the Galfenol MPAS led to acquiring less complicated GW signals than the PPAS using omnidirectional PZT discs. However, due to the detection limit of the standard hexagonal patterned array, the two array sensors apparently identified only the loosened bolts located along one of the preferred orientations of the array configuration. The use of the fixed number of the Galfenol patches for the MPAS construction constrained the capability of sensing point multiplication of the HMCD by altering its rotational orientation, resulting in such damage detection limitation of the MPAS.

Improving the spatial accuracy in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) based on the blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) effect: benefits from parallel imaging and a 32-channel head array coil at 1.5 Tesla.

PubMed

Fellner, C; Doenitz, C; Finkenzeller, T; Jung, E M; Rennert, J; Schlaier, J

2009-01-01

Geometric distortions and low spatial resolution are current limitations in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The aim of this study was to evaluate if application of parallel imaging or significant reduction of voxel size in combination with a new 32-channel head array coil can reduce those drawbacks at 1.5 T for a simple hand motor task. Therefore, maximum t-values (tmax) in different regions of activation, time-dependent signal-to-noise ratios (SNR(t)) as well as distortions within the precentral gyrus were evaluated. Comparing fMRI with and without parallel imaging in 17 healthy subjects revealed significantly reduced geometric distortions in anterior-posterior direction. Using parallel imaging, tmax only showed a mild reduction (7-11%) although SNR(t) was significantly diminished (25%). In 7 healthy subjects high-resolution (2 x 2 x 2 mm3) fMRI was compared with standard fMRI (3 x 3 x 3 mm3) in a 32-channel coil and with high-resolution fMRI in a 12-channel coil. The new coil yielded a clear improvement for tmax (21-32%) and SNR(t) (51%) in comparison with the 12-channel coil. Geometric distortions were smaller due to the smaller voxel size. Therefore, the reduction in tmax (8-16%) and SNR(t) (52%) in the high-resolution experiment seems to be tolerable with this coil. In conclusion, parallel imaging is an alternative to reduce geometric distortions in fMRI at 1.5 T. Using a 32-channel coil, reduction of the voxel size might be the preferable way to improve spatial accuracy.

Enhanced magnetic field probe array for improved excluded flux calculations on the C-2U advanced beam-driven field-reversed configuration plasma experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roche, T.; Thompson, M. C.; Mendoza, R.; Allfrey, I.; Garate, E.; Romero, J.; Douglass, J.

2016-11-01

External flux conserving coils were installed onto the exterior of the C-2U [M. W. Binderbauer et al., Phys. Plasmas 22, 056110 (2015)] confinement vessel to increase the flux confinement time of the system. The 0.5 in. stainless steel vessel wall has a skin time of ˜5 ms. The addition of the external copper coils effectively increases this time to ˜7 ms. This led to better-confined/longer-lived field-reversed configuration (FRC) plasmas. The fringing fields generated by the external coils have the side effect of rendering external field measurements invalid. Such measurements were key to the previous method of excluded flux calculation [M. C. Thompson et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 83, 10D709 (2012)]. A new array of B-dot probes and Rogowski coils were installed to better determine the amount of flux leaked out of the system and ultimately provide a more robust measurement of plasma parameters related to pressure balance including the excluded flux radius. The B-dot probes are surface mountable chip inductors with inductance of 33 μH capable of measuring the DC magnetic field and transient field, due to resistive current decay in the wall/coils, when coupled with active integrators. The Rogowski coils measure the total change in current in each external coil (150 A/2 ms). Currents were also actively driven in the external coils. This renders the assumption of total flux conservation invalid which further complicates the analysis process. The ultimate solution to these issues and the record breaking resultant FRC lifetimes will be presented.

Enhanced magnetic field probe array for improved excluded flux calculations on the C-2U advanced beam-driven field-reversed configuration plasma experiment.

PubMed

Roche, T; Thompson, M C; Mendoza, R; Allfrey, I; Garate, E; Romero, J; Douglass, J

2016-11-01

External flux conserving coils were installed onto the exterior of the C-2U [M. W. Binderbauer et al., Phys. Plasmas 22, 056110 (2015)] confinement vessel to increase the flux confinement time of the system. The 0.5 in. stainless steel vessel wall has a skin time of ∼5 ms. The addition of the external copper coils effectively increases this time to ∼7 ms. This led to better-confined/longer-lived field-reversed configuration (FRC) plasmas. The fringing fields generated by the external coils have the side effect of rendering external field measurements invalid. Such measurements were key to the previous method of excluded flux calculation [M. C. Thompson et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 83, 10D709 (2012)]. A new array of B-dot probes and Rogowski coils were installed to better determine the amount of flux leaked out of the system and ultimately provide a more robust measurement of plasma parameters related to pressure balance including the excluded flux radius. The B-dot probes are surface mountable chip inductors with inductance of 33 μH capable of measuring the DC magnetic field and transient field, due to resistive current decay in the wall/coils, when coupled with active integrators. The Rogowski coils measure the total change in current in each external coil (150 A/2 ms). Currents were also actively driven in the external coils. This renders the assumption of total flux conservation invalid which further complicates the analysis process. The ultimate solution to these issues and the record breaking resultant FRC lifetimes will be presented.

Peripheral nerve stimulation characteristics of an asymmetric head-only gradient coil compatible with a high-channel-count receiver array.

PubMed

Lee, Seung-Kyun; Mathieu, Jean-Baptiste; Graziani, Dominic; Piel, Joseph; Budesheim, Eric; Fiveland, Eric; Hardy, Christopher J; Tan, Ek Tsoon; Amm, Bruce; Foo, Thomas K-F; Bernstein, Matt A; Huston, John; Shu, Yunhong; Schenck, John F

2016-12-01

To characterize peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) of an asymmetric head-only gradient coil that is compatible with a commercial high-channel-count receive-only array. Two prototypes of an asymmetric head-only gradient coil set with a 42-cm inner diameter were constructed for brain imaging at 3T with maximum performance specifications of up to 85 mT/m and 708 T/m/s. Tests were performed in 24 volunteers to measure PNS thresholds with the transverse (x = left-right; y = anterior-posterior [A/P]) gradient coils of both prototypes. Fourteen of these 24 volunteers were also tested for the z-gradient PNS in the second prototype and were scanned with high-slew-rate echo planar imaging (EPI) immediately after the PNS tests. For both prototypes, the y-gradient PNS threshold was markedly higher than the x-gradient threshold. The z-gradient threshold was intermediate between those for the x- and y-coils. Of the 24 volunteers, only two experienced y-gradient PNS at 80 mT/m and 500 T/m/s. All volunteers underwent the EPI scan without PNS when the readout direction was set to A/P. Measured PNS characteristics of asymmetric head-only gradient coil prototypes indicate that such coils, especially in the A/P direction, can be used for fast EPI readout in high-performance neuroimaging scans with substantially reduced PNS concerns compared with conventional whole body gradient coils. Magn Reson Med 76:1939-1950, 2016. © 2015 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2015 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Enhanced magnetic field probe array for improved excluded flux calculations on the C-2U advanced beam-driven field-reversed configuration plasma experiment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Roche, T., E-mail: troche@trialphaenergy.com; Thompson, M. C.; Mendoza, R.

2016-11-15

External flux conserving coils were installed onto the exterior of the C-2U [M. W. Binderbauer et al., Phys. Plasmas 22, 056110 (2015)] confinement vessel to increase the flux confinement time of the system. The 0.5 in. stainless steel vessel wall has a skin time of ∼5 ms. The addition of the external copper coils effectively increases this time to ∼7 ms. This led to better-confined/longer-lived field-reversed configuration (FRC) plasmas. The fringing fields generated by the external coils have the side effect of rendering external field measurements invalid. Such measurements were key to the previous method of excluded flux calculation [M.more » C. Thompson et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 83, 10D709 (2012)]. A new array of B-dot probes and Rogowski coils were installed to better determine the amount of flux leaked out of the system and ultimately provide a more robust measurement of plasma parameters related to pressure balance including the excluded flux radius. The B-dot probes are surface mountable chip inductors with inductance of 33 μH capable of measuring the DC magnetic field and transient field, due to resistive current decay in the wall/coils, when coupled with active integrators. The Rogowski coils measure the total change in current in each external coil (150 A/2 ms). Currents were also actively driven in the external coils. This renders the assumption of total flux conservation invalid which further complicates the analysis process. The ultimate solution to these issues and the record breaking resultant FRC lifetimes will be presented.« less

Improved Separations of Proteins and Sugar Derivatives Using the Small-Scale Cross-Axis Coil Planet Centrifuge with Locular Multilayer Coiled Columns

PubMed Central

Shinomiya, Kazufusa; Umezawa, Motoki; Seki, Manami; Nitta, Jun; Zaima, Kazumasa; Harikai, Naoki; Ito, Yoichiro

2016-01-01

1) Background Countercurrent chromatography (CCC) is liquid-liquid partition chromatography without using a solid support matrix. This technique requires further improvement of partition efficiency and shortening theseparation time. 2) Methods The locular multilayer coils modified with and without mixer glass beads were developed for the separation of proteins and 4-methylumbelliferyl (MU) sugar derivatives using the small-scale cross-axis coil planet centrifuge. 3) Results Proteins were well separated from each other and the separation was improved at a low flow rate of the mobile phase. On the other hand, 4-MU sugar derivatives were sufficiently resolved with short separation time at a highflow rate of the mobile phase under satisfactory stationary phase retention. 4) Conclusion Effective separations were achieved using the locular multilayer coil for proteins with aqueous-aqueous polymer phase systems and for 4-MU sugar derivatives with organic-aqueous two-phase solvent systems by inserting a glass bead into each locule. PMID:27891507

The tripartite motif coiled-coil is an elongated antiparallel hairpin dimer.

PubMed

Sanchez, Jacint G; Okreglicka, Katarzyna; Chandrasekaran, Viswanathan; Welker, Jordan M; Sundquist, Wesley I; Pornillos, Owen

2014-02-18

Tripartite motif (TRIM) proteins make up a large family of coiled-coil-containing RING E3 ligases that function in many cellular processes, particularly innate antiviral response pathways. Both dimerization and higher-order assembly are important elements of TRIM protein function, but the atomic details of TRIM tertiary and quaternary structure have not been fully understood. Here, we present crystallographic and biochemical analyses of the TRIM coiled-coil and show that TRIM proteins dimerize by forming interdigitating antiparallel helical hairpins that position the N-terminal catalytic RING domains at opposite ends of the dimer and the C-terminal substrate-binding domains at the center. The dimer core comprises an antiparallel coiled-coil with a distinctive, symmetric pattern of flanking heptad and central hendecad repeats that appear to be conserved across the entire TRIM family. Our studies reveal how the coiled-coil organizes TRIM25 to polyubiquitylate the RIG-I/viral RNA recognition complex and how dimers of the TRIM5α protein are arranged within hexagonal arrays that recognize the HIV-1 capsid lattice and restrict retroviral replication.

The tripartite motif coiled-coil is an elongated antiparallel hairpin dimer

PubMed Central

Sanchez, Jacint G.; Okreglicka, Katarzyna; Chandrasekaran, Viswanathan; Welker, Jordan M.; Sundquist, Wesley I.; Pornillos, Owen

2014-01-01

Tripartite motif (TRIM) proteins make up a large family of coiled-coil-containing RING E3 ligases that function in many cellular processes, particularly innate antiviral response pathways. Both dimerization and higher-order assembly are important elements of TRIM protein function, but the atomic details of TRIM tertiary and quaternary structure have not been fully understood. Here, we present crystallographic and biochemical analyses of the TRIM coiled-coil and show that TRIM proteins dimerize by forming interdigitating antiparallel helical hairpins that position the N-terminal catalytic RING domains at opposite ends of the dimer and the C-terminal substrate-binding domains at the center. The dimer core comprises an antiparallel coiled-coil with a distinctive, symmetric pattern of flanking heptad and central hendecad repeats that appear to be conserved across the entire TRIM family. Our studies reveal how the coiled-coil organizes TRIM25 to polyubiquitylate the RIG-I/viral RNA recognition complex and how dimers of the TRIM5α protein are arranged within hexagonal arrays that recognize the HIV-1 capsid lattice and restrict retroviral replication. PMID:24550273

1 H MR spectroscopy in cervical carcinoma using external phase array body coil at 3.0 Tesla: Prediction of poor prognostic human papillomavirus genotypes.

PubMed

Lin, Gigin; Lai, Chyong-Huey; Tsai, Shang-Yueh; Lin, Yu-Chun; Huang, Yu-Ting; Wu, Ren-Chin; Yang, Lan-Yan; Lu, Hsin-Ying; Chao, Angel; Wang, Chiun-Chieh; Ng, Koon-Kwan; Ng, Shu-Hang; Chou, Hung-Hsueh; Yen, Tzu-Chen; Hung, Ji-Hong

2017-03-01

To assess the clinical value of proton ( 1 H) MR spectroscopy in cervical carcinomas, in the prediction of poor prognostic human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes as well as persistent disease following concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). 1 H MR spectroscopy using external phase array coil was performed in 52 consecutive cervical cancer patients at 3 Tesla (T). Poor prognostic HPV genotypes (alpha-7 species or absence of HPV infection) and persistent cervical carcinoma after CCRT were recorded. Statistical significance was calculated with the Mann-Whitney two-sided nonparametric test and areas under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) analysis. A 4.3-fold (P = 0.032) increased level of methyl resonance at 0.9 ppm was found in the poor prognostic HPV genotypes, mainly attributed to the presence of HPV18, with a sensitivity of 75%, a specificity of 81%, and an AUC of 0.76. Poor prognostic HPV genotypes were more frequently observed in patients with adeno-/adenosquamous carcinoma (Chi-square, P < 0.0001). In prediction of the four patients with persistent disease after CCRT, elevated methyl resonance demonstrated a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 74%, and an AUC of 0.82. 1 H MR spectroscopy at 3T can be used to depict the elevated lipid resonance levels in cervical carcinomas, as well as help to predict the poor prognostic HPV genotypes and persistent disease following CCRT. Further large studies with longer follow up times are warranted to validate our initial findings. 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:899-907. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Parallel MR Imaging with Accelerations Beyond the Number of Receiver Channels Using Real Image Reconstruction.

PubMed

Ji, Jim; Wright, Steven

2005-01-01

Parallel imaging using multiple phased-array coils and receiver channels has become an effective approach to high-speed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To obtain high spatiotemporal resolution, the k-space is subsampled and later interpolated using multiple channel data. Higher subsampling factors result in faster image acquisition. However, the subsampling factors are upper-bounded by the number of parallel channels. Phase constraints have been previously proposed to overcome this limitation with some success. In this paper, we demonstrate that in certain applications it is possible to obtain acceleration factors potentially up to twice the channel numbers by using a real image constraint. Data acquisition and processing methods to manipulate and estimate of the image phase information are presented for improving image reconstruction. In-vivo brain MRI experimental results show that accelerations up to 6 are feasible with 4-channel data.

Coil combination for receive array spectroscopy: Are data-driven methods superior to methods using computed field maps?

PubMed

Rodgers, Christopher T; Robson, Matthew D

2016-02-01

Combining spectra from receive arrays, particularly X-nuclear spectra with low signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), is challenging. We test whether data-driven combination methods are better than using computed coil sensitivities. Several combination algorithms are recast into the notation of Roemer's classic formula, showing that they differ primarily in their estimation of coil receive sensitivities. This viewpoint reveals two extensions of the whitened singular-value decomposition (WSVD) algorithm, using temporal or temporal + spatial apodization to improve the coil sensitivities, and thus the combined spectral SNR. Radiofrequency fields from an array were simulated and used to make synthetic spectra. These were combined with 10 algorithms. The combined spectra were then assessed in terms of their SNR. Validation used phantoms and cardiac (31) P spectra from five subjects at 3T. Combined spectral SNRs from simulations, phantoms, and humans showed the same trends. In phantoms, the combined SNR using computed coil sensitivities was lower than with WSVD combination whenever the WSVD SNR was >14 (or >11 with temporal apodization, or >9 with temporal + spatial apodization). These new apodized WSVD methods gave higher SNRs than other data-driven methods. In the human torso, at frequencies ≥49 MHz, data-driven combination is preferable to using computed coil sensitivities. Magn Reson, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Magn Reson Med 75:473-487, 2016. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Magnetic induction tomography of objects for security applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ward, Rob; Joseph, Max; Langley, Abbi; Taylor, Stuart; Watson, Joe C.

2017-10-01

A coil array imaging system has been further developed from previous investigations, focusing on designing its application for fast screening of small bags or parcels, with a view to the production of a compact instrument for security applications. In addition to reducing image acquisition times, work was directed toward exploring potential cost effective manufacturing routes. Based on magnetic induction tomography and eddy-current principles, the instrument captured images of conductive targets using a lock-in amplifier, individually multiplexing signals between a primary driver coil and a 20 by 21 imaging array of secondary passive coils constructed using a reproducible multiple tile design. The design was based on additive manufacturing techniques and provided 2 orthogonal imaging planes with an ability to reconstruct images in less than 10 seconds. An assessment of one of the imaging planes is presented. This technique potentially provides a cost effective threat evaluation technique that may compliment conventional radiographic approaches.

Separation of parallel encoded complex-valued slices (SPECS) from a single complex-valued aliased coil image.

PubMed

Rowe, Daniel B; Bruce, Iain P; Nencka, Andrew S; Hyde, James S; Kociuba, Mary C

2016-04-01

Achieving a reduction in scan time with minimal inter-slice signal leakage is one of the significant obstacles in parallel MR imaging. In fMRI, multiband-imaging techniques accelerate data acquisition by simultaneously magnetizing the spatial frequency spectrum of multiple slices. The SPECS model eliminates the consequential inter-slice signal leakage from the slice unaliasing, while maintaining an optimal reduction in scan time and activation statistics in fMRI studies. When the combined k-space array is inverse Fourier reconstructed, the resulting aliased image is separated into the un-aliased slices through a least squares estimator. Without the additional spatial information from a phased array of receiver coils, slice separation in SPECS is accomplished with acquired aliased images in shifted FOV aliasing pattern, and a bootstrapping approach of incorporating reference calibration images in an orthogonal Hadamard pattern. The aliased slices are effectively separated with minimal expense to the spatial and temporal resolution. Functional activation is observed in the motor cortex, as the number of aliased slices is increased, in a bilateral finger tapping fMRI experiment. The SPECS model incorporates calibration reference images together with coefficients of orthogonal polynomials into an un-aliasing estimator to achieve separated images, with virtually no residual artifacts and functional activation detection in separated images. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Microwave electron cyclotron electron resonance (ECR) ion source with a large, uniformly distributed, axially symmetric, ECR plasma volume

DOEpatents

Alton, Gerald D.

1996-01-01

An electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) ion source includes a primary mirror coil disposed coaxially around a vacuum vessel in which a plasma is induced and introducing a solenoidal ECR-producing field throughout the length of the vacuum vessel. Radial plasma confinement is provided by a multi-cusp, multi-polar permanent magnet array disposed azimuthally around the vessel and within the primary mirror coil. Axial confinement is provided either by multi-cusp permanent magnets at the opposite axial ends of the vessel, or by secondary mirror coils disposed on opposite sides of the primary coil.

SBIR Phase II Final Report: Low cost Autonomous NMR and Multi-sensor Soil Monitoring Instrument

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Walsh, David O.

In this 32-month SBIR Phase 2 program, Vista Clara designed, assembled and successfully tested four new NMR instruments for soil moisture measurement and monitoring: An enhanced performance man-portable Dart NMR logging probe and control unit for rapid, mobile measurement in core holes and 2” PVC access wells; A prototype 4-level Dart NMR monitoring probe and prototype multi-sensor soil monitoring control unit for long-term unattended monitoring of soil moisture and other measurements in-situ; A non-invasive 1m x 1m Discus NMR soil moisture sensor with surface based magnet/coil array for rapid measurement of soil moisture in the top 50 cm of themore » subsurface; A non-invasive, ultra-lightweight Earth’s field surface NMR instrument for non-invasive measurement and mapping of soil moisture in the top 3 meters of the subsurface. The Phase 2 research and development achieved most, but not all of our technical objectives. The single-coil Dart in-situ sensor and control unit were fully developed, demonstrated and successfully commercialized within the Phase 2 period of performance. The multi-level version of the Dart probe was designed, assembled and demonstrated in Phase 2, but its final assembly and testing were delayed until close to the end of the Phase 2 performance period, which limited our opportunities for demonstration in field settings. Likewise, the multi-sensor version of the Dart control unit was designed and assembled, but not in time for it to be deployed for any long-term monitoring demonstrations. The prototype ultra-lightweight surface NMR instrument was developed and demonstrated, and this result will be carried forward into the development of a new flexible surface NMR instrument and commercial product in 2018.« less

Effect of Branching on Rod-coil Polyimides as Membrane Materials for Lithium Polymer Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meador, Mary Ann B.; Cubon, Valerie A.; Scheiman, Daniel A.; Bennett, William R.

2003-01-01

This paper describes a series of rod-coil block co-polymers that produce easy to fabricate, dimensionally stable films with good ionic conductivity down to room temperature for use as electrolytes for lithium polymer batteries. The polymers consist of short, rigid rod polyimide segments, alternating with flexible, polyalkylene oxide coil segments. The highly incompatible rods and coils should phase separate, especially in the presence of lithium ions. The coil phase would allow for conduction of lithium ions, while the rigid rod phase would provide a high degree of dimensional stability. An optimization study was carried out to study the effect of four variables (degree of branching, formulated molecular weight, polymerization solvent and lithium salt concentration) on ionic conductivity, glass transition temperature and dimensional stability in this system.

Stability considerations for magnetic suspension systems using electromagnets mounted in a planar array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Groom, Nelson J.; Britcher, Colin P.

1991-01-01

Mathematical models of a 5, 6, 7, and 8 coil large gap magnetic suspension system (MSDS) are presented. Some of the topics covered include: force and torque equations, reduction of state-space form, natural modes, origins of modes, effect of rotation in azimuth (yaw), future work, and n-coil ring conclusions.

Open-loop characteristics of magnetic suspension systems using electromagnets mounted in a planar array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Groom, Nelson J.; Britcher, Colin P.

1992-01-01

The open-loop characteristics of a Large-Gap Magnetic Suspension System (LGMSS) were studied and numerical results are presented. The LGMSS considered provides five-degree-of-freedom control. The suspended element is a cylinder that contains a core composed of permanent magnet material. The magnetic actuators are air core electromagnets mounted in a planar array. Configurations utilizing five, six, seven, and eight electromagnets were investigated and all configurations were found to be controllable from coil currents and observable from suspended element positions. Results indicate that increasing the number of coils has an insignificant effect on mode shapes and frequencies.

Signal-to-noise ratio and MR tissue parameters in human brain imaging at 3, 7, and 9.4 tesla using current receive coil arrays.

PubMed

Pohmann, Rolf; Speck, Oliver; Scheffler, Klaus

2016-02-01

Relaxation times, transmit homogeneity, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and parallel imaging g-factor were determined in the human brain at 3T, 7T, and 9.4T, using standard, tight-fitting coil arrays. The same human subjects were scanned at all three field strengths, using identical sequence parameters and similar 31- or 32-channel receive coil arrays. The SNR of three-dimensional (3D) gradient echo images was determined using a multiple replica approach and corrected with measured flip angle and T2 (*) distributions and the T1 of white matter to obtain the intrinsic SNR. The g-factor maps were derived from 3D gradient echo images with several GRAPPA accelerations. As expected, T1 values increased, T2 (*) decreased and the B1 -homogeneity deteriorated with increasing field. The SNR showed a distinctly supralinear increase with field strength by a factor of 3.10 ± 0.20 from 3T to 7T, and 1.76 ± 0.13 from 7T to 9.4T over the entire cerebrum. The g-factors did not show the expected decrease, indicating a dominating role of coil design. In standard experimental conditions, SNR increased supralinearly with field strength (SNR ∼ B0 (1.65) ). To take full advantage of this gain, the deteriorating B1 -homogeneity and the decreasing T2 (*) have to be overcome. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

MR imaging with remote reception using a coil array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vazquez, F.; Marrufo, O.; Martin, R.; Rodriguez, A. O.

2012-10-01

A strategy for imaging a large field-of-view has recently been proposed applying remote detection with a waveguide and single loop coils. RF coils produce a traveling-wave propagating through the bore of the magnet, which is large enough so the cutoff frequency is below the Larmor frequency. This assumption also considers that a human subject inside the magnet bore. We applied the travelling-wave concept to generate images of a human leg at 3 Tesla. Two circular-shaped coils were used as the reception device and a whole-body coil was used for transmission. Images showed a good signal-to-noise ratio along the entire leg. This experimental results contradict the assumption that a whole-body 7T/65cm imager or higher was necessary to generate images with this approach.

Measurement of Two-Phase Flow Characteristics Under Microgravity Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keshock, E. G.; Lin, C. S.; Edwards, L. G.; Knapp, J.; Harrison, M. E.; Xhang, X.

1999-01-01

This paper describes the technical approach and initial results of a test program for studying two-phase annular flow under the simulated microgravity conditions of KC-135 aircraft flights. A helical coil flow channel orientation was utilized in order to circumvent the restrictions normally associated with drop tower or aircraft flight tests with respect to two-phase flow, namely spatial restrictions preventing channel lengths of sufficient size to accurately measure pressure drops. Additionally, the helical coil geometry is of interest in itself, considering that operating in a microgravity environment vastly simplifies the two-phase flows occurring in coiled flow channels under 1-g conditions for virtually any orientation. Pressure drop measurements were made across four stainless steel coil test sections, having a range of inside tube diameters (0.95 to 1.9 cm), coil diameters (25 - 50 cm), and length-to-diameter ratios (380 - 720). High-speed video photographic flow observations were made in the transparent straight sections immediately preceding and following the coil test sections. A transparent coil of tygon tubing of 1.9 cm inside diameter was also used to obtain flow visualization information within the coil itself. Initial test data has been obtained from one set of KC-135 flight tests, along with benchmark ground tests. Preliminary results appear to indicate that accurate pressure drop data is obtainable using a helical coil geometry that may be related to straight channel flow behavior. Also, video photographic results appear to indicate that the observed slug-annular flow regime transitions agree quite reasonably with the Dukler microgravity map.

Pole-phase modulated toroidal winding for an induction machine

DOEpatents

Miller, John Michael; Ostovic, Vlado

1999-11-02

A stator (10) for an induction machine for a vehicle has a cylindrical core (12) with inner and outer slots (26, 28) extending longitudinally along the inner and outer peripheries between the end faces (22, 24). Each outer slot is associated with several adjacent inner slots. A plurality of toroidal coils (14) are wound about the core and laid in the inner and outer slots. Each coil occupies a single inner slot and is laid in the associated outer slot thereby minimizing the distance the coil extends from the end faces and minimizing the length of the induction machine. The toroidal coils are configured for an arbitrary pole phase modulation wherein the coils are configured with variable numbers of phases and poles for providing maximum torque for cranking and switchable to a another phase and pole configuration for alternator operation. An adaptor ring (36) circumferentially positioned about the stator improves mechanical strength, and provides a coolant channel manifold (34) for removing heat produced in stator windings during operation.

Toroidal plasma response based ELM control coil design for EU DEMO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Lina; Liu, Yueqiang; Wenninger, Ronald; Liu, Yue; Wang, Shuo; Yang, Xu

2018-07-01

Magnetic coil design study is carried out, for the purpose of mitigating or suppressing the edge localized modes (ELMs) in a EU DEMO reference scenario. The coil design, including both the coil geometry and the coil current requirement, is based on criteria derived from the linear, full toroidal plasma response computed by the MARS-F code (Liu et al 2000 Phys. Plasma 7 3681). With a single midplane row of coils, a coil size covering about 30°–50° poloidal angle of the torus is found to be optimal for ELM control using the n  >  2 resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) field (n is the toroidal mode number). For off-midplane coils, the coils’ poloidal location, as well as the relative toroidal phase (coil phasing) between the upper and lower rows of coils, also sensitively affects the ELM control according to the specified criteria. Assuming that the optimal coil phasing can always be straightforwardly implemented, following a simple analytic model derived from toroidal computations, it is better to place the two off-midplane rows of coils near the midplane, in order to maximize the resonant field amplitude and to have larger effects on ELMs. With the same coil current, the ex-vessel coils can be made as effective as the in-vessel coils, at the expense of increasing the ex-vessel coils’ size. This is however possible only for low-n (n  =  1–3) RMP fields. With these low-n fields, and assuming 300 kAt maximal coil current, the computed plasma displacement near the X-point can meet the 10 mm level, which we use as the conservative indicator for achieving ELM mitigation in EU DEMO. The risk of partial control coil failure in EU DEMO is also assessed based on toroidal modeling, indicating that the large n  =  1 sideband due to coil failure may need to be corrected, if the nominal n  >  1 coil configurations are used for ELM control in EU DEMO.

Coil Compression for Accelerated Imaging with Cartesian Sampling

PubMed Central

Zhang, Tao; Pauly, John M.; Vasanawala, Shreyas S.; Lustig, Michael

2012-01-01

MRI using receiver arrays with many coil elements can provide high signal-to-noise ratio and increase parallel imaging acceleration. At the same time, the growing number of elements results in larger datasets and more computation in the reconstruction. This is of particular concern in 3D acquisitions and in iterative reconstructions. Coil compression algorithms are effective in mitigating this problem by compressing data from many channels into fewer virtual coils. In Cartesian sampling there often are fully sampled k-space dimensions. In this work, a new coil compression technique for Cartesian sampling is presented that exploits the spatially varying coil sensitivities in these non-subsampled dimensions for better compression and computation reduction. Instead of directly compressing in k-space, coil compression is performed separately for each spatial location along the fully-sampled directions, followed by an additional alignment process that guarantees the smoothness of the virtual coil sensitivities. This important step provides compatibility with autocalibrating parallel imaging techniques. Its performance is not susceptible to artifacts caused by a tight imaging fieldof-view. High quality compression of in-vivo 3D data from a 32 channel pediatric coil into 6 virtual coils is demonstrated. PMID:22488589

An accurate real-time model of maglev planar motor based on compound Simpson numerical integration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kou, Baoquan; Xing, Feng; Zhang, Lu; Zhou, Yiheng; Liu, Jiaqi

2017-05-01

To realize the high-speed and precise control of the maglev planar motor, a more accurate real-time electromagnetic model, which considers the influence of the coil corners, is proposed in this paper. Three coordinate systems for the stator, mover and corner coil are established. The coil is divided into two segments, the straight coil segment and the corner coil segment, in order to obtain a complete electromagnetic model. When only take the first harmonic of the flux density distribution of a Halbach magnet array into account, the integration method can be carried out towards the two segments according to Lorenz force law. The force and torque analysis formula of the straight coil segment can be derived directly from Newton-Leibniz formula, however, this is not applicable to the corner coil segment. Therefore, Compound Simpson numerical integration method is proposed in this paper to solve the corner segment. With the validation of simulation and experiment, the proposed model has high accuracy and can realize practical application easily.

Switchable Polymer Based Thin Film Coils as a Power Module for Wireless Neural Interfaces.

PubMed

Kim, S; Zoschke, K; Klein, M; Black, D; Buschick, K; Toepper, M; Tathireddy, P; Harrison, R; Solzbacher, F

2007-05-01

Reliable chronic operation of implantable medical devices such as the Utah Electrode Array (UEA) for neural interface requires elimination of transcutaneous wire connections for signal processing, powering and communication of the device. A wireless power source that allows integration with the UEA is therefore necessary. While (rechargeable) micro batteries as well as biological micro fuel cells are yet far from meeting the power density and lifetime requirements of an implantable neural interface device, inductive coupling between two coils is a promising approach to power such a device with highly restricted dimensions. The power receiving coils presented in this paper were designed to maximize the inductance and quality factor of the coils and microfabricated using polymer based thin film technologies. A flexible configuration of stacked thin film coils allows parallel and serial switching, thereby allowing to tune the coil's resonance frequency. The electrical properties of the fabricated coils were characterized and their power transmission performance was investigated in laboratory condition.

MR thermometry analysis program for laser- or high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)-induced heating at a clinical MR scanner

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Eun Ju; Jeong, Kiyoung; Oh, Seung Jae; Kim, Daehong; Park, Eun Hae; Lee, Young Han; Suh, Jin-Suck

2014-12-01

Magnetic resonance (MR) thermometry is a noninvasive method for monitoring local temperature change during thermal therapy. In this study, a MR temperature analysis program was established for a laser with gold nanorods (GNRs) and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)-induced heating MR thermometry. The MR temperature map was reconstructed using the water proton resonance frequency (PRF) method. The temperature-sensitive phase difference was acquired by using complex number subtraction instead of direct phase subtraction in order to avoid another phase unwrapping process. A temperature map-analyzing program was developed and implemented in IDL (Interactive Data Language) for effective temperature monitoring. This one program was applied to two different heating devices at a clinical MR scanner. All images were acquired with the fast spoiled gradient echo (fSPGR) pulse sequence on a 3.0 T GE Discovery MR750 scanner with an 8-channel knee array coil or with a home-built small surface coil. The analyzed temperature values were confirmed by using values simultaneously measured with an optical temperature probe (R2 = 0.996). The temperature change in small samples induced by a laser or by HIFU was analyzed by using a raw data, that consisted of complex numbers. This study shows that our MR thermometry analysis program can be used for thermal therapy study with a laser or HIFU at a clinical MR scanner. It can also be applied to temperature monitoring for any other thermal therapy based on the PRF method.

Field, coil, and echo-time influence on sensitivity and reproducibility of brain proton MR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Inglese, M; Spindler, M; Babb, J S; Sunenshine, P; Law, M; Gonen, O

2006-03-01

Clinical MR imaging scanners now offer many choices of hardware configurations that were not available in the first 25 years of their existence. Our goal was to assess the influence of coil technology, magnetic field strength, and echo time (TE) on the sensitivity, reflected by the signal intensity-to-noise-ratio (SNR) and reproducibility of proton MR spectroscopy (1H-MR spectroscopy). The SNR, the intersubject reproducibility, and the intrasubject reproducibility of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine (Cr), and choline (Cho) levels were compared at the common TEs of 30, 144, and 288 ms, by using 1H-MR spectroscopy in 6 volunteers at (1) 3T with a single-element quadrature (SEQ); (2) 1.5T with SEQ; and (3) 1.5T with a 12-channel phased-array (PA) head coil. In terms of sensitivity, the best SNR for all metabolites was obtained at the shortest TE (30 ms). It was comparable between the 3 and 1.5T with the PA, but approximately 35% better than the 1.5T with SEQ. This SNR difference declined <25% at TE of 144 ms and to equity among all imagers at TE of 288 ms. Reproducibility, reflected in the coefficient of variation (CV), was best for NAA at TE of 288 ms, 15%-50% better than at TE of 30 ms in either gray (GM) or white matter (WM). The CV for Cr was best, at TE of 288 ms for GM, but its WM results were independent of TE. Metabolite level reproducibility did not depend on coil technology or magnetic field strength. For the same coil type, the SNR of all major metabolites was approximately 35% better at 3T than at 1.5T. This advantage, however, was offset at 1.5T with a PA coil, making it a cost-effective upgrade for existing scanners. Surprisingly and counterintuitively, despite the lowest SNR, the best reproducibility was obtained at the longest TE (288 ms), regardless of field or coil.

WE-G-18C-05: Characterization of Cross-Vendor, Cross-Field Strength MR Image Intensity Variations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Paulson, E; Prah, D

2014-06-15

Purpose: Variations in MR image intensity and image intensity nonuniformity (IINU) can challenge the accuracy of intensity-based image segmentation and registration algorithms commonly applied in radiotherapy. The goal of this work was to characterize MR image intensity variations across scanner vendors and field strengths commonly used in radiotherapy. Methods: ACR-MRI phantom images were acquired at 1.5T and 3.0T on GE (450w and 750, 23.1), Siemens (Espree and Verio, VB17B), and Philips (Ingenia, 4.1.3) scanners using commercial spin-echo sequences with matched parameters (TE/TR: 20/500 ms, rBW: 62.5 kHz, TH/skip: 5/5mm). Two radiofrequency (RF) coil combinations were used for each scanner: bodymore » coil alone, and combined body and phased-array head coils. Vendorspecific B1- corrections (PURE/Pre-Scan Normalize/CLEAR) were applied in all head coil cases. Images were transferred offline, corrected for IINU using the MNI N3 algorithm, and normalized. Coefficients of variation (CV=σ/μ) and peak image uniformity (PIU = 1−(Smax−Smin)/(Smax+Smin)) estimates were calculated for one homogeneous phantom slice. Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon matched-pairs tests compared mean MR signal intensities and differences between original and N3 image CV and PIU. Results: Wide variations in both MR image intensity and IINU were observed across scanner vendors, field strengths, and RF coil configurations. Applying the MNI N3 correction for IINU resulted in significant improvements in both CV and PIU (p=0.0115, p=0.0235). However, wide variations in overall image intensity persisted, requiring image normalization to improve consistency across vendors, field strengths, and RF coils. These results indicate that B1- correction routines alone may be insufficient in compensating for IINU and image scaling, warranting additional corrections prior to use of MR images in radiotherapy. Conclusions: MR image intensities and IINU vary as a function of scanner vendor, field strength, and RF coil configuration. A two-step strategy consisting of MNI N3 correction followed by normalization was required to improve MR image consistency. Funding provided by Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin.« less

The effect of receiver coil orientations on the imaging performance of magnetic induction tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gürsoy, D.; Scharfetter, H.

2009-10-01

Magnetic induction tomography is an imaging modality which aims to reconstruct the conductivity distribution of the human body. It uses magnetic induction to excite the body and an array of sensor coils to detect the perturbations in the magnetic field. Up to now, much effort has been expended with the aim of finding an efficient coil configuration to extend the dynamic range of the measured signal. However, the merits of different sensor orientations on the imaging performance have not been studied in great detail so far. Therefore, the aim of the study is to fill the void of a systematic investigation of coil orientations on the reconstruction quality of the designs. To this end, a number of alternative receiver array designs with different coil orientations were suggested and the evaluations of the designs were performed based on the singular value decomposition. A generalized class of quality measures, the subclasses of which are linked to both the spatial resolution and uncertainty measures, was used to assess the performance on the radial and axial axes of a cylindrical phantom. The detectability of local conductivity perturbations in the phantom was explored using the reconstructed images. It is possible to draw the conclusion that the proper choice of the coil orientations significantly influences the number of usable singular vectors and accordingly the stability of image reconstruction, although the effect of increased stability on the quality of the reconstructed images was not of paramount importance due to the reduced independent information content of the associated singular vectors.

Spiral MRI on a 9.4T Vertical-bore Superconducting Magnet Using Unshielded and Self-shielded Gradient Coils

PubMed Central

Kodama, Nao; Setoi, Ayana; Kose, Katsumi

2018-01-01

Spiral MRI sequences were developed for a 9.4T vertical standard bore (54 mm) superconducting magnet using unshielded and self-shielded gradient coils. Clear spiral images with 64-shot scan were obtained with the self-shielded gradient coil, but severe shading artifacts were observed for the spiral-scan images acquired with the unshielded gradient coil. This shading artifact was successfully corrected with a phase-correction technique using reference scans that we developed based on eddy current field measurements. We therefore concluded that spiral imaging sequences can be installed even for unshielded gradient coils if phase corrections are performed using the reference scans. PMID:28367906

Spiral MRI on a 9.4T Vertical-bore Superconducting Magnet Using Unshielded and Self-shielded Gradient Coils.

PubMed

Kodama, Nao; Setoi, Ayana; Kose, Katsumi

2018-04-10

Spiral MRI sequences were developed for a 9.4T vertical standard bore (54 mm) superconducting magnet using unshielded and self-shielded gradient coils. Clear spiral images with 64-shot scan were obtained with the self-shielded gradient coil, but severe shading artifacts were observed for the spiral-scan images acquired with the unshielded gradient coil. This shading artifact was successfully corrected with a phase-correction technique using reference scans that we developed based on eddy current field measurements. We therefore concluded that spiral imaging sequences can be installed even for unshielded gradient coils if phase corrections are performed using the reference scans.

Design of 3x3 Focusing Array for Heavy Ion Driver Final Report on CRADA TC-02082-04

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Martovetsky, N.

This memo presents a design of a 3x3 quadrupole array for HIF. It contains 3 D magnetic field computations of the array build with racetrack coils with and without different shields. It is shown that it is possible to have a low error magnetic field in the cells and shield the stray fields to acceptable levels. The array design seems to be a practical solution to any size array for future multi-beam heavy ion fusion drivers.

Thermal noise variance of a receive radiofrequency coil as a respiratory motion sensor.

PubMed

Andreychenko, A; Raaijmakers, A J E; Sbrizzi, A; Crijns, S P M; Lagendijk, J J W; Luijten, P R; van den Berg, C A T

2017-01-01

Development of a passive respiratory motion sensor based on the noise variance of the receive coil array. Respiratory motion alters the body resistance. The noise variance of an RF coil depends on the body resistance and, thus, is also modulated by respiration. For the noise variance monitoring, the noise samples were acquired without and with MR signal excitation on clinical 1.5/3 T MR scanners. The performance of the noise sensor was compared with the respiratory bellow and with the diaphragm displacement visible on MR images. Several breathing patterns were tested. The noise variance demonstrated a periodic, temporal modulation that was synchronized with the respiratory bellow signal. The modulation depth of the noise variance resulting from the respiration varied between the channels of the array and depended on the channel's location with respect to the body. The noise sensor combined with MR acquisition was able to detect the respiratory motion for every k-space read-out line. Within clinical MR systems, the respiratory motion can be detected by the noise in receive array. The noise sensor does not require careful positioning unlike the bellow, any additional hardware, and/or MR acquisition. Magn Reson Med 77:221-228, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Sensitivity-encoded (SENSE) proton echo-planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI) in the human brain.

PubMed

Lin, Fa-Hsuan; Tsai, Shang-Yueh; Otazo, Ricardo; Caprihan, Arvind; Wald, Lawrence L; Belliveau, John W; Posse, Stefan

2007-02-01

Magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) provides spatially resolved metabolite information that is invaluable for both neuroscience studies and clinical applications. However, lengthy data acquisition times, which are a result of time-consuming phase encoding, represent a major challenge for MRSI. Fast MRSI pulse sequences that use echo-planar readout gradients, such as proton echo-planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI), are capable of fast spectral-spatial encoding and thus enable acceleration of image acquisition times. Combining PEPSI with recent advances in parallel MRI utilizing RF coil arrays can further accelerate MRSI data acquisition. Here we investigate the feasibility of ultrafast spectroscopic imaging at high field (3T and 4T) by combining PEPSI with sensitivity-encoded (SENSE) MRI using eight-channel head coil arrays. We show that the acquisition of single-average SENSE-PEPSI data at a short TE (15 ms) can be accelerated to 32 s or less, depending on the field strength, to obtain metabolic images of choline (Cho), creatine (Cre), N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), and J-coupled metabolites (e.g., glutamate (Glu) and inositol (Ino)) with acceptable spectral quality and localization. The experimentally measured reductions in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and Cramer-Rao lower bounds (CRLBs) of metabolite resonances were well explained by both the g-factor and reduced measurement times. Thus, this technology is a promising means of reducing the scan times of 3D acquisitions and time-resolved 2D measurements. Copyright (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Performance comparison of three types of high-speed counter-current chromatographs for the separation of components of hydrophilic and hydrophobic color additives.

PubMed

Weisz, Adrian; Ito, Yoichiro

2011-09-09

The performance of three types of high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) instruments was assessed for their use in separating components in hydrophilic and hydrophobic dye mixtures. The HSCCC instruments compared were: (i) a J-type coil planet centrifuge (CPC) system with a conventional multilayer-coil column, (ii) a J-type CPC system with a spiral-tube assembly-coil column, and (iii) a cross-axis CPC system with a multilayer-coil column. The hydrophilic dye mixture consisted of a sample of FD&C Blue No. 2 that contained mainly two isomeric components, 5,5'- and 5,7'-disulfonated indigo, in the ratio of ∼7:1. The hydrophobic dye mixture consisted of a sample of D&C Red No. 17 (mainly Sudan III) and Sudan II in the ratio of ∼4:1. The two-phase solvent systems used for these separations were 1-butanol/1.3M HCl and hexane/acetonitrile. Each of the three instruments was used in two experiments for the hydrophilic dye mixture and two for the hydrophobic dye mixture, for a total of 12 experiments. In one set of experiments, the lower phase was used as the mobile phase, and in the second set of experiments, the upper phase was used as the mobile phase. The results suggest that: (a) use of a J-type instrument with either a multilayer-coil column or a spiral-tube assembly column, applying the lower phase as the mobile phase, is preferable for separating the hydrophilic components of FD&C Blue No. 2; and (b) use of a J-type instrument with multilayer-coil column, while applying either the upper phase or the lower phase as the mobile phase, is preferable for separating the hydrophobic dye mixture of D&C Red No. 17 and Sudan II. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Performance of a 12-coil superconducting 'bumpy torus' magnet facility.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, J. R.; Holmes, A. D.; Keller, T. A.; Krawczonek, W. M.

1972-01-01

The NASA-Lewis 'bumpy torus' facility consists of 12 superconducting coils, each 19 cm ID and capable of 3.0 tesla on their axes. The coils are equally spaced around a toroidal array with a major diameter of 1.52 m, and are mounted with the major axis of the torus vertical in a single vacuum tank 2.6 m in diameter. Final shakedown tests of the facility mapped out its magnetic, cryogenic, vacuum, mechanical, and electrical performance. The facility is now ready for use as a plasma physics research facility. A maximum magnetic field on the magnetic axis of 3.23 teslas has been held for a period of more than sixty minutes without a coil normalcy.

Correction coil cable

DOEpatents

Wang, Sou-Tien

1994-11-01

A wire cable assembly (10, 310) adapted for the winding of electrical coils is taught. A primary intended use is for use in particle tube assemblies (532) for the superconducting super collider. The correction coil cables (10, 310) have wires (14, 314) collected in wire arrays (12, 312) with a center rib (16, 316) sandwiched therebetween to form a core assembly (18, 318 ). The core assembly (18, 318) is surrounded by an assembly housing (20, 320) having an inner spiral wrap (22, 322) and a counter wound outer spiral wrap (24, 324). An alternate embodiment (410) of the invention is rolled into a keystoned shape to improve radial alignment of the correction coil cable (410) on a particle tube (733) in a particle tube assembly (732).

Approach for removing ghost-images in remote field eddy current testing of ferromagnetic pipes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Q. W.; Shi, Y. B.; Wang, Z. G.; Zhang, W.; Zhang, Y.

2016-10-01

In the non-destructive testing of ferromagnetic pipes based on remote field eddy currents, an array of sensing coils is often used to detect local defects. While testing, the image that is obtained by sensing coils exhibits a ghost-image, which originates from both the transmitter and sensing coils passing over the same defects in pipes. Ghost-images are caused by transmitters and lead to undesirable assessments of defects. In order to remove ghost-images, two pickup coils are coaxially set to each other in remote field. Due to the time delay between differential signals tested by the two pickup coils, a Wiener deconvolution filter is used to identify the artificial peaks that lead to ghost-images. Because the sensing coils and two pickup coils all receive the same signal from one transmitter, they all contain the same artificial peaks. By subtracting the artificial peak values obtained by the two pickup coils from the imaging data, the ghost-image caused by the transmitter is eliminated. Finally, a relatively highly accurate image of local defects is obtained by these sensing coils. With proposed method, there is no need to subtract the average value of the sensing coils, and it is sensitive to ringed defects.

Approach for removing ghost-images in remote field eddy current testing of ferromagnetic pipes.

PubMed

Luo, Q W; Shi, Y B; Wang, Z G; Zhang, W; Zhang, Y

2016-10-01

In the non-destructive testing of ferromagnetic pipes based on remote field eddy currents, an array of sensing coils is often used to detect local defects. While testing, the image that is obtained by sensing coils exhibits a ghost-image, which originates from both the transmitter and sensing coils passing over the same defects in pipes. Ghost-images are caused by transmitters and lead to undesirable assessments of defects. In order to remove ghost-images, two pickup coils are coaxially set to each other in remote field. Due to the time delay between differential signals tested by the two pickup coils, a Wiener deconvolution filter is used to identify the artificial peaks that lead to ghost-images. Because the sensing coils and two pickup coils all receive the same signal from one transmitter, they all contain the same artificial peaks. By subtracting the artificial peak values obtained by the two pickup coils from the imaging data, the ghost-image caused by the transmitter is eliminated. Finally, a relatively highly accurate image of local defects is obtained by these sensing coils. With proposed method, there is no need to subtract the average value of the sensing coils, and it is sensitive to ringed defects.

A first attempt at few coils and low-coverage resistive wall mode stabilization of EXTRAP T2R

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olofsson, K. Erik J.; Brunsell, Per R.; Drake, James R.; Frassinetti, Lorenzo

2012-09-01

The reversed-field pinch features resistive-shell-type instabilities at any (vanishing and finite) plasma pressure. An attempt to stabilize the full spectrum of these modes using both (i) incomplete coverage and (ii) few coils is presented. Two empirically derived model-based control algorithms are compared with a baseline guaranteed suboptimal intelligent-shell-type (IS) feedback. Experimental stabilization could not be achieved for the coil array subset sizes considered by this first study. But the model-based controllers appear to significantly outperform the decentralized IS method.

A 32-Channel Combined RF and B0 Shim Array for 3T Brain Imaging

PubMed Central

Stockmann, Jason P.; Witzel, Thomas; Keil, Boris; Polimeni, Jonathan R.; Mareyam, Azma; LaPierre, Cristen; Setsompop, Kawin; Wald, Lawrence L.

2016-01-01

Purpose We add user-controllable direct currents (DC) to the individual elements of a 32-channel radio-frequency (RF) receive array to provide B0 shimming ability while preserving the array’s reception sensitivity and parallel imaging performance. Methods Shim performance using constrained DC current (±2.5A) is simulated for brain arrays ranging from 8 to 128 elements. A 32-channel 3-tesla brain array is realized using inductive chokes to bridge the tuning capacitors on each RF loop. The RF and B0 shimming performance is assessed in bench and imaging measurements. Results The addition of DC currents to the 32-channel RF array is achieved with minimal disruption of the RF performance and/or negative side effects such as conductor heating or mechanical torques. The shimming results agree well with simulations and show performance superior to third-order spherical harmonic (SH) shimming. Imaging tests show the ability to reduce the standard frontal lobe susceptibility-induced fields and improve echo planar imaging geometric distortion. The simulation of 64- and 128-channel brain arrays suggest that even further shimming improvement is possible (equivalent to up to 6th-order SH shim coils). Conclusion Including user-controlled shim currents on the loops of a conventional highly parallel brain array coil is feasible with modest current levels and produces improved B0 shimming performance over standard second-order SH shimming. PMID:25689977

Self-calibrated multiple-echo acquisition with radial trajectories using the conjugate gradient method (SMART-CG).

PubMed

Jung, Youngkyoo; Samsonov, Alexey A; Bydder, Mark; Block, Walter F

2011-04-01

To remove phase inconsistencies between multiple echoes, an algorithm using a radial acquisition to provide inherent phase and magnitude information for self correction was developed. The information also allows simultaneous support for parallel imaging for multiple coil acquisitions. Without a separate field map acquisition, a phase estimate from each echo in multiple echo train was generated. When using a multiple channel coil, magnitude and phase estimates from each echo provide in vivo coil sensitivities. An algorithm based on the conjugate gradient method uses these estimates to simultaneously remove phase inconsistencies between echoes, and in the case of multiple coil acquisition, simultaneously provides parallel imaging benefits. The algorithm is demonstrated on single channel, multiple channel, and undersampled data. Substantial image quality improvements were demonstrated. Signal dropouts were completely removed and undersampling artifacts were well suppressed. The suggested algorithm is able to remove phase cancellation and undersampling artifacts simultaneously and to improve image quality of multiecho radial imaging, the important technique for fast three-dimensional MRI data acquisition. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Self-calibrated Multiple-echo Acquisition with Radial Trajectories using the Conjugate Gradient Method (SMART-CG)

PubMed Central

Jung, Youngkyoo; Samsonov, Alexey A; Bydder, Mark; Block, Walter F.

2011-01-01

Purpose To remove phase inconsistencies between multiple echoes, an algorithm using a radial acquisition to provide inherent phase and magnitude information for self correction was developed. The information also allows simultaneous support for parallel imaging for multiple coil acquisitions. Materials and Methods Without a separate field map acquisition, a phase estimate from each echo in multiple echo train was generated. When using a multiple channel coil, magnitude and phase estimates from each echo provide in-vivo coil sensitivities. An algorithm based on the conjugate gradient method uses these estimates to simultaneously remove phase inconsistencies between echoes, and in the case of multiple coil acquisition, simultaneously provides parallel imaging benefits. The algorithm is demonstrated on single channel, multiple channel, and undersampled data. Results Substantial image quality improvements were demonstrated. Signal dropouts were completely removed and undersampling artifacts were well suppressed. Conclusion The suggested algorithm is able to remove phase cancellation and undersampling artifacts simultaneously and to improve image quality of multiecho radial imaging, the important technique for fast 3D MRI data acquisition. PMID:21448967

Directed surface attachment of nanomaterials via coiled-coil-driven self-assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, Simon J.; Johnson, Steven; Szymonik, Michal; Wardingley, Richard A.; Pye, Douglas; Davies, A. Giles; Wälti, Christoph; Stockley, Peter G.

2012-12-01

Numerous nanoscale devices and materials have been fabricated in recent years using a variety of biological scaffolds. However, the interfacing of these devices and materials into existing circuits and ordered arrays has proved problematic. Here, we describe a simple solution to this problem using self-assembly of the peptide coiled-coil heterodimer ACID:BASE to immobilize M13 bacteriophage particles to specific locations on a patterned gold surface. Surface plasmon resonance demonstrated that free ACID peptides will assemble onto a surface derivatized with BASE. We then displayed the ACID peptide on the pIX coat protein of M13 and showed that these phage particles permit formation of the coiled-coil resulting in specific surface attachment. The ACID:immobilized BASE affinities appear to be similar for free peptide and phage-displayed ACID. Finally, we fabricated two gold electrodes, separated by a 200 nm gap, coated one of them with BASE and showed that this allows localization of the M13:ACID onto the functionalized electrode.

Optimization of Coil Element Configurations for a Matrix Gradient Coil.

PubMed

Kroboth, Stefan; Layton, Kelvin J; Jia, Feng; Littin, Sebastian; Yu, Huijun; Hennig, Jurgen; Zaitsev, Maxim

2018-01-01

Recently, matrix gradient coils (also termed multi-coils or multi-coil arrays) were introduced for imaging and B 0 shimming with 24, 48, and even 84 coil elements. However, in imaging applications, providing one amplifier per coil element is not always feasible due to high cost and technical complexity. In this simulation study, we show that an 84-channel matrix gradient coil (head insert for brain imaging) is able to create a wide variety of field shapes even if the number of amplifiers is reduced. An optimization algorithm was implemented that obtains groups of coil elements, such that a desired target field can be created by driving each group with an amplifier. This limits the number of amplifiers to the number of coil element groups. Simulated annealing is used due to the NP-hard combinatorial nature of the given problem. A spherical harmonic basis set up to the full third order within a sphere of 20-cm diameter in the center of the coil was investigated as target fields. We show that the median normalized least squares error for all target fields is below approximately 5% for 12 or more amplifiers. At the same time, the dissipated power stays within reasonable limits. With a relatively small set of amplifiers, switches can be used to sequentially generate spherical harmonics up to third order. The costs associated with a matrix gradient coil can be lowered, which increases the practical utility of matrix gradient coils.

Screen-printed flexible MRI receive coils

PubMed Central

Corea, Joseph R.; Flynn, Anita M.; Lechêne, Balthazar; Scott, Greig; Reed, Galen D.; Shin, Peter J.; Lustig, Michael; Arias, Ana C.

2016-01-01

Magnetic resonance imaging is an inherently signal-to-noise-starved technique that limits the spatial resolution, diagnostic image quality and results in typically long acquisition times that are prone to motion artefacts. This limitation is exacerbated when receive coils have poor fit due to lack of flexibility or need for padding for patient comfort. Here, we report a new approach that uses printing for fabricating receive coils. Our approach enables highly flexible, extremely lightweight conforming devices. We show that these devices exhibit similar to higher signal-to-noise ratio than conventional ones, in clinical scenarios when coils could be displaced more than 18 mm away from the body. In addition, we provide detailed material properties and components performance analysis. Prototype arrays are incorporated within infant blankets for in vivo studies. This work presents the first fully functional, printed coils for 1.5- and 3-T clinical scanners. PMID:26961073

On-coil multiple channel transmit system based on class-D amplification and pre-amplification with current amplitude feedback

PubMed Central

Gudino, N.; Heilman, J.A; Riffe, M. J.; Heid, O.; Vester, M.; Griswold, M.A.

2016-01-01

A complete high-efficiency transmit amplifier unit designed to be implemented in on-coil transmit arrays is presented. High power capability, low power dissipation, scalability and cost minimization were some of the requirements imposed to the design. The system is composed of a current mode class-D (CMCD) amplifier output stage and a voltage mode class-D (VMCD) preamplification stage. The amplitude information of the radio frequency pulse was added through a customized step-down DC-DC converter with current amplitude feedback that connects to the CMCD stage. Benchtop measurements and imaging experiments were carried out to analyze system performance. Direct control of B1 was possible and its load sensitivity was reduced to less than 10% variation from unloaded to full loaded condition. When using the amplifiers in an array configuration, isolation above 20 dB was achieved between neighboring coils by the amplifier decoupling method. High output current operation of the transmitter was proved on the benchtop through output power measurements and in a 1.5 T scanner through flip angle quantification. Finally, single and multiple channel excitations with the new hardware were demonstrated by receiving signal with the body coil of the scanner. PMID:22890962

Comparison of different coil positions for ventilation monitoring with contact-less magnetic impedance measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cordes, A.; Pollig, D.; Leonhardt, S.

2010-04-01

For monitoring the health status of individuals, proper monitoring of ventilation is desirable. Therefore, a continuous measurement technique is an advantage for many patients since it allows personal home care scenarios. As an example, monitoring of elderly people at home could enable them to live in their familiar environment on their own with the safety of a continuous monitoring. Therefore, a measurement technique without the restriction of mobility is required. Since it is possible to monitor ventilation with magnetic impedance measurements without conductive contact, this technique is well suited for the mentioned scenario. Integrated in a chair, a person's health state could be monitored in many situations, e.g. during meals, while watching TV or reading a book. In this paper, we compare different positions of coil arrays for a magnetic impedance measurement system integrated in a chair in order to monitor ventilation continuously. For limiting the costs and technical complexity of the magnetic impedance measurement system, we have a focus on coil configurations with one RF channel. To limit the needed space and thickness of the array in the backrest, planar gradiometer coil setups are investigated. All measurements will be performed with a new developed portable magnetic impedance measurement system and a standard office chair.

On-coil multiple channel transmit system based on class-D amplification and pre-amplification with current amplitude feedback.

PubMed

Gudino, Natalia; Heilman, Jeremiah A; Riffe, Matthew J; Heid, Oliver; Vester, Markus; Griswold, Mark A

2013-07-01

A complete high-efficiency transmit amplifier unit designed to be implemented in on-coil transmit arrays is presented. High power capability, low power dissipation, scalability, and cost minimization were some of the requirements imposed to the design. The system is composed of a current mode class-D amplifier output stage and a voltage mode class-D preamplification stage. The amplitude information of the radio frequency pulse was added through a customized step-down DC-DC converter with current amplitude feedback that connects to the current mode class-D stage. Benchtop measurements and imaging experiments were carried out to analyze system performance. Direct control of B1 was possible and its load sensitivity was reduced to less than 10% variation from unloaded to full loaded condition. When using the amplifiers in an array configuration, isolation above 20 dB was achieved between neighboring coils by the amplifier decoupling method. High output current operation of the transmitter was proved on the benchtop through output power measurements and in a 1.5T scanner through flip angle quantification. Finally, single and multiple channel excitations with the new hardware were demonstrated by receiving signal with the body coil of the scanner. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optimization of 3D Field Design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Logan, Nikolas; Zhu, Caoxiang

2017-10-01

Recent progress in 3D tokamak modeling is now leveraged to create a conceptual design of new external 3D field coils for the DIII-D tokamak. Using the IPEC dominant mode as a target spectrum, the Finding Optimized Coils Using Space-curves (FOCUS) code optimizes the currents and 3D geometry of multiple coils to maximize the total set's resonant coupling. The optimized coils are individually distorted in space, creating toroidal ``arrays'' containing a variety of shapes that often wrap around a significant poloidal extent of the machine. The generalized perturbed equilibrium code (GPEC) is used to determine optimally efficient spectra for driving total, core, and edge neoclassical toroidal viscosity (NTV) torque and these too provide targets for the optimization of 3D coil designs. These conceptual designs represent a fundamentally new approach to 3D coil design for tokamaks targeting desired plasma physics phenomena. Optimized coil sets based on plasma response theory will be relevant to designs for future reactors or on any active machine. External coils, in particular, must be optimized for reliable and efficient fusion reactor designs. Work supported by the US Department of Energy under DE-AC02-09CH11466.

Passive radiofrequency shimming in the thighs at 3 Tesla using high permittivity materials and body coil receive uniformity correction.

PubMed

Brink, Wyger M; Versluis, Maarten J; Peeters, Johannes M; Börnert, Peter; Webb, Andrew G

2016-12-01

To explore the effects of high permittivity dielectric pads on the transmit and receive characteristics of a 3 Tesla body coil centered at the thighs, and their implications on image uniformity in receive array applications. Transmit and receive profiles of the body coil with and without dielectric pads were simulated and measured in healthy volunteers. Parallel imaging was performed using sensitivity encoding (SENSE) with and without pads. An intensity correction filter was constructed from the measured receive profile of the body coil. Measured and simulated data show that the dielectric pads improve the transmit homogeneity of the body coil in the thighs, but decrease its receive homogeneity, which propagates into reconstruction algorithms in which the body coil is used as a reference. However, by correcting for the body coil reception profile this effect can be mitigated. Combining high permittivity dielectric pads with an appropriate body coil receive sensitivity filter improves the image uniformity substantially compared with the situation without pads. Magn Reson Med 76:1951-1956, 2016. © 2015 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2015 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Integrated reformer and shift reactor

DOEpatents

Bentley, Jeffrey M.; Clawson, Lawrence G.; Mitchell, William L.; Dorson, Matthew H.

2006-06-27

A hydrocarbon fuel reformer for producing diatomic hydrogen gas is disclosed. The reformer includes a first reaction vessel, a shift reactor vessel annularly disposed about the first reaction vessel, including a first shift reactor zone, and a first helical tube disposed within the first shift reactor zone having an inlet end communicating with a water supply source. The water supply source is preferably adapted to supply liquid-phase water to the first helical tube at flow conditions sufficient to ensure discharge of liquid-phase and steam-phase water from an outlet end of the first helical tube. The reformer may further include a first catalyst bed disposed in the first shift reactor zone, having a low-temperature shift catalyst in contact with the first helical tube. The catalyst bed includes a plurality of coil sections disposed in coaxial relation to other coil sections and to the central longitudinal axis of the reformer, each coil section extending between the first and second ends, and each coil section being in direct fluid communication with at least one other coil section.

Inflection Points in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology-35 Years of Collaborative Research and Development.

PubMed

Wood, Michael L; Griswold, Mark A; Henkelman, Mark; Hennig, Jürgen

2015-09-01

The technology for clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has advanced with remarkable speed and in such a manner reflecting the influence of 3 forces-collaboration between disciplines, collaboration between academia and industry, and the enabling of software applications by hardware. The forces are evident in the key developments from the past and emerging trends for the future highlighted in this review article. These developments are associated with MRI system attributes, such as wider, shorter, and stronger magnets; specialty magnets and hybrid devices; k space; and the notion that magnetic field gradients perform a Fourier transform on the spatial distribution of magnetization, phased-array coils and parallel imaging, the user interface, the wide range of contrast possible, and applications that exploit motion-induced phase shifts. An attempt is made to show connections between these developments and how the 3 forces mentioned previously will continue to shape the technology used so productively in clinical MRI.

Understanding and manipulating the RF fields at high field MRI

PubMed Central

Ibrahim, Tamer S.; Hue, YiK-Kiong; Tang, Lin

2015-01-01

This paper presents a complete overview of the electromagnetics (radiofrequency aspect) of MRI at low and high fields. Using analytical formulations, numerical modeling (computational electromagnetics), and ultrahigh field imaging experiments, the physics that impacts the electromagnetic quantities associated with MRI, namely (1) the transmit field, (2) receive field, and (3) total electromagnetic power absorption, is analyzed. The physical interpretation of the above-mentioned quantities is investigated by electromagnetic theory, to understand ‘What happens, in terms of electromagnetics, when operating at different static field strengths?’ Using experimental studies and numerical simulations, this paper also examines the physical and technological feasibilities by which all or any of these specified electromagnetic quantities can be manipulated through techniques such as B1 shimming (phased array excitation) and signal combination using a receive array in order to advance MRI at high field strengths. Pertinent to this subject and with highly coupled coils operating at 7 T, this paper also presents the first phantom work on B1 shimming without B1 measurements. PMID:19621335

Application of phase consistency to improve time efficiency and image quality in dual echo black-blood carotid angiography.

PubMed

Kholmovski, Eugene G; Parker, Dennis L

2005-07-01

There is a considerable similarity between proton density-weighted (PDw) and T2-weighted (T2w) images acquired by dual echo fast spin-echo (FSE) sequences. The similarity manifests itself not only in image space as correspondence between intensities of PDw and T2w images, but also in phase space as consistency between phases of PDw and T2w images. Methods for improving the imaging efficiency and image quality of dual echo FSE sequences based on this feature have been developed. The total scan time of dual echo FSE acquisition may be reduced by as much as 25% by incorporating an estimate of the image phase from a fully sampled PDw image when reconstructing partially sampled T2w images. The quality of T2w images acquired using phased array coils may be significantly improved by using the developed noise reduction reconstruction scheme, which is based on the correspondence between the PDw and T2w image intensities and the consistency between the PDw and T2w image phases. Studies of phantom and human subject MRI data were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the techniques.

A direct modulated optical link for MRI RF receive coil interconnection.

PubMed

Yuan, Jing; Wei, Juan; Shen, G X

2007-11-01

Optical glass fiber is a promising alternative to traditional coaxial cables for MRI RF receive coil interconnection to avoid any crosstalk and electromagnetic interference between multiple channels. A direct modulated optical link is proposed for MRI coil interconnection in this paper. The link performances of power gain, frequency response and dynamic range are measured. Phantom and in vivo human head images have been demonstrated by the connection of this direct modulated optical link to a head coil on a 0.3T MRI scanner for the first time. Comparable image qualities to coaxial cable link verify the feasibility of using the optical link for imaging with minor modification on the existing scanners. This optical link could also be easily extended for multi-channel array interconnections at high field of 1.5 T.

MAGNETIC DENSITOMETER

DOEpatents

McCann, J.A.; Jones, R.H.

1961-08-15

A magnetic densitometer for locating defects and metallic inclusions in materials is described. The apparatus consists of two primary coils connected in series opposition and adapted te be placed in inductive relation to the material under test, a source of constant frequency alternating current coupled across the primary coil combination, a pick-up coil disposed in symmetrical inductive relationship with said primary coils, a phase-shifter coupled to the output of the energizing source. The output of the phase-shifter is coupled in series with the pick-up coil. An amplifier is provided selective to the third harmonic of the energizing source frequency. The series combination of the pick-up coil and the phase-shifter output are connected across the input of the amplifier, and an amplitude comparitor is coupled to the output of the amplifier and the energizing source for comparing the instantaneous amplitude of the amplifier output and the instantaneous output of the energizing source and producing an output proportional to the difference in amplitude. A recorder is coupled to the output of the amplitude comparison means to give an indication of the amplitude difference, thereby providing a permanent presentation of the character of the changes in characteristics exhibited by the material under test. (AEC)

Lorentz force electrical impedance tomography using magnetic field measurements.

PubMed

Zengin, Reyhan; Gençer, Nevzat Güneri

2016-08-21

In this study, magnetic field measurement technique is investigated to image the electrical conductivity properties of biological tissues using Lorentz forces. This technique is based on electrical current induction using ultrasound together with an applied static magnetic field. The magnetic field intensity generated due to induced currents is measured using two coil configurations, namely, a rectangular loop coil and a novel xy coil pair. A time-varying voltage is picked-up and recorded while the acoustic wave propagates along its path. The forward problem of this imaging modality is defined as calculation of the pick-up voltages due to a given acoustic excitation and known body properties. Firstly, the feasibility of the proposed technique is investigated analytically. The basic field equations governing the behaviour of time-varying electromagnetic fields are presented. Secondly, the general formulation of the partial differential equations for the scalar and magnetic vector potentials are derived. To investigate the feasibility of this technique, numerical studies are conducted using a finite element method based software. To sense the pick-up voltages a novel coil configuration (xy coil pairs) is proposed. Two-dimensional numerical geometry with a 16-element linear phased array (LPA) ultrasonic transducer (1 MHz) and a conductive body (breast fat) with five tumorous tissues is modeled. The static magnetic field is assumed to be 4 Tesla. To understand the performance of the imaging system, the sensitivity matrix is analyzed. The sensitivity matrix is obtained for two different locations of LPA transducer with eleven steering angles from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] at intervals of [Formula: see text]. The characteristics of the imaging system are shown with the singular value decomposition (SVD) of the sensitivity matrix. The images are reconstructed with the truncated SVD algorithm. The signal-to-noise ratio in measurements is assumed 80 dB. Simulation studies based on the sensitivity matrix analysis reveal that perturbations with [Formula: see text] mm size can be detected up to a 3.5 cm depth.

Lorentz force electrical impedance tomography using magnetic field measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zengin, Reyhan; Güneri Gençer, Nevzat

2016-08-01

In this study, magnetic field measurement technique is investigated to image the electrical conductivity properties of biological tissues using Lorentz forces. This technique is based on electrical current induction using ultrasound together with an applied static magnetic field. The magnetic field intensity generated due to induced currents is measured using two coil configurations, namely, a rectangular loop coil and a novel xy coil pair. A time-varying voltage is picked-up and recorded while the acoustic wave propagates along its path. The forward problem of this imaging modality is defined as calculation of the pick-up voltages due to a given acoustic excitation and known body properties. Firstly, the feasibility of the proposed technique is investigated analytically. The basic field equations governing the behaviour of time-varying electromagnetic fields are presented. Secondly, the general formulation of the partial differential equations for the scalar and magnetic vector potentials are derived. To investigate the feasibility of this technique, numerical studies are conducted using a finite element method based software. To sense the pick-up voltages a novel coil configuration (xy coil pairs) is proposed. Two-dimensional numerical geometry with a 16-element linear phased array (LPA) ultrasonic transducer (1 MHz) and a conductive body (breast fat) with five tumorous tissues is modeled. The static magnetic field is assumed to be 4 Tesla. To understand the performance of the imaging system, the sensitivity matrix is analyzed. The sensitivity matrix is obtained for two different locations of LPA transducer with eleven steering angles from -{{25}\\circ} to {{25}\\circ} at intervals of {{5}\\circ} . The characteristics of the imaging system are shown with the singular value decomposition (SVD) of the sensitivity matrix. The images are reconstructed with the truncated SVD algorithm. The signal-to-noise ratio in measurements is assumed 80 dB. Simulation studies based on the sensitivity matrix analysis reveal that perturbations with 5~\\text{mm}× 5 mm size can be detected up to a 3.5 cm depth.

Numerical study of the influence of geometrical characteristics of a vertical helical coil on a bubbly flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saffari, H.; Moosavi, R.

2014-11-01

In this article, turbulent single-phase and two-phase (air-water) bubbly fluid flows in a vertical helical coil are analyzed by using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The effects of the pipe diameter, coil diameter, coil pitch, Reynolds number, and void fraction on the pressure loss, friction coefficient, and flow characteristics are investigated. The Eulerian-Eulerian model is used in this work to simulate the two-phase fluid flow. Three-dimensional governing equations of continuity, momentum, and energy are solved by using the finite volume method. The k- ɛ turbulence model is used to calculate turbulence fluctuations. The SIMPLE algorithm is employed to solve the velocity and pressure fields. Due to the effect of a secondary force in helical pipes, the friction coefficient is found to be higher in helical pipes than in straight pipes. The friction coefficient increases with an increase in the curvature, pipe diameter, and coil pitch and decreases with an increase in the coil diameter and void fraction. The close correlation between the numerical results obtained in this study and the numerical and empirical results of other researchers confirm the accuracy of the applied method. For void fractions up to 0.1, the numerical results indicate that the friction coefficient increases with increasing the pipe diameter and keeping the coil pitch and diameter constant and decreases with increasing the coil diameter. Finally, with an increase in the Reynolds number, the friction coefficient decreases, while the void fraction increases.

Flexible, 31 channel breast coil for enhanced parallel imaging performance at 3T

PubMed Central

Hancu, Ileana; Fiveland, Eric; Park, Keith; Giaquinto, Randy O.; Rohling, Kenneth; Wiesinger, Florian

2015-01-01

Purpose To design, build and characterize the performance of a novel 3T, 31 channel breast coil. Methods A flexible breast coil, accommodating all breast sizes while preserving close to unity filling factors in all configurations, was designed and built. Its performance was compared to the performance of the current state-of-the-art, 16 channel breast coil (Sentinelle coil, Hologic, Bedford, MA, USA), in phantoms and in vivo. Results Better axilla coverage and lower inter-coil coupling (12% vs. 26%, as characterized by the average off-diagonal elements of the noise correlation matrix) was exhibited by our 31 channel coil compared to the 16 channel coil. Breast area SNR increases of 68% (phantom) and 28 ± 31% (in vivo) were demonstrated in the 3 volunteers studied when the 31 channel coil was used. For the 31 channel/16 channel arrays, respectively, two dimensional acceleration factors of L/R × S/I = 4.3 × 2.4 resulted in average g-factors of 1.10/1.68 (in vitro) and 1.28/2.75 (in vivo); acceleration factors of L/R × A/P = 3.0 × 2.8 resulted in average g-factors of 1.06/1.54 (in vitro) and 1.05/1.12 (in vivo). Conclusion A high performance breast coil was built; its capabilities were demonstrated in phantom and normal volunteer imaging experiments. PMID:25772214

Standardized UXO Technology Demonstration Site, Open Field Scoring Record No. 893

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-07-01

EM) AMOS metal detector is a linear multichannel sensor array consisting of a 2-meter-wide transmitter coil and 16 receiver coils, mounted on a...ferrous and nonferrous metals : Will detect ammunition components 20-mm caliber and over at depths of up to 0.4 meter and ammunition components 100...robust, all-terrain trailer (fig. 1). b. The AMOS detector unit consists of the following main components: (1) Lower sensor level (dimensions

Standardized UXO Technology Demonstration Site, Blind Grid Scoring Record No. 919

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-07-01

provided by demonstrator) a. The core component of the electromagnetic (EM) AMOS metal detector is a linear multichannel sensor array consisting of a...Attainable accuracy of depth (z) +0.3 m h. Detection performance for ferrous and nonferrous metals : Will detect ammunition components 20-mm caliber...2-meter-wide transmitter coil and 16 receiver coils, mounted on a robust, all-terrain trailer (fig. 1). b. The AMOS detector unit consists of the

Performance of a novel SQUID-based superconducting imaging-surface magnetoencephalography system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraus, R. H.; Volegov, P.; Maharajh, K.; Espy, M. A.; Matlashov, A. N.; Flynn, E. R.

2002-03-01

Performance for a recently completed whole-head magnetoencephalography system using a superconducting imaging surface (SIS) surrounding an array of 150 SQUID magnetometers is reported. The helmet-like SIS is hemispherical in shape with a brim. Conceptually, the SIS images nearby sources onto the SQUIDs while shielding sensors from distant “noise” sources. A finite element method (FEM) description using the as-built geometry was developed to describe the SIS effect on source fields by imposing B⊥( surface)=0 . Sensors consist of 8×8 mm 2 SQUID magnetometers with 0.84 nT/ Φ0 sensitivity and <3 fT/ Hz noise. A series of phantom experiments to verify system efficacy have been completed. Simple dry-wire phantoms were used to eliminate model dependence from our results. Phantom coils were distributed throughout the volume encompassed by the array with a variety of orientations. Each phantom coil was precisely machined and located to better than 25 μm and 10 mRad accuracy. Excellent agreement between model-calculated and measured magnetic field distributions of all phantom coil positions and orientations was found. Good agreement was found between modeled and measured shielding of the SQUIDs from sources external to the array showing significant frequency-independent shielding. Phantom localization precision was better than 0.5 mm at all locations with a mean of better than 0.3 mm.

Feedback stabilization of resistive wall modes in a reversed-field pinch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brunsell, P. R.; Yadikin, D.; Gregoratto, D.; Paccagnella, R.; Liu, Y. Q.; Cecconello, M.; Drake, J. R.; Manduchi, G.; Marchiori, G.

2005-09-01

An array of saddle coils having Nc=16 equally spaced positions along the toroidal direction has been installed for feedback control of resistive wall modes (RWMs) on the EXTRAP T2R reversed-field pinch [P. R. Brunsell, H. Bergsaker, M. Cecconello et al., Plasma Phys. Controlled Fusion 43, 1457 (2001)]. Using feedback, multiple nonresonant RWMs are simultaneously suppressed for three to four wall times. Feedback stabilization of RWMs results in a significant prolongation of the discharge duration. This is linked to a better sustainment of the plasma and tearing mode toroidal rotation with feedback. Due to the limited number of coils in the toroidal direction, pairs of modes with toroidal mode numbers n ,n' that fulfill the condition ∣n-n'∣=Nc are coupled by the feedback action from the discrete coil array. With only one unstable mode in a pair of coupled modes, the suppression of the unstable mode is successful. If two modes are unstable in a coupled pair, two possibilities exist: partial suppression of both modes or, alternatively, complete stabilization of one target mode while the other is left unstable.

GPU-accelerated FDTD modeling of radio-frequency field-tissue interactions in high-field MRI.

PubMed

Chi, Jieru; Liu, Feng; Weber, Ewald; Li, Yu; Crozier, Stuart

2011-06-01

The analysis of high-field RF field-tissue interactions requires high-performance finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) computing. Conventional CPU-based FDTD calculations offer limited computing performance in a PC environment. This study presents a graphics processing unit (GPU)-based parallel-computing framework, producing substantially boosted computing efficiency (with a two-order speedup factor) at a PC-level cost. Specific details of implementing the FDTD method on a GPU architecture have been presented and the new computational strategy has been successfully applied to the design of a novel 8-element transceive RF coil system at 9.4 T. Facilitated by the powerful GPU-FDTD computing, the new RF coil array offers optimized fields (averaging 25% improvement in sensitivity, and 20% reduction in loop coupling compared with conventional array structures of the same size) for small animal imaging with a robust RF configuration. The GPU-enabled acceleration paves the way for FDTD to be applied for both detailed forward modeling and inverse design of MRI coils, which were previously impractical.

Spiral Countercurrent Chromatography

PubMed Central

Ito, Yoichiro; Knight, Martha; Finn, Thomas M.

2013-01-01

For many years, high-speed countercurrent chromatography conducted in open tubing coils has been widely used for the separation of natural and synthetic compounds. In this method, the retention of the stationary phase is solely provided by the Archimedean screw effect by rotating the coiled column in the centrifugal force field. However, the system fails to retain enough of the stationary phase for polar solvent systems such as the aqueous–aqueous polymer phase systems. To address this problem, the geometry of the coiled channel was modified to a spiral configuration so that the system could utilize the radially acting centrifugal force. This successfully improved the retention of the stationary phase. Two different types of spiral columns were fabricated: the spiral disk assembly, made by stacking multiple plastic disks with single or four interwoven spiral channels connected in series, and the spiral tube assembly, made by inserting the tetrafluoroethylene tubing into a spiral frame (spiral tube support). The capabilities of these column assemblies were successfully demonstrated by separations of peptides and proteins with polar two-phase solvent systems whose stationary phases had not been well retained in the earlier multilayer coil separation column for high-speed countercurrent chromatography. PMID:23833207

Trap Design and Construction for High-Power Multinuclear Magnetic Resonance Experiments

PubMed Central

Rispoli, Joseph V.; Dimitrov, Ivan E.; Cheshkov, Sergey; Malloy, Craig; Wright, Steven M.; McDougall, Mary P.

2016-01-01

Performing multinuclear experiments requires one or more radiofrequency (RF) coils operating at both the proton and second-nucleus frequencies; however, inductive coupling between coils must be mitigated to retain proton sensitivity and coil tuning stability. The inclusion of trap circuits simplifies placement of multinuclear RF coils while maintaining inter-element isolation. Of the commonly investigated non-proton nuclei, perhaps the most technically demanding is carbon-13, particularly when applying a proton decoupling scheme to improve the resulting spectra. This work presents experimental data for trap circuits withstanding high-power broadband proton decoupling of carbon-13 at 7 T. The advantages and challenges of building trap circuits with various inductor and capacitor components are discussed. Multiple trap designs are evaluated on the bench and utilized on an RF coil at 7 T to detect broadband proton-decoupled carbon-13 spectra from a lipid phantom. A particular trap design, built from a coaxial stub inductor and high-voltage ceramic chip capacitors, is highlighted owing to both its performance and adaptability for planar array coil elements with diverse spatial orientations. PMID:28529464

7-T magnetic resonance imaging of the inner ear's anatomy by using dual four-element radiofrequency coil arrays and the VIBE sequence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Kyoung-Nam; Heo, Phil; Kim, Young-Bo; Han, Gyu-Cheol

2015-02-01

An ultra-high-field magnetic resonance (MR) scanner and a specially-optimized radiofrequency (RF) coil and sequence protocol are required to obtain high-resolution images of the inner ear that can noninvasively confirm pathologic diagnoses. In phantom studies, the MR signal distribution of the gradient echo MR images generated by using a customized RF coil was compared with that of a commercial volume coil. The MR signal intensity of the customized RF coil decreases rapidly from near the RF coil plane toward the exterior of the phantom. However, the signal sensitivity of this coil is superior on both sides of the phantom, corresponding to the petrous pyramid. In in-vivo 7-T MR imaging, a customized RF coil and a volumetric-interpolated breath-hold examination imaging sequence are employed for visualization of the inner ear's structure. The entire membranous portion of the cochlear and the three semicircular canals, including the ductus reunions, oval window, and round window with associated nervous tissue, were clearly depicted with sufficient spatial coverage for adequate inspection of the surrounding anatomy. Developments from a new perspective to inner ear imaging using the 7-T modality could lead to further improved image sensitivity and, thus, enable ultra-structural MR imaging.

CFD analysis of the two-phase bubbly flow characteristics in helically coiled rectangular and circular tube heat exchangers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussain, Alamin; Fsadni, Andrew M.

2016-03-01

Due to their ease of manufacture, high heat transfer efficiency and compact design, helically coiled heat exchangers are increasingly being adopted in a number of industries. The higher heat transfer efficiency over straight pipes is due to the secondary flow that develops as a result of the centrifugal force. In spite of the widespread use of helically coiled heat exchangers, and the presence of bubbly two-phase flow in a number of systems, very few studies have investigated the resultant flow characteristics. This paper will therefore present the results of CFD simulations for the two-phase bubbly flow in helically coiled heat exchangers as a function of the volumetric void fraction and the tube cross-section design. The CFD results are compared to the scarce flow visualisation experimental results available in the open literature.

Increasing the affinity of selective bZIP-binding peptides through surface residue redesign.

PubMed

Kaplan, Jenifer B; Reinke, Aaron W; Keating, Amy E

2014-07-01

The coiled-coil dimer is a prevalent protein interaction motif that is important for many cellular processes. The basic leucine-zipper (bZIP) transcription factors are one family of proteins for which coiled-coil mediated dimerization is essential for function, and misregulation of bZIPs can lead to disease states including cancer. This makes coiled coils attractive protein-protein interaction targets to disrupt using engineered molecules. Previous work designing peptides to compete with native coiled-coil interactions focused primarily on designing the core residues of the interface to achieve affinity and specificity. However, folding studies on the model bZIP GCN4 show that coiled-coil surface residues also contribute to binding affinity. Here we extend a prior study in which peptides were designed to bind tightly and specifically to representative members of each of 20 human bZIP families. These "anti-bZIP" peptides were designed with an emphasis on target-binding specificity, with contributions to design-target specificity and affinity engineered considering only the coiled-coil core residues. High-throughput testing using peptide arrays indicated many successes. We have now measured the binding affinities and specificities of anti-bZIPs that bind to FOS, XBP1, ATF6, and CREBZF in solution and tested whether redesigning the surface residues can increase design-target affinity. Incorporating residues that favor helix formation into the designs increased binding affinities in all cases, providing low-nanomolar binders of each target. However, changes in surface electrostatic interactions sometimes changed the binding specificity of the designed peptides. © 2014 The Protein Society.

Characteristics and performance of a superconducting bumpy-torus magnet facility for plasma research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, J. R.; Holmes, A. D.; Keller, T. A.; Krawczonek, W. M.

1973-01-01

The NASA Lewis bumpy-torus facility consists of 12 superconducting coils, each 19 cm i.d. and capable of 3.0 T on its axis. The coils are equally spaced around a toroidal array with a major diameter of 1.52 m; they are mounted with the major axis of the torus vertical in a single vacuum tank 2.6 m in diameter. Tests of the facility mapped out its magnetic, cryogenic, vacuum, mechanical, and electrical performance. The design value of the maximum magnetic field on the magnetic axis, 3.0 T, was reached and exceeded. A maximum magnetic field of 3.23 T was held for a period of 60 minutes. When the coils were charged to a maximum magnetic field of 3.35 T, the coil system went normal without apparent damage or degradation of performance.

Cancer of the Anal Canal: Diagnosis, Staging and Follow-Up with MRI.

PubMed

Durot, Carole; Dohan, Anthony; Boudiaf, Mourad; Servois, Vincent; Soyer, Philippe; Hoeffel, Christine

2017-01-01

Although a rare disease, anal cancer is increasingly being diagnosed in patients with risk factors, mainly anal infection with the human papilloma virus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with external phased-array coils is recommended as the imaging modality of choice to grade anal cancers and to evaluate the response assessment after chemoradiotherapy, with a high contrast and good anatomic resolution of the anal canal. MRI provides a performant evaluation of size, extent and signal characteristics of the anal tumor before and after treatment, as well as lymph node involvement and extension to the adjacent organs. MRI is also particularly helpful in the assessment of complications after treatment, and in the diagnosis for relapse of the diseases.

Development of Mini-pole Superconducting Undulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jan, J. C.; Hwang, C. S.; Lin, P. H.; Chang, C. H.; Lin, F. Y.

2007-01-01

A mini-pole superconducting undulator with a 15mm period length (SU15) was developed at the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center (NSRRC). The coil was wound by a superconducting (SC) NbTi wire with small dimensions and low Cu/SC ratio. The design field strength of SU15 with 158turns/pole was 1.4T at 215A, and the magnet gap was 5.6 mm. Extra trim coils and poles are mounted on the main iron pole. The trim coils directly compensate for the strength error of the peak field. The prototype racetrack iron pole was fabricated via electric discharge machining to produce a complete set of 40-poles. The coil was impregnated by epoxy and wrapped in Kapton to maintain insulation between coil and iron pole. A substitution beam duct was built and assembled with the magnet array and tested in the test Dewar. The conceptual design of bath liquid helium (LHe) cryostat has to tolerate more image current and radiation heating on the beam duct.

Laminar flow effects in the coil planet centrifuge

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herrmann, F. T.

1984-01-01

The coil planet centrifuge designed by Ito employs flow of a single liquid phase, through a rotating coiled tube in a centrifugal force field, to provide a separation of particles based on sedimentation rates. Mathematical solutions are derived for the linear differential equations governing particle behavior in the coil planet centrifuge device. These solutions are then applied as the basis of a model for optimizing particle separations.

Phase shifting interferometry based on a vibration sensor - feasibility study on elimination of the depth degeneracy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Seung Seok; Kim, Ju Ha; Choi, Eun Seo

2017-04-01

We proposed novel phase-shifting interferometry using a fiber-optic vibration sensor. The Doppler shift in the coiled fiber caused by vibrations can be used to detect the vibrations by using a fiber-optic interferometer. The principle can be applied to induce phase shifts. While applying vibrations to the coiled fiber at various vibration frequencies, we recorded the variations in the interference fringes. The interference fringe moved to longer wavelengths when a vibration frequency was increased from 38.00 to 38.40 kHz. Phase variations of 3.59 rad/kHz were obtained. The ability to accurately control the phase by using the vibrations in the coiled fiber was demonstrated by the elimination of the depth degeneracy using the complex signal generated by the phase-shifted interference fringes. Using vibrations to control phase shifting can be an acceptable alternative to conventional methods and can be applied to resolve the depth ambiguity in Fourier domain optical coherence tomography.

Rod/Coil Block Copolyimides for Ion-Conducting Membranes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meador, Mary Ann B.; Kinder, James D.

2003-01-01

Rod/coil block copolyimides that exhibit high levels of ionic conduction can be made into diverse products, including dimensionally stable solid electrolyte membranes that function well over wide temperature ranges in fuel cells and in lithium-ion electrochemical cells. These rod/coil block copolyimides were invented to overcome the limitations of polymers now used to make such membranes. They could also be useful in other electrochemical and perhaps some optical applications, as described below. The membranes of amorphous polyethylene oxide (PEO) now used in lithium-ion cells have acceptably large ionic conductivities only at temperatures above 60 C, precluding use in what would otherwise be many potential applications at lower temperatures. PEO is difficult to process, and, except at the highest molecular weights it is not very dimensionally stable. It would be desirable to operate fuel cells at temperatures above 80 C to take advantage of better kinetics of redox reactions and to reduce contamination of catalysts. Unfortunately, proton-conduction performance of a typical perfluorosulfonic polymer membrane now used as a solid electrolyte in a fuel cell decreases with increasing temperature above 80 C because of loss of water from within the membrane. The loss of water has been attributed to the hydrophobic nature of the polymer backbone. In addition, perfluorosulfonic polymers are expensive and are not sufficiently stable for long-term use. Rod/coil block copolyimides are so named because each molecule of such a polymer comprises short polyimide rod segments alternating with flexible polyether coil segments (see figure). The rods and coils can be linear, branched, or mixtures of linear and branched. A unique feature of these polymers is that the rods and coils are highly incompatible, giving rise to a phase separation with a high degree of ordering that creates nanoscale channels in which ions can travel freely. The conduction of ions can occur in the coil phase, the rod phase, or both phases.

Integrated PET/MR breast cancer imaging: Attenuation correction and implementation of a 16-channel RF coil

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oehmigen, Mark, E-mail: mark.oehmigen@uni-due.de

Purpose: This study aims to develop, implement, and evaluate a 16-channel radiofrequency (RF) coil for integrated positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance (PET/MR) imaging of breast cancer. The RF coil is designed for optimized MR imaging performance and PET transparency and attenuation correction (AC) is applied for accurate PET quantification. Methods: A 16-channel breast array RF coil was designed for integrated PET/MR hybrid imaging of breast cancer lesions. The RF coil features a lightweight rigid design and is positioned with a spacer at a defined position on the patient table of an integrated PET/MR system. Attenuation correction is performed by generating andmore » applying a dedicated 3D CT-based template attenuation map. Reposition accuracy of the RF coil on the system patient table while using the positioning frame was tested in repeated measurements using MR-visible markers. The MR, PET, and PET/MR imaging performances were systematically evaluated using modular breast phantoms. Attenuation correction of the RF coil was evaluated with difference measurements of the active breast phantoms filled with radiotracer in the PET detector with and without the RF coil in place, serving as a standard of reference measurement. The overall PET/MR imaging performance and PET quantification accuracy of the new 16-channel RF coil and its AC were then evaluated in first clinical examinations on ten patients with local breast cancer. Results: The RF breast array coil provides excellent signal-to-noise ratio and signal homogeneity across the volume of the breast phantoms in MR imaging and visualizes small structures in the phantoms down to 0.4 mm in plane. Difference measurements with PET revealed a global loss and thus attenuation of counts by 13% (mean value across the whole phantom volume) when the RF coil is placed in the PET detector. Local attenuation ranging from 0% in the middle of the phantoms up to 24% was detected in the peripheral regions of the phantoms at positions closer to attenuating hardware structures of the RF coil. The position accuracy of the RF coil on the patient table when using the positioning frame was determined well below 1 mm for all three spatial dimensions. This ensures perfect position match between the RF coil and its three-dimensional attenuation template during the PET data reconstruction process. When applying the CT-based AC of the RF coil, the global attenuation bias was mostly compensated to ±0.5% across the entire breast imaging volume. The patient study revealed high quality MR, PET, and combined PET/MR imaging of breast cancer. Quantitative activity measurements in all 11 breast cancer lesions of the ten patients resulted in increased mean difference values of SUV{sub max} 11.8% (minimum 3.2%; maximum 23.2%) between nonAC images and images when AC of the RF breast coil was applied. This supports the quantitative results of the phantom study as well as successful attenuation correction of the RF coil. Conclusions: A 16-channel breast RF coil was designed for optimized MR imaging performance and PET transparency and was successfully integrated with its dedicated attenuation correction template into a whole-body PET/MR system. Systematic PET/MR imaging evaluation with phantoms and an initial study on patients with breast cancer provided excellent MR and PET image quality and accurate PET quantification.« less

Electromechanical modelling and design for phase control of locked modes in the DIII-D tokamak

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Olofsson, K. E. J.; Choi, W.; Humphreys, D. A.

A basic nonlinear electromechanical model is developed for the interaction between a pre-existing near-saturated tearing-mode, a conducting wall, active coils internal to the wall, and active coils external to the wall. The tearing-mode is represented by a perturbed helical surface current and its island has a small but finite moment of inertia. The model is shown to have several properties that are qualitatively consistent with the experimental observations of mode-wall and mode-coil interactions. The main purpose of the model is to guide the design of a phase control system for locked modes (LMs) in tokamaks. Such a phase controller maymore » become an important component in integrated disruption avoidance systems. A realistic feedback controller for the LM phase is designed and tested for the electromechanical model. The results indicate that a simple fixed-gain controller can perform phase control of LMs with a range of sizes, and at arbitrary misalignment relative to a realistically dimensioned background error field. Finally, the basic model is expected to be a useful minimal dynamical system representation also for other aspects of mode-wall-coil interactions.« less

Electromechanical modelling and design for phase control of locked modes in the DIII-D tokamak

DOE PAGES

Olofsson, K. E. J.; Choi, W.; Humphreys, D. A.; ...

2016-02-05

A basic nonlinear electromechanical model is developed for the interaction between a pre-existing near-saturated tearing-mode, a conducting wall, active coils internal to the wall, and active coils external to the wall. The tearing-mode is represented by a perturbed helical surface current and its island has a small but finite moment of inertia. The model is shown to have several properties that are qualitatively consistent with the experimental observations of mode-wall and mode-coil interactions. The main purpose of the model is to guide the design of a phase control system for locked modes (LMs) in tokamaks. Such a phase controller maymore » become an important component in integrated disruption avoidance systems. A realistic feedback controller for the LM phase is designed and tested for the electromechanical model. The results indicate that a simple fixed-gain controller can perform phase control of LMs with a range of sizes, and at arbitrary misalignment relative to a realistically dimensioned background error field. Finally, the basic model is expected to be a useful minimal dynamical system representation also for other aspects of mode-wall-coil interactions.« less

Augmented reality for breast imaging.

PubMed

Rancati, Alberto; Angrigiani, Claudio; Nava, Maurizio B; Catanuto, Giuseppe; Rocco, Nicola; Ventrice, Fernando; Dorr, Julio

2018-06-01

Augmented reality (AR) enables the superimposition of virtual reality reconstructions onto clinical images of a real patient, in real time. This allows visualization of internal structures through overlying tissues, thereby providing a virtual transparency vision of surgical anatomy. AR has been applied to neurosurgery, which utilizes a relatively fixed space, frames, and bony references; the application of AR facilitates the relationship between virtual and real data. Augmented breast imaging (ABI) is described. Breast MRI studies for breast implant patients with seroma were performed using a Siemens 3T system with a body coil and a four-channel bilateral phased-array breast coil as the transmitter and receiver, respectively. Gadolinium was injected as a contrast agent (0.1 mmol/kg at 2 mL/s) using a programmable power injector. Dicom formatted images data from 10 MRI cases of breast implant seroma and 10 MRI cases with T1-2 N0 M0 breast cancer, were imported and transformed into augmented reality images. ABI demonstrated stereoscopic depth perception, focal point convergence, 3D cursor use, and joystick fly-through. ABI can improve clinical outcomes, providing an enhanced view of the structures to work on. It should be further studied to determine its utility in clinical practice.

The history of MR imaging as seen through the pages of radiology.

PubMed

Edelman, Robert R

2014-11-01

The first reports in Radiology pertaining to magnetic resonance (MR) imaging were published in 1980, 7 years after Paul Lauterbur pioneered the first MR images and 9 years after the first human computed tomographic images were obtained. Historical advances in the research and clinical applications of MR imaging very much parallel the remarkable advances in MR imaging technology. These advances can be roughly classified into hardware (eg, magnets, gradients, radiofrequency [RF] coils, RF transmitter and receiver, MR imaging-compatible biopsy devices) and imaging techniques (eg, pulse sequences, parallel imaging, and so forth). Image quality has been dramatically improved with the introduction of high-field-strength superconducting magnets, digital RF systems, and phased-array coils. Hybrid systems, such as MR/positron emission tomography (PET), combine the superb anatomic and functional imaging capabilities of MR imaging with the unsurpassed capability of PET to demonstrate tissue metabolism. Supported by the improvements in hardware, advances in pulse sequence design and image reconstruction techniques have spurred dramatic improvements in imaging speed and the capability for studying tissue function. In this historical review, the history of MR imaging technology and developing research and clinical applications, as seen through the pages of Radiology, will be considered.

Theoretical and Experimental Estimations of Volumetric Inductive Phase Shift in Breast Cancer Tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González, C. A.; Lozano, L. M.; Uscanga, M. C.; Silva, J. G.; Polo, S. M.

2013-04-01

Impedance measurements based on magnetic induction for breast cancer detection has been proposed in some studies. This study evaluates theoretical and experimentally the use of a non-invasive technique based on magnetic induction for detection of patho-physiological conditions in breast cancer tissue associated to its volumetric electrical conductivity changes through inductive phase shift measurements. An induction coils-breast 3D pixel model was designed and tested. The model involves two circular coils coaxially centered and a human breast volume centrally placed with respect to the coils. A time-harmonic numerical simulation study addressed the effects of frequency-dependent electrical properties of tumoral tissue on the volumetric inductive phase shift of the breast model measured with the circular coils as inductor and sensor elements. Experimentally; five female volunteer patients with infiltrating ductal carcinoma previously diagnosed by the radiology and oncology departments of the Specialty Clinic for Women of the Mexican Army were measured by an experimental inductive spectrometer and the use of an ergonomic inductor-sensor coil designed to estimate the volumetric inductive phase shift in human breast tissue. Theoretical and experimental inductive phase shift estimations were developed at four frequencies: 0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 MHz. The theoretical estimations were qualitatively in agreement with the experimental findings. Important increments in volumetric inductive phase shift measurements were evident at 0.01MHz in theoretical and experimental observations. The results suggest that the tested technique has the potential to detect pathological conditions in breast tissue associated to cancer by non-invasive monitoring. Further complementary studies are warranted to confirm the observations.

Subranging scheme for SQUID sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Penanen, Konstantin I. (Inventor)

2008-01-01

A readout scheme for measuring the output from a SQUID-based sensor-array using an improved subranging architecture that includes multiple resolution channels (such as a coarse resolution channel and a fine resolution channel). The scheme employs a flux sensing circuit with a sensing coil connected in series to multiple input coils, each input coil being coupled to a corresponding SQUID detection circuit having a high-resolution SQUID device with independent linearizing feedback. A two-resolution configuration (course and fine) is illustrated with a primary SQUID detection circuit for generating a fine readout, and a secondary SQUID detection circuit for generating a course readout, both having feedback current coupled to the respective SQUID devices via feedback/modulation coils. The primary and secondary SQUID detection circuits function and derive independent feedback. Thus, the SQUID devices may be monitored independently of each other (and read simultaneously) to dramatically increase slew rates and dynamic range.

Detection of magnetic moment in thin films with a home-made vibrating sample magnetometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jordán, D.; González-Chávez, D.; Laura, D.; León Hilario, L. M.; Monteblanco, E.; Gutarra, A.; Avilés-Félix, L.

2018-06-01

This paper explores the optimization of an array of pick-up coils in a home-made vibrating sample magnetometer for the detection of magnetic moment in thin films. Sensitivity function of a 4-coils Mallinson configuration was numerically studied for the determination of the physical dimensions that enhance the sensitivity of the magnetometer. By performing numerical simulations using the Biot-Savart law combined with the principle of reciprocity we were able to determine the maximum values of sensitivity and the influence of the separation of the coils on the sensitivity function. After the optimization of the pick-up coils, the vibrating sample magnetometer was able to detect the magnetic moment of a 100 nm-thickness Fe19 Ni81 magnetic thin film along and perpendicular to the in-plane anisotropy easy axis. The implemented vibrating sample magnetometer is able to detect changes in the magnetic moment of ∼ 2 × 10-4 emu.

Coupling and power transfer efficiency enhancement of modular and array of planar coils using in-plane ring-shaped inner ferrites for inductive heating applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kilic, V. T.; Unal, E.; Demir, H. V.

2017-07-01

We propose and demonstrate a highly effective method of enhancing coupling and power transfer efficiency in inductive heating systems composed of planar coils. The proposed method is based on locating ring-shaped ferrites in the inner side of the coils in the same plane. Measurement results of simple inductive heating systems constructed with either a single or a pair of conventional circular coils show that, with the in-plane inner ferrites, the total dissipated power of the system is increased by over 65%. Also, with three-dimensional full electromagnetic solutions, it is found that power transfer efficiency of the system is increased up to 92% with the inner ferrite placement. The proposed method is promising to be used for efficiency enhancement in inductive heating applications, especially in all-surface induction hobs.

Ultra high spatial and temporal resolution breast imaging at 7T.

PubMed

van de Bank, B L; Voogt, I J; Italiaander, M; Stehouwer, B L; Boer, V O; Luijten, P R; Klomp, D W J

2013-04-01

There is a need to obtain higher specificity in the detection of breast lesions using MRI. To address this need, Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced (DCE) MRI has been combined with other structural and functional MRI techniques. Unfortunately, owing to time constraints structural images at ultra-high spatial resolution can generally not be obtained during contrast uptake, whereas the relatively low spatial resolution of functional imaging (e.g. diffusion and perfusion) limits the detection of small lesions. To be able to increase spatial as well as temporal resolution simultaneously, the sensitivity of MR detection needs to increase as well as the ability to effectively accelerate the acquisition. The required gain in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) can be obtained at 7T, whereas acceleration can be obtained with high-density receiver coil arrays. In this case, morphological imaging can be merged with DCE-MRI, and other functional techniques can be obtained at higher spatial resolution, and with less distortion [e.g. Diffusion Weighted Imaging (DWI)]. To test the feasibility of this concept, we developed a unilateral breast coil for 7T. It comprises a volume optimized dual-channel transmit coil combined with a 30-channel receive array coil. The high density of small coil elements enabled efficient acceleration in any direction to acquire ultra high spatial resolution MRI of close to 0.6 mm isotropic detail within a temporal resolution of 69 s, high spatial resolution MRI of 1.5 mm isotropic within an ultra high temporal resolution of 6.7 s and low distortion DWI at 7T, all validated in phantoms, healthy volunteers and a patient with a lesion in the right breast classified as Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) IV. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Position control system for use with micromechanical actuators

DOEpatents

Guckel, Henry; Stiers, Eric W.

2000-01-01

A positioning system adapted for use with micromechanical actuators provides feedback control of the position of the movable element of the actuator utilizing a low Q sensing coil. The effective inductance of the sensing coil changes with position of the movable element to change the frequency of oscillation of a variable oscillator. The output of the variable oscillator is compared in a phase detector to a reference oscillator signal. The phase detector provides a pulsed output having a pulse duty cycle related to the phase or frequency difference between the oscillator signals. The output of the phase detector is provided to a drive coil which applies a magnetic force to the movable element which balances the force of a spring. The movable element can be displaced to a new position by changing the frequency of the reference oscillator.

Coil-current effect in Kibble balances: analysis, measurement, and optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, S.; Bielsa, F.; Stock, M.; Kiss, A.; Fang, H.

2018-02-01

The Kibble balance is expected to become an important instrument in the near future for realizing the unit of mass, the kilogram, in the revised international system of units (SI). The Kibble balance assumes an equality of two magnetic profiles measured in the weighing and velocity phases. A recent study conducted in the Kibble balance group at the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) showed that the coil current could significantly affect the magnetic profile, which should be carefully taken into account in the Kibble balance experiment. This paper gives a deeper understanding and investigation of the effect, and discusses the magnetic profile change due to the coil current, for both the classical two-mode and the one-mode Kibble balances. The coil current effect has been theoretically and experimentally investigated based on a typical magnet design with an air gap. One important conclusion found in the one-mode Kibble balance is that the magnetic profile change measured in the velocity phase is twice the change in the weighing phase. A compensation suggestion, to minimize the profile change due to the coil current in a BIPM-type magnet, is presented.

Electric and Magnetic Manipulation of Biological Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, H.; Hunt, T. P.; Liu, Y.; Ham, D.; Westervelt, R. M.

2005-06-01

New types of biological cell manipulation systems, a micropost matrix, a microelectromagnet matrix, and a microcoil array, were developed. The micropost matrix consists of post-shaped electrodes embedded in an insulating layer. With a separate ac voltage applied to each electrode, the micropost matrix generates dielectrophoretic force to trap and move individual biological cells. The microelectromagnet matrix consists of two arrays of straight wires aligned perpendicular to each other, that are covered with insulating layers. By independently controlling the current in each wire, the microelectromagnet matrix creates versatile magnetic fields to manipulate individual biological cells attached to magnetic beads. The microcoil array is a set of coils implemented in a foundry using a standard silicon fabrication technology. Current sources to the coils, and control circuits are integrated on a single chip, making the device self-contained. Versatile manipulation of biological cells was demonstrated using these devices by generating optimized electric or magnetic field patterns. A single yeast cell was trapped and positioned with microscopic resolution, and multiple yeast cells were trapped and independently moved along the separate paths for cell-sorting.

Analytical model of tilted driver–pickup coils for eddy current nondestructive evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Bing-Hua; Li, Chao; Fan, Meng-Bao; Ye, Bo; Tian, Gui-Yun

2018-03-01

A driver-pickup probe possesses better sensitivity and flexibility due to individual optimization of a coil. It is frequently observed in an eddy current (EC) array probe. In this work, a tilted non-coaxial driver-pickup probe above a multilayered conducting plate is analytically modeled with spatial transformation for eddy current nondestructive evaluation. Basically, the core of the formulation is to obtain the projection of magnetic vector potential (MVP) from the driver coil onto the vector along the tilted pickup coil, which is divided into two key steps. The first step is to make a projection of MVP along the pickup coil onto a horizontal plane, and the second one is to build the relationship between the projected MVP and the MVP along the driver coil. Afterwards, an analytical model for the case of a layered plate is established with the reflection and transmission theory of electromagnetic fields. The calculated values from the resulting model indicate good agreement with those from the finite element model (FEM) and experiments, which validates the developed analytical model. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 61701500, 51677187, and 51465024).

Some Aspects of an Air-Core Single-Coil Magnetic Suspension System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hamlet, Irvin L.; Kilgore, Robert A.

1966-01-01

This paper presents some of the technical aspects in the development at the Langley Research Center of an air-cove, dual-wound, single-coil, magnetic-suspension system with one-dimensional control. Overall electrical system design features and techniques are discussed in addition to the problems of control and stability. Special treatment is given to the operation of a dual-wound, high-current support coil which provides the bias fields and superimposed modulated field. Other designs features include a six-phase, solid-state power stage for modulation of the relatively large magnitude control current, and an associated six-phase trigger circuit.

Simplified Hybrid-Secondary Uncluttered Machine And Method

DOEpatents

Hsu, John S [Oak Ridge, TN

2005-05-10

An electric machine (40, 40') has a stator (43) and a rotor (46) and a primary air gap (48) has secondary coils (47c, 47d) separated from the rotor (46) by a secondary air gap (49) so as to induce a slip current in the secondary coils (47c, 47d). The rotor (46, 76) has magnetic brushes (A, B, C, D) or wires (80) which couple flux in through the rotor (46) to the secondary coils (47c, 47d) without inducing a current in the rotor (46) and without coupling a stator rotational energy component to the secondary coils (47c, 47d). The machine can be operated as a motor or a generator in multi-phase or single-phase embodiments. A method of providing a slip energy controller is also disclosed.

Optimized 31P MRS in the human brain at 7 T with a dedicated RF coil setup

PubMed Central

van de Bank, Bart L.; Orzada, Stephan; Smits, Frits; Lagemaat, Miriam W.; Rodgers, Christopher T.; Bitz, Andreas K.

2015-01-01

The design and construction of a dedicated RF coil setup for human brain imaging (1H) and spectroscopy (31P) at ultra‐high magnetic field strength (7 T) is presented. The setup is optimized for signal handling at the resonance frequencies for 1H (297.2 MHz) and 31P (120.3 MHz). It consists of an eight‐channel 1H transmit–receive head coil with multi‐transmit capabilities, and an insertable, actively detunable 31P birdcage (transmit–receive and transmit only), which can be combined with a seven‐channel receive‐only 31P array. The setup enables anatomical imaging and 31P studies without removal of the coil or the patient. By separating transmit and receive channels and by optimized addition of array signals with whitened singular value decomposition we can obtain a sevenfold increase in SNR of 31P signals in the occipital lobe of the human brain compared with the birdcage alone. These signals can be further enhanced by 30 ± 9% using the nuclear Overhauser effect by B 1‐shimmed low‐power irradiation of water protons. Together, these features enable acquisition of 31P MRSI at high spatial resolutions (3.0 cm3 voxel) in the occipital lobe of the human brain in clinically acceptable scan times (~15 min). © 2015 The Authors. NMR in Biomedicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. PMID:26492089

Modeling Intracochlear Magnetic Stimulation: A Finite-Element Analysis.

PubMed

Mukesh, S; Blake, D T; McKinnon, B J; Bhatti, P T

2017-08-01

This study models induced electric fields, and their gradient, produced by pulsatile current stimulation of submillimeter inductors for cochlear implantation. Using finite-element analysis, the lower chamber of the cochlea, scala tympani, is modeled as a cylindrical structure filled with perilymph bounded by tissue, bone, and cochlear neural elements. Single inductors as well as an array of inductors are modeled. The coil strength (~100 nH) and excitation parameters (peak current of 1-5 A, voltages of 16-20 V) are based on a formative feasibility study conducted by our group. In that study, intracochlear micromagnetic stimulation achieved auditory activation as measured through the auditory brainstem response in a feline model. With respect to the finite element simulations, axial symmetry of the inductor geometry is exploited to improve computation time. It is verified that the inductor coil orientation greatly affects the strength of the induced electric field and thereby the ability to affect the transmembrane potential of nearby neural elements. Furthermore, upon comparing an array of micro-inductors with a typical multi-site electrode array, magnetically excited arrays retain greater focus in terms of the gradient of induced electric fields. Once combined with further in vivo analysis, this modeling study may enable further exploration of the mechanism of magnetically induced, and focused neural stimulation.

The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Athletic Pubalgia and Core Muscle Injury.

PubMed

Coker, Dana J; Zoga, Adam C

2015-08-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become the standard of care imaging modality for a difficult, often misunderstood spectrum of musculoskeletal injury termed athletic pubalgia or core muscle injury. Armed with a dedicated noncontrast athletic pubalgia protocol and a late model phased array receiver coil, the musculoskeletal imager can play a great role in effective diagnosis and treatment planning for lesions, including osteitis pubis, midline pubic plate lesions, and rectus abdominis/adductor aponeurosis injury. Beyond these established patterns of MRI findings, there are many confounders and contributing pathologies about the pelvis in patients with activity related groin pain, including internal and periarticular derangements of the hip. The MRI is ideally suited to delineate the extent of expected injury and to identify the unexpected visceral and musculoskeletal lesions.

Sensor, method and system of monitoring transmission lines

DOEpatents

Syracuse, Steven J.; Clark, Roy; Halverson, Peter G.; Tesche, Frederick M.; Barlow, Charles V.

2012-10-02

An apparatus, method, and system for measuring the magnetic field produced by phase conductors in multi-phase power lines. The magnetic field measurements are used to determine the current load on the conductors. The magnetic fields are sensed by coils placed sufficiently proximate the lines to measure the voltage induced in the coils by the field without touching the lines. The x and y components of the magnetic fields are used to calculate the conductor sag, and then the sag data, along with the field strength data, can be used to calculate the current load on the line and the phase of the current. The sag calculations of this invention are independent of line voltage and line current measurements. The system applies a computerized fitter routine to measured and sampled voltages on the coils to accurately determine the values of parameters associated with the overhead phase conductors.

Division site selection in Escherichia coli involves dynamic redistribution of Min proteins within coiled structures that extend between the two cell poles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shih, Yu-Ling; Le, Trung; Rothfield, Lawrence

2003-06-01

The MinCDE proteins of Escherichia coli are required for proper placement of the division septum at midcell. The site selection process requires the rapid oscillatory redistribution of the proteins from pole to pole. We report that the three Min proteins are organized into extended membrane-associated coiled structures that wind around the cell between the two poles. The pole-to-pole oscillation of the proteins reflects oscillatory changes in their distribution within the coiled structure. We also report that the E. coli MreB protein, which is required for maintaining the rod shape of the cell, also forms extended coiled structures, which are similar to the MreB structures that have previously been reported in Bacillus subtilis. The MreB and MinCDE coiled arrays do not appear identical. The results suggest that at least two functionally distinct cytoskeletal-like elements are present in E. coli and that structures of this type can undergo dynamic changes that play important roles in division site placement and possibly other aspects of the life of the cell.

Tubulin polymerization promoting protein 1 (Tppp1) phosphorylation by Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase (rock) and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1) inhibits microtubule dynamics to increase cell proliferation.

PubMed

Schofield, Alice V; Gamell, Cristina; Suryadinata, Randy; Sarcevic, Boris; Bernard, Ora

2013-03-15

Tubulin polymerization promoting protein 1 (Tppp1) regulates microtubule (MT) dynamics via promoting MT polymerization and inhibiting histone deacetylase 6 (Hdac6) activity to increase MT acetylation. Our results reveal that as a consequence, Tppp1 inhibits cell proliferation by delaying the G1/S-phase and the mitosis to G1-phase transitions. We show that phosphorylation of Tppp1 by Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase (Rock) prevents its Hdac6 inhibitory activity to enable cells to enter S-phase. Whereas, our analysis of the role of Tppp1 during mitosis revealed that inhibition of its MT polymerizing and Hdac6 regulatory activities were necessary for cells to re-enter the G1-phase. During this investigation, we also discovered that Tppp1 is a novel Cyclin B/Cdk1 (cyclin-dependent kinase) substrate and that Cdk phosphorylation of Tppp1 inhibits its MT polymerizing activity. Overall, our results show that dual Rock and Cdk phosphorylation of Tppp1 inhibits its regulation of the cell cycle to increase cell proliferation.

Power dissipation in HTS coated conductor coils under the simultaneous action of AC and DC currents and fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Boyang; Li, Chao; Geng, Jianzhao; Zhang, Xiuchang; Gawith, James; Ma, Jun; Liu, Yingzhen; Grilli, Francesco; Coombs, T. A.

2018-07-01

This paper presents a comprehensive alternating current (AC) loss study of a circular high temperature superconductor (HTS) coated conductor coil. The AC losses from a circular double pancake coil were measured using the electrical method. A 2D axisymmetric H -formulation model using the FEM package in COMSOL Multiphysics has been established to match the circular geometry of the coil used in the experiment. Three scenarios have been analysed: Scenario 1 with AC transport current and DC magnetic field (experiment and simulation); Scenario 2 with DC transport current and AC magnetic field (simulation); and Scenario 3 with AC transport current and AC magnetic field (simulation and experimental data support). The angular dependence analysis on the coil under a magnetic field with different orientation angle θ has been carried out for all three scenarios. For Scenario 3, the effect of the relative phase difference Δφ between the AC current and the AC field on the total AC loss of the coil has been investigated. In summary, a current/field/angle/phase dependent AC loss ( I , B , θ, Δφ) study of a circular HTS coil has been carried out. The obtained results provide useful indications for the future design and research of HTS AC systems.

Integrated induction coil and fluxgate magnetometers for EM analysis and monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanstein, T.; Strack, K.; Jiang, J.

2013-12-01

The concept of a full field array electromagnetic system is an ideal tool to support hydrocarbon and geothermal E & P as well as various engineering monitoring applications. Some of the key questions are defining the reservoir, mapping of the fractures and reservoir depletion monitoring. The reservoirs are all too often relative thin and give an anomalous electromagnetic (EM) response, which is often small in amplitude and challenging for the EM measuring system. A digital fluxgate magnetometer (32-bit) is connected to the KMS magnetotelluric acquisition system with analogue induction coils and electrodes to extend the range of application of a single recording site. Since the noise level is above that of the induction coil for periods shorter than 20 s, the apparent resistivity is biased. For longer periods the apparent resistivity is consistent and eventually better than the induction coil. However, phase and tipper are not biased and agree well with the induction data even for shorter periods. This allows us to develop algorithms that significantly extend the range of application of the fluxgate beyond what was done in the past. The highest frequency of the fluxgate magnetometer is about 180 Hz and the hightest sampling of the FG-board is 4 kHz.The different induction coils and fluxgate magnetometer have intensively been tested in the magnetic chamber and at the field test site near Houston for noise performance by parallel recordings. They show that even in an environment with high cultural noise, the specification can be met. In Northeast China, a 30-day monitoring test with MT was carried out for seismologic applications. Acquisitition schedule included different recordings times and sampling rates. Daily, the data was collected and processed via the internet from either Europe or the US. Even with long recording, we still had to select the time windows for data averaging and coherences are not a good threshhold criteria in this case. During another MT sounding in India, an earthquake with magnitude 5 at a distance of about 200 km was recorded. The event is very strong in amplitude and visible in all magnetic and electric field components.

Multiplexing Readout of TES Microcalorimeters Based on Analog Baseband Feedback

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Takei, Y.; Yamasaki, N.Y; Mitsuda, K.

2009-12-16

A TES microcalorimeter array is a promising spectrometer with excellent energy resolution and a moderate imaging capability. To realize a large format array in space, multiplexing the TES signals at the low tempersture stage is mandatory. We are developing frequency division multiplexing (FDM) based on baseband feedback technique. In FDM, each TES is AC-biased with a different carrier frequency. Signals from several pixels are summed and then read out by one SQUID. The maximum number of multiplexed pixels are limited by the frequency band in which the SQUID can be operated in a flux-locked loop, which is {approx}1 MHz withmore » standard flux-locked loop circuit. In the baseband feedback, the signal ({approx}10 kHz band) from the TES is once demodulated. Then a reconstructed copy of the modulated signal with an appropriate phase is fed back to the SQUID input coil to maintain an approximately constant magnetic flux. This can be implemented even for large cable delays and automatically suppresses the carrier. We developed a prototype electronics for the baseband feedback based on an analog phase sensitive detector (PSD) and a multiplier. Combined with Seiko 80-SSA SQUID amp, open-loop gain of 8 has been obtained for 10 kHz baseband signal at 5 MHz carrier frequency, with a moderate noise contribution of 27pA/{radical}(Hz) at input.« less

Hybrid-secondary uncluttered permanent magnet machine and method

DOEpatents

Hsu, John S.

2005-12-20

An electric machine (40) has a stator (43), a permanent magnet rotor (38) with permanent magnets (39) and a magnetic coupling uncluttered rotor (46) for inducing a slip energy current in secondary coils (47). A dc flux can be produced in the uncluttered rotor when the secondary coils are fed with dc currents. The magnetic coupling uncluttered rotor (46) has magnetic brushes (A, B, C, D) which couple flux in through the rotor (46) to the secondary coils (47c, 47d) without inducing a current in the rotor (46) and without coupling a stator rotational energy component to the secondary coils (47c, 47d). The machine can be operated as a motor or a generator in multi-phase or single-phase embodiments and is applicable to the hybrid electric vehicle. A method of providing a slip energy controller is also disclosed.

Combining parallel detection of proton echo planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI) measurements with a data-consistency constraint improves SNR.

PubMed

Tsai, Shang-Yueh; Hsu, Yi-Cheng; Chu, Ying-Hua; Kuo, Wen-Jui; Lin, Fa-Hsuan

2015-12-01

One major challenge of MRSI is the poor signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which can be improved by using a surface coil array. Here we propose to exploit the spatial sensitivity of different channels of a coil array to enforce the k-space data consistency (DC) in order to suppress noise and consequently to improve MRSI SNR. MRSI data were collected using a proton echo planar spectroscopic imaging (PEPSI) sequence at 3 T using a 32-channel coil array and were averaged with one, two and eight measurements (avg-1, avg-2 and avg-8). The DC constraint was applied using a regularization parameter λ of 1, 2, 3, 5 or 10. Metabolite concentrations were quantified using LCModel. Our results show that the suppression of noise by applying the DC constraint to PEPSI reconstruction yields up to 32% and 27% SNR gain for avg-1 and avg-2 data with λ = 5, respectively. According to the reported Cramer-Rao lower bounds, the improvement in metabolic fitting was significant (p < 0.01) when the DC constraint was applied with λ ≥ 2. Using the DC constraint with λ = 3 or 5 can minimize both root-mean-square errors and spatial variation for all subjects using the avg-8 data set as reference values. Our results suggest that MRSI reconstructed with a DC constraint can save around 70% of scanning time to obtain images and spectra with similar SNRs using λ = 5. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

On growth and form of irregular coiled-shell of a terrestrial snail: Plectostoma concinnum (Fulton, 1901) (Mollusca: Caenogastropoda: Diplommatinidae).

PubMed

Liew, Thor-Seng; Kok, Annebelle C M; Schilthuizen, Menno; Urdy, Severine

2014-01-01

The molluscan shell can be viewed as a petrified representation of the organism's ontogeny and thus can be used as a record of changes in form during growth. However, little empirical data is available on the actual growth and form of shells, as these are hard to quantify and examine simultaneously. To address these issues, we studied the growth and form of a land snail that has an irregularly coiled and heavily ornamented shell-Plectostoma concinnum. The growth data were collected in a natural growth experiment and the actual form changes of the aperture during shell ontogeny were quantified. We used an ontogeny axis that allows data of growth and form to be analysed simultaneously. Then, we examined the association between the growth and the form during three different whorl growing phases, namely, the regular coiled spire phase, the transitional constriction phase, and the distortedly-coiled tuba phase. In addition, we also explored the association between growth rate and the switching between whorl growing mode and rib growing mode. As a result, we show how the changes in the aperture ontogeny profiles in terms of aperture shape, size and growth trajectory, and the changes in growth rates, are associated with the different shell forms at different parts of the shell ontogeny. These associations suggest plausible constraints that underlie the three different shell ontogeny phases and the two different growth modes. We found that the mechanism behind the irregularly coiled-shell is the rotational changes of the animal's body and mantle edge with respect to the previously secreted shell. Overall, we propose that future study should focus on the role of the mantle and the columellar muscular system in the determination of shell form.

On growth and form of irregular coiled-shell of a terrestrial snail: Plectostoma concinnum (Fulton, 1901) (Mollusca: Caenogastropoda: Diplommatinidae)

PubMed Central

Kok, Annebelle C.M.; Schilthuizen, Menno; Urdy, Severine

2014-01-01

The molluscan shell can be viewed as a petrified representation of the organism’s ontogeny and thus can be used as a record of changes in form during growth. However, little empirical data is available on the actual growth and form of shells, as these are hard to quantify and examine simultaneously. To address these issues, we studied the growth and form of a land snail that has an irregularly coiled and heavily ornamented shell–Plectostoma concinnum. The growth data were collected in a natural growth experiment and the actual form changes of the aperture during shell ontogeny were quantified. We used an ontogeny axis that allows data of growth and form to be analysed simultaneously. Then, we examined the association between the growth and the form during three different whorl growing phases, namely, the regular coiled spire phase, the transitional constriction phase, and the distortedly-coiled tuba phase. In addition, we also explored the association between growth rate and the switching between whorl growing mode and rib growing mode. As a result, we show how the changes in the aperture ontogeny profiles in terms of aperture shape, size and growth trajectory, and the changes in growth rates, are associated with the different shell forms at different parts of the shell ontogeny. These associations suggest plausible constraints that underlie the three different shell ontogeny phases and the two different growth modes. We found that the mechanism behind the irregularly coiled-shell is the rotational changes of the animal’s body and mantle edge with respect to the previously secreted shell. Overall, we propose that future study should focus on the role of the mantle and the columellar muscular system in the determination of shell form. PMID:24883245

Foundations of a laser-accelerated plasma diagnostics and beam stabilization with miniaturized Rogowski coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gruenwald, J.; Kocoń, D.; Khikhlukha, D.

2018-03-01

In order to introduce spatially resolved measurements of the plasma density in a plasma accelerated by a laser, a novel concept is proposed in this work. We suggest the usage of an array of miniaturized Rogowski coils to measure the current contributions parallel to the laser beam with a spatial resolution in the sub-mm range. The principle of the experimental setup will be shown in 3-D CAD models. The coils are coaxial to the plasma channel (e.g. a hydrogen filled capillary, which is frequently used in laser-plasma acceleration experiments). This plasma diagnostics method is simple, robust and it is a passive measurement technique, which does not disturb the plasma itself. As such coils rely on a Biot-Savart inductivity, they allow to separate the contributions of the parallel from perpendicular currents (with respect to the laser beam). Rogowski coils do not have a ferromagnetic core. Hence, non-linear effects resulting from such a core are to be neglected, which increases the reliability of the obtained data. They also allow the diagnosis of transient signals that carry high currents (up to several hundred kA) on very short timescales. Within this paper some predictions about the time resolution of such coils will be presented along with simple theoretical considerations.

Low-Radiation Cellular Inductive Powering of Rodent Wireless Brain Interfaces: Methodology and Design Guide.

PubMed

Soltani, Nima; Aliroteh, Miaad S; Salam, M Tariqus; Perez Velazquez, Jose Luis; Genov, Roman

2016-08-01

This paper presents a general methodology of inductive power delivery in wireless chronic rodent electrophysiology applications. The focus is on such systems design considerations under the following key constraints: maximum power delivery under the allowable specific absorption rate (SAR), low cost and spatial scalability. The methodology includes inductive coil design considerations within a low-frequency ferrite-core-free power transfer link which includes a scalable coil-array power transmitter floor and a single-coil implanted or worn power receiver. A specific design example is presented that includes the concept of low-SAR cellular single-transmitter-coil powering through dynamic tracking of a magnet-less receiver spatial location. The transmitter coil instantaneous supply current is monitored using a small number of low-cost electronic components. A drop in its value indicates the proximity of the receiver due to the reflected impedance of the latter. Only the transmitter coil nearest to the receiver is activated. Operating at the low frequency of 1.5 MHz, the inductive powering floor delivers a maximum of 15.9 W below the IEEE C95 SAR limit, which is over three times greater than that in other recently reported designs. The power transfer efficiency of 39% and 13% at the nominal and maximum distances of 8 cm and 11 cm, respectively, is maintained.

Rod-Coil Block Polyimide Copolymers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meador, Mary Ann B. (Inventor); Kinder, James D. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

This invention is a series of rod-coil block polyimide copolymers that are easy to fabricate into mechanically resilient films with acceptable ionic or protonic conductivity at a variety of temperatures. The copolymers consist of short-rigid polyimide rod segments alternating with polyether coil segments. The rods and coil segments can be linear, branched or mixtures of linear and branched segments. The highly incompatible rods and coil segments phase separate, providing nanoscale channels for ion conduction. The polyimide segments provide dimensional and mechanical stability and can be functionalized in a number of ways to provide specialized functions for a given application. These rod-coil black polyimide copolymers are particularly useful in the preparation of ion conductive membranes for use in the manufacture of fuel cells and lithium based polymer batteries.

Experimental study of the mutual influence of fibre Faraday elements in a spun-fibre interferometer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gubin, V P; Morshnev, S K; Przhiyalkovsky, Ya V

2015-08-31

An all-spun-fibre linear reflective interferometer with two linked Faraday fibre coils is studied. It is found experimentally that there is mutual influence of Faraday fibre coils in this interferometer. It manifests itself as an additional phase shift of the interferometer response, which depends on the circular birefringence induced by the Faraday effect in both coils. In addition, the interferometer contrast and magneto-optical sensitivity of one of the coils change. A probable physical mechanism of the discovered effect is the distributed coupling of orthogonal polarised waves in the fibre medium, which is caused by fibre bend in the coil. (interferometry)

Comparison of the peak resolution and the stationary phase retention between the satellite and the planetary motions using the coil satellite centrifuge with counter-current chromatographic separation of 4-methylumbelliferyl sugar derivatives.

PubMed

Shinomiya, Kazufusa; Zaima, Kazumasa; Harada, Yukina; Yasue, Miho; Harikai, Naoki; Tokura, Koji; Ito, Yoichiro

2017-01-20

Coil satellite centrifuge (CSC) produces the complex satellite motion consisting of the triplicate rotation of the coiled column around three axes including the sun axis (the angular velocity, ω 1 ), the planet axis (ω 2 ) and the satellite axis (the central axis of the column) (ω 3 ) according to the following formula: ω 1 =ω 2 +ω 3 . Improved peak resolution in the separation of 4-methylumbelliferyl sugar derivatives was achieved using the conventional multilayer coiled columns with ethyl acetate/1-butanol/water (3: 2: 5, v/v) for the lower mobile phase at the combination of the rotation speeds (ω 1 , ω 2 , ω 3 )=(300, 150, 150rpm), and (1:4:5, v/v) for the upper mobile phase at (300:100:200rpm). The effect of the satellite motion on the peak resolution and the stationary phase retention was evaluated by each CSC separation with the different rotation speeds of ω 2 and ω 3 under the constant revolution speed at ω 1 =300rpm. With the lower mobile phase, almost constant peak resolution and stationary phase retention were yielded regardless of the change of ω 2 and ω 3 , while with the upper mobile phase these two values were sensitively varied according to the different combination of ω 2 and ω 3 . For example, when ω 2 =147 or 200rpm is used, no stationary phase was retained in the coiled column while ω 2 =150rpm could retain enough volume of stationary phase for separation. On the other hand, the combined rotation speeds at (ω 1 , ω 2 , ω 3 )=(300, 300, 0rpm) or (300, 0, 300rpm) produced insufficient peak resolution regardless of the choice of the mobile phase apparently due to the lack of rotation speed except at (300, 0, 300rpm) with the upper mobile phase. At lower rotation speed of ω 1 =300rpm, better peak resolution and stationary phase retention were obtained by the satellite motion (ω 3 ) than by the planetary motion (ω 2 ), or ω 3 >ω 2 . The effect of the hydrophobicity of the two-phase solvent systems on the stationary phase retention was further examined using the n-hexane/ethyl acetate/1-butanol/methanol/water system at different volume ratios. In the satellite motion at (ω 1 , ω 2 , ω 3 )=(300, 150, 150rpm), almost constant stationary phase retention was obtained with the lower mobile phase regardless of the hydrophobicity of the solvent system whereas the stationary phase retention varied according to the volume ratio of the two-phase solvent system for the upper mobile phase. However, stable stationary phase retention was observed with either phase used as the mobile phase. In order to analyze the acceleration acting on the coiled column, an acceleration sensor was set on the column holder by displacing the multilayer column. The combination of the rotation speeds at (300, 100, 200rpm) showed double loops in the acceleration track, whereas (300, 150, 150rpm) showed a single loop, and all other combinations showed, complex tracks. The overall results indicate that the satellite motion is seriously affected by the combination of rotation speeds and the hydrophobicity of the two-phase solvent system when the upper phase was used as the mobile phase for separation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of the peak resolution and the stationary phase retention between the satellite and the planetary motions using the coil satellite centrifuge with counter-current chromatographic separation of 4-methylumbelliferyl sugar derivatives

PubMed Central

Shinomiya, Kazufusa; Zaima, Kazumasa; Harada, Yukina; Yasue, Miho; Harikai, Naoki; Tokura, Koji; Ito, Yoichiro

2016-01-01

Coil satellite centrifuge (CSC) produces the complex satellite motion consisting of the triplicate rotation of the coiled column around three axes including the sun axis (the angular velocity, ω1), the planet axis (ω2) and the satellite axis (the central axis of the column) (ω3) according to the following formula: ω1 = ω2 + ω3. Improved peak resolution in the separation of 4-methylumbelliferyl sugar derivatives was achieved using the conventional multilayer coiled columns with ethyl acetate/1-butanol/water (3 : 2 : 5, v/v) for the lower mobile phase at the combination of the rotation speeds (ω1, ω2, ω3) = (300, 150, 150 rpm), and (1 : 4 : 5, v/v) for the upper mobile phase at (300 : 100 : 200 rpm). The effect of the satellite motion on the peak resolution and the stationary phase retention was evaluated by each CSC separation with the different rotation speeds of ω2 and ω3 under the constant revolution speed at ω1 = 300 rpm. With the lower mobile phase, almost constant peak resolution and stationary phase retention were yielded regardless of the change of ω2 and ω3, while with the upper mobile phase these two values were sensitively varied according to the different combination of ω2 and ω3. For example, when ω2 = 147 or 200 rpm is used, no stationary phase was retained in the coiled column while ω2 = 150 rpm could retain enough volume of stationary phase for separation. On the other hand, the combined rotation speeds at (ω1, ω2, ω3) = (300, 300, 0 rpm) or (300, 0, 300 rpm) produced insufficient peak resolution regardless of the choice of the mobile phase apparently due to the lack of rotation speed except at (300, 0, 300 rpm) with the upper mobile phase. At lower rotation speed of ω1 = 300 rpm, better peak resolution and stationary phase retention were obtained by the satellite motion (ω3) than by the planetary motion (ω2), or ω3 > ω2. The effect of the hydrophobicity of the two-phase solvent systems on the stationary phase retention was further examined using the n-hexane/ethyl acetate/1-butanol/methanol/water system at different volume ratios. In the satellite motion at (ω1, ω2, ω3) = (300, 150, 150 rpm), almost constant stationary phase retention was obtained with the lower mobile phase regardless of the hydrophobicity of the solvent system whereas the stationary phase retention varied according to the volume ratio of the two-phase solvent system for the upper mobile phase. However, stable stationary phase retention was observed with either phase used as the mobile phase. In order to analyze the acceleration acting on the coiled column, an acceleration sensor was set on the column holder by displacing the multilayer column. The combination of the rotation speeds at (300, 100, 200 rpm) showed double loops in the acceleration track, whereas (300, 150, 150 rpm) showed a single loop, and all other combinations showed, complex tracks. The overall results indicate that the satellite motion is seriously affected by the combination of rotation speeds and the hydrophobicity of the two-phase solvent system when the upper phase was used as the mobile phase for separation. PMID:28040269

A Hermetic Wireless Subretinal Neurostimulator for Vision Prostheses

PubMed Central

Shire, Douglas B.; Chen, Jinghua; Doyle, Patrick; Gingerich, Marcus D.; Cogan, Stuart F.; Drohan, William A.; Behan, Sonny; Theogarajan, Luke; Wyatt, John L.; Rizzo, Joseph F.

2016-01-01

A miniaturized, hermetically encased, wirelessly operated retinal prosthesis has been developed for preclinical studies in the Yucatan minipig, and includes several design improvements over our previously reported device. The prosthesis attaches conformally to the outside of the eye and electrically drives a microfabricated thin-film polyimide array of sputtered iridium oxide film electrodes. This array is implanted into the subretinal space using a customized ab externo surgical technique. The implanted device includes a hermetic titanium case containing a 15-channel stimulator chip and discrete circuit components. Feedthroughs in the case connect the stimulator chip to secondary power and data receiving coils on the eye and to the electrode array under the retina. Long-term in vitro pulse testing of the electrodes projected a lifetime consistent with typical devices in industry. The final assembly was tested in vitro to verify wireless operation of the system in physiological saline using a custom RF transmitter and primary coils. Stimulation pulse strength, duration, and frequency were programmed wirelessly from a Peripheral Component Interconnect eXtensions for Instrumentation (PXI) computer. Operation of the retinal implant has been verified in two pigs for up to five and a half months by detecting stimulus artifacts generated by the implanted device. PMID:21859595

Method for providing slip energy control in permanent magnet electrical machines

DOEpatents

Hsu, John S.

2006-11-14

An electric machine (40) has a stator (43), a permanent magnet rotor (38) with permanent magnets (39) and a magnetic coupling uncluttered rotor (46) for inducing a slip energy current in secondary coils (47). A dc flux can be produced in the uncluttered rotor when the secondary coils are fed with dc currents. The magnetic coupling uncluttered rotor (46) has magnetic brushes (A, B, C, D) which couple flux in through the rotor (46) to the secondary coils (47c, 47d) without inducing a current in the rotor (46) and without coupling a stator rotational energy component to the secondary coils (47c, 47d). The machine can be operated as a motor or a generator in multi-phase or single-phase embodiments and is applicable to the hybrid electric vehicle. A method of providing a slip energy controller is also disclosed.

Basic coaxial mass driver reference design. [electromagnetic lunar launch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kolm, H. H.

1977-01-01

The reference design for a basic coaxial mass driver is developed to illustrate the principles and optimization procedures on the basis of numerical integration by programmable pocket calculators. The four inch caliber system uses a single-coil bucket and a single-phase propulsion track with discrete coils, separately energized by capacitors. An actual driver would use multiple-coil buckets and an oscillatory multi-phase drive system. Even the basic, table-top demonstration system should in principle be able to achieve accelerations in the 1,000 m/sq sec range. Current densities of the order of 25 ka/sq cm, continuously achievable only in superconductors, are carried by an ordinary aluminum bucket coil for a short period in order to demonstrate the calculated acceleration. Ultimately the system can be lengthened and provided with a magnetically levitated, superconducting bucket to study levitation dynamics under quasi-steady-state conditions, and to approach lunar escape velocity in an evacuated tube.

Characterization of a custom-built RF coil for a high-resolution phase-contrast magnetic resonance velocimeter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Byungkuen; Cho, Jee-Hyun; Song, Simon

2016-11-01

For the use of clinical purpose magnetic resonance velocimeter (MRV) is a versatile flow visualization technique in that it allows opaque flow, complex geometry, no use of tracer particles and facile fast non-invasive measurements of 3 dimensional and 3 component velocity vectors. However, the spatial resolution of a commercial MR machine is lower than optics-based techniques like PIV. On the other hand, the use of MRV for clinical purposes like cardiovascular flow visualization requires accurate measurements or estimations on wall shear stress (WSS) with a high spatial resolution. We developed a custom-built solenoid RF coil for phase-contrast (PC) MRV to improve its resolution. We compared signal-to-noise ratio, WSS estimations, partial volume effects near wall between the custom RF coil and a commercial coil. Also, a Hagen-Poiseuille flow was analyzed with the custom RF coil. This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) Grant funded by the Korea government (MSIP) (No. 2016R1A2B3009541).

Design of snowflake-diverted equilibria of CFETR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hang, LI; Xiang, GAO; Guoqiang, LI; Zhengping, LUO; Damao, YAO; Yong, GUO

2018-03-01

The Chinese Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR) represents the next generation of full superconducting fusion reactors in China. Recently, CFETR was redesigned with a larger size and will be operated in two phases. To reduce the heat flux on the target plate, a snowflake (SF) divertor configuration is proposed. In this paper we show that by adding two dedicated poloidal field (PF) coils, the SF configuration can be achieved in both phases. The equilibria were calculated by TEQ code for a range of self-inductances l i3. The coil currents were calculated at some fiducial points in the flattop phase. The results indicate that the PF coil system has the ability to maintain a long flattop phase in 7.5 and 10 MA inductive scenarios for the single null divertor (SND) and SF divertor configurations. The properties of the SF configuration were also analyzed. The connection length and flux expansion of the SF divertor were both increased significantly over the SND.

Partition Efficiency of High-Pitch Locular Multilayer Coil for Countercurrent Chromatographic Separation of Proteins Using Small-Scale Cross-Axis Coil Planet Centrifuge and Application to Purification of Various Collagenases with Aqueous-Aqueous Polymer Phase Systems

PubMed Central

Shinomiya, Kazufusa; Kobayashi, Hiroko; Inokuchi, Norio; Nakagomi, Kazuya; Ito, Yoichiro

2010-01-01

Partition efficiency of the high-pitch locular multilayer coil was evaluated in countercurrent chromatographic (CCC) separation of proteins with an aqueous-aqueous polymer phase system using the small-scale cross-axis coil planet centrifuge (X-axis CPC) fabricated in our laboratory. The separation column was specially made by high-pitch (ca 5 cm) winding of 1.0 mm I.D., 2.0 mm O.D. locular tubing compressed at 2 cm intervals with a total capacity of 29.5 mL. The protein separation was performed using a set of stable proteins including cytochrome C, myoglobin, and lysozyme with the 12.5% (w/w) polyethylene glycol (PEG) 1000 and 12.5% (w/w) dibasic potassium phosphate system (pH 9.2) under 1000 rpm of column revolution. This high-pitch locular tubing yielded substantially increased stationary phase retention than the normal locular tubing for both lower and upper mobile phases. In order to demonstrate the capability of the high-pitch locular tubing, the purification of collagenase from the crude commercial sample was carried out using an aqueous-aqueous polymer phase system. Using the 16.0% (w/w) PEG 1000 – 6.3% (w/w) dibasic potassium phosphate – 6.3% (w/w) monobasic potassium phosphate system (pH 6.6), collagenase I, II, V and X derived from Clostridium hystolyticum were separated from other proteins and colored small molecular weight compounds present in the crude commercial sample, while collagenase N-2 and S-1 from Streptomyces parvulus subsp. citrinus were eluted with impurities at the solvent front with the upper phase. The collagenase from C. hystolyticum retained its enzymatic activity in the purified fractions. The overall results demonstrated that the high-pitch locular multilayer coil is effectively used for the CCC purification of bioactive compounds without loss of their enzymatic activities. PMID:21869859

Analysis and Validation of Contactless Time-Gated Interrogation Technique for Quartz Resonator Sensors

PubMed Central

Baù, Marco; Ferrari, Marco; Ferrari, Vittorio

2017-01-01

A technique for contactless electromagnetic interrogation of AT-cut quartz piezoelectric resonator sensors is proposed based on a primary coil electromagnetically air-coupled to a secondary coil connected to the electrodes of the resonator. The interrogation technique periodically switches between interleaved excitation and detection phases. During the excitation phase, the resonator is set into vibration by a driving voltage applied to the primary coil, whereas in the detection phase, the excitation signal is turned off and the transient decaying response of the resonator is sensed without contact by measuring the voltage induced back across the primary coil. This approach ensures that the readout frequency of the sensor signal is to a first order approximation independent of the interrogation distance between the primary and secondary coils. A detailed theoretical analysis of the interrogation principle based on a lumped-element equivalent circuit is presented. The analysis has been experimentally validated on a 4.432 MHz AT-cut quartz crystal resonator, demonstrating the accurate readout of the series resonant frequency and quality factor over an interrogation distance of up to 2 cm. As an application, the technique has been applied to the measurement of liquid microdroplets deposited on a 4.8 MHz AT-cut quartz crystal. More generally, the proposed technique can be exploited for the measurement of any physical or chemical quantities affecting the resonant response of quartz resonator sensors. PMID:28574459

Analysis and Validation of Contactless Time-Gated Interrogation Technique for Quartz Resonator Sensors.

PubMed

Baù, Marco; Ferrari, Marco; Ferrari, Vittorio

2017-06-02

A technique for contactless electromagnetic interrogation of AT-cut quartz piezoelectric resonator sensors is proposed based on a primary coil electromagnetically air-coupled to a secondary coil connected to the electrodes of the resonator. The interrogation technique periodically switches between interleaved excitation and detection phases. During the excitation phase, the resonator is set into vibration by a driving voltage applied to the primary coil, whereas in the detection phase, the excitation signal is turned off and the transient decaying response of the resonator is sensed without contact by measuring the voltage induced back across the primary coil. This approach ensures that the readout frequency of the sensor signal is to a first order approximation independent of the interrogation distance between the primary and secondary coils. A detailed theoretical analysis of the interrogation principle based on a lumped-element equivalent circuit is presented. The analysis has been experimentally validated on a 4.432 MHz AT-cut quartz crystal resonator, demonstrating the accurate readout of the series resonant frequency and quality factor over an interrogation distance of up to 2 cm. As an application, the technique has been applied to the measurement of liquid microdroplets deposited on a 4.8 MHz AT-cut quartz crystal. More generally, the proposed technique can be exploited for the measurement of any physical or chemical quantities affecting the resonant response of quartz resonator sensors.

An 8/15-channel Tx/Rx head neck RF coil combination with region-specific B1 + shimming for whole-brain MRI focused on the cerebellum at 7T.

PubMed

Pfaffenrot, Viktor; Brunheim, Sascha; Rietsch, Stefan H G; Koopmans, Peter J; Ernst, Thomas M; Kraff, Oliver; Orzada, Stephan; Quick, Harald H

2018-02-09

To design and evaluate an 8/15-channel transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) head-neck RF coil combination with region-specific B1+ shimming for whole-brain MRI with focus on improved functional MRI of the cerebellum at 7 T. An 8-channel transceiver RF head coil was combined with a 7-channel receive-only array. The noise parameters and acceleration capabilities of this 8Tx/15Rx coil setup were compared with a commercially available 1Tx/32Rx RF head coil. Region-specific 8-channel B1+ shimming was applied when using the 8Tx/15Rx RF coil. To evaluate the capability for functional MRI of the cerebellum, temporal SNR and statistical nonparametric maps for finger-tapping experiments with 14 healthy subjects were derived by applying a variable slice thickness gradient-echo echo-planar functional MRI sequence. The 8Tx/15Rx setup had a lower maximum noise correlation between channels, but higher average correlations compared with the 1Tx/32Rx coil. Both RF coils exhibited identical g-factors in the cerebellum with R = 3 acceleration. The enlarged FOV of the 8Tx/15Rx coil in combination with region-specific B1+ shimming increased homogeneity of the transmission field and temporal SNR in caudal cerebellar regions. Temporal SNR losses in cranial parts were reduced, resulting in more highly significant voxels in the caudally activated areas and identical patterns in the cranial cerebellar parts during a finger-tapping task. Compared with the 1Tx/32Rx RF coil, the presented 8Tx/15Rx RF coil combination successfully improves functional MRI of the human cerebellum at 7 T while maintaining whole-brain coverage. A clear temporal SNR gain in caudal cerebellar regions is shown. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

A feasibility study for compressed sensing combined phase contrast MR angiography reconstruction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dong-Hoon; Hong, Cheol-Pyo; Lee, Man-Woo; Han, Bong-Soo

2012-02-01

Phase contrast magnetic resonance angiography (PC MRA) is a technique for flow velocity measurement and vessels visualization, simultaneously. The PC MRA takes long scan time because each flow encoding gradients which are composed bipolar gradient type need to reconstruct the angiography image. Moreover, it takes more image acquisition time when we use the PC MRA at the low-tesla MRI system. In this study, we studied and evaluation of feasibility for CS MRI reconstruction combined PC MRA which data acquired by low-tesla MRI system. We used non-linear reconstruction algorithm which named Bregman iteration for CS image reconstruction and validate the usefulness of CS combined PC MRA reconstruction technique. The results of CS reconstructed PC MRA images provide similar level of image quality between fully sampled reconstruction data and sparse sampled reconstruction using CS technique. Although our results used half of sampling ratio and do not used specification hardware device or performance which are improving the temporal resolution of MR image acquisition such as parallel imaging reconstruction using phased array coil or non-cartesian trajectory, we think that CS combined PC MRA technique will be helpful to increase the temporal resolution and at low-tesla MRI system.

Reduced vibration motor winding arrangement

DOEpatents

Slavik, C.J.; Rhudy, R.G.; Bushman, R.E.

1997-11-11

An individual phase winding arrangement having a sixty electrical degree phase belt width for use with a three phase motor armature includes a delta connected phase winding portion and a wye connected phase winding portion. Both the delta and wye connected phase winding portions have a thirty electrical degree phase belt width. The delta and wye connected phase winding portions are each formed from a preselected number of individual coils each formed, in turn, from an unequal number of electrical conductor turns in the approximate ratio of {radical}3. The individual coils of the delta and wye connected phase winding portions may either be connected in series or parallel. This arrangement provides an armature winding for a three phase motor which retains the benefits of the widely known and utilized thirty degree phase belt concept, including improved mmf waveform and fundamental distribution factor, with consequent reduced vibrations and improved efficiency. 4 figs.

Reduced vibration motor winding arrangement

DOEpatents

Slavik, Charles J.; Rhudy, Ralph G.; Bushman, Ralph E.

1997-01-01

An individual phase winding arrangement having a sixty electrical degree phase belt width for use with a three phase motor armature includes a delta connected phase winding portion and a wye connected phase winding portion. Both the delta and wye connected phase winding portions have a thirty electrical degree phase belt width. The delta and wye connected phase winding portions are each formed from a preselected number of individual coils each formed, in turn, from an unequal number of electrical conductor turns in the approximate ratio of .sqroot.3. The individual coils of the delta and wye connected phase winding portions may either be connected in series or parallel. This arrangement provides an armature winding for a three phase motor which retains the benefits of the widely known and utilized thirty degree phase belt concept, including improved mmf waveform and fundamental distribution factor, with consequent reduced vibrations and improved efficiency.

Integrated resonant micro-optical gyroscope and method of fabrication

DOEpatents

Vawter, G Allen [Albuquerque, NM; Zubrzycki, Walter J [Sandia Park, NM; Guo, Junpeng [Albuquerque, NM; Sullivan, Charles T [Albuquerque, NM

2006-09-12

An integrated optic gyroscope is disclosed which is based on a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) having a bidirectional laser source, a pair of optical waveguide phase modulators and a pair of waveguide photodetectors. The PIC can be connected to a passive ring resonator formed either as a coil of optical fiber or as a coiled optical waveguide. The lasing output from each end of the bidirectional laser source is phase modulated and directed around the passive ring resonator in two counterpropagating directions, with a portion of the lasing output then being detected to determine a rotation rate for the integrated optical gyroscope. The coiled optical waveguide can be formed on a silicon, glass or quartz substrate with a silicon nitride core and a silica cladding, while the PIC includes a plurality of III V compound semiconductor layers including one or more quantum well layers which are disordered in the phase modulators and to form passive optical waveguides.

Experimental and theoretical studies of active control of resistive wall mode growth in the EXTRAP T2R reversed-field pinch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drake, J. R.; Brunsell, P. R.; Yadikin, D.; Cecconello, M.; Malmberg, J. A.; Gregoratto, D.; Paccagnella, R.; Bolzonella, T.; Manduchi, G.; Marrelli, L.; Ortolani, S.; Spizzo, G.; Zanca, P.; Bondeson, A.; Liu, Y. Q.

2005-07-01

Active feedback control of resistive wall modes (RWMs) has been demonstrated in the EXTRAP T2R reversed-field pinch experiment. The control system includes a sensor consisting of an array of magnetic coils (measuring mode harmonics) and an actuator consisting of a saddle coil array (producing control harmonics). Closed-loop (feedback) experiments using a digital controller based on a real time Fourier transform of sensor data have been studied for cases where the feedback gain was constant and real for all harmonics (corresponding to an intelligent-shell) and cases where the feedback gain could be set for selected harmonics, with both real and complex values (targeted harmonics). The growth of the dominant RWMs can be reduced by feedback for both the intelligent-shell and targeted-harmonic control systems. Because the number of toroidal positions of the saddle coils in the array is half the number of the sensors, it is predicted and observed experimentally that the control harmonic spectrum has sidebands. Individual unstable harmonics can be controlled with real gains. However if there are two unstable mode harmonics coupled by the sideband effect, control is much less effective with real gains. According to the theory, complex gains give better results for (slowly) rotating RWMs, and experiments support this prediction. In addition, open loop experiments have been used to observe the effects of resonant field errors applied to unstable, marginally stable and robustly stable modes. The observed effects of field errors are consistent with the thin-wall model, where mode growth is proportional to the resonant field error amplitude and the wall penetration time for that mode harmonic.

Longitudinal stability of MRI for mapping brain change using tensor-based morphometry.

PubMed

Leow, Alex D; Klunder, Andrea D; Jack, Clifford R; Toga, Arthur W; Dale, Anders M; Bernstein, Matt A; Britson, Paula J; Gunter, Jeffrey L; Ward, Chadwick P; Whitwell, Jennifer L; Borowski, Bret J; Fleisher, Adam S; Fox, Nick C; Harvey, Danielle; Kornak, John; Schuff, Norbert; Studholme, Colin; Alexander, Gene E; Weiner, Michael W; Thompson, Paul M

2006-06-01

Measures of brain change can be computed from sequential MRI scans, providing valuable information on disease progression, e.g., for patient monitoring and drug trials. Tensor-based morphometry (TBM) creates maps of these brain changes, visualizing the 3D profile and rates of tissue growth or atrophy, but its sensitivity depends on the contrast and geometric stability of the images. As part of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), 17 normal elderly subjects were scanned twice (at a 2-week interval) with several 3D 1.5 T MRI pulse sequences: high and low flip angle SPGR/FLASH (from which Synthetic T1 images were generated), MP-RAGE, IR-SPGR (N = 10) and MEDIC (N = 7) scans. For each subject and scan type, a 3D deformation map aligned baseline and follow-up scans, computed with a nonlinear, inverse-consistent elastic registration algorithm. Voxelwise statistics, in ICBM stereotaxic space, visualized the profile of mean absolute change and its cross-subject variance; these maps were then compared using permutation testing. Image stability depended on: (1) the pulse sequence; (2) the transmit/receive coil type (birdcage versus phased array); (3) spatial distortion corrections (using MEDIC sequence information); (4) B1-field intensity inhomogeneity correction (using N3). SPGR/FLASH images acquired using a birdcage coil had least overall deviation. N3 correction reduced coil type and pulse sequence differences and improved scan reproducibility, except for Synthetic T1 images (which were intrinsically corrected for B1-inhomogeneity). No strong evidence favored B0 correction. Although SPGR/FLASH images showed least deviation here, pulse sequence selection for the ADNI project was based on multiple additional image analyses, to be reported elsewhere.

Longitudinal stability of MRI for mapping brain change using tensor-based morphometry

PubMed Central

Leow, Alex D.; Klunder, Andrea D.; Jack, Clifford R.; Toga, Arthur W.; Dale, Anders M.; Bernstein, Matt A.; Britson, Paula J.; Gunter, Jeffrey L.; Ward, Chadwick P.; Whitwell, Jennifer L.; Borowski, Bret J.; Fleisher, Adam S.; Fox, Nick C.; Harvey, Danielle; Kornak, John; Schuff, Norbert; Studholme, Colin; Alexander, Gene E.; Weiner, Michael W.; Thompson, Paul M.

2007-01-01

Measures of brain change can be computed from sequential MRI scans, providing valuable information on disease progression, e.g., for patient monitoring and drug trials. Tensor-based morphometry (TBM) creates maps of these brain changes, visualizing the 3D profile and rates of tissue growth or atrophy, but its sensitivity depends on the contrast and geometric stability of the images. A s part of the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), 17 normal elderly subjects were scanned twice (at a 2-week interval) with several 3D 1.5 T MRI pulse sequences: high and low flip angle SPGR/FLASH (from which Synthetic T1 images were generated), MP-RAGE, IR-SPGR (N = 10) and MEDIC (N = 7) scans. For each subject and scan type, a 3D deformation map aligned baseline and follow-up scans, computed with a nonlinear, inverse-consistent elastic registration algorithm. Voxelwise statistics, in ICBM stereotaxic space, visualized the profile of mean absolute change and its cross-subject variance; these maps were then compared using permutation testing. Image stability depended on: (1) the pulse sequence; (2) the transmit/receive coil type (birdcage versus phased array); (3) spatial distortion corrections (using MEDIC sequence information); (4) B1-field intensity inhomogeneity correction (using N3). SPGR/FLASH images acquired using a birdcage coil had least overall deviation. N3 correction reduced coil type and pulse sequence differences and improved scan reproducibility, except for Synthetic T1 images (which were intrinsically corrected for B1-inhomogeneity). No strong evidence favored B0 correction. Although SPGR/FLASH images showed least deviation here, pulse sequence selection for the ADNI project was based on multiple additional image analyses, to be reported elsewhere. PMID:16480900

A high-sensitivity magnetocardiography system with a divided gradiometer array inside a low boil-off Dewar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Y. H.; Yu, K. K.; Kim, J. M.; Kwon, H.; Kim, K.

2009-11-01

We fabricated a low-noise 64-channel first-order axial gradiometer system for measuring magnetocardiography (MCG) signals. The key technical features of the system are the compact structure of the gradiometer, division of the sensor array plate, direct mounting of the sensor plates into the Dewar bottom, reduced neck diameter of the liquid He Dewar, and compact readout electronics. To make the refill interval of liquid He longer, the distance between the compensation coil of the gradiometer and the input coil pads of the superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) was reduced to 20 mm. By using direct ultrasonic bonding of Nb wires between the pickup coil wires and input coil pads, the superconductive connection structure became simple. The baseline of the first-order gradiometer is 70 mm, a little longer than for typical conventional axial gradiometers, to provide a larger signal amplitude for deep sources. The 64-channel gradiometer array consists of four blocks, and each block is fixed separately onto the bottom of the Dewar. The neck diameter of the He Dewar (192 mm) is smaller than the bottom diameter (280 mm) in which the gradiometers are distributed. The average boil-off rate of the Dewar is 3 l per day when the 64-channel system is in operation every day. Double relaxation oscillation SQUIDs (DROSs) having large flux-to-voltage transfer coefficients were used to operate SQUIDs via compact electronics. The magnetically shielded room (MSR) has a wall thickness of 80 mm, and consists of two layers of permalloy and one layer of aluminum. When the 64-channel system was installed inside the MSR, the field noise level of the system was about 3.5 fTrms Hz-1/2 at 100 Hz. MCG measurements with high signal quality were done successfully using the developed system. In addition to the parameter analysis method, we developed software for the three-dimensional imaging of the myocardial current on a realistic image of the heart based on the anatomical image of the torso.

Thermodynamics of coil-hyperbranched poly(styrene-b-acrylated epoxidized soybean oil) block copolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Fang-Yi; Hohmann, Austin; Hernández, Nacú; Cochran, Eric

Here we present the phase behavior of a new type of coil-hyperbranched diblock copolymer: poly(styrene- b-acrylated epoxidized soybean oil), or PS-PAESO. PS-PAESO is an example of a biorenewable thermoplastic elastomer (bio-TPE). To date, we have shown that bio-TPEs can be economical commercial substitutes for their petrochemically derived analogues--such as poly(styrene- b-butadiene- b-styrene) (SBS)--in a range of applications including pressure sensitive adhesives and bitumen modification. From a polymer physics perspective, PS-PAESO is an interesting material in that it couples a linear coil-like block with a highly branched block. Thus in contrast to the past five decades of studies on linear AB diblock copolymers, coil-hyperbranched block copolymers are relatively unknown to the community and can be expected to deviate substantially from the standard ``universal'' phase behavior in the AB systems. To explore these new materials, we have constructed a library of PS-PAESO materials spanning a range of molecular weight and composition values. The phase transition behavior and the morphology information will be interpreted by isochronal temperature scanning in dynamic shear rheology, small angle X-ray scattering and the corresponding transmission electron microscopy.

Uniform rotating field network structure to efficiently package a magnetic bubble domain memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murray, Glen W. (Inventor); Chen, Thomas T. (Inventor); Wolfshagen, Ronald G. (Inventor); Ypma, John E. (Inventor)

1978-01-01

A unique and compact open coil rotating magnetic field network structure to efficiently package an array of bubble domain devices is disclosed. The field network has a configuration which effectively enables selected bubble domain devices from the array to be driven in a vertical magnetic field and in an independent and uniform horizontal rotating magnetic field. The field network is suitably adapted to minimize undesirable inductance effects, improve capabilities of heat dissipation, and facilitate repair or replacement of a bubble device.

Combined PET/MRI scanner

DOEpatents

Schlyer, David; Woody, Craig L.; Rooney, William; Vaska, Paul; Stoll, Sean; Pratte, Jean-Francois; O'Connor, Paul

2007-10-23

A combined PET/MRI scanner generally includes a magnet for producing a magnetic field suitable for magnetic resonance imaging, a radiofrequency (RF) coil disposed within the magnetic field produced by the magnet and a ring tomograph disposed within the magnetic field produced by the magnet. The ring tomograph includes a scintillator layer for outputting at least one photon in response to an annihilation event, a detection array coupled to the scintillator layer for detecting the at least one photon outputted by the scintillator layer and for outputting a detection signal in response to the detected photon and a front-end electronic array coupled to the detection array for receiving the detection signal, wherein the front-end array has a preamplifier and a shaper network for conditioning the detection signal.

Broadband hybrid electromagnetic and piezoelectric energy harvesting from ambient vibrations and pneumatic vortices induced by running subway trains.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-05-01

The airfoil-based electromagnetic energy harvester containing parallel array motion between moving coil and : trajectory matching multi-pole magnets was investigated. The magnets were aligned in an alternatively : magnetized formation of 6 magnets to...

Scanning Seismic Intrusion Detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, R. D.

1982-01-01

Scanning seismic intrusion detector employs array of automatically or manually scanned sensors to determine approximate location of intruder. Automatic-scanning feature enables one operator to tend system of many sensors. Typical sensors used with new system are moving-coil seismic pickups. Detector finds uses in industrial security systems.

Modeling and analysis of a magnetically levitated synchronous permanent magnet planar motor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kou, Baoquan; Zhang, Lu; Li, Liyi; Zhang, Hailin

2012-04-01

In this paper, a new magnetically levitated synchronous permanent magnet planar motor (MLSPMPM) driven by composite-current is proposed, of which the mover is made of a copper coil array and the stator are magnets and magnetic conductor. The coil pitch τt and permanent magnet pole pitch τp satisfy the following relationship 3nτt = (3n ± 1)τp. Firstly, an analytical model of the planar motor is established, flux density distribution of the two-dimensional magnet array is obtained by solving the equations of the scalar magnetic potential. Secondly, the expressions of the electromagnetic forces induced by magnetic field and composite current are derived. To verify the analytical model and the electromagnetic forces, finite element method (FEM) is used for calculating the flux density and electromagnetic forces of the MLSPMPM. And the results from FEM are in good agreement with the results from the analytical equations. This indicates that the analytical model is reasonable.

Self field triggered superconducting fault current limiter

DOEpatents

Tekletsadik, Kasegn D [Rexford, NY

2008-02-19

A superconducting fault current limiter array with a plurality of superconductor elements arranged in a meanding array having an even number of supconductors parallel to each other and arranged in a plane that is parallel to an odd number of the plurality of superconductors, where the odd number of supconductors are parallel to each other and arranged in a plane that is parallel to the even number of the plurality of superconductors, when viewed from a top view. The even number of superconductors are coupled at the upper end to the upper end of the odd number of superconductors. A plurality of lower shunt coils each coupled to the lower end of each of the even number of superconductors and a plurality of upper shunt coils each coupled to the upper end of each of the odd number of superconductors so as to generate a generally orthoganal uniform magnetic field during quenching using only the magenetic field generated by the superconductors.

Development of an omni-directional shear horizontal mode magnetostrictive patch transducer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zenghua; Hu, Yanan; Xie, Muwen; Fan, Junwei; He, Cunfu; Wu, Bin

2018-04-01

The fundamental shear horizontal wave, SH0 mode, has great potential in defect detection and on-line monitoring with large scale and high efficiency in plate-like structures because of its non-dispersive characteristics. Aiming at consistently exciting single SH0 mode in plate-like structures, an omni-directional shear horizontal mode magnetostrictive patch transducer (OSHM-MPT) is developed on the basis of magnetostrictive effect. It consists of four fan-shaped array elements and corresponding plane solenoid array (PSA) coils, four fan-shaped permanent magnets and a circular nickel patch. The experimental results verify that the developed transducer can effectively produce the single SH0 mode in an aluminum plate. The frequency response characteristics of this developed transducer are tested. The results demonstrate that the proposed OSHM-MPT has a center frequency of 300kHz related to the distance between adjacent arc-shaped steps of the PSA coils. Furthermore, omni-directivity of this developed transducer is tested. The results demonstrate that the developed transducer has a high omnidirectional consistency.

A 7T Spine Array Based on Electric Dipole Transmitters

PubMed Central

Duan, Qi; Nair, Govind; Gudino, Natalia; de Zwart, Jacco A.; van Gelderen, Peter; Murphy-Boesch, Joe; Reich, Daniel S.; Duyn, Jeff H.; Merkle, Hellmut

2015-01-01

Purpose In this work the feasibility of using an array of electric dipole antennas for RF transmission in spine MRI at high field is explored. Method A 2-channel transmit array based on an electric dipole design was quantitatively optimized for 7T spine imaging and integrated with a receive array combining 8 loop coils. Using B1+ mapping, the transmit efficiency of the dipole array was compared to a design using quadrature loop pairs. The radio-frequency (RF) energy deposition for each array was measured using a home-built dielectric phantom and MR thermometry. The performance of the proposed array was qualitatively demonstrated in human studies. Results The results indicate dramatically improved transmit efficiency for the dipole design as compared to the loop excitation. Up to 76% gain was achieved within the spinal region. Conclusion For imaging of the spine, electric-dipole based transmitters provided an attractive alternative to the traditional loop-based design. Easy integration with existing receive array technology facilitates practical use at high field. PMID:26190585

High Radiation Environment Nuclear Fragment Separator Magnet

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kahn, Stephen; Gupta, Ramesh

2016-01-31

Superconducting coils wound with HTS conductor can be used in magnets located in a high radiation environment. NbTi and Nb 3Sn superconductors must operate at 4.5 K or below where removal of heat is less efficient. The HTS conductor can carry significant current at higher temperatures where the Carnot efficiency is significantly more favorable and where the coolant heat capacity is much larger. Using the HTS conductor the magnet can be operated at 40 K. This project examines the use of HTS conductor for the Michigan State University Facility For Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) fragment separator dipole magnet which bendsmore » the beam by 30° and is located in a high radiation region that will not be easily accessible. Two of these magnets are needed to select the chosen isotope. There are a number of technical challenges to be addressed in the design of this magnet. The separator dipole is 2 m long and subtends a large angle. The magnet should keep a constant transverse field profile along its beam reference path. Winding coils with a curved inner segment is difficult as the conductor will tend to unwind during the process. In the Phase I project two approaches to winding the conductor were examined. The first was to wind the coils with curved sections on the inner and outer segments with the inner segment wound with negative curvature. The alternate approach was to use a straight segment on the inner segment to avoid negative curvature. In Phase I coils with a limited number of turns were successfully wound and tested at 77 K for both coil configurations. The Phase II program concentrated on the design, coil winding procedures, structural analysis, prototyping and testing of an HTS curved dipole coil at 40 K with a heat load representative of the radiation environment. One of the key criteria of the design of this magnet is to avoid the use of organic materials that would degrade rapidly in radiation. The Lorentz forces expected from the coils interacting with the magnetic field are large and in order minimize the deformation of the coils, mechanical support must be provided. Since the support structure cannot be made of organic materials with minimal thermal conductivity, an optimization was explored comparing the amount of coil deformation that can be tolerated and the amount of heat leakage that can be endured. A test coil containing 500 m of HTS was constructed to be tested at the 40 K operating temperature. The anticipated heat load was simulated with heater strips to demonstrate that the heat could be removed and that the coil can operate in a stable state. The FRIB project has decided that using HTS coils for this magnet was too risky considering their time and funding constraints and has opted for a more conservative approach with conventional coils. As an outcome of this STTR project, it is likely that HTS coils operating at higher temperatures will have beneficial applications for future accelerator projects.« less

From Vision to Reality: 50 Years of Phased Array Development

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-30

This paper cites the most prominent U.S.-deployed phased array radars as viewed by one phased-array radar advocate. Key words: radar, antenna array...phased array, phased array radar, radar antennas , array I. INTRODUCTION I welcome the opportunity to talk with today’s phased array engineers and...their test site in Fullerton, CA in the mid-1960s and was impressed by the size of the antennas . Eight apertures were deployed on each ship to

Evaluation of CFD Methods for Simulation of Two-Phase Boiling Flow Phenomena in a Helical Coil Steam Generator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pointer, William David; Shaver, Dillon; Liu, Yang

The U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Nuclear Energy charges participants in the Nuclear Energy Advanced Modeling and Simulation (NEAMS) program with the development of advanced modeling and simulation capabilities that can be used to address design, performance and safety challenges in the development and deployment of advanced reactor technology. The NEAMS has established a high impact problem (HIP) team to demonstrate the applicability of these tools to identification and mitigation of sources of steam generator flow induced vibration (SGFIV). The SGFIV HIP team is working to evaluate vibration sources in an advanced helical coil steam generator using computational fluidmore » dynamics (CFD) simulations of the turbulent primary coolant flow over the outside of the tubes and CFD simulations of the turbulent multiphase boiling secondary coolant flow inside the tubes integrated with high resolution finite element method assessments of the tubes and their associated structural supports. This report summarizes the demonstration of a methodology for the multiphase boiling flow analysis inside the helical coil steam generator tube. A helical coil steam generator configuration has been defined based on the experiments completed by Polytecnico di Milano in the SIET helical coil steam generator tube facility. Simulations of the defined problem have been completed using the Eulerian-Eulerian multi-fluid modeling capabilities of the commercial CFD code STAR-CCM+. Simulations suggest that the two phases will quickly stratify in the slightly inclined pipe of the helical coil steam generator. These results have been successfully benchmarked against both empirical correlations for pressure drop and simulations using an alternate CFD methodology, the dispersed phase mixture modeling capabilities of the open source CFD code Nek5000.« less

Identification and application of self-binding zipper-like sequences in SARS-CoV spike protein.

PubMed

Zhang, Si Min; Liao, Ying; Neo, Tuan Ling; Lu, Yanning; Liu, Ding Xiang; Vahlne, Anders; Tam, James P

2018-05-22

Self-binding peptides containing zipper-like sequences, such as the Leu/Ile zipper sequence within the coiled coil regions of proteins and the cross-β spine steric zippers within the amyloid-like fibrils, could bind to the protein-of-origin through homophilic sequence-specific zipper motifs. These self-binding sequences represent opportunities for the development of biochemical tools and/or therapeutics. Here, we report on the identification of a putative self-binding β-zipper-forming peptide within the severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus spike (S) protein and its application in viral detection. Peptide array scanning of overlapping peptides covering the entire length of S protein identified 34 putative self-binding peptides of six clusters, five of which contained octapeptide core consensus sequences. The Cluster I consensus octapeptide sequence GINITNFR was predicted by the Eisenberg's 3D profile method to have high amyloid-like fibrillation potential through steric β-zipper formation. Peptide C6 containing the Cluster I consensus sequence was shown to oligomerize and form amyloid-like fibrils. Taking advantage of this, C6 was further applied to detect the S protein expression in vitro by fluorescence staining. Meanwhile, the coiled-coil-forming Leu/Ile heptad repeat sequences within the S protein were under-represented during peptide array scanning, in agreement with that long peptide lengths were required to attain high helix-mediated interaction avidity. The data suggest that short β-zipper-like self-binding peptides within the S protein could be identified through combining the peptide scanning and predictive methods, and could be exploited as biochemical detection reagents for viral infection. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Diagnostics for real-time plasma control in PBX-M

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaita, R.; Batha, S.; Bell, R. E.; Bernabei, S.; Hatcher, R.; Kozub, T.; Kugel, H.; Levinton, F.; Okabayashi, M.; Sesnic, S.; von Goeler, S.; Zolfaghari, A.; PBX-M Group

1995-01-01

An important issue for future tokamaks is real-time plasma control for the avoidance of magnetohydrodynamic instabilities and other applications that require detailed plasma profile and fluctuation data. Although measurements from diagnostics providing this information require significantly more processing than magnetic flux data, recent advancements could make them practical for adjusting operational settings for plasma heating and current drive systems as well as field coil currents. On the Princeton Beta Experiment-Modification (PBX-M), the lower hybrid current drive phasing can be varied during a plasma shot using digitally programmable ferrite phase shifters, and neural beam functions can be fully computer controlled. PBX-M diagnostics that may be used for control purposes include motional Stark-effect polarimetry for magnetic field pitch angle profiles, soft x-ray arrays for plasma position control and the separation of βp from li, hard x-ray detectors for energetic electron distributions, a multichannel electron cyclotron emission radiometer for ballooning mode identification, and passive plate eddy current monitors for kink stabilization. We will describe the present status of these systems on PBX-M, and discuss their suitability for feedback applications.

Evaluation of feasibility of 1.5 Tesla prostate MRI using body coil RF transmit in a patient with an implanted vagus nerve stimulator.

PubMed

Favazza, Christopher P; Edmonson, Heidi A; Ma, Chi; Shu, Yunhong; Felmlee, Joel P; Watson, Robert E; Gorny, Krzysztof R

2017-11-01

To assess risks of RF-heating of a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) during 1.5 T prostate MRI using body coil transmit and to compare these risks with those associated with MRI head exams using a transmit/receive head coil. Spatial distributions of radio-frequency (RF) B1 fields generated by transmit/receive (T/R) body and head coils were empirically assessed along the long axis of a 1.5 T MRI scanner bore. Measurements were obtained along the center axis of the scanner and laterally offset by 15 cm (body coil) and 7 cm (head coil). RF-field measurements were supplemented with direct measurements of RF-heating of 15 cm long copper wires affixed to and submerged in the "neck" region of the gelled saline-filled (sodium chloride and polyacrylic acid) "head-and-torso" phantom. Temperature elevations at the lead tips were measured using fiber-optic thermometers with the phantom positioned at systematically increased distances from the scanner isocenter. B1 field measurements demonstrated greater than 10 dB reduction in RF power at distances beyond 28 cm and 24 cm from isocenter for body and head coil, respectively. Moreover, RF power from body coil transmit at distances greater than 32 cm from isocenter was found to be lower than from the RF power from head coil transmit measured at locations adjacent to the coil array at its opening. Correspondingly, maximum temperature elevations at the tips of the copper wires decreased with increasing distance from isocenter - from 7.4°C at 0 cm to no appreciable heating at locations beyond 40 cm. For the particular scanner model evaluated in this study, positioning an implanted VNS farther than 32 cm from isocenter (configuration achievable for prostate exams) can reduce risks of RF-heating resulting from the body coil transmit to those associated with using a T/R head coil. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

A wideband wireless neural stimulation platform for high-density microelectrode arrays.

PubMed

Myers, Frank B; Simpson, Jim A; Ghovanloo, Maysam

2006-01-01

We describe a system that allows researchers to control an implantable neural microstimulator from a PC via a USB 2.0 interface and a novel dual-carrier wireless link, which provides separate data and power transmission. Our wireless stimulator, Interestim-2B (IS-2B), is a modular device capable of generating controlled-current stimulation pulse trains across 32 sites per module with support for a variety of stimulation schemes (biphasic/monophasic, bipolar/monopolar). We have developed software to generate multi-site stimulation commands for the IS-2B based on streaming data from artificial sensory devices such as cameras and microphones. For PC interfacing, we have developed a USB 2.0 microcontroller-based interface. Data is transmitted using frequency-shift keying (FSK) at 6/12 MHz to achieve a data rate of 3 Mb/s via a pair of rectangular coils. Power is generated using a class-E power amplifier operating at 1 MHz and transmitted via a separate pair of spiral planar coils which are oriented perpendicular to the data coils to minimize cross-coupling. We have successfully demonstrated the operation of the system by applying it as a visual prosthesis. Pulse-frequency modulated stimuli are generated in real-time based on a grayscale image from a webcam. These pulses are projected onto an 11x11 LED matrix that represents a 2D microelectrode array.

Low field electron paramagnetic resonance imaging with SQUID detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hahn, Inseob (Inventor); Day, Peter K. (Inventor); Penanen, Konstantin I. (Inventor); Eom, Byeong H. (Inventor); Cohen, Mark S. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

In one embodiment, a flux transformer with a gradiometer pickup coil is magnetically coupled to a SQUID, and a SQUID array amplifier comprising a plurality of SQUIDs, connected in series, is magnetically coupled to the output of the SQUID. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Liquid crystal polymers: evidence of hairpin defects in nematic main chains, comparison with side chain polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, M. H.; Brûlet, A.; Keller, P.; Cotton, J. P.

1996-09-01

This article describes the conformation of two species of liquid crystalline polymers as revealed by small angle neutron scattering. The results obtained with side chain polymers are recalled. The procedure used to analyze the scattering data of main chains in the nematic phase is reported in this paper. It permits a demonstration of the existence of hairpins. Comparison of both polymer species shows that in the isotropic phase, the two polymers adopt a random coil conformation. In the nematic phase, the conformations are very different; the side chains behave as a melt of penetrable random coils whereas the main chains behave as a nematic phase of non penetrable cylinders.

Magnetic lens apparatus for use in high-resolution scanning electron microscopes and lithographic processes

DOEpatents

Crewe, Albert V.

2000-01-01

Disclosed are lens apparatus in which a beam of charged particlesis brought to a focus by means of a magnetic field, the lens being situated behind the target position. In illustrative embodiments, a lens apparatus is employed in a scanning electron microscopeas the sole lens for high-resolution focusing of an electron beam, and in particular, an electron beam having an accelerating voltage of from about 10 to about 30,000 V. In one embodiment, the lens apparatus comprises an electrically-conducting coil arranged around the axis of the beam and a magnetic pole piece extending along the axis of the beam at least within the space surrounded by the coil. In other embodiments, the lens apparatus comprises a magnetic dipole or virtual magnetic monopole fabricated from a variety of materials, including permanent magnets, superconducting coils, and magnetizable spheres and needles contained within an energy-conducting coil. Multiple-array lens apparatus are also disclosed for simultaneous and/or consecutive imaging of multiple images on single or multiple specimens. The invention further provides apparatus, methods, and devices useful in focusing charged particle beams for lithographic processes.

Techniques for the measurement of disruption halo currents in the National Spherical Torus Experiment.

PubMed

Gerhardt, S P; Fredrickson, E; Guttadora, L; Kaita, R; Kugel, H; Menard, J; Takahashi, H

2011-10-01

This paper describes techniques for measuring halo currents, and their associated toroidal peaking, in the National Spherical Torus Experiments [M. Ono et al., Nucl. Fusion 40, 557 (2000)]. The measurements are based on three techniques: (1) measurement of the toroidal field created by the poloidal halo current, either with segmented Rogowski coils or discrete toroidal field sensors, (2) the direct measurement of halo currents into specially instrument tiles, and (3) small Rogowski coils placed on the mechanical supports of in-vessel components. For the segmented Rogowski coils and discrete toroidal field detectors, it is shown that the toroidal peaking factor inferred from the data is significantly less than the peaking factor of the underlying halo current distribution, and a simple model is developed to relate the two. For the array of discrete toroidal field detectors and small Rogowski sensors, the compensation steps that are used to isolate the halo current signal are described. The electrical and mechanical design of compact under-tile resistive shunts and mini-Rogowski coils is described. Example data from the various systems are shown.

Getting a grip on the transverse motion in a Zeeman decelerator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dulitz, Katrin; Softley, Timothy P., E-mail: tim.softley@chem.ox.ac.uk; Motsch, Michael

2014-03-14

Zeeman deceleration is an experimental technique in which inhomogeneous, time-dependent magnetic fields generated inside an array of solenoid coils are used to manipulate the velocity of a supersonic beam. A 12-stage Zeeman decelerator has been built and characterized using hydrogen atoms as a test system. The instrument has several original features including the possibility to replace each deceleration coil individually. In this article, we give a detailed description of the experimental setup, and illustrate its performance. We demonstrate that the overall acceptance in a Zeeman decelerator can be significantly increased with only minor changes to the setup itself. This ismore » achieved by applying a rather low, anti-parallel magnetic field in one of the solenoid coils that forms a temporally varying quadrupole field, and improves particle confinement in the transverse direction. The results are reproduced by three-dimensional numerical particle trajectory simulations thus allowing for a rigorous analysis of the experimental data. The findings suggest the use of a modified coil configuration to improve transverse focusing during the deceleration process.« less

Techniques for the measurement of disruption halo currents in the National Spherical Torus Experiment

DOE PAGES

Gerhardt, S. P.; Fredrickson, E.; Guttadora, L.; ...

2011-10-06

This paper describes techniques for measuring halo currents, and their associated toroidal peaking, in the National Spherical Torus Experiments. The measurements are based on three techniques: (i) measurement of the toroidal field created by the poloidal halo current, either with segmented Rogowski coils or discrete toroidal field sensors, (ii) the direct measurement of halo currents into specially instrument tiles, and (iii) small Rogowski coils placed on the mechanical supports of in-vessel components. For the segmented Rogowski coils and discrete toroidal field detectors, it is shown that the toroidal peaking factor inferred from the data is significantly less than the peakingmore » factor of the underlying halo current distribution, and a simple model is developed to relate the two. For the array of discrete toroidal field detectors and small Rogowski sensors, the compensation steps that are used to isolate the halo current signal are described. The electrical and mechanical design of compact under-tile resistive shunts and mini-Rogowski coils is described. Example data from the various systems is shown.« less

Magnetic Resonance Characterization of Axonal Response to Spinal Cord Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-01

In addition, we discovered a crack in the epoxy of our custom gradient coil that produced a vibrational phase instability in the data, and we...corrected this by applying a new layer of epoxy resin to the gradient coil windings. After these modifications to the gradient coil hardware had been...the chemical shifts of the constituents making up myelin lipids. The spectrum could be modeled as a sum of super -Lorentzians with a T2* distribution

Co-located haptic and 3D graphic interface for medical simulations.

PubMed

Berkelman, Peter; Miyasaka, Muneaki; Bozlee, Sebastian

2013-01-01

We describe a system which provides high-fidelity haptic feedback in the same physical location as a 3D graphical display, in order to enable realistic physical interaction with virtual anatomical tissue during modelled procedures such as needle driving, palpation, and other interventions performed using handheld instruments. The haptic feedback is produced by the interaction between an array of coils located behind a thin flat LCD screen, and permanent magnets embedded in the instrument held by the user. The coil and magnet configuration permits arbitrary forces and torques to be generated on the instrument in real time according to the dynamics of the simulated tissue by activating the coils in combination. A rigid-body motion tracker provides position and orientation feedback of the handheld instrument to the computer simulation, and the 3D display is produced using LCD shutter glasses and a head-tracking system for the user.

Improved venous suppression on renal MR angiography with recessed elliptical centric ordering of K-space.

PubMed

Ho, Bernard; Chao, Minh; Zhang, Hong Lei; Watts, Richard; Prince, Martin R

2003-01-01

To evaluate recessed elliptical centric ordering of k-space in renal magnetic resonance (MR) angiography. All imaging was performed on the same 1.5 T MR imaging system (GE Signa CVi) using the body coil for signal transmission and a phased array coil for reception. Gd, 30 ml, was injected manually at 2 ml/sec timed with automatic triggering (SmartPrep). In thirty patients using standard elliptical centric ordering, the scanner paused 8 seconds between detection of the leading edge of the Gd bolus and initiation of scanning beginning with the center of k-space. For the recessed-elliptical centric ordering in 20 consecutive patients, this delay was reduced to 4 seconds but the absolute center of k-space recessed in by 4 seconds such that in all patients the absolute center of k-space was acquired 8 seconds after detecting the leading edge of the bolus. On the arterial phase images signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was measured in the aorta, each renal artery and vein and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was measured relative to subcutaneous fat. The standard deviation of signal outside the patient was considered to be "noise" for calculation of SNR and CNR. Incidence of ringing artifact in the aorta and renal veins was noted. Aorta SNR and CNR was significantly higher with the recessed technique (p = 0.02) and the ratio of renal artery signal to renal vein signal was higher with the recessed technique, 4 ± 2, compared to standard elliptical centric, 3 ± 2 (p = 0.03). Ringing artifact was also reduced with the recessed technique in both the aorta and renal veins. Gadolinium-enhanced renal MR angiography is improved by recessing the absolute center of k-space.

A high-sensitive static vector magnetometer based on two vibrating coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Jing; Pan, Cheng Liang; Wang, Hong Bo; Feng, Zhi Hua

2011-12-01

A static vector magnetometer based on two-dimensional (2D) vibrating coils actuated by a piezoelectric cantilever is presented. Two individual sensing coils are orthogonally fastened at the tip of cantilever and piezoelectric sheets are used to excite the cantilever bending. Due to off-axis coupler on the tip, the cantilever generates bending and twisting vibrations simultaneously on their corresponding resonant frequencies, realizing the 2D rotating vibrations of the coils. According to Faraday-Lenz Law, output voltages are induced from the coils. They are amplified by a pre-amplifier circuit, decoupled by a phase-sensitive detector, and finally used to calculate the vector of magnetic field at the coil location. The coil head of a prototype magnetometer possesses a dc sensitivity of around 10 μV/Gs with a good linearity in the measuring range from 0 to 16 μT. The corresponding noise level is about 13.1 nT in the bandwidth from 0.01 Hz to 1 Hz.

A Thermal Performance Analysis and Comparison of Fiber Coils with the D-CYL Winding and QAD Winding Methods.

PubMed

Li, Xuyou; Ling, Weiwei; He, Kunpeng; Xu, Zhenlong; Du, Shitong

2016-06-16

The thermal performance under variable temperature conditions of fiber coils with double-cylinder (D-CYL) and quadrupolar (QAD) winding methods is comparatively analyzed. Simulation by the finite element method (FEM) is done to calculate the temperature distribution and the thermal-induced phase shift errors in the fiber coils. Simulation results reveal that D-CYL fiber coil itself has fragile performance when it experiences an axially asymmetrical temperature gradient. However, the axial fragility performance could be improved when the D-CYL coil meshes with a heat-off spool. Through further simulations we find that once the D-CYL coil is provided with an axially symmetrical temperature environment, the thermal performance of fiber coils with the D-CYL winding method is better than that with the QAD winding method under the same variable temperature conditions. This valuable discovery is verified by two experiments. The D-CYL winding method is thus promising to overcome the temperature fragility of interferometric fiber optic gyroscopes (IFOGs).

A Thermal Performance Analysis and Comparison of Fiber Coils with the D-CYL Winding and QAD Winding Methods

PubMed Central

Li, Xuyou; Ling, Weiwei; He, Kunpeng; Xu, Zhenlong; Du, Shitong

2016-01-01

The thermal performance under variable temperature conditions of fiber coils with double-cylinder (D-CYL) and quadrupolar (QAD) winding methods is comparatively analyzed. Simulation by the finite element method (FEM) is done to calculate the temperature distribution and the thermal-induced phase shift errors in the fiber coils. Simulation results reveal that D-CYL fiber coil itself has fragile performance when it experiences an axially asymmetrical temperature gradient. However, the axial fragility performance could be improved when the D-CYL coil meshes with a heat-off spool. Through further simulations we find that once the D-CYL coil is provided with an axially symmetrical temperature environment, the thermal performance of fiber coils with the D-CYL winding method is better than that with the QAD winding method under the same variable temperature conditions. This valuable discovery is verified by two experiments. The D-CYL winding method is thus promising to overcome the temperature fragility of interferometric fiber optic gyroscopes (IFOGs). PMID:27322271

Lessons learned from twenty-year operation of the Large Helical Device poloidal coils made from cable-in-conduit conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahata, Kazuya; Moriuchi, Sadatomo; Ooba, Kouki; Takami, Shigeyuki; Iwamoto, Akifumi; Mito, Toshiyuki; Imagawa, Shinsaku

2018-04-01

The Large Helical Device (LHD) superconducting magnet system consists of two pairs of helical coils and three pairs of poloidal coils. The poloidal coils use cable-in-conduit (CIC) conductors, which have now been adopted in many fusion devices, with forced cooling by supercritical helium. The poloidal coils were first energized with the helical coils on March 27, 1998. Since that time, the coils have experienced 54,600 h of steady cooling, 10,600 h of excitation operation, and nineteen thermal cycles for twenty years. During this period, no superconducting-to-normal transition of the conductors has been observed. The stable operation of the poloidal coils demonstrates that a CIC conductor is suited to large-scale superconducting magnets. The AC loss has remained constant, even though a slight decrease was observed in the early phase of operation. The hydraulic characteristics have been maintained without obstruction over the entire period of steady cooling. The experience gained from twenty years of operation has also provided lessons regarding malfunctions of peripheral equipment.

Plasma Braking Due to External Magnetic Perturbations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frassinetti, L.; Olofsson, Kejo; Brunsell, P. R.; Khan, M. W. M.; Drake, J. R.

2010-11-01

The RFP EXTRAP T2R is equipped with a comprehensive active feedback system (128 active saddle coils in the full-coverage array) and active control of both resonant and non-resonant MHD modes has been demonstrated. The feedback algorithms, based on modern control methodology such as reference mode tracking (both amplitude and phase), are a useful tool to improve the ``state of the art'' of the MHD mode control. But this tool can be used also to improve the understanding and the characterization of other phenomena such as the ELM mitigation with a resonant magnetic perturbation or the plasma viscosity. The present work studies plasma and mode braking due to static RMPs. Results show that a static RMP produces a global braking of the flow profile. The study of the effect of RMPs characterized by different helicities will also give information on the plasma viscosity profile. Experimental results are finally compared to theoretical models.

Directional Reflective Surface Formed via Gradient-Impeding Acoustic Meta-Surfaces

PubMed Central

Song, Kyungjun; Kim, Jedo; Hur, Shin; Kwak, Jun-Hyuk; Lee, Seong-Hyun; Kim, Taesung

2016-01-01

Artificially designed acoustic meta-surfaces have the ability to manipulate sound energy to an extraordinary extent. Here, we report on a new type of directional reflective surface consisting of an array of sub-wavelength Helmholtz resonators with varying internal coiled path lengths, which induce a reflection phase gradient along a planar acoustic meta-surface. The acoustically reshaped reflective surface created by the gradient-impeding meta-surface yields a distinct focal line similar to a parabolic cylinder antenna, and is used for directive sound beamforming. Focused beam steering can be also obtained by repositioning the source (or receiver) off axis, i.e., displaced from the focal line. Besides flat reflective surfaces, complex surfaces such as convex or conformal shapes may be used for sound beamforming, thus facilitating easy application in sound reinforcement systems. Therefore, directional reflective surfaces have promising applications in fields such as acoustic imaging, sonic weaponry, and underwater communication. PMID:27562634

Optimizing MRI for imaging peripheral arthritis.

PubMed

Hodgson, Richard J; O'Connor, Philip J; Ridgway, John P

2012-11-01

MRI is increasingly used for the assessment of both inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis. The wide variety of MRI systems in use ranges from low-field, low-cost extremity units to whole-body high-field 7-T systems, each with different strengths for specific applications. The availability of dedicated radiofrequency phased-array coils allows the rapid acquisition of high-resolution images of one or more peripheral joints. MRI is uniquely flexible in its ability to manipulate image contrast, and individual MR sequences may be combined into protocols to sensitively visualize multiple features of arthritis including synovitis, bone marrow lesions, erosions, cartilage changes, and tendinopathy. Careful choice of the imaging parameters allows images to be generated with optimal quality while minimizing unwanted artifacts. Finally, there are many novel MRI techniques that can quantify disease levels in arthritis in tissues including synovitis and cartilage. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

NMR measurement system including two synchronized ring buffers, with 128 rf coils for in situ water monitoring in a polymer electrolyte fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogawa, Kuniyasu; Haishi, Tomoyuki; Aoki, Masaru; Hasegawa, Hiroshi; Morisaka, Shinichi; Hashimoto, Seitaro

2017-01-01

A small radio-frequency (rf) coil inserted into a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) can be used to acquire nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals from the water in a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) or in oxygen gas channels in the PEFC. Measuring the spatial distribution of the water in a large PEFC requires using many rf probes, so an NMR measurement system which acquires NMR signals from 128 rf probes at intervals of 0.5 s was manufactured. The system has eight rf transceiver units with a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) for modulation of the excitation pulse and quadrature phase detection of the NMR signal, and one control unit with two ring buffers for data control. The sequence data required for the NMR measurement were written into one ring buffer. The acquired NMR signal data were then written temporarily into the other ring buffer and then were transmitted to a personal computer (PC). A total of 98 rf probes were inserted into the PEFC that had an electrical generation area of 16 cm × 14 cm, and the water generated in the PEFC was measured when the PEFC operated at 100 A. As a result, time-dependent changes in the spatial distribution of the water content in the MEA and the water in the oxygen gas channels were obtained.

Magnetic Control of Locked Modes in Present Devices and ITER

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volpe, F. A.; Sabbagh, S.; Sweeney, R.; Hender, T.; Kirk, A.; La Haye, R. J.; Strait, E. J.; Ding, Y. H.; Rao, B.; Fietz, S.; Maraschek, M.; Frassinetti, L.; in, Y.; Jeon, Y.; Sakakihara, S.

2014-10-01

The toroidal phase of non-rotating (``locked'') neoclassical tearing modes was controlled in several devices by means of applied magnetic perturbations. Evidence is presented from various tokamaks (ASDEX Upgrade, DIII-D, JET, J-TEXT, KSTAR), spherical tori (MAST, NSTX) and a reversed field pinch (EXTRAP-T2R). Furthermore, the phase of interchange modes was controlled in the LHD helical device. These results share a common interpretation in terms of torques acting on the mode. Based on this interpretation, it is predicted that control-coil currents will be sufficient to control the phase of locking in ITER. This will be possible both with the internal coils and with the external error-field-correction coils, and might have promising consequences for disruption avoidance (by aiding the electron cyclotron current drive stabilization of locked modes), as well as for spatially distributing heat loads during disruptions. This work was supported in part by the US Department of Energy under DE-SC0008520, DE-FC-02-04ER54698 and DE-AC02-09CH11466.

Compensation for z-directional non-uniformity of a monopole antenna at 7T MRI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Nambeom; Woo, Myung-Kyun; Kang, Chang-Ki

2016-06-01

The research was conducted to find ways to compensate for z-directional non-uniformity at a monopole antenna array (MA) coil by using a tilted optimized non-saturating excitation (TONE) pulse and to evaluate the feasibility of using the MA coil with the TONE pulse for anatomical and angiographic imaging. The sensitivity of a MA coil along the z-direction was measured by using an actual flip angle imaging pulse sequence with an oil phantom to evaluate the flip angle distributions of the MA coil for 7T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The effects on the z-directional uniformity were examined by using slow and fast TONE pulses, i.e., TONE SLOW and TONE FAST. T1- and T2* -weighted images of the human brain were also examined. The z-directional profiles of the TONE pulses were analyzed by using the average signal intensity throughout the brain. The effect of the TONE pulses on cerebral vessels was further examined by analyzing maximal intensity projections of T1-weighted images. With increasing the applied flip angles, the sensitivity slope slightly increased (0.044 per degree). For the MA coil, the TONE SLOWpulse yielded a compensated profile along the z-direction while the TONE HIGH pulse, which has a flat excitation profile along the z-direction, exhibited a tilted signal intensity toward the coil end, clearly indicating an intrinsic property of the MA coil. Similar to the phantom study, human brain images revealed z-directional symmetry around the peak value for the averaged signal intensity of the TONE SLOW pulse while the TONE HIGH pulse exhibited a tilted signal intensity toward the coil end. In vascular system imaging, the MA coil also clearly demonstrated a beneficial effect on the cerebral vessels, either with or without the TONE pulses. This study demonstrates that TONE pulses could compensate for the intrinsic z-directional non-uniformity of MA coils that exhibit strong uniformity in the x-y plane. Furthermore, tilted pulses, such as TONE pulses, were utilized for visualizing small vessels. Appropriately combining MA coils and TONE pulses could help advance micro-vessel visualization.

Computational electromagnetic methods for transcranial magnetic stimulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gomez, Luis J.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive technique used both as a research tool for cognitive neuroscience and as a FDA approved treatment for depression. During TMS, coils positioned near the scalp generate electric fields and activate targeted brain regions. In this thesis, several computational electromagnetics methods that improve the analysis, design, and uncertainty quantification of TMS systems were developed. Analysis: A new fast direct technique for solving the large and sparse linear system of equations (LSEs) arising from the finite difference (FD) discretization of Maxwell's quasi-static equations was developed. Following a factorization step, the solver permits computation of TMS fields inside realistic brain models in seconds, allowing for patient-specific real-time usage during TMS. The solver is an alternative to iterative methods for solving FD LSEs, often requiring run-times of minutes. A new integral equation (IE) method for analyzing TMS fields was developed. The human head is highly-heterogeneous and characterized by high-relative permittivities (107). IE techniques for analyzing electromagnetic interactions with such media suffer from high-contrast and low-frequency breakdowns. The novel high-permittivity and low-frequency stable internally combined volume-surface IE method developed. The method not only applies to the analysis of high-permittivity objects, but it is also the first IE tool that is stable when analyzing highly-inhomogeneous negative permittivity plasmas. Design: TMS applications call for electric fields to be sharply focused on regions that lie deep inside the brain. Unfortunately, fields generated by present-day Figure-8 coils stimulate relatively large regions near the brain surface. An optimization method for designing single feed TMS coil-arrays capable of producing more localized and deeper stimulation was developed. Results show that the coil-arrays stimulate 2.4 cm into the head while stimulating 3.0 times less volume than Figure-8 coils. Uncertainty quantification (UQ): The location/volume/depth of the stimulated region during TMS is often strongly affected by variability in the position and orientation of TMS coils, as well as anatomical differences between patients. A surrogate model-assisted UQ framework was developed and used to statistically characterize TMS depression therapy. The framework identifies key parameters that strongly affect TMS fields, and partially explains variations in TMS treatment responses.

SU-F-J-159: Influence of the Elevated Posterior Position by Using the Customized Vacuum-Bag On the Abdominal MR Image Quality: A Quantitative Phantom Study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wong, O; Yuan, J; Law, M

Purpose: Signal-to-noise ratio(SNR) of MR abdominal imaging in diagnostic radiology is maximized by minimizing the coil-to-patient distance. However, for radiotherapy applications, customized vacuum-bag is needed for abdominal immobilization at the cost of the increasing distance to the posterior spine coil. This sub-optimized coil setting for RT applications may compromise image quality, such as SNR and homogeneity, thus potentially affect tissue delineation. In this study, we quantitatively evaluate the effect of the vertical position change on SNR and image quality change using an ACR MR phantom. Methods: An ACR MR phantom was placed on the flat couch top. Images were acquiredmore » using an 18-channel body array coil and spine coil on a dedicated 1.5T MR-simulator. The scan was repeated three times with the ACR phantom elevated up to 7.5cm from the couch top, with a step size of 2.5cm. All images were acquired using standard ACR test sequence protocol of 2D spin-echo T1-weighted(TR/TE=500/200ms) and T2-weighted(TR/TE1/TE2=2000/20/80) sequences. For all scans, pre-scan normalization was turned on, and the distance between the phantom and the anterior 18-channel body array coil was kept constant. SNR was calculated using the slice with a large water-only region of the phantom. Percent intensity uniformity(PIU) and low contrast object detectability(LCD) were assessed by following ACR test guidelines. Results: The decrease in image SNR(from 335.8 to 169.3) and LCD(T1: from 31 to 19 spokes, T2: 26 to 16 spokes) were observed with increasing vertical distance. After elevating the phantom by 2.5cm(approximately the thickness of standard vacuum-bag), SNR change(from 335.8 to 275.5) and LCD(T1: 31 to 26 spokes, T2: 26 to 21 spokes) change were noted. However, similar PIU was obtained for all choices of vertical distance (T1: 94.5%–95.0%, T2: 94.4%–96.8%). Conclusion: After elevating the scan object, reduction in SNR level and contrast detectability but no change in image homogeneity was observed.« less

Frequency Characteristics of the MAGLEV Double-layered Propulsion Coil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ema, Satoshi

The MAGLEV (magnetically levitated vehicle) is now well along in development testing at Yamanashi Test Line. The MAGLEV power source needs to supply a variable voltage and variable frequency to propulsion coils, which installed on outdoor guideway. The output voltage of the electric power converter contains many higher harmonics, which causes many troubles such as inductive interference. Accordingly, it is necessary to clarify the frequency characteristics of the propulsion coils and the power feeding circuit. In view of this situation, experiments and the theoretical analysis concerning the frequency characteristics of the propulsion coils with single-layer arrangement and the power feeding circuit at Miyazaki Test Line had been performed by the author. But the arrangement of the propulsion coils had been changed in Yamanashi Test Line from the single-layered coils to the double-layered coils for the stability of the super-conducting magnet on board. Thus, experiments and investigations concerning the frequency characteristics(resonance characteristics)of the propulsion coils with double-layer arrangement at Yamanashi Test Line have been performed but a theoretical analysis had not been done enough. A theoretical analysis was therefore done in this paper by applying the inverted L equivalent circuit with mutual inductance and capacitance to the propulsion coil, from which the positive and zero phase characteristics of the double-layered propulsion coils were analyzed.

61. VIEW LOOKING NORTHWEST AT A SIGNAL REACTOR OR CHOKE ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

61. VIEW LOOKING NORTHWEST AT A SIGNAL REACTOR OR CHOKE COIL. WITHIN THE PROTECTIVE ENCLOSURE IS AN AIR AND PORCELAIN INSULATED COIL OF 5/8' DIAMETER STRANDED COPPER WIRE. REACTOR COILS WERE PLACED IN SERIES WITH EACH LEG OF THREE PHASE GENERATORS. THEIR FUNCTION WAS TO MODERATE SURGES OF CURRENT CAUSED BY LIGHTNING STRIKES, OPEN OR SHORT CIRCUIT PROBLEMS ON THE LINE. - New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, Cos Cob Power Plant, Sound Shore Drive, Greenwich, Fairfield County, CT

Design of a dual sensor probe array for internal field measurement in Versatile Experiment Spherical Torusa)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong-hun, Yang; Chung, Kyoung-Jae; An, YoungHwa; Jung, Bong Ki; Jo, Jong Gab; Hwang, Y. S.

2012-10-01

A dual sensor probe array is designed and constructed for internal magnetic field measurement at Versatile Experiment Spherical Torus (VEST) at the Seoul National University. Simultaneous use of Hall sensors and chip inductors allows cross-calibration among the measurements and compensation for each other's weaknesses while their small sizes are expected to cause only mild plasma perturbations. Calibration of the dual sensor probe array, using a Helmholtz coil, shows good sensitivity for the magnetic field measurement of the VEST. Prior to Ohmic start-up, the magnetic field structure inside the vacuum chamber is measured by using the calibrated probe array. The dual sensor probe array is expected to be useful in analyzing the temporal magnetic field structure change during the magnetic reconnection and in reconstruction of the current profile during the discharge of the VEST device.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yang, T.F.; Lee, A.Y.; Ruck, G.W.

A feasible compact poloidal divertor system has been designed as an impurity control and vacuum vessel first-wall protection option for the TNS tokamak. The divertor coils are inside the TF coil array and vacuum vessel. The poloidal divertor is formed by a pair of coil sets with zero net current. Each set consists of a number of coils forming a dish-shaped washer-like ring. The magnetic flux in the space between the coil sets is compressed vertically to limit the height and to expand the horizontal width of the particle and energy burial chamber which is located in the gap betweenmore » the coil sets. The intensity of the poloidal field is increased to make the pitch angle of the flux lines very large so that the diverted particles can be intercepted by a large number of panels oriented at a small angle with respect to the flux lines. They are carefully shaped and designed such that the entire surfaces are exposed to the incident particles and are not shadowed by each other. Large collecting surface areas can be obtained. Flowing liquid lithium film and solid metal panels have been considered as the particle collectors. The power density for the former is designed at 1 MW/m/sup 2/ and for the latter 0.5 MW/m/sup 2/. The major mechanical, thermal, and vacuum problems have been evaluated in sufficient detail so that the advantages and difficulties are identified. A complete functional picture is presented.« less

In-phased second harmonic wave array generation with intra-Talbot-cavity frequency-doubling.

PubMed

Hirosawa, Kenichi; Shohda, Fumio; Yanagisawa, Takayuki; Kannari, Fumihiko

2015-03-23

The Talbot cavity is one promising method to synchronize the phase of a laser array. However, it does not achieve the lowest array mode with the same phase but the highest array mode with the anti-phase between every two adjacent lasers, which is called out-phase locking. Consequently, their far-field images exhibit 2-peak profiles. We propose intra-Talbot-cavity frequency-doubling. By placing a nonlinear crystal in a Talbot cavity, the Talbot cavity generates an out-phased fundamental wave array, which is converted into an in-phase-locked second harmonic wave array at the nonlinear crystal. We demonstrate numerical calculations and experiments on intra-Talbot-cavity frequency-doubling and obtain an in-phase-locked second harmonic wave array for a Nd:YVO₄ array laser.

How much detail is needed in modeling a transcranial magnetic stimulation figure-8 coil: Measurements and brain simulations

PubMed Central

Mandija, Stefano; Sommer, Iris E. C.; van den Berg, Cornelis A. T.; Neggers, Sebastiaan F. W.

2017-01-01

Background Despite TMS wide adoption, its spatial and temporal patterns of neuronal effects are not well understood. Although progress has been made in predicting induced currents in the brain using realistic finite element models (FEM), there is little consensus on how a magnetic field of a typical TMS coil should be modeled. Empirical validation of such models is limited and subject to several limitations. Methods We evaluate and empirically validate models of a figure-of-eight TMS coil that are commonly used in published modeling studies, of increasing complexity: simple circular coil model; coil with in-plane spiral winding turns; and finally one with stacked spiral winding turns. We will assess the electric fields induced by all 3 coil models in the motor cortex using a computer FEM model. Biot-Savart models of discretized wires were used to approximate the 3 coil models of increasing complexity. We use a tailored MR based phase mapping technique to get a full 3D validation of the incident magnetic field induced in a cylindrical phantom by our TMS coil. FEM based simulations on a meshed 3D brain model consisting of five tissues types were performed, using two orthogonal coil orientations. Results Substantial differences in the induced currents are observed, both theoretically and empirically, between highly idealized coils and coils with correctly modeled spiral winding turns. Thickness of the coil winding turns affect minimally the induced electric field, and it does not influence the predicted activation. Conclusion TMS coil models used in FEM simulations should include in-plane coil geometry in order to make reliable predictions of the incident field. Modeling the in-plane coil geometry is important to correctly simulate the induced electric field and to correctly make reliable predictions of neuronal activation PMID:28640923

A 7T spine array based on electric dipole transmitters.

PubMed

Duan, Qi; Nair, Govind; Gudino, Natalia; de Zwart, Jacco A; van Gelderen, Peter; Murphy-Boesch, Joe; Reich, Daniel S; Duyn, Jeff H; Merkle, Hellmut

2015-10-01

The goal of this study was to explore the feasibility of using an array of electric dipole antennas for RF transmission in spine MRI at high fields. A two-channel transmit array based on an electric dipole design was quantitatively optimized for 7T spine imaging and integrated with a receive array combining eight loop coils. Using B1+ mapping, the transmit efficiency of the dipole array was compared with a design using quadrature loop pairs. The radiofrequency energy deposition for each array was measured using a home-built dielectric phantom and MR thermometry. The performance of the proposed array was qualitatively demonstrated in human studies. The results indicate dramatically improved transmit efficiency for the dipole design compared with the loop excitation. A gain of up to 76% was achieved within the spinal region. For imaging of the spine, electric dipole-based transmitters provide an attractive alternative to the traditional loop-based design. Easy integration with existing receive array technology facilitates practical use at high fields. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Compact type-I coil planet centrifuge for counter-current chromatography

PubMed Central

Yang, Yi; Gu, Dongyu; Liu, Yongqiang; Aisa, Haji Akber; Ito, Yoichiro

2009-01-01

A compact type-I coil planet centrifuge has been developed for performing counter-current chromatography. It has a revolution radius of 10 cm and a column holder height of 5 cm compared with 37 cm and 50 cm in the original prototype, respectively. The reduction in the revolution radius and column length permits application of higher revolution speed and more stable balancing of the rotor which leads us to learn more about its performance and the future potential of type-I coil planet centrifuge. The chromatographic performance of this apparatus was evaluated in terms of retention of the stationary phase (Sf), peak resolution (Rs), theoretical plate (N) and peak retention time (tR). The results of the experiment indicated that increasing the revolution speed slightly improved both the retention of the stationary phase and the peak resolution while the separation time is remarkably shortened to yield an excellent peak resolution at a revolution speed of 800 rpm. With a 12 ml capacity coiled column, DNP-glu, DNP-β-ala and DNP-ala were resolved at Rs of 2.75 and 2.16 within 90 min at a flow rate of 0.4 ml/min. We believe that the compact type-I coil planet centrifuge has a high analytical potential. PMID:20060979

Compact type-I coil planet centrifuge for counter-current chromatography.

PubMed

Yang, Yi; Gu, Dongyu; Liu, Yongqiang; Aisa, Haji Akber; Ito, Yoichiro

2010-02-19

A compact type-I coil planet centrifuge has been developed for performing counter-current chromatography. It has a revolution radius of 10 cm and a column holder height of 5 cm compared with 37 and 50 cm in the original prototype, respectively. The reduction in the revolution radius and column length permits application of higher revolution speed and more stable balancing of the rotor which leads us to learn more about its performance and the future potential of type-I coil planet centrifuge. The chromatographic performance of this apparatus was evaluated in terms of retention of the stationary phase (S(f)), peak resolution (R(s)), theoretical plate (N) and peak retention time (t(R)). The results of the experiment indicated that increasing the revolution speed slightly improved both the retention of the stationary phase and the peak resolution while the separation time is remarkably shortened to yield an excellent peak resolution at a revolution speed of 800 rpm. With a 12 ml capacity coiled column, DNP-DL-glu, DNP-beta-ala and DNP-l-ala were resolved at R(s) of 2.75 and 2.16 within 90 min at a flow rate of 0.4 ml/min. We believe that the compact type-I coil planet centrifuge has a high analytical potential. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A measurement device for electromagnetic flow tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vauhkonen, M.; Hänninen, A.; Lehtikangas, O.

2018-01-01

Electromagnetic flow meters have succesfully been used in many industries to measure the mean flow velocity of conductive liquids. This technology works reliably in single phase flows with axisymmetric flow profiles but can be inaccurate with asymmetric flows, which are encountered, for example, in multiphase flows, pipe elbows and T-junctions. Some computational techniques and measurement devices with multiple excitation coils and measurement electrodes have recently been proposed to be used in cases of asymmetric flows. In earlier studies, we proposed a computational approach for electromagnetic flow tomography (EMFT) for estimating velocity fields utilizing several excitation coils and a set of measurement electrodes attached to the surface of the pipe. This approach has been shown to work well with simulated data but has not been tested extensively with real measurements. In this paper, an EMFT system with four excitation coils and 16 measurement electrodes is introduced. The system is capable of using both square wave and sinusoidal coil current excitations and all the coils can be excited individually, also enabling parallel excitations with multiple frequencies. The studies undertaken in the paper demonstrate that the proposed EMFT system, together with the earlier introduced velocity field reconstruction approach, is capable of producing reliable velocify field estimates in a laboratory environment with both axisymmetric and asymmetric single phase flows.

Giant-FOG: A new player in ground motion instrumentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guattari, F.; de Toldi, E.; Bigueur, A.; Decitre, J. B.; Ponceau, D.; Sèbe, O.; Frenois, A.; Schindelé, F.; Moluçon, C.; Gaffet, S.; Ducloux, E.; Lefèvre, H.

2017-12-01

Based on recent experiences developing very low noise fiber-optic gyroscopes (FOG), first performance results on very large fiber-optic coils of up to 1m diameter are presented. The goal for constructing large FOGs is to evaluate experimentally the physical limits of this kind of technology and to reach the lowest possible noise. While these experiments are probing the fundamental limits of the FOG technology, they also serves as a first step for a cost effective very low noise laboratory rotational seismometer, which could be a game changer in instrumentation of ground motion. Build a Giant-FOG has several difficulties: The first is winding of the coil, the second concerns the mechanical substrate, and third is related to the measurement. - To our knowledge, a winding machine, large enough to wind coil of a 1 meter diameter, does not exist, but thanks to the iXblue expertise in the manufacturing of winding machines and calibration tables, a hydride system has been designed, merging these two technology to fulfill the requirement of winding a large coil on an adequate rotational platform. The characterization of the wobbles of the system will be presented, since this is a critical parameter for the winding and ultimately the performance. - To achieve the highest attainable measurement sensitivity to the real ground rotation, the design of the mechanical substrate of the coil is critical to reduce as much as possible the sensor sensitivities to environmental noises. A preliminary assessment of the global noise performance of the 1m diameter FOG sensor will be presented. - To demonstrate the on-site performance, the low noise inter-disciplinary underground laboratory (LSBB, Rustrel, France), with a dense array of precisely oriented broad-band seismometers, provides the possibility to compare Large FOG rotation records with Array Derivated Rotation measurement method. Results of different prototypes during the development process will be presented to underline the applicability of each technological response to the Large-FOG requirements. Finally we conclude with presentation of the achieved results with a 1m scale diameter FOG having more than 10km of fiber length.

Single-Shot MR Spectroscopic Imaging with Partial Parallel Imaging

PubMed Central

Posse, Stefan; Otazo, Ricardo; Tsai, Shang-Yueh; Yoshimoto, Akio Ernesto; Lin, Fa-Hsuan

2010-01-01

An MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) pulse sequence based on Proton-Echo-Planar-Spectroscopic-Imaging (PEPSI) is introduced that measures 2-dimensional metabolite maps in a single excitation. Echo-planar spatial-spectral encoding was combined with interleaved phase encoding and parallel imaging using SENSE to reconstruct absorption mode spectra. The symmetrical k-space trajectory compensates phase errors due to convolution of spatial and spectral encoding. Single-shot MRSI at short TE was evaluated in phantoms and in vivo on a 3 T whole body scanner equipped with 12-channel array coil. Four-step interleaved phase encoding and 4-fold SENSE acceleration were used to encode a 16×16 spatial matrix with 390 Hz spectral width. Comparison with conventional PEPSI and PEPSI with 4-fold SENSE acceleration demonstrated comparable sensitivity per unit time when taking into account g-factor related noise increases and differences in sampling efficiency. LCModel fitting enabled quantification of Inositol, Choline, Creatine and NAA in vivo with concentration values in the ranges measured with conventional PEPSI and SENSE-accelerated PEPSI. Cramer-Rao lower bounds were comparable to those obtained with conventional SENSE-accelerated PEPSI at the same voxel size and measurement time. This single-shot MRSI method is therefore suitable for applications that require high temporal resolution to monitor temporal dynamics or to reduce sensitivity to tissue movement. PMID:19097245

Three-phase flow? Consider helical-coil heat exchangers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Haraburda, S.S.

1995-07-01

In recent years, chemical process plants are increasingly encountering processes that require heat exchange in three-phase fluids. A typical application, for example, is heating liquids containing solid catalyst particles and non-condensable gases. Heat exchangers designed for three-phase flow generally have tubes with large diameters (typically greater than two inches), because solids can build-up inside the tube and lead to plugging. At the same time, in order to keep heat-transfer coefficients high, the velocity of the process fluid within the tube should also be high. As a result, heat exchangers for three-phase flow may require less than five tubes -- eachmore » having a required linear length that could exceed several hundred feet. Given these limitations, it is obvious that a basic shell-and-tube heat exchanger is not the most practical solution for this purpose. An alternative for three-phase flow is a helical-coil heat exchanger. The helical-coil units offer a number of advantages, including perpendicular, counter-current flow and flexible overall dimensions for the exchanger itself. The paper presents equations for: calculating the tube-side heat-transfer coefficient; calculating the shell-side heat-transfer coefficient; calculating the heat-exchanger size; calculating the tube-side pressure drop; and calculating shell-side pressure-drop.« less

Thermosyphon coil arrangement for heat pump outdoor unit

DOEpatents

Draper, R.

1984-05-22

For a heat pump, the outdoor unit is provided with a coil and a refrigerant flow arrangement there for which is such that in the heating mode of operation of the heat pump they operate in a thermosyphon fashion. The coil has a feed portion and an exit portion leading to a separator drum from which liquid refrigerant is returned through downcomer line for recirculation to the feed portion. The coil is tilted upwardly from entry to exit by the angle alpha to enhance the clearance of the two phases of refrigerant from each other in the heating mode of operation. There is no thermosyphon function in the cooling mode of operation. 9 figs.

Thermosyphon coil arrangement for heat pump outdoor unit

DOEpatents

Draper, Robert

1984-01-01

For a heat pump, the outdoor unit is provided with a coil and a refrigerant flow arrangement therefor which is such that in the heating mode of operation of the heat pump they operate in a thermosyphon fashion. The coil 32 has a feed portion 30 and an exit portion 34 leading to a separator drum 36 from which liquid refrigerant is returned through downcomer line 42 for recirculation to the feed portion. The coil is tilted upwardly from entry to exit by the angle alpha to enhance the clearance of the two phases of refrigerant from each other in the heating mode of operation. There is no thermosyphon function in the cooling mode of operation.

Purification of Proteins From Cell-Culture Medium or Cell-Lysate by High-Speed Counter-Current Chromatography Using Cross-Axis Coil Planet Centrifuge

PubMed Central

Shibusawa, Yoichi; Ito, Yoichiro

2014-01-01

This review describes protein purifications from cell culture medium or cell-lysate by high speed counter-current chromatography using the cross-axis coil planet centrifuge. Purifications were performed using aqueous two phase systems composed of polyethylene glycols and dextrans. PMID:25360182

Single phase two pole/six pole motor

DOEpatents

Kirschbaum, Herbert S.

1984-01-01

A single phase alternating current two pole/six pole motor is provided with a main stator winding having six coils disposed unequally around the periphery of the machine. These coils are divided into two groups. When these groups are connected such that their magnetomotive forces are additive, two pole motor operation results. When the polarity of one of the groups is then reversed, six pole motor operation results. An auxiliary stator winding which is similar to the main stator winding is displaced from the main stator winding by 90 electrical degrees on a two pole basis.

A Study of Phased Array Antennas for NASA's Deep Space Network

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jamnejad, Vahraz; Huang, John; Cesarone, Robert J.

2001-01-01

In this paper we briefly discuss various options but focus on the feasibility of the phased arrays as a viable option for this application. Of particular concern and consideration will be the cost, reliability, and performance compared to the present 70-meter antenna system, particularly the gain/noise temperature levels in the receive mode. Many alternative phased arrays including planar horizontal arrays, hybrid mechanically/electronically steered arrays, phased array of mechanically steered reflectors, multi-faceted planar arrays, phased array-fed lens antennas, and planar reflect-arrays are compared and their viability is assessed. Although they have many advantages including higher reliability, near-instantaneous beam switching or steering capability, the cost of such arrays is presently prohibitive and it is concluded that the only viable array options at the present are the arrays of a few or many small reflectors. The active planar phased arrays, however, may become feasible options in the next decade and can be considered for deployment in smaller configurations as supplementary options.

Experimental observations of the hydrodynamic behavior of solvent systems in high-speed counter-current chromatography. I. Hydrodynamic distribution of two solvent phases in a helical column subjected to two types of synchronous planetary motion.

PubMed

Ito, Y

1984-10-05

Hydrodynamic distribution of two-phase solvent systems in a rotating helical column subjected to centrifugal fields produced by two different types of synchronous planetary motion has been studied by the use of the combined horizontal flow-through coil planet centrifuge. With continuous elution of the mobile phase, the simpler type of motion resulted in low retention of the stationary phase in the column whereas a more complex motion, which produces a quasi-radial centrifugal field varying in both intensity and direction, yielded high stationary phase retention for commonly used solvent systems having a wide range of hydrophobicity. These solvent systems display highly complex modes of hydrodynamic interaction in the coil according to their particular physical properties.

Service Modules for Coal Extraction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gangal, M. D.; Lewis, E. V.

1985-01-01

Service train follows group of mining machines, paying out utility lines as machines progress into coal face. Service train for four mining machines removes gases and coal and provides water and electricity. Flexible, coiling armored carriers protect cables and hoses. High coal production attained by arraying row of machines across face, working side by side.

Development of high-resolution two-dimensional magnetic field measurement system by use of printed-circuit technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akimitsu, Moe; Qinghong, Cao; Sawada, Asuka; Hatano, Hironori; Tanabe, Hiroshi; Ono, Yasushi; TS-Group Team

2017-10-01

We have developed a new-types of high-resolution magnetic probe array for our new magnetic reconnection experiments: TS-3U (ST, FRC: R =0.2m, 2017-) and TS-4U (ST, FRC: R =0.5m, 2018-), using the advanced printed-circuit technology. They are equipped with all three-components of magnetic pick-up coils whose size is 1-5mm x 3mm. Each coil is composed of two-sided coil pattern with line width of 0.05mm. We can install two or three printed arrays in a single glass (ceramic) tube for two or three component measurements. Based on this new probe technique, we started high-resolution and high-accuracy measurement of the current sheet thickness and studied its plasma parameter dependence. We found that the thickness of current sheet increases inversely with the guide toroidal field. It is probably determined by the ion gyroradius in agreement with the particle simulation by Horiuchi etc. While the reconnection speed is steady under low guide field condition, it is observed to oscillate in the specific range of guide field, suggesting transition from the quasi-steady reconnection to the intermittent reconnection. Cause and mechanism for intermittent reconnection will be discussed using the current sheet dissipation and dynamic balance between plasma inflow and outflow. This work supported by JSPS KAKENHI Grant Numbers 15H05750, 15K14279 and 17H04863.

Initial design of 12S-10P outer-rotor field excitation flux switching motor with different rotor width

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Othman, Syed Muhammad Naufal bin Syed; Sulaiman, Erwan bin; Husin, Zhafir Aizat; Khan, Faisal; Mazlan, Mohamed Mubin Aizat

2015-05-01

This paper proposes an initial design of 12 slot, 10 pole outer-rotor field-excitation flux switching motor (FEFSM) with two different rotor width based from 2 different formula to design the rotor width. Hence, initial design include the three coil test to determine the U, W, V-phase, the flux strengthening and weakening, flux at various armature coil and field-excitation coil current, and finally the torque at various JA and JE. As for the materials, the stator and rotor consists of steel sheets made of electromagnetic steels, copper for armature coils and field excitation coils as the only field for magnetic flux source. There will be some design specification and restriction on outer-rotor FEFSM based on 2D-Finite Element Analysis will be applied to design the proposed machine.

Increasing Electrochemiluminescence Intensity of a Wireless Electrode Array Chip by Thousands of Times Using a Diode for Sensitive Visual Detection by a Digital Camera.

PubMed

Qi, Liming; Xia, Yong; Qi, Wenjing; Gao, Wenyue; Wu, Fengxia; Xu, Guobao

2016-01-19

Both a wireless electrochemiluminescence (ECL) electrode microarray chip and the dramatic increase in ECL by embedding a diode in an electromagnetic receiver coil have been first reported. The newly designed device consists of a chip and a transmitter. The chip has an electromagnetic receiver coil, a mini-diode, and a gold electrode array. The mini-diode can rectify alternating current into direct current and thus enhance ECL intensities by 18 thousand times, enabling a sensitive visual detection using common cameras or smart phones as low cost detectors. The detection limit of hydrogen peroxide using a digital camera is comparable to that using photomultiplier tube (PMT)-based detectors. Coupled with a PMT-based detector, the device can detect luminol with higher sensitivity with linear ranges from 10 nM to 1 mM. Because of the advantages including high sensitivity, high throughput, low cost, high portability, and simplicity, it is promising in point of care testing, drug screening, and high throughput analysis.

Multi-field coupled sensing network for health monitoring of composite bolted joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yishou; Qing, Xinlin; Dong, Liang; Banerjee, Sourav

2016-04-01

Advanced fiber reinforced composite materials are becoming the main structural materials of next generation of aircraft because of their high strength and stiffness to weight ratios, and excellent designability. As key components of large composite structures, joints play important roles to ensure the integrity of the composite structures. However, it is very difficult to analyze the strength and failure modes of composite joints due to their complex nonlinear coupling factors. Therefore, there is a need to monitor, diagnose, evaluate and predict the structure state of composite joints. This paper proposes a multi-field coupled sensing network for health monitoring of composite bolted joints. Major work of this paper includes: 1) The concept of multifunctional sensor layer integrated with eddy current sensors, Rogowski coil and arrayed piezoelectric sensors; 2) Development of the process for integrating the eddy current sensor foil, Rogowski coil and piezoelectric sensor array in multifunctional sensor layer; 3) A new concept of smart composite joint with multifunctional sensing capability. The challenges for building such a structural state sensing system and some solutions to address the challenges are also discussed in the study.

Ultra-low output impedance RF power amplifier for parallel excitation.

PubMed

Chu, Xu; Yang, Xing; Liu, Yunfeng; Sabate, Juan; Zhu, Yudong

2009-04-01

Inductive coupling between coil elements of a transmit array is one of the key challenges faced by parallel RF transmission. An ultra-low output impedance RF power amplifier (PA) concept was introduced to address this challenge. In an example implementation, an output-matching network was designed to transform the drain-source impedance of the metallic oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) into a very low value for suppressing interelement coupling effect, and meanwhile, to match the input impedance of the coil to the optimum load of the MOSFET for maximizing the available output power. Two prototype amplifiers with 500-W output rating were developed accordingly, and were further evaluated with a transmit array in phantom experiments. Compared to the conventional 50-Omega sources, the new approach exhibited considerable effectiveness suppressing the effects of interelement coupling. The experiments further indicated that the isolation performance was comparable to that achieved by optimized overlap decoupling. The new approach, benefiting from a distinctive current-source characteristic, also exhibited a superior robustness against load variation. Feasibility of the new approach in high-field MR was demonstrated on a 3T clinical scanner.

Remodeling the zonula adherens in response to tension and the role of afadin in this response

PubMed Central

Acharya, Bipul R.; Peyret, Grégoire; Fardin, Marc-Antoine; Mège, René-Marc; Ladoux, Benoit; Yap, Alpha S.; Fanning, Alan S.

2016-01-01

Morphogenesis requires dynamic coordination between cell–cell adhesion and the cytoskeleton to allow cells to change shape and move without losing tissue integrity. We used genetic tools and superresolution microscopy in a simple model epithelial cell line to define how the molecular architecture of cell–cell zonula adherens (ZA) is modified in response to elevated contractility, and how these cells maintain tissue integrity. We previously found that depleting zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) family proteins in MDCK cells induces a highly organized contractile actomyosin array at the ZA. We find that ZO knockdown elevates contractility via a Shroom3/Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase (ROCK) pathway. Our data suggest that each bicellular border is an independent contractile unit, with actin cables anchored end-on to cadherin complexes at tricellular junctions. Cells respond to elevated contractility by increasing junctional afadin. Although ZO/afadin knockdown did not prevent contractile array assembly, it dramatically altered cell shape and barrier function in response to elevated contractility. We propose that afadin acts as a robust protein scaffold that maintains ZA architecture at tricellular junctions. PMID:27114502

Predicting double negativity using transmitted phase in space coiling metamaterials.

PubMed

Maurya, Santosh K; Pandey, Abhishek; Shukla, Shobha; Saxena, Sumit

2018-05-01

Metamaterials are engineered materials that offer the flexibility to manipulate the incident waves leading to exotic applications such as cloaking, extraordinary transmission, sub-wavelength imaging and negative refraction. These concepts have largely been explored in the context of electromagnetic waves. Acoustic metamaterials, similar to their optical counterparts, demonstrate anomalous effective elastic properties. Recent developments have shown that coiling up the propagation path of acoustic wave results in effective elastic response of the metamaterial beyond the natural response of its constituent materials. The effective response of metamaterials is generally evaluated using the 'S' parameter retrieval method based on amplitude of the waves. The phase of acoustic waves contains information of wave pressure and particle velocity. Here, we show using finite-element methods that phase reversal of transmitted waves may be used to predict extreme acoustic properties in space coiling metamaterials. This change is the difference in the phase of the transmitted wave with respect to the incident wave. This method is simpler when compared with the more rigorous 'S' parameter retrieval method. The inferences drawn using this method have been verified experimentally for labyrinthine metamaterials by showing negative refraction for the predicted band of frequencies.

Performance of external and internal coil configurations for prostate investigations at 7 Tesla

PubMed Central

Metzger, Gregory J.; van de Moortele, Pierre-Francois; Akgun, Can; Snyder, Carl J.; Moeller, Steen; Strupp, John; Andersen, Peter; Shrivastava, Devashish; Vaughan, Tommy; Ugurbil, Kamil; Adriany, Gregor

2010-01-01

Three different coil configurations were evaluated through simulation and experimentally to determine safe operating limits and evaluate subject size dependent performance for prostate imaging at 7 Tesla. The coils included a transceiver endorectal coil (trERC), a 16 channel transceiver external surface array (trESA) and a trESA combined with a receive-only ERC (trESA+roERC). While the transmit B1 (B1+) homogeneity was far superior for the trESA, the maximum achievable B1+ is subject size dependent and limited by transmit chain losses and amplifier performance. For the trERC, limitations in transmit homogeneity greatly compromised image quality and limited coverage of the prostate. Despite these challenges, the high peak B1+ close to the trERC and subject size independent performance provides potential advantages especially for spectroscopic localization where high bandwidth RF pulses are required. On the receive side, the combined trESA+roERC provided the highest SNR and improved homogeneity over the trERC resulting in better visualization of the prostate and surrounding anatomy. In addition, the parallel imaging performance of the trESA+roERC holds strong promise for diffusion weighted imaging and dynamic contrast enhanced MRI. PMID:20740657

Successful Transarterial Guglielmi Detachable Coil Embolization of Post-Traumatic Fistula between a Posterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm and the Cavernous Sinus

PubMed Central

Chen, Y.; Jiang, D-Y.; Tan, H-Q.; Wang, L-H.; Chen, X-Y.; Sun, J-H.

2009-01-01

Summary We describe a case of a post-traumatic posterior communicating artery (PCoA) aneurysmcavernous sinus fistula, which is an extremely rare complication of craniocerebral trauma, successfully treated with endosaccular coil embolization via transarterial route. Endosaccular embolization with Guglielmi detachable coils via transarterial route appears to be a feasible, effective and minimally invasive option for the treatment of post-traumatic fistula between the PCoA aneurysm with a small ostia and the cavernous sinus in the subacute phase. PMID:20465883

Revisiting resolution in hydrodynamic countercurrent chromatography: tubing bore effect.

PubMed

Berthod, A; Faure, K

2015-04-17

A major challenge in countercurrent chromatography (CCC), the technique that works with a support-free biphasic liquid system, is to retain the liquid stationary phase inside the CCC column (Sf parameter). Two solutions are commercially available: the hydrostatic CCC columns, also called centrifugal partition chromatographs (CPC), with disks of interconnected channels and rotary seals, and the hydrodynamic CCC columns with bobbins of coiled open tube and no rotary seals. It was demonstrated that the amount of liquid stationary phase retained by a coiled tube was higher with larger bore tubing than with small bore tubes. At constant column volume, small bore tubing will be longer producing more efficiency than larger bore tube that will better retain the liquid stationary phase. Since the resolution equation in CCC is depending on both column efficiency and stationary phase retention ratio, the influence of the tubing bore should be studied. This theoretical work showed that there is an optimum tubing bore size depending on solute partition coefficient and mobile phase flow rate. The interesting result of the theoretical study is that larger tubing bores allow for dramatically reduced experiment durations for all solutes: in reversed phase CCC (polar mobile phase), hydrophobic solutes are usually highly retained. These apolar solutes can be separated by the same coil at high flow rates and reduced Sf with similar retention times as polar solutes separated at smaller flow rates and much higher Sf. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microtubule organization in three-dimensional confined geometries: evaluating the role of elasticity through a combined in vitro and modeling approach.

PubMed

Cosentino Lagomarsino, Marco; Tanase, Catalin; Vos, Jan W; Emons, Anne Mie C; Mulder, Bela M; Dogterom, Marileen

2007-02-01

Microtubules or microtubule bundles in cells often grow longer than the size of the cell, which causes their shape and organization to adapt to constraints imposed by the cell geometry. We test the reciprocal role of elasticity and confinement in the organization of growing microtubules in a confining box-like geometry, in the absence of other (active) microtubule organizing processes. This is inspired, for example, by the cortical microtubule array of elongating plant cells, where microtubules are typically organized in an aligned array transverse to the cell elongation axis. The method we adopt is a combination of analytical calculations, in which the polymers are modeled as inextensible filaments with bending elasticity confined to a two-dimensional surface that defines the limits of a three-dimensional space, and in vitro experiments, in which microtubules are polymerized from nucleation seeds in microfabricated chambers. We show that these features are sufficient to organize the polymers in aligned, coiling configurations as for example observed in plant cells. Though elasticity can account for the regularity of these arrays, it cannot account for a transverse orientation of microtubules to the cell's long axis. We therefore conclude that an additional active, force-generating process is necessary to create a coiling configuration perpendicular to the long axis of the cell.

The Denaturation Transition of DNA in Mixed Solvents

PubMed Central

Hammouda, Boualem; Worcester, David

2006-01-01

The helix-to-coil denaturation transition in DNA has been investigated in mixed solvents at high concentration using ultraviolet light absorption spectroscopy and small-angle neutron scattering. Two solvents have been used: water and ethylene glycol. The “melting” transition temperature was found to be 94°C for 4% mass fraction DNA/d-water and 38°C for 4% mass fraction DNA/d-ethylene glycol. The DNA melting transition temperature was found to vary linearly with the solvent fraction in the mixed solvents case. Deuterated solvents (d-water and d-ethylene glycol) were used to enhance the small-angle neutron scattering signal and 0.1M NaCl (or 0.0058 g/g mass fraction) salt concentration was added to screen charge interactions in all cases. DNA structural information was obtained by small-angle neutron scattering, including a correlation length characteristic of the inter-distance between the hydrogen-containing (desoxyribose sugar-amine base) groups. This correlation length was found to increase from 8.5 to 12.3 Å across the melting transition. Ethylene glycol and water mixed solvents were found to mix randomly in the solvation region in the helix phase, but nonideal solvent mixing was found in the melted coil phase. In the coil phase, solvent mixtures are more effective solvating agents than either of the individual solvents. Once melted, DNA coils behave like swollen water-soluble synthetic polymer chains. PMID:16815902

Field Testing, Installation, and Calibration of a new Data Acquisition System for the USGS-Stanford-Berkley Ultra-Low Frequency Electromagnetic (ULFEM) Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Creasy, N.; Gardner, J.; Spritzer, J. M.; Keneally, I.; Glen, J. M.; McPhee, D.; Klemperer, S. L.

2013-12-01

Since 2006, Stanford University, USGS, and UC Berkeley collaboratively maintain five permanent stations, to measure electric and magnetic data from 0.01 to 40Hz. Each station consists of three orthogonal coil magnetometers and two orthogonal 100m electrodes. The acquisition of ULFEM data helps study possible correlations between electromagnetic fields and seismic events related to the San Andreas Fault system. The current data acquisition system uses a Quanterra Q330 analog-to-digital converter. In 2010, we began development of a new 24-bit digitizing system known as the ULFEM 2010 digitizer in order to replace the Q330. The design of the new recorder was to be more economical and better tailored to the ULFEM network by providing power, calibration, and improved protection from lightning. However, the prototype had many problems, including a daily phase shift, amplifying error, and a time delay of 15 seconds (Bowden, et al., AGU, 2010). Currently, comparative testing of an improved prototype, ULFEM 2013, and the Q330 is taking place at the Jasper Ridge ULFEM station. The ULFEM 2013 contains eight channels that record input from three coil magnetometers, four electrodes, and temperature. Testing is ongoing and involves comparing the coil magnetometer and electrode signals processed by the Q330 and ULFEM 2013 digitizer. Data from the two systems will be compared in the time and frequency domains, and analyses will include calculating error and cross correlations. The ULFEM 2013 digitizer provides power to the magnetometer sensors as well as a calibration coil system (CCS). Every 24 hours, the CCS sends a calibration signal to calibration induction coils fitted to each of the three orthogonal magnetometers with the aim of testing the sensors' sensitivity and accuracy. The CCS produces a frequency sweep of 0.08, 0.51, 5, and 10Hz, creating a field nearly ten times greater than the Earth's field. The CCS consists of open source hardware and an amplifying frequency generator. Another ongoing effort to calibrate the ULFEM stations uses ground motion produced by distant earthquakes. Because of our stations' relatively close proximity (approximately 70km apart), teleseismic earthquakes at epicentral distances produce near-identical long-period seismic arrivals at each ULFEM station. The ground motion generated by the surface waves of distant earthquakes causes displacement of the induction coils, inducing magnetic anomalies in the recorded data. Because the ground motion has nearly the same characteristics at each station, the magnetic anomalies observed should have similar amplitudes regardless of the station (though modulated by the local conductivity structure at each site). To identify these coseismic signals, magnetic data were compared against seismic data from each station. Magnetic signals are clearly visible due to passage of Love and Rayleigh waves from teleseismic earthquakes of magnitude >7.4 and their relative amplitudes provide additional confirmation of the stability of our coils and recording system prior to the installation of the CCS.

Novel 16-channel receive coil array for accelerated upper airway MRI at 3 Tesla.

PubMed

Kim, Yoon-Chul; Hayes, Cecil E; Narayanan, Shrikanth S; Nayak, Krishna S

2011-06-01

Upper airway MRI can provide a noninvasive assessment of speech and swallowing disorders and sleep apnea. Recent work has demonstrated the value of high-resolution three-dimensional imaging and dynamic two-dimensional imaging and the importance of further improvements in spatio-temporal resolution. The purpose of the study was to describe a novel 16-channel 3 Tesla receive coil that is highly sensitive to the human upper airway and investigate the performance of accelerated upper airway MRI with the coil. In three-dimensional imaging of the upper airway during static posture, 6-fold acceleration is demonstrated using parallel imaging, potentially leading to capturing a whole three-dimensional vocal tract with 1.25 mm isotropic resolution within 9 sec of sustained sound production. Midsagittal spiral parallel imaging of vocal tract dynamics during natural speech production is demonstrated with 2 × 2 mm(2) in-plane spatial and 84 ms temporal resolution. Copyright © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

High-Speed, High-Power Active Control Coils for HBT-EP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Debono, Bryan

2010-11-01

We report the performance of a newly installed high-speed, high-power active control system for the application of non-symmetric magnetic fields and the study of rotating MHD and resistive wall modes in the HBTEP tokamak. The new control system consists of an array of 120 modular control coils and 40 solid-state, high-power amplifiers that can apply non-symmetric control fields that are more than 10 times larger than previous studies in HBT-EP and exceed 5% of the equilibrium poloidal field strength. Measurements of the current and field response of the control system are presented as a function of frequency and control coil geometry, and these demonstrate the effectiveness of the system to interact with both growing RWM instabilities and long-wavelength modes rotating with the plasma. We describe a research plan to study the interaction of both kink and tearing mode fluctuations with applied static and rotating magnetic perturbations while systematically changing the plasma rotation with a biased molybdenum electrode inserted into the edge plasma.

APPARATUS FOR TRAPPING ENERGETIC CHARGED PARTICLES AND CONFINING THE RESULTING PLASMA

DOEpatents

Gibson, G.; Jordan, W.C.; Lauer, E.J.

1963-04-01

The present invention relates to a plasma-confining device and a particle injector therefor, the device utilizing a generally toroidal configuration with magnetic fields specifically tailored to the associated injector. The device minimizes the effects of particle end losses and particle drift to the walls with a relatively simple configuration. More particularly, the magnetic field configuration is created by a continuous array of circular, mirror field coils, disposed side-by- side, in particularly spaced relation, to form an endless, toroidal loop. The resulting magnetic field created therein has the appearance of a bumpy'' torus, from which is derived the name Bumpy Torus.'' One of the aforementioned coils is split transverse to its axis, and injection of particles is accomplished along a plane between the halves of such modified coil. The guiding center of the particles follows a constant magnetic field in the plane for a particular distance within the torus, to move therefrom onto a precessional surface which does not intersect the point of injection. (AEC)

Mechanically Resilient Polymeric Films Doped with a Lithium Compound

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meador, Mary Ann B. (Inventor); Kinder, James D. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

This invention is a series of mechanically resilient polymeric films, comprising rod-coil block polyimide copolymers, which are doped with a lithium compound providing lithium ion conductivity, that are easy to fabricate into mechanically resilient films with acceptable ionic or protonic conductivity at a variety of temperatures. The copolymers consists of short-rigid polyimide rod segments alternating with polyether coil segments. The rods and coil segments can be linear, branched or mixtures of linear and branched segments. The highly incompatible rods and coil segments phase separate, providing nanoscale channels for ion conduction. The polyimide segments provide dimensional and mechanical stability and can be functionalized in a number of ways to provide specialized functions for a given application. These rod-coil black polyimide copolymers are particularly useful in the preparation of ion conductive membranes for use in the manufacture of fuel cells and lithium based polymer batteries.

Coiling of elastic rods from a geometric perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jawed, Mohammad; Brun, Pierre-Thomas; Reis, Pedro

2015-03-01

We present results from a systematic numerical investigation of the pattern formation of coiling obtained when a slender elastic rod is deployed onto a moving substrate; a system known as the elastic sewing machine (ESM). The Discrete Elastic Rods method is employed to explore the parameter space, construct phase diagrams, identify their phase boundaries and characterize the morphology of the patterns. The nontrivial geometric nonlinearities are described in terms of the gravito-bending length and the deployment height. Our results are interpreted using a reduced geometric model for the evolution of the position of the contact point with the belt and the curvature of the rod in its neighborhood. This geometric model reproduces all of the coiling patterns of the ESM, which allows us to establish a universal link between our elastic problem and the analogous patterns obtained when depositing a viscous thread onto a moving surface; a well-known system referred to as the fluid mechanical sewing machine.

Development of High-Fill-Factor Large-Aperture Micromirrors for Agile Optical Phased Arrays

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-28

Final Project Report Contract/Grant Title: Development of High-Fill-Factor Large-Aperture Micromirrors for Agile Optical Phased Arrays...factor (HFF) micromirror array (MMA) has been proposed, fabricated and tested. Optical-phased-array (OPA) beam steering based on the HFF MMA has also...electrically tuned to multiple 2. 1. Background High-fill-factor (HFF) micromirror arrays (MMAs) can form optical phased arrays (OPAs) for laser beam

Optimizing Satellite Communications With Adaptive and Phased Array Antennas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ingram, Mary Ann; Romanofsky, Robert; Lee, Richard Q.; Miranda, Felix; Popovic, Zoya; Langley, John; Barott, William C.; Ahmed, M. Usman; Mandl, Dan

2004-01-01

A new adaptive antenna array architecture for low-earth-orbiting satellite ground stations is being investigated. These ground stations are intended to have no moving parts and could potentially be operated in populated areas, where terrestrial interference is likely. The architecture includes multiple, moderately directive phased arrays. The phased arrays, each steered in the approximate direction of the satellite, are adaptively combined to enhance the Signal-to-Noise and Interference-Ratio (SNIR) of the desired satellite. The size of each phased array is to be traded-off with the number of phased arrays, to optimize cost, while meeting a bit-error-rate threshold. Also, two phased array architectures are being prototyped: a spacefed lens array and a reflect-array. If two co-channel satellites are in the field of view of the phased arrays, then multi-user detection techniques may enable simultaneous demodulation of the satellite signals, also known as Space Division Multiple Access (SDMA). We report on Phase I of the project, in which fixed directional elements are adaptively combined in a prototype to demodulate the S-band downlink of the EO-1 satellite, which is part of the New Millennium Program at NASA.

Magnetic force driven six degree-of-freedom active vibration isolation system using a phase compensated velocity sensor.

PubMed

Kim, Yongdae; Kim, Sangyoo; Park, Kyihwan

2009-04-01

A six-axis active vibration isolation system (AVIS) is developed using voice coil actuators. Point contact configuration is employed to have an easy assembly of eight voice coil actuators to an upper and a base plates. The velocity sensor, using an electromagnetic principle that is commonly used in the vibration control, is investigated since its phase lead characteristic causes an instability problem for a low frequency vibration. The performances of the AVIS are investigated in the frequency domain and finally validated by comparing with the passive isolation system using the atomic force microscope images.

Single phase two pole/six pole motor

DOEpatents

Kirschbaum, H.S.

1984-09-25

A single phase alternating current two pole/six pole motor is provided with a main stator winding having six coils disposed unequally around the periphery of the machine. These coils are divided into two groups. When these groups are connected such that their magnetomotive forces are additive, two pole motor operation results. When the polarity of one of the groups is then reversed, six pole motor operation results. An auxiliary stator winding which is similar to the main stator winding is displaced from the main stator winding by 90 electrical degrees on a two pole basis. 12 figs.

Earth's field NMR; a surface moisture detector?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukushima, Eiichi; Altobelli, Stephen; McDowell, Andrew; Zhang, Tongsheng

2012-10-01

Earth's field NMR (EFNMR), being free of magnets, would be an ideal teaching medium as well as a mobile NMR technique except for its weak S/N. The common EFNMR apparatus uses a powerful prepolarization field to enhance the spin magnetization before the experiment. We introduce a coil design geared to larger but manageable samples with sufficient sensitivity without prepolarization to move EFNMR closer to routine use and to provide an inexpensive teaching tool. Our coil consists of parallel wires spread out on a plywood to form a current sheet with the current return wires separated so they will not influence the main part of the coil assembly. The sensitive region is a relatively thin region parallel to the coil and close to it. A single turn of the coil is wound to be topologically equivalent to a figure-8. The two crossing segments in the center of a figure-8 form two of the parallel wires of the flat coil. Thus, a two-turn figure-8 has four crossing wires so its topologically equivalent coil will have four parallel wires with currents in phase. Together with the excellent sensitivity, this coil offers outstanding interference rejection because of the figure-8 geometry. An example of such a coil has 328 parallel wires covering a ˜1 meter square plywood which yields a good NMR signal from 26 liters of water spread out roughly over the area of the coil in less than one minute in a nearby park.

The cdk7-cyclin H-MAT1 complex associated with TFIIH is localized in coiled bodies.

PubMed Central

Jordan, P; Cunha, C; Carmo-Fonseca, M

1997-01-01

TFIIH is a general transcription factor for RNA polymerase II that in addition is involved in DNA excision repair. TFIIH is composed of eight or nine subunits and we show that at least four of them, namely cdk7, cyclin H, MAT1, and p62 are localized in the coiled body, a distinct subnuclear structure that is transcription dependent and highly enriched in small nuclear ribonucleoproteins. Although coiled bodies do not correspond to sites of transcription, in vivo incorporation of bromo-UTP shows that they are surrounded by transcription foci. Immunofluorescence analysis using antibodies directed against the essential repair factors proliferating cell nuclear antigen and XPG did not reveal labeling of the coiled body in either untreated cells or cells irradiated with UV light, arguing that coiled bodies are probably not involved in DNA repair mechanisms. The localization of cyclin H in the coiled body was predominantly detected during the G1 and S-phases of the cell cycle, whereas in G2 coiled bodies were very small or not detected. Finally, both cyclin H and cdk7 did not colocalize with P80 coilin after disruption of the coiled body, indicating that these proteins are specifically targeted to the small nuclear ribonucleoprotein-containing domain. Images PMID:9243502

High resolution anatomical and quantitative MRI of the entire human occipital lobe ex vivo at 9.4T.

PubMed

Sengupta, S; Fritz, F J; Harms, R L; Hildebrand, S; Tse, D H Y; Poser, B A; Goebel, R; Roebroeck, A

2018-03-01

Several magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrasts are sensitive to myelin content in gray matter in vivo which has ignited ambitions of MRI-based in vivo cortical histology. Ultra-high field (UHF) MRI, at fields of 7T and beyond, is crucial to provide the resolution and contrast needed to sample contrasts over the depth of the cortex and get closer to layer resolved imaging. Ex vivo MRI of human post mortem samples is an important stepping stone to investigate MRI contrast in the cortex, validate it against histology techniques applied in situ to the same tissue, and investigate the resolutions needed to translate ex vivo findings to in vivo UHF MRI. Here, we investigate key technology to extend such UHF studies to large human brain samples while maintaining high resolution, which allows investigation of the layered architecture of several cortical areas over their entire 3D extent and their complete borders where architecture changes. A 16 channel cylindrical phased array radiofrequency (RF) receive coil was constructed to image a large post mortem occipital lobe sample (~80×80×80mm 3 ) in a wide-bore 9.4T human scanner with the aim of achieving high-resolution anatomical and quantitative MR images. Compared with a human head coil at 9.4T, the maximum Signal-to-Noise ratio (SNR) was increased by a factor of about five in the peripheral cortex. Although the transmit profile with a circularly polarized transmit mode at 9.4T is relatively inhomogeneous over the large sample, this challenge was successfully resolved with parallel transmit using the kT-points method. Using this setup, we achieved 60μm anatomical images for the entire occipital lobe showing increased spatial definition of cortical details compared to lower resolutions. In addition, we were able to achieve sufficient control over SNR, B 0 and B 1 homogeneity and multi-contrast sampling to perform quantitative T 2 * mapping over the same volume at 200μm. Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling provided maximum posterior estimates of quantitative T 2 * and their uncertainty, allowing delineation of the stria of Gennari over the entire length and width of the calcarine sulcus. We discuss how custom RF receive coil arrays built to specific large post mortem sample sizes can provide a platform for UHF cortical layer-specific quantitative MRI over large fields of view. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High spatial resolution contrast-enhanced MR angiography of the supraaortic arteries using the quadrature body coil at 3.0T: a feasibility study.

PubMed

Willinek, Winfried A; Bayer, Thomas; Gieseke, Jürgen; von Falkenhausen, Marcus; Sommer, Torsten; Hoogeveen, Romhild; Wilhelm, Kai; Urbach, Horst; Schild, Hans H

2007-03-01

To examine whether the the increased signal-to-noise (S/N) available at 3.0T would permit the use of the quadrature body coil for high spatial resolution contrast-enhanced (CE) MR angiography (MRA), and whether the large FOV that was used in our routine 1.5T protocol would also be feasible at 3.0T. In a prospective study, 43 patients and five volunteers were examined on a clinical whole-body 3.0T MR unit (Intera, Philips Medical Systems, Best, The Netherlands) after institutional review board approval and informed consent. Three-dimensional CE MRA (T1 gradient echo-sequence with TR/TE = 5.7/1.93 msec.; acquisition time, 1:54 min.) using randomly segmented central k-space ordering (CENTRA) was acquired with the quadrature body coil, using over a FOV of 350 mm. A high-image matrix of 432x432 yielded a non-zero filled voxel size of 0.81 mm x 0.81 mm x 1.0 mm (0.66 mm(3)). For quantitative analysis, contrast ratios (CR) between vessels (S) and signal in surrounding tissue (ST) were calculated [(S-ST)/(S+ST)]. For qualitative analysis, image quality and presence of artifacts were rated by two radiologists in consensus on a five-point scale (1=excellent to 5=nondiagnostic). Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) served as the standard of reference in patients with vascular disease. In the five volunteers, 1.5T CE MRA using a phased array neurovascular coil was available for intraindividual comparison. 3.0T CE MRA was successfully performed in 48/48 subjects (100%). Mean CR+/- SD were 0.76 (139.30/182.42) and 0.87 (235.18/270.14) at 3.0T and 1.5T respectively . Mean image quality was 3.82+/-0.86. Intraindividual comparison between 1.5T and 3.0T CE MRA in the volunteers revealed no significant difference in image quality (4.2+/-0.74 vs 4.6+/-0.80; p>0.05). Vascular disease was correctly identified in 13/13 patients with DSA correlation. CE MRA of the supraaortic arteries is feasible at 3.0T using a large FOV of 350 mm. The signal gain at 3.0T enables high spatial resolution contrast-enhanced MR angiography by using the built-in quadrature body coil only.

Phased Antenna Array for Global Navigation Satellite System Signals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Turbiner, Dmitry (Inventor)

2015-01-01

Systems and methods for phased array antennas are described. Supports for phased array antennas can be constructed by 3D printing. The array elements and combiner network can be constructed by conducting wire. Different parameters of the antenna, like the gain and directivity, can be controlled by selection of the appropriate design, and by electrical steering. Phased array antennas may be used for radio occultation measurements.

Phased Arrays of Ground and Airborne Mobile Terminals for Satellite Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, John

1996-01-01

Phased array antenna is beginning to play an important in the arena of mobile/satellite communications. Two examples of mobile terminal phased arrays will be shown. Their technical background, challenges, and cost drivers will be discussed. A possible solution to combat some of the deficiencies of the conventional phased array by exploiting the phased reflectarray technology will be briefly presented.

A New Omni-Directional EMAT for Ultrasonic Lamb Wave Tomography Imaging of Metallic Plate Defects

PubMed Central

Huang, Songling; Wei, Zheng; Zhao, Wei; Wang, Shen

2014-01-01

This paper proposes a new omni-directional electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) for the ultrasonic Lamb wave (ULW) tomography imaging (TI) of defects in metallic plates. The proposed EMAT is composed of a permanent magnet and a coil with a contra-flexure structure. This new EMAT coil structure is used for omni-directional ULW transmission and reception and ULW TI for the first time. The theoretical background and the working principles of this EMAT are presented and analyzed. The experimental results of its use on a 3 mm thick aluminum plate indicate that the EMAT with a contra-flexure coil (CFC) can transmit and receive a pure single A0 mode ULW with a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Thus, the extraction of the projection data used for ULW TI may be performed accurately. The circumferential consistency of the projection data is only slightly influenced by the distortion of the eddy current field that is induced by the new CFC with an irregular shape. When the new EMAT array is used for ULW TI using the cross-hole method and SIRT arithmetic, a desirable imaging quality can be achieved, and the estimated size of an artificial corrosion defect agreed well with its actual value. The relation between the reconstruction resolution and the number of the new EMATs used is analyzed. More TI experiments are carried out when the aluminum plate defect is in two different locations relative to the EMAT array, for the further investigation of the performances of the new EMATs. PMID:24561398

DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNOLOGY TO REMOTELY NAVIGATE VERTICAL PIPE ARRAYS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krementz, D.; Immel, D.; Vrettos, N.

Situations exist around the Savannah River Site (SRS) and the Department of Energy (DOE) complex where it is advantageous to remotely navigate vertical pipe arrays. Specific examples are waste tanks in the SRS Tank Farms, which contain horizontal cooling coils at the tank bottom, vertical cooling coils throughout and a limited number of access points or ''risers''. These factors limit accessibility to many parts of these tanks by conventional means. Pipe Traveler technology has been developed to address these issues. The Pipe Traveler addresses these issues by using the vertical cooling coils as its medium of travel. The unit operatesmore » by grabbing a pipe using dual grippers located on either side of the equipment. Once securely attached to the pipe a drive wheel is extended to come in contact with the pipe. Rotation of the drive wheel causes the unit to rotate around the pipe. This action is continued until the second set of grippers is aligned with the next pipe. Extension pistons are actuated to extend the second set of grippers in contact with a second pipe. The second set of grippers is then actuated to grasp the pipe. The first set of grippers releases the original pipe and the process is repeated until the unit reaches its desired location. Once at the tool deployment location the desired tool may be used. The current design has proven the concept of pipe-to-pipe navigation. Testing of the Pipe Traveler has proven its ability to transfer itself from one pipe to another.« less

Phased Array Beamforming and Imaging in Composite Laminates Using Guided Waves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tian, Zhenhua; Leckey, Cara A. C.; Yu, Lingyu

2016-01-01

This paper presents the phased array beamforming and imaging using guided waves in anisotropic composite laminates. A generic phased array beamforming formula is presented, based on the classic delay-and-sum principle. The generic formula considers direction-dependent guided wave properties induced by the anisotropic material properties of composites. Moreover, the array beamforming and imaging are performed in frequency domain where the guided wave dispersion effect has been considered. The presented phased array method is implemented with a non-contact scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (SLDV) to detect multiple defects at different locations in an anisotropic composite plate. The array is constructed of scan points in a small area rapidly scanned by the SLDV. Using the phased array method, multiple defects at different locations are successfully detected. Our study shows that the guided wave phased array method is a potential effective method for rapid inspection of large composite structures.

Delamination Detection Using Guided Wave Phased Arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tian, Zhenhua; Yu, Lingyu; Leckey, Cara

2016-01-01

This paper presents a method for detecting multiple delaminations in composite laminates using non-contact phased arrays. The phased arrays are implemented with a non-contact scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (SLDV). The array imaging algorithm is performed in the frequency domain where both the guided wave dispersion effect and direction dependent wave properties are considered. By using the non-contact SLDV array with a frequency domain imaging algorithm, an intensity image of the composite plate can be generated for delamination detection. For the proof of concept, a laboratory test is performed using a non-contact phased array to detect two delaminations (created through quasi-static impact test) at different locations in a composite plate. Using the non-contact phased array and frequency domain imaging, the two impact-induced delaminations are successfully detected. This study shows that the non-contact phased array method is a potentially effective method for rapid delamination inspection in large composite structures.

Structure of a designed, right-handed coiled-coil tetramer containing all biological amino acids

PubMed Central

Sales, Mark; Plecs, Joseph J.; Holton, James M.; Alber, Tom

2007-01-01

The previous design of an unprecedented family of two-, three-, and four-helical, right-handed coiled coils utilized nonbiological amino acids to efficiently pack spaces in the oligomer cores. Here we show that a stable, right-handed parallel tetrameric coiled coil, called RH4B, can be designed entirely using biological amino acids. The X-ray crystal structure of RH4B was determined to 1.1 Å resolution using a designed metal binding site to coordinate a single Yb2+ ion per 33-amino acid polypeptide chain. The resulting experimental phases were particularly accurate, and the experimental electron density map provided an especially clear, unbiased view of the molecule. The RH4B structure closely matched the design, with equivalent core rotamers and an overall root-mean-square deviation for the N-terminal repeat of the tetramer of 0.24 Å. The clarity and resolution of the electron density map, however, revealed alternate rotamers and structural differences between the three sequence repeats in the molecule. These results suggest that the RH4B structure populates an unanticipated variety of structures. PMID:17766380

Structure of a designed, right-handed coiled-coil tetramer containing all biological amino acids.

PubMed

Sales, Mark; Plecs, Joseph J; Holton, James M; Alber, Tom

2007-10-01

The previous design of an unprecedented family of two-, three-, and four-helical, right-handed coiled coils utilized nonbiological amino acids to efficiently pack spaces in the oligomer cores. Here we show that a stable, right-handed parallel tetrameric coiled coil, called RH4B, can be designed entirely using biological amino acids. The X-ray crystal structure of RH4B was determined to 1.1 Angstrom resolution using a designed metal binding site to coordinate a single Yb(2+) ion per 33-amino acid polypeptide chain. The resulting experimental phases were particularly accurate, and the experimental electron density map provided an especially clear, unbiased view of the molecule. The RH4B structure closely matched the design, with equivalent core rotamers and an overall root-mean-square deviation for the N-terminal repeat of the tetramer of 0.24 Angstrom. The clarity and resolution of the electron density map, however, revealed alternate rotamers and structural differences between the three sequence repeats in the molecule. These results suggest that the RH4B structure populates an unanticipated variety of structures.

Self-assembled nanocages based on the coiled coil bundle motif

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinha, Nairiti; Villegas, Jose; Saven, Jeffery; Kiick, Kristi; Pochan, Darrin

Computational design of coiled coil peptide bundles that undergo solution phase self-assembly presents a diverse toolbox for engineering new materials with tunable and pre-determined nanostructures that can have various end applications such as in drug delivery, biomineralization and electronics. Self-assembled cages are especially advantageous as the cage geometry provides three distinct functional sites: the interior, the exterior and the solvent-cage interface. In this poster, syntheses and characterization of a peptide cage based on computationally designed homotetrameric coiled coil bundles as building blocks is discussed. Techniques such as Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Small-Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) and Analytical Ultracentrifugation (AUC) are employed to characterize the size, shape and molecular weight of the self-assembled peptide cages under different pH and temperature conditions. Various self-assembly pathways such as dialysis and thermal quenching are shown to have a significant impact on the final structure of these peptides in solution. Comparison of results with the target cage design can be used to iteratively improve the peptide design and provide greater understanding of its interactions and folding.

Signal detectability in diffusive media using phased arrays in conjunction with detector arrays.

PubMed

Kang, Dongyel; Kupinski, Matthew A

2011-06-20

We investigate Hotelling observer performance (i.e., signal detectability) of a phased array system for tasks of detecting small inhomogeneities and distinguishing adjacent abnormalities in uniform diffusive media. Unlike conventional phased array systems where a single detector is located on the interface between two sources, we consider a detector array, such as a CCD, on a phantom exit surface for calculating the Hotelling observer detectability. The signal detectability for adjacent small abnormalities (2 mm displacement) for the CCD-based phased array is related to the resolution of reconstructed images. Simulations show that acquiring high-dimensional data from a detector array in a phased array system dramatically improves the detectability for both tasks when compared to conventional single detector measurements, especially at low modulation frequencies. It is also observed in all studied cases that there exists the modulation frequency optimizing CCD-based phased array systems, where detectability for both tasks is consistently high. These results imply that the CCD-based phased array has the potential to achieve high resolution and signal detectability in tomographic diffusive imaging while operating at a very low modulation frequency. The effect of other configuration parameters, such as a detector pixel size, on the observer performance is also discussed.

Monolithic optical phased-array transceiver in a standard SOI CMOS process.

PubMed

Abediasl, Hooman; Hashemi, Hossein

2015-03-09

Monolithic microwave phased arrays are turning mainstream in automotive radars and high-speed wireless communications fulfilling Gordon Moores 1965 prophecy to this effect. Optical phased arrays enable imaging, lidar, display, sensing, and holography. Advancements in fabrication technology has led to monolithic nanophotonic phased arrays, albeit without independent phase and amplitude control ability, integration with electronic circuitry, or including receive and transmit functions. We report the first monolithic optical phased array transceiver with independent control of amplitude and phase for each element using electronic circuitry that is tightly integrated with the nanophotonic components on one substrate using a commercial foundry CMOS SOI process. The 8 × 8 phased array chip includes thermo-optical tunable phase shifters and attenuators, nano-photonic antennas, and dedicated control electronics realized using CMOS transistors. The complex chip includes over 300 distinct optical components and over 74,000 distinct electrical components achieving the highest level of integration for any electronic-photonic system.

MAGNETOMETER

DOEpatents

Leavitt, M.A.

1958-11-18

A magnetometer ls described, partlcularly to a device which accurately indicates the polarity and intensity of a magnetlc field. The main feature of the invention is a unique probe construction in combinatlon wlth a magnetic fleld detector system. The probe comprises two coils connected in series opposition for energization with an a-c voltage. The voltage lnduced in a third coll on the probe, a pick-up coil, is distorted by the presence of an external field to produce even harmonic voltages. A controlled d-c current is passed through the energized coils to counter the dlstortlon and reduce tbe even harmonic content to a null. When the null point is reached, the d-c current is a measure of the external magnetic field strength, and the phase of the pickup coil voltage indicates tbe field polarlty.

Phased-array-fed antenna configuration study. Volume 1: Technology assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sorbello, R. M.; Zaghloul, A. I.; Lee, B. S.; Siddiqi, S.; Geller, B. D.; Gerson, H. I.; Srinivas, D. N.

1983-01-01

The status of the technologies for phased-array-fed dual reflector systems is reviewed. The different aspects of these technologies, including optical performances, phased array systems, problems encountered in phased array design, beamforming networks, MMIC design and its incorporation into waveguide systems, reflector antenna structures, and reflector deployment mechanisms are addressed.

MR coil sensitivity inhomogeneity correction for plaque characterization in carotid arteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salvado, Olivier; Hillenbrand, Claudia; Suri, Jasjit; Wilson, David L.

2004-05-01

We are involved in a comprehensive program to characterize atherosclerotic disease using multiple MR images having different contrast mechanisms (T1W, T2W, PDW, magnetization transfer, etc.) of human carotid and animal model arteries. We use specially designed intravascular and surface array coils that give high signal-to-noise but suffer from sensitivity inhomogeneity. With carotid surface coils, challenges include: (1) a steep bias field with an 80% change; (2) presence of nearby muscular structures lacking high frequency information to distinguish bias from anatomical features; (3) many confounding zero-valued voxels subject to fat suppression, blood flow cancellation, or air, which are not subject to coil sensitivity; and (4) substantial noise. Bias was corrected using a modification of the adaptive fuzzy c-mean method reported by Pham et al. (IEEE TMI, 18:738-752), whereby a bias field modeled as a mechanical membrane was iteratively improved until cluster means no longer changed. Because our images were noisy, we added a noise reduction filtering step between iterations and used about 5 classes. In a digital phantom having a bias field measured from our MR system, variations across an area comparable to a carotid artery were reduced from 50% to <5% with processing. Human carotid images were qualitatively improved and large regions of skeletal muscle were relatively flat. Other commonly applied techniques failed to segment the images or introduced strong edge artifacts. Current evaluations include comparisons to bias as measured by a body coil in human MR images.

From Complex B1 Mapping to Local SAR Estimation for Human Brain MR Imaging Using Multi-channel Transceiver Coil at 7T

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiaotong; Schmitter, Sebastian; Van de Moortel, Pierre-François; Liu, Jiaen

2014-01-01

Elevated Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) associated with increased main magnetic field strength remains as a major safety concern in ultra-high-field (UHF) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) applications. The calculation of local SAR requires the knowledge of the electric field induced by radiofrequency (RF) excitation, and the local electrical properties of tissues. Since electric field distribution cannot be directly mapped in conventional MR measurements, SAR estimation is usually performed using numerical model-based electromagnetic simulations which, however, are highly time consuming and cannot account for the specific anatomy and tissue properties of the subject undergoing a scan. In the present study, starting from the measurable RF magnetic fields (B1) in MRI, we conducted a series of mathematical deduction to estimate the local, voxel-wise and subject-specific SAR for each single coil element using a multi-channel transceiver array coil. We first evaluated the feasibility of this approach in numerical simulations including two different human head models. We further conducted experimental study in a physical phantom and in two human subjects at 7T using a multi-channel transceiver head coil. Accuracy of the results is discussed in the context of predicting local SAR in the human brain at UHF MRI using multi-channel RF transmission. PMID:23508259

The Plasmoid Thruster Experiment (PTX)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eskridge, R.; Martin, Adam; Lee, Michael; Smith, James; Koelfgen, Syri

2003-01-01

This viewgraph presentation describes the overall Plasma Thruster Experiment (PTX), it's purpose and design, compact toroid propulsion, advantages and requirements of a plasmoid thruster, the projected efficiency, theta-pinch formation, a simulation of the PTX Coil/Bank Circuit using SPICE, the test firing of the PTX Capacitor Bank, PTX diagnostics, the excluded flux array, thruster simulations using MOQUI, and future work on the PTX.

Inter and Intra Molecular Phase Separation Environment Effects on PI-PEO Block Copolymers for Batteries and Fuel Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Xue, Chen-Chen; Meador, Mary Ann B.; Eby, R. K.; Cheng, Stephen Z. D.; Ge, Jason J.; Cubon, Valerie A.

2002-01-01

Rod-coil molecules have been introduced as a novel type of block copolymers with unique microstructure due to their ability to self-assemble to various ordered morphologies on a nanometer length scale. These molecules, comprised two homo polymers joined together at one end, microphase separate into ordered, periodic arrays of spheres, cylinders in the bulk state and or solution. To get ordered structure in a reasonable scale, additional force field are applied, such as mechanical shearing, electric field and magnetic field. Recently, progress has made it a possible to develop a new class of polyimides (PI)-Polyethylene oxide (PEO) that are soluble in polar organic solvents. The solvent-soluble PI-PEO has a wide variety of applications in microelectronics, since these PI-PEO films exhibit a high degree of thermal and chemical stability. In this paper, we report the self-assembled ordered structure of PI-PEO molecules formed from concentrate solution.

Generating an AC amplitude magnetic flux density value up to 150 μT at a frequency up to 100 kHz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulvr, Michal; Polonský, Jakub

2017-05-01

AC magnetic field analyzers with a triaxial coil probe are widely used by health and safety professionals, in manufacturing, and in service industries. For traceable calibration of these analyzers, it is important to be able to generate a stable, homogeneous reference AC magnetic flux density (MFD). In this paper, the generating of AC amplitude MFD value of 150 μT by single-layer Helmholtz type solenoid, described in previous work, was expanded up to a frequency of 100 kHz using the effect of serial resonance. A programmable capacitor array has been developed with a range of adjustable values from 50 pF to 51225 pF. In addition, the multi-layer search coil with a nominal area turns value of 1.3m2, used for adjusting AC MFD in the solenoid, has been modified by a transimpedance amplifier for use in a wider frequency range than up to 3 kHz. The possibility of using the programmable capacitor array up to 150 kHz has also been tested. An AC amplitude MFD value of 150 μT can be generated with expanded uncertainty better than 0.6% up to 100 kHz.

A Smart Cage With Uniform Wireless Power Distribution in 3D for Enabling Long-Term Experiments With Freely Moving Animals.

PubMed

Mirbozorgi, S Abdollah; Bahrami, Hadi; Sawan, Mohamad; Gosselin, Benoit

2016-04-01

This paper presents a novel experimental chamber with uniform wireless power distribution in 3D for enabling long-term biomedical experiments with small freely moving animal subjects. The implemented power transmission chamber prototype is based on arrays of parallel resonators and multicoil inductive links, to form a novel and highly efficient wireless power transmission system. The power transmitter unit includes several identical resonators enclosed in a scalable array of overlapping square coils which are connected in parallel to provide uniform power distribution along x and y. Moreover, the proposed chamber uses two arrays of primary resonators, facing each other, and connected in parallel to achieve uniform power distribution along the z axis. Each surface includes 9 overlapped coils connected in parallel and implemented into two layers of FR4 printed circuit board. The chamber features a natural power localization mechanism, which simplifies its implementation and ease its operation by avoiding the need for active detection and control mechanisms. A single power surface based on the proposed approach can provide a power transfer efficiency (PTE) of 69% and a power delivered to the load (PDL) of 120 mW, for a separation distance of 4 cm, whereas the complete chamber prototype provides a uniform PTE of 59% and a PDL of 100 mW in 3D, everywhere inside the chamber with a size of 27×27×16 cm(3).

A 2x2 W-Band Reference Time-Shifted Phase-Locked Transmitter Array in 65nm CMOS Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tang, Adrian; Virbila, Gabriel; Hsiao, Frank; Wu, Hao; Murphy, David; Mehdi, Imran; Siegel, P. H.; Chang, M-C. Frank

2013-01-01

This paper presents a complete 2x2 phased array transmitter system operating at W-band (90-95 GHz) which employs a PLL reference time-shifting approach instead of using traditional mm-wave phase shifters. PLL reference shifting enables a phased array to be distributed over multiple chips without the need for coherent mm-wave signal distribution between chips. The proposed phased array transmitter system consumes 248 mW per array element when implemented in a 65 nm CMOS technology.

Interleaved EPI diffusion imaging using SPIRiT-based reconstruction with virtual coil compression.

PubMed

Dong, Zijing; Wang, Fuyixue; Ma, Xiaodong; Zhang, Zhe; Dai, Erpeng; Yuan, Chun; Guo, Hua

2018-03-01

To develop a novel diffusion imaging reconstruction framework based on iterative self-consistent parallel imaging reconstruction (SPIRiT) for multishot interleaved echo planar imaging (iEPI), with computation acceleration by virtual coil compression. As a general approach for autocalibrating parallel imaging, SPIRiT improves the performance of traditional generalized autocalibrating partially parallel acquisitions (GRAPPA) methods in that the formulation with self-consistency is better conditioned, suggesting SPIRiT to be a better candidate in k-space-based reconstruction. In this study, a general SPIRiT framework is adopted to incorporate both coil sensitivity and phase variation information as virtual coils and then is applied to 2D navigated iEPI diffusion imaging. To reduce the reconstruction time when using a large number of coils and shots, a novel shot-coil compression method is proposed for computation acceleration in Cartesian sampling. Simulations and in vivo experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. Compared with the conventional coil compression, the shot-coil compression achieved higher compression rates with reduced errors. The simulation and in vivo experiments demonstrate that the SPIRiT-based reconstruction outperformed the existing method, realigned GRAPPA, and provided superior images with reduced artifacts. The SPIRiT-based reconstruction with virtual coil compression is a reliable method for high-resolution iEPI diffusion imaging. Magn Reson Med 79:1525-1531, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Automatic correction of echo-planar imaging (EPI) ghosting artifacts in real-time interactive cardiac MRI using sensitivity encoding.

PubMed

Kim, Yoon-Chul; Nielsen, Jon-Fredrik; Nayak, Krishna S

2008-01-01

To develop a method that automatically corrects ghosting artifacts due to echo-misalignment in interleaved gradient-echo echo-planar imaging (EPI) in arbitrary oblique or double-oblique scan planes. An automatic ghosting correction technique was developed based on an alternating EPI acquisition and the phased-array ghost elimination (PAGE) reconstruction method. The direction of k-space traversal is alternated at every temporal frame, enabling lower temporal-resolution ghost-free coil sensitivity maps to be dynamically estimated. The proposed method was compared with conventional one-dimensional (1D) phase correction in axial, oblique, and double-oblique scan planes in phantom and cardiac in vivo studies. The proposed method was also used in conjunction with two-fold acceleration. The proposed method with nonaccelerated acquisition provided excellent suppression of ghosting artifacts in all scan planes, and was substantially more effective than conventional 1D phase correction in oblique and double-oblique scan planes. The feasibility of real-time reconstruction using the proposed technique was demonstrated in a scan protocol with 3.1-mm spatial and 60-msec temporal resolution. The proposed technique with nonaccelerated acquisition provides excellent ghost suppression in arbitrary scan orientations without a calibration scan, and can be useful for real-time interactive imaging, in which scan planes are frequently changed with arbitrary oblique orientations.

Microstrip Butler matrix design and realization for 7 T MRI.

PubMed

Yazdanbakhsh, Pedram; Solbach, Klaus

2011-07-01

This article presents the design and realization of 8 × 8 and 16 × 16 Butler matrices for 7 T MRI systems. With the focus on low insertion loss and high amplitude/phase accuracy, the microstrip line integration technology (microwave-integrated circuit) was chosen for the realization. Laminate material of high permittivity (ε(r) = 11) and large thickness (h = 3.2 mm) is shown to allow the best trade-off of circuit board size versus insertion loss, saving circuit area by extensive folding of branch-line coupler topology and meandering phase shifter and connecting strip lines and reducing mutual coupling of neighboring strip lines by shield structures between strip lines. With this approach, 8 × 8 Butler matrices were produced in single boards of 310 mm × 530 mm, whereas the 16 × 16 Butler matrices combined two submatrices of 8 × 8 with two smaller boards. Insertion loss was found at 0.73 and 1.1 dB for an 8 × 8 matrix and 16 × 16 matrix, respectively. Measured amplitude and phase errors are shown to represent highly pure mode excitation with unwanted modes suppressed by 40 and 35 dB, respectively. Both types of matrices were implemented with a 7 T MRI system and 8- and 16-element coil arrays for RF mode shimming experiments and operated successfully with 8 kW of RF power. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Single-shot magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging with partial parallel imaging.

PubMed

Posse, Stefan; Otazo, Ricardo; Tsai, Shang-Yueh; Yoshimoto, Akio Ernesto; Lin, Fa-Hsuan

2009-03-01

A magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) pulse sequence based on proton-echo-planar-spectroscopic-imaging (PEPSI) is introduced that measures two-dimensional metabolite maps in a single excitation. Echo-planar spatial-spectral encoding was combined with interleaved phase encoding and parallel imaging using SENSE to reconstruct absorption mode spectra. The symmetrical k-space trajectory compensates phase errors due to convolution of spatial and spectral encoding. Single-shot MRSI at short TE was evaluated in phantoms and in vivo on a 3-T whole-body scanner equipped with a 12-channel array coil. Four-step interleaved phase encoding and fourfold SENSE acceleration were used to encode a 16 x 16 spatial matrix with a 390-Hz spectral width. Comparison with conventional PEPSI and PEPSI with fourfold SENSE acceleration demonstrated comparable sensitivity per unit time when taking into account g-factor-related noise increases and differences in sampling efficiency. LCModel fitting enabled quantification of inositol, choline, creatine, and N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) in vivo with concentration values in the ranges measured with conventional PEPSI and SENSE-accelerated PEPSI. Cramer-Rao lower bounds were comparable to those obtained with conventional SENSE-accelerated PEPSI at the same voxel size and measurement time. This single-shot MRSI method is therefore suitable for applications that require high temporal resolution to monitor temporal dynamics or to reduce sensitivity to tissue movement.

A Study on Phase Changes of Heterogeneous Composite Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirasawa, Yoshio; Saito, Akio; Takegoshi, Eisyun

In this study, a phase change process in heterogeneous composite materials which consist of water and coiled copper wires as conductive solid is investigated by four kinds of typical calculation models : 1) model-1 in which the effective thermal conductivity of the composite material is used, 2) model-2 in which a fin metal acts for many conductive solids, 3) model-3 in which the effective thermal conductivities between nodes are estimated and three-dimensional calculation is performed, 4) model-4 proposed by authors in the previous paper in which effective thermal conductivity is not needed. Consequently, model-1 showed the phase change rate considerably lower than the experimental results. Model-2 gave the larger amount of the phase change rate. Model-3 agreed well with the experiment in the case of small coil diameter and relatively large Vd. Model-4 showed a very well agreement with the experiment in the range of this study.

Low-Cost Phased Array Antenna for Sounding Rockets, Missiles, and Expendable Launch Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mullinix, Daniel; Hall, Kenneth; Smith, Bruce; Corbin, Brian

2012-01-01

A low-cost beamformer phased array antenna has been developed for expendable launch vehicles, rockets, and missiles. It utilizes a conformal array antenna of ring or individual radiators (design varies depending on application) that is designed to be fed by the recently developed hybrid electrical/mechanical (vendor-supplied) phased array beamformer. The combination of these new array antennas and the hybrid beamformer results in a conformal phased array antenna that has significantly higher gain than traditional omni antennas, and costs an order of magnitude or more less than traditional phased array designs. Existing omnidirectional antennas for sounding rockets, missiles, and expendable launch vehicles (ELVs) do not have sufficient gain to support the required communication data rates via the space network. Missiles and smaller ELVs are often stabilized in flight by a fast (i.e. 4 Hz) roll rate. This fast roll rate, combined with vehicle attitude changes, greatly increases the complexity of the high-gain antenna beam-tracking problem. Phased arrays for larger ELVs with roll control are prohibitively expensive. Prior techniques involved a traditional fully electronic phased array solution, combined with highly complex and very fast inertial measurement unit phased array beamformers. The functional operation of this phased array is substantially different from traditional phased arrays in that it uses a hybrid electrical/mechanical beamformer that creates the relative time delays for steering the antenna beam via a small physical movement of variable delay lines. This movement is controlled via an innovative antenna control unit that accesses an internal measurement unit for vehicle attitude information, computes a beam-pointing angle to the target, then points the beam via a stepper motor controller. The stepper motor on the beamformer controls the beamformer variable delay lines that apply the appropriate time delays to the individual array elements to properly steer the beam. The array of phased ring radiators is unique in that it provides improved gain for a small rocket or missile that uses spin stabilization for stability. The antenna pattern created is symmetric about the roll axis (like an omnidirectional wraparound), and is thus capable of providing continuous coverage that is compatible with very fast spinning rockets. For larger ELVs with roll control, a linear array of elements can be used for the 1D scanned beamformer and phased array, or a 2D scanned beamformer can be used with an NxN element array.

Method of controlling switching of a multiphase inductor-converter bridge

DOEpatents

Kustom, Robert L.; Fuja, Raymond E.

1981-01-01

In an inductor-convertor circuit for transferring electrical energy between a storage coil and a load coil using a storage thyristor bridge, a load thyristor bridge, and a set of commutating capacitors, operation is improved by a method of changing the rate of delivery of energy in a given direction. The change in rate corresponds to a predetermined change in phase angle between the load bridge and the storage bridge and comprises changing the phase of the bridge by two steps, each equal to half the predetermined change and occurring 180.degree. apart. The method assures commutation and minimizes imbalances that lead otherwise to overvoltages.

MRI surface-coil pair with strong inductive coupling.

PubMed

Mett, Richard R; Sidabras, Jason W; Hyde, James S

2016-12-01

A novel inductively coupled coil pair was used to obtain magnetic resonance phantom images. Rationale for using such a structure is described in R. R. Mett et al. [Rev. Sci. Instrum. 87, 084703 (2016)]. The original rationale was to increase the Q-value of a small diameter surface coil in order to achieve dominant loading by the sample. A significant improvement in the vector reception field (VRF) is also seen. The coil assembly consists of a 3-turn 10 mm tall meta-metallic self-resonant spiral (SRS) of inner diameter 10.4 mm and outer diameter 15.1 mm and a single-loop equalization coil of 25 mm diameter and 2 mm tall. The low-frequency parallel mode was used in which the rf currents on each coil produce magnetic fields that add constructively. The SRS coil assembly was fabricated and data were collected using a tissue-equivalent 30% polyacrylamide phantom. The large inductive coupling of the coils produces phase-coherency of the rf currents and magnetic fields. Finite-element simulations indicate that the VRF of the coil pair is about 4.4 times larger than for a single-loop coil of 15 mm diameter. The mutual coupling between coils influences the current ratio between the coils, which in turn influences the VRF and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Data on a tissue-equivalent phantom at 9.4 T show a total SNR increase of 8.8 over the 15 mm loop averaged over a 25 mm depth and diameter. The experimental results are shown to be consistent with the magnetic resonance theory of the emf induced by spins in a coil, the theory of inductively coupled resonant circuits, and the superposition principle. The methods are general for magnetic resonance and other types of signal detection and can be used over a wide range of operating frequencies.

Communication: Polarizable polymer chain under external electric field in a dilute polymer solution.

PubMed

Budkov, Yu A; Kolesnikov, A L; Kiselev, M G

2015-11-28

We study the conformational behavior of polarizable polymer chain under an external homogeneous electric field within the Flory type self-consistent field theory. We consider the influence of electric field on the polymer coil as well as on the polymer globule. We show that when the polymer chain conformation is a coil, application of external electric field leads to its additional swelling. However, when the polymer conformation is a globule, a sufficiently strong field can induce a globule-coil transition. We show that such "field-induced" globule-coil transition at the sufficiently small monomer polarizabilities goes quite smoothly. On the contrary, when the monomer polarizability exceeds a certain threshold value, the globule-coil transition occurs as a dramatic expansion in the regime of first-order phase transition. The developed theoretical model can be applied to predicting polymer globule density change under external electric field in order to provide more efficient processes of polymer functionalization, such as sorption, dyeing, and chemical modification.

Dimensional changes of Nb 3Sn Rutherford cables during heat treatment

DOE PAGES

Rochepault, E.; Ferracin, P.; Ambrosio, G.; ...

2016-06-01

In high field magnet applications, Nb 3Sn coils undergo a heat treatment step after winding. During this stage, coils radially expand and longitudinally contract due to the Nb 3Sn phase change. In order to prevent residual strain from altering superconducting performances, the tooling must provide the adequate space for these dimensional changes. The aim of this paper is to understand the behavior of cable dimensions during heat treatment and to provide estimates of the space to be accommodated in the tooling for coil expansion and contraction. In addition, this paper summarizes measurements of dimensional changes on strands, single Rutherford cables,more » cable stacks, and coils performed between 2013 and 2015. These samples and coils have been performed within a collaboration between CERN and the U.S. LHC Accelerator Research Program to develop Nb 3Sn quadrupole magnets for the HiLumi LHC. The results are also compared with other high field magnet projects.« less

The SENSE-Isomorphism Theoretical Image Voxel Estimation (SENSE-ITIVE) Model for Reconstruction and Observing Statistical Properties of Reconstruction Operators

PubMed Central

Bruce, Iain P.; Karaman, M. Muge; Rowe, Daniel B.

2012-01-01

The acquisition of sub-sampled data from an array of receiver coils has become a common means of reducing data acquisition time in MRI. Of the various techniques used in parallel MRI, SENSitivity Encoding (SENSE) is one of the most common, making use of a complex-valued weighted least squares estimation to unfold the aliased images. It was recently shown in Bruce et al. [Magn. Reson. Imag. 29(2011):1267–1287] that when the SENSE model is represented in terms of a real-valued isomorphism, it assumes a skew-symmetric covariance between receiver coils, as well as an identity covariance structure between voxels. In this manuscript, we show that not only is the skew-symmetric coil covariance unlike that of real data, but the estimated covariance structure between voxels over a time series of experimental data is not an identity matrix. As such, a new model, entitled SENSE-ITIVE, is described with both revised coil and voxel covariance structures. Both the SENSE and SENSE-ITIVE models are represented in terms of real-valued isomorphisms, allowing for a statistical analysis of reconstructed voxel means, variances, and correlations resulting from the use of different coil and voxel covariance structures used in the reconstruction processes to be conducted. It is shown through both theoretical and experimental illustrations that the miss-specification of the coil and voxel covariance structures in the SENSE model results in a lower standard deviation in each voxel of the reconstructed images, and thus an artificial increase in SNR, compared to the standard deviation and SNR of the SENSE-ITIVE model where both the coil and voxel covariances are appropriately accounted for. It is also shown that there are differences in the correlations induced by the reconstruction operations of both models, and consequently there are differences in the correlations estimated throughout the course of reconstructed time series. These differences in correlations could result in meaningful differences in interpretation of results. PMID:22617147

On the (Frequency) Modulation of Coupled Oscillator Arrays in Phased Array Beam Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pogorzelski, R.; Acorn, J.; Zawadzki, M.

2000-01-01

It has been shown that arrays of voltage controlled oscillators coupled to nearest neighbors can be used to produce useful aperture phase distributions for phased array antennas. However, placing information of the transmitted signal requires that the oscillations be modulated.

Torque control for electric motors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bernard, C. A.

1980-01-01

Method for adjusting electric-motor torque output to accomodate various loads utilizes phase-lock loop to control relay connected to starting circuit. As load is imposed, motor slows down, and phase lock is lost. Phase-lock signal triggers relay to power starting coil and generate additional torque. Once phase lock is recoverd, relay restores starting circuit to its normal operating mode.

Phased array antenna matching: Simulation and optimization of a planar phased array of circular waveguide elements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dudgeon, J. E.

1972-01-01

A computerized simulation of a planar phased array of circular waveguide elements is reported using mutual coupling and wide angle impedance matching in phased arrays. Special emphasis is given to circular polarization. The aforementioned computer program has as variable inputs: frequency, polarization, grid geometry, element size, dielectric waveguide fill, dielectric plugs in the waveguide for impedance matching, and dielectric sheets covering the array surface for the purpose of wide angle impedance matching. Parameter combinations are found which produce reflection peaks interior to grating lobes, while dielectric cover sheets are successfully employed to extend the usable scan range of a phased array. The most exciting results came from the application of computer aided optimization techniques to the design of this type of array.

Manipulation of Liquids Using Phased Array Generation of Acoustic Radiation Pressure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oeftering, Richard C. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

A phased array of piezoelectric transducers is used to control and manipulate contained as well as uncontained fluids in space and earth applications. The transducers in the phased array are individually activated while being commonly controlled to produce acoustic radiation pressure and acoustic streaming. The phased array is activated to produce a single pulse, a pulse burst or a continuous pulse to agitate, segregate or manipulate liquids and gases. The phased array generated acoustic radiation pressure is also useful in manipulating a drop, a bubble or other object immersed in a liquid. The transducers can be arranged in any number of layouts including linear single or multi- dimensional, space curved and annular arrays. The individual transducers in the array are activated by a controller, preferably driven by a computer.

Improved Tubulars for Better Economics in Deep Gas Well Drilling Using Microwave Technology

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dinesh Agrawal

2006-09-30

The main objective of the entire research program has been to improve the rate-of-penetration in deep hostile environments by improving the life cycle and performance of coiled-tubing, an important component of a deep well drilling system for oil and gas exploration, by utilizing the latest developments in the microwave materials technology. Based on the results of the Phase I and insurmountable difficulties faced in the extrusion and de-waxing processes, the approach of achieving the goals of the program was slightly changed in the Phase II in which an approach of microwave sintering combined with Cold Isostatic Press (CIP) and joiningmore » (by induction or microwave) has been adopted. This process can be developed into a semicontinuous sintering process if the CIP can produce parts fast enough to match the microwave sintering rates. The main objective of the Phase II research program is to demonstrate the potential to economically manufacture microwave processed coiled tubing with improved performance for extended useful life under hostile coiled tubing drilling conditions. After the completion of the Phase II, it is concluded that scale up and sintering of a thin wall common O.D. size tubing that is widely used in the market is still to be proved and further experimentation and refinement of the sintering process is needed in Phase III. Actual manufacturing capability of microwave sintered, industrial quality, full length tubing will most likely require several million dollars of investment.« less

Improved Tubulars for Better Economics in Deep Gas Well Drilling using Microwave Technology

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dinesh Agrawal; Paul Gigl; Mark Hunt

2007-07-31

The main objective of the entire research program has been to improve the rate-of-penetration in deep hostile environments by improving the life cycle and performance of coiled-tubing, an important component of a deep well drilling system for oil and gas exploration, by utilizing the latest developments in the microwave materials technology. Based on the results of the Phase I and insurmountable difficulties faced in the extrusion and de-waxing processes, the approach of achieving the goals of the program was slightly changed in the Phase II in which an approach of microwave sintering combined with Cold Isostatic Press (CIP) and joiningmore » (by induction or microwave) has been adopted. This process can be developed into a semicontinuous sintering process if the CIP can produce parts fast enough to match the microwave sintering rates. The main objective of the Phase II research program is to demonstrate the potential to economically manufacture microwave processed coiled tubing with improved performance for extended useful life under hostile coiled tubing drilling conditions. After the completion of the Phase II, it is concluded that scale up and sintering of a thin wall common O.D. size tubing that is widely used in the market is still to be proved and further experimentation and refinement of the sintering process is needed in Phase III. Actual manufacturing capability of microwave sintered, industrial quality, full length tubing will most likely require several million dollars of investment.« less

Progress and prospects of silicon-based design for optical phased array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Weiwei; Peng, Chao; Chang-Hasnain, Connie

2016-03-01

The high-speed, high-efficient, compact phase modulator array is indispensable in the Optical-phased array (OPA) which has been considered as a promising technology for realizing flexible and efficient beam steering. In our research, two methods are presented to utilize high-contrast grating (HCG) as high-efficient phase modulator. One is that HCG possesses high-Q resonances that origins from the cancellation of leaky waves. As a result, sharp resonance peaks appear on the reflection spectrum thus HCGs can be utilized as efficient phase shifters. Another is that low-Q mode HCG is utilized as ultra-lightweight mirror. With MEMS technology, small HCG displacement (~50 nm) leads to large phase change (~1.7π). Effective beam steering is achieved in Connie Chang-Hasnian's group. On the other hand, we theoretically and experimentally investigate the system design for silicon-based optical phased array, including the star coupler, phased array, emission elements and far-field patterns. Further, the non-uniform optical phased array is presented.

Apparatus and method for critical current measurements

DOEpatents

Martin, Joe A.; Dye, Robert C.

1992-01-01

An apparatus for the measurement of the critical current of a superconductive sample, e.g., a clad superconductive sample, the apparatus including a conductive coil, a means for maintaining the coil in proximity to a superconductive sample, an electrical connection means for passing a low amplitude alternating current through the coil, a cooling means for maintaining the superconductive sample at a preselected temperature, a means for passing a current through the superconductive sample, and, a means for monitoring reactance of the coil, is disclosed, together with a process of measuring the critical current of a superconductive material, e.g., a clad superconductive material, by placing a superconductive material into the vicinity of the conductive coil of such an apparatus, cooling the superconductive material to a preselected temperature, passing a low amplitude alternating current through the coil, the alternating current capable of generating a magnetic field sufficient to penetrate, e.g., any cladding, and to induce eddy currents in the superconductive material, passing a steadily increasing current through the superconductive material, the current characterized as having a different frequency than the alternating current, and, monitoring the reactance of the coil with a phase sensitive detector as the current passed through the superconductive material is steadily increased whereby critical current of the superconductive material can be observed as the point whereat a component of impedance deviates.

Fault current limiter

DOEpatents

Darmann, Francis Anthony

2013-10-08

A fault current limiter (FCL) includes a series of high permeability posts for collectively define a core for the FCL. A DC coil, for the purposes of saturating a portion of the high permeability posts, surrounds the complete structure outside of an enclosure in the form of a vessel. The vessel contains a dielectric insulation medium. AC coils, for transporting AC current, are wound on insulating formers and electrically interconnected to each other in a manner such that the senses of the magnetic field produced by each AC coil in the corresponding high permeability core are opposing. There are insulation barriers between phases to improve dielectric withstand properties of the dielectric medium.

Physical Modeling of the Polyfrequency Filter-Compensating Device Based on the Capacitor-Coil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butyrin, P. A.; Gusev, G. G.; Mikheev, D. V.; Shakirzianov, F. N.

2017-12-01

The paper presents the results of physical modeling and experimental study of the frequency characteristics of the polyfrequency filter-compensating device (PFCD) based on a capacitor-coil. The amplitude- frequency and phase-frequency characteristics of the physical PFCD model were constructed and its equivalent parameters were identified. The feasibility of a PFCD in the form of a single technical device with high technical and economic characteristics was experimentally proven. In the paper, recommendations for practical applications of the capacitor-coil-based PFCD are made and the advantages of the device over known standard passive filter-compensating devices are evaluated.

S-band antenna phased array communications system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delzer, D. R.; Chapman, J. E.; Griffin, R. A.

1975-01-01

The development of an S-band antenna phased array for spacecraft to spacecraft communication is discussed. The system requirements, antenna array subsystem design, and hardware implementation are examined. It is stated that the phased array approach offers the greatest simplicity and lowest cost. The objectives of the development contract are defined as: (1) design of a medium gain active phased array S-band communications antenna, (2) development and test of a model of a seven element planar array of radiating elements mounted in the appropriate cavity matrix, and (3) development and test of a breadboard transmit/receive microelectronics module.

Ultrasonic phased array controller for hyperthermia applications.

PubMed

Benkeser, P J; Pao, T L; Yoon, Y J

1991-01-01

Multiple and mechanically scanned ultrasound transducer systems have demonstrated the efficacy of using ultrasound to produce deep localized hyperthermia. The use of ultrasonic phased arrays has been proposed as an alternative to these systems. A phased array offers a more flexible approach to heating tumours in that the size, shape, and position of its focal region can be altered during the course of treatment in order to achieve the desired temperature distribution. This added flexibility comes at the cost of increased complexity of the hardware necessary to drive the transducer because each element requires its own amplifer with both phase and amplitude control. In order for phased arrays with large numbers of elements to be feasible for hyperthermia applications, the complexity of this circuitry must be minimized. This paper describes a circuit design which simplifies the electronics required to control a phased array transducer system for hyperthermia applications. The design is capable of controlling virtually any type of phased array transducer operating at frequencies less than 2 MHz. The system performance was verified through beam profile measurements using a 48-element tapered phased array transducer.

Integrated optical phased arrays for quasi-Bessel-beam generation.

PubMed

Notaros, Jelena; Poulton, Christopher V; Byrd, Matthew J; Raval, Manan; Watts, Michael R

2017-09-01

Integrated optical phased arrays for generating quasi-Bessel beams are proposed and experimentally demonstrated in a CMOS-compatible platform. Owing to their elongated central beams, Bessel beams have applications in a range of fields, including multiparticle trapping and laser lithography. In this Letter, continuous Bessel theory is manipulated to formulate the phase and amplitude conditions necessary for generating free-space-propagating Bessel-Gauss beams using on-chip optical phased arrays. Discussion of the effects of select phased array parameters on the generated beam's figures of merit is included. A one-dimensional splitter-tree-based phased array architecture is modified to enable arbitrary passive control of the array's element phase and amplitude distributions. This architecture is used to experimentally demonstrate on-chip quasi-Bessel-beam generation with a ∼14  mm Bessel length and ∼30  μm power full width at half maximum.

Parallel imaging of knee cartilage at 3 Tesla.

PubMed

Zuo, Jin; Li, Xiaojuan; Banerjee, Suchandrima; Han, Eric; Majumdar, Sharmila

2007-10-01

To evaluate the feasibility and reproducibility of quantitative cartilage imaging with parallel imaging at 3T and to determine the impact of the acceleration factor (AF) on morphological and relaxation measurements. An eight-channel phased-array knee coil was employed for conventional and parallel imaging on a 3T scanner. The imaging protocol consisted of a T2-weighted fast spin echo (FSE), a 3D-spoiled gradient echo (SPGR), a custom 3D-SPGR T1rho, and a 3D-SPGR T2 sequence. Parallel imaging was performed with an array spatial sensitivity technique (ASSET). The left knees of six healthy volunteers were scanned with both conventional and parallel imaging (AF = 2). Morphological parameters and relaxation maps from parallel imaging methods (AF = 2) showed comparable results with conventional method. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of the two methods for cartilage volume, mean cartilage thickness, T1rho, and T2 were 0.999, 0.977, 0.964, and 0.969, respectively, while demonstrating excellent reproducibility. No significant measurement differences were found when AF reached 3 despite the low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The study demonstrated that parallel imaging can be applied to current knee cartilage quantification at AF = 2 without degrading measurement accuracy with good reproducibility while effectively reducing scan time. Shorter imaging times can be achieved with higher AF at the cost of SNR. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Magnetic field controlled floating-zone single crystal growth of intermetallic compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermann, R.; Gerbeth, G.; Priede, J.

2013-03-01

Radio-frequency (RF) floating zone single crystal growth is an important technique for the preparation of single bulk crystals. The advantage of the floating-zone method is the crucible-free growth of single crystals of reactive materials with high melting points. The strong heat diffusion on the surface, as well as the melt convection in the molten zone due to induction heating, often leads to an undesired solid-liquid interface geometry with a concave (towards the solid phase) outer rim. These concave parts aggravate the single crystal growth over the full cross-section. A two-phase stirrer was developed at IFW Dresden in order to avoid the problems connected with these concave parts. It acts as a magnetic field pump and changes the typical double vortex structure to a single roll structure, thus pushing hot melt into the regions where the concave parts may arise. The current in the secondary coil is induced by the primary coil, and the capacitor and the resistance of the secondary circuit are adjusted to get a stable 90 degree phase-shift between the coil currents. Single crystal growth of industrial relevant RuAl and TiAl intermetallic compounds was performed based on the material parameters and using the adjusted two-phase stirrer. Very recently, the magnetic system was applied to the crystal growth of biocompatible TiNb alloys and antiferromagnetic Heusler MnSi compounds.

A new method for detecting cerebral hemorrhage in rabbits by magnetic inductive phase shift.

PubMed

Jin, Gui; Sun, Jian; Qin, Mingxin; Tang, Qinghua; Xu, Lin; Ning, Xu; Xu, Jia; Pu, Xianjie; Chen, Mingsheng

2014-02-15

Cerebral hemorrhage, which is an important clinical problem, is often monitored and studied using expensive devices, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) that are unavailable in economically underdeveloped regions. Magnetic induction tomography (MIT) is a new type of non-contact, non-invasive, and low-cost detection technology, and exhibits prospects for wide application, especially for the detection of brain diseases. However, the previous studies on MIT have focused on laboratory models and rarely on in vivo applications because the induced signals produced by biological tissues are notably weak. Based on the symmetry between the two brain hemispheres and the fact that a local brain hemorrhage will not affect the contra-lateral hemisphere, a symmetric cancellation-type sensor detection system, which is characterized by one excitation coil and two receiving coils, was designed to improve the detection sensitivity of MIT. This method was subsequently used to detect the occurrence of cerebral hematomas in rabbits. The average phase drift induced by a 3-ml injection of autologous blood was 1.885°, which is a fivefold improvement compared with the traditional single excitation coil and single receiving coil method. The results indicate that this system has high sensitivity and anti-interference ability and high practical value. © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V.

Design and optimization of voice coil actuator for six degree of freedom active vibration isolation system using Halbach magnet array.

PubMed

Kim, MyeongHyeon; Kim, Hyunchang; Gweon, Dae-Gab

2012-10-01

This paper describes the design, modeling, optimization, and validation of an active vibration isolation system using a voice coil motor. The active vibration isolating method was constructed with a passive isolator and an active isolator. A spring was used for passive isolating; an actuator was used for active isolating. The proposed active vibration isolation system (AVIS) can isolate disturbances for many kinds of instruments. Until now, developed AVIS were able to isolate a six degree-of-freedom disturbance effectively. This paper proposes the realization of such a six degree-of-freedom active vibration isolation system that can work as a bench top device for precision measuring machines such as atomic force microscope, scanning probe microscope, etc.

Tensor Invariant Processing for Munitions/Clutter Classification

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-11-01

Report," U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Report NRL/MR/ 6110 --12-9401, April 2012. 5. ESTCP Live Site Demonstrations, Former Camp Beale, Marysville, CA ...currently valid OMB control number. 1. REPORT DATE NOV 2013 2 . REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED 00-00-2013 to 00-00-2013 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE...inversion............................................................. 4 Figure 2 . Multi-coil arrays exciting target with different primary field directions

Reconfigurable Wave Velocity Transmission Lines for Phased Arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Host, Nick; Chen, Chi-Chih; Volakis, John L.; Miranda, Felix

2013-01-01

Phased array antennas showcase many advantages over mechanically steered systems. However, they are also more complex, heavy and most importantly costly. This presentation paper presents a concept which overcomes these detrimental attributes by eliminating all of the phase array backend (including phase shifters). Instead, a wave velocity reconfigurable transmission line is used in a series fed array arrangement to allow phase shifting with one small (100mil) mechanical motion. Different configurations of the reconfigurable wave velocity transmission line are discussed and simulated and experimental results are presented.

Flat-Top Sector Beams Using Only Array Element Phase Weighting: A Metaheuristic Optimization Approach

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-10

IrwIn D. OlIn Flat-Top Sector Beams Using Only Array Element Phase Weighting: A Metaheuristic Optimization Approach Sotera Defense Solutions, Inc...2012 Formal Report Flat-Top Sector Beams Using Only Array Element Phase Weighting: A Metaheuristic Optimization Approach Irwin D. Olin* Naval...Manuscript approved June 30, 2012. 1 FLAT-TOP SECTOR BEAMS USING ONLY ARRAY ELEMENT PHASE WEIGHTING: A METAHEURISTIC