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Selection of Optimal Pulse Sequences for fMRI

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fMRI Techniques and Protocols

Part of the book series: Neuromethods ((NM,volume 41))

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Summary

In this chapter, we discuss technical considerations regarding pulse sequence selection and sequence parameter selection that can affect fMRI studies. The major focus is on optimizing MRI data acquisitions for blood oxygen level-dependent signal detection. Specific recommendations are made for generic 1.5-T and 3.0-T MRI scanners.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    This is sometimes shortened to gradient-echo (GE).

  2. 2.

    The flip angle can also affect the contrast of the generated images, but for simplicity, we focus here on the more intuitive parameters TE and TR.

  3. 3.

    Up to the limits of the gradient hardware and not without various drawbacks.

  4. 4.

    Eddy currents are currents induced in gradient coils and other scanner components from the rapidly changing fields generated by the gradient coils.

  5. 5.

    In addition, a mixed mode EPI has been used in the literature known as asymmetric spin echo (ASE). This is a SE EPI with the acquisition window shifted to be centered on a time point early on in the SE evolution. The result is an acquisition that has, in a sense, adjustable sensitivity to capillary and venous signal.

  6. 6.

    There are, of course, other parameters that can affect this, such as gradient slew rate, partial Fourier, and/or field-of-view acquisition, etc.

  7. 7.

    More accurately, retrospective motion correction techniques will be more effective.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Imaging Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA

    Mark J. Lowe & Erik B. Beall

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  1. Mark J. Lowe
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Correspondence to Mark J. Lowe .

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  1. Ospedale San Raffaele, Università Milano-Bicocca, Via Olgettina 60, Milano, 20132, Italy

    Massimo Filippi

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Lowe, M.J., Beall, E.B. (2009). Selection of Optimal Pulse Sequences for fMRI. In: Filippi, M. (eds) fMRI Techniques and Protocols. Neuromethods, vol 41. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60327-919-2_3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60327-919-2_3

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