NeuRA's imaging capabilities have taken a significant leap forward with the implementation of cutting-edge AI reconstruction technology.
Thanks to the implementation of SmartSpeed Precise, a next-generation dual-AI reconstruction technology, NeuRA Imaging can now drastically enhance the quality and efficiency of MRI scans.
"This scanner is one of the first in Australia to have this software package. We are working with Philips to develop it further and are looking forward to the next upgrade which will further enhance our ability to explore the brain," said Director of NeuRA Imaging, Professor Lindy Rae.
The upgrade from Philips Imaging enables researchers at NeuRA to achieve 0.27 mm isotropic structural brain scans in under 13 minutes, a level of microscopic detail typically seen with incredibly advanced MRI machines or through multi-hour, multi-session imaging.
"It means we can use our scanner to make detailed maps of the brain, both functional and structural - for example to underpin the projects mapping hippocampal and amygdalal connections in the elderly. It also means faster scanning and the ability to scan groups of participants who have difficulty remaining still, such as those with cognitive or movement disorders. They do not have to go into a much larger, less accessible and more scary high field scanner," said Professor Rae.
Minimising the time it takes to scan and the ease of access for participants will make meaningful differences not just to the participants but to the researchers, meaning more room and opportunities for additional participants in studies, more time for research groups to use the equipment and in turn, the potential for new discoveries.