MRI dynamic range and its compatibility with signal transmission media

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.     

多通道磁共振成像仪控制台数据传输模块设计

当前临床高场磁共振成像（MRI）系统要求成像仪控制台支持16个甚至32个接收通道,可以频繁和高速地进行数据传输并支持快速成像．基于此要求,本文研发了一个基于PowerPC处理器的数据传输模块,将其集成于自行研发的MRI成像仪控制台中,用于成像过程中控制台与计算机之间数据的高速传输．该模块以飞思卡尔公司的高性能PowerPC处理器—MPC8270为核心,运行嵌入式Linux操作系统．处理器与用户计算机之间通过百兆以太网连接,使用局部总线连接控制台的序列运行模块和数据采集模块（数量可扩展）．处理器响应数据采集模块发来的中断请求以快速读取和上传数据．本设计通过驱动程序的设计以保障响应的速度与可靠性．成像实验表明此设计方案能够满足多个接收通道数据快速获取与传输的需求．     

光缆弯曲对激光能量传输效率的影响

研究了激光火工品系统中光缆弯曲对激光能量传输效率的影响.对7种不同规格光缆在弯曲半径R为2.5~175 mm范围内的弯曲传输特性进行了试验研究.结果表明,R/2a＜50 时,透光量已开始下降;R/2a≈20 时,激光能量传输效率明显下降.根据实验结果,通过数据拟合处理得出了7种规格光缆弯曲损耗的半经验公式,该公式可以直接用于激光火工品系统光缆的传输设计.     

Time allocation improvement method for UAV-based wireless energy transfer cooperative mobile edge

Wireless power transfer (WPT) and mobile edge computing (MEC) are two advanced technologies that could improve the computing power and range of mobile devices. However, by integrating the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) into wireless powered MEC systems, wireless energy transfer will be susceptible to the “double near–far” effect. Therefore, in order to further overcome the influence of the “double near–far” effect, this paper considers the optimization of time slot allocation for UAV-assisted wireless powered cooperative MEC system, which includes an access point (UAV) and two mobile devices. The purpose of the study is to minimize the total transmission energy of the UAV while satisfying the delay and size of the computational tasks, so this paper proposed a 2:1:1 time-slot optimization allocation method. The method exploits the synergy of users so that the mobile device which is closer to the UAV acts as an offloading relay, by combining power and time slot optimization to minimize the total energy consumption of the UAV. Compared with the equal time slot scheme before the improvement, this method can not only utilize the wireless transmission energy to charge the mobile device for more time in the first period, but also can save the time of data transmission of the closer device in the third period, and it can enhance the rate of data transmission of the mobile devices at the same time. The results show that the task capacity of the system computed will be increased compared to the original scheme; the total transmission rate of the whole system is also improved by the same order of magnitude. The simulation results verify the effectiveness and reliability of the algorithm of the paper, and the comprehensive performance of the system can be maximized by the flexible offloading algorithm.     

基于模块计算机的千兆网磁共振谱仪控制接口

提出了一个基于模块计算机的磁共振谱仪的控制接口,它建立了核磁共振成像谱仪与上位计算机之间的通信,实现了控制谱仪、上传和下载、数据处理等功能,具备较高的传输速度,以及较好的实时性. 该接口以硬件模块的方式集成到谱仪上,通过千兆和百兆以太网连接上位机,接收下传至谱仪的序列;用中断机制和直接内存存取(DMA)方式实现与谱仪的数据传输,并将处理采集到的回波数据并上传到上位机. 控制接口的设计采用模块计算机Computer-On-Module(COM)的设计思路,以高性能的处理器为嵌入式平台,在Linux操作系统下开发驱动程序和应用程序. 实验证明,该模块具有数据处理速度快、传输速率高,成本低,体积紧凑,扩展性强等特点,是实现磁共振谱仪高性能的控制接口的理想方案.     

声纳湿端数据远传DWDM光电交换模块设计

声纳的应用极其广泛,海洋渔业以及军事应用使得声纳技术得到了大力发展。声纳湿端数据传输的可靠性、实时性是声纳系统性能得到保障的前提。为此设计一用于声纳湿端数据远传的DWDM光电交换模块。在该模块中,使用以太网交换芯片和两个DWDM光模块对数据进行多路转发并实现光通路的冗余备份,提升了系统可靠性的同时使网络拓扑更为灵活。由于DWDM光模块可将电信号转换为波长可选定的光信号,故通过若干该模块协同使用,可实现多路光信号复用即同时传输多条声纳水下阵缆的数据。经实际开发与测试,该模块以太网业务性能指标符合设计需求,且该模块已在某声纳工程项目中得到了应用,并可为其他领域数据远传工程应用提供设计参考。     

40 Gbit/s per wavelength channel in WDM-RoF-PON with polarization multiplexing and CSRZ-QDPSK modulation

In this paper, we design a WDM-ROF-PON based on polarization multiplexing (PM) and CSRZ-QDPSK, which can achieve wire-line and wireless access synchronously. Using PM and QDPSK modulation, the system improves bandwidth utilization. With the CSRZ-QDPSK modulation, the wireless access in ONU can save RF source and the frequency of radio carrier can be controlled by OLT. The networking has the credible transmission property, including wireless access and fiber transmission. The networking also has excellent covering range.     

一种便携集成式伴随保障系统

为解决弱测试性武器装备的外场级快速保障问题,提出并研发了一种便携集成式伴随保障系统,该系统由平板电脑、数据采集机箱、信号调理单元以及测试电缆组成,兼备IETM、远程数据终端、测试维修设备等多种功能。硬件部分的平板电脑具有IETM的完整功能,可与装备通信系统实现无缝链接;数据采集机箱与信号调理单元之间采用卡具连接,便于功能拓展,与平板电脑无线连接后,应用诊断软件能够实现典型装备的系统级故障诊断。软件部分基于Lab windows、Visio VBA和Access数据库联合开发,重点解决了基于顶层故障现象智能推理、故障树自动生成、判断节点自动检测等功能。该系统经过试验验证,能够准确调用软件各功能模块,能够完成装备系统级故障诊断以及与指控通信系统之间的数据传输。     

Microtesla MRI of the human brain combined with MEG

One of the challenges in functional brain imaging is integration of complementary imaging modalities, such as magnetoencephalography (MEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). MEG, which uses highly sensitive superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) to directly measure magnetic fields of neuronal currents, cannot be combined with conventional high-field MRI in a single instrument. Indirect matching of MEG and MRI data leads to significant co-registration errors. A recently proposed imaging method--SQUID-based microtesla MRI--can be naturally combined with MEG in the same system to directly provide structural maps for MEG-localized sources. It enables easy and accurate integration of MEG and MRI/fMRI, because microtesla MR images can be precisely matched to structural images provided by high-field MRI and other techniques. Here we report the first images of the human brain by microtesla MRI, together with auditory MEG (functional) data, recorded using the same seven-channel SQUID system during the same imaging session. The images were acquired at 46 microT measurement field with pre-polarization at 30 mT. We also estimated transverse relaxation times for different tissues at microtesla fields. Our results demonstrate feasibility and potential of human brain imaging by microtesla MRI. They also show that two new types of imaging equipment--low-cost systems for anatomical MRI of the human brain at microtesla fields, and more advanced instruments for combined functional (MEG) and structural (microtesla MRI) brain imaging--are practical.     

基于单片FPGA的多通道磁共振成像接收模块

提出了一种基于FPGA的多通道磁共振成像接收模块,能对多个独立通道的磁共振信号进行直接采样、数字下变频,以及数据流控制,并对其进行了成像实验. 设计中采用Xilinx公司的系统级DSP开发工具--System Generator对FPGA内部所有功能进行建模、仿真并生成相应的硬件描述语言. 模块的采样速率为80MSPS,能灵活实现1 kHz~1 MHz范围的可变接收带宽,适用于1 T以下的磁共振成像系统;在单片FPGA内完成1~4个通道采样信号的数字正交解调,抽取滤波和数据流的处理,并可扩展至8通道. 实验证明模块具有体积小,集成度高,可重构性强和成本低等特点,为磁共振成像谱仪的多通道接收系统提供了一种高性能的数字化解决方案.     

便携式数据采集控制系统的设计与实现

在狭小空间或是恶劣环境下进行数据采集,传统的数据采集设备占用空间大、传输速率慢,不方便携带。通过分析这些缺点,设计了一种基于WiFi无线网络技术的便携式的无线数据采集控制系统。整个系统包括数据采集单元、数据传输单元和数据控制单元三大部分。该数据采集控制系统能够在WiFi网络覆盖区域内,以手持Android小型终端为控制终端,以无线网络为传输通道,实时控制数据采集卡,并读取采集数据,即时数据可帮助用户更加可靠的分析实际情况,具有实际应用价值。     

Perfusion MR imaging and proton MR spectroscopic imaging in differentiating necrotizing cerebritis from glioblastoma multiforme

We describe a lesion with the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of a glioblastoma mutiforme and demonstrate how perfusion MRI and proton MR spectroscopic imaging can be used to differentiate necrotizing cerebritis from what appeared to be a high-grade glioma. A 43-year-old woman presented to her physician complaining of progressive visual disturbance and headache for several weeks. Conventional MRI demonstrated a parietal peripherally enhancing mass with central necrosis and moderate to severe surrounding T2 hyperintensity, suggesting an infiltrating high-grade glioma. However, advanced imaging, including dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI (DSC MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI), suggested a nonneoplastic lesion. The DSC MRI data demonstrated no hyperperfusion within the lesion and surrounding T2 signal abnormality, and the MRSI data showed overall decrease in metabolites in this region, except for lactate. Because of the aggressive appearance to the lesion and the patients' worsening symptoms, a biopsy was performed. The pathologic diagnosis was necrotizing cerebritis. After the commencement of steroid therapy, imaging findings and patient symptoms improved. This report will review the utility of advanced imaging for differentiating inflammatory from neoplastic appearing lesions on conventional imaging.     

Continuous-wave magnetic resonance imaging of short T(2) materials

There is growing interest in the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine solid materials where the restricted motion of the probed spins leads to broad lines and short T(2) values, rendering many interesting systems invisible to conventional 2DFT pulsed imaging methods. In EPR T(2) seldom exceeds 0.1 mus and continuous-wave methods are adopted for spectroscopy and imaging. In this paper we demonstrate the use of continuous-wave MRI to obtain 2-dimensional images of short T(2) samples. The prototype system can image samples up to 50 mm in diameter by 60 mm long and has been used to image polymers and water penetration in porous media. Typical acquisition times range between 10 and 40 min. Resolution of 1 to 2 mm has been achieved for samples with T(2) values ranging from 38 to 750 mus. There is the possibility of producing image contrast that is determined by the material properties of the sample.     

Experimental studies of using wireless energy transmission for powering embedded sensor nodes

A major challenge impeding the deployment of wireless sensor networks for structural health monitoring (SHM) is developing a means to supply power to the sensor nodes in an efficient manner. In this paper, we explore possible solutions to this challenge by using a mobile-host based wireless energy transmission system to provide both power and data interrogation commands to sensor nodes. The mobile host features the capability of wirelessly transmitting energy to sensor nodes on an as-needed basis. In addition, it serves as a central data repository and processing center for the data collected from the sensing network. The wirelessly transmitted microwave energy is captured by a receiving antenna, transformed into DC power by a rectifying circuit, and stored in a storage medium to provide the required energy to the sensor node. The application of wireless energy transmission is targeted toward SHM sensor nodes that have been recently developed by the authors, which can be used to collect peak mechanical displacements or piezoelectric impedance measurements. This paper will describe considerations needed to design such energy transmission systems, experimental procedure and results, method of increasing the efficiency, energy conditioning circuits and storage medium, and target applications. Experimental results from a field test on the Alamosa Canyon Bridge in southern New Mexico will also be presented.     

Rapid and recoverable in vivo magnetic resonance imaging of the adult zebrafish at 7T

Increasing scientific interest in the zebrafish as a model organism across a range of biomedical and biological research areas raises the need for the development of in vivo imaging tools appropriate to this subject. Development of the embryonic and early stage forms of the subject can currently be assessed using optical based techniques due to the transparent nature of the species at these early stages. However this is not an option during the juvenile and adult stages when the subjects become opaque. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques would allow for the longitudinal and non-invasive assessment of development and health in these later life stages. However, the small size of the zebrafish and its aquatic environment represent considerable challenges for the technique. We have developed a suitable flow cell system that incorporates a dedicated MRI imaging coil to solve these challenges. The system maintains and monitors a zebrafish during a scan and allows for it to be fully recovered. The imaging properties of this system compare well with those of other preclinical MRI coils used in rodent models. This enables the rapid acquisition of MRI data which are comparable in terms of quality and acquisition time. This would allow the many unique opportunities of the zebrafish as a model organism to be combined with the benefits of non-invasive MRI.     

5G通信平台下的新型MRI系统架构展望

随着5G技术的成熟及商用,无线数据通信的便捷和高效将给人们生活带来巨大的改变.本文基于高速无线网络通信平台,提出了一种新型的磁共振成像（MRI）系统拓扑结构.该架构改变了传统MRI系统结构,采用无线传输方式代替现有的有线连接;此外,多台MRI系统还可共享一个控制中心,提高了控制中心的利用率,单台系统的成本也得以降低,从而使得MRI系统无线化、共享化.     

Transmission System for Broadband Analog Signals Using External Modulation of Optical Radiation

Fiber optic communication lines on the basis of the Mach–Zehnder intensity modulator can be used in studies of pulsed plasma for transmission of signals from detectors to data acquisition equipment. In this study, a system for transmission of nanosecond signals over fiber optic cables in the ranges of 1550 and 850 nm is demonstrated. A chronographic electro-optical detector is used for recording the signals in the range of 850 nm.     

Design of millimeter-wave fiber-wireless downlink with remote local-oscillator delivery by using dual-electrode Mach-Zehnder modulators configured for optical single-sideband modulations

An optical fiber-wireless system operating in millimeter-wave (MMW) bands may include numerous optical remote access points (RAPs) of which the cost is critical to implement such systems in real market. In this paper, we design an optical fiber communication system for MMW optical fiber downlink transmission with remote MMW local-oscillator (LO) delivery for intermediate frequency (IF) fiber uplink transmission. The new design is based on two dual-electrode Mach-Zehnder modulators in parallel both configured for optical single-sideband modulations. By using the proposed design, a conventional RAP can be simplified in structure to reduce the cost. Our numerical results show that, with the proposed design, 1-Gbit/s binary-phase-shift-keying (BPSK) data at a 42-GHz sub-carrier frequency can be transmitted over a 20-km standard single-mode optical fiber followed by a wireless transmission of several kilometers. Moreover, a MMW LO at 37-GHz frequency can be remotely delivered over tens of kilometers of a standard single-mode fiber with acceptable deterioration in the LO phase noise for IF uplink fiber transmission.     

数字、模拟无线混合网络视频节点设计

针对无线多媒体传感器网络广泛的应用前景和目前节点平台稀缺的情况,设计并研制了一种小型化的无线多媒体传感器网络节点。节点采用ADI公司的ADSP-BF561微处理器和Helicomm公司的基于Zigbee网络协议的无线收发模块IP-Link研制而成。在输入通道上可分别支持模拟图像传感器和数字图像传感器。输出通道具有多媒体传输通道和数据/命令传输通道,其中多媒体传输通道用于传输实时的模拟视频,数据/命令传输通道用于传输节点处理之后的有效数据以及接收来自上层网络的命令。     

Physiological assessment of in vivo human knee articular cartilage using sodium MR imaging at 1.5 T

Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder that is most prevalent in the knee joint. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) can be characterized by the gradual loss of articular cartilage (AC). Formation of lesion, fissures and cracks on the cartilage surface has been associated with degenerative AC and can be measured by morphological assessment. In addition, loss of proteoglycan from extracellular matrix of the AC can be measured at early stage of cartilage degradation by physiological assessment. In this case, a biochemical phenomenon of cartilage is used to assess the changes at early degeneration of AC. In this paper, a method to measure local sodium concentration in AC due to proteoglycan has been investigated. A clinical 1.5-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with multinuclear spectroscopic facility is used to acquire sodium images and quantify local sodium content of AC. An optimised 3D gradient-echo sequence with low echo time has been used for MR scan. The estimated sodium concentration in AC region from four different data sets is found to be ~ 225 ± 19 mmol/l, which matches the values that has been reported for the normal AC. This study shows that sodium images acquired at clinical 1.5-T MRI system can generate an adequate quantitative data that enable the estimation of sodium concentration in AC. We conclude that this method is potentially suitable for non-invasive physiological (sodium content) measurement of articular cartilage.