Abstract: A method for machine learning based ultrasound image reconstruction can include receiving, at a reconstruction engine, imaging data; generating an initial estimate for a transmission image via a neural network trained (machine or self-learning) on paired transmission ultrasound and reflection ultrasound data; and performing image reconstruction using the initial estimate to generate transmission ultrasound images. The image reconstruction can generate higher quality transmission ultrasound when carried out by using the initial estimate as the starting point for iterative image reconstruction and using transmission data obtained via conventional transmission ultrasound frequencies (e.g. from 0.8 MHz to 1.5 MHz).