Abstract: A RF coil compression system for use with an MRI system configured to image a patient's breast is disclosed. In one embodiment, the compression system comprises a first compression plate comprising a first plurality of RF coil elements, which is positioned in a plane oriented orthogonal to a direction of the main magnetic field and the first RF coil elements having a reception sensitivity to a B1 field and is orthogonal to a main magnetic field of the MRI system. The compresses system may further comprise a second compression plate, configured to be positioned opposing the first compression plate and orthogonal to the superior-inferior direction, the second compression plate comprising a second plurality of RF coil elements, the second RF coil elements having a reception sensitivity to a B1 field oriented in a direction substantially orthogonal to the first direction and to the main magnetic field of the MRI system.

Abstract: Systems and methods for improving patient comfort and throughput of magnetic resonance imaging by providing at least one patient imaging area outside a bore of a magnet of a magnetic resonance imaging device. An embodiment of an apparatus for providing at least one patient imaging area outside the bore comprises a first shim disposed external to and spaced apart from a first opening of the bore to form a first patient imaging area between the first shim and the first opening, wherein the first shim is configured to direct a magnetic field of the magnet into the first patient imaging area to provide a first magnetic field in the first patient imaging area. Methods of magnetic resonance imaging outside the bore are also disclosed.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) probe includes a coil section having an imaging coil, and a handle section connected to the coil section. The handle section has a phase shifter circuit with inductors, capacitors, and coax line electrically connected and is configured to provide appropriate phase shift. The handle section further has a coaxial cable winding electrically connected to the imaging coil, and wound cylindrically, and has a slot therethrough between the ends of the cylindrical winding. The handle section further has a pre-amp circuit mounted on a substrate and electrically connected to the cylindrical coax winding.

Abstract: A RF coil compression system for use with an MRI system configured to image a patient's breast is disclosed. In one embodiment, the compression system comprises a first compression plate comprising a first plurality of RF coil elements, which is positioned in a plane oriented orthogonal to a direction of the main magnetic field and the first RF coil elements having a reception sensitivity to a B1 field and is orthogonal to a main magnetic field of the MRI system. The compresses system may further comprise a second compression plate, configured to be positioned opposing the first compression plate and orthogonal to the superior-inferior direction, the second compression plate comprising a second plurality of RF coil elements, the second RF coil elements having a reception sensitivity to a B1 field oriented in a direction substantially orthogonal to the first direction and to the main magnetic field of the MRI system.

Abstract: Systems and methods for improving patient comfort and throughput of magnetic resonance imaging by providing at least one patient imaging area outside a bore of a magnet of a magnetic resonance imaging device. An embodiment of an apparatus for providing at least one patient imaging area outside the bore comprises a first shim disposed external to and spaced apart from a first opening of the bore to form a first patient imaging area between the first shim and the first opening, wherein the first shim is configured to direct a magnetic field of the magnet into the first patient imaging area to provide a first magnetic field in the first patient imaging area. Methods of magnetic resonance imaging outside the bore are also disclosed.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) probe apparatus is described. The MRI imaging probe includes a coil section having an imaging coil, and a handle section connected to the coil section. The handle section having a phase shifter circuit with inductors, capacitors, and coax line electrically connected and configured to provide appropriate phase shift. The handle section further having a coaxial cable winding electrically connected to the imaging coil, and wound cylindrically, and having a slot therethrough between the ends of the cylindrical winding. The handle section further having a pre-amp circuit mounted on a substrate and electrically connected to the cylindrical coax winding.

Abstract: A document preparation program for use in connection with a word processing facility includes a succinct identification and listing of designated parts of a memorandum or document, each unique part having access to an associated file which contains the basic text and formatting controls for that particular part. The user of the program may readily assemble a document from the parts inventory displayed on a master screen by mere cursor reference or by keying the name of designated parts and have the newly created document displayed, or printed in most cases without reference to additional screens.

Abstract: A rack and pinion steering gear includes a unitary, sealed housing of plastic material. The housing comprises at least two housing shells having bearing seats and the like integrally molded therein for mounting a rack bar and a pinion assembly in operative engagement. The shells also have passageways molded therein to add rigidity to the housing and to promote the flow of a lubricant along and about the rack bar.