Abstract: A diffusion-weighted MRI pulse sequence employs a two-dimensional diffusion weighting gradient that is sensitive to spin diffusion in a plane defined by two orthogonal gradients to acquire an image. The resulting magnitude image indicates the location of neuronal fibers perpendicular to this plane and by repeating the acquisition with the plane oriented at different angles, neuronal fibers extending through the field of view at any angle are detected. The magnitude images are used to produce a fiber tracking image.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides a cylindrical meanderline coil that can significantly improve the performance and usefulness of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) catheter radiofrequency (RF) coils by shaping the spatial dimensions of the volume of excitation and reception of signal. This can provide improved accuracy in defining the volume of excitation and reception of the subject or specimen, and increase the signal to noise ratio of a received signal. In another aspect, the invention provides an intravascular catheter having a coil at its tip for generating and/or detecting magnetic excitations. A preamplifer coupled to the catheter in proximity of the coil allows amplifying signals generated and/or detected by the coil.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of diffusion spectrum magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to map complex fiber architectures in tissues. The new methods can be used to resolve intravoxel heterogeneity of diffusion in vivo with MRI of diffusion density spectra.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of diffusion spectrum magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to map complex fiber architectures in tissues. The new methods can be used to resolve intravoxel heterogeneity of diffusion in vivo with MRI of diffusion density spectra.