Final project

Objective

I am a contributing member of the OFNI (Organization for Functional NeuroImaging) group, where I am tasked with addressing recurring comments often raised during the review process of our academic papers. Our research focuses on fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) analysis utilizing a novel sequence, which boasts a speed ten times faster than the standard fMRI sequence. However, due to the intricate nature of this innovative sequence, there is a notable lack of understanding among peers, resulting in requests for additional verification. To address this, I have taken the initiative to develop several phantom models to substantiate our findings and deepen our comprehension of the analysis conducted. My primary responsibility within this project is to craft a phantom model aimed at evaluating two critical aspects: the behavior of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow within the brain, which acts as a porous medium, and validating the impact of the three primary drivers influencing CSF dynamics. Through this endeavor, I aim to provide invaluable insights into their performance and propagation, with a specific focus on conducting velocity analyses of these primary drivers—a focal point of my doctoral research. In the forthcoming weeks, I am committed to meticulously planning and executing assignments aimed at fabricating the components of this phantom model. Crafting these phantom models will require a multifaceted approach, encompassing the utilization of 3D printing and CNC cutting techniques, coupled with the intricate task of controlling the pump to simulate cardiac, respiratory, and vasomotor pulsations—each at distinct frequencies. Recognizing the limitations of standard pumps in providing such frequency control, I have undertaken the challenge of modifying a standard pump to incorporate this essential functionality. Subsequently, post-imaging, the frequencies will be dissected using bandpass filtering techniques, further enriching our dataset derived from fMRI scans. This initiative holds profound significance within the realm of glymphatic system research, facilitating the non-invasive measurement of intracranial CSF flow velocity and pressure—a critical pursuit within the field of neuroscience and medical diagnostics. Drawing from my published research, which elucidates the propagation of a respiratory wave intracranially and accompanies measurements of its speed in three dimensions, I am compelled to emphasize the pivotal role of understanding CSF dynamics in advancing neurological research and medical diagnostics. Through my endeavors, I aim to contribute meaningfully to the collective pursuit of knowledge within the field of functional neuroimaging, propelling our understanding of complex brain phenomena and their implications for human health and well-being.

In this project, my objective is to obtain precise measurements of the velocity of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as it enters the brain. To achieve this goal, I intend to conduct a comparative analysis between the measured CSF flow obtained through traditional optical flow analysis of the MREG sequence (ultra-fast functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and the direct measurements acquired in this study. By juxtaposing these two datasets, I aim to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of our method in quantifying CSF dynamics. This comparative approach will provide valuable insights into the efficacy of our technique and its potential applications in elucidating the intricacies of CSF flow within the brain. Through this endeavor, I aspire to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of neuroimaging and facilitate a deeper understanding of the physiological processes underlying cerebral fluid dynamics.