A method and system for scanning a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system

Abstract

A scanning method and system of a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system, the method comprising: obtaining a first sequence to be scanned by the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; identifying a first blank period of the first sequence scanning; identifying a second sequence of a target to-be-scanned nucleus capable of being scanned in the first blank period according to the first sequence, the first blank period, and scanning parameters of a candidate to-be-scanned nucleus of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; and performing magnetic resonance scanning on the second sequence in the first blank period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to the field of medical technology, and in particular to a scanning method and system for a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance imaging system. Background Technology

[0002] Studies of complex neuronal activity or the functional metabolism of vital organs throughout the body can achieve non-invasive and quantitative assessment of in vivo energy metabolism or functional metabolism by tracking changes in the signals of metabolite components involved in the metabolic process using non-invasive techniques. With the development of ultra-high field technology in recent years, multinuclear magnetic resonance (MMR) technology has provided the feasibility for tracking metabolic component signals. By tracking changes in nuclear signals during specific energy cycle metabolism, MMR technology can effectively detect pathological progression or assess the effectiveness of treatment. However, due to physical constraints, such as the extremely low concentration of non-proton nuclei in the imaged object or human body, resulting in extremely weak signals, multiple acquisitions are typically required to achieve a certain signal-to-noise ratio.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a scanning method and system for multinuclear magnetic resonance systems to improve scanning efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment of this specification provides a scanning method for a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system. The method includes: acquiring a first sequence to be scanned by the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; identifying a first blank period during the scanning of the first sequence; identifying a second sequence of target nuclei that can be scanned during the first blank period based on the first sequence, the first blank period, and scanning parameters of candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; and performing magnetic resonance scanning on the second sequence during the first blank period.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first blank period includes a parameter adjustment period, a period that does not affect evolution, or any combination thereof, wherein the operation on the target nucleus to be scanned during the period that does not affect evolution does not affect the signal evolution of the first sequence.

[0006] In some embodiments, identifying a second sequence of the target nucleus that can be scanned during the first blank period based on the first sequence, the first blank period, and the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei of the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system includes: obtaining a first gyromagnetic ratio of the scanning nucleus corresponding to the first sequence; for each of the candidate nuclei, obtaining the gyromagnetic ratio of the candidate nucleus to obtain at least one second gyromagnetic ratio; and selecting the target nucleus based on the first gyromagnetic ratio, the at least one second gyromagnetic ratio, and preset conditions.

[0007] In some embodiments, the scanning method further includes: determining the number of feasible excitation acquisition cycles for the target nucleus to be scanned based on the duration of the first blank time period and the minimum excitation acquisition cycle of the target nucleus to be scanned.

[0008] In some embodiments, the scanning method further includes: continuing to scan the first sequence after the first blank period ends.

[0009] In some embodiments, the scanning method further includes: the first sequence comprising a first sub-sequence and a second sub-sequence, wherein the first sub-sequence is a scanning sequence of a first nucleus and the second sub-sequence is a scanning sequence of a second nucleus; identifying a second blank period during the scanning of the first sequence; identifying a third sequence of a target nucleus that can be scanned during the second blank period based on the first sequence, the second blank period, and the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system; and performing magnetic resonance scanning on the third sequence during the second blank period.

[0010] One embodiment of this specification provides a scanning system for a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system, comprising: an acquisition module for acquiring a first sequence to be scanned by the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; a blank period identification module for identifying a first blank period during the scanning of the first sequence; a target nucleus identification module for identifying a second sequence of target nuclei that can be scanned during the first blank period based on the first sequence, the first blank period, and scanning parameters of candidate target nuclei of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; and a scanning module for performing magnetic resonance scanning on the second sequence during the first blank period.

[0011] In some embodiments, the target nucleus identification module is further configured to: obtain a first gyromagnetic ratio of the scanning nucleus corresponding to the first sequence; for each of the candidate nuclei to be scanned, obtain the gyromagnetic ratio of the candidate nuclei to be scanned, and obtain at least one second gyromagnetic ratio; and select the target nucleus to be scanned based on the first gyromagnetic ratio, the at least one second gyromagnetic ratio, and a preset condition.

[0012] One embodiment of this specification provides a scanning device for a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system, characterized in that the device includes: at least one storage medium for storing computer instructions; and at least one processor for executing the computer instructions to implement the scanning method for the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system as described above.

[0013] One embodiment of this specification provides a computer-readable storage medium that stores computer instructions. When a computer reads the computer instructions, the computer executes the scanning method of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system as described above.

[0014] Existing multi-core systems support acquiring different cores in different sequences, or simultaneously setting parameters for multiple cores to be acquired in the same sequence, requiring synchronized start / stop of scanning. Existing multi-core systems cannot ensure that while parameters are adjusted for one core during the execution of the same sequence, other cores can continue scanning and acquiring data.

[0015] Based on this, the embodiments of this specification propose an efficient scanning method and system for multi-nuclear magnetic resonance systems, which can optimize the timing of multiple scanning sequences and improve scanning efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0016] This specification will be further described by way of exemplary embodiments, which will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are not limiting; in these embodiments, the same reference numerals denote the same structures, wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of an exemplary multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system scanning system according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a scanning system for an exemplary multinuclear magnetic resonance system according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a scanning method for an exemplary multinuclear magnetic resonance system according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a scanning method for a multinuclear magnetic resonance system according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0021] Figure 5 This is another schematic diagram of a scanning method for a multinuclear magnetic resonance system according to other embodiments of this specification;

[0022] Figure 6 This is another schematic diagram of a scanning method for a multinuclear magnetic resonance system according to other embodiments of this specification. Detailed Implementation

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments in this specification, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some examples or embodiments of this specification. For those skilled in the art, these drawings can be applied to other similar scenarios without creative effort. Unless obvious from the context or otherwise specified, the same reference numerals in the drawings represent the same structures or operations.

[0024] It should be understood that the terms “system,” “device,” “unit,” and / or “module” used herein are one way to distinguish different components, elements, parts, sections, or assemblies at different levels. However, if other terms can achieve the same purpose, they may be replaced by other expressions.

[0025] As indicated in this specification and claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words "a," "an," "an," and / or "the" do not specifically refer to the singular and may also include the plural. Generally speaking, the terms "comprising" and "including" only indicate the inclusion of expressly identified steps and elements, which do not constitute an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements.

[0026] Flowcharts are used in this specification to illustrate the operations performed by the system according to embodiments of this specification. It should be understood that the preceding or following operations are not necessarily performed in exact order. Instead, the steps can be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. Furthermore, other operations can be added to these processes, or one or more steps can be removed from them.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of an exemplary multi-nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system according to some embodiments of this specification. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the application scenario 100 of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system scanning system may include at least a scanning device 110, a processing device 120, a terminal device 130, a storage device 140, and a network 150.

[0028] The scanning device 110 can scan a target object within a detection area or a scanning area to obtain scan data of the target object. In some embodiments, the target object may include biological objects and / or non-biological objects. For example, the target object may be living or non-living organic and / or inorganic matter.

[0029] In some embodiments, the scanning device 110 may include any combination thereof, such as a permanent magnet magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, a conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, a superconducting magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, a nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMR) device, an electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (EPI) device, or an electron spin resonance imaging (ESI) device. In some embodiments, the scanning device 110 may include a single-modal scanner and / or a multimodal scanner. A single-modal scanner may include, for example, an MRI scanner. A multimodal scanner may include, for example, an X-ray imaging-MRI scanner, a single-photon emission computed tomography-MRI scanner, a digital subtraction angiography-MRI scanner, or any combination thereof. The above description of the scanning devices is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of this specification.

[0030] The processing device 120 can process data and / or information acquired from other components of the scanning system application scenario 100, including the scanning device 110, terminal device 130, storage device 140, and / or multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system. For example, the processing device 120 can acquire scan sequences (e.g., a first sequence) from the terminal device 130 and storage device 140 and analyze and process them. As another example, the processing device 120 can control the operation of the scanning device 110 based on the results of the analysis and processing.

[0031] In some embodiments, processing device 120 may be a single server or a group of servers. The server group may be centralized or distributed. In some embodiments, processing device 120 may be local or remote. For example, processing device 120 may access information and / or data from scanning device 110, terminal device 130, and / or storage device 140 via network 150. Alternatively, processing device 120 may be directly connected to scanning device 110, terminal device 130, and / or storage device 140 to access information and / or data. In some embodiments, processing device 120 may be implemented on a cloud platform. For example, the cloud platform may include private cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud, community cloud, distributed cloud, inter-cloud cloud, multi-cloud, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0032] In some embodiments, the processing device 120 and the scanning device 110 may be integrated into one unit. In some embodiments, the processing device 120 and the scanning device 110 may be directly or indirectly connected to work together to implement the methods and / or functions described herein.

[0033] In some embodiments, the processing device 120 may include input devices and / or output devices. These input devices and / or output devices enable interaction with the user (e.g., setting scan sequences, adjusting scan parameters, etc.). In some embodiments, the input devices and / or output devices may include a display screen, keyboard, mouse, microphone, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0034] Terminal device 130 can communicate and / or connect to scanning device 110, processing device 120, and / or storage device 140. In some embodiments, interaction with a user can be achieved through terminal device 130. In some embodiments, terminal device 130 may include mobile device 131, tablet computer 132, laptop computer 133, etc., or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, terminal device 130 (or all or part of its functions) may be integrated into processing device 120.

[0035] Storage device 140 may store data, instructions, and / or any other information. In some embodiments, storage device 140 may store data (e.g., scan sequences, scan parameters, scan images, etc.) acquired from scanning device 110, processing device 120, terminal device 130, and / or other sources. In some embodiments, storage device 140 may store data and / or instructions used by processing device 120 to perform or use in order to complete the exemplary methods described herein.

[0036] In some embodiments, storage device 140 may include one or more storage components, each of which may be a separate device or part of another device. In some embodiments, storage device 140 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), mass storage, removable memory, volatile read-write memory, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, storage device 140 may be implemented on a cloud platform. In some embodiments, storage device 140 may be part of scanning device 110, processing device 120, and / or terminal device 130.

[0037] Network 150 may include any suitable network capable of facilitating information and / or data exchange. In some embodiments, at least one component of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MMRI) scanning system application scenario 100 (e.g., scanning device 110, processing device 120, terminal device 130, storage device 140) can exchange information and / or data with at least one other component in the MMRI scanning system application scenario 100 via network 150. For example, processing device 120 can acquire a target image of a target object from scanning device 110 via network 150.

[0038] It should be noted that the above description of the application scenario 100 of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MMRI) system scanning system is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of this specification. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications or variations based on the description in this specification. For example, the application scenario 100 of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MMRI) system scanning system can achieve similar or different functions on other devices. However, these changes and modifications will not depart from the scope of this specification.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a scanning system for an exemplary multinuclear magnetic resonance system according to some embodiments of this specification. Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the scanning system 200 of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system may include an acquisition module 210, a blank period identification module 220, a target nucleus identification module 230, and a scanning module 240. In some embodiments, the functions corresponding to the scanning system 200 of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system may be executed by the processing device 120.

[0040] The acquisition module 210 can be used to acquire a first sequence to be scanned (implemented or performed) by the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system. More information on acquiring the first sequence can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 3 Step 310 and its related description.

[0041] The blank period identification module 220 can be used to identify a first blank period during the first sequence scan (implementation or execution). In some embodiments, the first blank period includes a period that does not affect the evolution, a parameter adjustment period, or any combination thereof. More information on first blank period identification can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 3 Step 320 and its related description.

[0042] The target nucleus identification module 230 can be used to identify a second sequence of target nuclei that can be scanned during the first blank period based on the first sequence, the first blank period, and the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system. In some embodiments, the target nucleus identification module 230 can acquire a first gyromagnetic ratio and a second gyromagnetic ratio; and select a target nucleus to be scanned according to preset conditions. More information on sequence identification of target nuclei to be scanned can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 3 Step 330 and its related description.

[0043] The scanning module 240 can be used to perform magnetic resonance scanning on the second sequence during a first blank period. In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can determine the number of cycles of the target nucleus to be scanned based on the duration of the first blank period and the pulse period of the target nucleus. In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can continue scanning the first sequence (implementing or executing the first sequence) after the first blank period ends. More information on sequence scanning can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 3 Step 340 and its related description.

[0044] It should be understood that Figure 2 The systems and modules shown can be implemented in various ways. For example, they can be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of both. The systems and modules in this specification can be implemented not only by hardware circuits such as very large-scale integrated circuits or gate arrays, semiconductors such as logic chips and transistors, or programmable hardware devices such as field-programmable gate arrays and programmable logic devices, but also by software, for example, executed by various types of processors, or by a combination of the aforementioned hardware circuits and software (e.g., firmware).

[0045] It should be noted that the above description of the system and its modules is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting this specification to the scope of the illustrated embodiments. It is understood that those skilled in the art, after understanding the principles of this system, may arbitrarily combine the various modules or construct subsystems connected to other modules without departing from these principles.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a scanning method for an exemplary multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system according to some embodiments of this specification. In some embodiments, process 300 may be executed by processing device 120 or scanning system 200 of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system. For example, process 300 may be stored in a storage device (e.g., storage device 140, storage unit of processing device 120) in the form of a program or instructions, and executed by the processor or... Figure 2 When the module shown executes a program or instructions, it can implement process 300. In some embodiments, process 300 may be completed using one or more additional operations not described below, and / or not through one or more operations discussed below. Additionally, as Figure 3 The order of operations shown is not restrictive.

[0047] Step 310: Acquire a first sequence to be scanned by the multinuclear magnetic resonance imaging system. In some embodiments, step 310 may be performed by the processing device 120 or the acquisition module 210.

[0048] Multinucleus magnetic resonance (MMR) systems typically utilize atomic nuclei including 1H, 13C, 15N, 17O, 19F, 23Na, 31P, and 35Cl, each possessing its own metabolic characteristics and advantages. For example, 1H has a high natural abundance, providing excellent soft tissue contrast and clear anatomical structures in MMR imaging. Furthermore, measuring 23Na using an MMR system allows for simultaneous observation of intracellular and extracellular ion concentrations, enabling quantitative analysis of net ion movement. Additionally, 31P MMR can directly observe metabolic intensity and tissue activity in vivo. In some embodiments, users (e.g., doctors, testing personnel, equipment department staff) can construct multiple sequences corresponding to multiple nuclei, and scanning these sequences can yield tissue images of various nuclides.

[0049] In some embodiments, multiple sequences can be obtained from the scanning device 110, the storage device 140, the storage unit of the processing device 120, etc. In some embodiments, the acquisition module 210 can obtain multiple sequences by reading from the storage device, the database, calling the data interface, etc.

[0050] The first sequence can be the sequence scanned first among multiple sequences. In some embodiments, the first sequence can be obtained based on experience or needs; for example, the first sequence can be the most frequently used sequence, the sequence with the longest total scanning time, the sequence with the longest blank period, etc.

[0051] Step 320: Identify the first blank period of the first sequence scan. In some embodiments, step 320 may be performed by the processing device 120 or the blank period identification module 220.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first blank period includes a parameter adjustment period, a period that does not affect the evolution, or any combination thereof.

[0053] The parameter adjustment period refers to the time period used to adjust scanning parameters according to the scanning protocol, the physical characteristics of the scanning core, the attributes of the scanning device, etc. In some embodiments, scanning parameters may include radio frequency parameters, gradient parameters, imaging parameters, etc.

[0054] In some embodiments, the scanning sequence (e.g., the first sequence) may include multiple scanning protocols, such as Spin Echo (SE), Fast-Spin Echo (FSE), Turbo Spin Echo (TSE), Free Induction Decay (FID), Gradient Recalled Echo (GRE), Hybrid Contrast Protocol (a protocol with both spin echo and gradient echo), Inversion Recovery (IR), and Echo Planar Imaging (EPI). In some embodiments, the multiple scanning protocols in the scanning sequence are scanned sequentially, and each scanning protocol corresponds to different scanning parameters. In some embodiments, the scanning sequence can be combined by sequentially performing a first protocol parameter setting period, a first protocol scanning period, a second scan protocol parameter adjustment period, a second scan protocol scanning period, a third scan protocol parameter adjustment period, and a third scan protocol scanning period, etc. Figure 4 As shown, the first sequence includes at least three scanning protocols. First, the parameter setting period of the first protocol (FSE type) is performed (not shown in the figure), followed by the scanning period of the first protocol (FSE type) 410, and then the parameter adjustment period of the second scanning protocol (GRE type) 420, the scanning period of the second scanning protocol 430, the parameter adjustment period of the third scanning protocol (EPI type) 440, and the scanning period of the third scanning protocol 450, etc.

[0055] In some embodiments, the parameter adjustment period can be obtained from the storage units of the scanning device 110, storage device 140, and processing device 120. In some embodiments, the blank period identification module 220 can obtain the parameter adjustment period by reading from the storage device, the database, or calling the data interface.

[0056] Compared to setting (or adjusting) the parameters of all scanning protocols at the very beginning of the sequence (e.g., the initial protocol parameter setting period), the above-described combination of scanning sequences allows for an earlier initial protocol scan period, and enables scanning of other sequences during subsequent protocol parameter adjustment periods. For example, other sequences (e.g., the 23Na sequence) can be scanned during the second or third protocol parameter adjustment period of the first sequence (e.g., the 1H sequence).

[0057] Derivation refers to the signal change process of a nuclide after the application of magnetic resonance operation (applying pulse energy, radio frequency gradient, etc.).

[0058] The "non-affected evolution period" refers to a waiting and / or interval time set according to the physical characteristics of the imaged nuclide in order to achieve a certain physical contrast index and / or imaging index. Due to the inherent physical differences between the first and second nuclides, certain operations performed on the second nuclide during this period do not affect the signal evolution process of the first nuclide. During the non-affected evolution period, no operations are performed on the first sequence, and operations on other nuclides to be scanned do not affect the signal evolution of the first sequence. For example, the non-affected evolution period may include the signal recovery period of the first sequence, the image contrast formation period, etc. In some embodiments, the non-affected evolution period can be determined based on the physical characteristics of the nuclide or experimental verification results. In some embodiments, the non-affected evolution period can be set by the functional developer (e.g., the designer of the scanning sequence). For example, the functional developer can set the start time, duration, etc., of the non-affected evolution period.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first blank time period can be obtained from the scanning device 110, the storage device 140, the storage unit of the processing device 120, etc. In some embodiments, the blank time period identification module 220 can obtain the first blank time period by reading from the storage device, the database, calling the data interface, etc.

[0060] By utilizing blank periods, system time can be fully and effectively utilized, thereby reducing the total scanning time; or by acquiring signals more times within the same time period, the signal-to-noise ratio of the acquired signal can be improved.

[0061] Step 330: Based on the first sequence, the first blank period of the first sequence scan, and the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system, a second sequence of target nuclei to be scanned that can be scanned during the first blank period is identified. In some embodiments, step 330 may be performed by the processing device 120 or the target nucleus identification module 230.

[0062] Scanning parameters can include resonant frequency parameters, magnetic field gradient parameters, and radio frequency pulse parameters. Due to the differences in the physical properties of the scanning nuclei, different scanning nuclei are suitable for different scanning parameters.

[0063] In some embodiments, the target kernel identification module 230 may employ various methods to identify a second sequence of target kernels that can be scanned during the first blank period. For example, a sequence of candidate kernels with a radio frequency pulse period shorter than the duration of the first blank period may be used as a second sequence of target kernels that can be scanned during the first blank period.

[0064] In some embodiments, the target nucleus identification module 230 can select the target nucleus to be scanned by utilizing the gyromagnetic ratio of each scanning nucleus.

[0065] First, the target nucleus identification module 230 can obtain the first gyromagnetic ratio of the scanned nuclei in the first sequence.

[0066] The gyromagnetic ratio is the ratio of the nuclear magnetic moment to the mechanical angular momentum. It is an inherent characteristic of atomic nuclei and is related to the ratio of ionic charge to mass. Different atomic nuclei have different gyromagnetic ratio values. In some embodiments, the target nucleus identification module 230 can obtain the first gyromagnetic ratio of the first sequence of scanned nuclei by looking up a table or other means. For example, if the first sequence of scanned nuclei is 1H, the gyromagnetic ratio of 1H can be obtained as 42.57 MHz / T by looking up a table.

[0067] Secondly, for each of the other nuclei to be scanned, the target nucleus identification module 230 can obtain the gyromagnetic ratio of the nucleus to be scanned, and obtain at least one second gyromagnetic ratio. In some embodiments, the target nucleus identification module 230 can obtain at least one second gyromagnetic ratio by means of table lookup or other methods. For example, the other nuclei to be scanned include 17O, 19F, 23Na and 31P. By looking up a table, the gyromagnetic ratio of 17O is 5.772MHz / T, the gyromagnetic ratio of 19F is 40.053MHz / T, the gyromagnetic ratio of 23Na is 11.262MHz / T, and the gyromagnetic ratio of 31P is 17.235MHz / T.

[0068] Finally, the target nucleus identification module 230 can select a target nucleus to be scanned based on a first gyromagnetic ratio, at least one second gyromagnetic ratio, and preset conditions. Preset conditions refer to necessary conditions for the target nucleus to be scanned that are predetermined. In some embodiments, preset conditions can be set based on experience or requirements. For example, a preset condition can be that the difference from the first gyromagnetic ratio is greater than a first threshold, or that the difference from the first gyromagnetic ratio is maximized. In some embodiments, preset conditions can be set based on the index parameters of the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system. For example, if a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system B with index parameter 2 has better performance and stronger distinguishing ability for multiple target nuclei than a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system A with index parameter 1, then the preset condition for multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system B can be that the difference from the first gyromagnetic ratio is greater than a second threshold, where the second threshold can be less than the first threshold.

[0069] The greater the difference in gyromagnetic ratio among the nuclei to be scanned, the greater the distinguishability during excitation and signal acquisition, and the less interference between the nuclei. Therefore, selecting other nuclei with a large gyromagnetic ratio difference from the first scanning nucleus during the first blank period is beneficial to improve scanning efficiency while reducing or avoiding interference between scanning nuclei, resulting in more accurate scanning results for each scanning nucleus.

[0070] Step 340: Perform magnetic resonance scanning on the second sequence during the first blank time period. In some embodiments, step 340 may be performed by scanning module 240.

[0071] For example, such as Figure 5 ( Figure 5 As shown in the enlarged view of the first protocol scanning period 410, the scanning module 240 can scan the 23Na sequence during the 1H sequence period without affecting the evolution.

[0072] In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 may distribute the first blank time intervals equally or by weight to the sequence of target kernels to be scanned. In some embodiments, the user may define the priority order of the target kernels to be scanned, and the scanning module 240 may scan the sequence of target kernels to be scanned according to the priority order.

[0073] In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can determine the number of cycles for the target nucleus to be scanned based on the duration of the first blank period and the minimum excitation acquisition cycle of the target nucleus to be scanned.

[0074] The minimum excitation-acquisition period (TR) refers to the shortest time required to complete one excitation-acquisition process for a nuclide. For example, taking a specific scan sequence of 23Na, if the time between one excitation and the next is 300 milliseconds, then the minimum excitation-acquisition period is 300 milliseconds. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this context, 23Na TR represents the minimum excitation and acquisition cycle of 23Na.

[0075] In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can determine the number of cycles for the target nucleus to be scanned by calculating the integer quotient of the duration of the first blank period and the minimum excitation acquisition cycle. For example, Figure 4 The duration of the third scan protocol parameter adjustment period 440 is 4 seconds, the minimum excitation acquisition cycle of the target nucleus 23Na is 300 milliseconds, and the integer quotient is 13. Therefore, 23Na can be scanned for 13 cycles during the third scan protocol parameter adjustment period 440. For example, Figure 5 The duration of the non-affected evolution period 510 is 2 seconds, the minimum excitation acquisition cycle of the target nucleus 23Na to be scanned is 300 milliseconds, and the integer quotient is 6. Therefore, 23Na can be scanned for 6 cycles without affecting the evolution period 510.

[0076] In some embodiments, after the first blank period ends, the scanning module 240 can continue scanning the first sequence. For example, the 23Na sequence was scanned during the first blank period of the 1H sequence, and after the first blank period ends, for example, in... Figure 4 The time points 421 and 441 in the text Figure 5 After time point 511, scanning module 240 can continue scanning the 1H sequence.

[0077] In some embodiments, the first sequence may include a first sub-sequence and a second sub-sequence, wherein the first sub-sequence is a scan sequence of a first core, and the second sub-sequence is a scan sequence of a second core, for example, as shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the first subsequence and the second subsequence are executed sequentially. The first subsequence can be a 1H sequence and the second subsequence can be a 17O sequence.

[0078] In some embodiments, firstly, the scanning module 240 can identify a second blank period in the first sequence scan. In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can identify the second blank period in the first sequence scan using a method similar to step 320. In some embodiments, the second blank period may include a first sub-blank period of the first sub-sequence and a second sub-blank period of the second sub-sequence. In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can identify the first sub-blank period and the second sub-blank period respectively. For example, as... Figure 6 As shown, the scanning module 240 can identify the first sub-blank time period, including: the second scan protocol (GRE type) parameter adjustment time period 610 of the first sub-sequence, the third scan protocol (EPI type) parameter adjustment time period 620 of the first sub-sequence, and the time period in the first sub-sequence that does not affect evolution (not shown in the figure). The scanning module 240 can identify the second sub-blank time period, including: the second scan protocol (GRE type) parameter adjustment time period 630 of the second sub-sequence, the third scan protocol (EPI type) parameter adjustment time period 640 of the second sub-sequence, and the time period in the second sub-sequence that does not affect evolution (not shown in the figure).

[0079] Secondly, the scanning module 240 can identify the target nucleus sequence that can be scanned during the second blank period based on the first sequence, the second blank period, and the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system, and perform magnetic resonance scanning on the target nucleus sequence during the second blank period. In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can scan sequences of the same nuclide whose gyromagnetic ratio difference with both the first and second nuclei is greater than a first threshold during the second blank period. For example, it can scan sequences of 23Na whose gyromagnetic ratio difference with 1H and 17O is greater than 15 MHz / T during the second blank period. In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can scan sequences of nuclides with the longest total duration or the shortest minimum excitation period during the second blank period. In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can scan different sequences during the first and second sub-blank periods respectively. For example, it can scan sequences of nuclides with the largest gyromagnetic ratio difference with the first nucleus during the first sub-blank period and sequences of nuclides with the largest gyromagnetic ratio difference with the second nucleus during the second sub-blank period. For example, during the first sub-blank period, the sequence of 23Na with the largest difference in gyromagnetic ratio from 1H was scanned, and during the second sub-blank period, the sequence of 19F with the largest difference in gyromagnetic ratio from the second nucleus of 17O was scanned.

[0080] In some embodiments, the scanning module 240 can perform magnetic resonance scanning on the second sequence during the first blank time period, and obtain the second blank time period of the second sequence using a method similar to step 320, and perform magnetic resonance scanning on the third sequence during the second blank time period.

[0081] It should be noted that the above description of process 300 is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the scope of this specification. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications and changes to process 300 under the guidance of this specification. However, these modifications and changes remain within the scope of this specification.

[0082] In some embodiments of this specification, (1) the parameter adjustment period is shifted to the later stage, reducing the waiting time of the first scan sequence; (2) sequences with large differences in gyromagnetic ratio are scanned synchronously, which improves the scanning efficiency while reducing or avoiding interference between scan nuclei; (3) the system time is fully and effectively utilized, thereby reducing the total scanning time; or the signal-to-noise ratio of the acquired signal is improved by performing more signal acquisitions within the same time period.

[0083] The basic concepts have been described above. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, the detailed disclosure above is merely illustrative and does not constitute a limitation of this specification. Although not explicitly stated herein, those skilled in the art may make various modifications, improvements, and corrections to this specification. Such modifications, improvements, and corrections are suggested in this specification and therefore remain within the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0084] Furthermore, this specification uses specific terms to describe embodiments thereof. For example, "an embodiment," "one embodiment," and / or "some embodiments" refer to a particular feature, structure, or characteristic associated with at least one embodiment of this specification. Therefore, it should be emphasized and noted that references to "an embodiment," "one embodiment," or "an alternative embodiment" in different locations throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, certain features, structures, or characteristics in one or more embodiments of this specification can be appropriately combined.

[0085] Furthermore, unless expressly stated in the claims, the order of processing elements and sequences, the use of numbers and letters, or other names described in this specification are not intended to limit the order of the processes and methods described herein. Although various examples have been discussed in the foregoing disclosure of some embodiments of the invention that are currently considered useful, it should be understood that such details are for illustrative purposes only, and the appended claims are not limited to the disclosed embodiments; rather, the claims are intended to cover all modifications and equivalent combinations that conform to the spirit and scope of the embodiments described herein. For example, while the system components described above can be implemented using hardware devices, they can also be implemented solely using software solutions, such as installing the described system on existing servers or mobile devices.

[0086] Similarly, it should be noted that, in order to simplify the description disclosed herein and thus aid in the understanding of one or more embodiments of the invention, the foregoing description of embodiments in this specification may sometimes combine multiple features into a single embodiment, drawing, or description thereof. However, this method of disclosure does not imply that the subject matter of this specification requires more features than those mentioned in the claims. In fact, the embodiments contain fewer features than all the features of a single embodiment disclosed above.

[0087] In some embodiments, numbers describing the quantity of components and attributes are used. It should be understood that such numbers used in the description of embodiments are modified in some examples with the terms "approximately," "approximately," or "generally." Unless otherwise stated, "approximately," "approximately," or "generally" indicates that the numbers are allowed to vary by ±20%. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters used in the specification and claims are approximate values, which may be changed depending on the characteristics required by individual embodiments. In some embodiments, numerical parameters should take into account specified significant digits and employ a general method of digit reservation. Although the numerical ranges and parameters used to confirm their breadth of range in some embodiments of this specification are approximate values, in specific embodiments, such values ​​are set as precisely as feasible.

[0088] For each patent, patent application, patent application publication, and other material, such as articles, books, specifications, publications, and documents, referenced in this specification, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This excludes historical application documents that are inconsistent with or conflict with the content of this specification, as well as documents that limit the broadest scope of the claims in this specification (currently or subsequently appended to this specification). It should be noted that in the event of any inconsistency or conflict between the descriptions, definitions, and / or terminology used in the supplementary materials to this specification and the content of this specification, the descriptions, definitions, and / or terminology used in this specification shall prevail.

[0089] Finally, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification are merely illustrative of the principles of the embodiments described herein. Other variations may also fall within the scope of this specification. Therefore, alternative configurations of the embodiments described herein are intended to be illustrative rather than limiting, and should be considered consistent with the teachings of this specification. Accordingly, the embodiments described herein are not limited to those explicitly introduced and described herein.

Claims

1. A scanning method for a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system, characterized in that, The method includes: Obtain the first sequence to be scanned by the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; Identify the first blank period in the first sequence scan; Based on the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system, the first sequence, and the first blank time period, a second sequence of target nuclei to be scanned that can be scanned during the first blank time period is identified, wherein the candidate nuclei to be scanned is different from the scanning nuclei corresponding to the first sequence; The second sequence was subjected to magnetic resonance scanning during the first blank period.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first blank period includes a parameter adjustment period, a period that does not affect the evolution, or any combination thereof, wherein the operation on the target nucleus to be scanned during the period that does not affect the evolution does not affect the signal evolution of the first sequence.

3. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step of identifying a second sequence of the target nucleus that can be scanned during the first blank period based on the first sequence, the first blank period, and the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system includes: Obtain the first gyromagnetic ratio of the scanning nucleus corresponding to the first sequence; For each of the candidate nuclei to be scanned, the gyromagnetic ratio of the candidate nuclei to be scanned is obtained, and at least one second gyromagnetic ratio is obtained; The target nucleus to be scanned is selected based on the first gyromagnetic ratio, the at least one second gyromagnetic ratio, and preset conditions.

4. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Based on the duration of the first blank period and the minimum excitation acquisition cycle of the target nucleus to be scanned, the number of excitation acquisition cycles that can be performed on the target nucleus to be scanned is determined.

5. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: After the first blank period ends, the first sequence is scanned again.

6. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The first sequence includes a first subsequence and a second subsequence, wherein the first subsequence is a scan sequence of a first core, and the second subsequence is a scan sequence of a second core; Identify the second blank period in the first sequence scan; Based on the first sequence, the second blank period, and the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system, a third sequence of target nuclei to be scanned that can be scanned during the second blank period is identified; The third sequence was subjected to magnetic resonance scanning during the second blank period.

7. A scanning system for a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system, characterized in that, The system includes: The acquisition module is used to acquire the first sequence to be scanned by the multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system; The blank period identification module is used to identify the first blank period of the first sequence scan; The target nucleus identification module is used to identify a second sequence of target nuclei that can be scanned during the first blank time period based on the scanning parameters of the candidate nuclei to be scanned in the multi-nucleus magnetic resonance system, the first sequence, and the first blank time period, wherein the candidate nuclei to be scanned is different from the scanning nuclei corresponding to the first sequence. The scanning module is used to perform magnetic resonance scanning on the second sequence during the first blank time period.

8. The system as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The target kernel identification module is also used for: Obtain the first gyromagnetic ratio of the scanning nucleus corresponding to the first sequence; For each of the candidate nuclei to be scanned, the gyromagnetic ratio of the candidate nuclei to be scanned is obtained, and at least one second gyromagnetic ratio is obtained; The target nucleus to be scanned is selected based on the first gyromagnetic ratio, the at least one second gyromagnetic ratio, and preset conditions.

9. A scanning device for a multi-nuclear magnetic resonance system, characterized in that, The device includes: At least one storage medium that stores computer instructions; At least one processor executes the computer instructions to implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. A computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions that, when read by a computer, execute the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

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