Spatial resolution enhancement using sensitivity-encoded echo-planar imaging at 3T in a typical motor paradigm
We employ a single-shot sensitivity-encoded (SENSE) gradient-echo EPI acquisition in order to enhance spatial resolution in a typical motor fMRI experiment at 3T. Functional time series were acquired with an acquisition matrix size of 56192 within a readout time of 82ms, yielding an effective in-plane resolution of 0.94mm0.94mm and compared to a conventional acquisition. Our data suggest that fMRI can readily be performed with a spatial resolution adapted to detailed cortical functional topography. However, in all potential applications the specific behavior of spatial specificity and statistical sensitivity needs to be taken into account.
gradient-echo epi fmri parallel imaging sensitivity encoding bold contrast