CEST protocols

CrCEST Tutorial Video
This tutorial video is intended for researchers and clinicians seeking to implement or better understand CrCEST imaging in a practical setting. It begins by detailing how the maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) is performed as part of the exercise protocol. The video then demonstrates patient positioning, the exercise setup, and the MRI scanner and hardware configuration. It also explains how the CrCEST scan is carried out via the system interface. Finally, the video includes a software tutorial that showcases our custom MATLAB code used for image reconstruction and quantification.

CrCEST Equipment List
This section outlines the equipment featured in the CrCEST tutorial video, used for high-field MRI data acquisition, in-scanner exercise, and post-processing:

• MRI Scanner – Siemens Magnetom Terra 7T, an ultra-high-field MRI system used for CrCEST imaging
• Volume Coil – 1 Tx / 28 Rx Knee Coil (7T) by Quality Electrodynamics, optimized for lower limb imaging
• Force Sensor – Loadsol, a wireless in-shoe force sensor by Novel Electronics Inc., used to determine and monitor maximum voluntary contraction (MVC).
• Exercise Ergometer – Trispect Model by Ergospect, designed for MR-compatible plantar flexion exercise .
• Exercise Recording – a 2-minute pacing track used to guide exercise timing inside the scanner. The 20 bpm audio cue ensures a consistent contraction rhythm throughout the 2-minute exercise period, critical for standardized CrCEST acquisition.
• Software Platform – MATLAB R2024, developed by MathWorks, used for scan control and post-processing.
• Custom MATLAB Scripts – In-house software developed for CrCEST image reconstruction and quantitative analysis.