Datasets:

id
stringlengths
6
14
question
stringlengths
27
341
golden_answers
listlengths
1
1
choices
listlengths
4
4
metadata
dict
q_PIQUIZ_10
Artifacts specific to parallel imaging include all of the following except
[ 2 ]
[ "Coil sensitivity artifacts", "Fold-over (SENSE) ghosts", "Chemical shift", "Spatially dependent noise" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Chemical shift artifacts are unaffected by the PI reconstruction process and are thus not unique." }
q_RAPIDQ_00
Fast/Turbo Spin-Echo Imaging methods are commercial applications of which original technique?
[ 0 ]
[ "RARE", "MEDIUM", "ROAST", "SMASH" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Fast spin echo (FSE) imaging, also known as Turbo spin echo (TSE) imaging, are commercial implementations of the RARE (Rapid Acquisition with Relaxation Enhancement) technique originally described by Hennig et al in 1986." }
q_RAPIDQ_01
Which notation best describes the FSE/TSE technique?
[ 1 ]
[ "90º−180º−echo−90º−180º−echo−90º−180º−echo−…..", "90º−180º−echo−180º−echo−180º−echo−180º−echo−…..", "90º−180º−echo−echo−echo−echo−…..", "90º−180º−echo−90º−echo−180º−echo−90º−echo−180º−echo−….." ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The FSE/TSE pulse sequence uses a series of 180º-refocusing pulses after a single 90º-pulse to generate a train of echoes." }
q_RAPIDQ_02
Advantages of FSE/TSE over conventional spin-echo imaging include all except
[ 0 ]
[ "Decreased tissue energy deposition", "Reduced susceptibility artifacts", "Reduced imaging time", "Increased resolution or signal-to-noise in same imaging time" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "FSE/TSE offers significant reduction of imaging time by scanning multiple lines of k-space nearly simultaneously. This savings may be used to lengthen TR, allowing more time for recovery of longitudinal magnetization and hence improved signal-to-noise. A higher number of phase-encoding steps may be used, allowing improvement in spatial resolution. Susceptibility-induced signal losses are reduced. However, the multiple 180º deposit considerable energy in tissue, leading to high specific absorption rates (SARs)." }
q_RAPIDQ_03
What is the main conceptual structural difference between FSE/TSE and Multi-echo Conventional Spin Echo (multi-CSE) sequences?
[ 2 ]
[ "The number of 90º-pulses within a TR interval", "The pattern of 90º- and 180º-RF pulses within a TR interval", "The pattern of phase-encoding gradients within a TR interval", "The pattern of frequency-encoding gradients within a TR interval" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The FSE/TSE technique changes the phase-encoding gradient for each of these echoes (a multi-CSE sequence collects all echoes in a train with the same phase encoding)." }
q_RAPIDQ_04
What is the effective echo time (TEeff)?
[ 3 ]
[ "The time between the 90º-pulse and first echo", "The time between the 90º-pulse and last echo", "The time between successive echoes in the train", "The time between the 90º-pulse and echo obtained at the center of k-space" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The effective echo time (TEeff) is the time at which the central line of k-space (ky = 0) is being filled." }
q_RAPIDQ_05
What is the echo spacing (ESP)?
[ 2 ]
[ "The time between the 90º-pulse and first 180º-pulse", "The time between the 90º-pulse and last echo", "The time between successive echoes in the train", "The time between the 90º-pulse and echo obtained at the center of k-space" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The echo spacing is the time between any two successive echoes." }
q_RAPIDQ_06
What is the echo train length (ETL) or turbo factor (TF)?
[ 0 ]
[ "The number of echoes in a TR interval", "The time between echoes in a TR interval", "The number of RF pulses in a TR interval", "The number of RF pulses required to reach the center of k-space" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "ETL or TF is simply the number of echoes in a FSE train between successive 90º-pulses. Imaging time is reduced proportionally by this factor." }
q_RAPIDQ_07
If a conventional spin-echo sequence with a certain TR/TE/spatial resolution takes 8 minutes to perform, an otherwise identical FSE sequence with an echo train length (turbo factor) of 8 would take how long?
[ 0 ]
[ "1 minute", "2 minutes", "4 minutes", "8 minutes" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "With an ETL/TF = 8, 8 lines of k-space are transversed for each TR interval, reducing imaging time by a factor of 1/8." }
q_RAPIDQ_08
What image changes would not occur with increasing echo train length (ETL) or turbo factor (TF)?
[ 1 ]
[ "Greater T2-weighting", "Increased signal-to-noise", "Spatial blurring", "Higher signal from fat" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Longer ETL's are associated with a decrease in overall signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) because the later echoes in the train are smaller in amplitude." }
q_RAPIDQ_09
What image changes would not be seen with increasing echo spacing (ESP)?
[ 3 ]
[ "Increased motion artifacts", "Increased susceptibility artifacts", "Increased edge-related artifacts", "Increased signal-to-noise" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Increasing echo spacing (ESP) permits the use of longer TE's but adversely impacts SNR and CNR. Motion, susceptibility, and edge-related artifacts increase. In general, increased ESP has predominantly deleterious consequences on image quality; the shortest permitted ESP should therefore be chosen in most applications Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_RAPIDQ_10
What is the reason fat looks brighter on FSE/TSE than on Conventional SE images?
[ 1 ]
[ "FSE/TSE have more intrinsic T1-weighting", "Multiple FSE/TSE 180º-pulses disrupt J-coupling in fat molecules", "Rapid phase-encode gradient switching inf FSE/TSE disrupts diffusion of fatty acids", "It’s just a visual illusion; the absolute fat signal is unchanged." ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Although several factors may contribute to the FSE \"bright fat\" phenomenon, the dominant mechanism is thought to be T2 prolongation secondary to disruption of J-coupling interactions that take normally place between adjacent fat protons." }
q_RAPIDQ_11
Comparing FSE/TSE and CSE, which statement is false?
[ 0 ]
[ "FSE/TSE shows increased sensitivity to susceptibility changes.", "FSE/TSE demonstrates increased magnetization transfer effects.", "FSE/TSE demonstrates spatial blurring", "FSE/TSE demonstrates pseudo-edge enhancement" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "FSE/TSE sequences are less sensitive to susceptibility changes, as the 180°-refocusing pulses occurring at very short intervals allow relatively little time for susceptibility-induced dephasing." }
q_RAPIDQ_12
Which pulse would be considered a driven-equilibrium pulse if played at the end of an MR sequence?
[ 2 ]
[ "+90º", "+180º", "−90º", "−180º" ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "Driven equilibrium (DE), also known as fast recovery, is technique in which a −90º \"flip-back\" pulse is used to help restore longitudinal magnetization at the end of an MR sequence." }
q_RAPIDQ_13
Comparing the tissue energy deposition of RF-pulses, which is true?
[ 3 ]
[ "Both 90º- and 180º-pulses deposit approximately the same energy", "A 180º-pulse deposits twice the energy as a 90º-pulse.", "A 180º-pulse deposits half the energy as a 90º-pulse.", "A 180º-pulse deposits four times the energy as a 90º-pulse." ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Energy deposition from an RF-pulse is proportional to the square of the flip angle (α²). Thus, a 180°-pulse deposits 4x the energy of a 90°-pulse." }
q_RAPIDQ_14
Which pulse sequence feature is not commonly implemented as described in 3D-FSE sequences like CUBE/SPACE/VISTA?
[ 1 ]
[ "Very short TE’s (2-4 ms)", "Medium length echo trains (Turbo factors 8-16)", "Reduced flip angles", "Partial Fourier imaging with zero-interpolation filling." ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "3D-FSE sequences use extremely long echo trains, with perhaps 100-200 echoes. Other features include non-selective RF pulses, parallel imaging, and optimized k-space trajectories." }
q_RAPIDQ_15
Why is a zig-zag k-space trajectory commonly used for echo planar imaging instead of a consistent Cartesian (left to right) trajectory as in spin-echo imaging?
[ 2 ]
[ "It offers better spatial resolution.", "It has fewer artifacts.", "It is faster to perform.", "It is done in the phase-encode direction rather than frequency-encode direction." ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The zig-zag trajectory is popular because it is easy to program and faster, as it doesn’t require rewinding the readout gradient back to −kmax after each echo. The spatial resolution is the same, and the zig-zag is prone to more artifacts, like Nyquist N/2 ghosts." }
q_RAPIDQ_16
All of the following statements about single-shot FSE (HASTE) are true except
[ 0 ]
[ "Gradient echo signal generation is used for speed.", "The total number of echoes may exceed 200.", "Phase-conjugate symmetry is exploited to limit phase-encode steps.", "Common applications include MR cholangiography and MR myelography." ]
{ "subject": "K-space and Rapid Imaging Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Implicit in its name SS-FSE/HASTE is a fast-spin echo technique, meaning that spin-echoes, not gradient echoes are recorded." }
q_1_00
When the current flowing through a wire reverses direction, the magnetic field around the wire
[ 3 ]
[ "Does not change", "Increases", "Disappears", "Reverses direction" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Ampère’s Law states that a current (i) in a wire induces a magnetic field (B) around the wire. if the direction of current flow reverses, the direction of the field does also, so d) is correct. The magnitude of the field depends on the magnitude of the current, so b) and c) are false. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_01
The bulk magnetic properties of matter derive primarily from
[ 2 ]
[ "Protons", "Neutrons", "Electrons", "Whole nuclei" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The combination of intrinsic electron spin and electron orbital angular momentum is primarily responsible for the bulk magnetic properties of matter. Protons, neutrons, and whole nuclei possess spin but the size of the magnetic effect is relatively small and limited to juxta-nuclear region of the atom only. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_02
If the current in a wire doubles, the induced magnetic field
[ 0 ]
[ "Doubles", "Quadruples", "Remains the same", "Is reduced by half" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Ampère’s Law states that a current (i) in a wire induces a magnetic field (B) around the wire proportional to that current. If the current doubles, the magnitude of B also doubles. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_03
The direction of magnetic field lines surrounding a wire can be determined using
[ 0 ]
[ "The right-hand rule", "The left-hand rule", "Faraday's Law", "Lenz' Law" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Fleming developed the right hand rule in which if you grasp a wire carrying current with the right hand and point your thumb in the direction of the current, your fingers will curl around the wire in the direction of the induced magnetic field. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_04
The voltage induced across a stationary conductor in an external static magnetic field
[ 2 ]
[ "Depends on the angle of the conductor with the magnetic field", "Increases with time", "Is zero", "Depends on the strength of the magnetic field" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "This is an example of the Faraday-Lenz Law, where the induced voltage is directly proportional to the rate of change of the magnetic field (dB/dt). In this case both the conductor and magnetic field are static, so dB/dt = 0 an the induced voltage is zero. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_05
Concerning the relationship between electricity and magnetism, which of the following statements is false?
[ 2 ]
[ "A constant current in a wire induces a constant magnetic field around the wire.", "A changing current in a wire induces a changing magnetic field around the wire.", "A constant magnetic field induces voltage in a nearby stationary wire.", "A changing magnetic field induces voltage in a nearby wire." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Ampère’s Law states that a current (i) in a wire induces a magnetic field (B) around the wire. If the current is constant, the magnetic field is constant, but if the current fluctuates, so will the magnetic field. Thus (a) and (b) are true." }
q_1_06
Which question about the Tesla (T) is correct?
[ 3 ]
[ "It is the official unit for magnetic induction field strength in the cgs system.", "1 Tesla = 1,000 Gauss (G)", "1 G = 1 mT", "It is one of the coolest cars on the road" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The Tesla is the unit for magnetic induction field strength in the International System of Units (SI), formerly known as the mks (meter-kilogram-second) system. Gauss is the equivalent unit in the cgs (centimeter-gram-second) system, so a) is false. 1 Tesla = 10,000 G, and 1 G = 0.1 mT, so both b) and c) are false. This leaves option d) as the correct answer, which everyone knows anyway! Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_07
Concerning magnetic field strengths, which statement is true?
[ 0 ]
[ "The earth's magnetic field is about 0.5 G.", "A junkyard electromagnet that picks up cars is much stronger than the main field of most MR scanners.", "Research MR scanners for humans now exist with field strengths exceeding 20 T.", "Higher field strength scanners have wider bores than lower field strength scanners to accommodate the extra flux lines" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The earth’s magnetic field at the equator is about 0.5 G, so a) is the correct answer. Junkyard electromagnets generally have field strengths of about 1T, limited by the flux density of steel, so they are much weaker than most MR scanners, and thus b) is false. The largest current human scanners are 11.7T, so c) is false. Higher field strength scanners have smaller bores, not larger ones, so d) is false. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_08
Which of the following materials is paramagnetic?
[ 3 ]
[ "Water", "Fat", "Bone", "Air" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Most biological tissues (including water, fat, and bone) are weakly diamagnetic. Molecular O2 is paramagnetic, overwhelming the weak diamagnetism of the other components of air N2 and CO2. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_09
A material that is weakly repulsed by a magnetic field is known as
[ 1 ]
[ "Paramagnetic", "Diamagnetic", "Superparamagnetic", "Ferromagnetic" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Diamagnetic materials generate an internal polarization (J) that opposes the externally applied field, so b) is correct. The polarization of the other classes of materials is in the direction of the field and are attracted by the field. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_10
Susceptibility (χ) is negative for materials that are
[ 2 ]
[ "Paramagnetic", "Superparamagnetic", "Diamagnetic", "Ferromagnetic" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Susceptibility (χ) is negative when the internal polarization (J) points opposite to the main magnetic field (B). By definition, only diamagnetic materials have negative susceptibilities. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_11
Ferromagnetic materials form magnetic ________ when arrays of electron spins become linked via quantum exchange interaction.
[ 3 ]
[ "Flux lines", "Poles", "Vectors", "Domains" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "Exchange interaction is a quantum effect in which unpaired electrons link together to form individual magnetic domains which behave as individual small \"magnets\". Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_1_12
Comparing superparamagnetic and ferromagnetic materials, which statement is false?
[ 2 ]
[ "Ferromagnetism is usually more powerful than superparamagnetism.", "Ferromagnetism persists when the magnetizing field is removed.", "Superparamagnetism persists once the external field is removed.", "Superparamagnetism can be thought of as a single-domain particle." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Ferromagnetic materials retain memory (remenance) of prior magnetization, while superparamagnetic particles are single domain but whose magnetization disappears once the the magnetizing field is removed. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_2_00
The most common design configuration for clinical MR scanners is
[ 1 ]
[ "Open bore superconducting", "Closed bore superconducting", "Open bore permanent", "Dipolar electromagnet" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Over 90% of MR scanners sold today are of the closed bore (cylindrical) superconducting type. The second most common is open bore permanent." }
q_2_01
The highest field strength permitted for adults in routine clinical practice by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is
[ 2 ]
[ "3.0 Tesla", "7.0 Tesla", "8.0 Tesla", "11.7 Tesla" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The current FDA limit for clinical MR scanners is 8.0 T for adults and children older than 1 month; it is 4.0 T for children younger than 1 month. The highest field strength clinical scanner commercially manufactured are 7.0 T, although human-sized research scanners of up to 11.7 T exist. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_2_02
The first company to produce a clinical whole-body MRI scanner for commercial use was
[ 1 ]
[ "GE", "Fonar", "Siemens", "Technicare" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Raymond Damadian formed the first company FONAR to manufacture MR scanners for clinical use in 1982." }
q_2_03
The direction of the main magnetic field (Bo) in a cylindrical closed bore scanner is
[ 0 ]
[ "Longitudinal (along the main axis) of the cylinder", "Horizontal (cross-wise to the cylinder and parallel to the floor)", "Vertical (cross-wise to the cylinder and perpendicular to the floor)", "Can be at any angle depending on which gradients are turned on" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The main magnetic field of cylindrical scanners is along the long axis of the cylinder (solenoid). Answer d) is patently false as gradients do not alter the direction of the (Bo) field." }
q_2_04
Which of the following is not an advantage of low- and intermediate-field (< 1.0 T) MR scanners?
[ 2 ]
[ "Lower price", "Lower fringe field", "Improved detection of gadolinium enhancement", "Lower energy deposition in tissues" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Gadolinium enhancement relative to tissues is reduced at lower fields, a disadvantage." }
q_2_05
Which of the following is not an advantage of high-field (≥ 1.0 T) MR scanners?
[ 2 ]
[ "Higher signal-to-noise", "Better detection of calcifications and hemorrhage", "Smaller artifacts around metallic implants", "Better magnetic field homogeneity" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Susceptibility artifacts around metal objects are worse at high fields than at lower fields." }
q_2_06
Quoted specifications for four different magnets are given below. Which one has the best homogeneity?
[ 0 ]
[ "<1 ppm over a 40 cm DSV", "<1 ppm over a 20 cm DSV", ">1 ppm over a 40 cm DSV", ">1 ppm over a 20 cm DSV" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "Homogeneity specifications are typically quoted as magnetic field deviation in parts per million (ppm) over a defined spherical volume (DSV). So a magnet with the smallest ppm over the largest DSV would be the most homogeneous — answer a). Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_2_08
Which of the following statements about passive shimming is true?
[ 2 ]
[ "Its primary purpose is to correct for field distortions produced by a patient's body.", "Ferromagnetic materials cannot be used for passive shimming.", "Passive shimming is affected by room temperature.", "Once the field is calibrated and magnetic homogeneity achieved, the passive shim materials can be removed." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Passive shimming involves the placement of ferromagnetic elements (typically plates or rods to correct for static field inhomogeneities in an empty magnet, not one containing a patient. Thus a) and b) are both false. The shim elements are made of metal and hence the quality of shimming depends upon scanner and room temperature, so answer c) is true. The shim elements are not removed, but remain in the magnet after shimming is completed, so d) is false. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_2_09
Which of the following statements about superconductivity is correct?
[ 2 ]
[ "All elements can become superconducting if the temperature is low enough.", "Only metals can become superconductors.", "The magnetic field is zero inside the center of a superconducting wire.", "The resistance of a wire linearly decreases toward zero as the temperature falls below the transition temperature (TC)." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Only about half of the known elements can become superconductive at low temperatures, so a) is incorrect. Most of these are metals or metal alloys, but some non-metal ceramics may also possess superconductivity. The onset of superconductivity is immediate, with resistance dropping to zero once the transition temperature is crossed; thus answer d) is false. The correct answer is c), which describes the Meissner effect, the complete expulsion of all magnetic fields from the interior of the superconductor with creation of a state of perfect diamagnetism." }
q_2_10
The superconducting component in the main windings of nearly all clinical MR scanners is an alloy of
[ 0 ]
[ "Niobium (Nb) and Titanium (Ti)", "Niobium (Nb) and Copper (Cu)", "Nickel (Ni) and Titanium (Ti)", "Nickel (Ni) and Copper (Cu)" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The main windings of nearly all clinical superconducting scanners use Niobium (Nb) - Titanium (Ti) alloy microfilaments embedded in a copper core. The copper core is not superconducting but serves to support the microfilaments and serve as a current shunt in the event of a quench." }
q_2_11
The cryostat of a typical superconducting MR scanner contains all of the following except
[ 1 ]
[ "Liquid helium", "Liquid nitrogen", "Main magnet windings", "superconducting shim coils" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Although common in the past, modern refrigeration systems have obviated the need for liquid nitrogen, so only liquid helium is present within the cryostat of today's MR scanners." }
q_2_12
The temperature of liquid helium is approximately
[ 0 ]
[ "4 °K", "0 °K", "−4 °K", "−400 °C" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The temperature of liquid helium used to cool the magnet main windings is just a few degrees above absolute zero, about 4 °K. This is several degrees less than the transition temperature needed to maintain superconductivity in the NbTi alloy wires. No temperature equal or below absolute zero (0 °K or −273.15 °C) is possible, so answers b), c) and d) are all false." }
q_2_13
MRI facilities often display a sign on the door that says: "Warning! The magnet is always on." This sign would not strictly apply to a
[ 0 ]
[ "Resistive magnet scanner", "Permanent magnet scanner", "Superconducting magnet scanner", "The sign is applicable to all types of scanners, always." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Only FONAR still make still makes a resistive (electromagnet-type) MR scanner for human use, which can be turned off when not in use. All permanent magnet and superconductive scanners remain at full field strength at all times, however, so the sign applies to nearly all MR facilities. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_2_14
Pushing the "big red button" near the door to a room housing an MRI scanner
[ 1 ]
[ "Immediately opens the door even if scanning is in progress", "Initiates a controlled quench of the magnetic field", "Turns off all electric power to the scanner and room", "Calls emergency providers (911) and sounds an alarm" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The \"big red button\" is often labeled \"Magnet Stop\" or \"Emergency Run Down\" and when pressed, initiates a controlled quench of the magnetic field. It should be used only in a life-threatening emergency, such as a patient pinned in the scanner by a metal object." }
q_2_15
During a magnetic quench, why should patients and employees be evacuated from the scan room?
[ 1 ]
[ "Even in small quantities gaseous helium causes burning and irritation to the eyes.", "Asphyxiation may occur.", "Severe frostbite would be likely.", "The released helium may catch fire or explode." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Helium is odorless and colorless, but can potentially fill the scanner room resulting in asphyxiation. Fortunately, quench pipes typically vent nearly all released helium out of the room so death from a quench has never occurred in a medical setting to my knowledge. Direct contact with liquid helium would cause burns, but a mist of helium gas would not likely cause eye injury or frostbite (although this could occur in theory with high concentrations of gas in the room). Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_3_00
Magnetic field gradients for imaging are typically measured in units of
[ 0 ]
[ "Millitesla per meter (mT/m)", "Gauss per second (G/s)", "Tesla (T)", "Tesla per meter per second (T/m-s)" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "A magnetic field gradient is defined as the change in magnetic field measured over a certain distance, so the only appropriate unit is answer a), millitesla per meter= [magnetic field strength]/distance. Gradient strength is also reported in Gauss/cm (G/cm)." }
q_3_01
For a supine patient, enabling the z-gradient alone to alter the magnetic field within a patient during slice selection would create a(n)
[ 0 ]
[ "Axial slice", "Coronal slice", "Sagittal slice", "Oblique slice" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Applying a single gradient causes a frequency variation of protons as a function of position along the direction of the gradient. This change in frequency can be used for spatial encoding. If the gradient is played out during slice selection and again during signal readout, a slice can be selected perpendicular to the gradient directio Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_3_02
What is the effect of applying the x- and z-gradients simultaneously during slice selection?
[ 2 ]
[ "The image will be distorted.", "Significant interslice cross-talk will occur.", "An oblique slice will be created.", "The scanner will display a warning that such a combination is not allowed." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Applying a single gradient during slice selection creates a slice perpendicular to the axis of the gradient. Applying two (or three) gradients simultaneously produces single (or double) oblique slices respectively." }
q_3_03
When the y-gradient is turned on, what happens to the direction of the main (Bo) field?
[ 3 ]
[ "The Bo field now points slightly to the right.", "The Bo field now points slightly toward the ceiling.", "The Bo field is reversed.", "The Bo field remains pointing in its original (z)-direction." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Gradients do NOT generate transverse components that rotate/tip Bo from side-to-side or up-and-down. They act only to create in-plane \"skewing\" of the z-components of Bo." }
q_3_04
The basic coil configuration used to generate the z-gradient in a cylindrical MR scanner is known as
[ 0 ]
[ "Maxwell pair.", "Double saddle.", "Golay.", "Fingerprint." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Z-gradients are typically produced using two looped coils carrying current in opposite directions, a configuration known as the Maxwell pair. The other coil types listed are used primarily for x- and y-gradients." }
q_3_05
Which of the following statements about eddy currents is false?
[ 2 ]
[ "They create a wide range of image artifacts, including ghosts and blurring.", "They are a manifestation of Faraday's Law of induction.", "They especially affect traditional spin-echo sequences with long TE's.", "They create tissue heating." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Eddy currents are produced rapidly changing magnetic fields (especially from the switching of imaging gradients) and are thus a manifestation of Faraday's Law. They are typically seen with rapid gradient echo or echo-planar sequences using short TE's; hence answer c) is false. They are uniformly undesirable, creating various artifacts and tissue heating problems." }
q_3_06
Concerning actively shielded gradients, which statement is true?
[ 3 ]
[ "The are the most effective way to reduce eddy currents in superconducting systems.", "The are the most effective way to reduce eddy currents in superconducting systems.", "Current in these coils runs in a direction opposite to their associated imaging gradients.", "All of the above are true." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Active shielded gradients are nearly universally used in superconducting scanners because of their high effectiveness in reducing eddy currents in the magnet itself. They do not affect eddy currents generated in tissues, however." }
q_3_07
Which of the following methods is not used to reduce eddy currents:
[ 2 ]
[ "Actively shielded gradients.", "Self-shielded gradients.", "Active shimming coils.", "Pre-compensation." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The terms “Actively shielded” and “self-shielded” gradients are synonymous, and are the most effective way to reduce eddy currents. Pre-compensation distortion of waveforms is also helpful. Active shimming coils are used to make the main magnetic field more homogeneous and have nothing to do with eddy currents or their correction." }
q_3_08
Typical values for peak gradient strength in a modern 1.5 T scanner are in the range of
[ 1 ]
[ "1-10 mT/m.", "20-50 mT/m.", "200-400 mT/m.", "500-1000 mT/m." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Lower field strength permanent magnets have peak gradients in the range of 15-25 mT/m." }
q_3_09
The time for a gradient to ramp from zero to its maximum value is known as its
[ 0 ]
[ "Rise time.", "Gradient time.", "Slew rate.", "Duty cycle." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "This is the definition of rise time." }
q_3_10
The definition of gradient slew rate is
[ 2 ]
[ "Peak gradient strength ÷ main field strength (Bo).", "Peak gradient strength ÷ total time the gradient is on.", "Peak gradient strength ÷ Rise time.", "The number of times a gradient is turned on and off per second." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Slew rate is defined to be Peak gradient strength ÷ Rise time." }
q_3_11
The units for slew rate are given in
[ 1 ]
[ "Millitesla per meter (mT/m).", "Tesla per meter per second (T/m/s).", "Tesla per second (T/s).", "Milliseconds (ms)." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Peak gradient strength is typically measured in mT/m and rise time is measured in ms. Their ratio, slew rate, therefore has units T/m/s." }
q_3_12
Typical maximum slew rate values quoted for modern 1.5 T scanners are in the range of
[ 2 ]
[ "1−2 T/m/s.", "10−20 T/m/s.", "100−200 T/m/s.", "1000−2000 T/m/s." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "Answer c) is correct. Slew rates much higher than this can be obtained in research scanners but are limited due to the risk of peripheral nerve stimulation by the rapidly switching gradients." }
q_3_13
A gradient that ramps from 0 to a peak amplitude of 30 mT/m in 0.25 ms has a slew rate of
[ 3 ]
[ "30 T/m/s.", "60 T/m/s.", "90 T/m/s.", "120 T/m/s." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "Slew rate = [Peak gradient strength] ÷ [Rise time] = [30 mT/m] ÷ [0.25 ms] = 120 T/m/s." }
q_3_14
Which gradient specification is generally the most important when assessing how well an MR system is capable of performing rapid, high-resolution imaging?
[ 1 ]
[ "Peak gradient strength.", "Slew rate.", "Rise time.", "Magnetic field strength." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The slew rate incorporates both peak gradient strength and rise time into its definition and is the best single gradient specification to consider. Static magnetic field strength is an important consideration for high-resolution imaging but is not a gradient specification." }
q_3_15
How many sets of paired physical gradients are present in an MR scanner?
[ 2 ]
[ "1", "2", "3", "6" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Three sets of paired primary gradients are present in all MR scanners, producing field distortions along the three cardinal directions (x, y, and z). Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_3_16
Which of the following statements about gradient duty cycle is false
[ 3 ]
[ "It is commonly measured in percent (%).", "It represents the fraction of time that the gradient works at maximum amplitude.", "Its value depends on the pulse sequence timing parameters and number of slices.", "Its value is independent of the type of pulse sequence (SE, IR, etc)." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The duty cycle is defined as the percent time a gradient works at maximum amplitude during a pulse sequence. Its value will therefore vary with the pulse sequence and timing parameters, so d) is false. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_3_17
Which of the following statements about the gradient subsystem is true
[ 1 ]
[ "The gradient coils are located within the cryostat.", "Gradient coils generate considerable heat during operation.", "The gradient coils are cooled by liquid helium.", "Increasing power supplied to a gradient decreases the slope of the gradient." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Gradient systems are not superconducting and are not located within the cryostat. They do generate considerable heat and typically require water and air cooling (though not cooling by liquid helium). Increasing power to a gradient increases (rather than decreases) its strength/slope. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_4_00
Which coils are located closest to the patient in an MR scanner?
[ 1 ]
[ "Gradient coils.", "RF-receiver coils.", "Shim coils.", "Body RF-transmit coils." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "RF-receiver coils are placed closest to the patient so they may detect the MR signal with highest sensitivity." }
q_4_01
In the construction of a superconducting MR magnet, which is the correct order of coils from outermost to innermost?
[ 2 ]
[ "Main magnet windings, gradient coils, RF coils, shielding coils.", "Gradient coils, shield coils, main magnet windings, RF coils.", "Shielding coils, main magnet windings, gradient coils, RF coils.", "RF coils, shield coils, main magnet windings, gradient coils." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Shielding coils are the outermost coils. Their function is to reduce the external fringe fields from the main magnet windings, the next coil encountered. Next come resistive shim coils used to improve magnet homogeneity. Then the gradients, then the RF transmit coils, and finally the RF receiver coils (closest to the patient)." }
q_4_02
Although most local RF coils are "receive only", some specially designed to operate in "transmit-receive (T/R)" mode. T/R coils commonly offered by MR vendors include all of the following except
[ 3 ]
[ "Head coils.", "Knee coils.", "Spectroscopy coils.", "Spine coils." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Standard spine and body phased surface coil arrays are not offered for transmit/receive dual operation." }
q_4_03
A 1.5 T MR scanner has a base operating frequency of approximately 64 MHz. In the electromagnetic spectrum, this is considered to be in the range of
[ 1 ]
[ "Infrared frequencies.", "Radio frequencies.", "X-ray frequencies.", "Microwave frequencies." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "MRI operates in the same frequency range as those used for radio and TV transmission." }
q_4_04
Use of a single element surface coil placed directly on the patient offers which advantages?
[ 0 ]
[ "High signal-to-noise.", "Increased depth of penetration.", "Capability for larger fields-of-view.", "All of the above." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "A single element surface coil offers high signal-to-noise for receiving signals from voxels beneath the coil. The depth of penetration is limited, however, usually to less than 75% of the diameter of the coil. Larger FOV's are not possible, limited again by the size of the coil." }
q_4_05
Comparing 10 cm and 20 cm diameter surface coils, which of the following is false?
[ 2 ]
[ "The sensitive volume of the 20 cm coil is larger.", "The penetration depth of the 20 cm coil is greater.", "The 20 cm coil has higher signal-to-noise for voxels immediately under the coil.", "The 20 cm coil offers a larger field of view." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "For voxels immediately under the coil, the 10 cm coil would have superior SNR than for the 20 cm one. The other statements are all true." }
q_4_06
Comparing linear and quadrature coils
[ 2 ]
[ "Quadrature coils offer twice the signal-to-noise.", "Quadrature coils offer four times the signal-to-noise.", "Quadrature coils offer about 40% greater signal-to-noise.", "Quadrature coils are about 40% larger." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Quadrature coils can be the same size as linear coils, but offer a signal-to-noise ratio of approximately √2 (≈ 1.41), or about 40% greater than that of linear coils." }
q_4_07
A sinusoidal wave can be described by the equation S(t) = A sin (ωt − φ). The constant A represents
[ 2 ]
[ "Angular frequency.", "Difference in height between positive and negative peaks.", "Half the difference in height between positive and negative peaks.", "Phase shift." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "A is called the \"amplitude\" of the sinusoidal wave measured from zero to its maximum positive value. The full excursion between positive and negative peaks is 2A, so \"A\" is ½ this difference." }
q_4_08
An MR scanner employs three different magnetic fields— the main field (B0), gradient fields (G), and radiofrequency field (B1). In terms of relative strength from weakest to strongest, the proper ranking is
[ 0 ]
[ "B1 < G < B0", "G < B0 < B1", "G < B1 < B0", "B1 < B0 < G" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "The main magnetic field (B0) is by far the strongest, typically larger than 1 Tesla. Gradient fields are of intermediate strength with values in the mT range. Radiofrequency fields are the smallest, with B1 values on the order of 10−50 μT." }
q_4_09
Which of the following is not an advantage of parallel (multi-)transmit RF?
[ 2 ]
[ "Decreased RF-energy deposition in tissues.", "Reduced shading artifacts.", "Increased standing waves due to dielectric effect.", "More uniform excitation." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "Parallel transmit RF excitation offers many advantages, particularly as field strength increases, including improved homogeneous excitation and artifact reduction. The incorrect answer a) standing waves due to dielectric effect are decreased, not increased with parallel transmission." }
q_4_10
Comparing phased array and parallel array coils, which of the following is true?
[ 0 ]
[ "Both types of coils offer improved signal-to-noise and increased field-of-view.", "Overlap of coil elements is avoided in both types.", "Phased array coils are also known as switchable arrays.", "Both can be used equally well with parallel imaging acquisition methods." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Only answer a) is true. Overlap of coil elements is common design feature of phased array coil systems, but must be avoided in parallel arrays. Although some phased array coils are compatible with parallel imaging applications, most are not. Finally, phased and switchable arrays are not the same, the latter largely being abandoned 20+ years ago." }
q_4_11
Parallel imaging systems are composed of coil elements, segments, and channels. The proper transmission hierarchy beginning with the patient and proceeding upward through the processing chain is
[ 1 ]
[ "Elements → channels → segments", "Elements → segments → channels", "Elements → channels → segments", "Channels → elements → channels" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Proper order is given above." }
q_4_12
Advantages of parallel receiver coil arrays include all of the following except
[ 2 ]
[ "Increased signal-to-noise.", "Increased field-of-view.", "Ease of design.", "Reduced imaging time." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Parallel coil configurations offer all the advantages above, with the exception of ease of design. In fact, it is rather difficult to pack many small coils closely together in these arrays without significant magnetic interactions." }
q_4_13
The effective depth of penetration for signal reception from a 20 cm diameter single loop surface coil is approximately
[ 0 ]
[ "10−15 cm", "20−25 cm", "30−40 cm", "40−50 cm" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The penetration depth for reception from a simple loop RF surface coil is typically only about 50-75% of the coil's diameter. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_4_14
Concerning the main transmit RF-body coil, which statement is false?
[ 0 ]
[ "It is commonly used to receive the MR signal", "It is built into the scanner gantry housing and cannot be seen by the patient", "It is considered a transceiver coil, capable of both RF transmission and reception.", "Its transmission field (B1) is perpendicular to the main magnetic field (B0)." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The body coil is hidden within the scanner gantry housing. Its primary purpose is to transmit the B1 field which is perpendicular to B0. It is a transceiver coil capable of both RF transmission and reception. However, it is seldom used for reception because better signal-to-noise is obtained using surface coils for this purpose. Hence, answer a) is false. Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_5_00
Which of the following components of an MR system is typically not located in an adjoining equipment room?
[ 3 ]
[ "RF-power amplifiers", "Gradient amplifiers", "Helium pump", "Gradient coils" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Gradient coils are an integral part of the MR scanner itself and are not located in a separate equipment room." }
q_5_01
Where is the master computer located that controls the MR scanner and processes data into images?
[ 1 ]
[ "In the MR scanner room", "In the MR scanner control room", "In the nearby MR equipment room", "At least 25 meters distant from the main scanner to avoid interference" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The master computer is located at the scanner console in the control room immediately adjacent to the magnet room. Due to the shielding of the scanner, it does not need to be in a remote location (answer d is false). However, this is now starting to change and some commercial houses are starting to install it in the technical room." }
q_5_02
The function of the array processor is to
[ 1 ]
[ "Generate triggers for the array of RF-pulses and gradient waveforms used for imaging", "Reconstruct the raw NMR data into images", "Calculate RF frequency offsets and gradient strengths for desired slice selection and field-of-view", "Activate and/or disable various coil elements in an array" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The array processor is a special board within the main computer that operates the MR scanner. It is responsible for performing Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT) of the raw data and constructing the data into images." }
q_5_03
Which scanner is the heaviest (and would thus require the most floor support)?
[ 0 ]
[ "0.35 T Permanent magnet system", "0.6 T Resistive magnet system", "1.5 T Superconductive system", "3.0 T Superconductive system" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Permanent magnet systems may weigh over 35,000 pounds (16,000 kg), over 3 times more than a superconductive scanner." }
q_5_04
Which scanner is would have the lowest overall siting and operational costs?
[ 0 ]
[ "0.35 T Permanent magnet system", "0.6 T Resistive magnet system", "1.5 T Superconductive system", "3.0 T Superconductive system" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Notwithstanding additional siting costs regarding their weight as described in the previous question, permanent magnet scanners do not require cryogens nor a sophisticated chiller system, so their operational costs are extremely low. Their fringe fields are typically very small as well, allowing them to have much smaller room requirements. Resistive electromagnet scanners, by comparison, have high operational costs due to use of electricity and increased environmental cooling requirements. Superconducting scanners are the most expensive to site due to their size, fringe fields, and cooling requirements." }
q_5_05
Which component of a superconducting MR scanner does not require specialized cooling to maintain function?
[ 3 ]
[ "Main coil windings", "Gradient coils", "Gradient amplifiers", "Radiofrequency coils" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The main coil windings, of course maintained at superconducting temperatures by liquid helium. Both gradient coils and amplifiers get very hot and must be cooled by circulating water/antifreeze exchanged through chiller circuitry. Radiofrequency amplifiers are usually in the same cabinet as gradients and also require air and/or water cooling. The RF transmit coils themselves do get warm but require no separate cooling. The RF receive coils close to the patient do not heat up at all." }
q_5_06
The B0 field of an MR scanner is most homogeneous at
[ 2 ]
[ "At the opening (gantry) of the magnet", "At bore level about 1 meter directly in front of the magnet", "In the middle of the bore at isocenter", "On the outside of the magnet immediately against its wall" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The B0 field is most homogenous at magnet isocenter." }
q_5_07
Which scanner would have the largest fringe field?
[ 3 ]
[ "0.35 T Permanent magnet system", "0.6 T Resistive magnet system", "1.5 T Superconductive system", "3.0 T Superconductive system" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Fringe fields are generally directly related to field strength, so the higher the main field, the greater the fringe. Thus the correct answer is d). Magnet configuration also is important. Specifically, C-shaped magnets (the typical configuration for permanent scanners) have relatively low fringe fields." }
q_5_08
If one moves from 1 meter to 2 meters away from a magnet, the fringe field will be reduced by a factor of approximately
[ 3 ]
[ "√2", "2", "4", "8" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 3, "hint": "In theory the strength of a magnetic fringe field is inversely related to the third power of the distance (1/r³) from the magnet isocenter. Thus moving twice as far away from the magnet, the fringe field should fall by a factor of approximately 1/2³ = 1/8." }
q_5_09
The fringe fields of cylindrical superconducting magnet are highest
[ 2 ]
[ "In the x-direction (transverse and horizontal to the axis bore)", "In the y-direction (transverse and vertical to the axis bore)", "In the z-direction (along the axis bore)", "They are equal in all directions" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Fringe fields are significantly higher along the z-axis (the direction of B0)." }
q_5_10
The primary purpose for passive magnetic shielding is
[ 0 ]
[ "To reduce fringe magnetic fields outside the scanner room.", "To keep extraneous radiofrequency noise from entering the scanner room.", "To constrain the NMR signal to remain within the bore of the magnet for better reception.", "To reduce the effects of moving equipment (such as cars and elevators) from distorting the magnetic field." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Passive shielding typically involves placing iron posts or sheets of steel in selected places around scanner floor or wall to minimize fringe field extension outside the scanner room. Passive shielding is generally not necessary with modern self-shielded scanners unless they are closely space or near other sensitive equipment." }
q_5_11
Concerning passive shielding, which statement is true?
[ 2 ]
[ "It is performed by placing heavy copper plates along the walls of the scanner room.", "It is a method to reduce extraneous radiofrequency interference with the MR signal.", "It is more commonly required for 7.0T than for 1.5 T installations.", "Active shielding technology found in modern scanner design has not changed the need for it." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Passive shielding is a method to reduce fringe magnetic fields, so a) copper lining of the walls to reduce b) RF-interference are incorrect. It is more needed for higher field strength installations, so c) is true. Active shielding technology in modern scanners has reduced the need for passive methods, so d) is false." }
q_5_12
Passive magnetic shielding of the scanner room is typically achieved using sheets or rods made of
[ 1 ]
[ "Copper", "Iron", "Aluminum", "Lead" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "A ferromagnetic substance such as iron or steel is required to constrain the fringe field lines." }
q_5_13
The fringe magnetic field arising from an MR scanner
[ 3 ]
[ "Can be eliminated by active shielding.", "Can be eliminated by passive shielding.", "Can be reduced by radiofrequency shielding.", "None of the above." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Active and passive shielding can reduce, but not eliminate fringe fields. Radiofrequency shielding reduces noise but does not affect fringe fields Link to Q&A discussion" }
q_5_14
What is the “5 Gauss Line”?
[ 2 ]
[ "A place inside the scanner where x- and y-gradients differ in strength by less than 5 Gauss (5 mT).", "The boundary in an MRI center inside of which one’s credit cards will be erased.", "A fringe field line that may pose danger to patients with certain pacemakers", "A fringe field line in the scanner room safe for patients but which MR technologists should avoid crossing." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The 5-Gauss Line was established by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a boundary to which the unsuspecting public should not be exposed. The value was based on the fact that the reed switch in older pacemakers could be flipped by exposure to this level of stray magnetic field, potentially converting a patient’s demand pacemaker into asynchrony mode. It should be recognized that it is not just a line, but a surface that extends outward from the scanner in 3 dimensions. Thus it can extend into the floors above and below the scanner as well as to the sides." }
q_5_15
Which statement about ACR Safety Zones 1 and 2 is correct?
[ 0 ]
[ "Both Zones 1 and 2 lie outside the 5 Gauss line.", "Patient safety screening is required before entering Zone 2", "The general public should not be admitted to Zone 1; it is only for MR patients and their families.", "Patients with pacemakers can at risk if allowed to enter Zone 2." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Zone 1 is for the general public. Entry is generally restricted beginning in Zone 2, as this is where safety screening takes place. Both lie outside the 5 Gauss line and are safe for everyone." }
q_5_16
Which statement about ACR Safety Zone 3 is false?
[ 1 ]
[ "Patients should not be admitted to Zone 3 unless they have undergone safety screening.", "Ferromagnetic objects may not be brought into this area.", "The MR operator's console is located in this area.", "Medical personnel should not be admitted to this area unless they have undergone MR safety training." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Zone 3 includes areas within the 5-Gauss line, so all patients and family members need to be screened prior to entry. Zone 3 includes the area where the MR operator's console is located. The fringe fields in Zone 3 are sufficiently small that there is no risk for flying ferromagnetic objects to be propelled into the scanner. Nevertheless, there is generally easy direct access from Zone 3 into the scanner room (Zone 4) where dangerous flying objects can occur. Ferromagnetic objects in Zone 3 are discouraged but not forbidden; they certainly should not be brought near the door of the scanner room. For these reasons all medical personnel must be trained/educated in MR safety before being allowed into Zone 3." }
q_5_17
Which statement about ACR Safety Zone 4 is true?
[ 1 ]
[ "Accompanying family members should never be allowed access to Zone 4.", "Zone 4 is synonymous with the room containing the MR scanner.", "Zone 4 is includes the scanner, the operator's console, and equipment room (where gradient amplifiers are located).", "A locked door requiring badge, key, or combination access must be present and remain closed between Zone 3 and Zone 4 except when moving patients." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "Zone 4 is the scanner room itself, so b) is true and c) is false. Family members may be allowed in the scanner room provided they have been appropriately screened, so a) is false. The door to the scanner room is not locked and is frequently left open when scanning is not in progress (though we recommend having a strap across it to prevent inadvertent entry). Ferromagnetic materials should not be brought into Zone 4 as the risk of them being propelled into the scanner is high." }
q_5_18
Why might large trucks on a road 20 meters away from an MR scanner be of potential concern for siting?
[ 2 ]
[ "Their CB radios operate at the same frequencies as the MR signal.", "The scanner magnetic field can be affected by the dense iron in their chassis as they pass by.", "The physical vibrations they produce can affect image quality.", "At this distance heavy truck traffic should be of no concern at all." ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "Environmental vibrations can significantly affect scanner performance, and sites should undergo vibration testing prior to installation of a scanner. The frequent passage of heavy trucks on a nearby road would be one possible cause. Other vibration sources include nearby air conditioning equipment, motors, and building elevators. RF-interference from CB radios should not be a special problem, as these frequencies would normally be filtered out by standard RF-shielding. At a distance of 20 meters, moving metal should not cause a static field disturbance; however, this could be of concern if the trucks passed as close as 10 meters by." }
q_5_19
The loud noise produced by an MR system during a scan is primarily due to
[ 0 ]
[ "Vibrations of the gradient coils", "Vibrations of the radiofrequency coils", "Vibrations of the main magnet windings", "Vibrations from the chiller and helium pump" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 1, "hint": "The noise produced during a scan is primarily due to electromechanical vibrations generated by gradients as they are rapidly turned on and off during a pulse sequence. This is transmitted to other structures in the magnet housing that may also vibrate secondarily and amplify the noise." }
q_5_20
Which of the following sequences would likely generate the loudest noise during scanning?
[ 2 ]
[ "T2-weighted Turbo spin-echo (TSE) imaging of the spine", "Dixon fat-water imaging of the liver", "Echo-planar diffusion tensor imaging of the brain", "MR spectroscopy of the prostate" ]
{ "subject": "Magnets & Scanners Quiz", "level": 2, "hint": "The loudest sequences are those where gradients are switched on and off most rapidly, such as in echo-planar imaging and short TE gradient echo imaging." }