International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) workshop on WHATEVER: WHite Matter, Analysis, Translation, Experimental Validation, Evaluation, and Reproducibility

New York University School Of Medicine, New York NY

Investigators

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY Diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) are a significant public health and economic problem, affecting nearly one in three Americans at some point in life, with a cost exceeding $500 billion per year. Pathologically, the white matter integrity is compromised in virtually all human neurological diseases/injuries. Quantitative MRI (qMRI) methods hold the promise of improved diagnosis and monitoring of white matter disorders. Despite great advances in the development of sophisticated qMRI methods, their translation into clinic is still in its infancy. This is a critically important time to develop and establish best practices for qMRI in white matter disorders, and it is essential for researchers to come together to share knowledge and map the next phase of qMRI research and its translation into the clinic. The International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) workshop on WHATEVER: WHite Matter, Analysis, Translation, Experimental Validation, Evaluation & Reproducibility, will be held in Nashville, Tenessee, September 18-20, 2023. The overall aim of the WHATEVER workshop is to review state-of-the-art qMRI methods, technical aspects and clinical applications, and focus on bridging the gap between research and clinical implementation. Reproducible research facilitates clinical translation and will be promoted throughout this workshop, which is organized by the White Matter with strong input from the Reproducible Research Study group. By joining forces, we will create an interdisciplinary environment where plenary lectures will be supplemented by hands-on tutorials and collaborative project ideas. This in-person workshop offers a unique opportunity for one-on-one discussions, informal networking, and interaction between trainees and established researchers, MD and PhDs. A panel of experts will lead a discussion on reproducibility in white matter: remaining barriers and how to break them down. The scientific program focuses on qMRI methods to study white matter from different angles: macrostructure (relaxation), microstructure (diffusion, susceptibility) and metabolism (CEST, spectroscopy and X-nuclei). In each session, a physicist/engineer and physician will provide an overview of state-of-the-art methods, highlight promising avenues and interesting clinical applications. Poster presentations are an integral part of the program and will be advertised in power pitch presentations. This proposal requests funds to (i) support invited speakers by waiving their registrations to enable an excellent and diverse program and (ii) support student and early investigator by waived registration and travel reimbursement to enhance diversity in conference attendance (including women, underrepresented minorities, students with disabilities, and people from disadvantaged backgrounds) and provide minority groups with a unique opportunity to reach an international audience for career development and collaborations.