MRI Workshop in Pusan

Many KSMRM members gathered in Pusan in the past weekend (Fri-Sat) for an MRI technology workshop, in which 12 MR scientists (PhDs) presented reviews of various MR technologies in current use. The workshop had significant emphasis on education; many students attended for  lectures covering plenty of basic principles rather than just latest results. Dr. Lee presented his research on compact 3T MRI scanner from his time at GE. From the lab, Seulki and Seon-ha also attended. The workshop was well organized, and the all-Korean presentations were well-received and helpful to both beginners and experts in MRI. It was suggested that similar meetings be held more regularly, e.g. every two years.

Siemens Reference Site Symposium

As part of the on-going and expanding collaboration between CNIR and Siemens, last Friday in N Center there was a symposium on fast neuroimaging with a special guest lecture by Kawin Setsompop. Four Siemens representatives accompanied Kawin, and Director Kim hosted the guest from the morning hours to lunch. The Lecture was well attended and was presented with much information and clarity. A few interesting points were: "death of 2D", by which the speaker suggested that in neuroimaging fast 3D scans almost beat 2D scans in every aspect; the notion that simultaneous multi-slice imaging can be viewed as a kind of 3D imaging; and an indication that work is being underway or in contemplation to realize SMS without a multi-channel receiver array, which will be relevant for small animal imaging.

Kawin, originally from Thailand, is married to a Korean wife. After the N Center symposium, he went to Seoul for another lecture aimed at clinicians, and was about to continue his trip to go to China for a MRI research meeting. There is much indication that China is expanding facilities and research in MRI in recent years.