LET'S BREAK NEW GROUND TOGETHER ...
The AM-PET Helmet team is a truly collaborative effort among neuroscientists, medical engineers, industry specialists, and clinical experts.
Thanks to the BRAIN initiative planning grant, and your input, together we can build imagers that meet the needs of researchers, clinicians, and society as a whole.
The Team click image for bio
Dr. Julie Brefczynski-Lewis CONTACT PI, WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
As the one neuroscientist on the main team and contact PI, I help direct AMPET development towards the needs of researchers and clinicians in the field.
Stan Majewski presented data on Brookhaven Laboratory’s "Rat Cap" and Japan's "PET-Hat" at our Neuroimaging Group meeting. We received the Department of Energy's seed money (via Jefferson Lab) and successfully applied for internal pilot funding to build a human imager and collected pilot data. Shortly after the BRAIN initiative, the Next Generation Human Imager announcement came and the group came together to submit an eventually successful application.
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY
"This could fill a niche unreachable by fMRI, EEG or any current neuroimaging methods!"
Training+ Fellowships: Medical College of Wisconsin, Neurobiology; UW Madison
Relevant publications: AMPET: a brain initiative planning project to design a wearable, microdose pet imager. Brefczynski-Lewis, JA, Majewski, S, Manjeshwar, R, Stolin, A, Kinahan, P., Qi, J, Dolinsky, S, Harrison, R, Rishel, M. Elston, B. Gong, K, Vaigneur, K., Society for Neuroscience 2015.
Contact info: West Virginia University, Physiology & Pharmacology
(office) 304-293-4820
Dr. Stan Majewski, PhD CO-INVESTIGATOR, UNIVERSITY of VIRGINIA
A physicist and radiation detector expert in particle physics instrumentation development, I drifted into medical imaging where I invented several organ-specific imagers for breast, brain, prostate, heart. The molecular gamma camera breast imager is globally marketed by Dilon Diagnostics.
As the inventor of the Helmet PET (the wearable upright brain imager concept), I am one of the original proponents of the AMPET concept.
My specific interest is to assess brain function in the early stages of Alzheimer’s by combining the wearable upright PET brain imager with a Virtual Reality environment.
"This instrument will have a major impact on diagnosis and treatment of dementias and other neurological diseases."
PROJECT ADVISOR
Training + Fellowships: University of Warsaw, Poland, Physics
Lab Personnel + Collaborators: at UVa: Mark Williams, Stuart Berr, Bijoy Kundu, Andrew Polemi. Globally main collaborators: Jose Maria Benlloch, Antonio Gonzales, in I3M institute Valencia, Spain.
Contact info: Department of Radiology & Medical Imaging, University of Virginia
Fontaine Research Park, Snyder Building
480 Ray C Hunt Drive, P.O. Box 801339,
Charlottesville, VA 22903
(office) 757-206-3962, (fax) 434-924-9435
stan.majewski@gmail.com | sm4aa@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu
Paul Kinahan, PhD CO-INVESTIGATOR, UNIVERSITY of WASHINGTON
An early project was the development of a fully-3D PET image reconstruction algorithm (Kinahan and Rogers 1989) that became an industry standard. With David Townsend's group, I helped to develop the first PET/CT scanner as a research prototype (Beyer et al. 2000). There, I developed the first methods for CT-based attenuation correction of PET data (Kinahan et al 1998), a necessary step for quantitative PET imaging. An exciting outgrowth of this work has been improving the ability of PET/CT to contribute to early-phase drug discovery (Kinahan et al. 2009).
Providing leadership and guidance, I help direct design decisions to optimize in-brain sensitivity, identify inner-brain structures of interest for research, and evaluate and optimize product design — such as detector placement relative to the head, detector materials, radiotracers, and electronics, and others factors. I advise on medical imaging technologies and the physics behind the machines which will optimize resolution and minimize cost of production.
"designing to optimize resolution and minimize cost
of production ..."
VICE CHAIR of RESEARCH PROFESSOR of RADIOLOGY
Training:
PhD in Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania
Relevant Publications:
Paul Kinahan, Stan Majewski, Brian Elston, Robert Harrison, Jinyi Qi, Ravindra Manjeshwar, Sergei Dolinsky, Alexander Stolin, and Julie Brefczynski-Lewis. Design Considerations for AMPET: The Ambulatory Micro-Dose, Wearable PET Brain Imager. Journal of Nuclear Medicine, vol. 56. Suppliment 1. (abstract), 2015.
Contact info:
Adjunct Professor of Bioengineering and Physics, Head of the Imaging Research Laboratory,
Director of PET/CT Physics, UWMC
222 Portage Bay Building (PBB), Box 357987
University of Washington, Seattle WA 98195-7987
206-543-0236 | kinahan@uw.edu
Jinyi Qi, PhD CO-INVESTIGATOR, UNIVERSITY of CALIFORNIA, DAVIS
As co-investigator, my focus and interest in this project is in iterative image reconstruction and image quality evaluation.
I am excited to apply our expertise to design the next generation PET imager for brain studies.
"excited ... to design the next generation PET imager
for brain studies."
PROFESSOR of BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING
Training: University of Southern California,
Electrical Engineering
Lab Personnel / Collaborators: Kuang Gong, Graduate student researcher.
Tier 1 Advisor: Dr. Arne Ekstrom, Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis.
Relevant Publications: Gong et al, “Simulation Study for Designing a Compact Brain PET Scanner," oral presentation at the 2015 IEEE MIC in San Diego, California.
Contact info: Biomedical Engineering, UC Davis
One Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616
530-754-6142
Sergei Dolinsky MSc CO-INVESTIGATOR, GE GLOBAL RESEARCH
For over 30 years, I've developed nuclear detectors for high energy physics and nuclear medicine. I'm interested in improving time and resolution for whole body and brain PET applications — namely, a high performance brain PET imaging system with ultra-high sensitivity. We'll be optimizing electronics, photosensors, scintillator detector blocks, and revamping photosensor technology to achieve medium-age detection to decrease radiation doses during scans.
I helped develop the first commercial PEM scanner at Naviscan PET Systems Inc. At GE Global Research, I develop detector technologies for clinical PET scanners. I directed the build of a prototype Time of Flight PET scanner with ~400ps timing resolution and < 3mm spatial resolution. Our research team at GE Global Research developed the detector for the world’s first integrated whole body Time-of-Flight PET-MR systems.
Training:
Nuclear Physics at Novosibirsk State University, Russia
Relevant Publications:
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C. Kim, G.C. Wang and S. Dolinsky, “Multi-Pixel Photon Counters for TOF PET detector and its challenges”, Proceedings of the IEEE Medical imaging conference and Nuclear science symposium, 2008: p. 3586–3590S.
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Dolinsky and S. Zelakiewicz, “Multiplexing requirements for solid state photomultipliers in time-of-flight PET”, Proceedings of the IEEE Medical imaging conference and Nuclear science symposium, 2010: p. 1763–1766C.
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Kim, … S. Dolinsky, et al. “Time-of-flight PET-MR detector development with silicon photomultiplier”, Proceedings of the IEEE Medical imaging conference and Nuclear science symposium, 2012: p. 3533–3536
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Wagadarikar, A.A. ; Ivan, A. ; Dolinsky, S. ; McDaniel, D.L., “Sensitivity Improvement of Time-of-Flight (ToF) PET Detector Through Recovery of Compton Scattered Annihilation Photons”, Nuclear Science, IEEE Transactions on Nuclear Science, Vol: 61, Issue: 1, Part: 1, 2014: p121-125
Contact info:
GE Global Research
1 Research Circle, KW-C601
Niskayuna, NY 12309
518 387 5400
"With a team of physicists, we aim for sub 200 ps timing resolution while preserving high spatial (<2 mm) resolution."
SENIOR SCIENTIST
FUNCTIONAL IMAGING LAB
Alexander Stolin PhD CO-INVESTIGATOR, WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
My research interests lie in the field of developing dedicated nuclear medicine instrumentation. I was an active participant in building the prototype portable brain imager, working closely with Dr. Majewski on construction, optimization and evaluation of the early model. Successful demonstration of the concept provided strong preliminary data for BRAIN Initiative grant submission and its funding.
As a part of the BRAIN Initiative collaboration, I am enhancing the initial prototype system. A functional prototype scanner allows us to experiment with many design concepts in “real world” conditions. For example, testing of mechanical support structures will be possible, giving us an idea of what works, and, maybe more importantly, what doesn’t. Our clinical partners may get a live demonstration of current and future possibilities of wearable PET technology. In turn, we’ll collect feedback for study designs and use that knowledge in future system refinement.
Training:
Physics, University of Virginia
Lab Personnel / Collaborators:
James Proffitt
AiT Instruments
11815 Fountain Was, st. 300
Newport News, VA 23606
Relevant Publications:
AMPET: a brain initiative planning project to design a wearable, microdose pet imager. Brefczynski-Lewis, JA, Majewski, S, Manjeshwar, R, Stolin, A, Kinahan, P., Qi, J, Dolinsky, S, Harrison, R, Rishel, M. Elston, B. Gong, K, Vaigneur, K., Society for Neuroscience 2015.
Contact info:
University of Virginia
1 Medical Center Drive, Rm B113
Morgantown, WV 26506
(office) 304-293-6929, (fax) 304-293-4283
"It’s always exciting to work on something new, and it is especially so with such an ambitious goal and a great team of collaborators."
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
DEPARTMENT of RADIOLOGY
Thorsten Wuest PhD ENGINEER, WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
Being the latest addition to the PET Helmet team, we are extremely excited to contribute to this game-changing project with our engineering expertise. Our group will focus on development, design and manufacturing of a variety of innovative prototypes for the physical support structure ("helmet"). Our focus is on building the best possible solution(s) based on the set of dynamic and carefully extracted requirements.
The solutions may entail a weight reduction by using advanced (additive) manufacturing and lightweight design principles and/or external support structures that reduce the strain on the head/neck of a subject. However, a goal is also to explore other technology focussed options, for example, the possibility of using sensors and actuators to adapt the PET array dynamically and in real-time relative to the subjects (head) movements.
Training:
PhD in Production Engineering, University of Bremen, Germany
Lab Personnel / Collaborators:
Craig Hartzell, CEO, Azimuth Inc.
Samantha Melroy, IE graduate student
Garret Carden, IE undergraduate student
Matthew McHugh, ME undergraduate student
Contact info:
West Virginia University
Industrial and Management Systems Engineering
P.O. Box 6070, Morgantown, WV 26506-6070
(304) 293-9439 office
"Humbled to be a small part of such a game-changing effort to better understand the human brain."
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
INDUSTRIAL & MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Brian F Elston, BSLA, BSCS STAFF SCIENTIST, UNIVERSITY of WASHINGTON
As a senior software programmer specializing in simulation of PET tomographs and medical technologies, I bring expertise in PET simulation technologies, software programming, and PET tomographs. Research interest in improving the technology of PET imaging, and expanding potential future uses.
I help simulate various design models, model radiotracer effects, compare physical helmet arrangements, evaluate detector characteristics, and in-brain sensitivity. I use simulation to generate and evaluate tradeoffs in real-world design decisions (i.e. detector placement, materials, etc.) that affect sensitivity. With final data sets obtainable from a real-world tomograph, I provide direction to the group regarding these results, interpretation. I bring meaning to the statistics generated from the simulation studies and their effect on tomograph design.
"using computer modeling to simulate tradeoffs in real-world design decisions ..."
SENIOR COMPUTING SCIENTIST
Training: BSLA, BSCS Computing Scientist
Relevant Publications: Paul Kinahan, Stan Majewski, Brian Elston, Robert Harrison, Jinyi Qi, Ravindra Manjeshwar, Sergei Dolinsky, Alexander Stolin, and Julie Brefczynski-Lewis. Design Considerations for AMPET: The Ambulatory Micro-Dose, Wearable PET Brain Imager. Journal of Nuclear Medicine, vol. 56. Suppliment 1. (abstract), 2015.
Contact info: University of Washington Radiology Imaging Research Laboratory
222 Portage Bay Building (PBB), Box 357987, University of Washington, Seattle WA 98195-7987
Michael J. Rishel PhD STAFF SCIENTIST, GE GLOBAL RESEARCH
My recent research efforts have been directed toward synthetic radiochemistry, tracer synthesis, and opportunities for developing novel imaging paradigms for PET; particularly for neurology applications. The increased resolution and sensitivity of the proposed scanner presents a unique opportunity to cultivate a deeper understanding of both normal brain function and the underlying etiology of neurological diseases, especially as it relates to changes in the expression patterns of biomarkers that have traditionally resided just beyond the reach of conventional imaging techniques.
The goal of my subproject is to highlight the unique capabilities of the proposed scanner in the context of its increased sensitivity and resolution, ability to tolerate motion, and broader accessibility to patients. To this end we are evaluating potential imaging applications not only to interrogate baseline neurologic function, but also for a number of clinical indications, including (but not limited to) multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), depression, and schizophrenia.
Training: University of Virginia - Chemistry; Postdoctoral Researcher - University of Pittsburgh Natural Product Synthesis
Contact info: GE Global Research
1 Research Circle, K1-4D57
Niskayuna, NY 12309
518-387-4274
"a unique opportunity to cultivate a deeper understanding of both normal brain function and ... neurological diseases."
SENIOR RESEARCH SCIENTIST
FUNCTIONAL IMAGING LAB
Robert Harrison, MS STAFF SCIENTIST, UNIVERSITY of WASHINGTON
As a senior research scientist and engineer specializing in emission tomography simulation and data corrections, I lead the effort to extend and support the SimSET (Simulation System for Emission Tomography) photon-tracking simulation package — an essential tool developed by the University of Washington Department of Radiology Imaging Research Laboratory. Using simulation, we improve image quantification and define robust patient- and study-specific response metrics combining kinetic models, knowledge of the patient’s anatomy, and accurate noise and resolution models.
With my expertise in emission tomography physics and algorithms, I manage the SIMSET simulations to maximize sensitivity, image quality and quantification on a task-specific level, e.g., imaging of specific brain structures such as the hippocampus or amygdala. I provide expertise in various radiotracers and their clinical application, and provide input on physical orientation and design issues (i.e. detector placement) that would optimize the quality of data produced by the AMPET helmet PET tomograph.
Training:
MS Mathematics, University of Washington
Relevant Publications:
Paul Kinahan, Stan Majewski, Brian Elston, Robert Harrison, Jinyi Qi, Ravindra Manjeshwar, Sergei Dolinsky, Alexander Stolin, and Julie Brefczynski-Lewis. Design Considerations for AMPET: The Ambulatory Micro-Dose, Wearable PET Brain Imager. Journal of Nuclear Medicine, vol. 56. Suppliment 1. (abstract), 2015.
Contact info:
Radiology Imaging Research Laboratory
222 Portage Bay Building (PBB), Box 357987
University of Washington
Seattle WA 98195-7987
"for the fullest benefit to researchers, and maximizing benefit to the greatest number of disciplines ..."
RESEARCH SCIENTIST / ENGINEER
Kuang Gong, PhD candidate GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCHER, UNIVERSITY of CALIFORNIA, DAVIS
Monte Carlo simulation, PET system modeling and reconstruction are among my main interests in the PET imaging project.
Under the supervision of Professor Jinyi Qi, my main role in this project is to propose, simulate and evaluate different PET helmet geometries.
"to propose, simulate and evaluate different PET helmet geometries."
Training:
UC DAVIS, PET imaging reconstruction
Relevant Publications:
Gong et al, “Simulation Study for Designing a Compact Brain PET Scanner," oral presentation at the 2015 IEEE MIC in San Diego, California.
Contact info:
Biomedical Engineering, UC Davis
One Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616
530-400-6887 | kugong@ucdavis.edu
Chris Bauer, PhD candidate GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCHER, UNIVERSITY of WEST VIRGINIA
As a post doc at WVU, I am very excited about the future possibilities enabled by this project. I worked very closely with Dr. Stan Majewski, Dr. Julie Brefczynksi-Lewis, and Dr. Alexander Stolin on the early proof-of-concept prototype Helmet_PET. Data from this early model was later used to help win support from the BRAIN initiative grant.
In regards to AMPET, I continue to work closely with the WVU team in the development and use of a next-generation PET imager. Although the potential future applications of this project are numerous, I hope to one day see truly mobile PET imaging to assess never-before-seen phenomenon such as the human brain during active upright walking, running, and other movement and balance-related tasks
"Advancing mobile medicine for both the clinic and immersive research."
Training:
WVU, Biomedical Sciences Program (Neuroscience Concentration)
Relevant Publications:
Bauer, Brefczynski-Lewis, Marano, Mandich, Stolin, Martone, Lewis, Jaliparthi, Raylman, and Majewksi (2016). Concept of an Upright Wearable Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Imager in Humans. Brain and Behavior. In press.
Contact info:
West Virginia University
Department of Psychology OR Department of Radiology