OVERVIEW
This workshop will foster an open and collegial environment for the multi-directional exchange of ideas and information between imaging scientists, neuroradiologists, and luminary authorities’ expert in neurological disorders. The theme will be “advanced brain imaging – beyond state-of-the-art”. A short introductory session will explain the format  and “set the stage”.  Three disease-focused main sessions will follow:

1. Cancer / Brain Tumors
2. "Cognition: Aging, Maturation and Neurological Disease", including degenerative diseases not related to aging, such as TBI, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, all of which have cognitive sequelae in their chronic stages
3. Stroke

Every session will be structured to maximize opportunities for interaction. Plenary lectures will be followed by breakout sessions, and each breakout group will present a summary of its discussion to the reconvened audience.

The overall goal will be to explore and disseminate new models of dealing with the pathobiology of the disease process and unmet needs of patients.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• i.Incorporate new MR methods of studying stroke, brain tumors and cognitive disorders
• ii.Implement functional MRI in brain tumor diagnosis, analysis and therapy planning
• iii.Identify clinical problems that are not yet well-studied by MR methods in patients with these neurological disorders
• iv.Appraise capabilities of current imaging methods in functional and structural connectivity of the brain
• v.Implement appropriate stroke imaging protocols to obtain information about anatomy, flow, perfusion, metabolism and cerebrovascular reserve 
• vi. Identify scenarios for implementation of multi-disciplinary collaboration and research in advanced brain imaging

AUDIENCE DESCRIPTION
This workshop is designed for radiologists, neurologists, neurosurgeons and psychologists at least at an intermediate or higher level of understanding of brain MRI and related MR methods. It will also be of interest to imaging scientists and engineers who specialize in advanced MRI and related MR methods. The workshop is ideally suited for specialist clinicians and scientists working in academic hospitals and research institutes, and three or more years of work in the area of brain imaging or related fields would be helpful. The attendee should be strongly interested in learning about new and emerging MRI methods, as well as willing to provide opinions on unmet needs for neurological diagnosis and imaging.

ABOUT
The ISMRM, in collaboration with ASNR, will bring imaging scientists who have a strong interest in potential clinical applications of new imaging methods together with academic neuroradiologists.  The workshop will provide a mixture of plenary lectures, breakout sessions and Q&A opportunities.  There will be a half-day session on Controversial Topics, including Challenges in Imaging Brain & Mind, New Bones for Old Dogs, Tomorrow’s Fantasy Techniques, Unexplored Potential Breakthroughs, and Machine Learning & New Analytic Approaches.  We will also address the three major areas of brain imaging—Cognitive Function, Stroke and Brain Tumors-in three half-day Focus Sessions.  This program is accredited for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits^TM. 

To save significantly on registration fees for this workshop, register before 21 August 2012 at http://www.ismrm.org/workshops/BrainImaging12/  Please note the registration fees include workshop registration and materials, three nights’ hotel accommodation, as well as all meals.  If you are local to McLean and do not need accommodation, please contact our office and our staff would be happy to facilitate your registration.  We encourage you to register now and ensure your participation in this important workshop.