September 2024

TechTalk – MRI at 0.05 Tesla for Accessible Healthcare: Back to the Future?

Innovation Wing Two, TechTalk / By

October 10, 2024 (Thursday) 4:30-5:30pm
Despite a half-century of advancements, global MRI accessibility remains limited, hindering its full potential in health care. Initially, MRI development focused on low fields around 0.05 Tesla, but progress halted after the introduction of the 1.5 Tesla whole-body superconducting scanner in 1983. Using permanent 0.05 Tesla magnets and deep learning for electromagnetic interference elimination, we developed highly simplified 0.05 Tesla MRI systems that operate using a standard wall power outlet and without radiofrequency and magnetic shielding. We demonstrated its wide-ranging applicability for imaging both brain (Nature Communications 2021) and various anatomical structures at whole-body level (Science 2024). Furthermore, we developed three-dimensional deep learning reconstruction methodologies to boost image quality by harnessing extensive high-field MRI data (MRM 2023, Science Advances 2023, Science 2024). We hope these advances will eventually lead to a new class of affordable and computing–powered ultra-low-field MRI scanners for point-of-care applications, addressing unmet clinical needs in diverse health care settings.

HKAE TechTalk – Towards 6G: The Impacts of Wireless Communications Technologies Research to Society

Innovation Wing Two, TechTalk / By

October 22 2024 (Tuesday) 4:00-5:00pm
The rapid advancement of mobile communications technology is profoundly reshaping society and paving the way for the future. This talk will first guide the audience through the innovations and adoption progress of 5G technology, highlighting its transformative impacts. The discussion will then shift to ASTRI’s initiatives aiming at addressing critical pain points and customizing applications to enhance user experiences, showcasing how 5G continues to evolve and unlock its full potential. As we transition from 5G to 6G, a new landscape of opportunities and challenges is emerging, driven by academic research and operator requirements. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence in 6G presents exciting possibilities for enhancing everyday life. The presentation will also introduce ASTRI’s research efforts on shaping a connected future, illustrating how these advancements can foster a more integrated and intelligent society.

SIG – WeGoALGAE

Projects, SIG project / By

WeGoALGAE is a student interest group dedicated to using microalgae to combat climate change and enhance air quality in Hong Kong. Through extensive research on various strains of microalgae and the development of photobioreactors, we are unlocking their power to reduce carbon dioxide levels—an essential step in our fight against greenhouse gas emissions.

Microalgae are remarkable organisms that capture carbon dioxide with staggering efficiency—up to 400 times more effective than traditional plants. This process not only helps cleanse our air but also releases oxygen, making them nature’s powerhouse. By designing and building innovative prototypes of microalgae photobioreactors, we are creating sustainable air purifiers that can transform urban environments into healthier spaces.

Our mission is bold: to implement our solutions throughout Hong Kong, revolutionizing our approach to air quality and sustainability. We envision a city where modernized plantation methods meet ecological responsibility, resulting in safe, clean air for everyone.

WeGoALGAE aligns our efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), 13 (Climate Action), 15 (Life on Land), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By focusing on these goals, we aim to create a cleaner, greener future that benefits all life on land.

Be part of the solution and join us!