# A Feasibility Study of Task-Based fMRI at 0.55 T

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.20568 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2505.20568/

## Key facts

- Cited by 4 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 26 May 2025.

## Built on by (most cited first, 4 of 4)

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- [NeuroMambaLLM: Dynamic Graph Learning of fMRI Functional Connectivity in Autistic Brains Using Mamba and Language Model Reasoning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2602.13770/) (2026)
- [An Approach to Simultaneous Acquisition of Real-Time MRI Video, EEG, and Surface EMG for Articulatory, Brain, and Muscle Activity During Speech Production](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2603.04840/) (2026)
- [Best Practices in EEG Analysis: Preprocessing, Modeling, and Machine Learning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2609.36609/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

0.55T MRI offers advantages compared to conventional field strengths, including reduced susceptibility artifacts and better compatibility with simultaneous EEG recordings. However, reliable task-based fMRI at 0.55T has not been significantly demonstrated. In this study, we establish a robust task-based fMRI protocol and analysis pipeline at 0.55T that achieves full brain coverage and results comparable to what is expected for activation extent and location. We attempted fMRI at 0.55T by combining EPI acquisition with custom analysis techniques. Finger-tapping and visual tasks were used, comparing 5- and 10-minute runs to enhance activation detection. The results show significant activations, demonstrating that high-quality task-based fMRI is achievable at 0.55T in single subjects. This study demonstrates that reliable task-based fMRI is feasible on 0.55T scanners, potentially broadening functional neuroimaging access in clinical and research settings where high-field MRI is unavailable or impractical, supporting broader diagnostic and research applications.
