KAUST and Bruker Corporation have launched the KAUST–Bruker Center of Excellence (CoE) in Magnetic Resonance, formalizing a long-standing collaboration. The CoE will provide KAUST users access to cutting-edge magnetic resonance technologies and serve as a training site. Bruker showcased advanced technologies including the world's first 900 MHz wide-bore NMR spectrometer and a 500 MHz super wide-bore MRI spectrometer. Why it matters: This CoE enhances KAUST's position as a leading research institution in the region and fosters innovation in magnetic resonance research and applications.
This paper introduces BRIQA, a new method for automated assessment of artifact severity in pediatric brain MRI, which is important for diagnostic accuracy. BRIQA uses gradient-based loss reweighting and a rotating batching scheme to handle class imbalance in artifact severity levels. Experiments show BRIQA improves average macro F1 score from 0.659 to 0.706, especially for Noise, Zipper, Positioning and Contrast artifacts.
Prof. Simon Gröblacher from Delft University of Technology presented a seminar on using mechanical systems in quantum information processing, focusing on their potential as quantum memories and transducers. The seminar highlighted experiments demonstrating non-classical behavior of mechanical motion by coupling a micro-fabricated acoustic resonator to single optical photons. Quantum control over acoustic motion was established, including the generation and readout of single phononic excitations, along with light-matter entanglement. Why it matters: This research advances the use of micro-fabricated acoustic resonators for quantum information processing and fundamental tests of quantum physics.
TII's DERC, in partnership with Brazilian firm RADAZ, has obtained the first microwave images from their joint project on Airborne Multi-band Interferometric Microwave Imaging (A(MI)2) in Abu Dhabi. The project uses a new multiband Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) operating in P, L, and C frequency bands to generate terrain images. The system, which can be mounted on commercial drones, also integrates Ground Penetrating Radar capability to detect buried objects. Why it matters: This technology enhances remote sensing capabilities in the region, enabling applications in agriculture, infrastructure monitoring, and search and rescue operations.
KAUST and Bruker have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding and expanded it into a Strategic Partnership and Collaboration Agreement. The initial MoU launched the KAUST-Bruker Center of Excellence (CoE) for Magnetic Resonance (MR) located in the University's Core Laboratories in 2018. The expanded agreement extends the CoE to include X-ray technologies, enhancing technological interaction between the two organizations. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens KAUST's research capabilities and positions it as a leader in scientific innovation in Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
KAUST and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) have partnered to develop a new method using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to detect adulterants in olive oil. The method aims to identify and quantify vegetable oils mixed with olive oil, addressing concerns about the mislabeling of olive oil in the Saudi market. KAUST's comprehensive suite of NMR machines was critical for the project. Why it matters: This collaboration enhances food safety and quality control in Saudi Arabia, a major olive oil importer, and helps to ensure consumers receive authentic, high-quality products.