Patterns of Popular Artifacts in QSM and χ-separation (chi-separation)

Motivation: In QSM and χ-separation (chi-separation), artifacts from various sources may be introduced. The oversight of these artifacts could lead researchers to analyse inaccurate maps, resulting in potentially erroneous conclusions. Goal(s): The primary objective of this research is to investigate the characteristics, origins, and solutions related to artifacts encountered in QSM and χ-separation. Approach: We processed QSM and χ-separation in 364 subjects from Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, hypertension, and alcohol-exposed adolescents development studies, reporting various types of artifacts. They are categorized and explored for origins and potential solutions. Results: This study identified and provided solutions for 11 artifact types. Impact: While processing QSM and χ-separation in diverse subjects and vendors, various artifacts emerged. This study categorized these artifacts, investigated origins, mitigation strategies, and discernible effects on QSM and χ-separation results, aiding researchers and practitioners in artifact identification, correction, and exclusion.