No abstract

We optimized CEST saturation pulse train using an optimal control framework and validated the simulation results on a preclinical scanner that allowed also Gold Standard continuous wave saturation. The optimized pulses almost reached the same saturation as the continuous wave pulse while addressing the allowed duty cycle and SAR limitations of clinical scanners. In measurements, the optimized pulses outperform state-of-the-art Gaussian pulses by over $$$47\%$$$.