2025 Research Days
Binghamton Research Days Student Presentations


The Effect of Sleep Routines on Infant MRI Acquisitions

Authors: Katelyn Chen, Sama Nada

Field of Study: Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Math

Program Affiliation: TRiO (SSS, Upward Bound, etc.), ENCoDe (Early NeuroCognitive Development) Lab

Faculty Mentors: Stefania Conte

Easel: 23

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with infants is typically conducted during natural sleep, which poses challenges in ensuring they fall and stay asleep. Prior research has identified techniques to address this, however this study examines how MRI visit variables like MRI time and infant sleep habits relate to imaging outcomes. The sample included 44 infants aged 6-12 months (M = 7.9, SD = 2.2; 23 females; 10% Hispanic, 5% African American, 17% multiracial) from Binghamton, NY. Infants completed 1-3 MRI visits and were divided into successful or unsuccessful scan groups. Parents completed surveys on infants’ sleep routines before the MRI. Variables analyzed included sleep habits, environmental factors, and scan timing relative to bedtime/naptime. Data analysis will identify patterns between groups associated with successful scans, and use decision tree models to predict acquisition outcome. Findings will provide evidence-based guidelines for optimizing MRI acquisition protocols with infant participants, improving feasibility and data quality.