Analysis and Evaluation of hMRI Software and qMRLab Software Using Eight Different Characteristics to Determine Which Software is More Appropriate for New Users

Abstract

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) is one of the most common tools used to measure brain water content. However, this technique requires the use of particular software, such as the histology magnetic resonance imaging (hMRI) and qMRLAB, in evaluating and analysing the data. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to compare the diagnostic accuracy and reliability of hMRI and qMRLab software and thus, determine which software is more suitable for new users. Due to the lack of preexisting secondary review literature, only a primary methodological approach was used in the study. Eight different features of the hMRI and qMRLab software were compared and evaluated. These features included 1) licence type, 2) commercial categorisation, 3) limited or open-source status, 4) processing time, 5) provision of a manual or tutorial, 6) accessibility for novice investigators, 7) derivation of data regarding image signal and noise and 8) simplicity of use. The software score of hMRI was found to be 4.6/5 while that of qMRLab was 4/5. The findings indicate that the hMRI software scored better than the qMRLab software. Therefore, the hMRI software is more effective and thus, more suitable for new users.