Predicting time-of-flight with Cerenkov light in BGO: a three-stage network approach with multiple timing kernels prior

In the quest for enhanced image quality in positron emission tomography (PET) reconstruction, the introduction of time-of-flight (TOF) constraints in TOF-PET reconstruction offers superior signal-to-noise ratio. By employing BGO detectors capable of simultaneously emitting prompt Cerenkov light and scintillation light, this approach combines the high time resolution of prompt photons with the high energy resolution of scintillation light, thereby presenting a promising avenue for acquiring more precise TOF information.