bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroimaging Insights: Structural Changes and Classification in Ménière's Disease
Authors: Fan Wenliang , Kong Xiangchuang , Sun Peng , Yang Fan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Emerging evidence suggests that Ménière's disease (MD) may extend beyond the confines of the inner ear, and involved the central nervous system. Goal(s): To investigate the neuroanatomical alterations associated with MD and to develop a machine learning classification model to effectively discriminate between MD patients and HC. Approach: A case-control morphometry study was performed to examine potential brain structural changes and delineate the diagnostic utility of these identified brain alterations. Results: Distinctive alterations in gray matter volume and cortical thickness were identified in regions implicated in emotional processing and sensory integration. The classification model showcased a discriminative power with an impressive AUC value(0.92). Impact: MD patients showed distinctive morphometry alterations, and were leveraged as potential biomarkers, facilitating the discrimination between MD and HC.These findings provide critical insights into the intricate neuroanatomical alterations in MD and highlight the diagnostic potential of advanced neuroimaging techniques.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN 3D -SUSCEPTIBILITY-WEIGHTED IMAGING SEQUENCE &2D-T2WI GRADIENT ECHO SEQUENCE IN MRI BRAIN
Authors: Sandeep Velicheti , SREEJA GOGULA , Athota Sai preethi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Our study's aim is to aid radiologists in selecting the most appropriate MRI brain sequence, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Goal(s): We aimed to compare the effectiveness of SWI and GRE MRI sequences in detecting brain conditions like hemorrhages, calcifications, and vascular malformationsApproach: We conducted an observational study, analyzing patient data using SWI and GRE sequences on the same patient. Our approach focused on data analysis and assessing image quality. Results: SWI is our preference for its sensitivity and reliability, but we recognize GRE's value when CT is already available. GRE efficiently distinguishes brain features, particularly beneficial for uncooperative patients. Impact: Our study's results hold far-reaching implications. Healthcare professionals can benefit by using more accurate MRI-sequence, enabling better patient care. Researchers may explore novel avenues, enhancing scientific understanding, which is invaluable for medical progress.
Highly accelerated time-resolved 4D MRA using stack-of-stars golden-angle radial acquisition and subtraction-based subspace reconstruction
Authors: Zhao Tianrui , Feng Li , Krumpelman Chase , Tang Jianing , Gamez Maria , Ansari Sameer , Yan Lirong
Published: November 2024

Motivation: ASL-based time-resolved 4D MRA potentially suffers from temporal blurring when accelerating image acquisition by exploiting temporal correlations. Goal(s): To develop a robust 4D MRA reconstruction framework that enables a very high acceleration rate while preserving good temporal fidelity. Approach: We developed a fast low-rank subspace high-resolution 4D MRA (Flash-4D-MRA) that combines SOS golden-angle radial sampling with joint subtraction-based self-calibrated low-rank subspace and magnitude-subtraction sparsity constraint to achieve an ultra-high temporal resolution. Each 4D MRA data was reconstructed with four high acceleration rates. Results: Dynamic MRA images were successfully reconstructed using Flash-4D-MRA with higher acceleration rates without compromising temporal fidelity. Impact: Flash-4D-MRA allows for the delineation of cerebral dynamic flow with good image quality and temporal fidelity at an ultra-high temporal resolution, which could be a potentially useful non-contrast 4D MRA technique in clinical applications to characterize fast-flow events.
Reproducibility of the quantification of cerebral perfusion using multi-delay arterial spin labeling MRI at 5T
Authors: Fan Xiaoyuan , Han Hualu , Li Zhonghui , Zhang Xinzhen , Yue Zhiling , Chen Shuo , Feng Feng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To develop and optimize multi-delay pCASL at ultra-high field 5T MR system and further assess the reproducibility of this technique for the quantifications of cerebral perfusion. Goal(s): Develop a whole-brain multi-delay pCASL imaging protocol with good reproducibility at 5T MRI. Approach: Optimize labeling gradient parameters for the field inhomogeneities, scan 8 healthy volunteers and test the reproducibility of cerebral blood flow(CBF) and arterial transit time(ATT). Results: We first achieved whole-brain multi-delay pCASL imaging at ultra-high field with prolonged post-labeling delays. CBF showed excellent reproducibility in all brain regions, especially in subcortical region. ATT showed excellent reproducibility in anterior brain regions. Impact: Our findings enable a reliable quantitative analysis of whole-brain perfusion from multi-delay pCASL at ultra-high field with good reproducibility, offering a promising advancement in the effective and accurate diagnosis for neurological diseases.
SNR Quantification using Pseudoreplica Method: Validation in Phantom and Application to in-vivo Brain Perfusion using ASL
Authors: Fonseca Sebastian , Hulsey Keith , Zhou Limin , Dimitrov Ivan , Peeters Johannes , Madhuranthakam Ananth
Published: November 2024

Motivation: SNR is a key image quality metric; however estimating it can be difficult when using more complex image acquisition and reconstruction techniques. Goal(s): Demonstrate the validity of the pseudoreplica method as an accurate SNR estimation tool and show potential for its translation into clinical scanning protocols. Approach: We quantified SNR using our pseudoreplica method implementation in MATLAB in a prostate phantom, as well as in a brain ASL dataset of healthy volunteers. Results: SNR values obtained with the pseudoreplica method in the prostate phantom and in-vivo brain ASL dataset had good agreement with the multiple and dual acquisition SNR quantification methods. Impact: We have demonstrated the reliability and accuracy of our pseudoreplica SNR quantification implementation in ASL. Integrating this method into the scanner's pipeline would allow for real-time assessment of image quality and further optimization of new MR sequences and reconstruction methods.
Altered topological properties of morphological and functional brain networks in patients with NMOSD: An individual-based study
Authors: Ma Haotian , Zhu Yanyan , Wu Lin , Wang Yao , Liang Xiao , Li Xiaoxing , Qian Long , Cheung Gerald , Dai Jiankun , Zhou Fuqing
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Alterations of brain structure and function in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are not fully understood. Goal(s): To assess the alteration of individual brain network topological properties and their clinical significance in NMOSD. Approach: 18 NMOSD patients and 22 healthy controls were enrolled. Individual morphological (MBNs) and functional brain networks (FBNs) were created and compared. Results: The results revealed compensatory increases in local network properties in NMOSD to maintain overall stability. The MBNs showed more significant changes and stronger correlations with clinical information than FBNs. Impact: Our findings provided insights into NMOSD's complex neurological mechanisms from a brain network perspective and revealed the clinical significance of MBN and FBN in patients with NMOSD.
Improved Myelin Content Estimates from Clinical Selective Inversion Recovery Scans via Anisotropic Filtering
Authors: Sadrabadi Mohammadreza Soltany , Stokes Ashley , Dortch Richard
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Traditionally, Selective Inversion Recovery (SIR) images require long scan times for sufficient SNR, while shorter clinical scans yield low SNR images with noisy pool-size-Ratio (PSR) maps, leading to potential inaccuracies. Goal(s): An advanced filtering method has been used to improve the precision and accuracy of PSR maps from lower SNR scans. Approach: An advanced filtering method has been used to improve the precision and accuracy of PSR maps from lower SNR scans. Results: Initial results demonstrate that this method produces PSR maps comparable to longer, higher SNR scans from shorter clinical scans. Impact: The implementation of nonlinear anisotropic filtering methods significantly improves the practicality of SIR imaging in a clinical setting, offering quick, accurate myelin content assessments (without blurring tissue boundaries like linear filters) for applications in MS.
Fast Single-Point Macromolecular Proton Fraction Mapping using a 0.3 T MRI System
Authors: Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Eitoku Shoma , Sakae Nobutaka , Izumi Takahisa , Motoyama Yuuki , Kumazoe Hiroyuki , Kitajima Mika
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Quantifying myelin content in 0.3 T low-field MRI presents a challenge owing to prolonged imaging times and a low signal-to-noise ratio. Goal(s): The study aimed to validate the practical feasibility of macromolecular proton fraction (MPF) mapping in the brain using a 0.3 T MRI system. Approach: A phantom study with protein samples and an in vivo investigation were conducted. Results: The study findings indicate a robust correlation between 0.3 T MPF in brain tissue, MPF at 3.0 T, and previously reported MPF at 0.5 T. Impact: The fast single-point MPF mapping using a 0.3 T MRI exhibited the capacity to accurately measure brain MPF in a clinically feasible timeframe, providing a valuable tool for assessing myelin content.
Cross Site Reproducibility for standard and ultra-high b-value diffusion imaging in high-performance gradient (MAGNUS 3T) MRI systems.
Authors: Abad Nastaren , Bhushan Chitresh , Marinelli Luca , Fiveland Eric , Budesheim Eric , Park Keith , Ricci Justin , Magnotta Vincent , Mani Merry , Holmes James , Sodoma Matthew , McCarville Alan , Alexander Andrew , Kecskemeti Steven , Anderle Michael , Gonzalez Jose , LeMerise Lisette , McGovern Jeffrey , Foo Thomas
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cross-site reproducibility of ultra-high b-value diffusion MRI across multiple MAGNUS MRI systems is important for multi-site studiesGoal(s): To disentangle the contributions of physiological fluctuations vs. manufacturing tolerances to inform future cross-site studies for advanced and novel brain microstructural modelling and quantificationApproach: A traveling volunteer was recruited and imaged at three different MAGNUS (2nd generation) systems. An expanded multi-shell parameter space ranging from b=500-30,000 s/mm2 was analysed quantitatively to assess cross-site reproducibility. Results: Statistical comparisons across sites for global white matter and white matter parcels highlight good agreement without harmonization efforts. Impact: This dataset is expected to lay the ground work for multicenter collaboration for novel and advanced brain microstructural modelling and quantification. It can further be used to evaluate differences across scanners and to show the consistency of pipeline outputs.
Investigating brain correlates of neural plasticity with visual-motor sequence learning: Preliminary observations using 3.0T MAGNUS
Authors: Abad Nastaren , Kaeja Mika , Zhang Jing , Steele Christopher , Foo Thomas
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To investigated whether white matter microstructural changes after adaptive short-term training can be detected in a limited sample size with a high-performance gradient system that allows for increased sensitivity to underlying brain micro-architecture. Goal(s): Demonstrate that with task complexity and short-term training, the dynamic-location-specific neuroplastic changes can be detected. Approach: Advanced structural and functional MRI sequences in <60-min examination with a pre- and post-design paradigm were used in a high-performance head gradient system that allows for increased sensitivity to the underlying brain micro-architecture. Results: In this pilot study microstructural changes were noted on a group basis underlying primary motor and sensorimotor cortices. Impact: This study highlights the role of dynamic brain processes following short term visual motor sequencing learning (VMSL). The adult brain preserves dynamic characteristics that are altered by short-term learning experiences that can be detected with dMRI.
Monitoring of therapeutic response using lesion segmentation and DTI in adult cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy treated with Leriglitazone
Authors: Golse Marianne , Weinhofer Isabelle , Blanco Bernardo , Barbier Magali , Huiban Camille , Pascual Silvia , Martinell Marc , Berger Johannes , Perlbarg Vincent , Galanaud Damien , Mochel Fanny
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (CALD) is a rare and devastating demyelinating disease. The standard of care is hematopoeitic stem cell transplantation (HCST), which efficacy is limited to early-stage patients. Goal(s): We studied the efficacy of Leriglitazone in CALD patients, either not eligible or awaiting HSCT. Approach: Leriglitazone was administered to thirteen adult male patients. They underwent brain MRI every 3 months, with a quantitative analysis of lesion volumes on FLAIR, diffusion tensor parameters and gadolinium enhancements. Results: The disease stabilized in all patients awaiting HSCT. Corticospinal tract lesions downsized in most patients and turned gadolinium-negative, showing a selective effect of this molecule on motor pathways. Impact: Cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy is a devastating demyelinating disease, fatal for all patients without early stem cell transplantation. We showed that Leriglitazone represents a therapeutic alternative, allowing clinical and radiological stabilization in ten men. Remarkably, motor pathways lesions downsized and turned gadolinium-negative.
An in-vitro deuterium NMR study to measure the efficacy of combinatorial therapy for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma
Authors: Burman Ritambhar , Zhang Weixing , Hernandez Laura Sanchez , Krishnamurthy Kiran , Pavao Esther , Nisar Sabah , Bagga Puneet
Published: November 2024

Motivation: There is a need for developing next generation of clinical trials by targeting selective pathways in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). Goal(s): We explore the impact of Vehicle (DMSO), Paxalisib, BAY-876, and their combination in patient-derived SJ-DIPGX7 cell line to evaluate their potential as a therapeutic strategy for patients with DIPG. Approach: 2H-NMR spectra were longitudinally obtained in a cell suspension. We calculated the lactate flux turnover, which was validated using 100-run Monte-Carlo simulation. This outcome was further confirmed by conducting a glycolysis stress test. Results: The combined therapy (Paxalisib + BAY-876) holds potential for enhancing its therapeutic effectiveness against DIPGs. Impact: This study paves the way for future in-vitro and in-vivo studies to be conducted for monitoring efficacy of targeted therapeutic combination for DIPG.
OpenMAP-Di: Open Resource for Multiple Anatomical Region Parcellation of Diffusion MRI for Infantile Hypoxic-Ischemic Lesion Quantification
Authors: Onda Kengo , Kuo Nathanael , Nishimaki Kei , Chotiyanonta Jill , Kawasaki Yukako , Chang Linda , Ernst Thomas , Parkinson Charlamaine , Tekes Aylin , Chavez-Valdez Raul , Vaidya Dhananjay , Graham Ernest , Everett Allen , Northington Frances , Oishi Kenichi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Diffusion MRI (dMRI) is promising for predicting disabilities due to neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), yet current automated image quantification methods are slow and unvalidated for HIE lesions. Goal(s): Develop a rapid deep-learning model, OpenMAP-Di, to quantify dMRI with and without HIE injury to predict the short-term outcome (STO) score. Approach: We utilized nnU-Net to develop OpenMAP-Di, enabling dMRI parcellation and quantification, and applied an elastic regression model to predict the STO score. Results: OpenMAP-Di accurately parcellated and quantified infant brains across varying scanners, acquisition parameters, and HIE severity levels in three minutes, and can also predict STO. Impact: The increased processing speed and robustness to technological and pathological variations offered by OpenMAP-Di promises timely and reliable future neurodevelopmental outcome assessments for individuals surviving HIE, while also offering researchers opportunities for extensive medical image analysis.
Clustering of local diffusion features reveals altered thalamic topography in newborns with congenital heart defects
Authors: Ji Hui , Wu Zhe , Kottke Raimund , Tuura Ruth , Latal Beatrice , Knirsch Walter , Jakab Andras
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Structural connectivity in the thalamus, essential for cortical-subcortical communication, is known to be disrupted in congenital heart defect (CHD) patients. Yet, assessing thalamic nuclei via local diffusion characteristics in vivo remains challenging. Goal(s): We aimed to validate a diffusion-based clustering method to map the developing thalamus and explore topological differences between CHD infants and healthy controlsApproach: By refining a segmentation method and employing k-means and GMM clustering, we characterized thalamic nucleiResults: Notable volume reductions in six thalamic clusters were identified in CHD infants, with significant mediodorsal nucleus group alterations, pertinent to prefrontal connectivityImpact: Our validated segmentation technique enables robust delineation of thalamic nuclei in vivo, unveiling developmental alterations in CHD infants. This advancement paves the way for targeted clinical interventions and improves neurodevelopmental outcomes prediction
The lack of growth hormone is accompanied by decreased GABA+ concentrations and neuronal activity within the thalamus in short children
Authors: Tang Jing , Ai Kai , Li Jie , Li Fang , Luo Mingfang , He Bo , Zhang Xiaoyong , Wang Yuting
Published: November 2024

Motivation: It is unclear whether the lack of growth hormone (GH) is accompanied by altered GABA in human brain and relationship between the alterations and neuronal activity. Goal(s): Thalamus is one of brain region that has highest concentration of GH receptors. The purpose of this study was to explore changes in GABA concentrations in thalamus and its association with neuronal activity in children with GHD. Approach: We used MEGA-PRESS sequence to quantify the concentration of GABA+ in thalamus and rs-fMRI to assess neuronal activity. Results: We found that the levels of thalamus GABA+ decreased significantly, and it was related to abnormal neuronal activity. Impact: This study provides a new insight into the neural mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction in children with GHD, and holds a promising biomarker for us to find a new treatment approach to GHD.
DKI reveals abnormal gray matter and white matter development in some brain regions of children with ADHD
Authors: Tang Shilong , Nie Lisha , Qian Fangfang , Chen Wushuang , HE Ling , Yang Mei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Currently, many studies have applied the DKI technique in adults, while fewer studies have applied this technique in children, especially in children with ADHDGoal(s): Explore the feasibility of applying DKI technology to the brain of children with ADHDApproach: 72 children with ADHD and 79 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included in the study. All children were examined by means of 3D-T1weighted image , DKI and conventional sequence scanningResults: DKI showed abnormal gray matter and white matter development in some brain regions of children with ADHD. Impact: DKI imaging showed abnormal gray matter and white matter in frontal lobe, temporal lobe, Caudate nucleus and other brain regions of ADHD children. The brain volume of ADHD is lower than that of healthy children.
Value of Magnetic Resonance Stretched-Exponential and Fractional Order Calculus Models to Differentiate HCC and ICC
Authors: Xie Jinhuan , Long Liling , Li Chenhui , Zhang Huiting
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The traditional apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value had limited value in differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Goal(s): To evaluate the value of stretched-exponential model (SEM) and fractional order calculus (FROC) diffusion model in differentiating HCC and ICC. Approach: Parameters from SEM and FROC models and ADC value using multiple b-value DWI data were obtained, and were evaluated using t-test and ROC curve in differential diagnosis of HCC and ICC. Results: Distributed diffusion coefficient (DDC) from SEM and diffusion coefficient (D) from FROC had significant differences between HCC and ICC, and had higher performances than the ADC. Impact: DDC from SEM and D from FROC model may be helpful to improve the accuracy of the preoperative imaging diagnosis and guide personalized treatment for liver tumor.
Impact of Extracellular Matrix Protein Decorin on Diffusion MR in the 4T1 Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Yadav Santosh , Krishnamachary Balaji , Liu Derek , Mironchik Yelena , Nimmagadda Sridhar , Bhujwalla Zaver
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Decorin (DCN), so called because it decorates collagen fibers, is essential for the mechanical integrity of tissues. It acts as a guardian of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by sequestering cytokines. Goal(s): Our purpose here was to determine the effects of DCN on water diffusion and the expression of immune checkpoints. Approach: DTI with MRI in decorin Results: . We found, with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), that DCN overexpression in tumors altered water diffusion metrics suggesting that increased DCN altered water movement through the ECM that could potentially alter cytokine movement through the ECM. Impact: Cancer diagnosis
Correction of B0-related distortions in diffusion-weighted images of malignant and normal cervical tissue
Authors: Lundström Elin , Rodríguez-Soto Ana , Conlin Christopher , Loubrie Stephane , Jordan Stephan , Ebrahimi Sheida , Besser Alexandra , Schlein Alexandra , Hom-Tedla Marianne , Saenz Cheryl , Varon Shira , McHale Michael , Hahn Michael , Hedlund Elisabeth , Jónsdóttir Björg , Kozar Katarzyna , Kuperman Joshua , Seibert Tyler , Koliadi Anthoula , Liss Per , Dale Anders , Rakow-Penner Rebecca
Published: November 2024

Motivation: DWI in cervical cancer evaluation suffers from distortions, especially pronounced by intestinal gas, potentially impeding lesion detection/delineation. Goal(s): To evaluate a combined prospective-retrospective distortion reduction approach, based on distortion correction of female pelvic DWI acquired with reduced-FOV. Approach: Two correction methods, RPG and Topup, were applied on images from cervical cancer patients and volunteers. Distortion correction performance was evaluated by the concordance between tumour/cervix borders in images before and after correction. Results: Topup outperformed RPG, with statistically significant but modest improvements of initially small distortions resulting from the reduced-FOV acquisition. Occasional correction failures and limitations in the proton density correction warrant alternative approaches. Impact: Topup distortion correction, commonly used for brain studies, shows statistically significant but modest improvements in female pelvic reduced-FOV DWI. Despite indications of clinical utility, limited improvements and occasional correction failures suggest alternative approaches and prospective distortion reduction as potential strategies.
Diffusion Weighted Imaging for The Pathological Classification of Parotid Gland Tumors
Authors: Yuanzao Liu , Bo Gao , Yongjun Cheng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Parotid gland tumors require various treatments, and it is essential to assess malignancy before surgery. Goal(s): To evaluate the effectiveness of diffusion-weighted imaging in diagnosing salivary gland tumors. Approach: In a retrospective study, Conventional MRI (cMRI) and DWI data from 85 cases were analyzed. ADC values were measured and compared among different tumor types. Salivary gland tumors are classified into three categories: pleomorphic adenoma (PA), Warthin tumor, and malignant tumors. Results: ADC values successfully distinguish PA from other tumors, but they do not differentiate between benign and malignant tumors. Lower ADC values are associated with higher grades of malignancy. Impact: DWI, a non-invasive imaging technique, provides critical insights into the cellular structure of tissues, aiding in the differentiation of benign and malignant thyroid nodules. It enhances diagnostic accuracy, reduces unnecessary biopsies, and contributes to the optimization of treatment strategies.
Validation of Motion-Robust Liver Diffusion MRI in Multi-Stiffness Pulsatile Motion Phantoms
Authors: Volety Srijyotsna , Rice James , Pirasteh Ali , Roldan-Alzate Alejandro , Hernando Diego
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Quantitative diffusion MRI is a proposed marker for assessment of liver fibrosis. However, poor reproducibility and lack of highly controlled validation of liver ADC mapping precludes its clinical utilization. Goal(s): Introduce hydrogel liver models with pulsatile motion and varying stiffness. These enable controlled validation of ADC accuracy and reproducibility across DWI acquisition parameters and physiological-mimicking motion. Approach: Conventional monopolar (MONO) and motion-robust M1-optimized diffusion waveforms (MODI) were used to acquire DWI of three hydrogel liver models. Results: MODI-DWI resulted in less biased DWI and ADC maps than MONO-DWI in areas of motion. A significant inverse relationship was observed between ADC and phantom stiffness. Impact: Quantitative diffusion MRI may enable assessment of liver fibrosis. However, the relationship between diffusion parameters and stiffness requires controlled evaluation. The proposed phantom-based approach may help validate and optimize diffusion MRI of the liver and other abdominal organs.
Demonstration of TE-dependence of tissue microstructure estimation
Authors: Wang Tenglong , He Yifei , Liu Xiaoming , Sun Peng , Zhang Yizhe , Qin Jiaolong , Yu Jiahao , Zhou Tao , Wu Ye
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The microstructure properties obtained through advanced dMRI technology can be affected by MRI scanning parameter echo time’s changes. Goal(s): This study aims to investigate the impact of increasing TE on microstructure properties derived from different dMRI techniques across various tissues and health conditions. Approach: NODDI, FreeWater DTI, and IVIM were used to evaluate the TE dependence of tissue microstructure parameters from ten subjects with different health conditions. Results: As TE increases in different brain tissues (GM, SGM, WM, and CSF), FW, FWF, and NDI increase, while FA and perfusion fraction decrease. ODI remains relatively consistent in most brain regions for various health conditions. Impact: This research examines the influence of different echo times on microstructural properties derived from advanced dMRI techniques in various brain regions and health states. The findings could aid in the interpretation of TE-dependence microstructural estimation.
Complex-valued deep learning based denoising of gradient echo images in high-resolution quantitative susceptibility mapping
Authors: Ravichandran Sandhanakrishnan , Boehm Christof , Weiss Kilian , Ziller Alexander , Kaissis Georgios , Hammernik Kerstin , Rueckert Daniel , Huber Thomas , Borde Tabea , Meineke Jakob , Makowski Marcus , Fallenberg Eva , Karampinos Dimitrios
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) has recently been used to detect breast microcalcifications (MCs) which could be the precursor lesions to breast-carcinoma. However, acquiring high-resolution (HR) QSM maps reduces the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), making detection of MCs challenging. Goal(s): Improve the SNR in HR-QSM for better MCs visualization using deep-learning-based denoising. Approach: A complex-valued bias-free CNN (CV-BFCNN), adapted from real-valued BFCNN, was trained on complex-valued MR data with Gaussian noise to denoise multi-echo gradient-echo images used for QSM processing. Results: CV-BFCNN improves SNR in HR-QSM and processes complex-valued MR data directly when compared to real-valued BFCNN, and allows enhanced visualisation and detection of MCs. Impact: The application of complex-valued deep-learning-based denoising in high-resolution QSM has substantially improved SNR and detection of micro-calcifications, a precursor to breast cancer. This helps QSM, an ionizing radiation-free alternative in detection and visualization of microcalcifications in the breast.
Assessing the Reproducibility of χ-separation: Comparative Analysis of Two Modeling Approaches with Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping
Authors: Park Beomsoo , Lee Hayeon , Lee Jongho , Kim Hyejin , Nam Yoonho
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Magnetic susceptibility in MRI offers non-invasive insights into brain substances like iron and myelin, affecting brain function and disease. The χ-separation method promises to enhance these insights by better estimating substance concentrations. Goal(s): To assess the test-retest reproducibility of χ-separation methods to ensure their reliability for wider use in both research and clinical settings. Approach: Reproducibility was tested by repeating scans using 3T MRI. Statistical analysis by Bland-Altman, regression, and ICC were used for evaluation. Results: χ-separation demonstrated high reproducibility for both positive and negative susceptibility map analyses compared to previous study regarding QSM Impact: This study affirms the robustness of χ-separation in MRI, enhancing the detection of iron and myelin concentrations and paving the way for more accurate brain pathology studies, potentially revolutionizing both clinical diagnostics and research into neurodegenerative diseases.
STI-net: reconstruction of the susceptibility tensor using deep neural network
Authors: Muñoz Nestor , Milovic Carlos , Langkammer Christian , Tejos Cristian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: When solving the Susceptibility Tensor Imaging problem, fast algorithms based on Least Squares require an elevated number of acquisitions, while more robust solvers that use DTI information may produce over-smoothed solutions. Goal(s): To create a deep neural network based reconstruction algorithm to produce high SNR STI images with a reduced number of MRI acquisitions. Approach: Use a physics-informed deep neural network approach, trained with various geometrical objects, capable of accurately reconstructing susceptibility tensors. Results: We obtained susceptibility tensors with the expected anisotropy, better alignment with DTI eigenvectors and high SNR. Impact: Our STI-net algorithm is capable of reconstructing accurate STI images with higher SNR, compared with traditional algorithms.
Robust and Repeatable Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Cherukara Matthew , Mithra Sanjena , Connor Stephen , Rovira Aleix , Welsh Karen , Franklin Rachael , Forster Martin , Shmueli Karin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Identifying hypoxia in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) could improve treatment. Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) offers a potential method for measuring tissue composition and oxygenation. Goal(s): To develop a robust, repeatable pipeline for QSM in the head and neck region. Approach: We tested various QSM reconstruction pipelines and compared their intra- and inter-session repeatability, before applying an optimized pipeline to a HNSCC patient dataset. Results: A pipeline using ROMEO phase unwrapping, V-SHARP background field removal, and iterative Tikhonov susceptibility calculation was found to be more repeatable than the previously reported best pipeline and showed nodal susceptibility differences in a HNSCC patient. Impact: This new optimized pipeline provides repeatable susceptibility values in key ROIs through the head and neck region and detected nodal susceptibility differences in a HNSCC patient. Therefore, it is applicable for clinical studies of tissue susceptibility and oxygenation in HNSCC.
Statistics of Referencing Susceptibility Maps in the Context of Clinical QSM Studies
Authors: Fuchs Patrick , Kiersnowski Oliver , Clayden Jon , Milovic Carlos , Shmueli Karin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: In QSM, there is no well-established susceptibility baseline . This can be determined a-posteriori by referencing to a specific tissue but this may impact statistics in clinical studies. Goal(s): To derive an expression for a t-test under referencing, and to investigate the effect of commonly used reference regions on a temporal lobe epilepsy study. Approach: Reference regions were compared: three anatomical structures and three derived from global thresholds. Changes in covariances, t-test results, and regional susceptibility distributions are presented. Results: Referencing to small regions has a bigger impact on statistical analyses than large references. Reference regions should have a low variance across groups. Impact: Referencing QSM susceptibility values is essential, but highly contested in practice, particularly in clinical applications. We clarify the statistical theory, and investigate the impact of referencing susceptibility measurements to different regions to facilitate practical implementation and clinical applications.
Systematic analysis of relaxometric constant in brain using temperature-dependent relaxometry and susceptibility: Toward 7T chi-separation
Authors: Shin Hyeong-Geol , Uchida Yuto , Redding-Ochoa Javier , Onda Kengo , Ji Sooyeon , Barrett Alexander , Bibic Adnan , Troncoso Juan C. , Kim Jiye , van Zijl Peter , Oishi Kenichi , Li Xu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Important physical parameter, relaxometric constant$$$\;{D_r}$$$, linking magnetic susceptibility to induced transverse relaxation acceleration (i.e.,$$$\;{R2'}$$$) has not yet been fully understood in brain. Goal(s): To investigate underlying mechanisms affecting relaxometric constant in brain using temperature-dependent relaxometry and susceptibility and explore a better field-strength correction for ultra-high-field MRI. Approach: 3T and 7T R2*/R2'/quantitative-susceptibility maps were acquired from a post-mortem brain at different temperatures and analyzed based on the physical model. Results: In human brain, effects of temperature-dependent water susceptibility, water diffusion, and field strength on Dr were observed, and a field-strength correction coefficient was calculated, generating consistent chi-separation maps at both 3T and 7T. Impact: A better understanding of relaxometric constant in brain can provide better insight on effects of susceptibility sources (e.g., iron and myelin), on MR relaxometry, improving quantification accuracy of those biological substances using MRI.
Association of CSF amyloid-β and tau with diffusion along the perivascular space in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Welton Thomas , Tan Nicole , Kumar Sumeet , Keong Nicole , Teo Thomas , Ng Adeline
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Glymphatic clearance of toxic proteins, quantified by the “DTI-along-the-perivascular-space” (ALPS) index, is impaired in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) Goal(s): We tested the association of the ALPS index to CSF Aβ and tau. Approach: We used imaging, CSF biomarker, and neuropsychological assessment data from 12 MCI, 21 AD, and 11 other dementia patients. We generated color FA maps and ALPS ROIs, before testing the interaction effects of ALPS × group on each CSF biomarker measure. Results: In our sample of AD and mild cognitive impairment patients (n=44), we found significant positive association of CSF tau and phosphorylated tau (but not amyloid-β) with the ALPS index. Impact: Our study establishes a novel link between brain glymphatic function and CSF phosphorylated tau in AD via the ALPS index.
Alteration in asymmetry of glymphatic system function in patients with Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes
Authors: Gao Lu , Li Xianjun , Yang Jian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (SLECTS) is the most prevalent type of idiopathic childhood epilepsy. However, the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms of SLECTS is largely unknown. Goal(s): Studies on the glymphatic system function in SLECTS patients may contribute to better understanding of the associated mechanisms. Approach: Diffusion tensor imaging analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) was used to evaluate the glymphatic system function. Results: The SLECTS patients exhibited altered DTI-ALPS index. Altered DTI-ALPS index were more severe in ipsilateral than in the contralateral hemisphere. Moreover, RSLECTS (Right SLECTS ) and LSLECTS (Left SLECTS) patients exhibited different change patterns of the glymphatic system. Impact: This study indicating that the glymphatic system may be a separate system in the left and right hemispheres. Patients with RSLECTS and LSLECTS exhibited different pattern of glymphatic system changes. Our research may contribute to elucidating the pathophysiologic of SLECTS.
Alterations in Brain Glymphatic Function and White Matter Microstructural Properties in patients with IBD
Authors: Wang Jun , Liu Guangyao , Zhang Pengfei , Ai Kai , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The mechanisms underlying brain structural changes and its relationship with neuropsychological symptoms in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain unclear. Goal(s): To explore the relationship between the function of the glymphatic system, changes in white matter microstructure, and clinical symptoms in patients with IBD. Approach: Diffusion along perivascular spaces (DTI-ALPS) and tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) techniques were used. Results: The observed alterations in white matter microstructure and decreased clearance rate of the glymphatic system in IBD may be an external manifestation of neuroinflammation. These abnormalities are related to sleep disorders and pain in IBD patients. Impact: Neuroinflammation is known to have adverse effects on glymphatic flow. The changes in diffusion MRI indicators suggest glymphatic dysfunction in IBD. Chronic visceral pain reduces the diffusion rate. The changes in diffusion MRI indicators are associated with poor cognitive performance.
Development of Cervical Spine Mimicking Phantom for Diffusion MRI Near Metal
Authors: Ketsiri Thammathida , Dortch Richard , Li Zhiqiang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Diffusion-MRI (dMRI) is increasingly used to evaluate neurological disorders and injuries of the spinal cord. Unfortunately, high-quality dMRI for post-surgical evaluation of the spinal cord is often limited due to the distortion artifacts from metal implants. Goal(s): The goal of this work is to assist in the development of novel imaging protocols to overcome this challenge. Approach: To do this, a cervical spine phantom was developed to replicate the spine’s geometric and MRI properties along with the image artifacts generated from metal implants. Results: Preliminary data demonstrated that the model is helpful for visualizing and developing novel dMRI protocols near metal implants. Impact: The proposed cervical spine phantom, designed to characterize the dMRI performance of the spinal cord post-surgery, including artifacts from metallic implants, is potentially helpful for developing novel imaging techniques for post-surgical spinal cord injuries.
Strain tensor imaging using single-shot multi-slice DENSE in a pediatric population at 7T
Authors: van der Plas Merlijn , van der Voort Elisabeth , Wijnen Jannie , Bhogal Alex , Leenders Anne , Wiegers Evita , Hoving Eelco , Partanen Marita , Zwanenburg Jaco
Published: November 2024

Motivation: DENSE can provide information about the brain pulsations that likely reflect the condition of blood vessels, which may deteriorate following treatment in pediatric brain tumors. Goal(s): The goal of this study is to perform an initial analysis of this single-shot multi-slice DENSE data in a pediatric population to study the robustness of this sequence during motion. Approach: By using a single-shot multi-slice DENSE sequence, brain motion maps were acquired from which strain maps could be derived on a voxel-wise level. Results: Even though the pediatric participants moved during the MR-acquisition, good quality strain maps were obtained with the expected patterns (as in adults). Impact: Single-shot strain tensor imaging allows evaluation of cardiac-related brain tissue strain, in a pediatric cohort of posterior fossa tumor, despite the presence of unwanted head motion. This enables investigating strain as potential new biomarker of neurovascular integrity in patients.
Mitigating Distortion Artifacts in Accelerated-EPI Using an Ensemble of k-t GRAPPA Kernels (EnKT-GRAPPA)
Authors: Lin Yimeng , Abraham Daniel , Wang Nan , Setsompop Kawin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: EPI suffers from field-inhomogeneity distortions. Employing large inplane acceleration (Rinplane) can mitigate this issue at a cost of increase noise and artifacts, while postprocessing correction can lead to resolution-loss. Goal(s): Develop a reconstruction method based on an ensemble of k-t GRAPPA-kernels (EnKT-GRAPPA) for use on moderately-accelerated EPI, to both fill missing-kspace and reduce distortion. Approach: EnKT-GRAPPA kernels are trained using k-t calibration data to fill missing-kspace and correct for cumulative-phase of field-inhomogeneity in one step, where phase/distortion correction level can be flexibly tuned. Results: For the same distortion mitigation level, EnKT-GRAPPA-reconstructed-images exhibit higher-SNR compared to those from conventional GRAPPA-reconstructed-images of a higher-Rinplane acquisition. Impact: EnKT-GRAPPA enables moderately accelerated EPI to achieve a high level of distortion mitigation while preserving SNR. This method should be useful in many applications such as fMRI, diffusion and perfusion imaging.
Comparison of data-driven approaches for gradient delay corrections in PDFF mapping using a radial stack-of-stars acquisition
Authors: Braun Philipp , Zoellner Christoph , Stelter Jonathan , Peeters Johannes , Weiss Kilian , Braren Rickmer , Junker Daniela , Karampinos Dimitrios
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Data-driven eddy current compensation would allow corrections to be performed retroactively on scanned data without the need for calibration scans or direct measurements during the scan. Goal(s): This work aims to evaluate data-based eddy current correction techniques for self-gated free-breathing radial SOS sequences in the liver. Approach: PDFF liver maps were obtained using free-breathing radial SoS scans from four volunteers and the eddy current corrected results were compared to a clinically established breath-hold cartesian sequence. Results: Data-driven eddy current corrections improve PDFF map homogeneity for radial SoS sequences with the RING method outperforming the spoke alignment. Impact: Prior studies analyzed various data-driven eddy current corrections in radial imaging, but never quantitatively assessed in vivo PDFF maps. This work is the first to apply multiple data-driven correction techniques in vivo, comparing them to clinically established breath-hold cartesian sequences.
Real-time Multislice-to-volume Motion Correction with B1+ Shimming for Task-based Functional MRI at 7T
Authors: Winata Steven , Hoinkiss Daniel , Keith Graeme , Williams Sydney , Ding Belinda , al-Wasity Salim , Gunamony Shajan , Porter David
Published: November 2024

Motivation: 7T MRI has the capacity for higher resolution imaging, but is also more sensitive to motion artefacts and B1+ field inhomogeneity. A motion-robust, B1+ homogeneous technique will enable routine 7T usage for motion-sensitive protocols such as in fMRI. Goal(s): Our goal was to develop integrated real-time motion correction and parallel transmission technique that improves the data quality in 7T fMRI. Approach: The multislice-to-volume motion correction technique and the capability to execute slice-specific B1+ shims were integrated into an in-house-developed EPI sequence. A cohort was scanned in a task fMRI study. Results: The combined technique demonstrated reduced motion, increased brain activation and improved tSNR. Impact: With improved data quality, the integrated real-time motion correction and B1+ shimming parallel transmission technique provides an option for better statistical parametric mapping in neuroscience studies with 7T fMRI, and potentially benefiting other future 7T applications.
Rapid FLASH scout and guidance lines for robust retrospective motion correction across all 2D TSE contrasts
Authors: Polak Daniel , Splitthoff Daniel Nicolas , Clifford Bryan , Feiweier Thorsten , Huang Yantu , Lo Wei-Ching , Huang Susie Y. , Conklin John , Wald Lawrence L. , Cauley Stephen F.
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Motion remains a common source of artifacts in brain imaging. Goal(s): To facilitate retrospective motion correction across all 2D TSE contrasts. Approach: A 1-2 sec pre-scan (scout) using a saturation preparation and FLASH readout precedes the TSE imaging scan and is then compared to two additional rapid FLASH k-space encoding lines (guidance lines) inserted after every TSE echo train. The contrast-matched scout and guidance line data provide fully separable estimation of motion parameters shot-by-shot using a SENSE+motion model. Results: In vivo, rapid motion trajectory estimation and robust artifact mitigation is demonstrated in T1w, T2w and FLAIR TSE scans with instructed subject motion. Impact: We present a generalized strategy for retrospective motion correction in 2D TSE brain imaging using an ultra-fast pre-scan and the repeated acquisition of two additional k-space lines. This facilitates rapid motion estimation and robust artifact mitigation across all TSE contrasts.
Motion and B0 correction for multiparametric mapping with jointly acquired FID and spherical navigators
Authors: Hewlett Miriam , Oran Omer , Liu Junmin , Drangova Maria
Published: November 2024

Motivation: In cases of motion, multi-echo GRE sequences are susceptible to motion artifacts as well as additional phase errors caused by motion-induced B0 inhomogeneity. Goal(s): Implement jointly acquired FID and spherical navigators for prospective correction of motion and retrospective correction of field offsets in a multi-echo GRE protocol for multiparametric mapping. Approach: One volunteer was scanned with/without prospective motion correction. Motion was guided by visual prompt to produce repeatable and clinically relevant trajectories. Results: Prospective motion correction alone provided a notable improvement in image quality, as well as quantitative fat-fraction, R2*, and susceptibility maps. Additional retrospective correction of field offsets reduced residual artifacts. Impact: Combining spherical navigators with an additional FID readout is a promising approach to simultaneous motion and B0 correction with multiple applications, including quantitative mapping techniques.
Prospective Motion Correction with Radial MRI for Improved Neuroimaging during Severe Motion
Authors: Schauman Sophie , van Niekirk Adam , Rydén Henric , Norbeck Ola , Sprenger Tim , Avventi Enrico , Skare Stefan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Prospective motion correction can correct motion-induced sampling errors in real time but is still sensitive to large motion due to position based non-linear phase differences. Goal(s): We aim to increase motion robustness of 3D sequences. Approach: By combining prospective motion correction with radial sampling, non-linear phase errors can be mitigated due to repeated sampling of the k-space center. Results: We show that prospective motion correction alone is enough for subtle motion but during severe motion (rotations well above ±5°) radial sampling can outperform Cartesian sampling. Impact: Radial sampling in combination with prospective motion correction allows for imaging during severe motion corruption. This is crucial in imaging e.g. paediatric populations.