bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motion Estimation and Retrospective Correction in 2D Cartesian Turbo Spin Echo Spine Scans
Authors: Clifford Bryan , Lo Wei-Ching , Polak Daniel , Splitthoff Daniel , Hossbach Julian , Conklin John , Wald Lawrence , Huang Susie , Cauley Stephen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Patient motion during spine MRI significantly degrades diagnostic utility. Goal(s): Demonstrate the benefits of an efficient retrospective motion correction technique across clinical 2D TSE spine protocols. Approach: A rapid low-resolution scout scan in combination with a small number of additional calibration lines are utilized for on-the-fly bulk motion estimation. Region-targeting coil-combination methods are used to model non-rigid motion in the spine. Generalized reconstructions are performed using locally rigid motion information. Results: Improved image quality for in vivo L- and C-spine scans utilizing partially non-rigid motion correction for instructed subject motion experiments. Impact: A strategy for performing motion estimation and correction in TSE spine imaging is proposed. Region-targeting coil-combination methods allow for isolation of different spatial sources of non-rigid motion. Improved image quality is demonstrated in vivo under supervised motion conditions.
Two novel applications of 3D amplified MRI (aMRI)
Authors: Kumar Haribalan , Condron Paul , Cornfeld Daniel , Terem Itamar , Kwon Eryn , Gale Jesse , Wilson Graham , Danesh-Myer Helen Helen , Holdsworth Samantha
Published: November 2024

Motivation: We intend to employ advanced imaging methods to explain pathologic clinical scenarios involving the spine and optical nerve sheath. Motion in these applications is driven by cardiac pulsatility, and the pulsatile motion occurs across CSF-tissue boundary. Goal(s): In this work, we tested if cardiac-gated cine MR imaging combined with video amplification can visualize sub-voxel motion. Approach: Pulsatile motion profiles were extracted and quantitatively compared. Results: Pulsatile motion in healthy and pathological use cases are compared. Impact: Amplified MRI (aMRI) is a visualization method that shows pulsatile dynamics and is used to study brain pulsation. We have shown additional use-cases in spinal cord motion and optical nerve sheath dynamics.
Discrimination between white and gray matter in the cervical spinal cord using the Myelin-Sensitive Inversion Recovery (MySIR)
Authors: Nitta Keisuke , Yokota Hajime , Kurosawa Ryuna , Sada Takayuki , Sato Hirotaka , Matsumoto Koji , Namiki Takashi , Yoneyama Masami , Gilbert Guillaume , Masuda Yoshitada , Uno Takashi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Discrimination between gray and white matter of the spinal cord remains challenging. Goal(s): To investigate imaging techniques that best discriminate gray matter from white matter. Approach: Inhomogeneous magnetization transfer (ihMT) and phase-sensitive inversion recovery (PSIR) have been reported effective in discriminating between gray and white matter. Myelin-sensitive inversion recovery (MySIR) was compared with ihMT and PSIR for evaluating the discriminability between gray and white matter. Results: MySIR had the highest contrast ratio compared to ihMT and PSIR. Impact: MySIR was superior to ihMT and PSIR in discriminating gray matter from white matter, and MySIR can be useful as a new myelin-specific MR imaging technique for spinal cord segmentation.
Regional high iron deposition on quantitative susceptibility mapping correlates with cognitive impairment in patients with hemodialysis
Authors: Yanwei Miao , Yuan Li , Yuhan Jiang , Bingbing Gao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often have brain iron overload and with cognitive impairment, so it is important to control clinical iron overload. Goal(s): To evaluate the changes of gray matter nucleus iron deposition in CKD patients, and analyze the correlation between iron deposition and cognitive function. Approach: Recruit CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis, non-hemodialysis patients and healthy controls. The magnetic susceptibility value of gray matter nuclei was measured by quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) and compare QSM data and cognitive scores among three groups. Results: Brain iron deposition is increased in CKD patients, especially in hemodialysis patients, and is related to cognitive function. Impact: Compared with full-structure analysis, regional analysis seems to be more sensitive to related changes. In addition, CKD patients were divided into groups to explore not only the effect of CKD on brain iron deposition, but also the role of hemodialysis.
Whole Brain Amide Proton Transfer Weighted Imaging in Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Tan Weiting , LIN Guisen , Deng Kan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Investigations of amide proton signal changes in the brain of children with OSA may provide imaging markers for early diagnosis. Goal(s): To explore the APTw signal changes in children with OSA and to evaluate the association of APTw signal in different brain regions with the cognitive impairment. Approach: Forty-six children with mild to severe OSA and 20 HV underwent whole brain APTw imaging scan. Statistical analysis was performed for inter-group comparison and correlation analysis. Results: The APTw signals in some brain regions in children with moderate-severe OSA were significantly lower than that of HV. The APTw signals were significantly associated with cognitive scores. Impact: APTw imaging could be used for assessment of neurocognitive impairment in children with OSA.
Evaluation of the changes of GABA and T2 mapping in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment
Authors: Tian Yiran , Hou Wentao , Xia Chunhua , Cheng Yongjun , Han Lu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Exploring alterations in brain microstructure and neurotransmitter content in post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). Goal(s): To investigate the influence of T2 mapping and MEGA-PRESS on brain microstructure and neurotransmitter content in PSCI individuals. Approach: MRI scans were performed on 14 patients from the PSCI group and 11 healthy volunteers. GABA and Glx spectra were gathered, followed by T2 mapping. Results: The study found lower GABA+/Water ratios in the prefrontal cortex of the PSCI group than the healthy group. Additionally, the PSCI group showed significantly higher T2 values in the right frontal and left occipital lobes. Impact: This study confirmed that the combined measurement of brain GABA content and relaxation using MEGA-PRESS and T2 mapping sequence has clinical value. This provides a clinical idea for exploring the occurrence and development of cognitive disorders such as PSCI.
Reduced cerebral oxygen extraction and metabolic rate in newborns with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy
Authors: Jiang Dengrong , Golden W. , Hu Zhiyi , Yazbek Sandrine , Tekes Aylin , Shi Wen , Gou Yifan , Shepard Jennifer , Aycan Fulden , Parkinson Charlamaine , Lu Hanzhang , Northington Frances , El-Metwally Dina , Liu Peiying
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Over 40% of neonates with moderate or severe hypoxic-ischemic-encephalopathy (HIE) still suffer from death, disability or neurodevelopmental delay after standard hypothermia treatment. Assessment of the brain’s oxygen metabolism may provide useful biomarkers to identify the risk of permanent neurologic injury and determine the necessity of adjuvant treatments. Goal(s): To evaluate cerebral oxygen-extraction-fraction (OEF) and cerebral-metabolic-rate-of-oxygen (CMRO2) in neonates with HIE in comparison with healthy newborns. Approach: We measured OEF and CMRO2 in 42 neonates with HIE and 52 healthy newborns. Results: Neonates with HIE exhibited diminished OEF and CMRO2. Furthermore, a lower OEF predicted a longer stay in the neonatal ICU. Impact: The brain’s physiological parameters such as oxygen-extraction-fraction can provide additional information (beyond standard clinical indices) for cerebral injury evaluation and treatment planning for hypoxic-ischemic-encephalopathy.
Quantitative susceptibility mapping in the newborn brain with source separation: Comparison of preterm and full-term infants
Authors: Jang MinJung , Dimov Alexey , Park Shin-Eui , Mallack Eric , Wang Yi , Nguyen Thanh , Zun Zungho
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Estimating iron and myelin contents in the newborn brain can be used to access neurodevelopment, but is challenging with conventional quantitative susceptibility mapping. Goal(s): To separate positive and negative susceptibilities in the newborn brain and investigate differences between preterm and full-term newborns. Approach: A total of 22 full-term and 10 preterm newborns were studied using quantitative susceptibility mapping with R2*-based source separation. Mean susceptibilities within 10 regions-of-interests were compared between full-term and preterm newborns. Results: Preterm brains showed less positive and negative susceptibilities, compared to the full-term brains. Impact: This study suggests that positive and negative magnetic susceptibilities in the newborn brain may be estimated individually using quantitative susceptibility mapping with source separation and may be used to identify early deviations from normal neurodevelopment in preterm-born infants.
Sex difference in brain white matter and relevant neurobehavioral development: preterm vs. term neonates
Authors: zhao huifang , feng yuying , liu yecheng , jin chao , yang jian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Preterm male present high risk for neurodevelopmental disability. However, sex differences in preterm neurodevelopmental characterization is not yet known. Goal(s): Investigate sex differences in neurodevelopmental evolution of preterm by exploring the postnatal age-related changes of brain white matter (WM) and neurobehavioral abilities. Approach: The diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameter FA was applied to indirectly reflect the changes of brain white matter microstructure. Results: The FA in preterm neonates is lower than term neonates which increased with postnatal age in both. Male presented significantly higher growth rate in certain brain regions compared with female especially for preterm male. Impact: Preterm male showed higher growth rate in certain brain regions which indicate a “catch-up” pattern toward the term neonates and this finding may suggest that certain intervention would be expected to work well in improving the preterm male outcome.
Alterations in Resting State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Children from Mexico with and without Obesity
Authors: de Celis Alonso Benito , de la Rosa Maria Isabel Antonio , García José Gerardo Suárez , Tobón Silvia Hidalgo , Suárez Pilar Dies , Barbosa Eduardo Moreno , Pérez Eduardo Barragán , Martínez Briseida López , Wah-So Po
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Obesity and its associated comorbidities represent a health risk to population. This is even more relevant to children, as it can affect their cognitive development. Goal(s): Understanding the neurological pathophysiology of infant obsity is of paramount interest. Approach: Find differences in functional connectivity between infant obese and normoweight groups. This using Resting State and ROI to ROI analysesResults: Both groups presented the 15 RS-networks except for the Executive Control Network for the obese. The obese groups recruited three times more brain regions for the different RS-networks. ROI-to-ROI analysis presented larger number of connections for the Normoweight involving the Cerebellum and the Left-Inferior-Gyrus. Impact: This is a first step in a larger project in which cognitive deficits of children associated with obesity are correlated to brain function through MRI and cytokine measurements. Here we establish ground differences between obese and normoweight cohorts.
Longitudinal MR Elastography of Brain Mechanical Property Maturation During Adolescence
Authors: Twohy Kyra , Merker Julia , Church Leah , McIlvain Grace , Spielberg Jeffrey , Johnson Curtis
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) sensitively captures structural changes in the brain. However, application of this technique has been limited to cross-sectional studies in adolescents. Goal(s): Our aim was to examine, for the first time, longitudinal changes in MRE-derived brain tissue mechanical properties during adolescence. Approach: Shear stiffness and damping ratio were calculated for 14 adolescents during two study visits separated by a year. Results: Stiffness significantly decreased over one year. The largest stiffness declines were in subcortical gray matter, in agreement with cross-sectional studies. Changes in both shear stiffness and damping ratio were correlated with progression of puberty. Impact: This longitudinal study found wide-spread softening of brain tissue during adolescence, supporting cross-sectional findings. These changes were also correlated with the progression of puberty. This confirms the sensitivity of mechanical properties to capture structural changes of brain maturation.
Transcriptome-Connectome association from fetal stage to adulthood
Authors: Ouyang Minhui , Poddar Tanay , Santpere Gabriel , Andrijevic David , Ma Shaojie , Pattabiraman Kartik , Gobeske Kevin , Sestan Nenad , Huang Hao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Transcriptome, representing the set of gene expression, exhibits spatiotemporal heterogeneity during brain development, underlying the dramatic changes in brain structural connectivity as measured by diffusion MRI throughout development. Goal(s): Our goal was to elucidate the association between macroscopic structural connectome and microscopic transcriptome across development. Approach: Here, we revealed this dynamic association between structural connectome and gene expression from a large cohort of 336 participants from fetal stage to adulthood. Results: The changes of associated genes’ enrichment in cell types, biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions across different ages shed light into the dynamic transcriptomic roles in connectome maturation. Impact: By associating transcriptome map from over 6500 protein-encoding genes and dMRI-derived structural network, we revealed spatiotemporally heterogeneous transcriptome-connectome association from fetal stage to adulthood, providing insights into genetically patterned process of brain topological changes in health and disease.
Spatiotemporal developmental pattern of brain myelination from 0 to 6 years old
Authors: Zhang Yuqi , Li Mingyang , Wu Jiani , Zhao Zhiyong , Xu Xinyi , Zhao Ruoke , Chen Ruike , Chen Yiwei , Wu Dan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Myelination in the human brain extends from late pregnancy to the end of adolescence. Yet, its developmental pattern during this period is not fully understand. Goal(s): We use the BCP dataset to investigate early brain myelination between 0-6 years old. Approach: We utilized T1-/T2-weighted intensity, a surrogate marker for myelin. Results: We identified five spatial patterns with distinct developmental trajectories and investigated the biological implications of myelination on developmental diseases, finding that the myelin content of corpus callosum had a significant fully mediated effect on ASD-related indicators. Furthermore, we found an alternation of myelination development affected by preterm birth in a separate cohort. Impact: We investigated myelination patterns in infants and toddlers by T1w/T2w based on the BCP dataset and identified five distinct regional developmental trajectories. Using a mediation analysis, we found an intrinsic association between myelination and ASD-related restricted repetitive behaviors.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Pediatric Noonan Syndrome: Comparison with Non-syndromic Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Zhu Leyi , Chow Kelvin , An Jing , Lu Minjie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The high prevalence of cardiac involvement necessitates comprehensive cardiac exploration at diagnosis and during follow-up in NS, especially when NS was found to be a risk factor in children with HCMGoal(s): Our study aimed to identify and assess the cardiac MRI features of NS in comparison with non-syndromic HCM in a cohort of young childrenApproach: 10 young children genetically confirmed with NS and 10 children genetically confirmed with HCM were evaluated by cardiac MRIResults: ROC curves documented the diagnostic performance of MRI features(LGE quantification, T1 mapping and strain analysis) in differentiating NS patients from HCM patientsImpact: We performed comprehensive evaluation of pediatric NS by comparison with non-syndromic HCM, and defined a vital role of cardiac MRI in NS. Comprehensive cardiac MRI findings will provide more insights into the rare hereditary cardiomyopathy for researchers and clinicians
Voxel size matter: an analysis of the sampling bias in Monte Carlo simulation and realistic synthetic substrates using CACTUS
Authors: Haro Juan Luis Villarreal , Gardier Remy , Rodríguez Erick Canales , Gomez Elda , Girard Gabriel , Thiran Jean-Philippe , Rafael-Patiño Jonathan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: This work addresses the sampling bias related to voxel size and boundary conditions in DW-MRI Monte-Carlo simulations. Goal(s): The study aims to understand how voxel-size and boundary-conditions influence Monte-Carlo simulations in DW-MRI to ensure convergence and minimise errors. Approach: It uses simulations with realistic synthetic white-matter substrates and calculates diffusion propagators and apparent diffusion coefficients to measure simulation accuracy. Results: It underscores the significance of voxel-size and boundary conditions in Monte-Carlo simulation and offers insights for better simulation parameters in DW-MRI. It also highlights conditions where errors can reach 20% and shows the need for larger voxel-sizes to achieve convergence. Impact: The analysis focuses on making Monte-Carlo simulations reliable, enabling model validation from DW-MRI techniques. This has the potential to substantially improve microstructure assessment precision in clinical practice, enabling more accurate DW-MRI analysis.
Prospective gradient nonlinearity correction for diffusion MRI: uncover lost sensitivity to non-Gaussian diffusion and tissue microstructure
Authors: Zhu Ante , Lee Seung-Kyun , Malyarenko Dariya , Chenevert Thomas , Swanson Scott , Bernstein Matt
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Time-dependent diffusion MRI, which is sensitive to non-Gaussian diffusion, reveals tissue microstructures and has been shown to improve cancer imaging and neuroimaging. However, gradient nonlinearity results in subject position-dependent bias for non-Gaussian diffusion characterization. Correction methods are needed. Goal(s): To reduce the effect of gradient nonlinearity on 2D time-dependent diffusion MRI. Approach: Slice-by-slice scaling of diffusion encoding gradients was applied to compensate for gradient nonlinearity. Results: Uncorrected $$$\frac{ADC(60Hz)}{ADC(0Hz)}$$$ of a non-Gaussian diffusion phantom showed errors in off-center slices, where the actual diffusion gradient amplitude was reduced compared to prescribed values. The errors were reduced by prospectively increasing the prescribed diffusion gradient amplitude. Impact: MR physicists, neuroimaging scientists, and radiologists, who are interested in microstructure imaging by probing time-dependent, non-Gaussian diffusion, will benefit from increased robustness to gradient nonlinearity and subject position, especially when using high-performance gradient systems that may have increased nonlinearity.
Improving Oscillating Gradient Spin Echo based Time-Dependent Diffusion Imaging with Deep Learning-based Reconstruction: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Xiong Yuhui , Zhang Jialu , Nie Lisha , Wei Xiaocheng , Zhang Weijing , Meng Tiebao , Wu Bing
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Time-dependent diffusion MRI (td-dMRI) using oscillating gradient spin echo (OGSE) sequences is limited by low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and image quality. Goal(s): To investigate the potential of combining OGSE sequences with deep learning-based reconstruction (DLR) to enhance image quality and precision of quantitative results in td-dMRI. Approach: The OGSE-based td-dMRI images were reconstructed using both conventional method and DLR. The image SNR and quality, the precision of quantitative metrics and cellular-level microstructure maps without and with DLR were compared. Results: DLR improved the SNR of images and ADC maps, eliminated Gibbs-ringing artifacts, and reduced singular values and outliers in cellular-level microstructure maps. Impact: The combination of OGSE sequences with DLR shows promise in enhancing the image quality and quantification accuracy of td-dMRI. It may increase the feasibility and acceptance of the clinical application of OGSE-based td-dMRI.
Quantitative Brain Diffusion Metrics are Fragile to Voxel Size: A Prospective Volunteer Study Calling for Protocol Standardization
Authors: Zhong Jingyu , Liu Xianwei , Hu Yangfan , Lu Wenjie , Song Yang , Zhang Huan , Yao Weiwu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The quantitative brain diffusion metrics showed potential to provide functional information about diseases, but their robustness must be established before their implementation in clinical practice. Goal(s): To evaluate the variability and reproducibility of quantitative brain diffusion metrics. Approach: Fourteen volunteers prospectively underwent brain diffusion spectrum imagingusing a protocol designed to investigate the impact of scan-rescans, voxel size, coils on twenty-five quantitative diffusion metrics. Two observers drew thirteen regions of interests for metrics calculation. Results: The voxel size has a greater influence on reproducibility of quantitative diffusion metrics than scan-rescans and coils. The reproducibility within an observer was higher than that between two observers. Impact: Quantitative brain diffusion metrics, as promising tools for providing functional information of diseases, should be interpreted with caution because they are fragile to voxel size, which calls for standardization of scan protocols before prior to their implementation in clinical practice.
Correcting temperature related diffusivity drift for postmortem diffusion MRI
Authors: Paquette Michael , Eichner Cornelius , Bock Christian , Anwander Alfred
Published: November 2024

Motivation: In diffusion MRI, large post-mortem samples reach steady-state temperature and diffusivity only after a very long scan time. Goal(s): Our goal was to use data during steady-state temperature adaptation to model changing diffusivity and still obtain reliable tissue orientations. Approach: We estimated the diffusivities at steady-state temperature with a subset of the data and computed the temperature correction coefficients from the difference between predicted and measured data. Results: The corrected data has greatly increased test-retest agreement and angular accuracy of fiber orientation estimates. Impact: Accelerate post-mortem diffusion MRI by replacing dummy scans with our new data-driven temperature modeling.
Comparison of time-division multiplexing and multi-echo sequences for accelerated relaxation diffusion MRI
Authors: Liu Qiang , Zhu Ante , Shaik Imam Ahmed , Zaitsev Maxim , Foo Thomas , Nielsen Jon-Fredrik , Westin Carl-Fredrik , Rathi Yogesh , Ning Lipeng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Compare multi-echo and time-division multiplexing (TDM) sequences that accelerate multi-TE dMRI scans. Goal(s): To investigate the accuracy of multi-TE diffusion measures using multi-echo and TDM sequences. Approach: Standard single-TE spin-echo echo-planar imaging (EPI), dual-echo EPI, and TDM-EPI sequences were implemented using Pulseq with matched diffusion and readout gradients. A calibration phantom and a human subject were scanned on two scanners to examine the accuracy of R2 (1/T2) and apparent diffusivity coefficient (ADC) maps. Results: TDM demonstrates up to 160% reduction in estimated R2 on phantom and 30% in in-vivo data compared to dual-echo sequence. Impact: The proposed TDM sequence allows for fast and accurate T2 and ADC estimation compared to the conventional multi-echo sequence, making it a potential tool for relaxation-diffusion imaging.
QSM Reconstruction of Arbitrary Dipole Orientations using an End-to-end Neural Network via Latent Feature Editing
Authors: Gao Yang , Xiong Zhuang , Shan Shanshan , Li Min , Wilman Alan H , Pike G. Bruce , Liu Feng , Sun Hongfu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The performances of most DL-QSM methods are limited to MRI phase data of pure-axial acquisition orientation. Goal(s): In this work, we would like to propose a novel DL-based end-to-end neural network for QSM reconstruction from phase data of arbitrary dipole orientations. Approach: A novel Latent Feature Editing (LFE) module to learn the encoding of acquisition orientation vectors and seamlessly integrate them into the latent features of deep networks to make them orientation-adaptive. Results: Both simulated and in vivo experiments demonstrate that the proposed LFE module can result in desirable QSM images at arbitrary oblique head orientations. Impact: This work introduces a new DL paradigm, allowing researchers to develop innovative QSM methods without requiring a complete overhaul of their existing architectures.
Quantitative susceptibility mapping of brain iron predicts onset of mild cognitive impairment and cognitive decline
Authors: Chen Lin , Soldan Anja , Faria Andreia , Albert Marilyn , van Zijl Peter , Li Xu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Brain iron content may play an important role in the development of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and dementia due to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Goal(s): To investigate the utility of baseline brain iron levels, measured by quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM), to predict time to onset of symptoms of MCI and global cognitive decline among older adults with normal cognition at baseline. Approach: Cox regression models and linear mixed models were used. Results: Higher brain iron levels in entorhinal cortex and putamen were associated with an earlier time to MCI onset and greater global cognitive decline, independent of the volume and amyloid of those regions. Impact: Brain iron deposition assessed by QSM MRI may help predict risk of MCI onset and cognitive decline among cognitively normal individuals.
Intravenous arachnoid granulation volumetrics relate to sleep impairment in patients with Parkinson disease
Authors: Leguizamon Melanie , Ponzo Tristan , McKnight Colin , Song Alexander , Eisma Jarrod , Elenberger Jason , Claassen Daniel , Considine Ciaran , Donahue Manus , Hett Kilian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The high prevalence of sleep dysfunction in Parkinson disease (PD) leads to chronic dysregulation of the CSF circuits. Goal(s): Hypotheses regarding arachnoid granulation (AG) hypertrophy in patients with PD and its relationship to sleep dysfunction were tested. Approach: Sleep quality was assessed in PD patients. Using high resolution MRI and a novel deep-learning method, we assessed volumetrics measures of AG in the superior sagittal sinus. Results: We found that increased AG volumetrics in PD are significantly correlated with an increase of self-reported sleep disturbance and diurnal sleepiness, as well as actigraphy-based metrics of decreased sleep efficiency and increased wake after sleep onset. Impact: Findings suggest that sleep dysfunction plays a role intravenous AG morphology. This motivates future structural and functional imaging analysis of AG to understand how increased AG volume impacts patients with neurodegenerative proteinopathy and how dysfunctional sleep influences this relationship.
Deep-learning segmentation of peri-sinus structures reveals changes across the human lifespan with implications for neurofluid circulation
Authors: Hett Kilian , Leguizamon Melanie , McKnight Colin , Lindsey Jennifer , Eisma Jarrod , Song Alexander , Considine Ciaran , Claassen Daniel , Donahue Manus
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Peri-sinus structures such as the parasagittal dural space (PSD) and intravenous arachnoid granulation (AG) play an important role in regulating the CSF circulation. Goal(s): To investigate the volume of the PSD and AG in children and adults (age range=5-100 years). Approach: We refined and applied a novel deep-learning algorithm to estimate volumetric measures of PSD and intravenous AG in a large dataset (n=1,815) using 3D T2-weighted MRI. Results: Data confirm sex effects on PSD and AG volumes and indicate a more rapid growth in early life with an increase of 0.9 cm3 and 0.64 mm3 per year before plateauing in mid-adulthood. Impact: Analysis provides new insight into PSD and AG changes in a large dataset of healthy control participants. Findings demonstrate developmental PSD and intravenous AG changes, which may serve as an exemplar for normal vs. unhealthy aging across the lifespan.
Perivascular space semi-automated segmentation (PVSSAS) of 7T images from patients with and without epilepsy following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Reich Jason , Mylostna Krystyna , Dams-O'Connor Kristen , Dorman Katherine , Verma Guarav , Balchandani Priti , Delman Bradley , Fields Madeline , Yoo Ji Yeoun , Marcuse Lara , MacMillan Erin , Feldman Rebecca
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Perivascular spaces (PVSs) are small fluid-filled spaces between blood vessels and pia mater. PVSs may appear differently in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients with and without post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) due to their role in waste removal. Goal(s): To investigate characteristics of PVSs in PTE relative to TBI without PTE and healthy controls. Approach: A semi-automated workflow for segmenting PVSs was established and applied to images from a 7T MRI study, including 8 TBI patients with PTE, 18 TBI patients without PTE, and 22 healthy controls. Results: Larger median PVS equivalent diameter was observed in TBI, particularly with PTE, suggesting enlarged PVSs in TBI. Impact: Identification of increased median perivascular space equivalent diameter in traumatic brain injury, particularly cases that develop post-traumatic epilepsy as shown in this work, may improve diagnosis and prognostication for post-traumatic epilepsy.
The link between perivascular space and resting-state functional connectivity in cognitive healthy population
Authors: Shih Nien-Chu , Choupan Jeiran
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Perivascular space (PVS) is a pial-lined, fluid-filled structure that accompany penetrating arteries or draining veins from the cerebral cortex. PVS occupies a large portion of the cerebral tissue. The effect of PVS on the brain's functional connectivity has not yet been fully investigated. Goal(s): In particular, our goal was to determine the link between PVS, sleep and brain functional connectivity. Approach: We utilized the structural MRI and rs-fMRI data from the HCP-Aging dataset. Results: Results demonstrated that BG-PVS volume fraction was positively associated with FC of the right anterior medial temporal gyrus and a cluster in temporal regions. Impact: These findings suggest that PVS morphology may reflect changes in neural connectivity involved in memory-related processing and open a new PVS research field (structure to function) for investigation.
Using compressed sensing-accelerated 4D flow MRI to observe venous sinus hemodynamics：Performance at different acceleration factors
Authors: Cao Jiajun , Yuan Chang , Zhang Yukun , Lin Liangjie , Song Qingwei , Miao Yanwei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Due to the small diameter of intracranial-venous sinus, higher spatial resolution is required when using 4D-flow MRI to observe hemodynamics, which greatly prolongs scan time. Goal(s): Accelerating 4D-flow MRI of intracranial-venous sinus with compressed sensing (CS), and comparing the performance of CS acceleration factors (AFs). Approach: The 4D-flow hemodynamic of straight sinus, superior sagittal sinus and transverse sinus with different AFs (SENSE4, CS4, CS6, CS8, and CS10) were compared in 8 healthy volunteers. Results: Compared to the reference (SENSE4) scan, the hemodynamic for the straight sinus, several parameters were underestimated by CS6-CS10，while for the other sinuses obtained by CS4-CS10 showed no significant difference. Impact: 4D flow MRI with acceleration by compressed sensing can be used as a efficient method to evaluate venous sinus hemodynamics in routine clinical practice.
Evaluating Obstructive Sleep Apnea Neuropathophysiology with 1H-MRS and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Imaging
Authors: Bull Christopher , Zhang Tairon , Lancaster Kurt , Burke Peter , Butlin Mark , Botansky Corey , Schregel Katharina , Srirengan Arunan , Peters Ruth , Rae Caroline , Cysique Lucette , Brown Elizabeth , Bilston Lynne , Jugé Lauriane
Published: November 2024

Motivation: 1H-MRS may be sensitive enough to detect neuropathological mechanisms of cerebral small vessel disease in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Goal(s): To investigate the relationships between nocturnal blood pressure surges (caused by sleep disturbances) and hypoxic burden (due to recurring apnoeas) on 1H-MRS metabolite levels and cognitive performance. Approach: Seven controls and 23 participants with OSA underwent brain MRI, sleep physiological assessment and neuropsychological battery. Results: A higher hypoxic burden was associated with higher cellular energy (Cr/H2O) and acute inflammation (GPC/H20), while more frequent blood pressure surges were associated with higher chronic neuroinflammation (mI/H20). There were no associations with cognitive performance. Impact: Estimates of 1H-MRS metabolite levels, along with CSVD standard neuroimaging assessment, provide additional information concerning the neuro-cardiovascular and hypoxic burden associated with OSA that could potentially translate into improved early CSVD diagnosis in high-risk populations due to OSA.
Comparison of postmortem in situ 3T MRI and ex vivo ultra-high-resolution 7T MRI in multiple sclerosis cortical lesions
Authors: Nakamura Kunio , Sakaie Ken , Chen Jacqueline , Mahajan Kedar , Trapp Bruce , Lowe Mark , Jones Stephen , Ontaneda Daniel , Obusez Emmanuel
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cortical lesions in multiple sclerosis are clinically relevant but cannot be detected reliably using conventional MRI. Ex vivo ultra-high-resolution MRI is reliable in cortical lesion detection. Goal(s): Identify cortical lesions on ex vivo 7T MRI in comparison to postmortem in situ conventional 3T MRI. Approach: Retrospective visual assessment of cortical lesions on conventional MRI. Results: 3T T1-weighted MPRAGE showed the highest sensitivity (66%), followed by T2-weighted SPACE (52%), and 3D FLAIR (48%) for detection of cortical lesions. Purely cortical lesions were less visible on in situ MRIs. Some leukocortical lesions appeared juxtacortical white matter lesions on conventional MRI. Impact: Ultra-high-resolution MRI provides a platform to investigate substrates of cortical pathology in multiple sclerosis by bridging the gap between macroscopic conventional MRI and pathology.
Linking inter-individual differences in brain structure to post-COVID fatigue
Authors: Bao Wenrui , Niu Xuan , Luo Zhaoyao , Yuan Huijie , Lu Tao , Bai Weixian , Mu Junya , Wei Xiaocheng , Zhang Ming
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Identify individuals at risk of developing post-COVID fatigueGoal(s): Propose a "vulnerability" hypothesis of post-COVID fatigueApproach: A multi-center, prospective, longitudinal studyResults: The GMV in frontal-limbic regions may serve as potential neural underpinnings that identify individuals at risk of developing post-COVID fatigueImpact: Our findings emphasized the essential role of frontal-limbic system in the development of post-COVID fatigue, which will improve public health interventions by allowing for the early identification of individuals at risk of persistent post-COVID fatigue and facilitating subsequent neuromodulation treatment.
Spinal cord injury-induced changes in thoracolumbar microarchitecture: a semi-automated DTI pipeline for improved clinical translation
Authors: Bright Georgia , Walls Angela , Feiweier Thorsten , Lakshantha Wickramaarchchigeige , Stroman Patrick , Clark Jillian , Doig Ryan O'Hare
Published: November 2024

Motivation: While diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is sensitive to spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced microstructural changes, manual pre-processing of thoracolumbar spinal cord (TL-SC) data precludes its clinical translation. Goal(s): We aimed to optimise a semi-automatic TL-SC DTI protocol to detect SCI-induced microarchitectural changes. Approach: TL-SC DTI data from two participants with diagnosed SCI and six healthy volunteers were pre-processed to equate the TL-SC microarchitecture and then compared to semi-automated analysis. Results: Our optimised TL-SC DTI acquisition and semi-automatic analysis pipeline is sensitive to SCI-induced microstructural changes and may provide a more clinically viable method for TL-SC DTI analysis. Impact: This study assessed and validated our newly developed thoracolumbar spinal cord (TL-SC) diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) pipeline in detecting spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced microstructural changes and offers an alternative semi-automatic pre-processing method for improved clinical translation.
Demonstration of TE-dependence of lateralization of structural connectomes
Authors: He Yifei , Liu Xiaoming , Sun Peng , Wang Tenglong , Zhang Yizhe , Qin Jiaolong , Zhou Tao , Wu Ye
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Lateralization of structural connectomes has become a widespread measurement for investigating brain asymmetry alterations during brain development, maturation and aging in health and disease. However, it is still unclear whether the acquisition parameters affect the lateralization measurement of structural connectomes. Goal(s): We aim to investigate the TE-dependence of lateralization of structural connectomes. Approach: We compared the lateral indices of structural connectivity generated by diffusion MRI on five different TEs. Results: Diverse TE values in MRI scans lead to apparent differences in connectome lateralization, with more than 30% of connections of the same subject likely to have different lateral indices. Impact: This research reveals the unknown relationship between TE and connectome lateralization and discover the potential influence of TE in connectome’s anatomy analysis, helping improve the acquisition protocol of future neuroimaging studies, especially in brain asymmetry during development, maturation and aging.
Recognition of Delayed Hypoxic Leukoencephalopathy after a Severe Drug Overdose Using a Divided Subtracted Inversion Recovery (dSIR) Sequence
Authors: Condron Paul , Newburn Gil , Tayebi Maryam , Kwon Eryn , Griffin Mark , Scadeng Miriam , Holdsworth Samantha , Cornfeld Daniel , Bydder Graeme
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Divided Subtracted Inversion Recovery (dSIR) sequences can show subtle abnormalities due to small increases in T1 that are not seen with conventional sequences,Goal(s): To use dSIR sequences to examine the brain in a patient nine months after severe drug overdose associated with prolonged hypoxia and compare the dSIR images with T2-FLAIR images. Approach: MRI scans obtained on an 18-y/o male control and a 19-y/o male patient. 2D IR FSE sequences were performed with TIs chosen to null WM, and a longer TIi producing dSIR images. Results: Widespread abnormalities seen on dSIR images in areas of WM that appeared normal on T2-FLAIR images. Impact: In a patient imaged nine months after a severe drug overdose, dSIR images showed extensive abnormalities in white matter that appeared normal on T2-FLAIR images. Widespread white matter changes may be common unrecognised sequelae of severe drug overdoses.
Novel 3D myelin weighted imaging in the cervical spinal cord using myelin-sensitive inversion recovery (MySIR): a feasibility study
Authors: Azuma Minako , Enzaki Masahiro , Yoneyama Masami , Kadota Yoshihito , Matsumura Kengo
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Myelin water fraction (MWF) is a promising method for quantitative evaluation of myelin function in the brain. On the other hand, myelin-sensitive inversion recovery (MySIR) sequence is thought to show spinal myelin structure. Goal(s): To evaluate the feasibility of MySIR imaging for myelin visualization in the cervical spinal cord. . Approach: MySIR images were compared with MWF as the gold standard. Results: We have demonstrated that MySIR showed similar results to MWF in evaluating the distribution of myelin in the spine. MySIR may be useful for evaluating the distribution of myelin. Impact: MySIR gave us a novel contrast between grey matter and white matter. Additionally, MySIR showed similar results to MWF in evaluating myelin.　We demonstrated the feasibility of MySIR for evaluating the distribution of myelin in cervical spine.
Evaluation of a rapid multi-parametric quantitative brain mapping method in awake children
Authors: Ramaniharan Anandh Kilpattu , Pednekar Amol , Parikh Nehal , Nagaraj Usha , Manhard Mary Kate
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Rapid multi-contrast MRI acquisitions are crucial to minimize motion artifacts in awake pediatric subjects. Goal(s): To evaluate a newly developed EPI-based multi-contrast MRI sequence for generating multi-parametric quantitative brain maps in awake pediatric participants. Approach: T1, T2, and T2* measurements were obtained using the rapid imaging sequence in 17 children (age 3-10 years). The parametric values were compared to those acquired using conventional mapping sequences, and repeatability and reproducibility were assessed. Results: The brain relaxation parametric values obtained with the rapid sequence were comparable to those obtained through conventional acquisitions. Furthermore, these values exhibited good repeatability and reproducibility. Impact: Rapid (1 minute and 15 seconds) measurements of T1, T2, and T2* in the brains of awake children (aged 3-10 years) were comparable to those obtained using conventional quantitative mapping methods.
Common and distinct cortical thickness alterations in youth with autism spectrum disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: You Wanfang , Chen Lizhou , Li Qian , He Ning , Long Fenghua , Wang Yaxuan , Chen Yufei , Li Fei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are neurodevelopmental disorders with overlapping behavioral features and genetic etiology. Exploring brain cortical thickness (CTh) could help understand the neurobiological basis which builds the bridge between clinical manifestations and genetic liability of the two disorders. Goal(s): To demonstrate the common and distinct of CTh changes in ASD and ADHD. Approach: Previous brain structural MRI studies analyzing CTh of ASD and ADHD were included and compared by vertex-based meta-analysis. Results: The ASD showed disorder-specific increased thickness in parietal lobule, and ADHD-specific decreased CTh was in motor area. Both disorders shared thinner thickness in temporo-parietal junction. Impact: The shared and different patterns of CTh alterations in ASD and ADHD provide objective evidence for transdiagnosis. The subtle differences in areas with distinct functions could partly explain the divergent behavioral features in the two disorders and elucidate disorder-specific etiologies.
Comparison of single-shot, FOCUS single-shot, MUSE, and FOCUS MUSE diffusion weighted imaging for pulmonary lesions: a pilot study
Authors: Fan Li , Li Jie , Xia Yi , Dai Jiankun , Sun Guangyuan , Xu Meiling , Lin Xiaoqing , Gu Lingling , Shi Jie , Liu Shiyuan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: DWI has been used for pulmonary lesion assessment. But clinical single-shot (SS) EPI DWI for lung is prone to susceptibility distortions. FOCUS SS, MUSE, and FOCUS MUSE are improved EPI-based techniques which are less sensitive to susceptibility artifacts. However, their performance for lung DWI remains unknown. Goal(s): Performance comparison among the four sequences for lung DWI. Approach: 44 patients were recruited, and each was imaged with the four sequences. Image quality and diagnostic performance of benign and malignant lesion discrimination were compared. Results: FOCUS MUSE had least distortions and best diagnostic performance. Impact: Application of FOCUS MUSE would be beneficial for lung lesion assessment.
Enhancing Diagnostic Precision in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Comparative Analysis of ADC and CTRW Models
Authors: Lai Bingjia , Yang Xiaojun , Duan Xiaohui , Qin Haodong , Ning Shunfeng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The unexplored potential of applying the continuous-time random walk (CTRW) model for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) grading, possibly surpassing the effectiveness of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). Goal(s): To compare ADC and CTRW in diagnosing ccRCC grades via MRI. Approach: This study involved 52 ccRCC patients and employed in-house software for CTRW and ADC maps. Statistical analysis employed Mann-Whitney U tests and ROC curves. Results: DCTRW outperformed ADC in grading ccRCC, effectively distinguishing between low- and high-grade cases, while αCTRW and βCTRW did not. Impact: This research has the potential to shape clinical practices, offering more accurate ccRCC diagnoses, leading to better treatment decisions, and driving advancements in renal cell carcinoma research.
Time-Dependent Diffusion MRI for Quantitative Microstructural Mapping of Intestinal Fibrosis in Patient with Crohn’s disease
Authors: Wang Xin-yue , Huang Li , ZHAO Chen , Wang Mengzhu , Chen MeiNing , Feng Shi-ting , Li Xue-hua
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Microstructural characteristics of intestinal fibrosis is a crucial determinant impacting the selection of therapeutic strategies and prognosis of patients with Crohn’s disease (CD). Goal(s): To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of time-dependent diffusion MRI (TD-dMRI) based microstructural mapping for noninvasive characterization of intestinal fibrosis in intestinal strictures in CD. Approach: TD-dMRI was performed in consecutive CD patients scheduled for surgery. TD-dMRI-based microstructural parameters acquired were compared with conventional apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and verified by histopathogical measures. Results: Multiparametric TD-dMRI-based microstructural mapping correlates with pathological findings and demonstrates promise for characterizing intestinal fibrosis in CD. Impact: Time-dependent diffusion MRI-based microstructural mapping demonstrates promise for noninvasively characterizing intestinal fibrosis of CD, with high accuracy against histopathologic standard, thus guiding treatment and predicting clinical outcome.
Quantification of non-Gaussian diffusion in the human heart in vivo
Authors: Afzali Maryam , Mueller Lars , Coveney Sam , Jones Sarah , Fasano Fabrizio , Evans John , Teh Irvin , Dall'Armellina Erica , Szczepankiewicz Filip , Jones Derek , Schneider Jürgen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Diffusion tensor modeling, which is based on Gaussian diffusion, is commonly used in cardiac diffusion MRI (dMRI). However, the tissue's microstructure (cells, membranes, etc.) restricts the water molecules and deviates the signal from Gaussian behavior. Goal(s): This effect may be observed for higher b-values, which are presently outside the realm of routine cardiac dMRI due to the limited gradient strength of clinical scanners. Approach: Cardiac-gated, second-order motion-compensated dMRI were performed with $$$\mathrm{b_{max}=1500\,s/mm^2}$$$ in healthy volunteers on a 3T MRI scanner with $$$\mathrm{G_{max}=300\,mT/m}$$$. Results: We demonstrate deviation of the signal from Gaussian decay at $$$\mathrm{b>500\,s/mm^2}$$$ confirming the presence of non-Gaussian diffusion at higher b-values. Impact: This work demonstrates feasibility of quantifying non-Gaussian diffusion in the human heart in vivo $$$\mathrm{\textbf{at realistic echo times}}$$$, using Connectom scanner ($$$\mathrm{G_{max}=300\,mT/m}$$$, 4-8 times stronger than clinical scanners). It may open the field for new biomarkers in cardiac diffusion MRI.