bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different distribution patterns of blood flow velocity in venous stenosis segment in idiopathic intracranial hypertension using 7T 4D flow MRI
Authors: Zhang Xue , Pei Xun , Kong Qingle , Li Yuan , Mo Dapeng , Sui Binbin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The distribution pattern of blood flow velocity in venous sinus stenosis is worth exploring, and its screening value for venous stenting is unknown yet. Goal(s): To explore velocity distribution pattern in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) patients with venous stenosis and its relationships with clinical characteristics. Approach: Fifteen IIH patients with venous stenosis were scanned through 4D flow MRI with 7.0T scanner, and data was processed for the velocity distribution patterns. Results: Steady, ascending, and descending distribution patterns were identified. TPG, CSF pressure and stenosis rate were significantly different among three patterns, with significantly higher value in ascending velocity group. Impact: As a noninvasive imaging technique, 4D flow MRI may provide some support from a hemodynamic perspective for screening IIH patients who would benefit from venous manometry and venous stenting.
Importance of Prostatic Fluid on the Apparent Diffusion Coefficient: An IR-Prepared Diffusion-Weighted Investigation of Healthy Prostates
Authors: Skwierawska Dominika , Bickelhaupt Sebastian , Bachl Maximilian , Janka Rolf , Murr Martina , Gloger Felix , Kuder Tristan , Hadler Dominique , Uder Michael , Laun Frederik
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of prostate tissue is generally higher than that of prostate cancer. We hypothesized that the presence of prostatic fluid is partly responsible for the higher ADC. Goal(s): To elucidate the value of this hypothesis with diffusion-T1-relaxation experiments. Approach: Diffusion-weighted data of ten healthy participants’ prostates were sampled with a range of IR times and fitted to a two-compartment model (tissue & fluid). Results: The ADC(TI) dependency was characteristic of the two-compartment model. ADC(TI) increased with TI from 0 to roughly 1,200 ms, then flipped to smaller ADC values and then approached an asymptotic value at large TI. Impact: This study contributes to a better understanding of prostate DWI contrast. The observed ADC(TI) dependence may be exploited for improved DWI-based prostate cancer diagnostics.
Explicit network noise amplification penalty in loss function for k-space interpolation networks through fast backpropagation
Authors: Homolya Istvan , Dawood Peter , Stebani Jannik , Blaimer Martin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: GRAPPA and RAKI optimize purely for data consistency, completely lacking physics-driven or model-based loss terms. Goal(s): Recurrently feed noise amplification information into k-space interpolation networks by penalizing the online computed g-factor. Approach: JAX-implemented GRAPPA and RAKI g-factors were estimated online in each training iteration and incorporated into the optimization as an inherent network noise amplification penalty. Results: Networks including g-factor loss outperformed implementations optimizing only for the data consistency term. Inclusion of g-factor loss terms manifested Tikhonov regularization-like effects on image noise distribution, as revealed by difference maps to the fully sampled gold standard. Impact: Incorporating the penalty of inherent noise amplification into k-space interpolation networks reduces reconstruction noise levels compared to implementation that optimize only for data consistency. G-factor-informed reconstructions manifest Tikhonov regularization-like effects, as revealed by noise distribution on difference maps.
A Positive and Negative Learning based Image Decomposition Network for Phase Unwrapping and Background Removal
Authors: Bao Lijun , Zhao Zijun
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Phase images contain important information useful in many fields. However, the phase data is often wrapped into a specific range, while background or noise signal in imaging scene may bring significant interference. Goal(s): To obtain the exact information, phase images need an accurate processing that includes the unwrapping and the background removal. Approach: In this paper, we propose a positive and negative learning based image decomposition network (PNnet) to accomplish the phase processing by a single network. Results: Experimental results demonstrate that PNnet can achieve excellent performance and efficient generalization, even for complex wrapping and inhomogeneous background. Impact: Except magnitude images, phase data in MRI also contain important information that is useful in many fields and scenarios. This work proposed a SOTA method for phase processing with high accuracy and excellent performance.
Venous vessel size imaging derived from a breath-hold task
Authors: Zhang Ke , Hahn Artur , Triphan Simon , Wielpütz Mark , Ziener Christian , Ladd Mark , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Sedlaczek Oliver , Kurz Felix
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Vessel size imaging, which provides a measure for the vessel radius, is usually performed by injection of contrast agent. Venous vessel radius imaging is also possible by exploiting hypercapnia and hyperoxia. However, these respiratory challenges need external devices such as special masks and monitors. Goal(s): The question would be if we could measure vessel size wihtout contrast agent in a simple setup. Approach: In this study, we employ a breath-hold task that doesn’t need external devices to mimic hypercapnia for the measurement of venous vessel size. Results: Mean venous vessel radii in GM and WM are 11.5±3 and 8.3±2 µm from initial tests. Impact: Mean venous vessel radii during hypercapnia were 7.3±0.3 µm in GM and 6.6±0.5 µm in WM, respectively, from a previous study. Our results are close to these parameters. This study presents the feasibility of VSI using a breath-hold task.
Superior Visualization of Moyamoya Disease Collaterals: A Comparative Analysis of 5.0T vs. 3.0T Time-of-Flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Authors: Zhou Yijun , Zhai Yuanren , Yang YuXin , Chen Shuo , Xue Ke , Wang Dong , Li Mingli , Ni Jun , Zhang Dong , Wang Yining , Feng Feng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Limited studies have scrutinized the capability of MRI in evaluating collateral circulation in Moyamoya Disease (MMD), with 3.0T TOF MRA often lacking the necessary precision. Goal(s): To systematically compare the effectiveness of 5.0T and 3.0T TOF MRA in depicting the complex vascular networks in MMD patients. Approach: A retrospective study on 21 MMD patients was performed using both 5.0T and 3.0T MRI systems, focusing on the visibility of moyamoya vessels, leptomeningeal anastomoses, and basal ganglia signal intensity. Results: The study found that 5.0T MRA significantly outperforms 3.0T in visualizing the fine details of MMD's vascular architecture. Impact: The introduction of 5.0T MRA into clinical practice could revolutionize the imaging landscape for Moyamoya Disease, offering superior diagnostic clarity and aiding in the precise evaluation of cerebrovascular collateral networks, which is critical for surgical planning and patient prognosis.
Cardiac QSM for the Detection of Intra-Myocardial Haemorrhage: an Initial Experience
Authors: Tyler Andrew , Wa Matthew Li Kam , Kaushal Anmol , Bosio Filippo , Masci Pier Giorgio , Roujol Sébastien
Published: November 2024

Motivation: T2*-contrast is not-specific to iron in the heart, with edema having a competing and contradictory effect to iron. Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) may improve identification of intra-myocardial haemorrhage (IMH), through greater specificity to iron. Goal(s): To present our initial experience of using QSM for the assessment of IMH. Approach: 10 patients were scanned with QSM, 5 without myocardial infarcts to perform AHA-segmental analysis and 5 with scar to demonstrate the identification of IMH with QSM. Results: The mean AHA-segment susceptibility was 0.00±0.02ppm and precision 0.05±0.03ppm in the non-infarct-group. Four of the patients with scar had IMH, which was successfully identified with QSM. Impact: Cardiac quantitative susceptibility mapping successfully visualized intra-myocardial haemorrhage in four patients, and found no haemorrhage in one further patient, in agreement with the gold standard T2/T2* techniques.
CMR Imaging-Based Risk Stratification for Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Severe Left Ventricular Dysfunction
Authors: Zhou Di , Wang yining , Lu Minjie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients with severely reduced left ventricular ejection fraction of≤35% face a high risk of sudden cardiac death and heart failure events. Goal(s): We aimed to refine a risk stratification model based on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for DCM patients with LVEF≤35%, and to enhance clinical decision-making and ultimately, patient outcomes. Approach: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1272 DCM patients divided into a development cohort and an internal validation cohort, as well as a prospective validation cohort (n=301).Results: Both LGE and LAVi are independently risk factors for predicting survival in a large cohort of patients with DCM and LVEF≤35%. Impact: Our novel risk stratification may assist in timely interventions such as implantation of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, heart transplantation, implementation of left ventricular assist devices, or referral for HF specialty care, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for DCM patients with LVEF≤35%.
Detection and Quantification of Acute Ischemic Lesions using Deep Learning-Based Super-resolution Portable Low-Field-Strength MRI
Authors: Bian Yueyan , Wang Long , Li Jin , Yang Xiaoxu , Wang Erling , Li Yingying , Zhang Chen , Xiang Lei , Yang Qi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The diagnostic performance of portable low-field-strength MRI (LF-MRI) is constrained by low spatial-resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. Goal(s): To evaluate the performance in detecting and quantifying ischemic lesions among SynthMRI, LF-MRI and real high-field-strength MRI (HF-MRI). Approach: We created a deep learning-based model to generate the synthetic super-resolution (3T) MRI (SynthMRI) based on LF-MRI (0.23T). We evaluated the performance in detecting and quantifying ischemic lesions among SynthMRI, LF-MRI and HF-MRI. Results: SynthMRI demonstrated high sensitivity in detecting the number and locations of ischemic lesions. Moreover, SynthMRI exhibited strong correlations with HF-MRI in the quantitative assessment of ischemic lesions, and significantly higher than portable LF-MRI. Impact: Synthetic super-resolution MRI images overcome the limitations of low spatial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio in portable low-field-strength MRI. It has the potential to replace high-field-strength MRI images in the neuroimaging of AIS, enabling portable low-field-strength MRI examinations with comparable performance.
Enhancing Deep Learning-Based Liver Vessel Segmentation on MRI with Image Translation Techniques
Authors: Zhang Yanbo , Bilgin Ali , Kafali Sevgi , Toner Brian , Delgado Timo , Ahanonu Eze , Karakay Deniz , Zhou Wenqi , Mollus Sabina , Kannengießer Stephan , Deshpande Vibhas , Grbic Sasa , Altbach Maria , Wu Holden
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To improve liver vessel segmentation on MRI under annotation constraints.Goal(s): Apply an advanced unpaired image translation technique, SynDiff, to create synthetic MR images from CT data.Approach: By incorporating vessel masks in the translation process, the optimized SynDiff models generated synthetic images that facilitated more effective pretraining of segmentation models.Results: Validated across multiple pretraining settings, the refined SynDiff approach surpassed the standard nnU-Net and other pretraining-based methods, substantially improving liver vessel segmentation performance.Impact: This study remarkably advances liver vessel segmentation on MRI, demonstrating that synthetic data can effectively augment limited datasets, leading to improved model performance. It has great potential for broader applications in medical image analysis.
A Novel 8-Channel 31P/1H DODO Transceiver Array for Human Brain Imaging and Performance Comparison with 31P/1H TEM Volume Coil at 7T
Authors: Li Xin , Waks Matt , Wiesner Hannes , Soon Soo Han , Zhang Xiaoliang , Zhu Xiao-Hong , Chen Wei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: 31P MRSI provides a valuable tool for metabolic imaging of human brain, and is crucial for studying neuroenergetics and neurological diseases, however, faces the low SNR challenge. Goal(s): To construct a dual-tuned 8-channel 31P/1H transceiver array head coil with excellent performance for both proton structural MRI and 31P MRSI at 7T. Approach: We constructed an 8-ch 31P/1H transceiver array coil based on the novel double tuned and double matched (DODO) coil element, and compared its performance with the 31P/1H TEM volume coil. Results: The 8-ch 31P/1H transceiver array coil shows significantly higher performance compared to 31P/1H TEM volume coil. Impact: We developed an 8-ch 31P/1H transceiver array coil with excellent performance based on the DODO coil design. This technology has broad applications for in vivo human brain 31P MRSI studies and can be adapted to other multinuclear array coil designs.
The advantage of conventional loop coils without distributed capacitors – elongation for improved performance in 7T MRI
Authors: Costa Giovanni , Paulides Maarten , Zivkovic Irena
Published: November 2024

Motivation: At Ultra-High-Field, non-uniform currents have the potential to boost efficiency of loop coils at depth. However, possible advantages of non-uniform current naturally arising from short wavelength at Ultra-High-Field have not been investigated yet. Goal(s): To characterize the impact of non-uniform currents on SAR efficiency for different coil geometries and coil orientations relative to the main magnetic field, and evaluate the feasibility of using such coilsApproach: Analysis was performed using simulations and experimentsResults: A 62x280mm elongated loop provided higher SAR efficiency than a conventional loop, or a dipole, at depth, with flexibility. low coupling, similar SNR and transmit efficiency than a dipole. Impact: An elongated design of loops provided higher performance than conventional loops and dipoles in terms of SAR efficiency at depth, with flexibility, and low coupling. Results in this work provide a new avenue to explore in flexible coil design.
Evaluation of Peritoneal Fluid Flow in Response to Respiratory Motion Using MRI-Based CFD
Authors: Gonzalez-Pereira Juan , Shahid Labib , Barroilhet Lisa , Kreeger Pamela , Roldan-Alzate Alejandro
Published: November 2024

Motivation: High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is hypothesized to initiate at fallopian tubes and ovaries, and then spreads by detaching and floating through the peritoneal fluid to the upper abdomen. Goal(s): Create a framework that could potentially assess HGSOC cell movement and deposition in the peritoneal cavity using MRI-based computational fluid dynamics. Approach: Under the assumption that ovarian cancer cells are already prevalent in peritoneal fluid, ovarian cancer cell displacement can be analyzed using MRI-based CFD. Results: Velocity maps and streamlines and WSS maps were created using CFD simulation results to predict cells transport to the lower peritoneum and diaphragm. Impact: MRI-based CFD allows temporal and volumetric analysis of the peritoneal cavity and provides insight in ovarian cancer cell spread due to peritoneal fluid flow. Velocities and wall shear stress analysis can be used to identify stagnation points for cell deposition.
The value of amide proton transfer imaging in the diagnosis of malignant and benign urinary bladder lesions: comparison with DWI
Authors: Li Jinglu , Xu Yun , Xiang Yongshen , Wu Peng , Shen Aijun , Wang Peijun , Wang Fang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Conventional MRI has certain limitations in distinguishing between malignant and benign urinary bladder (UB) lesions. Goal(s): Compare the diagnostic value of Amide proton transfer (APT) imaging with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). Approach: Participants with confirmed UB lesions underwent preoperative multiparametric MRI. The APT signal intensity (represented by asymmetric magnetization transfer ratio, MTRasym), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were compared between malignant and benign UB lesions, and their diagnostic performance was evaluated with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The MTRasym value was significantly better in differentiating urothelial carcinoma from benign UB lesions than the ADC value. Impact: Conventional MRI exhibits limitations in accurately distinguishing between malignant and benign urinary bladder (UB) lesions. Amide Proton Transfer (APT) imaging shows promise in effectively discriminating between malignant and benign UB lesions, surpassing the performance of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI).
Fibroglandular tissue segmentation and background parenchymal enhancement quantification in breast MRI using an anatomy-aware loss function
Authors: Yan Ran , Zheng Haoxin , Hung Alex , Yu Tiffany , Lee-Felker Stephanie , Sung Kyunghyun
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Fully automatic segmentation of fibroglandular tissue (FGT) and background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) quantification methods with high generalizability for different FGT levels are still lacking. Goal(s): We aimed to improve the segmentation accuracy and generalizability across various FGT levels that accurately quantify FGT density and BPE. Approach: A novel anatomy-aware loss function based on the variations in FGT level was applied in a fully automatic segmentation model training on breast MRIs. Results: The accuracy of breast tissue segmentation, FGT density estimation, and BPE quantification were improved at various FGT levels. Impact: The anatomy-aware loss function can help improve the generalization of the breast tissue segmentation model on patients with different breast densities, thereby enabling the model to be more widely used in fibroglandular tissue density estimation and background parenchymal enhancement quantification.
The relationship of intracellular sodium fraction and pharmacokinetics in breast cancer
Authors: Kaggie Joshua , Arponen Otso , McLean Mary , Nanaa Muzna , Manavaki Roido , Baxter Gabrielle , Gill Andrew , Birchall Jonathan , Riemer Frank , Kennerley Aneurin , Woitek Ramona , Brackenbury William , Gilbert Fiona
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Breast cancer MRI has high sensitivity but has an unmet need for increased specificity. Sodium MRI has the potential to improve tumor characterisation and thus treatments. Goal(s): To determine whether there is a relationship between tissue permeability by correlating intracellular sodium fraction with pharmacokinetic parameters. Approach: Conventional DCE-MRI parameters were acquired as well as intracellular sodium fraction maps (= inversion recovery sodium / total sodium concentration) in 17 breast cancer lesions (grade 1:n=3; grade 2: n=9; grade 3:n=7). Results: The fraction of intracellular sodium to total sodium concentration had significant correlations (p-values <0.11) with Ktrans and kep, and with cancer grade. Impact: Breast cancer imaging has an unmet need to differentiate ductal carcinoma from benign and invasive lesions. Sodium MRI can provide intra- and extra-cellular sodium measurements, which may improve lesion differentiation by using endogenous contrast.
Histogram Analysis of Hepatobiliary Contrast Uptake in Liver Metastases from Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma for Prognosis Assessment
Authors: Kawai Nobuyuki , Noda Yoshifumi , Kaga Tetsuro , Takai Yukiko , Ito Akio , Asano Masashi , Kajita Kimihiro , Matsuo Masayuki
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Liver metastases with contrast uptake on hepatobiliary phase images in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) were related to poor prognosis. Prior study focused on visual assessment of the tumor, however, reliable quantitativeness is necessary. Goal(s): To evaluate the relationship between the gadoxetic acid uptake in liver metastases and overall survival (OS) in patients with PDAC using histogram analysis. Approach: The best quantitative parameter was analyzed comparable with visual assessment using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Patients with the entropy of >5.422 in the greatest liver metastasis exhibited lower OS rates than those with ≤5.422 (mean, 9.6 months vs 37.7 months). Impact: Liver metastases with contrast uptake on hepatobiliary phase images were related to poor prognosis. Entropy on histogram features in the greatest liver metastasis can be a potential quantitative imaging biomarker to predict overall survival in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
The Preliminary Application of Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping in the T Staging of Rectal Cancer
Authors: Zhang Haini , Meng Yankai , Han Lu , Cheng Yongjun
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The T staging of rectal cancer mainly relies on high-resolution T2-weighted MRI sequences. However, there are cases of both over-staging and under-staging. Goal(s): To investigate the preliminary application value of quantitative susceptibility mapping in the T staging of rectal cancer. Approach: In addition to the conventional scanning sequences, horizontal axial T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) and QSM sequences were acquired. The tumor segmentation was done with reference to T2WI images at the QSM-weighted image. The magnetic susceptibility histogram data of tumor tissues were calculated with FireVoxel build 394D software. Results: The differences of magnetic susceptibility histogram parameters in different T-stage rectal cancer were statistically significant. Impact: Quantitative susceptibility histogram shows promise in aiding the T staging of rectal cancer.
Feasibility of T2 mapping for the detection of myocardial injury in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Yang Shujuan , Zhao Shihua
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The relationship between T2 value and myocardial injury has not been well demonstrated. Goal(s): To explore the association between T2 value and myocardial injury in HCM patients. Approach: 50 patients with HCM were prospectively recruited. Hs-cTnI was obtained as a marker of myocardial injury (>0.016ng/mL). ConSept T2 were measured from the maximal value of 16 segments and the middle septum. Results: The hs-cTnI elevated group had higher T2 global, ConSept T2, T2 max(P<0.05) than the normal hs-cTnI group. The ConSept T2 value were moderately correlated with hs-cTnI(r=0.52, P<0.001). In logistic regression analysis, ConSept T2 value was significantly associated with elevated hs-cTnI(P<0.01)Impact: This study provided in-vivo evidence by CMR for the ongoing myocardial injury in HCM.
Cardiovascular MR Multitasking T1-T2 Joint Mapping in Healthy Subjects and Cardiomyopathy Patients on both 1.5T and 3T
Authors: Mao Xianglun , Lee Hsu-Lei , Eyre Katerina , Li Debiao , Christodoulou Anthony , Friedrich Matthias , Salerno Michael , Janich Martin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: CMR Multitasking has shown promise for non-ECG and free-breathing myocardial T1/T2 mapping in the heart, primarily on a single vendor 3T, but 2D T1-T2 CMR Multitasking has not yet been shown for different vendors (e.g., GE) and field strengths (e.g., 1.5T). Goal(s): To extend 2D T1-T2 CMR Multitasking to 1.5T and 3.0T GE MR systems. Approach: We implemented a 2D T1-T2 CMR Multitasking sequence on GE MR systems and evaluated its performance in healthy volunteers and patients at two sites. Results: 2D T1-T2 CMR Multitasking generated T1 and T2 maps with image quality comparable to the reference measurements. Impact: 2D T1-T2 CMR Multitasking provides an efficient and subject friendly (free-breathing, non-ECG) option for quantitative CMR assessment across sites and vendors.
Free-breathing 3D cardiac extracellular volume (ECV) mapping using a linear tangent space alignment (LTSA) model
Authors: Lee Wonil , Han Paul , Marin Thibault , Mounime Ismael , Eslahi Samira , Djebra Yanis , Chi Didi , Fakhri Georges , Ma Chao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Extracellular volume (ECV) is an emerging biomarker for diffuse fibrosis, which is known to be particularly challenging to detect. Existing methods are limited to single-slice acquisition with or without breath-hold. Goal(s): To develop a new method for free-breathing, 3D ECV mapping of the whole heart. Approach: 3D cardiac T1 mapping was performed before and after contrast agent injection using a free-breathing, ECG-gated IR-FLASH sequence followed by a linear tangent space alignment model-based image reconstruction. Results: The estimated ECV values from the proposed method were comparable to those from the reference MOLLI method. Impact: The proposed method allows for free-breathing, 3D ECV mapping of the whole heart in a practically feasible imaging time. The proposed method is potentially useful ECV quantitation in healthy and diseased populations with diffuse fibrosis.
Diagnosing LGE-negative hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with T1 mapping and feature tracking: a preliminary study
Authors: Li Shan , Xing yan , qin kexin , Wei Xiaocheng , Tian Hongzhe , Ren Huipeng , Wang Huan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The presence of myocardial fibrosis in HCM has significant prognostic power in the prediction of severe cardiac complications in HCM. Goal(s): To compare native T1、ECV and myocardial strain parameters in patients with LGE-negative HCM with healthy participants to evaluate for the presence of subtle myocardial fibrosis and regional myocardial function in HCM. Approach: Seventeen patients with LGE-negative HCM and twenty-eight healthy participants were underwent the MRI scan and the quantitative parameters were analyzed. Results: Overall native T1 and ECV values were increased in HCM patients ; GLS, GRS, and GCS were all decreased in HCM patients with LGE negative. Impact: The cardiac magnetic resonance T1 mapping technique combined with the feature tracking technique can reflect subtle myocardial fibrosis, myocardial deformation, and impaired myocardial systolic function earlier in HCM patients from LGE negative patients.
Myocardial cine T1 mapping using dynamic multiple trigger delay acquisition
Authors: Shiina Isao , Nagao Michinobu , Yoneyama Masami , Hamano Hiroshi , Kwon Jihun , Goto Yasuhiro , Hamatani Yutaka , Kodaira Kazuo , Ogawa Takumi , Kato Mana , Morita Yasuyuki , Sakai Shuji
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Myocardial T1-mapping is a widely used quantitative method to evaluate the characteristics of myocardium. Commonly, the cardiac trigger delay (TD) during the diastolic phase depends on the settings of the system. However, because myocardial characteristics can affect both diastole and systole, acquiring T1 mapping at various cardiac phases may have clinical significance. Goal(s): To acquire cardiac T1 mapping at various cardiac phases in one scan. Approach: Dynamic trigger delayResults: The proposed technique was successfully implemented. Application of image registration technique has improved the accuracy of T1 value quanitification. Impact: CINE T1 mapping can acquire quantitative mapping of several different cardiac phases simultaneously in one scan; it may be useful for more detailed diagnosis of myocardial properties.
Long-T2 Suppressed ZTE with subspace reconstruction for bone imaging
Authors: Catargiu Teodora , Pinna Oliver , Wood Tobias
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Recent work has shown that achieving CT-like contrast highlighting bone can be obtained either indirectly through contrast inversion or directly through long-T2 suppression. While direct methods offer advantages, existing techniques are inefficient, resulting in long scan times. Goal(s): To create an efficient long-T2 suppressed bone imaging MR scan. Approach: We combined inversion recovery long-T2 suppression in a Zero Echo-Time sequence with subspace reconstruction to allow continuous data collection during the scan, eliminating dead time and improving efficiency. Results: A two minute silent scan that produces bright bone and suppressed soft tissuesImpact: We have created a fast positive contrast bone MRI scan that has potential as an alternative to CT
Synthetic MRI with quantitative mapping in evaluating the osteonecrosis of femoral head
Authors: Liu Chao , Liu Shaowei , Dou Weiqiang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Both qualitative and quantitative diagnosis of ONFH can be achieved through Synthetic MRI. Goal(s): To investigate the value of Synthetic MRI in evaluating the osteonecrosis of femoral head(ONFH). Approach: 336 hips in 168 cases of clinically diagnosed patients with ONFH were recruited and measured with T1, T2 and PD mapping derived by Synthetic MRI, 70 hips were normal as controls and 256 were ONFH. Results: T1 , T2 and PD values showed significantly different values between ONFH and normal hip(all P<0.001). .With further ROC analysis, the diagnostic efficacy of T1 in the necrosis region and edema region was better than T2 and PD. Impact: MRI images are important for clinical diagnosis of ONFH, while conventional MRI is qualitative diagnosis, quantitative diagnosis of ONFH is not yet available, therefore, Synthetic MRI may be considered an effective quantitative method in differentiating ONFH from normal femoral.
Multi-B-Values-Fitting RESOLVE DWI in Evaluation of Disease Activity and Curative Effect of Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA)
Authors: Chen Xianyuan , Yang Shengsheng , Lin Mingui , Gao Fei , Ma Mingping , Yu Shun , Song Yang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Methods to quantitatively assess disease activity and efficacy of axSpA are still being explored. Goal(s): To find a reliable quantitative indicator for evaluating disease activity and curative effect of axSpA, using multi-b-values-fitting RESOLVE DWI. Approach: By comparing the ADC values calculated by fitting different b values between different groups, a relatively reliable b-values-fitting sequence was obtained, further evaluating curative effect of the treatment group in different cycles. Results: Multi-b-values-fitting (b=50,500,700s/mm2) RESOLVE DWI has a certain advantage in evaluating disease activity and efficacy of axSpA, but the effect of short-term review (3 weeks or less) is unsatisfactory. Impact: Multi-b-Values-Fitting RESOLVE DWI can differentiate the severity of axSpA disease activity more intuitively, by measuring the ADC values of bone marrow edema of sacroiliac joints, providing a new idea for clinical search for more objective and accurate quantitative parameters.
Establishment and validation of a Nomogram Clinical prediction model for osteoporosis based on magnetic resonance Q-Dixon and MT techniques
Authors: qiuju fan , yu wang shao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: More research has confirmed the important role of new MRI techniques in early screening and efficacy evaluation of osteoporosis. Goal(s): The purpose of this study is to construct a nomogram clinical prediction model for predicting osteoporosis based on Q-Dixon、MT technology and clinical dataApproach: logistic regression analysis confirmed that four risk factors (gender, age, FF value, MTR value) were significant independent predictors of osteoporosis, and the calibration curve of the nomogram had good reliability in evaluating osteoporosis in training and validation cohortsResults: The Nomogram model has more advantages in predicting osteoporosis than the FF model and MTR modelImpact: The clinical prediction model based on gender, age, FF value, and MT value nomogram has good universality and clinical benefits, is easy to promote, and helps to better screen for osteoporosis in the general elderly population, achieve early detection.
Validity of Ultrashort Echo Time MRI-based Finite Element Analysis of Human Femur Compared to Mechanical Testing
Authors: Jaroszynski Kathryn , Kamona Nada , Jones Brandon , Konar Sandhya , Clark Makayla , Ispiryan Michael , Hast Michael , Shetye Snehal , Querido William , Pleshko Nancy , Rajapakse Chamith
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Hip fractures pose a substantial health concern commonly associated with osteoporosis. Bone mineral density from Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the standard-of-care test for assessment of osteoporosis and fracture risk, yet many who sustain fragility fractures are above the diagnosis threshold. Goal(s): The objective of this study was to conduct a preliminary investigation into the validity of MRI Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for predicting bone strength. Approach: Ultrashort Echo Time MRI was used on cadaveric human femur sections and FEA was performed. Results: The stiffness derived from UTE FEA showed a strong correlation with stiffness derived from mechanical testing. Impact: This study compared UTE-based Finite Element Analysis to mechanical testing and found that there was a significant correlation between computational and experimental values. This indicates the potential for UTE MRI to be used in the clinical evaluation of bone strength.
Measuring Quadrupolar Splittings in Human Lower Leg and Forearm Muscle after Deuterium Oxide Loading
Authors: Damion Robin , Cocking Daniel , Brook Matthew , Auer Dorothee , Bowtell Richard
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Although it is known that deuterium (2H) quadrupolar splittings arise in muscle, it is not clear to what extent they can be used to characterise tissues. Goal(s): To investigate quadrupolar splittings by measuring angular dependence and double-quantum-filtered signals, and to determine whether splittings were related to specific muscles. Approach: Deuterium oxide loading was used to increase the 2H signals. The angular dependence of the splitting was measured in the forearm and DQF spectra were acquired on forearm and lower leg muscles. Results: Evidence was obtained for quadrupolar splittings which were shown to depend on angle and muscle group, and exhibited DQF spectra. Impact: Deuterium quadrupolar splittings have the potential to characterise muscle fibres in vivo. Understanding the origin of the splittings, and factors affecting their magnitude, could lead to new or complementary methods in musculoskeletal or physiological investigations.
Stimulated phase contrast motor unit MRI to assess recovery of fatigued muscle as a novel therapeutic response biomarker
Authors: Elameer Mathew , Birkbeck Matthew , Heskamp Linda , Newman Jane , Stefanetti Renae , Barrow Isabel , Gorman Gráinne , Schofield Ian , Hall Julie , Blamire Andrew , Whittaker Roger
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Current biomarkers for serial functional muscle assessments (eg., for therapeutic response assessment) are limited by sensitivity, spatial resolution, and coverage. Goal(s): We aimed to utilise the high spatial resolution offered by recently developed phase contrast motor unit MRI (PC-MUMRI) techniques to identify potential biomarkers. Approach: We prospectively trialled a novel PC-MUMRI fatigue and recovery paradigm before and after a 12-week exercise intervention in seven participants with genetic mitochondrial disorders. Results: Time-to-half-maximum of PC-MUMRI recovery reduced from a mean of 254 (+/- 109) seconds to 137 (+/- 41) seconds following the intervention. This was not statistically significant (p = 0.074). Impact: We have developed and tested a novel therapeutic response biomarker for muscle-based intervention based on measuring recovery of stimulated muscle twitch velocities following fatigue. This may address problems with spatial resolution, sensitivity, or coverage associated with previously reported biomarkers.
Making RF coils MR-invisible by additive manufacturing using magnetically filled polymer
Authors: Weiger Markus , Overweg Johan , Viol Amelie , Singenberger Lauro , Schmid Thomas , Baadsvik Emily , Pruessmann Klaas
Published: November 2024

Motivation: In MRI of tissues with short T2, materials of RF coils may be detected and can cause background artefacts. Current solutions to this problem either compromise sequence performance or impose restrictions on coil design. Goal(s): Making RF coils MR-invisible. Approach: The material used for constructing the coil housing is filled with ferrimagnetic material, leading to effective signal spoiling. Coil formers are created by additive manufacturing using custom filaments made from magnetite-filled polymer. Results: Unwanted signals from the RF coil are eliminated by using coil formers made from magnetically filled polymer. Hence, background-free short-T2 imaging is enabled. Impact: RF coils made MR-invisible by using magnetically-filled materials simplify coil design and manufacturing, and improve the performance of MRI of tissues with short T2, such as bone, tendon, lung, or myelin.
Designs of dielectric pad to improve B1 homogeneity and reduce SAR for the fetal imaging at 3T
Authors: Li Ruixin , Yang Qing X. , Xin Xuegang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Performing MRI on fetus at 3T can be clinically valuable but often encounters difficulties in transmit field inhomogeneity and SAR increase. Goal(s): Determine dominant designing factors for optimal dielectric pad configurations to improve B1 homogeneity and reduce SAR for fetus imaging at 3T. Approach: B1 field distributions of transmit body coil with dielectric pads of various designs in different positions around a pregnant woman model were evaluated using computer simulations. Results: The placement of dielectric pad could significantly improve B1 field homogeneity (up to 84%) in the fetus brain. A generalizable routine can be developed for optimization of B1 shimming using dielectric pads. Impact: Passive RF shimming with HPM is a viable ancillary approach for reduction of transmit field inhomogeneity artifacts for body imaging in high field MRI (≥3T), which affect the quality and safety of fetal MRI at 3T.
A Birdcage Volume Transmit coil and 8 Channel Receive Array for Marmoset Brain Imaging at 7T
Authors: Yazdanbakhsh Pedram , Couch Marcus , Gacoin Maeva , Cook Tyler , Rudko David , Clery Justine
Published: November 2024

Motivation: 7T promises a high SNR for high-resolution imaging of the small marmoset brain, which requires a custom RF coil. Goal(s): To develop a robust marmoset coil for 7T with an efficient volume transmit and receive array with a very high density and high filling factor. Approach: The coil was constructed, consisting of a volume transmit coil and receive array of 8 receive-only loops. The coil was tested with a phantom and a single anesthetized marmoset. Results: The transmit coil along with the optimized receive array for imaging the whole marmoset brain has been shown to produce images of high resolution and high SNR. Impact: A shielded, band-pass birdcage transmit coil was designed and fabricated for marmoset brain imaging at 7T. An 8-channel receive array consisting of eight overlapped loops covering the whole brain of the marmoset was also built and applied for signal reception.
Decreased water exchange rate across blood-brain barrier within 14 days after cardiac arrest
Authors: Li Yingying , Shao Rui , Jia Xuejia , Wang Tao , Shao Xingfeng , Zhang Chen , Jia Xiuqin , Wang Danny J.J. , Tang Ziren , Yang Qi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The alteration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and cerebral perfusion in the short period of time after cardiac arrest remains unclear. Goal(s): To determine the changes of BBB and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in patients with cardiac arrest. Approach: Diffusion prepared pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling was used to estimate the water exchange rate across the BBB (kw) and CBF in 21 cardiac arrest patients and 21 matched healthy controls. Results: The kw was significantly decreased in cardiac arrest patients compared to healthy controls, whereas CBF was not significantly different. Reduced kw was associated with neurologic dysfunction in surviving patients after cardiac arrest. Impact: This study demonstrated that the kw decreased within 14 days after cardiac arrest, suggesting that BBB dysfunction occurred in the short term after cardiac arrest, which will help clarify the pathophysiological changes in the brain after cardiac arrest.
Quantitative Evaluation of Postoperative Status after Meniscal Repair Using Synthetic Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Zhang Lingtao , Mai Wenfeng , Zhang Dong , Liu Weiyin , Luo Liangping , Shi Changzheng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Post-surgical imaging evaluation of the meniscus is essential for clinicians to formulate personalized rehabilitation programs. Goal(s): SyMRI can simultaneously quantify the T1, T2 relaxation time and PD of tissues, providing an objective method to reflect meniscus change. Approach: The conventional MRI and SyMRI were performed before surgery, at 6 months, and 1 year after a surgery of meniscus repair, along with the Lysholm scores, to evaluate the postoperative recovery status. Results: Compared with the conventional MRI, T2 values presented a significant correlation with Lysholm scores and enabled to reflect follow-up postoperative function status of the meniscus. Impact: The post-surgery abnormal meniscus signals fail to accurately distinguish the recurrent meniscus tears from postoperative changes during recovery period using conventional MRI. SyMRI can simultaneously provide contrast weighted MRI and quantification, giving an objective assessment of meniscus changes.
Dynamic, Regularized, Adaptive Cluster Optimization (DRACO) for Free-breathing Cardiac Cine MRI in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Ming Zhengyang , Pogosyan Arutyun , Dong Xinyu , Finn J. Paul , Christodoulou Anthony , Ruan Dan , Nguyen Kim-Lien
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Irregular cardiac motion can degrade image quality and preclude the use of conventional segmented cine MRI for quantitative evaluation of cardiac function. And it can be difficult for some patients to do multiple breath holds. Goal(s): To evaluate a cluster-based algorithm and reconstruction approach for cine MRI in patients with atrial fibrillation under free-breathing condition. Approach: Ten atrial fibrillation patients were scanned under breath-held and free-breathing conditions. Image quality, SNR, CNR, and edge sharpness were assessed. Results: No significant difference in image quality scores, SNR, CNR, and edge sharpness were found for images obtained under breath-held and free-breathing conditions. Impact: Adaptive cluster-based motion binning with temporal total variation reconstruction is effective at handling irregular cardiac motion and enables high quality, free-breathing cine MRI in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Preoperative Left Atrial Strain Predicts Outcome in Patients with Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy after Myectomy
Authors: Yang Shujuan , Zhao Shihua
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The association of preoperative LA strain assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)-FT with the late outcome of HOCM patients after myectomy remains unknown. Goal(s): To evaluate the prognostic value of preoperative LA strain in HOCM following myectomy. Approach: In this retrospective, single-center study, 802 adult patients with HOCM after myectomy were included, who underwent preoperative CMR with clinical outcome follow-up. Results: LA reservoir strain ≤ 22.9% was independently associated with postoperative adverse outcomes. Incorporating LA reservoir strain, the performance of the HCM Risk-SCD score improved for SCD prediction (C-statistic: from 0.62 to 0.69; log-likelihood: from -110.31 to -108.27, P=.04). Impact: HOCM patients with reduced preoperative LA reservoir strain tend to have poor postoperative outcomes, so reinforced follow-ups may be required in those patients.
Cardiac function and strain analysis at 7T in comparison to 3T
Authors: Jung Bernd , Bonanno Gabriele , Schmitter Sebastian , Guensch Dominik , Fischer Kady
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To investigate whether a single set of shim values can provide reliable image quality for cardiac MRI at 7T. Goal(s): To establish an efficient workflow for cardiac cine imaging at 7T. Approach: Short-axis and long-axis views were acquired in five subjects with different spatial resolution at 3T and 7T. Volumetric parameters and peak global longitudinal and circumferential strain were assessed for left and right ventricle. Results: No significant differences of volume parameters, field strength or spatial resolution were found. A single B1 shim set for the whole examination providing reliable image quality and quantification results constitute an essential step towards clinical cardiac imaging. Impact: An efficient workflow and reliable image quality of cine images for the assessment of cardiac volumes and strain at 7 Tesla could be realized with results in close agreement to 3T – an essential step towards clinical routine cardiac examinations.
Effects of blood uric acid levels and omega-6/omega-3 on left heart function: a CMR feature tracking analysis
Authors: Lyu Jianbo , Chen Zhang , Bai Miaomiao , Qu Xiaofeng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Hyperuricemia and abnormal ω-6/ω-3 values contribute to cardiac damage, but the specific mechanisms remain unclear. Goal(s): To explore the effects of uric acid and ω-6/ω-3 values on left heart function using cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking. Approach: We utilized the TrueFISP cine sequence, CVI42 software, and univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses to identify relationships of uric acid and ω-6/ω-3 values with left heart function. Results: High ω6/ω3 values may exacerbate left ventricular dysfunction in patients with hyperuricemia. Impact: Our findings concerning the effects of uric acid and ω-6/ω-3 values on left heart function will help to improve the clinical management and treatment of patients with hyperuricemia.
Biventricular intraventricular mechanical dyssynchrony and electronical dyssynchrony in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Li Wen , Zhang Xian-chang , Qian Yu-ling , Gu Qing , Wetzl Jens , An Jing , He Jian-guo
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The ability of layer-specific intraventricular mechanical dyssynchrony (M-dys) to predict prognosis in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has not been investigated. Goal(s): To illustrate the existence and prognostic values of layer-specific intraventricular M-dys and its associations with electronical dyssynchrony in PAH. Approach: The biventricular volumetric and layer-specific intraventricular M-dys were analyzed by calculating strain and strain rate based on cine cardiac magnetic resonance images. Results: The layer-specific intraventricular M-dys had varying impacts on biventricular functions in PAH. Impact: This study was novel in reporting that the layer-specific intraventricular M-dys had various distribution patterns in both ventricles in patients with PAH.
Preliminary assessment of 3D-APTWI combined with DWI in differentiating benign and malignant bone and soft tissue tumors
Authors: Li Ying , Ren Cuiping , Zhang Wenhua , Cheng Jingliang , Zheng Dandan , Lin Liangjie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Clinical applications of APTWI for differentiating benign and malignant bone and soft tissue tumors are scarce. Goal(s): This work investigated and evaluated the ability of APT and DWI parameters in distinguishing benign from malignant bone and soft tissue tumors. Approach: MTRasym and ADC values of ninety-six patients in benign and malignant lesions were compared using either the independent samples t-test or Mann-Whitney U test. The ROC curve was used to assess the diagnostic performance in differentiation between benign and malignant tumors. Results: APTWI combined with DWI showed a significantly improved differentiation between benign and malignant tumors. Impact: The combination of APTWI and DWI offers valuable insights into changes in cellular proteins and peptides. When MTRasymmax is combined with ADCmin, it yields superior diagnostic performance for distinguishing between malignant and benign bone and soft tissue tumors.