bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of T1/T2/T1ρ MR Multitasking of Arm Muscle for Imaging Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Dausch Matthew , Ma Sen , Mao Xianglun , Lee Hsu-Lei , Xie Yibin , Li Debiao , Diaz Frank , Christodoulou Anthony
Published: August 2024

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative motor disorder that has a need for imaging methods for longitudinal studies. T1/T2/T1ρ MR multitasking is a multiparametric, quantitative, imaging method that shows promise in being a viable tool for this purpose. In this study, we tested the feasibility of a motion weighting modified T1/T2/T1ρ MR multitasking in the arm muscles, evaluating the accuracy and precision of quantitative measurements.
New high-performance whole-body gradients to clarify Intravoxel incoherent motion DWI based multi-parametric MRI of prostate: Initial results
Authors: Pettigrew Roderic I , Muthupillai Raja , Buko Erick , Martin Michaela , Fischer Andre
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate the feasibility of obtaining high b-value (b > 2400 s/mm2) DWI images of the prostate obtained with short echo times (TE ~ 50 ms) on a prototype high-performance whole-body gradient system (Gmax = 200 mT/m, and SRmax = 200 T/m/s). Preliminary results from volunteers suggest that the apparent differences in the perfusion fraction metric of the IVIM model between the transition and peripheral zones of the prostate partly can be substantially diminished by choosing a shorter TE using high-performance gradients.
Apparent diffusion coefficient of the lumbar intervertebral disc as a quantitative indicator of disease severity and treatment effectiveness
Authors: Sakamoto Daiki , Li Xinnan , Hamaguchi Hiroyuki , Yamada Katsuhisa , sudo Hideki , Tha Khin Khin
Published: August 2024

This prospective study aimed to evaluate the role of T1ρ, T2*, and ADC – the quantitative MRI indices, in determining the severity of intervertebral disc degeneration and treatment effectiveness. All three indices decreased with increasing Pfirmman grade, which determines the severity, suggestive of their potential as indicators of disease severity. The mean ADC of the degenerated disc increased significantly after surgery, suggesting its potential as a treatment effectiveness indicator.
PDFF and R2* Reconstruction Error Mapping using Cramér-Rao Lower Bounds for Quality Assessment In-Vivo
Authors: Bagur Alexandre Triay , Aljabar Paul , Robson Matthew , Brady Michael , Bulte Daniel
Published: August 2024

Image analysts would welcome a measure of proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and R2* mapping error for image quality assessment in-vivo. This work adopts prior methodology using Cramér-Rao lower bound formulation and applies it to PDFF and R2* precision mapping in-vivo. The method is demonstrated in a software phantom and on one subject with fatty liver. The calculated maps agree with the ground truth and are informative in regions where the reconstruction signal model holds. The method should be extended to calculation of PDFF error maps.
Addressing Bias and Precision in Low SNR Chemical Shift Encoded MRI Proton Density Fat Fraction Estimation using a Deep Learning Reconstruction
Authors: Roberts Nathan , Panagiotopoulos Nikolaos , Cashen Ty , Tamada Daiki , Hernando Diego , Guidon Arnaud , Reeder Scott
Published: August 2024

Low bias and high precision are important for accurate diagnosis, staging, and treatment monitoring of chronic liver disease using chemical shift-encoded (CSE)-MRI. However, CSE-MRI proton density fat fraction (PDFF) measurements are often biased by an asymmetric noise distribution present in PDFF maps acquired with low/moderate signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). This work investigates the use of deep learning de-noising to mitigate this bias in phantoms and in vivo. Results demonstrate that deep learning reconstruction removes or reduces noise-related PDFF estimation bias while maintaining the expected noise distribution characteristic of PDFF.
Effectiveness and Reliability Assessment on Head Motion Capturing and Correction (MoCAP)
Authors: Gu Zhuoyang , Guo Lianghu , Yang Qing , Cai Xinyi , Tao Tianli , He Sifan , Jiang Hua , Tang Haifeng , Wang Qian , Zong Xiaopeng , Shen Dinggang , He Qiang , Zhang Han
Published: August 2024

Head motion monitoring and compensation during MRI is essential to imaging quality and success rates of acquisition. MoCAP is a novel real-time head motion monitoring and correction technique utilizing structured light to perform prospective motion correction by adjusting MR gradient. We perform effectiveness and reliability assessment on MoCAP in structural and functional MRI. MoCAP can significantly improve quality of the two modalities, reducing motion artifacts and enhancing validity and reliability of post-processing results. MoCAP is promising in the MRI field for special populations like children and patients with difficulty in keeping still during scan.
Machine Learning Stratification of Liver Stiffness using T2-weighted MRI Radiomic Data: A Multi-Site Study
Authors: Li Hailong , Chen Ziang , Qian Jinzhao , Pan Wen , Reeder Scott , Harris David , Masch William , Alsam Anum , Shanbhogue Krishna , Bernieh Anas , Ranganathan Sarangarajan , Parikh Nehal , Dillman Jonathan , He Lili
Published: August 2024

MR elastography (MRE) offers a non-invasive approach to quantify liver stiffening, a surrogate for hepatic fibrosis. However, it has drawbacks, including long exam time, patient discomfort, and the need for additional hardware. The objective of this multi-site study is to develop a machine learning model to categorically stratify the severity of liver stiffness using clinical, routinely collected T2-weighted MRI data from pediatric and adult patients from four study sites. With radiomic features extracted from MRI data, our model achieved an AUROC of 0.72 for stratifying liver stiffness, demonstrating the potential of such a machine learning strategy for clinical utilization.
The relationship between the prognosis of NAFLD and abdominal organ fat fraction
Authors: Pan Xingchen , Fu Jiahui , Zhang Lei , Jiang Yueluan , Sun Ye , Shi Xin , Yang Fan
Published: August 2024

The relationship between the prognosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) treatment and the fat fraction or fat area of other abdominal organs has not been explored. In this study, we measured the proton density fat fraction of four subsegments of the liver, pancreas, renal cortex, thoracic 12 and lumbar 1 vertebral body, and the area of subcutaneous adipose tissue and visceral adipose tissue at the level of lumbar 3, and explored their relationship with the prognosis of NAFLD.
Prognostic Value of ADC Histogram Analysis in Men with High Risk Prostate Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Hormonal Therapy after Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: He Kangwen , Meng Xiaoyan , Li Zhen
Published: August 2024

直方图分析是医学图像的定量后处理方法，被认为在癌症管理中很有价值。我们使用表观扩散系数 (ADC) 图的直方图参数分析了在根治性前列腺切除术 (RP) 后接受辅助激素治疗 (AHT) 的高危前列腺癌 (PCa) 患者的结果。我们观察到，较低的 ADC 50 和较高的峰度可以独立预测较差的生化无复发生存期 (BCR-fs)，并且当添加直方图参数时，预后模型的性能会有所提高。我们的研究结果显示了 ADC 直方图分析在这一特定的 PCa 患者亚组中的增量预后价值。
Retrospective T2 quantification from conventional weighted MRI of the prostate based on deep learning
Authors: Sun Haoran , Wang Lixia , Daskivich Timothy , Qiu Shihan , Han Fei , D'Agnolo Alessandro , Saouaf Rola , Kim Hyung , Li Debiao , Xie Yibin
Published: August 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common types of cancer with a considerable morbidity and mortality. Multiparametric MRI as a noninvasive imaging tool in PCa diagnosis has limitations. Recent studies suggest that quantitative T2 information is helpful in PCa diagnosis and lesion characterization but is not generally available due to the need for additional scans. Here, we developed a DL-based method to estimate T2 maps retrospectively from clinically acquired T1- and T2-weighted images. The developed technique has the potential to improve PCa diagnosis and lesion characterization using quantitative T2 information estimated from conventional clinical scans.
Primary prostate cancer characterisation using internal references for 23Na MRI quantification
Authors: Adlung Anne , Tollens Fabian , Strittmatter Anika , Westhoff Niklas , Hausmann Daniel , Schoenberg Stefan , Schad Lothar , Nörenberg Dominik , Zöllner Frank
Published: August 2024

Aim of this prospective study was to evaluate 23Na MRI of 36 patients with suspected prostate cancer and quantify tissue sodium concentration (TSC) based on internal references. TSC reference regions were defined within both femoral blood vessels (FBV), where TSC showed no significant differences between both sides (3.3±2.2 mM, p=0.076). TSC in the prostate was 39.0±5.3 mM; significantly higher in the peripheral than in the transitional zone (p=0.0004, mean difference 4.7±3.5 mM). Nine lesions were segmented and showed mean TSC of 32.2±5.5, significantly lower than contralateral (p=0.0181). TSC might represent a quantitative biomarker that could improve prostate lesion characterization.
Neural Shape Models Predict Knee Pain Better than Conventional Statistical Shape Models: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Gatti Anthony , Van Veen Dave , Gold Garry , Delp Scott , Chaudhari Akshay
Published: August 2024

MRI-based statistical shape models can predict future disease and distinguish between patient groups. However, these models require thousands of matching points between bones which may introduce biases and their strictly linearly orthogonal features is a limitation. This study built continuous 3D shape representations of the femur using neural implicit representations and used the learned latent space to predict knee pain. The neural shape model can generate arbitrarily high resolution surfaces and predict pain with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.7 and sensitivity of 0.89, metrics comparable to deep learning methods trained on orders of magnitude more data.
Estimating time-to-total knee replacement surgery using deep learning
Authors: Hedayati Eisa , Rajamohan Haresh , Zhou Lily , Cho Kyunghyun , Chang Gregory , Kijowski Richard , Deniz Cem
Published: August 2024

When do I need my knee replaced? is a common question of patients with progressed osteoarthritis conditions. However, answering that question is not trivial, especially for cases that do not result in an immediate surgery. To help doctors addressing this question we employed neural networks to recommend an estimated subject-specific date for the total knee replacement (TKR).
Olfactory Oddball Detection Task Activates the Left Temporoparietal Junction
Authors: Karunanayaka Prasanna , Ahmed Biyar , Elyan Rommy , Yang Qing
Published: August 2024

Both the medial and inferior temporal lobes have been previously implicated in odor-identification. However, the precise neural substrate remains unclear. We used a novel oddball detection olfactory fMRI task to probe the neural basis of odor identification. fMRI activation was detected in the left temporoparietal junction along with known olfactory brain structures. Given the presence of odor identification deficits in early Alzheimer’s disease (AD), our paradigm has the potential to establish relationships between olfactory deficits, neurodegeneration, and memory impairment.
Glutathione+γ-Aminobutyric Acid Detection Improves Inter-Subject Concentration Variability at 3T
Authors: Knight-Scott Jack , Caillaud Marie , Gallagher Isabelle , Li Yanrong , Haley Andreana
Published: August 2024

Quantification of the combination glutathione (GSH) + γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at 3T in medium TE but high signal-noise brain spectra yields a stable concentration with a low coefficient of variation (CV) of only 6%, smaller than individual CV values for GSH or GABA. While an indication of the interdependency of GSH and GABA quantification, [GSH+GABA] also suggests a pathway for the study of perturbations in GABA and GSH at 3T while maintaining the high information content typical of un-edited spectra.
3D MRI Texture Analysis of the Brain in Obese Subjects with OSA: Analysis of Brain Injury and Relationship to Cognitive Impairments
Authors: Sare Daniel , Brocke Amartei , Kassner Andrea
Published: August 2024

Up to 60% of obese youths with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are afflicted with episodes of nocturnal hypoxia, a known risk factor for structural cerebral alterations and neurocognitive problems leading to cognitive impairment. By applying grey-level co-occurrence-based texture analysis in children with and without OSA, we were able to show that the presence of OSA is associated with microscopic changes in normal appearing white matter in regions impacted by cognitive impairment. The findings support the lower tissue homogeneity, and decrease in cortical density and thickness seen in moderate-severe OSA groups.
Demonstration of brain temperature as a parameter for treatment stratification after acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Sung Dongsuk , Kottke Peter , Allen Jason , Nahab Fadi , Fedorov Andrei , Fleischer Candace
Published: August 2024

Prior research has demonstrated the benefits of endovascular thrombectomy after acute ischemic stroke. Despite improvements in surgical techniques, patient selection for thrombectomy remains challenging. In this case study, we explored the utility of brain temperature to accurately predict infarct core and salvageable tissue to stratify patients for thrombectomy. We observed infarct volume estimated from temperature maps was more similar than CT perfusion to the true infarct volume identified using apparent diffusion coefficient images from diffusion weighted imaging. Temperature-based ischemia-to-infarct ratio showed better patient stratification than conventional methods, suggesting the complementary use of brain temperature in patient selection after ischemic stroke.
Altered static and dynamic spontaneous neural activity in patients with ischemic pontine stroke
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Caihong , Liu Jingchun , Guo Jun , Miao Peifang , Wei Ying , Wang Kaiyu , Cheng Jingliang , Ren Cuiping
Published: August 2024

We aimed to investigate the static and dynamic characteristics of brain activity after stroke by using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Seventy-three patients with pontine ischemic stroke and 50 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited and received a resting-state fMRI scanning. Our result shows that there are significantly altered sALFF/dALFF and sReHo/dReHo values in the brain regions of patients. And the alterations of dynamic brain activity in the basal ganglia and cerebellum were correlated with the degree of cognitive impairment. Static and dynamic biomarkers can be combined together to provide more comprehensive information on potential therapeutic targets.
The importance of cardiac MRI (CMR) in pediatric acute myocarditis, and it’s correlation with high sensitivity troponin
Authors: Abadeer Maher , Fares Munes , Dillenbeck Jeanne , Artunduaga Maddy , Avula Sravani , Dzelebdzic Sanja , Philip Steven , Hussain Tarique , Greil Gerald
Published: August 2024

Pediatric myocarditis is associated with major morbidity and mortality. Biomarkers are needed to predict clinical outcomes. High-sensitivity troponin (hs-TnT) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) have been shown to correlate with poor outcomes in adult populations. We found that LGE and hs-TnT linearly correlated with each other in our pediatric population, and that children with myocarditis were more likely to be male, have a higher LGE score, higher hs-TnT values, and increased T2 signal intensity than those who did not. A cut-off of 1200 ms for native T1 global mean was significantly associated with the need for inotropic support.
Cost Analysis of Cardiac MRI for Cardiac Transplant Surveillance
Authors: Samyn Margaret , Yan Ke , Godown Justin , Kindel Steven , Damon Bruce , Soslow Jonathan , Affleck-Graves John
Published: August 2024

Current transplant surveillance relies on frequent cardiac catheterization with endomyocardial biopsy (cath EMB) to detect life threatening acute rejection. Cardiac MRI has emerged as a diagnostic tool which can characterize the myocardium. The PEACE study (R01-HL164995-01) aims to evaluate the potential for using cardiac MRI parametric mapping as a pre-cath EMB screening tool to alleviate both patient and family burden and the financial burden of cath EMB. Consistent with the recent emphasis on "Value MRI," we therefore sought to understand the potential Medicare savings, if MRI is used for transplant surveillance for healthy heart transplant recipients rather than cath EMB.
Optimized Fast Gray Matter Acquisition T1 Inversion Recovery MRI for Localizing Mammillothalamic Tract in Deep Brain Stimulation Targeting
Authors: Zhang Kuan , Kang Daehun , Halverson Maria , Tao Shengzhen , Messina Steven , In MyungHo , Trzasko Joshua , Huston John , Bernstein Matthew , Shu Yunhong
Published: August 2024

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is used for neurological disorder treatment but requires precise image-based targeting. The fast gray matter acquisition T1 inversion recovery (FGATIR) sequence was developed to visualize DBS targets, such as the mammillothalamic tract (MTT). We investigated the imaging protocol of FGATIR through simulation, phantom experiment, and volunteer scanning to improve the contrast-to-noise ratio. Adjustments to inversion time, flip angle, and receive bandwidth were made to achieve the highest MTT-thalamus contrast. A compact 3T scanner was also leveraged to further maximize the contrast as the high-performance gradients reduce repetition time, thereby decreased the acquisition window of FGATIR.
Magnetic Resonance Elastography: A Comparison with Virtual Diffusion Derived Elastography
Authors: Eriksson Jonatan , Bartholomä Wolf , Dahlström Nils , Tellman Jens , Kechagias Stergios , Nasr Patrik , Ekstedt Mattias , Lundberg Peter , Kihlberg Johan
Published: August 2024

A virtual manner of determining apparent stiffness values from diffusion images, so called ‘vMRE’, was evaluated in this study which included both healthy subjects and patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). No association was observed between true MR-Elastography (MRE) and vMRE. However, the difference between MRE and vMRE was more strongly correlated with T2*. Iron deposition is not uncommon in patients with NAFLD, and for that reason, a spin echo-MRE sequence was used, instead of the gradient-based sequence that has been used previously. Iron deposition in liver shortens T2*, which can also affect diffusion images and the vMRE.
Shortening T2-weighted TSE for prostate MRI by reducing the number of echo-trains and using CS reconstruction
Authors: Mir Nida , Damen Saskia , Wolterink Jelmer , Simonis Frank , Fütterer Jurgen
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to speed up the turbo spin echo (TSE) sequence for prostate MRI by undersampling the k-space, while aiming to retain PSNR/SSIM. We conducted undersampling retrospectively by omitting echo-trains in the TSE sequence based on the proximity of the echoes (within the echo-trains) to the centre of the K-space. The proposed method speeds up the TSE acquisition time by 20%, while retaining the PSNR/SSIM for a kiwi phantom. Optimizing an undersampling pattern for prostate therefore can lead to a substantial decrease in the total scan time.
Comparison of post mortem in situ and in vivo intravoxel incoherent motion of the human brain
Authors: Bauer Melanie , Berger Celine , Scheurer Eva , Lenz Claudia
Published: August 2024

Performing intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance imaging offers the possibility to differentiate various diffusion processes according to their varying molecule speeds. In this study, the IVIM parameters perfusion fraction, diffusion and pseudo-diffusion were determined in the human brain for 12 post mortem in situ and 2 in vivo cases. Our results show that the IVIM parameters decrease after death and that they are higher in gray matter than in white matter. Besides, the age at death, the core temperature of the subjects and the post mortem interval have an effect on the post mortem IVIM parameters.
The diagnostic value of TSE-DWI in patient with Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): a feasibility study
Authors: Yin Cuilin , Bai Jingjing , Ding Ningning , Ai Kai , Yang Jian
Published: August 2024

This study explored the feasibility of TSE-DWI in inner ear and determined the diagnostic accuracy and interobserver performance of TSE-DWI in BPPV. The method is to evaluate the difference of ADC values between benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) patients and healthy controls. Our research shows that The ADC values of semicircular canal in the BPPV patients (affected side) were higher than that of the contralateral ear. Moderate diagnostic accuracy of DWI was seen in the diagnosis of BPPV. Therefore, we consider that the TSE-DWI derived ADC value may represent promising novel imaging markers of inner ear disease.
Identification of intracranial atherosclerotic plaque features associated with recurrent stroke: a multi-modality imaging study
Authors: Wang Lingling , Sun Beibei , Orouskhani Maysam , Mossa-Basha Mahmud , Xu Jianrong , Zhou Yan , Zhu Chengcheng , Zhao Huilin
Published: August 2024

Intracranial atherosclerotic plaque is a major cause of stroke. Both CTA and vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging (VW-MRI) can identify high risk plaque features. We aim to investigate the intracranial atherosclerotic plaque features associated with recurrent stroke using a multi-modality imaging approach by combining CTA and whole brain VW-MR. We found that higher calcium burden quantified by volume and Agatston score of intracranial arteries, as well as whole-brain plaque number and culprit plaque burden were independently associated with recurrent acute stroke.
Multiparametric MRI-based fusion radiomics for preoperatively predicting TERT promoter mutation status and survival in glioblastoma patients
Authors: Zhang Hongbo , Zhang Hanwen , Zhou Beibei , Zhang Yuze , Wu Lei , Lei Yi , Huang Biao
Published: August 2024

Radiomics uses computer software to mine massive quantitative image features from medical imaging images and then screens the most valuable radiomics features using statistical and/or machine learning methods. Furthermore, it is used to parse clinical information for disease characterisation, tumour grading and staging, efficacy evaluation, and prognosis prediction. In our study, we demonstrated that multiparametric MRI-based fusion radiomics model is an effective preoperative non-invasive method to predict telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter mutations and progression-free survival in glioblastoma patients.
Quantitative MRI for radiation oncology patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Madore Bruno , Guenette Jeffrey , Schoenfeld Jonathan , Kaza Evangelia
Published: August 2024

Radiation oncology patients often undergo longitudinal scans to evaluate the effect of treatments on lesions, and to monitor surrounding tissues. We are considering the inclusion of quantitative MRI in current imaging protocols. To this end, we implemented a simple quantitative imaging technique and tested it in a small cohort of five patients. Results captured differences in T1 and T2 between tissues on the treated side vs. the contralateral tissues. Little work has been done so far with MRI relaxometry for monitoring treatment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and this work represents an early step in this direction.
Free Breathing Simultaneous Multislice Diffusion Weighted Imaging of the Pediatric Abdomen Reduces Scan Time Without Sacrificing Image Quality
Authors: Syed Ali , Jayapal Praveen
Published: August 2024

Simultaneous Multislice (SMS) techniques can reduce scan time without significant impact on image quality. SMS techniques rely on coil geometry, which can be unfavorable in pediatric patients due to large variations in size. At the same time, pediatric imaging often demands minimizing scan time to increase patient compliance and reduce exposure to sedating medications. We evaluate the use of SMS diffusion weighted imaging applied to pediatric abdominal DWI and show that image quality is similar to standard DWI but with significant reduction in scan time. ADC values are not significantly affected.
VUDU-SAGE: Efficient T2 and T2* Mapping using Joint Reconstruction for Motion-Robust, Distortion-Free, Multi-Shot, Multi-Echo EPI
Authors: Cho Jaejin , Kim Tae Hyung , Berman Avery , Jun Yohan , Wang Xiaoqing , Gagoski Borjan , Bilgic Berkin
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate T2 and T2* mapping and joint reconstruction for multi-echo, multi-shot EPI data from a variable flip angle, blip-up and -down undersampling (VUDU) for spin and gradient echo (SAGE) acquisition. VUDU-SAGE employs a blip-up and -down acquisition strategy for correcting B0 distortion, and FLEET-ordering for motion-robust multi-shot EPI while maximizing signal using variable flip angles. VUDU-SAGE acquires five echoes consisting of two gradient-echo, two mixed, and one spin-echo contrasts. We jointly reconstruct all echoes and estimate T2 and T2* maps using Bloch dictionary matching. In-vivo experiment presents T2 and T2* map at 1x1x4mm3 resolution with a 9-second acquisition.
Ex vivo lymph node staging by a portable low-field MRI scanner
Authors: Christenhusz Anke , Simonis Frank , Haken Bennie ten , Wildt Justin te , Sadamzadeh Sadaf , Dassen Anneriet , Alic Lejla
Published: August 2024

Sentinel lymph node (LN) biopsy facilitated by magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) is introduced for breast cancer patients eligible for breast conserving surgery. As m1etastatic depositions potentially introduce changes in heterogeneity of MNP-enhanced MRI, a portable low-field MRI scanner can be used for ex vivo perioperative LN staging. Therefore, we assessed the changes in T1w, T2w and STIR images due to iron deposition in LN. 2Clinically relevant LN segments, such as fat and iron depositions, identified in the pathology images, were also observable in MR scans.
High-level and modular description of MRI sequences using domain-specific language
Authors: Huber Jörn , Hoinkiss Daniel Christopher , Plump Christina , Lüth Christoph , Drechsler Rolf , Günther Matthias
Published: August 2024

This work demonstrates the formulation of MRI sequences in a high-level Domain Specific Language (DSL). The DSL approach reduces the complexity of MR sequence programming and enables optimization of preconfigured DSL parameters using MR simulations. Finally, using the gammaSTAR framework, DSL sequences can be directly run on real MR scanners.
Value of texture analysis based on R2* map for predicting early recurrence of HCC after hepatectomy
Authors: Xu Qihao , Liu Ailian , Zhao Ying , Wang Yue , Lin Tao , Ren Xue , Song Qingwei , Guo Yan , Li Xin , Wu Tingfan
Published: August 2024

Hepatectomy is an important therapeutic method for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The overall survival rate of patients with early recurrence is often lower than that of patients without early recurrence. Therefore, this worked aimed at investigating the value of texture analysis based on R2* map for predicting early recurrence of HCC after hepatectomy. Eleven optimal texture features were obtained to predict early recurrence of HCC. This research suggested that R2* map texture analysis had certain predictive value for early recurrence of HCC after hepatectomy, which was valuable for noninvasively, preoperatively and accurately predicting the prognostic factors during clinical practice.
Tumor burden assessment in a SB CCA.Mdr2-/- cholangiocarcinoma mouse model with gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI at 9.4 T
Authors: Dou Qianhui , Huang Pinzhu , Kirkpatrick Jesse , Skelton-Badlani Disha , Varma Gopal , Grant Aaron , Popov Yury , Tsai Leo
Published: August 2024

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a primary biliary malignancy with very poor prognosis. Early diagnostic detection and effective targeted therapies remain challenging. A novel hepatic fibrosis/CCA mouse model provides an investigative platform, but in vivo tumor detection/tracking is needed. Here we trial the use of in vivo MRI with gadoxetate disodium to detect CCA tumors and to differentiate infiltrative CCA from fibrosis in these models.
MR-Guided Cryoablation to Upregulate the Immune Response in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Kraitchman Dara , Doucet Michele , Powers Sarah , Bhutta Alainah , Kulp Emily , Ehtiati Tina , Rice Cheri , Maranto Cindy , Gabrielson Kathleen , Brayton Cory , Ladle Brian
Published: August 2024

Osteosarcoma (OSA) is the most common bone cancer in young adults and dogs and almost invariably lethal when the cancer spreads. MR-guided cryoablation offers the potential to cause direct bone necrosis and palliative pain management and has shown the potential to upregulate the immune response in prostate and breast cancer to prevent or shrink metastatic disease. The current study seeks to determine the immune response of MR-guided cryoablation in spontaneously occurring canine osteosarcoma in comparison to X-ray-guided intratumoral Stimulator of Interferon Gene (STING) immunotherapy as determine by survival time and measurement of inflammatory infilitrates.
Imaging perfusion in the vertebral bone marrow and subchondral bone using FAIR ASL
Authors: Muftuler L. Tugan , Budde Matthew
Published: August 2024

Some patients with chronic low back pain (cLBP) do not show any diagnosable conditions in conventional imaging methods. Studies suggested that pain could be associated with the degeneration of vertebral endplate region in those nonspecific cLBP patients. The endplates around degenerating discs experience trauma, which leads to inflammation, angiogenesis, neurogenesis and infection. Currently, there is no established method to diagnose such pathologies. We previously reported associations between increased endplate perfusion and experience of cLBP using DCEMRI. In this study we explored Arterial Spin Labeling to avoid using contrast agents. Results show that FAIR could be used to study endplate perfusion.
Deep learning reconstruction of zero echo time imaging: bone erosion detection in axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Hahn Seok , Yi Jisook , Lee Ho-Joon , Lee Sunggun , Park Sekyoung , Lee Joonsung , de Arcos Jose , Fung Maggie
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance of DLR of ZTE imaging for bone erosion in axial spondyloarthritis, using CT as the reference standard. Twenty-three patients with suspicion of sacroiliitis underwent both CT and MR scans of sacroiliac joints included for analysis. ZTE with or with DLR showed higher correlation coefficients than T1WI for two readers. Inter-reader agreements showed moderate to substantial agreement. ZTE DLR improves diagnostic performance in the detection of SIJ bone erosion in patients with axial spondyloarthritis compared with T1WI and ZTE without DLR.
Construction of disease progression prediction model for PD patients based on DTI data
Authors: Chen Amei , Huang Junxiang , Huang Xiaofei , Cheng Xiaofang , Xu Yongzhou , Wei Xinhua
Published: August 2024

In this study, the machine learning method was used to establish a prediction model for Parkinson’s disease(PD) progression by using white matter connectivity and clinical information. A total of 123 PD patients were included. White matter network connection analysis and clinical information collection were performed for each patient. The results showed that combined with the white matter connection and clinical features, a good model of PD disease progression was established. White matter network connectivity helps predict PD progression at the individual level.
Relationship between electric conductivity, water content, and protein content in brain tumors
Authors: Katscher Ulrich , Tha Khin
Published: August 2024

Strong mutual relation is observed between tissue electrical conductivity, water content, and sodium concentration. However, it was recently reported that the relation between conductivity and water content might hold only for healthy tissue but be violated in tumors. It was furthermore reported that water content relates only to free sodium, while conductivity additionally relates also to sodium bound to proteins. A discrepancy between water content and conductivity might thus indicate protein concentration. The current study confirms this hypothesis by comparing the discrepancy between water content and conductivity with Amide Proton Transfer imaging as a marker of protein concentration.
Functional mapping in gliomas: a comparison between presurgical resting-state fMRI and intraoperative Direct Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Moretto Manuela , Luciani Beatrice , Saviola Francesca , Tambalo Stefano , Zigiotto Luca , Cabalo Donna , Annicchiarico Luciano , Venturini Martina , Sarubbo Silvio , Jovicich Jorge
Published: August 2024

Resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) has been proposed as a non-invasive technique for the presurgical mapping of functional networks, in contrast to intraoperative Direct Electrical Stimulation (DES) mapping. While previous studies have investigated the agreement between a predefined DES atlas and resting-state networks in low-grade glioma patients, here we exploit patient-specific DES points and the ReStNeuMap tool to investigate the agreement between sensorimotor, language and speech-articulation networks in a cohort of high- and low-grade glioma patients. We found a good overlap between ReStNeuMap-derived networks and DES points, while low spatial similarity between networks and functional connectivity maps derived from DES.
MR multitasking-based dynamic imaging forcerebrovascular evaluation (MT-DICE) in brain tumors
Authors: Xiao Jiayu , Chen Yang , Ye Jason , Hu Zhehao , Christodoulou Anthony , Shiroshi Mark , Li Debiao , Fan Zhaoyang
Published: August 2024

Brain tumors represent a great therapeutic challenge and tend to impact blood brain barrier (BBB) integrity, angiogenesis, and vascularity. Dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI is widely used to quantify BBB permeability and dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI (DSC) is used to quantify cerebral perfusion. We incorporated the newly developed MR multitasking-based dynamic imaging for cerebrovascular evaluation (MT-DICE) technique to achieve simultaneous DCE and DSC acquisition with a single-dose injection. MT-DICE could quantify DCE and DSC parameters with good inter-reader agreement in patients with brain tumors. The intratumoral enhanced region showed more severe BBB disruption and higher perfusion than the peritumoral T2-hyperintense regions.
Quantitative Assessment of Gyrification Patterns and Symmetry of the Fetal Brain based on Routine Fetal 2D MRI
Authors: Yehuda Bossmat , Rabinowich Aviad , Surani Dafi , Wexler Yair , avisdris Netanell , Ben-Zvi Ori , Spector Bella , Joskowicz Leo , Ben-Sira Liat , Miller Elka , Ben Bashat Dafna
Published: August 2024

Current clinical assessment of fetal brain gyrification is performed manually and subjectively. Previous studies that suggested methods for quantitative assessment of fetal brain gyrification were based on 3D reconstruction. In this study we propose an automatic method for quantifying the gyrification from routinely acquired 2D clinical data. We calculate five different gyrification indices for both the right and left hemispheres. We present developmental curves of 134 control fetuses in a wide range of GA (18-37 weeks) and demonstrate differences between control fetuses and fetuses with malformation of cortical development: five with lissencephaly and 13 with polymicrogyria.
Exploring the effect of elevated maternal BMI on image quality in fetal MRI
Authors: Colford Kathleen , Cromb Daniel , Hesketh Zoe , Finck Tom , Ceren-Tanritanir Ayse , Counsell Serena , Rutherford Mary
Published: August 2024

We assessed SNR (signal-to-noise-ratio) against elevated maternal BMI in fetal brain/body MRI imaging to examine if SNR decreases both objectively/subjectively, and if MRI could be an alternative imaging modality in prenatal care. Spearman’s Correlation-Rank coefficient was used to identify relationships between SNR measurements in ROI’s and maternal BMI. There’s a negative downward trend between maternal BMI and SNR seen for all fetal ROIs (particularly in regions more susceptible to SNR); subjective assessment didn’t identify any association between BMI and image quality. Our results suggest that MRI is a viable alternative to ultrasound in pregnant women with elevated BMI.
Integration of imaging measurements at micro-, meso and macro-scale of the caudal medulla on a postmortem infant subject
Authors: Magnain Caroline , Haynes Robin , Augustinack Jean , Kinney Hannah , Zollei Lilla
Published: August 2024

The core lesion of SIDS is a set of medullar nuclei with abnormalities correlated with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). We performed ex vivo whole brain and brainstem MRI, optical coherence tomography and histology at an unprecedented spatial resolution on a postmortem infant brain to investigate the structural properties of the caudal medulla. In our image processing pipeline, we register all image modalities into the same coordinate system along with a rich set of segmentation labels. Such multimodal construction helps us validate imaging findings at various resolution levels and will serve as prior information in automated segmentation solutions.
Assessing the development of brain's structural connectivity in the perinatal stage with diffusion MRI
Authors: Wu Yihan , Vasung Lana , Karimi Davood , Gholipour Ali
Published: August 2024

This study analyzed the development of brain's structural connectivity during the perinatal period using the diffusion MRI data of 263 subjects from the dHCP dataset. We used anatomically constrained probabilistic tractography to reconstruct structural connectomes. We computed connectivity metrics to assess network integration and segregation and tested for the effects of postmenstrual age (PMA), premature birth, and gender. Results showed increasing network integration and segregation with PMA in the range 29 to 45 weeks. Premature birth and male gender were associated with significantly lower rates of increase in global efficiency.
ScanHub: Open-Source Platform for MR Scanner Control, Acquisitions and Postprocessing
Authors: Schote David , Behrens Johannes , Winter Lukas , Kolbitsch Christoph , Dinh Christoph
Published: August 2024

ScanHub (https://github.com/brain-link/scanhub-ui) is an open, generic solution for cloud-based medical data acquisition and processing. Functionalities are subdivided into microservices supporting use cases in the clinical as well as in the research context. The platform capabilities are demonstrated with an exemplary MRI workflow. As a proof of principle MR data acquisition was simulated with an open-source Bloch solver. A reconstruction of the simulated raw data is provided by a microservice. The whole acquisition process is controlled via a web-based UI; from deploying a pulse sequence to the organization and visualization of reconstructed and DICOMized results.
Open-source dynamic MRI workflow for reproducible research
Authors: Kumar Prakash , Tasdelen Bilal , Nayak Krishna
Published: August 2024

This work presents an open-source workflow for dynamic MR acquisition and reconstruction. The entire workflow consists of vendor-agnostic tools to allow for immediate sharing of data, pulse sequence, and reconstruction code across sites. This work is an adaptation of Open-Source MR Imaging and Reconstruction Workflow to dynamic imaging (Veldmann et. al, MRM 88(6):2395-2407). Using the FIRE interface, we demonstrate a Gadgetron loader of acquisition metadata including k-space trajectories and present a pipeline to convert pulse sequences developed through HeartVista’s SpinBench into Pulseq for easy sharing of sequences.
qMRpy: a cross-platform, extensible and easy-to-use open-source Python toolbox for efficient estimation of quantitative MR properties
Authors: Cencini Matteo , Lancione Marta , Peretti Luca , Tosetti Michela
Published: August 2024

Quantitative MRI methods improve tissue characterization and allow for better longitudinal assessment, but need efficient and reliable fitting routines. Currently available qMR frameworks, while covering a wide range of applications, suffer either from a relatively low efficiency or require non-trivial compilation steps. Here, we propose an open-source framework for qMR quantification which maintains a good computational efficiency without sacrificing the readability and customizability of the code.
Free-Breathing, Gadoxetic Acid Enhanced, 3D T1w Phase Sensitive Inversion Recovery Hepatobiliary MRI Optimized for 3.0 Tesla
Authors: Muslu Yavuz , Cashen Ty , Mandava Sagar , Hernando Diego , Reeder Scott
Published: August 2024

Gadoxetic acid (GA)-enhanced hepatobiliary phase (HBP) T1-weighted (T1w) MRI is well established for the detection of focal liver lesions. Previously, we proposed a novel imaging method to improve T1 contrast in GA-enhanced HBP T1w images for the purpose of improved detection and characterization of liver lesions. The proposed method provides volumetric, high-resolution phase-sensitive inversion recovery (PSIR) T1w images of the liver from a free-breathing image acquisition. This study focuses on the impact of flip angle and spoiling on image quality. Our findings indicate 6-8 degrees flip angle in combination with gradient spoiling provides optimal image quality and T1 contrast.
Active Breathing Guidance for T2-weighted liver MRI sequences: a novel in-bore solution for image quality and efficiency improvement
Authors: Mesropyan Narine , Katemann Christoph , Heuvelink-Marck Annerieke , Isaak Alexander , Kravchenko Dmitrij , Bischoff Leon , Denissen Ad , Pieper Claus , Kuetting Daniel , Attenberger Ulrike , Luetkens Julian
Published: August 2024

Breathing artifacts in liver MRI lead to impaired image quality, decreased diagnostic confidence, and, as a consequence, longer acquisition times or repetitive examinations. To improve the image quality and scan efficiency we integrated a newly developed in-bore breathing guidance application for T2 weighted sequences with propeller acquisition (MultiVaneXD) (T2BG) and compared it to a conventional free-breathing acquisition method (T2conv). Our study results suggest that an active breathing guidance for T2w liver MRI sequences significantly reduces breathing artifacts and total scan times by 21% while maintaining high image quality.
Feasibility of Routine Abdominal MR Imaging in Patients at 0.55T: Comparison with 1.5 and 3T
Authors: Ramachandran Anupama , Seiberlich Nicole , Wright Katherine , Richardson Jacob , Dudek Nancy , Morehouse Joel , Lala Mishal , Gulani Vikas , Hussain Hero
Published: August 2024

Abdominal MRI performed in 51 patients on a commercial 0.55T system were retrospectively and independently rated by two radiologists for diagnostic performance and image quality (IQ). Twenty-eight patients had comparison scans performed at higher field strengths. The clinical question was answered by both radiologists in all 51 cases performed at 0.55T, and the average IQ of all sequences was acceptable. In the subset of patients with comparison studies, the average IQ scores were significantly higher at 0.55T for DWI. No statistically significant difference was seen in IQ for the other sequences. Total acquisition time was almost double at 0.55T.
Deep-Learning-Based Knee Articular Cartilage Morphometrics
Authors: Yao Yongcheng , Chen Weitian
Published: August 2024

We proposed a deep-learning-based system for automatic knee articular cartilage morphometrics. It produces regional metrics including full-thickness cartilage loss (FCL), mean thickness, surface area, and volume. The proposed system comprises deep learning models and algorithms that work collaboratively. We have trained convolutional neural networks for tissue segmentation, template construction, and image registration. We designed modules and pipelines for cartilage thickness mapping, cartilage lesion quantification, and cartilage parcellation. Results shows superior accuracy of the thickness mapping method and robustness of the cartilage parcellation method. The proposed FCL estimation method filled the gap in automatic cartilage lesions quantification.
Water content and T2 changes in ex vivo bovine knee cartilage under compressive strain
Authors: Yung Andrew , Sullivan Emily , Küpper Jessica , Bale Kirsten , Kozlowski Piotr , Wilson David
Published: August 2024

We present a novel approach to cartilage multi-echo data where T2 reflects focal changes in strain along the cartilage depth, and the signal amplitude reflects a measure of water content which presents a simpler pattern of change that reflects strain. Ex vivo bovine knee samples were scanned at 9.4T while under load, with high resolution along the cartilage depth to allow direct measurement of strain. Changes in water content were found to be more spatially uniform than the complex depth dependence shown by T2, and showed a high degree of correlation to whole-cartilage averages of bulk strain.
Angiographic Comparison of Different Velocity-Selective Labeling Modules Directly on Cerebral Arteries
Authors: Liu Dapeng , Zhu Dan , Qin Qin
Published: August 2024

Velocity-selective labeling has been utilized in both arterial spin labeling (VSASL) and angiography (VSMRA). This study evaluated the labeling characteristics directly on various cerebral arteries using VSMRA with different VS labeling modules, including double refocused hyperbolic tangent (DRHT), eight-segment B1-insensitive rotation (BIR-8), delay alternating with nutation for tailored excitation (DANTE), Fourier transform based velocity-selective saturation (FT-VSS) and inversion (FT-VSI). Their effects on both the cerebral arterial vasculature and static brain tissue were visualized angiographically and compared quantitatively. And the implication for VSASL and VSMRA are discussed.
Characterization of Cerebral Perforating Arteries using submillimeter-resolution PC-MRI with Dual-VENC at 3T: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Tang Jianing , Chui Helena , Yan Lirong
Published: August 2024

Direct characterization of cerebral perforating arteries, such as lenticulostriate arteries (LSAs), can provide valuable insight for understanding the pathology of small vessel diseases. Previous studies have demonstrated the feasibility of 7T PC-MRI for the characterization of LSA pulsatility. However, 7T MRI has not been in widespread use in both clinical and research studies, compared to conventional 3T. The current study aims to study the feasibility of using 3T dual-VENC PC-MRI to characterize LSA pulsatility. Our results show that 3T PC-MRI with dual-VENC offers reliable LSA pulsatility measurements that are comparable to 7T measurements.
Consistency between 2D and 3D amide proton weighted imaging on brain tumors
Authors: liu na , lin liangjie , zhang yukun , liu ailian , song qingwei , miao yanwei
Published: August 2024

Amide Proton Transfer (APT) weighted imaging is a new type of magnetic resonance molecular imaging technology derived from Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) technology. APT weighted imaging can be carried out with 2D and 3D acquisition mode, so called as 2D- and 3D-APT respectively. There is no relevant report on the comparison of 2D and 3D-APT imaging on brain tumors. This study intends to compare and analyze the performance of 2D- and 3D-APT imaging on brain tumors through imaging and pathological data, and recommend a better APT imaging scheme to improve the diagnosis of brain tumors.
Histogram analysis of APT Combined with DTI and DSC MRI for Predicting IDH Mutation and MGMT promotor methylation Status in Glioma
Authors: Zhang Lan , Zhang Xinli , Fu Xiaona , Jia Yuxi , Liu Xiaoming , Cheng Lan , Tan Zhengwu , Li Xudong , Cheng Zhengyin , Dong Xiaochuan , Sun Peng , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Jiang Xiaobin , Zheng Chuansheng , Wang Xuan , Wang Jing
Published: August 2024

In this study, the diagnostic performance of histogram features of APT, DTI and DSC in predicting IDH mutation and MGMT promoter methylation status of gliomas was compared. Secondly, the histogram parameters from the signal-time intensity curve of DSC significantly improved the predictive performance of DSC model. Most importantly, the combined logistic regression model combined with APT, DTI and DSC can evaluate the tumor nature of glioma more comprehensively and obtain better diagnostic performance, which is expected to become an imaging molecular marker for the prediction of glioma genotyping in the future.