bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A transfer learning approach to predict Axon Diameter and g-ratio distributions from MRI Data
Authors: Kung* Gustavo Chau Loo , Weber* Emmanuelle , Knowles Juliet , Batra Ankita , Ni Lijun , McNab Jennifer
Published: August 2024

To better establish the influence of histological features on the MRI signal, we present a multi-task neural network trained to predict parametrized microstructural distributions (axon diameters and g-ratios) from diffusion and magnetization transfer MRI data. To begin, we trained the model using histologically-derived synthetic MRI data before applying transfer learning by fine tuning on empirical data. Our initial results on both synthetic and empirical ex vivo mouse brain MRI data demonstrate the feasibility of this approach.
SRNR: Training neural networks for Super-Resolution MRI using Noisy high-resolution Reference data
Authors: Xiao Jiaxin , Li Zihan , Bilgic Berkin , Polimeni Jonathan , Huang Susie , Tian Qiyuan
Published: August 2024

Neural network (NN) based approaches for super-resolution MRI typically require high-SNR high-resolution reference data acquired in many subjects, which is time consuming and a barrier to feasible and accessible implementation. We propose to train NNs for Super-Resolution using Noisy Reference data (SRNR), leveraging the mechanism of the classic NN-based denoising method Noise2Noise. We systematically demonstrate that results from NNs trained using noisy and high-SNR references are similar for both simulated and empirical data. SRNR suggests a smaller number of repetitions of high-resolution reference data can be used to simplify the training data preparation for super-resolution MRI.
Motion-Aware Neural Networks Improve Rigid Motion Correction of Accelerated Segmented Multislice MRI
Authors: Singh Nalini , Hoffmann Malte , Adalsteinsson Elfar , Fischl Bruce , Golland* Polina , Dalca* Adrian , Frost* Robert
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate a deep learning approach for fast retrospective intraslice rigid motion correction in segmented multislice MRI. A hypernetwork uses auxiliary rigid motion parameter estimates to produce a reconstruction network based on the motion parameters that are specific to the input image. This strategy produces higher quality reconstructions than those produced by model-based techniques or by networks that do not use motion estimates. Further, this approach mitigates sensitivity to misestimation of the motion parameters.
A Deep Learning Method to Remove Motion Artifacts in Fetal MRI
Authors: Lim Adam , Lo Justin , Wagner Matthias , Ertl-Wagner Birgit , Sussman Dafna
Published: August 2024

Motion artifacts are a common issue in fetal MR imaging that limit the visibility of essential fetal anatomy. In such cases, the sequence acquisition must be repeated in order for an accurate diagnosis. This study introduces a deep learning approach utilizing a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) framework for removing motion artifacts in fetal MRIs. Results exceeded current state-of-the-art methods by achieving an average SSIM of 93.7%, and PSNR of 33.5dB. The presented network demonstrates rapid and accurate results that can be advantageous in clinical use.
A dual-stage partially interpretable neural network for joint suppression of bSSFP banding and flow artifacts in non-phase-cycled cine imaging
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Gao Juan , Tang Xin , Hu Chenxi
Published: August 2024

bSSFP cine imaging suffers from banding and flow artifacts in the region of off-resonance. Suppressing one kind of artifacts may evoke the other kind. For example, phase cycling suppresses banding artifacts, yet its acquisition at multiple frequency offsets often evokes flow artifacts. Here, we develop a partially interpretable neural network for jointly suppressing banding and flow artifacts without phase cycling. Based on a single cine image, the method generates an artifact-corrected image and a voxel-identity map, which guides the artifact suppression and improves its interpretability. Preliminary investigation shows that the method reduces banding and flow artifacts without introducing new artifacts.
Therapy of Parkinson’s Disease Related Motor and Cognitive Decline with Deep Brain Stimulation of Nucleus Accumbens
Authors: Chen Ting-Chieh , Li Ssu-Ju , Chen Kai-Yun , Lo Yu-Chun , Lin Yi-Chen , Chang Ching-Wen , Liang Yao-Wen , Cho Tsai-Yu , Wang Mu-Hua , Lin Sheng-Huang , Chen You-Yin
Published: August 2024

The progression of Parkinson′s disease (PD) is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, and deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) was found to enhance mitochondrial function. Therefore, the presented study aimed to explore the therapeutic effects of NAc-DBS on PD. In this study, the NAc-DBS treatment, behavioral tests, brain magnetic resonance imaging analysis, and mitochondrial respiratory assay were conducted on the MitoPark PD mouse model. After NAc-DBS, the PD mouse model showed improvements in motor and cognitive functions with increased functional connectivity and promoted aerobic metabolism in the dopaminergic (DA) pathways.
Nigrostriatal iron accumulation in Parkinson's disease progression
Authors: López-Aguirre Miguel , Esteban-García Noelia , Balzano Tiziano , Ciorraga María , Blesa Javier , Obeso José , Pineda-Pardo José A.
Published: August 2024

Iron has an important role in Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathophysiology. However, it is still uncertain how iron accumulates within the nigrostriatal circuit along with PD progression. Here we assessed iron content from early to moderate PD stages using R2* relaxometry, and histologically using a macaque MPTP (1-metil-4-fenil6-tetrahidropiridina) model. Our analyses revealed that in both human PD and MPTP model, iron accumulates progressively within SNpc during early stages, reaching a plateau before moderate PD. Meanwhile, iron followed a V-shaped progression in the striatum. These results will contribute to improve our understanding of nigrostriatal vulnerability and the course of neurodegeneration in PD.
Visualizing Neuromelanin in Parkinson’s disease in the presence of motion
Authors: Skorpil Mikael , Rydén Henric , Svenningsson Per , van Niekerk Adam
Published: August 2024

Neuromelanin-MRI can detect reductions in volume and intensity of the substantia nigra in Parkinson’s disease (PD). High-resolution magnetization transfer (MT) contrast T1-weighted sequences are used, and the MT pulse is time-consuming. We evaluated the degree of motion during a long (~ 12 min) scan in a PD patient and a healthy volunteer, and the effect of motion correction using a wireless RF-triggered acquisition device (WRAD) developed in our group. Despite only minor motion, for both participants, motion correction improved image quality.
Direct abdominal vein thrombus imaging (DATI): a contrast free black-blood MR technique for the diagnosis of abdominal vein thrombosis
Authors: Liao Liping , Huang Zehe , Liu Zeping , Liang Shengyuan , Qin Lei , Pan Shengzhang , Huang Lanbin , Ruan Qizeng , Sun Yi , Xie Guoxi
Published: August 2024

Abdominal vein thrombosis (AVT) is a significant cause of morbidity. Accurate diagnosis of AVT is relevant for treatment proper decision-making. CTV or MRV requires the use of contrast medium, which may lead to patient's renal failure or allergic reaction. To address this issue, we sought to develop a direct AVT imaging (DATI) technique which is free of contrast medium. The technique is based on a respiratory navigating SPACE sequence with DANTE black-blood preparation and evaluated preliminarily on 19 AVT patients at 3.0T. Experiment results show that DATI can provide definitive thrombus detection for the diagnosis of AVT.
Highly decoupled 8x2 transceiver array for human brain at 7T (Rx performance evaluation)
Authors: Kim Junghwan , Sun Changyu , Moon Chan-Hong , Hetherington Hoby , Pan Jullie
Published: August 2024

While the Tx performance of the 8x2 transceiver has been shown to achieve excellent amplitude and homogeneity, with its limited coil numbers (16), it is thought to give substantially lower SNR and acceleration in comparison to conventional arrays (8Tx/32Rx). It is recognized however, that the Tx decoupling is also constructive for Rx since the SNR and g-factors benefit from the decreased noise correlation. We evaluated the SNR, g factors, and noise covariance and found that up to an in-plane acceleration value of approximately <=4, the transceiver gives comparable performance to a commercial reference coil.
Optimized T1 and T2 Weighted Structural Imaging on Clinical 7 Tesla Systems Employing Single Channel GRAPE Universal Pulses
Authors: Pracht Eberhard , Löwen Daniel , Lamalle Laurent , Mauconduit Franck , Gras Vincent , Boulant Nicolas , Stöcker Tony
Published: August 2024

We present single channel universal GRAPE pulses for optimized T1 and T2 weighted (fluid suppressed) imaging on clinical ultra-high field systems. B0 and B1 inhomogeneities are effectively mitigated while no pulse calculations are necessary during the imaging session. Compared to a parallel transmission set-up SAR estimation is less complex, and with more established history of safe use, it makes this approach a promising tool for clinical applications such as lesion detection.
MRF-based channel-wise absolute B1+ mapping at low RF power in the human abdomen at 7T
Authors: Lutz Max , Aigner Christoph Stefan , Flassbeck Sebastian , Krüger Felix , Gatefait Constance G. F. , Schaeffter Tobias , Schmitter Sebastian
Published: August 2024

For pTx applications, knowledge of the underlying Tx channel-wise B1+ profile is essential. In this work, we present a hybrid absolute B1+-mapping approach where MRF-based B1+-mapping is utilized to map the channel-wise absolute B1+ profile, providing higher accuracy at low flip angles than standard methods. The hybrid approach is compared to mapping each Tx channel separately using the MRF-based method. Phantom and body in-vivo measurements at 7T show good agreement between the two approaches.
First QSM of an ex vivo human brain on the Iseult 11.7T whole-body system using parallel transmission and virtual coil reconstruction
Authors: Santin Mathieu , Plu Isabelle , Gras Vincent , Luong Michel , Chazel Edouard , Mauconduit Franck , Amadon Alexis , Vignaud Alexandre , Lerman Cecile , Boulant Nicolas
Published: August 2024

This work presents the first QSM images obtained on the 11.7T whole body Iseult system, using tailored parallel transmission kT-point pulses and a virtual coil approach for coil combination, on a post mortem brain.
An Optimized RF Coil for Sensitive 31P Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging of the Human Brain and Cerebellum at 7T.
Authors: Hovagimian Johnny Der , Yazdanbakhsh Pedram , Couch Marcus , Rudko David
Published: August 2024

An optimized RF coil was constructed for 7T, Phosphorus (31P) Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging (MRSI) of the whole brain including the cerebellum. The cerebellum is a region not well covered by most existing 31P coils. The design consisted of an optimized 16-rung high-pass birdcage transmit coil and a 24-channel phased array receive coil affixed to a custom head-shaped former. The coil provided high sensitivity to 31P signals across the whole brain and brainstem. In vivo 31P 3D CSI experiments showed high quality spectra with regional PCr SNR values near the cerebellum comparable to values near the brain centre.
Accelerated 3D Stack-of-Spiral Cardiac Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping: Noninvasive Measurement of Heart Oxygenation in a Breath-Hold
Authors: Li Jiahao , Villar-Calle Pablo , Agoglia Hannah , Liberman Nicole , Nguyen Thanh , Wang Yi , Kim Jiwon , Weinsaft Jonathan , Spincemaille Pascal
Published: August 2024

A breath-holding non-cardiac gated 3D stack-of-spiral data acquisition scheme was developed to continuously sample the data for cardiac quantitative susceptibility mapping. Compared to the previously proposed navigator-based prospective Cartesian acquisition, the accelerated spiral sequence can be done within 20 seconds breath-holds, leading to over a 20-fold reduction in scan time. The spiral QSM as well as the navigator QSM were performed on cohorts of healthy volunteers and COVID-19 survivors, showing well aligned quantification results on the differential blood oxygenation between the right and left heart.
Fractal Analysis in Cardiovascular MR: Prognostic Value of Biventricular Trabecular Complexity in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jiang Wen-yi , Chen Weibo , Zhou Yan , Zhao Lei , Wu Lian-Ming
Published: August 2024

Trabecular complexity of left and right ventricles can be quantified as fractal dimension (FD), a number between 1 to 2, by fractal analysis on short axis cine images of cardiovascular magnetic resonance. We found that biventricular FDs provide significant prognostic value for sudden cardiac death and composited adverse events including rehospitalization due to heart failure in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). LV maximal apical FD and RV global FD are independent prognostic factors in HCM. In addition, they provide incremental prognostic value to the conventional predictors including European Society of Cardiology predictors and late gadolinium enhancement percentage.
Post-ablation Changes in Left Atrial Hemodynamics and Volume in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Dushfunian David , Maroun Anthony , Baraboo Justin , Pradella Maurice , Lee Daniel , Greenland Philip , Passman Rod , Kim Daniel , Markl Michael
Published: August 2024

Atrial fibrillation (AF) leads to detrimental changes in the left atrial (LA) and left atrial appendage’s (LAA) hemodynamics and volumes. When indicated, AF ablation is used to reduce AF burden. We recruited 17 post-ablation patients, 10 of whom had no documented AF recurrences. 4D flow MRI was acquired, immediately before and 6-12months after ablation, and quantified for LA and LAA stasis, volume, and peak velocities. Our findings support the notion that restoration of sinus rhythm corrects the deleterious changes of AF.
Alteration of sacroiliac fatty acids composition in axial spondyloarthritis: analysis using 3.0 T chemical shift-encoded MRI
Authors: Chen Min , Cheng Chuanli , Zou Chao , Cheng Guanxun
Published: August 2024

Changes of bone marrow fatty acids (FAs) composition have been detected in several inflammatory and metabolic diseases by MRI. However, the alteration of sacroiliac FAs composition in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) remains unknown. We observed changes of bone marrow FAs composition of the sacroiliac joint in patients with axSpA compared to controls using chemical shift-encoded MRI (CSE-MRI). The changes differed between areas with fat metaplasia and areas without fat metaplasia in axSpA. Our results indicated bone marrow FAs including saturated FA, mono-unsaturated FA and poly-unsaturated FA may play different roles in the pathogenesis of axSpA.
Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Diffusion-weighted MR Imaging and IDEAL-IQ for Assessment of Treatment Response in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Tang Yanhua , Wang Li , Ma Yichen
Published: August 2024

This study explored the feasibility of IVIM DWI and IDEAL-IQ parameters in evaluating the treatment response of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who received systemic treatment within 6 months. The results showed that within 6 months after treatment, the changes of D and f values of IVIM DWI in deep-responders before and after treatment were significantly different from those in non-deep responders. This indicates that the changes of D and f values of IVIM DWI may be helpful to evaluate the short-term (within 6 months) therapeutic response of myeloma, while the evaluation of IDEAL-IQ on short-term therapeutic response needs further study.
Preoperative assessment of vessels encapsulating tumor clusters (VETC) in hepatocellular carcinoma using IVIM diffusion-weighted imaging
Authors: Li Chenhui , Xie Jinhuan , Long Liling , Zhang Huiting , Song Yang
Published: August 2024

Vessels encapsulating tumor clusters (VETC) is a powerful predictor of a poor prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, preoperative radiologic prediction of these histopathological results can allow optimized management of HCC and help improve long-term survival for patients. However,to our knowledge, no published studies have investigated preoperative VETC patten of HCC using IVIM parameters and comparing with DWI. Our study indicated that IVIM-derived D* provides a non-invasive analytical approach for preoperative predicting VETC of HCC. ADC value were not predictive for VETC.
Clinical assessment of noise corrected exponentially weighted diffusion weighted MRI (niceDWI) for imaging patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: Knill Annemarie , Blackledge Matthew , Winfield Jessica , Barnsley Hannah , Malawo Benjamin , Hopkinson Georgina , Koh Dow-Mu , Withey Samuel , Messiou Christina
Published: August 2024

Systematic clinical validation of noise-corrected, exponentially-weighted, diffusion-weighted MRI (niceDWI) is performed in metastatic melanoma including soft tissue disease. Previous assessments of niceDWI demonstrated improvement in the in-plane bias field. No clinical advantage is found over clinical DWI: the signal-to-noise ratio was assessed as significantly worse in niceDWI both quantitatively and by an experienced reader; there was no difference demonstrated in the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of bone or nodal lesions; when soft tissue disease is included CNR is significantly worse on niceDWI. It is recommended that future evaluations of niceDWI assess the maximum intensity projection for use as a survey tool.
Evaluation of Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging in Predicton of Tumor Budding Grade in Rectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Yue , Chen Anliang , Xie Lizhi , Liu Ailian
Published: August 2024

This study used diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) to predict the tumor budding (TB) grade in rectal cancer. The results showed that the parameters MK, MD and their combination parameter both perform great diagnostic efficiency. DKI could noninvasively predict TB grade of rectal cancer, which is an important prognostic information, and has important guiding significance for clinical treatment.
Longitudinal study investigation of CMR measures and cardiac allograft vasculopathy over time
Authors: Quinn Sandra , Sanchez Chantelle , Kilinc Ozden , Lin Kai , Ghafourian Kambiz , Lee Daniel , Vorovich Esther , Yancy Clyde , Rigolin Vera , Lomasney Jon , Allen Bradley , Carr James , Markl Michael
Published: August 2024

CAV is a leading cause of mortality in HTx patients. Diagnosis and grading of CAV is dependent on repeated ICA which carries risk of major complications. CMR has the potential to be useful in CAV surveillance without the risk of ICA. This study has demonstrated that in a group of long-term heart transplant patients with evidence of CAV progression who undergo serial CMR and ICA within a close timeframe, 2D global peak strain parameters and 2D systolic strain rate correlates with CAV severity grade. FTS may therefore prove useful for surveillance of patients for CAV.
Diffusion Weighted-Viscosity Imaging for Atherosclerotic Plaques
Authors: Seguchi Mayuka , Kanazawa Yuki , Miyati Tosiaki , Harada Masafumi , Miyoshi Mitsuharu , Matsumoto Yuki , Hayashi Hiroaki , Kanematsu Yasuhisa , Takagi Yasushi
Published: August 2024

We developed a Dw-viscosity imaging method to identify atherosclerotic plaques. First, we conducted experiments to determine ADC and viscosity changes of four different concentrations of glycerin solution, and determined the viscosity model. Second, a clinical study was carried out, and Dw-viscosity imaging was performed. As a result, we found that there was a significant difference between with and without hemorrhage findings (P < 0.01). Dw-viscosity imaging enables us to obtain more detailed information about atherosclerotic plaques such as intraplaque hemorrhage.
Vertical Dynamic Pressure: a promising biomarker for describing inflammation in intracranial aneurysm
Authors: Wei Haining , Fu Mingzhu , Tang Yudi , Liu Peng , Li Rui
Published: August 2024

Increasing histopathological evidence suggested that the inflammation processes and hemodynamics in vessel wall may mediate the growth and rupture of IA. For hemodynamics, previous studies reported that lower wall shear stress (WSS) is the most highlighted parameter associated with inflammation. Some studies also explored the dynamic pressure distribution at the sites of aneurysms based on computational fluid dynamics. Vertical dynamic pressure(VDP) can be seen as a possible measure for the force of the fluid impinging on the vessel wall. In this study, we propose to investigate the correlation of two hemodynamic parameters(WSS, VDP) with inflammation by advanced MRI techniques.
Disruptions in Functional Connectivity in Pre-manifest Huntington Disease: A Data-Driven, Whole-Brain fMRI Study
Authors: Laganiere Simon , Halko Mark , Sierra Luis , Ullman Clementina , Hildebrand Karen , Mwangi Magdaline , Dierker Julia , Frank Samuel , Toal Kaitlin , Anteraper Sheeba
Published: August 2024

Huntington disease (HD) is a progressive, autosomal dominant disease caused by a pathological expansion of CAG repeats in the HTT gene1,2. A clinical diagnosis of HD is made at the appearance of unequivocal motor signs. However, in the “premanifest” stage, due to slowly progressive neurodegenerative changes1,2, subtle motor, psychiatric and cognitive decline occurs many years prior to diagnosis3. The sequelae of neural circuit dysfunction remains unclear. Improving our mechanistic understanding of functional brain connectivity alterations prior to disease manifestation will help identify sensitive biomarkers of disease progression1,4–6. Data-driven analysis of high-quality functional magnetic resonance imaging data will guide such efforts.
Reduction of GABA in the visual cortex of glaucoma patients is linked to decreased neural specificity.
Authors: Bang Ji Won , Parra Carlos , Yu Kevin , Wollstein Gadi , Schuman Joel , Chan Kevin
Published: August 2024

Glaucoma is an age-related neurodegenerative disease of the visual system. Although increasing number of studies indicated its widespread involvements of the eye and the brain, very little is known about the underlying metabolic mechanisms. Thus, here we investigated the GABAergic and glutamatergic systems in the visual cortex of glaucoma patients, as well as neural specificity. Our study demonstrated that glaucoma is accompanied by the reduction of GABA and glutamate in the visual cortex. Further, the reduction of GABA but not glutamate predicted neural specificity. This suggests that GABA loss in the visual cortex degrades the neural specificity in glaucoma.
Remote neurodegeneration in a rat contusion spinal cord injury model: a combined MRI and histological study
Authors: David Gergely , Motovylyak Alice , Schlegel Felix , Kovacs Zsofia , Budde Matthew , Kündig Christian , Klohs Jan , Freund Patrick
Published: August 2024

MRI has been widely used to investigate the structural damage after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). While most small animal studies have focused on the injury site, remote SCI-related damage along the neuraxis has received less attention. Here, we demonstrate that ex vivo diffusion MRI and cross-sectional area measurements are sensitive to remote neurodegeneration in a rat contusion SCI model, showing gray matter and dorsal column atrophy alongside decreased fractional anisotropy in the dorsal columns several spinal levels rostral to the injury epicenter. Imaging findings were consistent with SMI32 immunohistochemistry with axonal degeneration mostly concentrated in the dorsal column.
Feasibility of MUSE DTI in differentiation of spinal cord injury severity in cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Authors: Shao Haoyue , Tang Xiangyu , liu Qiufeng , Liu Weiyin
Published: August 2024

MUSE (Multiplexed Sensitivity-Encoding) is a novel diffusion weighted imaging with 2 to 3-excitations, phase acquisition step reduction, to achieve high-resolution diffusion imaging, higher signal-to-noise ratio, fewer motion artifacts and magnetic field inhomogeneities. In this study, we applied MUSE-based diffusion tensor imaging to investigate the compression-caused microstructure changes in the spinal cord of each subject. Our results suggested that MUSE-DTI computed parameters (Trace, FA, ADC) have dependable diagnostic values in detecting CSM (cervical spondylotic myelopathy) and that the ADC value is the best indicator of spinal cord compression.
Does spinal CSF perfuse out of the spine?
Authors: Vucevic Diana , Malis Vadim , Bae Won , Miyazaki Mitsue
Published: August 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) perfusion in the spinal canal is one of the greatest mysteries in the scientific community. CSF can be imaged without the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCA) using our novel spin-labelling MRI technique at 3 Tesla. Perfusion of CSF in the spine can be seen in the thoraco-lumber region from the nerve roots. This CSF outflow may be absorbed by the venous plexus along the dorsal nerve roots. The second pathway It may be from the nerve roots, recirculated to lymphatic tissue and into the thoracic duct.
Radiomic Analyses of the Instrumented Spinal Cord After Treatment for Degenerative Myelopathy and Acute Cord Injuries
Authors: Sharafi Azadeh , Klein Andrew , Koch Kevin M
Published: August 2024

Quantitative MRI of the spinal cord can provide insightful information about injured or degenerated cord tissue. However, the presence of instrumentation used treat such conditions can compromise the ability to perform such analyses. In this preliminary study, first and second-order radiomics features were computed across axial segmented spinal cord in subjects with 1) degenerative cervical myelopathy and 2) spinal cord injury patients treated with spinal fusion. Radiomics were computed using T1 and T2 weighted metal-artifact suppressed 3D-MSI and analyzed and successfully utilized to model local fusion status within the clinical cohorts and also against non-instrumented control subjects.
Spinal cord fMRI to investigate the Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) patients
Authors: Fratini Michela , Giovannelli Lorenzo , Maugeri Laura , Di Nuzzo Mauro , Moraschi Marta , Guidi Maria , Mascali Daniele , Egidi Irene , Giove Federico
Published: August 2024

We have studied Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) patients group with spinal cord fMRI during a multilevel force grip motor task. We demostrated the possibility to use spinal cord fMRI as a biomarker for clinical application.
Evaluation of the Glymphatic System Using the DTI-ALPS Index in Patients with Glioma
Authors: Zhang Chao , Li Ruohan , Sha Jingyun , Cai Lulu , Wu Peng , Xu Kai
Published: August 2024

We evaluated the function of the human glymphatic system (GS) in patients with glioma using diffusion tensor imaging analysis along with the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS). Thirty-seven patients with glioma and 34 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited for analysis. We found that DTI-ALPS index on the ipsilateral lesion side was significantly decreased, but not on the contralateral side in glioma when compared with HCs. The decreased DTI-ALPS index was significantly correlated with the volume of peritumoral edema (PTBE), but not the volume of tumor. This study suggested the PTBE may be an independent factor that affects the GS in glioma patients.
On the estimation of age-related volumetric brain changes using ultra-low-field MR images
Authors: Hsu Peter , Sodickson Daniel , Chandarana Hersh , Fogarty Justin , Johnson Patricia , Veraart Jelle
Published: August 2024

The high cost of clinical MRI has severely limited its accessibility in many regions. Ultra-low-field (ULF) MRI systems have been developed to address this issue, providing diagnostic imaging at a significantly lower cost. However, computational tools that are used for clinical scans are often not applicable to ULF images which suffer from both SNR and resolution loss. Here, we compare two approaches for improving the resolution of ULF images and two techniques for extracting volumetric information from each approach. We show that given effective post-processing, ULF images can capture expected age-related volumetric changes in the brain.
Point-of-Care Knee MRI at 0.064T: Expanded Evaluation and Initial Comparison with Clinical Knee MRI at 3T
Authors: Watchmaker Jennifer , Xia Ding , Corcuera-Solano Idoia , Dayan Etan , Ngeow Justin , Liu Fang , Fayad Zahi , Huang Mingqian , Feng Li
Published: August 2024

At last year’s ISMRM, a pioneering work was presented to demonstrate the initial feasibility and performance of point-of-care knee MRI at 0.064T using a Hyperfine Swoop portable MRI scanner. This work extended that study for further evaluation in an expanded cohort of healthy subjects and subjects with knee pathology, and compare low-field imaging with clinical 3 Tesla imaging in a subset of volunteers.
Clinical application of MULTIPLEX as a rapid multi-parametric brain imaging method in early Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Fu Tong , Pan Rongrong , Tian Youyong , Gao Qing , Wu Xinying , Liu Lindong , Lin Hai , Dai Yongming
Published: August 2024

Quantitative MRI can measure a variety of physiological tissue parameters, such as longitudinal T1 value, transverse T2 value and proton density, iron content and fat content. We tried to apply a multi-parametric MR imaging technique of MULTIPLEX that provides the maps of T1, T2*, proton density and quantitative susceptibility mapping into the diagnosis of early Parkinson’s disease (PD). We found that MULTIPLEX could provide comprehensive and quantitative assessment of Parkinson’s disease-related subcortical nucleus and dopaminergic midbrain regions captured in multiple MR imaging parameters, which might assist in the diagnosis and better understanding of early Parkinson’s disease under tight clinical time-constraints.
3D whole-heart free-breathing joint T1/T2 mapping with isotropic resolution in a hybrid PET-MR system for cardiac sarcoidosis
Authors: Schneider Alina , Crabb Michael , Velasco Carlos , Kunze Karl , Neji Radhouene , Botnar René , Prieto Claudia
Published: August 2024

Simultaneously acquired 18F-FDG PET-MR imaging and quantitative 2D T1 and T2 mapping have been suggested for improved diagnostic accuracy of cardiac sarcoidosis, however misregistration between imaging modalities and sequential MR scans makes clinical interpretation challenging. Here we evaluate the feasibility of recently proposed 3D joint T1/T2 sequence at a 3T PET-MR system. This approach enables non-rigid motion-correction for both the 3D T1/T2 mapping and the PET data to the same respiratory position, resulting in aligned volumes for improved clinical interpretation. In this proof-of-concept study, we tested our approach in a phantom and two healthy subjects.
Comparison of synthesized and acquired high b-value diffusion-weighted MRI for detection of prostate cancer
Authors: Kallis Karoline , Conlin Christopher , Hussain Troy , Zhong Allison , Do Deoandre , Lui Asona , Karunamuni Roshan , Kuperman Joshua , Hahn Michael , Rakow-Penner Rebecca , Chatterjee Aritrick , Oto Aytekin , Karczmar Gregory , Dale Anders , Seibert Tyler
Published: August 2024

High b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) plays an important role for accurate detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). Synthesizing high b-value images decreases scan time. We compared (normalized) acquired and synthesized high b-value (2000s/mm2) DWI for detection of csPCa in 151 patients who underwent MRI and biopsy. We also compared these to an advanced DWI biomarker called the Restriction Spectrum Imaging restriction score (RSIrs). Synthesized images yielded similar results to acquired images within the prostate but failed to accurately represent the surrounding pelvic tissue. RSIrs was superior to synthesized and acquired high b-value DWI for detection of csPCa.
High resolution rotating frame relaxation mapping with T-NORDIC
Authors: Ponticorvo Sara , Canna Antonietta , Moeller Steen , Akcakaya Mehmet , Metzger Gregory , Michaeli Shalom , Mangia Silvia
Published: August 2024

Current whole-brain implementations of rotating frame relaxation (RFR) mapping are generally limited to moderate spatial resolutions due to acquisition time limitations. We propose using transform domain NORDIC, T-NORDIC, to increase the quality of RFR maps at both moderate and high spatial resolution. The results show clear improvements in terms of fitting reliability for estimation of adiabatic T1ρ and T2ρ, and especially Relaxation Along a Fictitious Field in rotating frame of rank n=4 (RAFF4) after applying NORDIC denoising. The improvements in map quality can be leveraged to reduce acquisition times in clinical applications.
Deep Learning Based Reconstruction for Multi-shot DWI of the Breast: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Chien Ning , Yeh Cheng-Ya , Chen Yi-Chen , Chang Yeun-Chung , Li Chia-Wei , Lin Chien-Yuan , Lan Patricia , Wang Xinzeng , Guidon Arnaud , Liu Kao-Lang
Published: August 2024

Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in the breast is limited by image distortion, which can be improved with multi-shot DWI (MUSE). We conducted a pilot study to investigate the impact of deep-learning reconstruction (DLRecon) on MUSE image quality. Compared with the non-DL MUSE images, the MUSE DLRecon showed higher SNR without altering the mean ADC value. Moreover, the higher shots MUSE DL with reduced NEX could provide less-distortion DWI with comparable SNR and scan time to 2-shot MUSE imaging, which is commonly used in the clinical setting. Preliminary results indicate the feasibility of MUSE-DWI in the breast with higher number of shots.
A Fully Automatic Data Processing Method for MRI T2* Relaxometry of Iron Loaded Liver
Authors: Lian Zifeng , Lu Qiqi , Feng Yanqiu
Published: August 2024

MRI T2* relaxometry is a reliable method for assessing liver iron overload. To develop a fully automatic T2* relaxometry data processing method for assessing liver iron overload, we promoted a semi-automatic parenchyma extraction to an automatic approach by introducing a modified TransUNet on R2* map for the segmentation of whole liver. The proposed method showed excellent liver segmentation performance on the internal and external test sets and yielded T2* measurements highly consistent with those by the semi-automatic method. This fully automatic approach will enable an efficient and reliable measurement of liver T2* for assessing hepatic iron content in clinical practice.
Radiomic signature based on enhanced CT and 3T MRI for survival analysis in patients with esophageal squamous carcinoma
Authors: Li Dexuan , Wang Chenglong , Chu Funing , Qu Jinrong , Song Yang , Yang Guang
Published: August 2024

We enrolled 478 patients with esophageal squamous carcinoma (ESCC) split them into a training and a test cohort with a ratio of 7 to 3. Radiomic features were extracted from lesions on both MR and CT images and used to build models for predicting disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). For both MR and CT images, the radiomic signature combined with clinical variables achieved performance comparable to radiological signature. Over the test cohort, MRI-based models achieved C-index values of 0.707 and 0.663 for DFS and OS predictions, respectively; CT-based models achieved 0.731 and 0.68 for DFS and OS, respectively.
R2* and ADC values in differentiating endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer from ovarian cancer
Authors: Li Ye , Liu Ailian , Wang Jiazheng
Published: August 2024

A total of 9 lesions from 7 EAOC patients and 21 lesions from 19 OC patients were collected to compare the differences in R2* and ADC values between the EAOC and OC groups. The results showed that the ADC values were able to discriminate between the two and there was no difference in R2* values.
Contrast-enhanced MRA with GRASP outperforms the conventional TWIST in aortic dissection patient cohort
Authors: Calastra Camilla , Haupt Fabian , Kleban Elena , Huber Adrian , Becker Daniel , Kobligk Hendrik von-Tengg , Jung Bernd
Published: August 2024

This work compares the application of two magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) sequences on an aortic dissection patient cohort: the conventional cartesian-sampling-based, TWIST sequence, and the new radial-sampling-based GRASP sequence. The 1.5T MRA data from six patients with aortic dissection were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively to investigate overall image quality and spatial and temporal blurring. GRASP outperformed TWIST in temporal SNR, vessel sharpness and reduction in image blurring; streaking artifacts were clearly visible, but did not affect the diagnostic image quality.
Efficiency of 3D ky-kz centric acquisition in whole heart coronary MRA (WHCA) using high resolution deep learning reconstruction (HR-DLR)
Authors: Morita Yoshiaki , Ota Hideki , Nishina Takashi , Tanaka Sho , Yamashita Yuichi , Kassai Yoshimori , Mori Ryuichi , Ichinoseki Yuki , Nagasaka Tatsuo , Miyazaki Mitsue , Takase Kei , Fukuda Tetsuya
Published: August 2024

Whole heart coronary MRA (WHCA) using fast field echo (FFE) with 3D centric ky-kz trajectory was compared with conventional FFE on healthy subjects. The mean acquisition was almost within 5 minutes using a 30-mm threshold in real-time motion correction with a navigator echoes. High resolution deep learning reconstruction (HR-DLR) was also applied to improve the image quality.
Assessment of dynamic shear strain in the brain caused by mechanical transients using multi-scale MR elastography
Authors: Le Yuan , Chen Jun , Sui Yi , Rossman Phillip , Manduca Armando , Glaser Kevin , Huston John , Ehman Richard , Yin Ziying
Published: August 2024

To study how the human brain moves and deforms under a sub-injury level transient impact, we tested the feasibility of measuring in-vivo brain transient motion resulting from a small amplitude impact using the multi-scale MR Elastography technique. Transient motion was encoded by wavelet-based motion encoding gradients at two wavelet scales plus a scaling function, and displacement was calculated using the inverse Haar transform. Brain motion over a wide frequency range was detected and was found to be consistent with previous results from a much higher impact.
Predicting brain age using partition modeling strategy and Atlas-based attentional enhancement in Chinese population
Authors: Yang Yang , Huang Bingsheng , Chen Yingqian , Wu Yingtong , Lin Chuxuan , Yang Zhiyun , Liu Xia
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to develop and construct a MRI-based full-age-range brain age prediction model that can be applied in the Chinese health care system. We proposed a brain age prediction method based on transfer learning and partition modeling, which was using Atlas attention enhancement. The performance of models with different image masks were compared and the model constructed based on top60% image mask achieved the best prediction performance. The brain age prediction method proposed in this study can provide objective brain age for assessing brain health status in Chinese population.
3D mTI-ASL perfusion for differentiating 1p/19q status in IDH1-mutant lower grade gliomas
Authors: Wang Rui , Zhang Xianchang , Li Shaowu
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the feasibility of using local maximum cerebral blood flow (maxCBF) in tumor area measured with multi-inversion-time ASL (mTI-ASL) to preoperatively predict the 1p/19q status in patients with IDH1-mutant lower-grade glioma (LGG). Mann-Whitney U test showed that maxCBF in the tumor region was significantly higher in 1p/19q Non-Codeleted group than Codeleted group. ROC showed maxCBF achieved high sensitivity (0.7) and specificity (0.737) in differentiation of IDH1-mutant-LGGs with distinct 1p/19q status. This finding suggested that ASL-derived maxCBF has the potential as a tool for the noninvasive preoperative characterization of 1p/19q status, thus providing evidence for individualized treatment planning.
Perfusion and Time of Exchange Measurements Using BBB-ASL in Gliomas: The Initial Experience
Authors: Turhan Gülce , Çetin Ayşe , Mahroo Amnah , Padrela Beatriz , Kanstandin Simon , Hoinkiss Daniel , Breutigam Nora , Eickel Klaus , Petr Jan , Mutsaerts Henk , Danyeli Ayca Ersen , Ozduman Koray , Guenther Matthias , Dincer Alp , Ozturk-Isik Esin
Published: August 2024

Subtle changes in BBB integrity might be missed by contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI. Blood-brain barrier arterial spin labeling (BBB-ASL) is a new technique to assess BBB disruptions. In this work, we measured the cerebral blood flow (CBF) and exchange time (Tex) values of the tumor, normal-appearing white matter, and normal-appearing gray matter regions in gliomas using BBB-ASL technique. Our results indicated higher CBF and leakier BBB in contrast-enhanced regions of gliomas than in the normal-appearing GM.
EM shielded spiral RF coil design for array coil decoupling at ultra-low field MRI
Authors: Ha Yonghyun , Selvaganesan Kartiga , Sun Chenhao , Zhang Zhehong , Samardzija Anja , Sun Heng , Galiana Gigi , Constable Todd
Published: August 2024

We introduced a new RF coil made with Moebius cable and RF shield bowl that can be tuned with relatively low capacitance and has good isolation between the coils at low field. B1 amplitude, isolation between the coils, and SNR of the NMR signal of the proposed coil were compared with reference coils (made with copper wire and Moebius cable without an RF shield). Both bench measurements and MR experiments have demonstrated that this coil performs well as part of a low field coil array.
Improved reliability of R2* and susceptibility quantification using 3D EPI acquisition
Authors: Huang Yujia , Gelderen Peter , Chen Lin , de Zwart Jacco , Demir Zeynep , Saib Gael , Li Xu , Duyn Jeff , Liu Jiaen
Published: August 2024

The quantification of decay rate R2* and susceptibility is useful in assessment of various neurological disorders manifesting iron accumulation and myelin loss. Conventional 3D GRE acquisition is sensitive to motion and B0 fluctuation due to its long scan time. In this study, we demonstrated improved reliability of multi-shot multi-echo 3D EPI when compared to GRE, showing reduced scan time and similar accuracy.
Feasibility of pulse wave velocity measurement in pulmonary arteries from phase-resolved functional lung MRI
Authors: Wernz Marius , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Müller Robin , Zubke Maximilian , Klimeš Filip , Pöhler Gesa , Wacker Frank , Vogel-Claussen Jens
Published: August 2024

Phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI-derived flow cycles are used to calculate time differences in blood flow and thus mean velocity between the truncus pulmonalis and voxels located in main pulmonary arteries. Two U-Net-based convolutional neural networks are used to identify voxels to include in the analysis. In 26 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) the resulting pulmonary artery pulse wave velocity (paPWV) values are reproducible after two weeks. The measured velocities in COPD patients and in 30 healthy subjects are in a physiologically plausible range compared to invasive measurements.
Feasibility and clinical implementation of ultra-fast GRAPPATINI T2 mapping of the brain: A prospective study
Authors: Gruenebach Natascha , Sanner Antoine , Grauhan Nils , Mercado Mario Abello , Kronfeld Andrea , Schoeffling Vanessa , Hilbert Tom , Brockmann Marc , Othman Ahmed
Published: August 2024

We aimed to validate the clinical feasibility of the quantitative imaging MR-sequence GRAPPATINI. It offers T2 relaxometry values as well as synthetic T2-weighted images of the whole brain. 10 volunteers for the validation of repeatability and reproducebility on intra- and intersubject level and 52 patients for the morphological comparison between GRAPPATINI and standard T2-weighted sequence were included prospectively. T2 relaxation times of GRAPPATINI are robust and show only little variations among healthy subjects. Larger deviations only were found in caudate nucleus. Moreover its synthetic T2-weighted images achieve good interrater-reliability, although its subjective image quality is not equivalent to standard TSE.
Multiparametric MRI Based Habitat Imaging for Differentiating Lymph Node Metastasis in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shi Gaofeng , Wang Qi , Feng Hui , Liu Hui , Song Mengyu , Liang Xinyue , Dai Yongming
Published: August 2024

Analysis of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in lung cancer is vital for disease detection and treatment planning optimization. Multi-parametric MRI was widely used not only to characterize tumor size and anatomy, but also to assess the tissue metabolism and physiology. Conventionally, these are evaluated independently and/or are combined into an average parameter for the entire tumor, while the spatial information within the lesions was discarded. Habitat imaging allows to capture these subtle differences in tumors. In this context, a multi-parametric MRI based habitat analysis was approved to predict the LNM status.
A Machine Learning based Preoperatively Grading Rectal Method with Continue Time Random Walk DWI Model.
Authors: Geng Zhijun , Li Shaolei , Zhang Yunfei , Dai Yongming , Xie Chuanmiao
Published: August 2024

Machine learning offers a principled approach for developing automatic algorithms for analysis of high-dimensional biomedical data. The continuous-time random-walk model (CTRW) is novel non-Gaussian diffusion model that provides promising evidence indicating a possible link between voxel-level spatiotemporal diffusion heterogeneity and microscopic intravoxel tissue heterogeneity giving the model advantages in diagnosing many diseases1. In this study, we apply a machine-learning algorithm, the principal component analysis (PCA), for quantitative automatic diagnosis to grade rectal cancer using parameters from CTRW model. Our study shows that PCA has the potential to grade rectal cancer with higher accuracy than the original parameters.
Effective removal of the residual head motion artifact after motion correction in fMRI data.
Authors: Shin Wanyong , Lowe Mark
Published: August 2024

We investigate the source of residual motion artifact after volumetric motion correction using a custom MR sequence acquisition with prospectively injected motion (SIMPACE). We injected various patterns of motion during scanning ex-vivo brain phantoms at 3T to synthesize head motion in an fMRI dataset. We propose voxelwise retrospective motion regressors in addition to 6 rigid body motion parameters, then compare it with the “standard” 6 motion parameters and their derivatives regressor models. The proposed model improves tSNR by 40% and 11% in linear drift of motion and the realistic motion case, respectively, compared to 6 motion parameter model.
Fast, model-based, and navigator-free retrospective motion correction for non-Cartesian fMRI
Authors: Wang Guanhua , Guo Shouchang , Fessler Jeffrey , Noll Douglas
Published: August 2024

This abstract presents a retrospective motion correction method for fMRI. The method alternates between motion estimation and motion-informed model-based reconstruction. Compared to registration-based correction, this approach resolves intra-frame, inter-shot motion without additional navigators. The open-source GPU-based implementation enables efficient correction/reconstruction for large-scale non-Cartesian fMRI data. With prospective experiments, we demonstrate that our approach outperformed retrospective registration by providing higher-resolution images with reduced false positives in activation maps.
Optical camera calibration to implement various marker-based motion correction techniques in open geometry 0.5 T upright scanner
Authors: Bortolotti Laura , Mougin Olivier , Glover Paul , Bowtell Richard , Gowland Penny
Published: August 2024

Open MRI scanner improves patient comfort but allows movement during scanning. Hence, implementation of MoCo techniques is crucial to maximize image quality. Here, we established a method to use a standard commercial optical motion tracking set-up in an Open MRI scanner. The optical system has been calibrated to provide tracking measurements in the image reference frame. Then, a simple phantom movement was tested and corrected using NUFFT algorithm in BART.