bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging cerebrovascular structure and function in the transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lee Hansol , Mirrione Sophia , Uribe Nancy Ruiz , Huang Susie , Bennett Rachel , Yen Yi-Fen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Our previous study in humans found changes in vascular structure in AD/MCI patients but its time course and relationship to AD pathology were unknown. Goal(s): The aim of this study was to assess alterations in the structure and function of blood vessels in transgenic mouse models of AD. Approach: Litters with all four genotypes (wild-type, Aβ only, tau only, and Aβ+tau) underwent perfusion MRI and vessel size imaging as part of a longitudinal study. Results: The vessel size correlates significantly with cerebral blood volume and blood flow in the hippocampus. No group difference was found at the baseline pre-symptom stage. Impact: Success in this study, in conjunction with ex-vivo microscopy, will enhance our ability to interpret in vivo vascular imaging in people and enable us to identify individuals for vasculature-targeted therapies and evaluate how interventions may ameliorate vascular health in AD.
Exploring the Effects of Phospholipase A2 Inhibition on Brain Metabolism and Pathology in a Rat Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hiles Emily , Hatolkar Ved , Bailey Colleen , Oakden Wendy , Beckett Tina , Brown Mary , McLaurin JoAnne , Near Jamie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Current AD treatments do not improve cognitive deficits. Gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying AD may reveal new therapeutic targets. Goal(s): Previous work demonstrated elevated choline levels in a preclinical model which may implicate the PLA2 pathway in AD. We aim to explore the role of PLA2 in AD. Approach: To understand the role of PLA2 in AD, we pharmacologically inhibited PLA2 in a preclinical model of AD. Metabolic, behavioural, and pathological aspects of AD were then explored using MRS, Barnes maze, immunostaining, and RNA sequencing. Results: Preliminary data indicate PLA2 inhibition reduces choline levels and improves long-term memory formation. Impact: This work may reveal PLA2 as new therapeutic target that improves cognitive deficits in Alzheimer’s disease. By linking behaviour, pathology, and metabolic processes, this study will give a well-rounded picture of how PLA2 activity impacts AD progression.
Sex Specific changes in Glutamate and Other Neurometabolites in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: A GluCEST MRI and 1H-MRS Study
Authors: Soni Narayan Datt , Swain Anshuman , Oye-Mba Angele , Juul Halvor , Nanga Ravi Prakash Reddy , Reddy Ravinder
Published: November 2024

Motivation: It is well known that prevalence and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), is different across two sexes. Glutamate regulates various cognitive functions including learning and memory and is known to be perturbed in AD though sex specific in vivo studies are limited. Goal(s): To monitor sex-specific changes in cerebral glutamate and other neurometabolites in APPNL-F/NL-F and WT mice. Approach: Glutamate weighted Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (GluCEST) MRI and localized 1H-MRS. Results: Significant neurometabolite alterations in the hippocampus of male AD mice were observed, while females remained unaffected. This could be broadly attributed to neuroprotective effects of female reproductive hormones e.g., estrogen. Impact: Although the sex bias in AD pathology has been long known, the actual mechanism remains elusive. Results obtained from this study provides a way to further explore the factors responsible for intact regional glutamate levels in female AD mice.
Imaging of microvascular pulsatility using Fourier velocity encoding
Authors: Wong Eric , Liu Thomas , Chen Conan , Barnes Ryan , Bolar Divya
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Vascular pulsatility has been hypothesized to be an important component in the etiology of microvascular damage in dementia. There are currently no well established methods for non-invasive mapping of pulsatility at the microvascular scale. Goal(s): To provide a simple and robust means of mapping microvascular pulsatility in the brain. Approach: We use Fourier velocity encoding to measure the velocity spectrum in each voxel, with retrospective gating to the cardiac cycle, producing quantitative metrics of pulsatility. Results: Our preliminary data shows a clear modulation of microvascular flow across the cardiac cycle, with a spatial distribution that is consistent with vascular geometry. Impact: In this work we demonstrate a simple and robust method for imaging vascular pulsatility in the brain. This provides a new metric for studying the role of pulsatility in dementia, and a potential new biomarker for microvascular damage.
Cerebral Blood Flow in Midlife Obesity: Associations with Visceral and Subcutaneous Abdominal Adipose Tissue
Authors: Dolatshahi Mahsa , Commean Paul , Dai Weiying , Nguyen Caitlyn , Lloyd LaKisha , Kassani Sara Hosseinzadeh , Mittendorfer Bettina , Sirlin Claude , Benzinger Tammie , Ippolito Joseph , Morris John , Raji Cyrus
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Understanding the role of midlife obesity in Alzheimer disease (AD) risk is key to AD prevention. Goal(s): We aimed to investigate the association between obesity and abdominal visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue (VAT, and SAT) and brain perfusion, altered early in AD. Approach: For this aim, we performed brain and abdominal MRI scans to compare absolute cerebral blood flow (CBF), derived from pCASL sequence, between the obese vs. non-obese, the high- vs. low-VAT and high- vs. low-VAT groups. Results: A lower whole-brain CBF was observed in the obese vs. non-obese and high-VAT vs. low-VAT, but not between high- and low-SAT groups. Impact: Lower brain perfusion in individuals with obesity and higher VAT, especially in AD-related areas like middle temporal cortex, highlights midlife visceral obesity’s role in AD development. Future studies should explore the association of AD neuroimaging markers with body mass components.
Memory impairment in AD association with Dentate Gyrus atrophy: A pilot study using the Uniform Data Set Neuropsychological Battery and 7T MRI
Authors: Adeyemi Oluwatobi , Hari Ishani , Mougin Olivier , Gowland Penny , Bowtell Richard , Hosseini Akram
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The research study is primarily motivated by the need to understand the relationship between Alzheimer's disease (AD), hippocampal structure, and cognitive function. Goal(s): To evaluate whether the atrophy of specific hippocampal subfields correlates with cognitive decline in individuals with Alzheimer's disease?Approach: 36 participants (19 with AD) were scanned at 7T. Hippocampal sub-field volumes obtained by segmentation of high-resolution TSE images were compared to the neuropsychological test scores. Results: In AD participants, hippocampal volume correlated with memory category cue and recognition memory scores. In analysis of hippocampal subfield volumes, the dentate gyrus volume significantly correlated with recognition and cued memory scores. Impact: These findings matter because they provide crucial insights into the relationship between hippocampal subfield atrophy and cognitive decline in AD. It has the potential to improve the accuracy of diagnosis, targeted treatments, and the understanding of the neurobiology of AD.
Advanced CEST MRI processing pipeline in pilot study of Cognitively Impaired patients vs Normal Controls
Authors: Asturias Alexander , Yu Fang , Davenport Elizabeth , Kelley Brendan , Dimitrov Ivan , Keupp Jochen , Vinogradov Elena
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Alzheimer's disease(AD) presents a major public health and economic challenge, necessitating reliable early detection of biomarkers such as tau and beta-amyloid protein accumulation. Goal(s): Our primary aim was to establish a standardized neuro CEST MRI pipeline, integrating established neuroimaging tools with CEST processing, and applying it to differentiating cognitively impaired(CI) from normal control(NC). Approach: A pilot study included nine CI and three NC individuals imaged with a mDixon CEST MRI and processed with a proposed pipeline. Results: The pipeline effectively reduced erroneous signals in CEST maps and identified significant regional differences between CI and NC(p<0.05). Impact: The successful implementation of CEST-MRI in AD patients could lead to more timely interventions, guide therapeutic strategies, improve patient outcomes, and decrease the overall cost.
Topological disruption of freezing of gait in multiple system atrophy
Authors: Zhao Mengwan , Fan Guoguang , Jiang Yueluan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Functional brain network studies of freezing of gait have been extensive in PD in recent years, but are still lacking in MSA, where the disease deteriorate more rapidly. Goal(s): Investigate the disrupted topology of functional interactions in MSA-FOG. Extend our knowledge of the neurobiological basis of FOG in MSA. Approach: We constructed and analysed functional network at global, node and modular levels when compared among MSA patients with and without freezing of gait and matched healthy controls. Results: The aberrations of visual network, DAN and coupling changes between visual network and cerebellum were found in MSA-FOG compared to MSA-nFOG and HC. Impact: Different from focusing on pairwise brain regions, our study proved MSA-FOG FC alterations in the visual network and the dorsal attention network as well as coupling pattern changes between visual network the other networks at the large-scale network level.
Reliability of the compressed sensing MPRAGE for brain volume measurement: a comparison study with standard MPRAGE.
Authors: Yim Younghee , Moon Won Jin , Moon Yeonsil , Jeon Hong Jun
Published: November 2024

Motivation: T1 Magnetization Prepared Rapid Acquisition Gradient Echo (MPRAGE) with compress sensing (CS) offers high-contrast 3D images in a short time compared with standard MPRAGE. To utilize this in daily practice, comparison with existing method is essential. Goal(s): We investigated agreement of volume data obtained by NeuroQuant and test the possibility of CS-MPRAGE as an alternative method to standard-MPRAGE. Approach: We included 95 patients who underwent both CS-MPRAGE and standard-MPRAGE and compared the volume data. Results: CS-MPRAGE yields comparable volumes to standard-MPRAGE for large brain region like the entire cortex. However, small structure such as hippocampus tends to measure smaller with CS-MPRAGE. Impact: CS-MPRAGE offers high-quality 3D images and reliable volume data in significantly less time than standard-MPRAGE. This eliminates need for patients to remain still for extended periods, overcoming a major obstacle in imaging studies.
Cerebral macro- and micro-structural impairment are neuroradiological mediators for serum uric acid variance-related cognitive decline
Authors: Lv Han , Sun Jing , Wang Zhenchang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The longitudinal effects of changes in serum uric acid (SUA) levels on brain health are largely unknown. Goal(s): This study aimed to evaluate the longitudinal associations of SUA variance with neuroimaging indices and cognitive function. Approach: The multivariate-adjusted associations of SUA variance with brain MRI markers and cognitive function were examined using generalized linear models and logistic regression models. Mediation analyses were performed to assess whether brain MRI markers mediate the relationship between SUA variance and cognitive function. Results: Changes in SUA concentration, particularly elevated SUA levels damages brain health, manifested as smaller brain tissue volume, impaired microstructural integrity, and poorer cognitive performance. Impact: In conclusion, our study findings deepen the comprehension of an integrated relationship between SUA variance and neuroimaging indices of brain health. Long-term prevention of SUA fluctuation is essential for protecting brain health and preventing early-stage dementia.
Assessing cerebrovascular integrity with hypercapnia and a joint CBF and BOLD sequence (M2-PCASL): a comparison of healthy young and old cohorts.
Authors: Todd Jody , Mateos Maria-Julieta , Lah James , Qiu Deqiang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cerebrovascular disruptions are associated with Alzheimer’s Dementia and can precede cognitive decline; therefore, studying the progression of cerebrovascular dysfunction in healthy aging versus cognitive decline is a promising opportunity for early therapeutic interventions. Goal(s): In this study, we aimed to determine if there were differences in cerebrovascular health metrics between young and old healthy cohorts. Approach: Using a novel MR pulse sequence, we quantified cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), resting state blood-oxygen level dependent signal (BOLD), and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in both cohorts. Results: We found an age-dependent decrease in CBF and BOLD CVR. Impact: Age related changes in cerebrovascular health metrics assessed by quantitative MRI methods can help us characterize differences between healthy aging and cognitive decline thus offering unique opportunities for early therapeutic interventions in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's dementia.
Comparison at 7T of the Impulse head gradient and whole-body SC72 gradient transfer functions.
Authors: Le Ster Caroline , Mauconduit Franck , Vu An T. , Feizollah Sajjad , Tardif Christine , Beckett Alexander , Feinberg David , Boulant Nicolas
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Ultra-high field MRI requires high performance and accurate gradients to push forward the spatio-temporal resolution, especially for fMRI scans. Goal(s): Compare two commercial gradient coils (whole-body SC72 and head-only Impulse) available on 7T scanners. Approach: Characterization of the gradient transfer function (GTF) and measurement of field perturbations following a spoiler gradient using a field camera. Results: The Impulse gradient coil revealed a smooth GTF profile while the SC72 gradient coil exhibited strong resonances. Field oscillations following a spoiler gradient were greatly reduced with the Impulse gradient. Disconnecting the 3rd order shim coils on the SC72 gradient coil improved the quality of its response. Impact: The GTF of the head-only Impulse gradient coil yields interesting prospects. It remains to be determined whether the apparent benefits versus the SC72 are due to the absence of third order shim coils.
An open source tool for design and construction of Halbach array based low field magnets, passive shims and a robotic field mapper: MRI4ALL
Authors: Srinivas Sai Abitha , Boada Fernando , Ciancia Vito , Cooley Clarissa , Gruber Bernhard , Gupta Dinank , Jordanova Kalina , Purchase Aaron , Rubio Thiago , Stockmann Jason , Teleanu Florin , Zhang Chengtong , Alon Leeor
Published: November 2024

Motivation: A comprehensive open-source toolbox for both design and development of low-field MRI magnets, passive shims and a robotic field mapper can accelerate democratization of low field MRIs. Goal(s): Develop an open-source tool for optimization and construction of Halbach array magnets and passive shims. Additionally, develop and build open-source field mapper. Approach: A simple python-based workflow was used for magnet and passive shim design, and an automated CAD model export and ring former development for the optimized geometry. Results: A 43mT Halbach array was developed with our approach in a week at the MRI4ALL Hackathon. Compact passive shims improved homogeneity in simulation and measurements. Impact: We have built an easy-to-use open source framework for magnet and passive shim design for low-field MRI with a capability to extract a CAD-file for easy building. Additionally an open source field mapper is developed and is used for validation.
Towards Physics-Driven Neural-Network pTx Design with Hard Constraints
Authors: Kilic Toygan , Herrler Jürgen , Liebig Patrick , Demirel Omer , Nagel Armin , Hong Mingyi , Ugurbil Kamil , Akcakaya Mehmet
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Optimization of parallel transmission (pTx) pulse design with hard constraints on SAR will benefit from faster approaches. Goal(s): We seek to incorporate hard quadratic constraints for pTx using a physics-driven deep learning (DL) approach. Approach: We unroll an extension of the log-barrier method to enforce SAR constraints, while learning the optimal gradient step sizes using a neural network. This strategy accelerates optimization with fewer steps, while not sacrificing performance. Results: Preliminary results show that our method is faster than traditional techniques like CVXPY with similar performance. Impact: Our proposed method reduces the time-consuming optimization used in conventional pTx and may lead to improvements especially for real-time UHF applications.
Time-shifted multiband construction of wideband pulses
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Rodgers Christopher
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Adiabatic pulses are popular for wideband inversion or refocusing, but limited by SAR in high-field. Conventional modulated pulses are limited in bandwidth by peak voltage requirements. Goal(s): Develop an intuitive wideband pulse design method compatible with limited peak voltage for ultra-high field applications. Approach: We construct a “multiband” pulse covering the desired bandwidth. We use time-shifting to reduce the peak voltage. Results: We illustrate by designing a 4.4kHz bandwidth pulse, which has similar peak amplitude but better B1 robustness than a root-flipped SLR pulse. We use this pulse for semi-LASER MRS in a phantom, giving similar spectra to an adiabatic hypersecant pulse. Impact: We introduce a time-shifted multiband method to design wideband pulses that is fast and intuitive to construct and avoids the tradeoff between RF peak amplitude and bandwidth. These pulses are useful for inversion or refocusing in twice-refocused sequences like semi-LASER.
Optimal control pulse design: Solving low tip angle BIR-4 excitation challenges in X-nuclei spectroscopy
Authors: Graf Christina , Schweiger Martina , Rauscher Alexander , Stollberger Rudolf , Diwoky Clemens
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Adiabatic BIR-4 pulses, employed for $$$B_1^+$$$ robust spectroscopic excitation, exhibit frequency-dependent modulations in received signals, especially at low tilt angles. These modulations interfere with accurate quantitative analysis. Goal(s): The study aims to examine BIR-4 overshoots at low $$$B_1^+$$$ and introduces optimal control RF pulses to mitigate these issues. Approach: We investigate and compare BIR-4 and optimal control RF pulses in simulations, phantom experiments, and in-vivo 31P spectroscopy. Results: We show that optimal control RF pulse design is imperative for obtaining accurate quantitative data. Optimal control RF pulses have the potential to significantly improve in-vivo 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Impact: Optimal control pulses offer precise excitation, surpassing BIR-4 under low flip angles and challenging transmit conditions. This ensures a stable magnetization steady-state, vital for accurate quantitative analysis in applications such as enzymatic exchange rate measurement via magnetization transfer spectroscopy.
Adiabatic pulses for outer volume suppression in non-contrast coronary Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Authors: Arami Ayda , Tourais Joao , Božić-Iven Maša , Steeg-Henzen Christal , Lamb Hildo J. , Weingärtner Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Large field-of-views in body imaging, e.g. coronary magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), are a limiting factor for short scan times, but this can be mitigated with outer volume suppression (OVS) and high parallel imaging acceleration rates. Goal(s): Evaluate the use of adiabatic pulses for OVS in accelerated coronary MRA. Approach: Two single-band adiabatic pulses and a dual-band adiabatic (DBA) pulse were optimized in terms of stop-band flip angle and evaluated in spoiled GRE-based coronary MRA. Results: Adiabatic pulses demonstrate thorough signal suppression in stop-bands and a significant reduction of fold-over artifacts in vivo, with DBA bearing the promise of slightly improved homogeneity. Impact: Single and dual-band adiabatic pulses provide robust outer volume suppression in accelerated coronary imaging, successfully mitigating residual fold-over artifacts.
Histological validation of Quantitative Gradient Recalled Echo (qGRE) MRI as in vivo early neurodegeneration biomarker in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Tomaszewski Michal , Sukstansky Alexander , Haley Hyking , Meng Xiangjun , Miller Corey , Yablonskiy Dmitriy
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Robust methods are urgently needed for preclinical evaluation of novel Alzheimer Disease (AD) therapies to accelerate drug discovery. MRI methods hold significant promise, with quantitative Gradient Recalled Echo (qGRE) shown to provide insight into neurodegeneration in AD prior to atrophy development in humans. Goal(s): In this study a novel method is shown to non-invasively measure the longitudinal neuronal loss in the hippocampus of a mouse model of AD. Approach: Histological validation of the findings is performed. Results: A strong correlation is revealed between the MRI metric and myelin content, hence offering the explanation for the mechanism of observed contrast. Impact: A robust method for longitudinal in-vivo quantification of neuronal density loss in a mouse model of AD is presented and validated, allowing for efficient preclinical evaluation of novel AD therapeutics and accelerated drug development in the field.
The universe is asymmetric, the mouse brain too.
Authors: Rivera-Olvera Alejandro , Houwing Danielle , Ellegood Jacob , Masifi Shang , Martina Stephany , Silberfeld Andrew , Pourquie Olivier , Lerch Jason , Francks Clyde , Homberg Judith , van Heukelum Sabrina , Grandjean Joanes
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Exploring the mechanistic insights into the development of (altered) brain asymmetry in cognitive and psychiatric conditions requires the use of preclinical models. However, as asymmetry patterns are generally nuanced, even within human populations, substantial sample sizes are required to describe this phenomenon accurately. Goal(s): Our goal was to explore the presence of brain asymmetry in the mouse overcoming the sample size limitations. Approach: We leveraged a dataset encompassing MRI data from over 2000 mice. Results: We found robust brain asymmetry in the mouse, as well as asymmetry patterns that differ from those observed in humans. Impact: The mouse brain is asymmetric and there are some similarities between humans and mice, but species-specific asymmetry patterns need to be taken into account for translational research, reevaluating traditional assumptions and exploring the complexities of brain function across species.
Investigating the biomechanical properties of the aging mouse brain using an elastographic atlas
Authors: Huang Biru , Silva Rafaela Vieira da , Meyer Tom , Safraou Yasmine , Morr Anna , Infante-Duarte Carmen , Braun Jürgen , Sack Ingolf , Guo Jing
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The biomechanical signature of the aging brain and its correlation with the underlying microstructure, is poorly understood. Goal(s): To systematically analyze the global and regional biomechanical properties of the brain during aging. Approach: We investigated the in vivo biomechanical progression of the female mouse brain over an age range of 6 to 18 months using multifrequency MR elastography. Results: Highly resolved elastographic atlases of the mouse brain at different ages were generated. Global and regional analysis revealed softening and reduced viscosity as dominating patters of biomechanical changes related to the structural variations of the aging brain. Impact: This study demonstrated the use of MR elastography to track the biomechanical changes in the brains of aging healthy mice. Our study revealed softening and increased viscosity as biomechanical signature of the aging brain.
The hippocampus CA1 microcircuit is ready to join the taskforce of region-specific mean field models for a comprehensive virtual brain simulation
Authors: Lorenzi Roberta , Tesler Federico , Casellato Claudia , Palesi Fulvia , Kingshott Claudia Gandini Wheeler , Migliore Michele , Destexhe Alain , D'Angelo Egidio
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Virtual brains are proving quite successful for BOLD signal simulation but they still lack a specific mathematical description of individual brain regions. Goal(s): Our goal was to develop a specific mean field model (MF) of the hippocampus CA1 microcircuit. Approach: A bottom-up formalism recently developed for the cerebral and cerebellar cortex was adopted. It is based on a transfer function, which remaps neuronal microscale features from cellular recordings to the mean field mesoscale domain. Results: The hippocampus CA1 MF reproduced the neuronal activity of the microcircuit and captured learning mechanisms. Impact: The mean field of the hippocampus CA1 microcircuit enriches the growing collection of region-specific models. Its forthcoming integration into virtual brains together with other region-specific models has the potential to achieve a comprehensive and personalised BOLD signal dynamics simulation.
Impact of Fasting in the Brain Energy Metabolism in Mice
Authors: Patel Anant , Varadarajan K , Ramesh Akila
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Fasting is used in weight loss but its impact on brain activity is not well understood. Goal(s): To assess the impact of prolonged fasting on the excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. Approach: Infuse [1,6-13C2]glucose in mice fasted for 4h to 60h, and measure 13C labeling of brain metabolites by 1H-[13C]-NMR spectroscopy. Results: The glutamatergic neurometabolic activity was reduced in the cerebral cortex of mice fasted for 60 h. Impact: These findings can be used for modifying the fasting paradigm in different interventions involving fasting.
In vivo 13C MRS of distinct brain region in the mouse brain: how small can we go?
Authors: Sack Markus , Sartorius Alexander , Ende Gabriele , Weber-Fahr Wolfgang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Dynamic 13C MRS is a powerful tool for the investigation of brain metabolism in vivo. Due to its low SNR, it is typically constrained to big voxel sizes covering almost the whole brain in mice. Thus, making region specific research questions difficult. Goal(s): Investigating the feasibility of acquiring 13C spectra from a distinct brain region (bilateral hippocampi) in the mouse brain at 9.4T. Approach: We applied a combination of polarization transfer, a CryoProbe, frequency correction and ‘SVD denoising’ for the acquisition of 13C spectra. Results: We achieved sufficient spectral quality to quantify even small metabolite pools like GABA in the bilateral hippocampus. Impact: 13C MRS of distinct brain regions in the mouse brain paves the way for more specific research questions.
Using Time-Dependent Diffusion MRI for Microstructural Evaluation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Jiansun , Wei Yuchen , Li Chenhui , Zhao Chen , Feiweier Thorsten , Liao Jinyuan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The purpose of this study is to assess the microstructural parameters of hepatocellular carcinoma by the time-dependent diffusion MRI technique. Goal(s): Demonstrate the feasibility of TDD-MRI for evaluating hepatocellular cancer cell size with little difference from pathological verification. Approach: This prospective study will perform TDD-MRI scans for HCC patients before surgery; the cell size of tumor tissue samples obtained from surgery was measured and set as the gold standard. Results: Data of 13 patients was collected, while there was no remarkable relationship between the TDD-MRI extracted results and histological measurements. Impact: Although our results show no statistically significant for now, TDD-MRI has still got certain potential values in the application of liver tumors, while the measurement of pathological samples need to be optimized further.
Enhancing liver reserve function prediction in liver cancer through Gd-EOB-DTPA and DWI: Insights on CD34 and glypican-3 expression levels
Authors: Chen Song , Huang Lanbin , Chen Jiayuan , Huang Yuexing , Su Quanneng , Wang Mengzhu , Zhao Chen , Ruan Qizeng , Li Qingchun , Tan Mingxia , Huang Zehe
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The quantitative magnetic resonance imaging of Gd-EOB-DTPA has been employed to predict liver reserve function, tolerance, and postoperative recovery in patients with primary liver cancer. Goal(s): To investigate the relationship between quantitative parameters, liver reserve function of primary liver cancer and the expression levels of CD34 and Glypican-3. Approach: Evaluate the correlation between REHBP, ADC, liver function classification, and immune markers CD34 and Glypican-3Results: In comparison to patients with benign liver nodules, patients with primary liver cancer exhibited significantly lower REHBP and ADC values. Impact: The combination DCE-MRI with Gd-EOB-DTPA and DWI has a predictive value for liver reserve function and prognostic molecular marker expression in patients with primary liver cancer. It can also serve as a useful reference index for clinical preoperative planning.
Non-rectangular Field-of-Views: A Novel Method for Accelerating MRI
Authors: Dwork Nicholas , Englund Erin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: MRI acceleration increases the utility of the machine and increases the robustness to motion. Goal(s): In this work, we present a completely novel method to accelerate MRI. Approach: We propose to have a technologist supply a contour surrounding the patient, a non-rectangular field-of-view. We have created a method to reduce the number of samples required while maintaining high image quality for the contoured region. Results: We present results of the ankle, knee, and brain where we are able to reconstruct an image of high quality with fewer samples that could be collected with a faster scan. Impact: A non-rectangular field-of-view can better separates the patient's anatomy from the surrounding air than a rectangular field-of-view would. We present a non-iterative reconstruction algorithm that takes advantage of the non-rectangular field-of-view and reconstructs a high-quality image from fewer samples.
Improved Large-FOV Dynamic MRI at 0.55T with Concomitant Field Correction
Authors: Can Nejat , Lee Nam , Kumar Prakash , Tian Ye , Nayak Krishna
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Artifacts caused by concomitant fields are significant at lower B0 field strengths, larger distances from isocenter, and when using longer readouts. This is a significant limitation for large-FOV dynamic imaging at low- and mid- field strengths. Goal(s): To demonstrate dynamic MRI with concomitant field correction. Approach: We combine state-of-the-art dynamic MRI using undersampling and constrained reconstruction, with a concomitant field mitigation approach (MaxGIRF) that uses a higher-order encoding matrix. Results: We demonstrate significant artifact reduction in large-FOV dynamic MRI of the lung in coronal orientation at 0.55 Tesla. Impact: This work resolves one major constraint that currently limits large-FOV and off-isocenter dynamic MRI at low field strengths. This could provide better imaging of the lung, abdomen, and obese subjects, and better guidance of interventions that utilize a table shift.
Motor and Cognitive Deficits Accompanied by Progressive Microstructural and Metabolic Deterioration in a Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Chen Ting-Chieh , Li Ssu-Ju , Lo Yu-Chun , Lin Yi-Chen , Chang Ching-Wen , Liang Yao-Wen , Liu Yun-Ting , Lee Yi-Chun , Chen Kai-Yun , Chen You-Yin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The MitoPark mouse model, induced by mitochondrial dysfunction, has been confirmed to exhibit both motor and cognitive impairments resembling Parkinson's disease. However, further research is needed to delve into the mechanisms underlying these changes. Goal(s): Ｗe aimed to explore age-related changes in behavioral performances, brain microstructure, and metabolic functions in MitoPark mice. Approach: Every four weeks, a battery of tests including behavioral assessments, DTI scanning, and respiratory assays were performed on 8-week-old experimental mice. Results: MitoPark mice showed progressive degeneration in both motor and cognitive functions and impairments of microstructure and energy metabolism in dopaminergic pathways with increasing age. Impact: Progressively deteriorating mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis, impaired neural integrity, and demyelination in dopaminergic pathways in MitoPark mice may provide potential mechanisms underlying motor and non-motor deficits during the aging process of Parkinson's disease.
Loss of Neuromelanin in Parkinson’s Disease Correlates with Increased Iron Content within the Substantia Nigra
Authors: He Naying , Wang Ying , Wang Yida , Wu Peng , Zhang Youmin , Wang Xinhui , Yang Guang , Yan Fuhua , Haacke Ewart
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Neuromelanin (NM) changes with iron content in the substantia nigra (SN) could provide a better understanding of the pathophysiology of PD. Goal(s): To evaluate changes in NM volume in the SN versus iron as a means of understanding NM degeneration and iron deposition in PD. Approach: We evaluated 342 healthy controls (HCs) and 558 PD patients with two different resolution datasets (Cohort 1 and 2) using magnetization transfer contrast imaging. Results: Both datasets show HCs with reasonable stable NM volumes in SN while the PD patients show a significant iron increase in the SN with loss of NM volume. Impact: A loss of NM volume with an increase of iron within SN demonstrates the association between NM depigmentation and iron elevation in PD, which provides insight into the role of NM and iron underlying PD pathophysiology.
Quantitative N-Acetylaspartate and Creatine Metabolites in Cortical and Subcortical Regions in PD patients with cognitive impairment
Authors: Huang Ming , Yu Hui , Lv Xin , AI Kai , Cheng Yong , Gao Bo
Published: November 2024

Motivation: N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and creatine (Cr) are two brain metabolites implicated in neuronal functions. The potential role of MRS as in vivo molecular imaging biomarker is controversial. Goal(s): Quantitative the concentration of NAA and tCr of posterior cingulate gyrus (PCC) and Thalamus (Tha) in Parkinson’s disease patients with (PDCI) and without mild cognitive impairment (PDN). Approach: Single voxel 1H-MRS technology combined with Lcmodel software were used. Results: Patients with PDCI showed significantly reduced concentrations of NAA and tCr both in PCC and left Tha regions. Both in PCC and left Tha, the reduction of NAA accompanying with decreasing of tCr. Impact: Comparison of PCC and Tha MRS profiles across cognitive impairment provides useful information for tracking cognitive decline in PD progress. Cortical (via PCC) and subcortical (via Tha) NAA and tCr are promising biomarkers in characterizing PD cognitive stage deficits.
Radiomic features of substantia nigra based on multi-echo SWI susceptibility map can distinguish PD from atypical Parkinson syndrome
Authors: Cheng Weiling , Dai Jiankun , Zhou Fuqing
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The ‘swallow tail’ sign (STS) of substantia nigra (SN) on SWI can distinguish PD from healthy subjects. However, it’s difficult to differentiate PD from APS by visually inspect the STS. Goal(s): Discriminating PD from APS using the radiomic features of SN extracted from multi-echo SWI susceptibility map. Approach: 63 PD, 38 APS and 89 healthy controls were enrolled. Five classification models using radiomic features of SN were used and compared. Results: The size, shape, and texture characteristics of SN are the most important features, and the light gradient-boosting machine model (LGBM) had the best performance in identifying PD, APS, and healthy subjects. Impact: PD and APS have similar clinical syndrome but were treated differently. Our finding suggested LGBM based on radiomic features of SN can differentiate PD from APS with high accuracy. It would help the treatment selection for PD and APS patients.
Fractal Dimension as a T1 Measure for Multiparametric Investigation of Outcome Variance Following Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Schoen Devin , Deutsch Skyler , Wang Sarah , Bledsoe Ian , Ostrem Jill , Starr Philip , Wang Doris , Morrison Melanie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Improved prognostic criteria are needed to better understand outcome variance in response to DBS for Parkinson's disease. Leveraging routinely collected T1-w MRI could offer accessible predictive biomarkers. Goal(s): In 129 patients, we sought to find features derivable from preoperative T1-w images to serve as informative biomarkers to explain variance in response to DBS. Approach: Employing regional analysis and regression techniques, we examined the relationships between fractal dimension (FD), regional volumes, and post-DBS treatment responses. Results: Analysis revealed distinct, significant correlations between FD and volumes with response to DBS, indicating their potential for complementary integration in a multi-parametric predictive tool. Impact: Fractal dimension and volume, metrics derived from T1-w MRI, correlate with DBS response variance in PD patients. Integration of multi-parametric T1-w imaging features into prediction models could aid clinicians in candidate selection and treatment planning to ultimately improve patient-centric outcomes.
Denoise of Dynamic Sodium MRI imaging at 3T using MPPCA
Authors: Das Abhipsha , Lin Ying-Chia , Veraart Jelle , Qian Yongxian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Sodium MRI, a valuable imaging modality for various clinical applications, faces challenges related to signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). This study aims to enhance sodium MRI image quality through innovative denoising techniques. Goal(s): Evaluate and compare novel denoising methods to improve sodium MRI quality and diagnostic potential. Approach: The study assesses denoising techniques in sodium MRI data, utilizing a 3T clinical scanner and a unique denoising algorithm MPPCA with reduced input requirements. Evaluation metrics include residual distributions, SNR and mean-square-error comparisons. Results: MPPCA consistently outperforms other methods, showing its effectiveness in reducing noise and maintaining data fidelity. Impact: The study demonstrates the potential of MPPCA as a powerful tool for enhancing sodium imaging, with broader implications for healthcare diagnostics and research.
Decreased Degree Centrality and Regional Homogeneity after Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients with High δ-Catenin Expression
Authors: Du Wei , Xue Mingtuan , Miao Yanwei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Recent studies have shown that high expression of δ-catenin in breast cancer is often indicative of a poor prognosis. There is a lack of studies on δ-catenin and abnormal brain function. Goal(s): We hypothesized that high δ-catenin expressers have more severe brain function abnormalities. Approach: We prospectively and rigorously recruited 66 patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer who underwent BOLD fMRI scanning and image analysis before and after chemotherapy. Results: Results found that abnormal local neural synchronization in brain was more severely impaired after chemotherapy in breast cancer patients with high δ-catenin expression, compared with those with low expression. Impact: The analysis results demonstrated that high δ-catenin expression was associated with extensive localized neural synchronization and functional abnormalities after chemotherapy. This contributes to further understanding of the deeper mechanisms of δ-catenin involvement in altered brain function in breast cancer.
tDCS strengthens brain network stability and efficiency after 24-hour total sleep deprivation: a resting state fMRI study
Authors: Li Jiyuan , Yue Yunlong
Published: November 2024

Motivation: tDCS clinical expansion applicationGoal(s): Investigating the value of tDCS in brain networks returning to the "rebalance state" of total sleep deprivationApproach: A repeated-measures pre-to-post design was used. 16 healthy subjects received two 24-hour SD intervals and were randomly given True/Sham tDCS after SD. fMRI data and 2-back task testing were collected after true and sham tDCS, respectively. Observing the changes in topological properties of the whole-brain network. Results: The topological properties of the whole brain network tend to be in a "rebalanced state" after tDCS. Impact: Based on the results of this research, tDCS may be more widely applied to intervene in brain functional network disorders.
Drink more water can improve night shift performance and protect brain from sleep deprivation: a preliminary fMRI study
Authors: Qin Yue , Li Xiaoshi , Zhu Yinhu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Effective countermeasures are sought for radiologists to deal with the adverse consequences of sleep deprivation (SD). Goal(s): Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) was used to analyze changes in local brain activity after night shifts and after seven days' rest for radiologists, and to analyze whether increased water intake affected local brain activity. Approach: Amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF), fraction ALFF (fALFF) were used to characterize regional neural function. Results: Compared to seven days of rest, the ALFF and fALFF values changed in some brain regions after night shift. Impact: Increased water intake during night shifts may help radiologists cope with the adverse consequences of SD.
Reconstruction Tools for Hyperpolarized 13C MRI with the RTHawk Research Platform
Authors: Diaz Ernesto , Tang Shuyu , Bennett Anna , Lee Philip , Sahin Sule , Liu Xiaoxi , Larson Peder
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The motivation behind this project was to address critical gaps in our Hyperpolarized (HP) 13C MRI. Goal(s): The primary goal of this study was to develop and implement a set of tools and methods to support HP 13C MRI. These tools aimed to facilitate real-time data processing, improve image quality, and enable precise quantification of metabolic processes. Approach: We created the HP 13C RTHawk reconstruction toolbox. These tools included functions for data reading, gridding, coil combination, DICOM writing, B1+ and B0 calibration. Results: The RTHAWK toolbox significantly enhanced the capabilities of HP 13C MRI, empowering researchers to obtain higher-quality images. Impact: The study have far-reaching implications for scientists. By enhancing the capabilities of HP 13C MRI, the toolbox enables more precise studies. This not only broadens our understanding of but also paves the way for improved diagnostic procedures and treatment strategies.
Harnessing sparsity: Feasibility of undersampled fixed evolution time ²³Na TQTPPI FID reconstruction for optimal ²³Na TQ/SQ-signal estimation
Authors: Zehender Dominik , Reichert Simon , Zöllner Frank G. , Schad Lothar R.
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The 23Na TQ-signal is a potential biomarker for cell viability but the required phase-cycling leads to long scan times with redundant information. Goal(s): To investigate the feasibility of undersampling the fixed TQTPPI FID in the second dimension and reconstructing it by either an undersampled fit or two iterative thresholding algorithms. Approach: Investigation of the feasibility of undersampling the fixed TQTPPI FID in the second dimension and reconstructing it by either an undersampled fit or two iterative thresholding algorithms. Results: Undersampled fit successfully reconstructed data up to a 14 undersampling factor, while accuracy of the CS algorithms declined post-Nyquist-limit in both measurement and simulation. Impact: While undersampled fit was as accurate as CS algorithms in simulations and below the Nyquist-limit it showed more reliable results and outperformed the latter two on measurement data and post-Nyquist limit, suggesting that physics informed reconstruction is advantageous.
Physics model for neural network-based property estimation from multi-pathway multi-echo imaging
Authors: Adams-Tew Samuel , Powell Addison , Odéen Henrik , Parker Dennis , Cheng Cheng-Chieh , Madore Bruno , Joshi Sarang , Payne Allison
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Generation of multiple MR quantitative contrasts from an efficient multi-pathway multi-echo sequence would be highly useful for non-invasive MRgFUS breast cancer therapy assessment. Goal(s): Develop physics models that enable neural networks to accurately estimate tissue properties from multi-pathway multi-echo imaging. Approach: A Bloch solver was implemented that directly models spectroscopic and position information. Simulated signal magnitudes for a multi-pathway multi-echo sequence were used to train neural networks to estimate flip angle, T1, T2, and T2*. Results: RMS error of parameter estimates for noisy/noiseless evaluation data were 0.4/0.3° for flip angle, 40/9 ms for T1, 10/2 ms for T2, and 7/1.7 ms for T2*. Impact: Multi-pathway multi-echo imaging with machine learning-based MR parameter estimation shows promise in rapidly collecting quantitative data for evaluation of breast cancer treatment. The implemented Bloch solver enables versatile simulation of biological tissues through direct modeling of spectroscopic and position information.
Adaptive threshold selection for compressed sensing reconstruction
Authors: Lian Yuan , Guo Hua
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The reconstruction quality of CS-MRI is significantly affected by the selection of shrinkage threshold. Goal(s): Find a self-adaptive threshold for every iteration, every slice and every wavelet sub-band in compressed sensing reconstruction. Approach: We propose an adaptive threshold selection method by combining an bayes-based adaptive wavelet shrinkage denoising method with compressed sensing reconstruction. Results: Our threshold based on the coefficients in sparse transform domain has a better reconstruction performance compared with an optimal fixed threshold. Impact: We propose an adaptive threshold selection method for compressed sensing reconstruction, which promote the reconstruction quality and avoid the manual selection of parameter.
High Resolution MRI Protocol for Ovarian Cancer Screening
Authors: Batasin Summer Joyce , Yu Hon , Ebrahimi Sheida , Loubrie Stephane , Conlin Christopher , Truong Thien , Hill Breana , McHale Michael , Santillan Cynthia , Rakow-Penner Rebecca
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Addressing the critical need for improved ovarian cancer detection, given its high mortality rate and limited screening options. Goal(s): Explore diffusion properties of normal ovaries and lesions at high b-values (>1000 s/mm2 to develop a high-resolution ovarian cancer screening (OCS) protocol for average and high-risk individuals. Approach: Utilized multishell diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) with simultaneous multi-slice excitation (Multiband) to capture high-resolution images in healthy, high-risk BRCA 1/2, and patients with potential cancer based on prior imaging. Results: Distinct abnormal lesion types exhibited distinct contrasts at high b-values, with normal ovaries showing no signal, as expected. Impact: Preliminary ovarian cancer MRI results with multishell DWI with Multiband, show promise in a new screening tool for ovarian cancer screening. This marks a significant step toward non-invasive screening advancements for high-risk individuals and early detection strategies.