bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tongue Deformation and Strain Estimation using Tagged RT-MRI and Optical Flow
Authors: Tian Ye , Chen Weiyi , Byrd Dani , Narayanan Shrikanth , Nayak Krishna
Published: August 2023

Real-time MRI plays an important role in studying articulator movements during typical and atypical human speech. Recently, real-time tagging methods were developed to reveal inner tongue movements, including deformations in the body of the tongue that were previously unobservable. Here, we demonstrate tracking of tongue deformations and estimation of tongue strain from real-time tagging, using a motion-compensated total generalized variation reconstruction and optical flow. Optical flow tracking has an averaged error of 1.10±0.83mm, compared with manually tracked tagged line intersections, while intra-observer variability is 0.80±0.49mm. The estimated tongue deformation and strain maps provide for linguistically sensible interpretation.
R1rho Dispersion in Lumbar Muscles
Authors: Rivera-Garcia Alan , Turner Jay , Uribe Juan , Dortch Richard , Gore John , Wang Ping
Published: August 2023

R1rho imaging can provide novel information on dynamic processes within tissues, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the parameters of chemical exchange and/or intrinsic microstructure. We measured the dispersion of R1rho with different locking fields in the major lumbar muscles of psoas, paraspinal muscles (multifidus and erector spinae), and quadratus lumborum. The results showed that R1rho dispersion is significant and measurable at 3T which may provide a new way to characterize muscles involved in low back pain.
Tracking acute & chronic RT-induced fibrosis in cervical cancer using native & Late-Gadolinium-Enhancement Short-Inversion-Time (STIR) UTE
Authors: Sheikh Khadija , Lee Junghoon , Morcos Marc , Rezae Mohammad , Seethamraju Ravi , Benkert Thomas , Bhat Himanshu , Halperin Henry , Daniel Bruce , Viswanathan Akila , Schmidt Ehud
Published: August 2023

Imaging the temporal evolution of post-radiation fibrosis, which forms in irradiated tissues, supports quantifying tumor response and estimating surrounding-tissue injury. Five cervical cancer patients were scanned pre-external-beam-radiotherapy (EBRT), during and after EBRT, and 3-months post-EBRT and High-Dose-Rate (HDR) brachytherapy. A novel stack-of-spirals STIR-UTE sequence (TI=60ms) was used to image acute-fibrosis, utilizing collagen-bound-water’s short T2* and T1, and Late-Gadolinium-Enhancement (11-15min post-contrast) IR-UTE sequence (TI=200ms) to image chronic-fibrosis, utilizing scar’s slow-contrast-perfusion. Acute-fibrosis spatial-distribution followed EBRT and brachytherapy dose distributions. Over time, acute-fibrosis was converted into chronic-fibrosis. This is important as it forms the basis to guide radiation-therapy for re-irradiation and adaptive-planning.
Dynamic Spiral Imaging of Rodent Pulmonary Ventilation using Natural-Abundance Hyperpolarized 129Xe Imaging
Authors: Loza Luis , Achekzai Tahmina , Kadlecek Stephen , Hamedani Hooman , Amzajerdian Faraz , Ismail Mostafa , Duncan Ian , Ruppert Kai , Rizi Rahim
Published: August 2023

While a hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI-derived fractional ventilation is a valuable metric for assessing lung function, currently implemented schemes use enriched xenon and rely on static images acquired over breath holds to derive FV. In order to probe pulmonary ventilation under more physiologically natural conditions while keeping costs low, we acquired images during continuous controlled breathing in a mechanically ventilated rat using natural-abundance xenon. In addition to FV, we were able to derive the additional physiologically relevant metrics of tidal volume, functional residual capacity, and phase.
The relationship of arterial input function between abdominal aorta and hepatic artery
Authors: Huang Jie , Liu Yuancheng , Zeng Xianchun , Qian Chunqi , Shapiro Erik
Published: August 2023

The hepatic artery (HA) input is required in the dual-input, two-compartment model of studying liver function with dynamic gadoxetate-enhanced MRI. The dynamic contrast agent concentration in abdominal aorta (AA) is usually measured and used as the arterial input function instead of that measured in the HA because its small size. In this study, we determined the relationship between these two concentrations. We found that the measured arterial input function in AA can be reliably used as the HA input function with a suppression scaling factor taken into account.
Detection of Metabolic Biomarkers of Response to BRAF and MEK Inhibitor Therapy of Melanoma
Authors: Gupta Pradeep Kumar , Orlovskiy Stepan , Nelson David , Pickup Stephen , Shestov Alexander , Arias-Mendoza Fernando , Putt Mary , Leeper Dennis , Glickson Jerry , Nath Kavindra
Published: August 2023

In vivo 1H and 31P MRS were used to monitor the effects of BRAF and MEK inhibitors therapy in two metabolically different melanoma xenograft models. Our approach is to combine BRAF inhibitor with MEK inhibitor in melanoma xenograft models. Combination of BRAF and MEK inhibitors has been shown to be more effective than the use of either drug alone. Differences in relative levels of glycolysis between two melanoma xenograft models may produce differential therapeutic responses to BRAF and MEK inhibitors . In melanoma, metabolic changes in response to targeted kinase inhibitor therapy occur rapidly and are related to subsequent tumor response.
Integrating Subspace Learning, Manifold Learning, and Sparsity Learning to Reconstruct Image Sequences
Authors: Li Yudu , Guan Yue , Zhao Yibo , Guo Rong , Li Yao , Liang Zhi-Pei
Published: August 2023

Many imaging applications, such as dynamic imaging and multi-contrast imaging, involve the acquisition of a sequence of images. This work addresses the underlying image reconstruction problem by incorporating priori information such as partial separability, image sparsity, and manifold structure jointly to enable high-quality image reconstruction from highly sparse data. To this end, we propose a new deep learning-based framework that enforces those constraints effectively and consistently. The proposed method has been validated using multi-contrast imaging data and produced impressive results. The image reconstruction framework can be extended for incorporating additional constraints and/or solving other sequential image reconstruction problems.
1H-MRS and machine learning for predicting voxel-wise histopathology of tumor cells in newly-diagnosed glioma patients
Authors: Tran Nate , Ellison Jacob , Adegbite Oluwaseun , Golden James , Li Yan , Phillips Joanna , Nair Devika , Shai Anny , Molinaro Annette , Pedoia Valentina , Villanueva-Meyer Javier , Berger Mitchel , Hervey-Jumper Shawn , Manish Aghi , Chang Susan , Lupo Janine
Published: August 2023

Using spectrum obtained at the spatial location of 549 tissue samples from 261 newly diagnosed patients with glioma, we trained and tested an support vector regression (SVR) model on individual metabolites, and a 1D-CNN model on the whole spectrum, to predict tumor biology such as cellularity, Ki-67, and tumor aggressiveness. A regression based 1D-CNN model using the entire spectrum pre-trained on a similar classification task outperformed the SVR model using metabolite peak heights.
Predicting Breath-Hold Liver Diffusion MRI from Free-Breathing Data using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)
Authors: Weber Emmanuelle , Zhu Xucheng , Koon Patrick , Brau Anja , Vasanawala Shreyas , McNab Jennifer
Published: August 2023

To reduce artifacts in free breathing single-shot diffusion MRI of the liver, UNet based convolutional neural networks were trained to predict breath-hold data from free-breathing data using: 1) simulated data based on a digital phantom and 2) 31 scans of a healthy volunteer. The developed networks successfully reduced motion induced artifacts in DWI images.
Combination of Multichannel Blind Deconvolution (MALBEC) and GRAPPA for Highly Accelerated 3D Imaging
Authors: Liu Ruiying , Kim Jee Hun , Zhang Chaoyi , Li Hongyu , Huang Peizhou , Li Xiaojuan , Ying Leslie
Published: August 2023

Most parallel imaging methods require calibration data for reconstruction. Low-rank-based methods allow calibration-free reconstruction from randomly undersampled, multi-channel data. This abstract presents a novel reconstruction method to combine multichannel blind deconvolution (MALBEC), a calibration-free method, and GRAPPA, a calibration-based method for highly accelerated imaging. The method sequentially performs MALBEC and GRAPPA with specially designed sampling masks such that the benefits of low-rank structure and the availability of calibration data can be utilized jointly. Our results demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve an acceleration factor that is the product of the factors achieved by MALBEC and GRAPPA alone.
Simultaneous T1, T2 and T2* Quantification with MR Fingerprinting Using Dual-Echo Echo Planar Imaging
Authors: Cui Di , Liu Xiaoxi , Cao Peng , Jakary Angela , Liu Jing , Lupo Janine , Li Yan , Xu Duan
Published: August 2023

An MR fingerprinting method using dual echo EPI was developed in this study for simultaneous quantification of T1, T2, T2*, proton density and off resonance. In vivo evaluations performed in patients with lower grade glioma tumor demonstrated the ability of the technique to acquire multiple reflexivity maps within a clinically manageable scan time with each slice using 16 seconds and achieving total brain coverage in approximately four minutes.
Fast Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping with Temporal Feature Augmented and Spatiotemporal Sampling Pattern Optimized Network
Authors: Zhang Jinwei , Zhang Hang , Spincemaille Pascal , Li Chao , Nguyen Thanh , Sabuncu Mert , Wang Yi
Published: August 2023

A multi-echo sampling pattern optimization and temporal fusion network for MRI reconstruction is proposed to accelerate data acquisition for quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM). Experiments show that both features help improve multi-echo image reconstruction. The proposed method was applied to a prospectively under-sampled mGRE acquisition demonstrating better image quality over all comparison methods.
Backscattering Mueller Matrix polarimetry shows promise for validation of diffusion MRI microstructural features in thick tissue specimens
Authors: Carlson Rhea , Bonaventura Justina , Comrie Courtney , Hutchinson Elizabeth , Sawyer Travis
Published: August 2023

Ground truth validation methods are essential to improve the accuracy of biophysical representation by diffusion MRI methods. The objective of this study is to advance PLI methodology for thick tissue imaging of fiber distributions by application of multispectral backscattering polarimetry, and of the Mueller matrix mathematical framework for unmixing contributions from depolarization, diattenutation, and retardance. Our results indicate that orientation features derived from PLI are in concordance with known brain physiology. Due to the consistent presence of retardance even in areas of crossing fibers, the results suggest that retardance angle is most sensitive to microstructural features rather than macroscopic geometry.
Measurements of cell size and density using temporal diffusion spectroscopy distinguish hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: jiang xiaoyu , Gore John C. , xu junzhong
Published: August 2023

There is an unmet need to develop a non-invasive and reliable method for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at early stages in high-risk patients (e.g., patients with cirrhosis). We hypothesized that temporal diffusion spectroscopy (TDS), which reports histopathological information such as mean cell size in vivo, can improve current Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) criteria for assessment of HCC and reduce the need for biopsies. To test this hypothesis, we applied TDS to distinguish cell sizes and densities in HCC and other liver conditions, such as benign/dysplastic nodules, fibrosis, and cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), in ex vivo studies.
Application of compressed sensing in High Spectral and Spatial resolution (HiSS) MRI – evaluation of effective resolution and image quality
Authors: Medved Milica , Vicari Marco , Karczmar Gregory
Published: August 2023

Compressed sensing (CS) acceleration was evaluated in high spectral and spatial resolution (HiSS) MRI, at acceleration factors up to R=10. Effective spatial resolution was maintained in the readout direction, and decreased with R in the phase encoding direction, although acceleration factors of up to R = 4 are realistic. Noise and artifact level amplification were not observed. CS could improve diagnostic utility of HiSS MRI in breast by allowing longer echo trains and thus heavier T2* weighting in a fewer number of k-space lines. CS could also facilitate use of HiSS MRI in geometrically constrained applications, such as prostate MRI.
pH-dependence of taurine 1H NMR chemical shifts: A potential method for pH determination and imaging
Authors: Wermter Felizitas , Dreher Wolfgang , Bock Christian
Published: August 2023

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) allows non-invasive pH measurements via the chemical shift difference between a pH-dependent resonance and a reference. We studied the pH dependence of taurine chemical shifts in 1H MRS for a wide range of pH and temperature. At 37°C and in the physiological range (pH ~7.3), the chemical shifts show a bijective dependence on pH. This approach was evaluated by measurements on taurine phantoms using solutions with different pH and temperatures, demonstrating the possibility of absolute pH determination via the chemical shift of taurine.
Towards fast single-slice QSM: Challenges and possible solutions
Authors: Naji Nashwan , Wilman Alan
Published: August 2023

Susceptibility maps reconstructed from small-axial slabs suffer underestimation due to background-field removal imperfections near slab boundaries and the increased difficulty of solving a 3D-inversion problem with reduced-support in the direction of B0. Reliable QSM reconstruction from small slabs would enable higher resolution imaging within a reasonable time-frame and further accelerate clinical adoption. This work proposed using additional rapid low-resolution data, that serves as prior information, to improve background-field estimation and regularize the inversion-to-susceptibility process. Consistent high-resolution QSM at 3T was obtained from slabs of width as small as 6.8mm, aided by a lower-resolution dataset of 16 times coarser voxels.
Recent advances in parahydrogen induced polarization for hyperpolarized low-field MRI
Authors: Theis Thomas , TomHon Patrick , Lehmkuhl Soeren , Goodson Boyd , Yen Yi-Fen , Rosen Matthew , Chekmenev Eduard
Published: August 2023

We describe recent advances with Parahydrogen Induced Polarization (PHIP) to establish easy-to-use, inexpensive hyperpolarizers with potential for translation into preclinical and clinical practice. We show that more than 10% polarization of [1-13C]-Pyruvate can be established by SABRE-SHEATH. With those polarization levels, we demonstrate hyperpolarized MRI at 1.5 T of a cryogen-free MRI system. We also describe a PHIP reactor that provides continuous hyperpolarization and achieves RASER (Radio-wave Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation), which gives 100% background free, high resolution MR signals. By combining PHIP methods with low-field MRI, an affordable yet highly sensitive molecular imaging approach may emerge.
Extension of Simple Safety Framework to Realistic Configurations
Authors: Sidhu Jagjit , Bhattacharyya Pallab , Sakaie Ken , Lowe Mark
Published: August 2023

Implanted electrodes in patients used to treat movement disorders can induce unsafe heating in scanners above 1.5T. However, this patient population will likely benefit strongly from having the option of high field and ultra-high field scanners. To remedy this situation, we demonstrate a proof-of-concept that by carefully selecting the weights of the B1 shim on a Siemens 3T Prisma scanner, negligible temperature rise can be obtained using a T2-TSE sequence. We also show that when no temperature rise is obtained, the image quality is better and more homogeneous.
Differences in brain metabolites in awake and anesthetized mice revealed by 1H-MRS
Authors: Li Ren , Xu Wenjing , Liang Zhifeng , Zhang Xiao-Yong
Published: August 2023

It is important to investigate neural metabolism and brain functions in awake animals for preclinical studies. However, there are few magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies in rodents under awake conditions. In this work, we developed an MRI-compatible restraint device for the measurement of brain metabolism in awake mice. Using 1H-MRS, we successfully observed the brain metabolic profile of prefrontal cortex and thalamus in awake mice. In addition, we found metabolic alterations between awake and anesthetized states, indicating that anesthesia has a non-negligible impact on brain metabolism.
Altered resting-state cerebral blood flow and functional connectivity mediate suicidal ideation in major depressive disorder
Authors: Fan Dandan , He Cancan , Liu Xinyi , Zang Feifei , Zhu Yao , Xie Chunming
Published: August 2023

The relationship among cerebral blood flow (CBF), functional connectivity (FC), and suicidal ideation (SI) in MDD patients has been elusive. 175 participants including 47 MDD without SI (MDDNSI), 59 MDD with SI (MDDSI), and 69 controls (HC) underwent ASL, resting-state fMRI scans, and completed neuropsychological tests. Results showed that CBF was increased in MDDSI patients in the bilateral precuneus. MDDSI patients exhibited enhanced FC in the prefrontal-limbic system and decreased FC in the right precentral gyrus relative to MDDNSI patients. Mediation analyses identified that the FC could mediate the association between CBF and behavioral performance in subgroups.
Dynamic Alterations in SpontaneousNeural Activity in First-Episode, Drug-Naive Patients with Major Depressive Disorder.
Authors: Wang Yingying , Liu Jing , Li Hailong , Qiu Hui , Gao Yingxue , Zhou Zilin , Liang Kaili , Bao Weijie , Zhang Lianqing , Gong Qiyong , Huang Xiaoqi
Published: August 2023

We collected resting-state fMRI data from 115 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and 127 normal controls (NC). The dynamic amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (dALFF) and dynamic regional homogeneity (dReHo) in 115 MDD patients and 127 NC were compared. Correlation analyses between dALFF and dReHo in brain regions showing significant intergroup differences and clinical scores were calculated in MDD patients. We found aberrant dALFF and dReHo in MDD patients and their significant correlations with clinical scores, suggesting the pattern of intrinsic brain activity variability might be potential tools to assess MDD patients’ severity of illness.
Comparison of 2D- and 3D-generated Radiomics feature maps in glioblastoma tissue subtypes segmented from DCE perfusion MRI
Authors: P Suhail Parvaze , Shah Tejas , Neelavalli Jaladhar , Singh Anup , Gupta Rakesh
Published: August 2023

Radiomics based feature value analysis and feature maps especially for first order and texture based features are being thoroughly investigated for diagnostic usability and relevance. Radiomics based feature map generation using 2D and 3D modes on different tumor sub-regions of glioblastoma were performed. 2D-based feature maps depicted accurately the texture variation with respect to other images from the slice of interest, whereas in 3D based maps anatomy and pathology of the neighboring slices induced influence resulting in over depiction of pathology.
The feasibility of contrast-enhanced 3D T1WI reconstructed with Compressed SENSE Artificial Intelligence in evaluation of brain metastases
Authors: Li Linna , Chen Zhongping , Lu Renjie , He Xin , Qiu Ying , Guo Dandan , Shi Hongkun , Tong Dan , Zhu Yi , Jiang Ke
Published: August 2023

Contrast-enhanced (CE) 3D T1-weighted scanning has been used more frequently with better spatial resolution and thinner section than 2D T1-weighted images for early detection and response assessment of brain metastases. To further improve the image scanning sequence, a new reconstruction algorithm, Compressed-SENSE Artificial Intelligence (CS-AI) was applied experimentally to achieve a balance between shortened scan time and improved image quality. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of contrast-enhanced 3D T1-weighted MRI reconstructed with Compressed SENSE Artificial Intelligence (CS-AI) by comparing with 3D T1-weighted images reconstructed with Compressed SENSE(CS), and to find out the optimal acceleration factor(AF).
Iron deposition decreased in the thalamus and functional connectivity increased between the thalamus and the hippocampus in T2DM patient
Authors: Ni Minhua , Yan Linfeng , Wei Xiaocheng , Cui Guangbin
Published: August 2023

In this study, change of susceptibility level in the gray matter nucleus of T2DM patients and their functional connectivity were investigated using quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) and fMRI techniques. We found iron deposition decreased in the thalamus and functional connectivity increased between the thalamus and the hippocampus. Susceptibility reduction suggested an involvement of chronic microglia activation in the depletion of iron from oligodendrocytes in this central and integrative brain region. The functional connectivity may indicate a compensatory enhancement. These results remind that the thalamus may play an important role in patients with T2DM.
Gray matter difference associated with hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women: a voxel-based morphometry (VBM) study
Authors: Kim Tae-Hoon , Jeong Chang-Won , Kim ByoungRyun , Kim Youe Ree , Lee Chungsub , Lee Young Hwan , Yoon Kwon-Ha
Published: August 2023

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopausal women can reduce troublesome menopause symptoms and prevent cognitive decline. Several structural and volumetric researches reported that localized morphologic changes associated with estrogen meditation. However, it is still unclear how to minimize menopausal symptoms and to protect a woman’s brain from decline. This study investigated the potential effects of HRT on sex hormone level and brain morphology using an optimized voxel-based morphometry (VBM) method.
Comparative analysis of diffusion-weighted image analysis along the perivascular space (DWI-ALPS) for evaluating interstitial fluid status
Authors: Taoka Toshiaki , Ito Rintaro , Nakamichi Rei , Nakane Toshiki , Ichikawa Kazushige , Sakai Mayuko , Naganawa Shinji
Published: August 2023

The diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) method has been developed to evaluate glymphatic function. In order to evaluate wider clinical cases, we developed a diffusion weighted image ALPS (DWI-ALPS) technique. The ALPS-index was retrospectively calculated by clinical DWI of normal subjects and those with pathologies. In normal subjects, the ALPS-index was highest in those in their forties and lowest in those in their seventies. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease and subdural hematoma showed a lower ALPS-index than age-matched normal subjects. The DWI-ALPS method seems to be feasible for evaluation of glymphatic function in the clinical practice.
A preliminary study of optimized b-value scheme in diagnosis of cervical cancer using reduced field-of-view diffusion weighted imaging
Authors: Tang Qian , Liu Weiyin , Zhou Qiqi , Xing Yu , Liu Chao , Xu Lin
Published: August 2023

The number of used b values and the b values themselves prolong scan time. Longer scan time deprives patient tolerance, increase more possibility of involuntary movement, and thus limits the application value of IVIM technology. Therefore, we aimed to explore the optimal scheme of rFOV DW imaging with multiple b-values. We found no significant difference of mean ADC, D* and f values but mean D value in our patients between two different b-value schemes, suggesting optimized b-value setting was appropriate in diagnosis of cervical cancer especially for cervical squamous carcinoma.
Diagnostic performance of peripheral zone prostate cancer: a comparison between PI-RADS v2.1 and PI-RADS v2
Authors: Zhang Dan , Chen Zhi , Song Na , Wang Zhuo , Zhang Shao , Chen Xiao , Wei Xiao , Chen Bing
Published: August 2023

In this study, we aim to investigate the diagnostic value of PI-RADS v2.1 and PI-RADS v2 (prostate imaging reporting and data system version 2.1 and version 2) for peripheral zone prostate cancer. It was concluded that the diagnostic value of PI-RADS v2.1 was higher.
CEST vs. DWI: Capability for Distinguishing Malignant from Benign Prostatic Areas in Patients with Prostatic Cancer
Authors: Ueda Takahiro , Ohno Yoshiharu , Yamamoto Kaori , Yui Masao , Ikedo Masato , Takeda Saki , Iwase Akiyoshi , Oshima Yuka , Hamabuchi Nayu , Hanamatsu Satomu , Obama Yuki , Nagata Hiroyuki , Ikeda Hirotaka , Murayama Kazuhiro , Toyama Hiroshi
Published: August 2023

We hypothesize that CEST is at least as valuable as DWI and may have a potential to improve differentiation capability of malignant from benign prostatic areas as one of the combined quantitative discriminators on prostatic MR imaging. The purpose of this study was to compare the capability for distinguishing malignant from benign areas among CEST, DWIs at standard and super high b values and combined quantitative discriminator in suspected prostatic cancer patients.
SNR enhancement in rapid high b-value prostate single-shot DW-EPI utilizing deep learning constrained Compressed SENSE reconstruction
Authors: Yoneyama Masami , Yoshida Takashige , Kwon Jihun , Katsumata Yasutomo , Zhang Shuo , Van Cauteren Marc
Published: August 2023

DWI is a key component of the prostate MRI examination, but current prostate DWI images acquired with high b-value DWI using SENSE often suffer from increased noise artifacts. We propose to utilize a deep learning constrained Compressed SENSE (CS-AI) for reducing the noise artifacts in single-shot DW-EPI images. CS-AI DWI clearly reduces noise-like artifacts, boosts the overall SNR and significantly improves the accuracy and robustness of ADC values in rapid high b-value prostate DWI compared with conventional SENSE- and CS-DW-EPI, without any penalty for scan parameters.
Spatiotemporal structural atlas of the fetal brain depicts cortical developmental patterns in a Chinese population
Authors: Xu Xinyi , Sun Jiwei , Shi Wen , Shen Yao , Zhao Ruoke , Luo Wanrong , Sun Cong , Chen Ruike , Li Mingyang , Hsu Yi-Cheng , Sun Yi , Zhang Yi , Wang Guangbin , Wu Dan
Published: August 2023

We constructed a 4D spatiotemporal atlas of the normal fetal brain development from 23 to 38 gestational weeks in a Chinese population. We depicted the developmental trajectories of morphological indices of the cerebral cortex, which showed a characteristic regional variations and indicated the developmental order and rates in the different cortical parcels. The fetal brain atlas and fetal cerebral cortex trajectory offer a better understanding of fetal brain development and can be used as an analytic reference for clinicians in diagnostic or research settings.
The combination of DCE-MRI and IVIM to differentiate rectal mucinous adenocarcinoma and tubular adenocarcinoma
Authors: liu yuhui , chen anliang , Dong Wan , Liu Ailian
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study is to use IVIM（intravoxel incoherent motion）and DCE（dynamic contrast-enhanced）imaging techniques to identify the value of rectal mucinous adenocarcinoma and tubular adenocarcinoma, and to provide rich information and help for clinical decision-making.
NMR-based metabonomic fingerprinting reveals temporal and spatial heterogeneities of metabolic characterization in colorectal cancer tissue
Authors: Lin Yan , Zhang Huanian , Ouyang Ting , Cai Rongzhi , Zheng Peie , Fu yao , Wu Renhua
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to profile the metabolic differences of colorectal cancer tissues (CCT) in different stages and sites, as compared with their adjacent noncancerous tissues (ANT), to investigate the temporal and spatial heterogeneities of metabolic characterization. Our NMR-based metabonomics fingerprinting revealed that many of the metabolite levels were significantly altered in CCT as compared with ANT, indicating deregulations of glucose metabolism, one-carbon metabolism, glutamine metabolism, amino acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, TCA cycle, choline metabolism, ect. Significant metabolic differences were found in CRC tissues at different pathological stages and sites, suggesting temporal and spatial heterogeneities of metabolic characterization in CCT.
Deep slice-crossed network with local weighted loss for brain metastases detection and segmentation
Authors: Qu Jiao , Shu Xin , Zhang Wenjing , Xu Mengyuan , Wang Ying , Wang Lituan , Zhang Lei , Lui Su
Published: August 2023

Brain metastases detection and segmentation on magnetic resonance images is laborious, error-prone and often irreproducible for radiologists and radiation oncologist. We present a specific deep slice-crossed network with local weighted loss to automatically detect and segment brain metastases on contrast-enhanced T1WI images. The results demonstrated the good performance, high robustness and generalizability of the model. In addition, compared with radiologists, the model showed higher sensitivity and increased efficiency in identifying and segmenting brain metastases. The results jointly suggested that the proposed model is a promising tool to assist the workflow in the clinical practice.
Differentiation of Primary and Secondary Liver Cancer with Amide Proton Transfer-weighted imaging and Dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging
Authors: Ren Xue , Wang Jiazheng , Sun Peng , Chen Lihua , Song Qingwei , Pu Renwang , Zhao Ying , Lin Tao , Xu Qihao , Liu Ailian
Published: August 2023

Liver cancer has become one of the most frequent fatal malignancies around the world. And the early precise diagnosis of different types of liver cancer is very critical for treatment strategy design. This retrospective study evaluated the diagnostic efficacy of amide proton transfer weighted (APTw) and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) imaging for the differentiation between primary and secondary liver cancer. Results showed that a combination of APTw and DCE significantly improved the diagnosis of liver cancer.
A MRI-based model using Graph Convolutional Network combine Nomogram to predict Microvascular invasion diagnosis
Authors: Zhou Yang , Zhang Ziqian , Zhao Wenjuan , Wang Xinxin , Wang Kun , Luan Kuan , Lian Jianxiu , Shi Mengchao
Published: August 2023

Accurate preoperative assessment of microvascular invasion (MVI) can help clinicians choose more reasonable treatment options, reduce the recurrence of HCC patients after surgical treatment, and improve the survival rate of patients. In this study, Graph convolutional network (GCN) was used to build a preoperative diagnostic model for MVI for mining the correlation between radiomic features. The results revealed that the value of the predicted MVI nomogram established was 0.884 in the validation when the radiographic characteristics of the patients were combined with graph convolutional network Score（GS).
Effects of low-moderate prenatal alcohol exposure on brain development in childhood
Authors: Kelly Claire , Dhollander Thijs , Muggli Evelyne , Halliday Jane , Elliott Elizabeth , Penington Anthony , Spittle Alicia , Forster Della , Lewis Sharon , Hearps Stephen , Thompson Deanne , Anderson Peter
Published: August 2023

Effects of low-moderate prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on brain development have been infrequently studied. In a general antenatal population cohort, we compared brain structure between 6-8-year-old children with no PAE (n=41), PAE during trimester 1 (n=44), and PAE throughout gestation (n=58). Most brain regions did not differ between groups, however the caudal anterior cingulate cortex area, and striato-cortical tract cross-sectional area, were significantly smaller in the group exposed to alcohol throughout gestation relative to the other groups. Overall, low-moderate PAE is not strongly associated with brain structure, except low-moderate PAE throughout gestation is associated with specific brain regional alterations.
The application value of T2 weight imaging histogram in assessing the Placenta Accreta
Authors: Yue songhong , Li jie , Fan fengxian , Li haoyuan , Ling xiao , Bai yupin , A Kai , Zhang jing
Published: August 2023

Accurate evaluation of placenta accreta before parturition can effectively avoid adverse maternal and infantile outcomes. Based on the T2 weighted imaging (T2WI) histogram, this study analyze the placenta quantitatively. We compared the difference in T2WI histogram parameters between the placenta accreta group (23 patients) and the non-placenta accreta group (27 patients) to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy. Among these parameters, the difference of 10 Percentile, Energy, Entropy, Total Energy, Uniformity was statistically significant (P<0.05). Uniformity and Entropy have the largest area under the curve (AUC). We speculate T2WI based histogram is useful for noninvasive assessment of placental implantation.
Differentiating metastatic from nonmetastatic lymph nodes in cervical cancer patients by IVIM-DWI and DKI
Authors: Zhong Suixing , Zhang Ya , Ding Yingying , Zhang Xiaoyong , Tan Jing , Ai Conghui , Jin Yan , Wang Hongbo , Zhang Huimei , Li Miaomiao , Zhu Rong , Gu Shangwei
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) diffusion-weighted imaging and diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) in distinguishing metastatic from nonmetastatic lymph nodes (LNs) in cervical cancer patients. The clinical and imaging data of 102 patients with cervical cancer were collected prospectively, including 38 patients with LN metastasis and 64 patients without LN metastasis. The morphological parameters, diffusion parameters and tumor markers of primary tumors and LNs were measured and compared between the two groups. The results showed that the diagnostic efficiency of diffusion parameters were not as good as morphological parameters.
Acceleration of T2-weighted head Multivane imaging by compressed sensing
Authors: Liu Na , Song Wei , Lin Jie , Wang Nan , Liu Lian , Miao Wei
Published: August 2023

Multivane (MV) imaging, based on the blade rotating acquisition in k space, is a novel sequence for motion reduction imaging. The MV acquisition percentage is critical parameter in MV imaging for balanced image quality and scan time. This study aims to assess the performance of compressed sensing for accelerated T2-weighted head MV imaging under altered MV acquisition percentages. Results indicated that scan time of head Multivane (MV) T2WI was significantly reduced by compressed sensing (CS) without reduced image quality.
Improving image quality of ultralow-dose pediatric total-body PET/CT using deep learning technique
Authors: Zhang Qiyang , Xiao Zizheng , Zhang Xu , Hu Yingying , Zhao Yumo , Wang Jingyi , Feng Jiatai , Zhou Yun , Yang Yongfeng , Liu Xin , Zheng Hairong , Fan Wei , Liang Dong , Hu Zhanli
Published: August 2023

Young children are more sensitive to radiation doses than adults, and their absorption of effective doses can be 4-5 times that of adults. When performing PET imaging, the use of low-dose imaging agents for high-quality imaging is of clinical importance. Here, we use artificial intelligence techniques combined with prior CT information to improve the quality of total-body PET/CT images in ultralow-dose pediatric FDG scans, and the results show that the equivalent quality of 600s acquisition data can be obtained using 15s acquisition.
Free-breathing MRI enabled by FD-UNet with ground truth from repeated k-t-subsampling and greedy randomized adaptive search procedure
Authors: Wang Lu , Xu Xiaorui , Liang Liyuan , Chang Hing-Chiu
Published: August 2023

Deep learning solutions have been proposed to correct motion-induced artefact in free-breathing abdominal MRI that can overcome some challenges in conventional methods, such as requiring respiratory modeling, external motion monitoring devices, or extremely long computation time. However, ground truth data for training can only be acquired with breath-holding or using those conventional methods. In this study, we proposed to use FD-UNet for the motion correction of free-breathing abdominal MRI. The high-quality and artifact-free ground truth data were produced from repeated k-t-subsampling and greedy randomized adaptive search procedure (ReK-GRASP), without relying on respiratory modeling, external devices, or long computation time.
Amide proton transfer weighted imaging in differential diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma from intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Jingcheng , Chen Junfei , Dou Weiqiang , Ye Jing , Xia Wei , Luo Xianfu
Published: August 2023

In this study, we aimed to investigate the feasibility of amide proton transfer weighted (APTw) imaging for differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) from intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma(ICC) patients. With the APTw imaging metric of magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTRasym), significantly different magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTRasym) values, a typical metric of APTw imaging, were shown between hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. With this finding, APTw imaging could be considered an effective imaging biomarker for differentiating HCC from ICC.
Inclusion of B0 mapping images in motion correction for improved quality of CEST maps
Authors: Dai Zhechuan , Hsu Yi-Cheng , Sun Yi , Wu Dan , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2023

The inhomogeneity of the main magnetic field (B0) often results in degraded quality of CEST images. Currently, various B0 mapping methods have been used to correct the B0 inhomogeneity of CEST images. Motion inevitably happens between B0 mapping and CEST scans, which, however, is usually ignored in the current CEST processing pipeline. Here, we show that the inclusion of B0 mapping images into the motion correction process improved the quality of the CEST maps, and statistically significantly improved the uniformity indices. Thus, we suggest adding the motion correction of B0 mapping data step into the standard CEST processing pipeline.
Preliminary demonstration of a new motion-based noise reduction method for 3D CEST-MRI
Authors: Zhao Botao , Zhang Xiao-Yong
Published: August 2023

Quantification of chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging is a keystone for many clinical applications. Head motion and motion-caused noise produce non-negligible effects on the quantification in the whole brain 3D imaging. To solve the problem, we propose a new motion-based noise reduction method. Our preliminary results demonstrate that our method can reduce the noise efficiently and improve the amide proton transfer (APT) quantification results in the conditions of either with slight head motion or with huge head motion.
Deuterium metabolic imaging for glioma in rat model using [2,3,4,6,6’-2H5]glucose
Authors: Zou Chao , Ruan Yingheng , Du Feng , Qin Qikai , Wan Qian , Yuan Jiawen , Thompson Garth , Yang Xiaojun , Li Ye , Liu Xin , Zheng Hairong
Published: August 2023

Deuterium MRS(I) has emerged as a novel metabolic imaging method. However, the deuterium labeled substrate such as [6,6’-2H2]glucose is expensive, which becomes one of the obstacles for the clinical translation of this technique. Recently, we developed a cost-effective synthesis route for a new deuterated compound [2,3,4,6,6’-2H5]glucose. The cost of [2,3,4,6,6’-2H5]glucose is significantly lower than the [6,6’-2H2]glucose. In this study, we demonstrate that this new compound can measure the glycolytic flux through a rat glioma model.
A Learning Method to Estimate Multi-compartmental T2 Distributions with low Data Requirements
Authors: Vallejo-Aldana Daniel , Gonzalez-Vega Arturo , Hernandez Victor , Piazza Valeria , Alata Milvia , Rafael-Patiño Jonathan , Yu Thomas , Concha Luis , Ramirez-Manzanares Alonso
Published: August 2023

The estimation of intravoxel distributions of T2 values based on multi-echo MR data is a challenging task. Interestingly, the information above is quite useful to detect damage on brain tissue, e.g. to estimate myelin-water-fraction changes associated with demyelination processes. Currently available methods typically require a long train of echoes, which are not always feasible to acquire. In this work we tackle this problem using state-of-the-art supervised learning convolutional networks to build a robust prediction model on very limited data ( 5 echoes and 4 TR). The methodology identifies myelin abnormalities in a rodent model of a neurological disorder with demyelination.
High-spatial resolution mapping of microvascular permeability-surface area product using dual temporal resolution DCE-MRI techniques
Authors: Li Ka-Loh , Lewis Daniel , Zhu Xiaoping , Jackson Alan , Cootes Timothy
Published: August 2023

A limitation of the extended Tofts model (ETM) is that estimates of Ktrans, transfer constant, reflect both capillary plasma flow (Fp) and the capillary permeability-surface area product (PS). Other DCE-MRI models can separate out these physiological effects, but such models mandate high-temporal resolution data, compromising spatial resolution and volume coverage. In this in vivo brain tumor study, we demonstrate that incorporating the ETM and an early-timepoints absolute CBF (ET-CBF) method with a dual-temporal resolution, DCE-MRI approach, termed LEGATOS, permits generation of high-spatial resolution maps of Ktrans, Fp and PS, allowing high-spatial resolution interrogation of flow and permeability effects.
Inter-observer variability in MR-based target volume delineation of uveal melanoma
Authors: Klaassen L. , Jaarsma-Coes M.G. , Verbist B.M. , Vu T.H.K. , Klaver Y.L.B. , Rodrigues M.F. , Ferreira T.A. , Nabarro C. , Luyten G.P.M. , Rasch C.R.N. , van Herk M. , Beenakker J.W.M.
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the inter-observer variation in gross target volume (GTV) delineation of uveal melanoma on MRI. Six observers delineated the GTV in ten different patients on T2-weighted and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted scans. The average interobserver variation appeared slightly higher on T1gd (0.41 mm) compared to T2 (0.35 mm), although the difference was not significant (p=0.12). We recommend to delineate based on the T1gd-weighted scans, as parts of the tumour might be missed on T2.
Oxygen Transport Modelling for Mapping Brain Oxygen Extraction Fraction with Single Gas Calibrated fMRI
Authors: Chiarelli Antonio , Germuska Michael , Chandler Hannah , Stickland Rachael , Patitucci Eleonora , Biondetti Emma , Mascali Daniele , Saxena Neeraj , Khot Sharmila , Steventon Jessica , Foster Catherine , Rodríguez-Soto Ana , Englund ‪Erin , Murphy Kevin , Tomassini Valentina , Wehrli Felix , Wise Richard
Published: August 2023

Dual-calibrated functional MRI (dc-fMRI) can map brain oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) by measuring BOLD-ASL signal changes during arterial O2 and CO2 modulations. Two modulations are required to decouple OEF and the deoxyhemoglobin-sensitive blood volume. Here, we propose a single gas calibrated approach that integrates a model of oxygen transport that links blood volume and CBF to OEF. Simulations demonstrated the method’s viability. In-vivo application with hypercapnia provided estimates of grey matter OEF in agreement with dc-fMRI and with whole-brain OEF derived from signal phase measures in the superior sagittal sinus. The simplified calibrated fMRI method holds promise for clinical application.
Vascular Mapping of the Human Hippocampus Using USPIO
Authors: Buch Sagar , Chen Yongsheng , Jella Pavan , Ge Yulin , Haacke Ewart
Published: August 2023

In this work, we introduce the use of Ferumoxytol, an ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxides (USPIO) agent, to increase the susceptibility in the veins and arteries to map the hippocampal microvasculature and to evaluate the fractional vascular density (FVD) in each of its subfields. We found that the hippocampal fissure, along with the fimbria, granular cell layer of the dentate gyrus and cornu ammonis layers (except for CA1), showed higher microvascular FVD than other parts of the hippocampus.
Free-breathing PRF Thermometry of the Liver at 0.55T
Authors: Majeed Waqas , Krafft Axel , Bhat Himanshu
Published: August 2023

Low field MRI offers advantages such as reduced cost and improved safety of implantable and interventional devices, and reduced RF energy deposition over high field alternatives. In this study we propose acquisition and analysis pipelines for free-breathing 2D and 3D liver thermometry and demonstrate the feasibility of MR thermometry of the liver at 0.55T.
Combining gradient and spin echo calibrated fMRI for mapping brain oxygen extraction fraction
Authors: Germuska Michael , Chiarelli Antonio , Chandler Hannah , Driver Ian , Wise Richard
Published: August 2023

We propose a new calibrated fMRI approach for non-invasive measurement of the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen of oxygen consumption and the deoxyhaemoglobin weighted blood volume. The method exploits the differential dependence of the gradient and spin echo BOLD signals on OEF. Unlike conventional calibrated approaches, we show that gradient-spin echo calibrated fMRI requires only a single respiratory modulation to determine OEF. The method is applied in-vivo using a repeated breath-holding protocol, and initial results show agreement with global measurements of oxygen saturation.
Simulation of a shield effect on a J-pole antenna array for ultra-high field MR-PET
Authors: Choi Chang-Hoon , Hong Suk-Min , Felder Jörg , Lerche Christoph , Shah N. Jon
Published: August 2023

Interest in simultaneously operating MR-PET systems as a means of accessing multiple biological parameters with high spatial and temporal resolution is increasing. In a hybrid acquisition, the RF antenna is used inside the PET FOV generating potential photon loss and artefacts. A multi-channel J-pole antenna array, which does not include any high-density parts in the imaging FOV, has been recently introduced, and its outstanding performance has been demonstrated. To prevent interference between MR and PET, including an RF shield is necessary. Here, we conducted a simulation to compare the characteristics of the J-shape antenna array with and without the shield.
Evaluation of automatic segmentation of perivascular spaces in multiple sclerosis patients and healthy controls on 3T MRI
Authors: Brewer Joan , George Ilena , Edison Gale , Zhang Joy , King Sarah , Sumowski James , Balchandani Priti , Verma Gaurav , Feldman Rebecca , Horng Sam
Published: August 2023

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease; disease can be measured on MRI by the appearance or enlargement of lesions. PVS measurements on MRI may represent a more predictive biomarker of disease. Because manual measurement of PVSs is time intensive, our collaborators developed a tool to automatically segment PVSs. Here, we investigated the utility of the automatic segmentations. We correlated the automated PVS counts with manual segmentations (0.66), as well as the PVS areas (0.55). Differences between healthy control and MS groups in this preliminary analysis were not statistically significant. Future work will expand from 45 to 300 patients.
Evaluation of the robustness of carotid pulse wave velocity measurement using a single-slice oblique-sagittal phase-contrast MRI
Authors: Tang Jianing , Pahlavian Soroush , Chui Helena , Yan Lirong
Published: August 2023

Characterization of cerebral vascular compliance (VC) could offer more insights into the vascular contribution to cognitive impairment. Cerebral VC can be measured using ASL methods but with a long scan time. A recent study introduced a fast MRI technique to assess global cerebral VC by measuring carotid pulse wave velocity (cPWV) using a single-slice oblique-sagittal PC-MRI. In this study, the robustness of cPWV measurement to the variations of ROI selection has been demonstrated. The results from a pilot study on an aged cohort suggests elevated cPWV is associated with cognitive decline and could be a potential marker for cognitive impairment.