bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the MRI Signature of Healed Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans (JOCD) in the Knee – The ‘Scar Sign’
Authors: Ellermann Jutta , Kajabi Abdul Wahed , Tompkins Marc , Luchsinger Joe , Zbyn Stefan , Marette Shelly , Nelson Bradley , Takahashi Takashi
Published: August 2024

Healing of Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans requires progressive lesion ossification and osseous bridging with the parent bone. The ‘Scar Sign’ is an MR imaging finding that documents a healed knee JOCD lesion and is characterized by a distinct hypointense line at the prior lesion – parent bone interface, best identified on PD- or T1-weighted images w/o FS on routine clinical MRI. Knowledge of stages, timeline of healing and expected MR imaging findings of JOCD is important for the reporting Radiologist. It will facilitate prognostication and can serve as a reliable outcome measure for future research on evidence based Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans management.
T1 and T2* Relaxometry MRI of Knee Growth Plate Using Ultra-Short TE MRI: Feasibility Study
Authors: Jung Kwan-Jin , Ganji Elahe
Published: August 2024

Growth plates are one of the most common sites of injury in the young skeleton. The growth plate is an interwoven and multi-layered interfacial tissue that transitions from cartilaginous to mineral morphology as it extends into metaphysis of long bones. We used Ultrashort Echo-time (UTE) MR imaging as a promising sensitive technique to detect the growth plate transition that has short T2. The UTE sequence was extended to measure T2* and T1 using multi-echoes and variable flip angles. The contrast of the transitional zone was further enhanced by a ratio of T1 over T2*.
The Performance of 3D-UTE MRI in Children with Pneumonia: Comparison with Standard 3D T1-GRE and T2-FSE Sequences
Authors: sun yan , chen yujie , li xuesheng , liao yi , chen xijian , song yu , liang xinyue , dai yongming , ning gang
Published: August 2024

As a promising MRI technique, ultrashort echo‑time (UTE) sequence has been widely used in the evaluation of pulmonary diseases, allowing for increased contrast-to-noise ratio and the comparable image quality with CT. Literature on the use of the UTE in pneumonia is broadly available in older children and adults, whereas the data in younger children group is limited. This study illustrated the ability of UTE lung imaging for assessing pneumonia patients under 3 years old and has good diagnostic utility in detecting the typical morphological findings of pediatric pneumonia.
SSL-QALAS: Self-Supervised Learning for Multiparametric Quantitative MRI Using QALAS
Authors: Jun Yohan , Cho Jaejin , Wang Xiaoqing , Gee Michael , Grant P. Ellen , Bilgic Berkin , Gagoski Borjan
Published: August 2024

The 3D-quantification using an interleaved Look-Locker acquisition sequence with T2 preparation pulse (3D-QALAS) has been developed and used for acquiring high-resolution T1, T2, and PD maps from five measurements. The dictionary matching method can be used for generating quantitative maps from the acquired multi-contrast images; however, it requires an external dictionary, which needs to be pre-calculated and voxel-by-voxel fitting is computationally demanding. In this study, we propose to generate multiple quantitative maps including T1, T2, PD, and inversion efficiency (IE) maps using self-supervised learning from 3D-QALAS measurements (i.e., SSL-QALAS) for rapid, accurate, and dictionary-free multiparametric fitting.
A Brain Age Estimation Network based on QSM using the Segment Transformer
Authors: Wang Yiqing , Shi Yuting , Wei Hongjiang
Published: August 2024

Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) reflects various biological procedures, e.g., iron accumulation in deep gray matter, which is tightly associated with brain development and highly related to various neurodegenerative diseases. Nowadays, deep-learning-based methods have achieved great success in medical image segmentation due to their ability to extract multi-scale features. We create a novel network to segment key brain areas on QSM images to improve brain age prediction. Our network further integrates multi-level features by utilizing a variant of Vision Transformer, termed Segment Transformer. Results show that our method can improve brain age estimation compared to previous studies based on T1w MRI.
Mapping of relative temperature changes through quadrupolar transverse H217O relaxivity in phantom and validated in rat at 7T and 16T UHF
Authors: Wiesner Hannes , Wang Tao , Li Xin , Zhu Wei , Haney Kelsey , Zhu Xiao-Hong , Chen Wei
Published: August 2024

In this study we evaluate the application of linewidth thermometry using the transverse relaxation of natural abundance 17O on leading human and preclinical high-field MRI platforms. It could be beneficial as a simple and fast alternative approach compared to the phase method to assess temperature. We validated it in post-mortem rodents after preparations on phantoms. Furthermore, due to the lower operating frequency some high-field challenges could be ameliorated with the right choice of volume to signal acquisition ratio.
Whole Brain Spherical Mean Value Filtering for Shadow Reduction in Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping
Authors: Roberts Alexandra , Spincemaille Pascal , Nguyen Thanh , Wang Yi
Published: August 2024

Morphology Enabled Dipole Inversion (MEDI) is an iterative reconstruction algorithm for Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) that is effective in suppressing streaking artifacts by exploiting the magnitude image as a morphological prior. However, contiguous areas of dipole incompatibility (such as noise) induce shadow artifacts whose spatial frequency components are not sufficiently regularized by the gradient-based regularization in MEDI. The harmonic quality allows the use of the maximum corollary of Green’s theorem to remove residual background field. This mSMV approach reduces shadows and preserves brain volume, comparing favorably to existing algorithms.
Enhancing the precision of multi-phase parametric maps in 4D-MRF by optimization of local T1 and T2 sensitivities
Authors: Wong Yat Lam , Li Tian , Liu Chenyang , Lee Victor Ho Fun , Cheung Lai Yin Andy , Cao Peng , Hui Edward Sai Kam , Cai Jing
Published: August 2024

Time-resolved magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF), or 4D-MRF, has demonstrated its feasibility in motion management in radiotherapy (RT). However, the prohibitive long acquisition time is one of challenges of the clinical implementation of 4D-MRF. The shortening of acquisition time may compromise the accuracies of the predicted tissues’ properties. Here, we propose a novel technique to enhance the accuracies of 4D-MRF with shortened acquisition by optimizing T1 and T2 sensitivities through inter-phase data sharing.
Incorporating fat and spatial saturation in MR Fingerprinting
Authors: Trimble Christopher , Sørland Kaia , Bathen Tone , Elschot Mattijs , Cloos Martijn
Published: August 2024

Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting (MRF) enables fast quantitative MR imaging, and represents an opportunity to improve upon the current standard of multi-parametric MRI (mp-MRI). In this work we demonstrate how the MRF pulse sequence can be adapted to include different saturation techniques, whilst retaining accurate T1 and T2 quantification. Extended Phase Graphs (EPGs) of the sequence illustrate the effective spoiling of chemical elements, such as fat, and spatial saturation. Phantom imaging shows that T1 quantification is not significantly affected and T2 quantification remains accurate up to 100ms. As an example, the framework is tested in-vivo in the context of prostate imaging.
Magnetisation Transfer effects on T1 and T2 values in MR Fingerprinting
Authors: Kukran Simran , Dragonu Iulius , Statton Ben , Allen Jack , Lally Pete , Quest Rebecca , Bangerter Neal , Koh Dow-Mu , Orton Matthew , Grech-Sollars Matthew
Published: August 2024

A fingerprinting sequence was developed with and without off resonance pulses before every TR to investigate MT effects on T1 and T2 values. Off-resonance pulses suppress MT effects by saturating signal from free protons that exchange with bound protons. Observed T2 values increased with off resonance pulses as expected. Observed T1 values decreased, this was an opposite effect to what was observed previously with a different pulse sequence.
A steady-state MRF sequence optimization framework for 3D simultaneous water T1 and fat fraction mapping
Authors: Slioussarenko Constantin , Baudin Pierre-Yves , Marty Benjamin
Published: August 2024

We introduce an optimization framework using the longitudinal steady-state equilibrium for FLASH MRF sequences, and taking into account signal noise by using a Monte Carlo method. We use this framework to optimize echo times, flip angles, timings and recovery time for T1H2O and FF mapping while shortening our original MRF T1-FF sequence. The resulting Fast MRF T1-FF sequence yields comparable estimation results to the original sequence with an almost twice reduced acquisition time.
Five clinical contrasts from 1 minute whole brain MRF with B0 correction
Authors: Schauman Sophie , Iyer Siddharth , Cao Xiaozhi , Chen Quan , Yurt Mahmut , Ruengchaijatuporn Natthanan , Liao Congyu , Zaharchuk Greg , Setsompop Kawin
Published: August 2024

Clinical contrasts can be generated from a 1 min 1 mm isotropic whole brain MRF scan and B0 correction improves it further. We tested this method in healthy volunteers as well as clinical populations.
The influence of diffusion in fast multi-parametric relaxometry
Authors: Fuderer Miha , van der Heide Oscar , van den Berg C.A.T. , Sbrizzi Alessandro
Published: August 2024

In MRF, it has been established – but often ignored – that the presence of diffusion causes bias in the estimated T2. We measure this effect in MR-STAT. Thereby we confirm the theoretical model that the bias is proportional to the square of T2. We also find that the bias level strongly depends on the RF sequence used. This opens the prospect of optimizing sequences on minimal diffusion-induced bias in T2.
Fast Deep Learning models for Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting
Authors: Cabini Raffaella Fiamma , Cicolari Davide , Barzaghi Leonardo , Arosio Paolo , Carrazza Stefano , Figini Silvia , Filibian Marta , Peviani Marco , Pichiecchio Anna , Lascialfari Alessandro
Published: August 2024

We proposed a DL method and an automatic hyperparameters optimization strategy to reconstruct T1 and T2 maps acquired with two Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting (MRF) sequences. The model was trained and validated on a preclinical MRF dataset and tested on an independent test set. Through a lower number of MRF images and a lower k-space sampling percentage than the standard post-processing, the DL-based method and the automatic hyperparameters optimization strategy deliver parametric maps with similar accuracy as the dictionary-based methodology.
Simultaneous T1 T2 T2* quantification using 2D EPI-MRF by shuffled sampling and compressed time-resolved reconstruction with B0 B1+ correction
Authors: Cui Di , Liu Xiaoxi , Larson Peder , Xu Duan
Published: August 2024

A 2D EPI based MRF acquisition and reconstruction method was developed in this study. A shuffled acquisition order and pseudo-randomized sampling pattern was designed for 2D k-space and compressed time-resolved reconstruction was utilized for faster reconstruction. T1 T2 T2* were simultaneously quantified, B0, B1+ and proton density maps are generated.
Correction of B0 Eddy Current Effects in Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting at 5.0T Whole Body Scanner
Authors: Guo Yifan , Zou Lixian , Liu Congcong , Li Fanshi , Zhu Yanjie , Liu Xin , Zheng Hairong , Liang Dong , Wang Haifeng
Published: August 2024

Spiral-based MR fingerprinting (MRF) is an efficient T1 and T2 quantification technique for simultaneous measurement of tissue properties. Affected by the artifacts caused by the B0 eddy currents effects at 5T, a system response eddy current correction strategy is proposed to mitigate the blurring and artifacts of the MRF Spiral. The results of in vivo experiments on the head and abdomen showed that our approach to correct the artifacts caused by the B0 eddy currents was effective.
Comparison of k-space Sampling Patterns for MR Fingerprinting
Authors: Horger Felix , Tomi-Tricot Raphael , Di Cio Pierluigi , Hajnal Joseph , Malik Shaihan
Published: August 2024

The temporal low-rank property of signals produced by MR Fingerprinting can be used to circumvent reconstruction of individual time frames. Instead, temporally compressed components are estimated. Since every acquired sample then contributes to every compressed component, it is unclear which k-space sampling pattern is optimal. This work collects evidence for higher robustness of radial sampling towards measurement errors and its superior ability to resolve rapidly varying temporal signals, compared to a Cartesian pattern, simulated in a realistic scenario and supported by an in vivo observation. The aim is making informed decisions about optimal sampling patterns for MRF.
Phase-based T2 mapping using dual phase-cycled balanced SSFP imaging
Authors: Berendsen Merijn , Bozic-Iven Maša , Tourais Joao , Coletti Chiara , Hermann Ingo , Weingärtner Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Phased-based techniques have shown promise for scan time efficient quantification of T2 relaxation times. However, previously proposed methods use an unbalanced Gradient Echo approach, which shows residual sensitivity to B1+ and T1 changes. In this work, a dual phase-cycled balanced SSFP approach is proposed. Simulations and phantom measurements show its resilience against field inhomogeneities. Excellent agreement between phase values was obtained in phantom and simulations. Initial phantom acquisitions at 3T yield T2 maps with visually high map quality and close agreement to a spin-echo reference. Future evaluation of in vivo robustness and inter- and intra-subject repeatability is warranted.
Reliability and reproducibility of whole-brain quantitative MR relaxometry using different-channel-number coils
Authors: Sang Ling , Liu Weiyin , Chen Hu , Chen Wen
Published: August 2024

Brain MAGiC imaging became widely applied in multi-center cooperation and in an individual longitudinal follow-up; however, acquisition with a backup coil at an emergency situation (i.e., a sudden coil breakdown) or a coil with different numbers of channels has not been explored on a 1.5T scanner yet. In contrast to small variation of PD values in the whole brain, T2 values varies relatively dramatically especially in cerebellum and showed statistically different between scans using different coils. It is worth noting that existence of inter-coil relaxometry difference should be careful for diagnosis.
The effect of MultiBand acquisition on cerebral inversion recovery intravoxel incoherent motion imaging
Authors: van der Knaap Noa , Voorter Paulien , Ariës Marcel , Jansen Jacobus
Published: August 2024

The MultiBand (MB) imaging technique can reduce scan time considerably, which can be especially relevant for clinical application of techniques with extensive scan protocols, such as intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging. However, quantitative IVIM parameter estimates may be affected by the use of MB. This study is a first step to assess the comparability between IVIM acquisitions with and without MB, which has considerable implications for interpretation of IVIM results across different datasets.
Vendor neutral pulse programming: Running gammaSTAR sequences on Philips Hardware
Authors: Nagtegaal Martijn , Konstandin Simon , Hoinkiss Daniel , Gross-Weege Nicolas , Schulz Volkmar , Günther Matthias , van Osch Matthias
Published: August 2024

Pulse sequence design and development in MR is currently hindered by the possibilities to freely share pulse sequences and test these on scanners of different vendors. Vendor independent pulse programming environments provide a shareable, open, and reproducible way of pulse sequence development. An important step in this is the support on scanners of all main vendors of these protocols. In this work we show for the first time the execution of gammaSTAR imaging protocols on a Philips scanner. The obtained FLASH and RARE based images are very similar to the images obtained using the vendor’s implementation.
Effectiveness of T2-mapping imaging in assessing disease severity in Spinal muscular atrophy: preliminary study
Authors: Hu Yingyi , Huang Yang , Chen Taiya , Lu Xinguo , Fang Diangang , Deng Kan , Li Zhiyong
Published: August 2024

To evaluate the potential of T2-mapping imaging as a qMRI marker for disease severity in Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), we compared the T2 with muscle fat fraction (MFF), and clinical assessment of 13 muscles in the pelvis and thighs of 20 patients with SMA. A significant correlation was found between the mean T2 of all muscles and the patient’s clinical evaluation and MFF. Moreover, the highest mean T2 was found in the gluteus maximus, while the lowest in the adductor longus. Therefore, T2 mapping can be used as a quantitative and objective MRI technique to assess disease severity in SMA.
Application of whole-tumor histogram analysis of restriction spectrum imaging in the diagnosis of benign and malignant liver lesions
Authors: Luo Yu , Meng Nan , Shen Lei , Feng Pengyang , Li Ziqiang , Jiang Han , Jiang Han , Jiang Han , Zhang Yunfei , Dai Yongming , Wang Meiyun
Published: August 2024

Restricted spectrum imaging (RSI) is an advanced technique, which can detect the signal fractions of restricted, hindered and free diffusion of water molecules in the water compartments inside and outside the cell. However, the application of RSI in the assessment of liver disease is rare. Therefore, this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of RSI and DWI models in distinguishing benign and malignant liver lesions. Our results showed that the RSI model has better discriminative performance, and the combination of RSI parameters can further improve diagnostic performance. RSI provides a new perspective for exploring the information of tissue microenvironment, and its clinical application has broad prospects.
Preoperative evaluation of liver regeneration following hepatectomy in hepatocellular carcinoma using magnetic resonance elastography
Authors: Zhang Tong , Li Qian , Wei Yi , Tang Hehan , Nie Lisha , Wei Xiaocheng , Song Bin
Published: August 2024

The liver stiffness (LS) value based on MRE may be a useful preoperative predictor of liver regeneration in patients with HCC. The LS derived from MRE shows a significant negative correlation with fibrosis, an important predictor of liver regeneration. In the low and high parenchymal hepatic resection rate (PHRR) groups, there was no significant relationship between regeneration index (RI) and LS values of MRE. However, a negative relationship was shown between LS values and RI in the intermediate PHRR group.
Application value of restriction spectrum imaging in differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Meng Nan , Luo Yu , Shen Lei , Feng Pengyang , Li Ziqiang , Jiang Han , Zhang Yunfei , Dai Yongming , Bai Yan , Wang Meiyun
Published: August 2024

Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) can be used to evaluate the degree of tumor cell proliferation and tumor necrosis. The diffusion motion of water molecules is assumed to be Gaussian distribution, which has some limitations. In recent years, some advanced models have emerged that can provide more parameters to explore complex biological behaviors. Restricted spectral imaging (RSI) is one of them. However, the application of this model in liver disease is rare. The purpose of this study was to explore the potential value of the RSI model in the preoperative non-invasive differential diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).
Comparison of the diagnostic performance in the HCC with cirrhosis between the 2017 and 2018 versions of LI‑RADS based on Gd‑EOB‑DTPA enhanced MRI
Authors: Xing Fei , Wang Yi , Zhao Xian
Published: August 2024

The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) is widely adopted for noninvasive diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It’s updated to version 2018 recently, with some major changes compared with v2017. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic performances of LI-RADS for diagnosing HCC between v2017 and v2018 based on Gd-EOB-DTPA enhanced MRI.
Predicion of Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma using Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging
Authors: Xiong Yanxi , Ying Zhao , Liu Ailian , Xue Ren , Xu Qihao , Song Qingwei
Published: August 2024

Microvascular invasion (MVI) is an independent factor leading to poorer prognosis after liver resection and transplantation. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the discrimination power of Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging for predicting microvascular invasion Microvascular Invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Our resuts showed that DKI-based quantitative parameters might have a certain value in identifying MVI status in HCC.
Attention-based Two Stage Deep Learning Model for the Segmentation and Classification of Pelvic and Sacral Tumors on Routine MRI
Authors: Yin Ping , Hong Nan
Published: August 2024

Early detection and correct diagnosis are key to adequate and successful treatment of PSTs. Based on multi-sequence MRI images, physician’s labeling, segmentation model, and clinical features, six classification models were built. The highest scoring model (model 6) achieved 0.836 AUC, 0.781 ACC in the prospective test set, which was comparable to that of senior residents and junior resident. However, the diagnosing time of DL model is significantly shorter than physicians. Our attention-based two stage DL model allowed the accurate segmentation and classification of benign and malignant PSTs without enhanced MRI and may thus facilitate diagnosis.
Whole-tumor histogram analysis of DWI and DCE-MRI for soft tissue sarcoma: Correlation with HIF-1alpha expression
Authors: Li Xiangwen , Li Qing , shuang chen
Published: August 2024

In this study, we initially revealed the feasibility of conventional MRI features and whole-tumor histogram features of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) parameters in assessing hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) expression of soft tissue sarcomas (STS). On this basis, we performed a short-term survival analysis of the study population. The findings suggest that MRI morphological features and histogram features of quantitative parameters help predict higher HIF-1α expression and may significantly predict prognosis in patients with STS.
Comparison of Penalty-based IVIM analysis Methods for Predicting Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Kayal Esha Baidya , Kandasamy Devasenathipathy , Khare Kedar , Sharma Raju , Bakhshi Sameer , Mehndiratta Amit
Published: August 2024

Predictive performance of penalty-based IVIM analysis methodologies BE+TV and BE+HPF for response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy have been evaluated using clinical dataset with osteosarcoma in comparison with existing IVIM analysis methods. IVIM datasets before and after chemotherapy were analyzed using 5 IVIM analysis methods – Bi-exponential model and two of its segmented variants and penalty-based BE+TV and BE+HPF methods. Results showed, IVIM parameters estimated by BE+TV and BE+HPF methods produced improved prediction of response to chemotherapy in osteosarcoma than the existing IVIM analysis methods at both the time-points, before and after chemotherapy.
Evaluating age-related changes of vascular function and oxidative energy metabolism in the lower leg during a plantar flexion exercise
Authors: Kolkovsky Alfredo Lopez , Matot Béatrice , Reyngoudt Harmen , Marty Benjamin , de Almeida Araujo Ericky Caldas , Fromes Yves
Published: August 2024

The age-related loss of muscle mass, strength and quality is a multifactorial process whose mechanisms are incompletely understood. NMR allows investigating numerous physiological and biochemical variables in vivo dynamically. Here, 51 physically active subjects performed a normalized plantar flexion exercise to evaluate vascular response (blood flow, T2*, water compartmentalization), tissue oxygenation and oxidative energy metabolism (pH, mitochondrial oxidative capacity, work to [ADP] ratio). Results showed that the vascular and metabolic function was preserved in old subjects relative to young and middle-aged participants. We conclude that vascular and oxidative metabolism impairments are not a necessary condition of old age.
Deep Learning Based on Knee MRI for Fully Automated Segmentation and Precision Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout and PVNS
Authors: Wang Qizheng , Yao Meiyi , Liu Yandong , Song Xinhang , Xing Xiaoying , Chen Yongye , Liu Ke , Zhao Weili , Cheng Xiaoguang , Jiang Shuqiang , Lang Ning
Published: August 2024

Segmentation of synovial-related structures in MRI images can help assess synovitis-effusion, infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) changes, and response to treatment, which is important for the clinical diagnosis of knee disease. However, segmenting images manually, which depends on the skill and experience of the physician; furthermore, it is time-consuming for radiologists. In this study, a deep learning pipeline for the 3D segmentation of the suprapatellar capsule (SC) and IPFP and knee synovitis classification were developed using proton density (PD)-weighted images of sagittal fat-suppressed knees, the most commonly used sequence in clinical practice, to support clinical decision-making.
Effect of levodopa on brain functional network connectivity in Parkinson’s disease patients with MCI.
Authors: Sreenivasan Karthik , Zhuang Xiaowei , Caldwell Jessica , Ritter Aaron , Cordes Dietmar , Mari Zoltan , Stover Natividad , Yacoubian Talene , Mishra Virendra
Published: August 2024

Mild cognitive impairment in PD patients (PD-MCI) is shown to be a risk factor for the development of dementia over time. However, the distinct factors that contribute to conversion from MCI to dementia are not completely understood. While earlier studies have identified altered functional connectivity (FC) it is still not clear whether PD medication affects brain FC. In the current study, we aim to quantify the impact of medication effect on FC in PD-MCI using resting-state functional MRI. Our findings suggest that altered FC was observed between the groups and with respect to the medication state in the PD-MCI group.
Disrupted Brain Structural Network Connection in de novo Parkinson’s Disease with Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder
Authors: Chen Amei , Huang Junxiang , Huang Xiaofei , Cheng Xiaofang , Xu Yongzhou , Wei Xinhua
Published: August 2024

To investigate the changes of white matter structural network connectivity in PD patients with probably rapid movement sleep behavior disorder (PD-pRBD). This study included PD-pRBD (n = 74) and PD with no probably RBD (PD-npRBD)(n = 97) and healthy contral (HC, n=73). The results showed that compared with the PD-npRBD group, the nodal efficiency (Ne) of the right insula and left middle frontal gyrus increased, while the Ne of the left temporal pole decreased. We conclude that changes in the right insula, left temporal pole and left middle frontal gyrus Ne may play key roles in the pathogenesis of PD-RBD.
Abnormalities of Grey Matter Volume in Parkinson’s Disease with Depression: A Voxel-Based Morphometry Study
Authors: Cao Jiajun , Qu Mingrui , Gao Bingbing , Jiang Yuhan , Liu Yangyingqiu , Xie Lizhi , Miao Yanwei
Published: August 2024

Depressive symptoms are common in Parkinson’s disease (PD), but the pathophysiology and neural basis underlying depression in PD is complex. To shed more light on the abnormal regions and distribution characteristics of gray matter in PD patients with depression (DPD), we conducted a Voxel-Based Morphometry (VBM) study. Compared with PD with non-depression (NDPD) patients, the gray matter volume of DPD patients decreased abnormally in the right superior temporal gyrus, right inferior temporal gyrus, left orbital superior frontal gyrus and left dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus. We speculate that changes in the brain regions are essential in the pathophysiology of DPD.
Intracranial arterial pulsatility assessed by 4D-flow imaging is associated with white matter degeneration
Authors: Xie Linyun , Zhang Yao , Hong Hui , Xu Shan , Cui Lei , Hong Luwei , Li Jixuan , Huang Peiyu
Published: August 2024

We investigate the association between the intracranial pulsatility assessed by 4D-flow imaging and white matter degeneration in a community cohort. White matter free water and tissue fractional anisotropy were used to reflect white matter degeneration. We found that the intracranial arterial pulsatility in different vessel segments was positively associated with increased free water, and negatively associated with tissue fractional anisotropy. After adjusting for age and vascular risk factors, the associations disappeared. Further investigations in larger samples are warranted.
Characterizing Quantitative Magnetization Transfer Maps from an MR-Linac in Regions of Progression in Biopsy-Only Glioblastoma
Authors: Chan Rachel , Lawrence Liam , Soliman Hany , Ruschin Mark , Stewart James , Theriault Aimee , Tseng Chia-Lin , Myrehaug Sten , Detsky Jay , Maralani Pejman , Chen Hanbo , Tran Brandon , Lim-Fat Mary Jane , Das Sunit , Stanisz Greg , Sahgal Arjun , Lau Angus
Published: August 2024

In biopsy-only glioblastoma patients scanned and treated on a 1.5T MR-Linac, this study quantifies the relationship between the quantitative magnetization transfer (qMT) semi-solid fraction and enhancing regions seen on post-contrast T1-weighted imaging on follow-up MRI scans. Metrics were computed to assess the spatial overlap between low semi-solid fraction regions and enhancing regions. In certain patients, the low semi-solid fraction region at the time of treatment correlated with enhancing region at follow up imaging. Our results suggest reduced semi-solid fraction values precede tumour progression, which could be used for guiding dose adaptation in radiation therapy.
A robust MRSI protocol to investigate glutamatergic mechanisms in glioma
Authors: Alcicek Seyma , Ronellenfitsch Michael W. , Thomas Dennis C. , Steinbach Joachim P. , Prinz Vincent , Forster Marie-Thérèse , Hattingen Elke , Pilatus Ulrich , Wenger Katharina J.
Published: August 2024

Glutamate metabolism plays a significant role in glioma invasion and growth and may lead to glioma-associated epileptic discharges and excitotoxicity. In in vivo MR spectroscopy, the molecular similarity of glutamate and glutamine results in overlapped, hence indistinguishable, spectral peaks and hinders their quantification. Here, we propose the use of J-modulation at optimum echo time for accurate and separate quantification of glutamate and glutamine. To study the reproducibility of this approach, in vivo MRSI sLASER measurement at 120 ms echo time was evaluated in three healthy subjects in two separate sessions, and the findings are reported.
Deuterated Vitamin C as a new probe for the assessment of in vivo oxidative stress using deuterium metabolic imaging and 13C HP MRS
Authors: Patel Saket , Kim Nathaniel , Peyear Thasin , Keshari Kayvan
Published: August 2024

A chemical synthesis of C-4 deuterated ascorbic acid as a potential new deuterium metabolic imaging marker for in vivo VitC metabolism. Additionally, we have developed new HP methods for Vit C as well as its oxidized analogue, DHA, to be used as a 13C HP MRS substrates. Furthermore, deuteration increases the 13C T1 of HP DHA and improved polarization from optimized HP formulations along with enhanced 13C T1 will result in better quantification of oxidative stress in vivo. The aim is to implement both DMI and HP MRS in brain tumor models to understand the anticancer activity of VitC.
Differences in Brain Structural and Metabolic Phenotype in Mouse Models of Down Syndrome and Brain Tumors
Authors: Serkova Natalie , Araya Paula , Cain Sharon , Steiner Jenna , Sullivan Kelly , Espinoza Joaquin
Published: August 2024

Gliomas are exceedingly rare in Down Syndrome (DS). This study characterizes metabolic biomarkers and structural differences in the brains of mouse DS models and compare them to glioma models. Analysis of the age-dependent differences in the metabolic profile was carried out by 1H-NMR metabolomics and compartmental brain volumes of mouse brains were assessed from T2-weighted MRI. A significant age-dependent neuronal loss in the cortex and hippocampus, with a hyperventricular profile, was observed in DS mice. Highly decreased lactate and amino acid concentrations were observed in DS, in contrast to glioma extracts, indicative of decreased metabolic dependency on glycolysis and proteolysis.
Fetal brain Super-Resolution Reconstruction reliability from clinical MRI data
Authors: Ciceri Tommaso , Squarcina Letizia , Ferro Adele , Montano Florian , Bertoldo Alessandra , Persico Nicola , Boito Simona , Triulzi Fabio , Conte Giorgio , Brambilla Paolo , Peruzzo Denis
Published: August 2024

In this study, we characterized the geometric reliability of the Super-Resolution (SR) images reconstructed via NiftyMIC and MIALSRTK toolkits over a common clinical fetal MR dataset (20-21 weeks of gestation). We compare 15 biometric measures derived from the acquired 2D images with those derived from the SR brain volumes. Furthermore, we examined two different acquisition sequences (TSE Vs. b-FFE) to evaluate which of them lead to more reliable measures and high-resolution reconstructions. Our findings strengthen the adoption of SR toolkits for fetal brain reconstructions to perform biometry evaluations, suggesting to use TSE sequences.
T1 and T2 measurements from Neonates at 7 Tesla
Authors: Malik Shaihan , Tomi-Tricot Raphael , Bridgen Philippa , Price Anthony , Quirke Megan , Cromb Daniel , Cawley Paul , De Vita Enrico , O’Muircheartaigh Jonathan , Counsell Serena , Giles Sharon , Rutherford Mary , Edwards A. David , Hajnal Joseph , Arichi Tomoki
Published: August 2024

T1 and T2 measurements were made in 8 neonates (median age 42+1 weeks) scanned on a 7 Tesla MRI system, using inversion recovery and spin echo methods respectively. The aim of this study is to help to establish expected ranges, to prepare for systematic relaxometry studies, and to identify optimal operating points for imaging neonates at ultra-high field. Region of interest measurements show strong age dependence of T1, and some variation in T2 (particularly in frontal white matter). The measured T1 times are longer than in adults at 7T, and also longer than in neonates imaged on lower field systems.
High Flip Angle Chemical-Shift Encoded MRI for Imaging Fetal Adipose Tissue
Authors: Giza Stephanie , Sethi Simran , Eastabrook Genevieve , de Vrijer Barbra , McKenzie Charles
Published: August 2024

Fat fractions in fetal adipose tissue vary across gestation and across different regions of the body, and can be measured by chemical shift encoded MRI which provides accurate measurements of fat fraction above 10%. The assessment of lower fat fractions can be improved by increasing flip angle, but this introduces T1 bias. We demonstrated that this T1 bias can be corrected using fetal adipose tissue water and lipid T1 values, preserving accuracy of the fat fraction measurement while simultaneously improving its precision in fetal adipose tissue.
Ultra-high field characterisation of resting state networks in the neonatal brain
Authors: Arichi Tomoki , Bridgen Philippa , Tomi-Tricot Raphael , Cromb Daniel , Cawley Paul , Quirke Megan , Price Anthony , De Vita Enrico , O'Muircheartaigh Jonathan , Counsell Serena , Edwards A David , Hajnal Joseph , Malik Shaihan
Published: August 2024

Acquiring BOLD fMRI data at ultra-high field offers marked gains in sensitivity and spatial specificity including within cortical layers and distinct subcortical nuclei. We describe the first pilot data demonstrating feasibility of characterizing resting state networks in the neonatal brain using a 7 Tesla system. In 3 neonates imaged at full term, we show that in addition to the canonical networks seen at standard field strengths, ultra-high field fMRI enables network delineation with higher spatial specificity, including better localization to the cortex and with definition of individual networks corresponding to distinct anatomical regions and tissues.
Synthetic MRI and FSE-PROPELLER duo diffusion-weighted imaging to differentiate malignant from benign head and neck tumors
Authors: Wen Baohong , Zhang Yong , Cheng Jingliang , Xu Tianyong , Hua Xiaoxia , Xie Lizhi
Published: August 2024

Accurate determination of the preoperative classification of histology of head and neck tumor remains a challenge. The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility and capability of synthetic MRI and stimulus and fast spin echo diffusion-weighted imaging (FSE-PROPELLER duo-DWI) for the differentiation of malignant from benign head and neck tumors. The results quantitively demonstrated the feasibility and also showed that T2 value is comparable to ADC value, and the combination of T2 and ADC values could provide improved diagnostic efficacy.
Fast Magnetization-Prepared Gradient Echo Sequences for 3D-T1rho Mapping of the Knee Joint Using Optimized Variable Flip-Angles
Authors: Zibetti Marcelo , De Moura Hector , Keerthivasan Mahesh , Regatte Ravinder
Published: August 2024

We proposed an efficient magnetization-prepared gradient echo (MP-GRE) sequence that uses optimized variable flip-angles (OVFA) to reduce acquisition time by 4x while increasing SNR when compared to magnetization-prepared angle-modulated partitioned k-space spoiled GRE snapshots (MAPSS), typically used for T1rho mapping. The proposed OVFA based sequence can improve the spatial resolution of T1rho mapping by 4x, with nearly same SNR and scan time as MAPSS.
View ordering in PROPELLER for MSK applications
Authors: Rydén Henric , van Niekerk Adam , Borbas Matea , Skorpil Mikael
Published: August 2024

A novel view ordering scheme for RARE (FSE/PROPELLER) imaging is proposed and compared with the vendor solution, particularly suited for MSK applications where intermediate TE is desired.
Flow-suppressed 2D Spin-Echo EPI with high B1-insensitivity using Hyperbolic Secant Pulses
Authors: Keum Jae-Youn , Yoon Jeong Hee , Garwood Michael , Park Jang-Yeon
Published: August 2024

Blood flow artifacts sometimes occur in 2D spin-echo sequence despite its intrinsic flow-suppression effect. Pre-saturation pulses have widely been used for flow-suppression, but it has several disadvantages such as requirement of additional RF pulses and being not effective at suppressing relatively slow blood flow signal. In this study, we propose a more effective flow-suppressed spin-echo sequence using hyperbolic-secant (HS) pulses for π/2-excitation and π-refocusing. The proposed method was applied to 2D spin-echo diffusion EPI for liver imaging.
FGPA based accelerator for pMRI using coil compression
Authors: Gul Tayaba , Inam Omiar , Basit Abdul , Naeem Nimra , Omer Hammad
Published: August 2024

Parallel MRI (e.g., SENSE, GRAPPA) accelerates the data acquisition in modern clinical scanners using multiple receiver coils. However, it results in more computational demands on general purpose computers. Coil compression is a promising way to address the computational cost and memory requirements associated with a large number of receiver coils. In this work, a novel FPGA based hardware accelerator is designed to perform coil compression using QR decomposition. In-vivo reconstruction results from 30 coil cardiac data set, show that the proposed accelerator elevates the speed and memory constraints while preserving the image quality.
NiGSP: Graph Signal Processing on multimodal MRI data.
Authors: Moia Stefano , Brügger Julia , Egger Philip , Evangelista Giorgia , Hummel Friedhelm , Preti Maria Giulia , Van De Ville Dimitri
Published: August 2024

NiGSP is a python-based toolbox aimed at facilitating the adoption of graph signal processing with an emphasis on multimodal brain imaging data. We present its standard workflow, that allows basic filtering operations and metrics computations, and we introduce a novel application to cerebral stroke consisting in the creation of a subject-specific anatomical lesion-based filter to be applied on functional MRI timeseries.
Open-source tools for multi-center multi-platform 0.55T relaxometry studies
Authors: Tasdelen Bilal , Ramasawmy Rajiv , Keenan Kathryn , Campbell-Washburn Adrienne , Nayak Krishna
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate quantitative T1 and T2 mapping tools, built from open-source components Pulseq and qMRLab, suitable for multi-center multi-platform studies. The end-to-end solution includes acquisition, reconstruction, ROI analysis, and repeatability testing. The tools are demonstrated in the context of 0.55T relaxometry at two different sites and three scanners with two different hardware and software specifications. Relaxometry results are validated against results derived from vendor-provided sequences.
SimMRI – A web-based MR Image Simulator for easy accessible MRI teaching
Authors: Tönnes Christian , Licht Christian , Schad Lothar , Zöllner Frank
Published: August 2024

SimMRI is a Web-Based MRI simulator developed for teaching students. It allows the simulation of multiple sequences for 1H and 23Na imaging on different brain datasets. The software enables users to customize parameters for each sequence, add noise, or change the voxel count for every dimension of the image. Additionally, the software provides compressed sensing reconstruction with three k-space subsampling schemes. The computation is solely performed on the client and therefore well suited for large student groups. The code, written in JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and c compiled to WebASM, is open source and supports easy inclusion of new sequences.
MRI simulation of moving objects based on the Lagrange description of Bloch equations
Authors: Kose Katsumi , Kose Ryoichi , Tamada Daiki , Motosugi Utaroh
Published: August 2024

To investigate the possibility and limitation of MRI simulations based on the Lagrange description, MRI experiments and simulations of moving objects were performed. As a result, we were able to obtain simulated MR images that almost reproduced the experimental results within practical computation time. However, it was found that the T2 coherence effect should be reduced for moving objects. It was also found that more precise simulation is necessary to reproduce the detailed motion artifacts.
A diffusion-weighted MRI pulse sequence development toolbox in the open source GinkgoSequence framework
Authors: Artiges Anaïs , Granier Éléa , Uszynski Ivy , Mauconduit Franck , Ciuciu Philippe , Poupon Cyril
Published: August 2024

Developing MRI pulse sequences demands to access proprietary sequences, to open up parts of the code provided by the manufacturer, and to deal with intellectual property issues. To address these limitations, we have provided the community with GinkgoSequence, a modular and open-source MRI pulse sequence development framework for Siemens devices. In this work, we present the addition of a new diffusion-weighted sequences development toolbox in the existing GinkgoSequence framework. It includes trapezoidal and free-waveform diffusion gradients, fat saturation, echo-planar reading, partial Fourier and GRAPPA accelerations, and stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM). To assess its quality, it has been tested in-vivo.
Classification of low- and high-grade gliomas through multimodal temporal MRI and PET data
Authors: Inglese Marianna , Ferrante Matteo , Boccato Tommaso , Islam Shah , Williams Matthew , Waldman Adam , O'Neill Kevin , Aboagye Eric , Toschi Nicola
Published: August 2024

Stratifying human brain gliomas using imaging techniques is extremely challenging. Valuable insight into the characterization and classification of gliomas can be provided by integrating two imaging modalities, i.e. 18F-FPIA PET and MRI. This study introduces a new approach for glioma stratification based on the extraction of temporal features from tissue time activity curves (TACs) extracted from dynamic PET/MRI data. We exploit tissue-specific biochemical properties embedded in the TACs through deep learning and achieve good discrimination results while foregoing pharmacokinetic fitting and hence invasive measurement of the AIF.
Exposure to Welding Fumes: Evaluating the metabolite-metal relationship
Authors: Nossa Gianna , Monsivais Humberto , Lee Chang Guen , Park Jae Hong , Dydak Ulrike
Published: August 2024

Chronic exposure to Mn and Fe, through inhalation of welding fumes, is known to cause neurotoxicity. In this MRS study, we aim to determine if toenail Mn and Fe levels can be predictive of neurotoxicity identified through changes in GABA, GSH, and/or Glu concentrations. Significant GABA and GSH correlations with Fe indicate that toenail Fe concentrations can reflect decreased GABA and GSH levels in the welders’ brain. This emphasizes that Fe should not be ignored and might contribute to oxidative stress in Mn neurotoxicity.
Comparison of Single-Slice Liver R2* Estimation with FerriSmart for Assessment of Hepatic Iron overload
Authors: Esparza Juan , Morin Cara , Goode Chris , Abramson Zachary , Tipirneni-Sajja Aaryani
Published: August 2024

FerriScan is considered the gold standard to quantify liver iron content (LIC) by MRI. Recently, FerriSmart, an AI—based algorithm was developed to permit faster postprocessing of R2-based LIC. To our knowledge, FerriSmart results have not been compared to R2*-LIC methods. In this work, R2*, R2*-LIC, and FerriSmart LIC were compared to evaluate their agreement.
Investigating Racial Disparities for the Performance of mpMRI in Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zabihollahy Fatemeh , Miao Qi , Sonni Ida , Kim Harrison , Reiter Robert , Raman Steven , Sung Kyunghyun
Published: August 2024

Race and ethnicity strongly impact the risk of prostate cancer (PCa). In this study, the differences in the performance of mpMRI for PCa diagnosis are investigated between African American (AA) and Caucasian American (CA) men. After matching commonly known clinical risk factors, the diagnostic performances were compared between two racial groups regarding cancer prevalence, detection rates, and positive predictive values. Our result demonstrated that there are significant differences between AA and CA men in detecting clinically significant PCa when stratified by different prostate zones.
Gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI-based assessment of imaging features in patients with CK19-positive small hepatocellular carcinoma (≤3 cm)
Authors: Liu Maotong , Zhang Tao , Zhang Xue-Qin , Xu Lei , Zhao Xian-ce
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the preoperative imaging findings of CK19-positive patients with HCC less than 3 cm with those of CK19-negative patients with small HCC to determine the prognosis of patients with CK19-positive small HCC after radical resection. We obtained the important predictive parameters of CK-19 positive small liver cancer patients by qualitatively and quantitatively comparing the imaging data and relevant clinical parameters of these patients before surgery. Our study showed that rim APHE in gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging may help to predict early (2 years) postoperative recurrence in patients with CK19-positive small HCC.
Liver lesion detection : Comparison of different flip angle and delay time
Authors: Ren Xue , Zhao Ying , Song Qingwei , Wu Zhigang , Liu Ailian
Published: August 2024

Detection of liver lesion remains challenge since the contrast to noise ratio is always changing after intravenous bolus injection of Gd-BOPTA between lesion and liver tissue. The purpose of the study was to compare the lesion-to-liver CNR for different schemes using different flip angle and delay time. The results shows that the protocol of 60min FA10°could be used as the preferred scanning parameter, it could also be used to save the scan time.
Tumor-liver biomechanical interaction investigated by multifrequency MR elastography in patients with HCC
Authors: Zhou Jiahao , Li Ruokun , Guo Jing , Sack Ingolf , Yan Fuhua
Published: August 2024

Tumor-liver biomechanical interaction investigated by multifrequency MR elastography in patients with HCC