bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual-Echo UTE Off-resonance Saturation Contrast (dual-UTE-OSC) for Morphological and Quantitative Imaging of Craniofacial Cortical Bone
Authors: Suprana Arya , Athertya Jiyo , Chen Justin , Yang Zijin , Lo James , Chen Xiaojun , Jerban Saeed , Du Jiang
Published: August 2024

Recent developments in ultrashort time echo (UTE) MRI have enabled the detection of short T2 species such as cortical bone. MR-based cortical bone imaging has the potential to serve as a non-invasive alternative to computed tomography (CT). In this study, 3D UTE sequences with a combination of varying echo time and RF pulse duration, with and without off-resonance saturation pulse, are utilized to image the human skull. Image subtraction and normalization are used to highlight cortical bone in the craniofacial region. Magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) maps can also be generated for quantitative bone imaging.
Optimized Single-Shot EPI Sequence for Abdominal T2 Quantification: Comparison with CPMG Based Technique
Authors: Han Fei , Goerke Ute , Altbach Maria , Deshpande Vibhas
Published: August 2024

Conventional CPMG-based T2 quantitative approaches are often based on prolonged scan and complicated signal modeling, with multiple confounders that affects the T2 accuracy. In this work, we explore an alternative T2 quantitative strategy utilizing the Single-Shot EPI (SS-EPI) sequence. Phantom and in-vivo abdominal imaging results shows that despite the inferior spatial resolution, the SS-EPI could provide descent image quality and reliable T2 maps from a faster scan. Common confounders in the CPMG based approach seems not affecting the T2 values from the SS-EPI. The SS-EPI is an attractive alternative approach for T2 quantification for the abdomen and beyond.
Standardized volume and IVIM parameters of spleen in patients with acute leukemia: the value of evaluating tumor burden and prognosis
Authors: Bian Wenjin , Niu Jinliang , Li jianting , Wu Wenqi
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the values of standardized volume and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) parameters of spleen in evaluating tumor burden and prognosis in newly diagnosed acute leukemia (AL). Eighty-five AL patients and seventy-four healthy volunteers were recruited and underwent IVIM in the abdomen on a 3.0T MRI system. The results showed standardized volume and IVIM parameters of spleen were associated with tumor burden and treatment response in AL, and 218.1cm3 was the threshold of standardized spleen volume for predicting treatment response, which indicated that they can be potentially useful in tailoring the individualized treatment plan for each patient.
Simultaneous 3D Whole-Heart Bright-Blood and Black-Blood Imaging with iNAV-based Non-Rigid Motion-Corrected Reconstruction at 0.55T
Authors: Castillo-Passi Carlos , Crabb Michael , Muñoz Camila , Tripp Donovan , Kunze Karl , Neji Radhouene , Irarrazaval Pablo , Prieto Claudia , Botnar Rene
Published: August 2024

In this work, we demonstrate the feasibility of free-breathing whole-heart simultaneous bright-blood and black-blood imaging at 0.55T. We implemented an image navigator (iNAV)-based non-rigid motion-corrected 2 heartbeat sequence with 100% respiratory scan efficiency and high-dimensional patch-based low-rank (HD-PROST) denoising. The research sequence was validated on one healthy subject, showing simultaneous 3D visualization of cardiovascular anatomy on bright and black blood images at 0.55T in under 12 minutes scan time.
Deep Learning-Based Automatic Segmentation of Non-contrast Coronary Magnetic Resonance Angiography Images
Authors: Lin Lu , Jiang Difei , Xiao Yueting , Wang Yining
Published: August 2024

Coronary Magnetic Resonance Angiography (CMRA) is the only non-invasive coronary artery imaging method without radiation exposure and contrast media, and its application in clinical practice has been increasing. However, image post-processing for clinical diagnosis is time-consuming and requires expertise for radiologists. We proposed a three-dimensional U-Net-based automatic method for CMRA images by transfer learning from a pre-trained model of coronary computed tomography angiography(CCTA) to obtain accurate segmentation of coronary arteries.
Native MR angiography of the thorax using Compressed Sensing and 1-point Dixon at 3T: Comparison with standard fat suppression and 2-point Dixon
Authors: Schmidt Michaela , Nickel Marcel , Giese Daniel
Published: August 2024

For increased vessel contrast a robust fat suppression of adjacent fat is desirable in MR angiography. While spectral fat suppression can be insufficient, fat separation based on 2-point Dixon requires the acquisition of a second echo. A 1-point Dixon approach based on opposed-phase imaging is presented here that allows to suppress fat dominated voxels effectively while keeping scan efficiency. The approach is evaluated in volunteers and compared to conventional approaches regarding image quality, artifacts, fat suppression and vessel diameter.
High-Resolution Heart-Saturated TOF (HRHS-TOF): A novel MRI protocol for atherosclerotic plaque imaging on mice in vivo
Authors: Gao Nan , Wang Yuqing , He Chengqin , Song Xiaolei
Published: August 2024

Time of flight (TOF) is the most commonly used bright blood MRI method for imaging the human vascular system. However, there were several challenges when TOF was used for imaging AS plaque in mice. This study proposed a novel MRI protocol, High-Resolution Heart-Saturated TOF (HRHS-TOF), imaging only AS plaque without background information. Moreover, this protocol could perform without measurement of the T1 value of blood in advance. ApoE−/− mice were scanned to investigate the feasibility and data interpretation of HRHS-TOF protocol.
A longitudinal neuroimaging study in mice on the effects of chronic high altitude exposure and repetitive traumatic brain injury
Authors: Korotcov Alexandru , Browne Caroline , Bosomtwi Asamoah , Jaiswal Shalini , Cramer Nathan , Xu Xiufen , Whiting Kathleen , Stimpson Cheryl , Dardzinski Bernard , Perl Daniel , Dickstein Dara , Galdzicki Zygmunt
Published: August 2024

Chronic exposure to high altitude (HA) can lead to maladaptive physiological and pathological changes, resulting in an increased risk for neurological impairment. Whether the occurrence of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) at HA exacerbates neurobehavioral deficits remains uncertain. A series of experiments was conducted to test the impact of mTBI in the context of HA using established models of repetitive close head injury and simulated HA (5000m). A longitudinal study design was applied to identify the effects of chronic HA exposure (12 weeks) and mTBI in mice on neurobehavioral and neuroimaging biomarkers using PET and MRI.
Characterization of a controlled cortical impact brain injury and metabolic changes using magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Bosomtwi Asamoah , Ara Roxan , Kong Fengchong , Lu Yujiao , DHANDAPANI Krishnan
Published: August 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) diagnosis and treatment is a top priority for military medicine. Several preclinical models of TBI have been developed to help elucidate the etiology of brain injury but these models typically depend on behavioral outcomes to indicate injury severity. In this project we used magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to investigate a noninvasive, longitudinal technique to detect changes in brain metabolites after TBI
Interaction Between ACTH and Hippocampal Dynamic Functional Connectivity onPersonality Traits in Bipolar Disorder with Suicidal Attempt
Authors: Chen Pan , Wang Ying , Zhong Shuming , Chen Guanmao , Qian Long
Published: August 2024

The goal of this study was to investigate the underlying mechanisms of suicidal behavior by detecting the dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) variability of hippocampus and HPA axis activity, as well as their relationship with personality traits in BD with suicidal attempt (SA). We assessed the activity of the HPA axis by measuring morning plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol (CORT) levels. All participants underwent personality assessment using Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2. BD with SA exhibited increased dFC variability of the hippocampal-temporal cortex and less HPA axis hyperactivity, which may both together lead to the possibility of changes in personality traits.
Altered Dynamic in Functional Connectivity Density in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Resting-State FMRI Study
Authors: Lin Jia-Hui , Lin Jia-Hui , Dong Qiu-Yi , Cao Yun-Bin , Chen Hua-Jun
Published: August 2024

This is the first study on alterations in the patterns of dynamic functional connection density (dFCD) involving ALS. We obtained resting-state fMRI data from ALS and healthy controls (HCs). We calculated the functional connectivity (FC) and the functional connection density (FCD) value. dFCD was assessed by sliding-window correlation method. The standard deviation of dFCD can measure dFCD variability. The dFCD variability was reduced in some brain region in HC group, whereas increase was observed in some brain region of ALS patients. dFCD variability can distinguish two groups. ALS patients exhibit aberrant dynamic property in brain functional architecture.
Tumor habitat-derived diffusion spectrum imaging features in evaluating gliomas-A comparative study with DKI
Authors: Zeng Shanmei , Ma Zuliwei , Ma Hui , Xie Dingxiang , Huang Yingqian , Wang Mengzhu , Zeng Wenting , Lin Fangzeng , Yang Zhiyun , Chu Jianping , Zhao Jing
Published: August 2024

Currently, in diffuse glioma, in addition to histopathology, the molecular features have an important role in glioma diagnosis. As a new computing framework for diffusion spectrum imaging (DSI), mean apparent propagator (MAP) could investigate more subtle information of tumor microstructures than the Gaussian diffusion models, while MAP has not been studied much in glioma. Besides, the analysis of tumor habitat could reflect the glioma heterogeneity. Hence, we aim to analyze the tumor habitat-derived MAP metrics and further explore their clinical value in glioma evaluation, meanwhile, we introduce Diffusion-kurtosis imaging (DKI) as a reference to compare the diagnostic efficiency of DSI.
Whole-tumor ADC Histogram Analysis in evaluating Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma heterogeneity and predicting Cervical Lymph Node Metastases
Authors: Li Xinying , Xue Ke , Yang Xing , Dai Yongming , Tian Zhen , Wu Yingwei
Published: August 2024

Tumor heterogeneity occurred frequently in patients with SCC and associated with poor prognosis. Compared to clinic TNM stage or the histological grade, the histological heterogeneity has not been well addressed yet. Our results clearly demonstrated that higher incidence of CNM was observed in histological hetero-group than that in homo-group. whole-lesion ADC histogram metrics presented lower values in hetero-group and in CNM+ group. ADC75th and kurtosis were two independent prognostic factors for evaluating the CNM status. Whole-tumor ADC histogram offered an approach for detecting intra-tumoral heterogeneity and predicting cervical lymph node metastases status.
Denoising Simulated Low-Field MRI (70mT) using Denoising AutoEncoders (DAE) and Cycle-Consistent Generative Adversarial Network (Cycle-GAN)
Authors: Vega Fernando , Addeh Abdoljalil , MacDonald M. Ethan
Published: August 2024

In this work, a denoising Cycle-GAN is implemented to yield high-field, high resolution, high signal-to-noise ratio MRI images from simulated low-field, low resolution, low signal-to-noise MRI images. Resampling and additive Rician noise were used to simulate low-field MRI. Images were utilized to train a DAE and Cycle-GAN, with paired and unpaired cases, respectively. Both networks were evaluated using SSIM and PSNR image quality metrics. This work demonstrates the use of advanced machine learning to improve low-field MRI images that can outperform classical denoising autoencoders and does not require image pairs.
Does simultaneous multi-slice technique affect quantitative measurements of diffusion-weighted MR imaging in hepatocellular carcinoma?
Authors: Ye Zheng , Yao Shan , Yang Ting , Li Qing , Grimm Robert , Li Zhenlin , Song Bin
Published: August 2024

Although diffusion weighted MR imaging is of great importance in the diagnosis and evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), it is limited by long acquisition times. Simultaneous multi-slice (SMS) technique can reduce scan time and has been proved to be feasible in liver imaging. Our study included twenty patients with HCC, and acquired conventional and SMS-accelerated diffusion data with different models (DWI, DKI and IVIM). By analyzing quantitative parametric maps, we found SMS technique did not affect the quantitative measurements of HCC. However, the difference of mean kurtosis between conventional and SMS-accelerated DKI in liver parenchyma should be noted.
T1-compesated quantification of NOE and amide for brain tumor patients using a QUEST-like 10-point fitting
Authors: Wang Chu , Liu Chuyu , Zhao Benqi , Zheng Zhuozhao , Song Xiaolei
Published: August 2024

CEST MRI is a promising molecular imaging technique, but the in vivo quantification inherently faces challenges because of multiple types of signal contaminations. Herein we introduced a QUEST-like 10-point fitting method for simultaneous NOE and amide quantification at 3T with reduced T1 contamination. The quantification method was evaluated by simulations and phantom experiments. Furthermore, for glioblastoma patients, the highlighted regions on fitted amide images are consistent with the hyperintensities on Gd-T1W maps, which is a smaller enhanced area than those on conventional APTw images. The initial results on tumor patients indicate its potential for clinical use.
Patient-specific respiratory liver motion analysis for individual motion-resolved reconstruction
Authors: Spieker Veronika , Stelter Jonathan , Zimmer Veronika , Weiss Kilian , Braren Rickmer , Karampinos Dimitrios , Schnabel Julia
Published: August 2024

Respiratory motion is a major source of artefacts in abdominal MRI and varies considerably across subjects. Motion-resolved strategies utilize the periodic nature of respiratory motion, but do not always consider absolute patient-specific motion information. The purpose of the present work is to develop a framework incorporating the patient-specific absolute body motion into a motion-resolved reconstruction (XD-GRASP), while adapting different motion binning strategies. To explore the potential of respiratory motion knowledge for MR reconstruction, individual absolute body motion, i.e. of the liver, is identified.
Evaluation of Confounding Influence of Fat on Hepatic Quantitative Parametric Mapping
Authors: Ramaniharan Anandh Kilpattu , Manhard Mary Kate , Tkach Jean , Trout Andrew , Dillman Jonathan , Pednekar Amol
Published: August 2024

Quantitative parametric mapping is an increasingly important tool for non-invasive assessment of liver disease. The extent of change in both water and fat content in the liver is dependent on the type and stage of the disease. Thus, proton density fat fraction (PDFF%) can have a confounding influence on the longitudinal change in estimated hepatic T1, T2, and T2* measurements. In 14 research participants, T1 was proportionately underestimated (4.70 (2.85, 6.54) ms/PDFF%) and T2 was proportionately overestimated (-0.60 (-0.76, -0.43) ms/PDFF%) with non-fat-suppressed parametric map compared to analogous estimates with fat-suppressed parametric maps, while T2* estimates were insensitive to PDFF.
Total Knee Replacement Prediction using Twin Class Distribution Estimation
Authors: Zhang Chaojie , Chen Shengjia , Huang Haoxu , Rajamohan Haresh Rengaraj , Park Jungkyu , Kasmanoff Noah , Cho Kyunghyun , Chang Gregory , Kijowski Richard , Deniz Cem
Published: August 2024

Our study implemented the self-supervised learning method, Twin Class Distribution Estimation, with unlabeled knee MR images. The self-supervised pretraining improves the downstream analysis in predicting total knee replacement within 9 years using labeled knee MR images. The self-supervised features are shown to be efficient classifiers in TKR prediction.
Structural and Neuroradiological Findings in COVID-19 Patients with Post-COVID Neurological Symptoms with Ultrahigh Field 7T MRI
Authors: Rashid Shams , Khegai Oleksandr , Jette Nathalie , Belani Puneet , Pawha Puneet , Saju Sera , Qadi Ameen Al , Navis Allison , Mathew Brian , Goldstein Jonathan , Gururangan Kapil , Hao Qing , Singh Anuradha , Becker Jacqueline , Delman Bradley , Balchandani Priti
Published: August 2024

We present preliminary findings of neuroradiological analysis and FreeSurfer-based cortical segmentation analysis which show changes in deep gray matter structures from ultrahigh field MR neuroimaging at 7T in patients with post-COVID neurological symptoms. 8 hippocampal subfields and 4 amygdala subnuclei had significantly increased volume in a cohort of 12 COVID-19 patients with post-COVID neurological symptoms compared to matched healthy controls. These changes may indicate neuroinflammation of the hippocampus and amygdala in COVID-19, which may be related to the neurological symptoms of memory impairment, “brain fog” and anxiety in our COVID patient cohort.
Structural Brain Differences and Cognitive Performance between patients with Long-COVID and Normal Recovery
Authors: Nelson Breanna , Parag Nishtha , Farah Lea , Kuivi Portia , Alimohamed Alysha , Bariana Harneet , Way Bella , Song Catie , Grier Ava , DeMarni Chiara , Stubbs Jacob , Harper Megan , Su Wayne , Chen Johnson , McKenzie Jessamyn , Sossi Vesna , Sekhon Mypinder , Lang Donna , Stoessl Jonathan , Wellington Cheryl , Silverberg Noah , Panenka William
Published: August 2024

Previous research suggests that COVID-19 infection may be associated with brain changes that are similar to a decade of aging.1 It is unknown whether symptom duration influences brain structure. We compared participants with COVID-19 symptoms for more than 2 months (long-COVID) (n=43) to participants who recovered within 2 months (normal recovery) (n=56). We assessed white matter with diffusion tensor imaging, regional brain volumes using Freesurfer, and cognition using the NIH Toolbox. Although the effect of age on MRI indices and cognition was readily detectable, we found no differences between long-COVID and normal recovery on brain structure or cognitive performance.
COVID-19 olfactory rehabilitation assessment through fMRI and VBM
Authors: García-Polo Pablo , Torrado-Carvajal Angel , Jiménez Mar , Bachiller Juan , Martínez Vicente , Toledano Adolfo , Gómez Cristina , Borromeo Susana
Published: August 2024

Olfactory fMRI has provided an objective assessment of olfactory function in normal brain and pathological subjects. Optimizing the fMRI acquisition is of paramount importance when studying olfactory areas due to high B0 inhomogeneities and thin cortical areas involved. Fully synchronizing the acquisition to the odorants delivery with patient respiration increases the effectiveness of the experiment. Using this technique in COVID-19 patients with anosmia could determine the correct rehabilitation therapy for these subjects and new treatment pathways.
Single-shell diffusion MRI for imaging white-matter microstructure in COVID-19: DTI vs. correlated diffusion imaging
Authors: Teller Nick , Chad Jordan A. , Wong Alexander , Gunraj Hayden , Ji Xiang , MacIntosh Bradley J. , Gilboa Asaf , Roudaia Eugenie , Sekuler Allison B. , Lam Benjamin , Heyn Chris , Black Sandra E. , Graham Simon J. , Chen J. Jean
Published: August 2024

This study examines microstructural white-matter differences between self-isolated COVID-19 patients and controls using correlated diffusion (CDI) and diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI) based on single-shell acquisitions. Correlated diffusion imaging reveals microstructural differences between patients and controls in frontal, olfactory, and cerebellar regions previously unseen with diffusion-tensor imaging. Our results suggest CDI as a feasible single-shell imaging technique that is sensitive to distinct impacts in various brain regions.
Choroid plexus volume can predict dementia conversion in non-dementia older subjects
Authors: Moon Won Jin , Yim Younghee , Park Byeong Kyu , Yang Jinho , Moon Yeonsil , Han Seol-Heui , Kim Hee-Jin , Lee Jongho
Published: August 2024

Prediction or prevention of progression to dementia for non-demented patients is critical for management and prevention strategy of dementia. Recent evidences suggest that larger choroid plexus (CP) volume was associated with the severity of cognitive impairment in Alzheimer disease (AD) spectrum. We evaluated clinical data and the volume, permeability and susceptibility of choroid plexus of 62 consecutive non-demented prospective cohorts with follow-up up to 2 years. Dementia converter group showed larger CP volume than that of non-converters. Thus, CP volume could be utilized as a potential imaging marker for patients who are likely to progress to dementia.
Age-related cell size and cellularity variation in deep gray matter in vivo
Authors: Chen Yufan , Wang Yishi , Xu Changyuan , Shi Diwei , Wang Guangbin
Published: August 2024

The aging progress of neuron is characterized by degenerative changes of structure and function. Few studies have focus on the structure in cellular level. In this study, we quantified cell size and cellularity in globus pallidus, putamen and substantia nigra pars compacta using time dependent diffusion imaging. Subgroup analysis by age showed the increased intracellular volume fraction of putamen in older people while diameter does not change over age. These findings might demonstrate the potential of MRI cell size imaging to assess the degeneration of neuron on cellular level.
Framework for Categorizing Intracerebral Hemorrhage Age: A Step Towards Fully-Automated Characterization and Visualization
Authors: Lilieholm Thomas , Larson Matthew , Ahmed Azam , Block Walter
Published: August 2024

Previous deep learning networks have autonomously identified, segmented, and quantified hematoma volumes in MR images of intracerebral hemorrhages (ICH). This information derived from this analysis would periodically augment surgical decisions during minimally invasive ICH evacuations. A limitation of these autonomous processes is the MRI contrast variations with varying clot ages precludes a generalizable CNN for ICH. We propose a multiparametric image processing pipeline for categorizing clots on the basis of their age, as determined by presented image contrast relative to local white matter. This determination can be used to select a properly trained CNN model based on age classification.
The Feasibility of a Rapid Stroke Protocol of Acute Ischemic Stroke at 3T MRI
Authors: Yin Hang , feng junbang , yu fei , chen Meining , xue lei , yu wei , li chuanming
Published: August 2024

Shortening MR scan time to diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke helps to perform intravenous thrombolysis more quickly and accurately for patients, thus improving the patients’ prognosis. A rapid stroke protocol was evaluated. With about 10 minutes of scanning, we achieved T1 flash, T2 TSE, T2 flair, high-resolution isotropic DWI, TOF and ASL. This protocol improved the detection rate of cerebral infarct lesions without compromising image quality, which help to make thrombolysis of patients with acute ischemic stroke earlier and more accurate.
Correlation of MRI Radiomics Features and Recurrence After Gamma Knife Treatment in Parasagittal and Falx Meningiomas
Authors: Sümer Esra , Türe O Artunç , Şengöz Meriç , Pamir M Necmettin , Dinçer Alp , Özduman Koray , Ozturk-Isik Esin
Published: August 2024

Meningiomas located at and around the falx and superior sagittal sinus are known to have a more aggressive clinical behavior. Additionally, their localization and invasion characteristics make complete resection difficult, creating a need for radiosurgery. This study assessed the relationship between radiomics/clinical features of parasagittal and falx meningiomas and their recurrence-free survival after Gamma Knife. The radiomics and clinical features (age, pre-op tumor volume, coverage, and sensitivity) were analyzed together. Univariable Cox analysis associated maximum and skewness of T1 lesion, age, TV, and coverage, whereas multivariable Cox analysis associated skewness of T2 lesion, coverage, and selectivity with RFS.
Hemodynamics in children with partial anomalous pulmonary venous return and atrial septal defect using 4D-flow MRI.
Authors: Callaghan Fraser , Burkhardt Barbara , Buechel Emanuela Valsangiacomo , Kellenberger Christian , Geiger Julia
Published: August 2024

4D flow MRI is used to assess flow dynamics in the pulmonary veins and left atrium of 10 patients (mean age 3.8 years) with partial anomalous pulmonary venous return and atrial septal defect compared with 13 age matched normal subjects. Anomalous veins do not have a higher proportion of total return flow compared to normal subjects. Flow across the atrial septal defect results in a higher proportion of flow during systole compared to normal subjects and results in lower atrial pressure and thus reduced left ventricle filling velocities. Atrial kick dynamics are not different compared with normal subjects.
Volumetric flow assessment in fetal sheep with Cartesian 4D flow MRI and radial slice-to-volume flow MRI with and without blood pool contrast
Authors: Goolaub Datta Singh , Storrs Judd , Kelly John , Krishnamurthy Ramkumar , Texter Karen , Strainic James , Ragsdale Ellie , Breuer Christopher , Armstrong Aimee , Krishnamurthy Rajesh , Macgowan Christopher
Published: August 2024

We compare flow distributions in fetal sheep obtained with Cartesian 4D flow MRI and slice-to-volume multidimensional blood flow imaging using accelerated multislice radial phase contrast MRI. In the latter, stacks of 2D slices are imaged. Real-time reconstructions allow for in-plane motion correction. CINEs are combined into a dynamic flow sensitive volume using slice-to-volume reconstruction with interslice motion correction. Comparison is performed in the presence and absence of contrast agent.
Changes in the position of the eyeball in TAO patients with unilateral upper eyelid retraction by T2-weighted SPIR imaging
Authors: Gou Xinyi , Wang Yi , Zhou Lingli , Lian Jianxiu , Chen Zilong , Zhang Xiuying , Cheng Jingyi , Chen Lei , Hong Nan , Cheng Jin
Published: August 2024

For patients with thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) presenting unilateral upper eyelid retraction, the phenomenon that the impaired eye is lower than the healthy eye (“eyeball descending”) has been noticed. This study investigated the eyeballs' position changes by 3D reconstitution of magnetic resonance (MR) images. With reference to the central plane of the healthy side, 70.37% impaired eyeballs (19/27) were found in significantly lower positions, and with significant positive correlations of increased thicknesses of levator palpebrae superioris (LPS), superior rectus (SR), and LPS-SR complex volume. This study provided objective evidence of “eyeball descending” in unilateral upper eyelid retraction TAO patients.
Reduction of motion artifacts in diffusion weighted brain images using first order motion-compensated diffusion gradients
Authors: Kara Danielle , Lowe Mark , Nguyen Christopher , Sakaie Ken
Published: August 2024

Patient motion during acquisition of diffusion weighted (DW) images causes significant signal dropout. To perform motion correction, DW images of the brain were acquired during gross head motion using a first order motion-compensated diffusion gradient scheme and compared to a traditional DW-EPI sequence. Of the images acquired with the motion-compensated sequence, only 1.5% contained significant signal dropout compared to 36% of the images acquired with the traditional sequence. Overall, the motion-compensated sequence reduced signal dropout by 96% compared to the traditional sequence without increasing scan time or introducing new post-processing protocols.
The effect of imaging parameters, aging, and circadian rhythm on Freesurfer's estimates: A single subject study at 7T over 7 years
Authors: Mattern Hendrik , Lüsebrink Falk , Speck Oliver
Published: August 2024

In this explorative study, the effect of imaging parameters, image quality, circadian rhythm, and aging on FreeSurfer’s estimates is investigated. To that end, the human phantom, an openly available data of a single subject scanned at 7T over 7 years with various MR protocols, is used.
Pulseq-gSlider: Scanner-independent high-isotropic-resolution dMRI on an open-source platform
Authors: Liu Qiang , Ning Lipeng , Liao Congyu , Imam Shaik , Peltier Scott , Gagoski Borjan , Bilgic Berkin , Grissom William A. , Zaitsev Maxim , Nielsen Jon-Fredrik , Rathi Yogesh
Published: August 2024

Using on the open-source pulse sequence programming platform Pulseq, we successfully developed and implemented the gSlider sequence on a 3T scanner without the vendor-specific sequence development environment. One-millimeter whole-brain isotropic dMRI data was acquired using the gSlider implementation from Pulseq and Siemens and test-retest variability was evaluated. The test-retest reliability in fractional anisotropy improved dramatically for the Pulseq implementation while it was comparable for both implementations for mean diffusivity. We demonstrated the feasibility of implementing advanced sequences using the open-source Pulseq platform and expect that it will be easily transferred to and executed on different vendors.
Assessing Liver Fibrosis with Diffusion-weighted MRI-based Virtual Elastography
Authors: Yang Li , Fu Caixia , Zeng Mengsu
Published: August 2024

Recently, diffusion-weighted (DW) imaging–based elastography was proposed for noninvasive liver staging by converting a shifted apparent diffusion coefficient (sADC) to tissue elasticity on the basis of two b values (200 and 1500sec/mm2). We retrospectively calculated sADC from DW MRI and converted it to DW MRI–based virtual shear modulus (µDiff) for evaluating liver fibrosis in 90 patients. Our results showed the µDiff was significantly correlated with liver fibrosis stage, and the areas under the curves were 0.864 and 0.821 for significant and advanced fibrosis, respectively, indicating DW imaging–based elastography is a promising method for predicting liver fibrosis.
Liver R2* with magnitude fitting in iron-overload patients – initial results on agreement between protocol settings and between 1.5T and 3T
Authors: Kannengiesser Stephan , Wunderlich Arthur , Zhong Xiaodong , Nickel Dominik , Cario Holger , Götz Michael , Beer Meinrad , Schmidt Stefan
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Preliminary liver R2* comparison in patients across field strengths and protocols. Methods: 3T R2* from 3D multi-gradient echo data with magnitude fitting was mapped to 1.5T R2*. Limits of agreement were calculated. Results: Converted 3T R2* agreed well with 1.5T R2*. Best 95% limits of agreement were [-4.9% 7.6%] for 1.5T R2* [166s-1 865s-1] and [-34.5% 41.7%] for [49s-1. 865s-1]. Conclusion: 3T R2* agrees well with 1.5T R2* and can be used interchangeably for 3T R2* between 328s-1 and 1699s-1 with an optimized protocol. For low R2* values, protocols with longer echo times should be used.
Evaluation of urethral sphincter complex after LRP based on 3.0T pelvic floor magnetic resonance imaging combined with DTI and fiber tractography
Authors: Zhao Zhiheng , Che Yingyu , Zhang Jing , Wu Yue , Yang Zitao , Zhang Qinyong , Wang Qingwei , Sheng Yifeng , Fan Ruilin , Cheng Jingliang
Published: August 2024

The anatomical-morphological and functional characteristics of the urethral sphincter complex, a key structure in the mechanism of urinary continence, have been studied mostly based on cadaveric dissection or animal experiments. In this study,we qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated the morphology and function of the urethral sphincter complex in patients after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) using pelvic floor MRI combined with DTI and fiber tractography, and to investigate the anatomical factors affecting PPI.
The application of Amide proton transfer MR imaging in prostate cancer with different risk
Authors: Man Jianghong , Wang Lina , Yu Tao , Zhu Yi , Shen Zhiwei
Published: August 2024

Amide proton transfer (APT) imaging is a novel nonintrusive technique for the diagnosis of PCa. In this study, we evaluate the distinction between APT value for prostate cancer and benign region in different Gleason scores. The result shows that APT is a potential tool for evaluating the risk of prostate cancer.
Distinguishing prostate cancer from prostate hyperplasia nodules using histograms based on amide proton transfer MRI and DWI
Authors: Yun You , Shen Zhiwei , Chen Xuejun
Published: August 2024

The diagnostic value of histograms based on 3D APT MRI and ADC in the central glandular region for the differentiation of prostate cancer and prostate hyperplastic nodules was evaluated in this study. The results showed that the 3D APT MRI and ADC histograms had better diagnostic efficacy in the central glandular region for the differentiation of prostate cancer and prostate hyperplastic nodules, but the diagnostic efficacy of the 3D APT.
3D Distortionless Diffusion Weighted Imaging in the Prostate using a Diffusion Prepared Fast Spin-Echo Sequence
Authors: Hess Jeremiah , Lee Philip , Zhou Xuetong , Loening Andreas , Hargreaves Brian
Published: August 2024

Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) of the prostate is commonly used for tumor detection and characterization. However, the echo planar imaging (EPI) based DWI methods commonly used in prostate imaging fail in the setting of field inhomogeneities most related to hip prosthesis and rectal gas. Cartesian Fast Spin-Echo (FSE) is an alternative to EPI that is more robust to off-resonance. In this study, we compare in vivo 3D FSE to multi-shot EPI (MUSE) for DWI prostate imaging, demonstrating that an FSE DWI sequence achieves high image quality while avoiding geometric distortion seen in EPI based DWI.
Association of Plaque Characteristics, Pial Collaterals and Perfusion with Recurrent Ischemic Stroke in Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis
Authors: Yu Jia-Wei , Li Rui-Ying , Zhao Xian-Ce , Huang Shan , Zhao Deng-Ling
Published: August 2024

Association between plaque characteristics, perfusion, pial collaterals (PCs) and recurrent ischemic stroke is unclear. Few analyses focus on combination of blood vessels, perfusion and PCs. In this study, 62 patients presenting with a transient ischemic attack or acute ischemic stroke caused by middle cerebral artery atherosclerosis were involved. All patients underwent the routine head MRI/MRA scan and high-resolution vessel wall imaging examinations. We performed a comprehensive assessment of plaque characteristics, perfusion and PCs. We concluded that brain perfusion and PCs are correlated with recurrence of ischemic stroke and their combination provided incremental value in identifying the recurrence of ischemic stroke.
Assessing tumor internal heterogeneity and pathological findings of oral tongue cancer using voxel-based TIC analysis
Authors: Yang Xing , Xue Ke , Tian Zhen , Wang Jingbo , Dai Yongming , Wu Yingwei
Published: August 2024

Evaluating the heterogeneous characteristics and lymph node metastasis status of the tumor would be of importance to stratify patients to have the individually tailored management. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of pixel-by-pixel TIC method in evaluating tumor heterogeneity and predicting histological tumor grade and LNM in tongue SCC. We found that the pixel-by-pixel TIC analysis approach allowed the detection of the internal heterogeneity of the whole tumor. Ratio of Type 2 TIC pattern would facilitate the distinction of SCCs with different histological grades and LNM status, implying its tremendous potential in tumors with high heterogeneity.
Quantitative Microstructure Mapping of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Time-Dependent Diffusion MRI: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Liu Hangzhi , Wang Xinyan , Zhang Chen , Feiweier Thorsten , Chen Xiaohong , Xian Junfang
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the feasibility of IMPULSED(Imaging Microstructural Parameters Using Limited Spectrally Edited Diffusion) to evaluate cell microstructure of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The results showed that mean cell diameter, extracellular diffusion coefficient and intracellular volume fraction are 9.47±3.33 µm,1.95±1.04μm²/ms and 0.23±0.14% respectively and consistent with the previous pathological reports. Patients with cervical lymph node metastases had significantly smaller mean cell diameters than those without metastases. Mean cell diameter decreased with increasing cycles of immunotherapy. This suggests that IMPULSED can quantitatively characterize cell properties of tumor in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients.
Correlation between magnetic resonance perfusion and Ki-67 expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Nan , Wang Lijun , Xie Lizhi , Liu Ailian
Published: August 2024

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common malignancy in Southeast Asia. In this study, we explore the correlation between the quantitative parameters derived from dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance (DCE-MRI) of NPC with Ki-67 index. Results showed that the Ktrans mean was positively correlated with Ki-67. The Ktrans mean value was significantly higher in cases with a high Ki-67 status than in those with a low Ki-67 status (AUC 0.8519), and the cutoff value, sensitivity, and specificity was 0.479, 77.78%, and 100%, respectively, suggesting the Ktrans parameter of DCE-MRI has the most utility in distinguishing between high and low Ki-67 levels.
Evaluation of the Glymphatic System Using the DTI-ALPS Index in Patients with Spontaneous Intracerebral Haemorrhage
Authors: Zhang Chao , Sha Jingyun , Cai Lulu , Zhao Houliang , Dou Weiqiang , Xu Kai
Published: August 2024

We evaluated the function of the human glymphatic system (GS) in patients with spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage (sICH) using diffusion tensor imaging analysis along with the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS). Twenty patients with sICH and 31 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited for analysis. The results showed that DTI-ALPS index on the lesion side was significantly decreased, but not in the contralateral side in sICH or in HCs. And, the decreased DTI-ALPS index was significantly correlated with disease duration. This study confirmed the presence of GS dysfunction only ipsilateral to the lesion, indicating the GS may be a separate system in bilateral hemispheres.
Automated Fiber Quantification Predicts Motor Weakness in Patients Following Resection of Primary and Metastatic Brain Lesions
Authors: Glenn George , Mannam Sneha , Nwagwu Chibueze , Goyal Subir , Pradilla Gustavo , Nduom Edjah , Olson Jeffery , Bray David , Kimberly Hoang
Published: August 2024

Preoperative diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data was analyzed using Automated Fiber Quantification (AFQ) along the corticospinal tract (CST) for 58 patients undergoing surgical resection of primary or metastatic brain lesions. For each patient, DTI parameters were analyzed along the ipsilateral CST, the side of the pathological lesion, and the contralateral CST, the side opposite the pathological lesion. Patients were then separated based on the presence or absence of postoperative motor weakness. Patients with post operative motor weakness were found to have significantly different diffusion parameters along their ipsilateral CST compared to the ipsilateral CST of patients without postoperative motor weakness.
Three-dimensional black-blood T1 mapping of arterial plaque and venous thrombosis: a concept-proof study
Authors: Nie Yuhui , Liu Zeping , Gu Anyan , Liao Liping , Ruan Qizeng , Huang Zehe , Sun Yi , Xie Guoxi
Published: August 2024

Quantitative T1 mapping have showed the potential to characterize arterial plaque and venous thrombotic components. However, owing to the interference of blood signals, it is a challenge for T1 mapping technique to combine with black-blood imaging, which may otherwise be a confounder for plaque and thrombus component. In this study, we present a black-blood T1 mapping technique based on DANTE black-blood preparation and MP2RAGE sequence. Experiment results demonstrated that BB-MP2RAGE provided accurate measurement of T1 relaxation time with effective blood suppression. The technique has the potential to be a quantitative tool for thrombosis and plaque characterization.
Iterative denoising of undersampled 3D MRF with exact line search and spatial regularization
Authors: Slioussarenko Constantin , Marty Benjamin
Published: August 2024

We propose an iterative algorithm to remove remaining artefacts of Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting maps, using projected gradient descent with exact line search and spatial regularization. We use this framework to denoise 3D MRF T1-FF acquisitions undersampled in the partition direction and show that this allows to reduce undersampling artefacts for the T1H2O and FF maps after a few iterations.
Super-resolution GAN network for fast quantification of proton density mapping from highly accelerated synthetic magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Liu Yawen , Ren Pengling , Yin Hongxia , Zhu Yi , Wei Rong , Zhang Tingting , Zheng Zuofeng , Wang Zhenchang
Published: August 2024

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) can reflect the inherent characteristics of human tissue of relaxation time and proton density, and has important value for clinical diagnostic. However, long scan times limit the use of qMRI. We propose a method to optimize fast qMRI using a super-resolution generative adversarial network, thereby reducing scan time and obtaining accurate quantitative values. The results showed that this method was able to improve the image quality of qMRI, and the quantitative values were not significantly different from those obtained in conventional acquisitions.
Unsupervised Learning-based Pulse Sequence Optimization framework for Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting
Authors: Li Peng , Zhang Yinghao , Lu Xin , Hu Yue
Published: August 2024

The optimal design of the Magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) sequence is still challenging due to the optimization of high-degrees-of-freedom acquisition parameters. In this paper, we propose a novel unsupervised learning-based pulse sequence design framework for efficient MRF sequence optimization. Specifically, we propose a novel pulse sequence generation network (PSG-Net) that fully exploits the sequence correlation to generate the optimal pulse sequence from a zero-initialized input. To achieve improved precision of parameter estimation, we use a predefined pulse sequence performance evaluation function that can directly represent tissue quantification separability as the loss function to update the parameters of the PSG-Net.
Fast, High-Resolution, and Optimal Contrast MRI
Authors: Sui Yao , Afacan Onur , Jaimes Camilo , Gholipour Ali , Warfield Simon
Published: August 2024

Any MRI practices prefer high resolution, high signal-to-noise ratio, short scan time, and high contrast. Unfortunately, fast scan leads to low resolution while high-resolution scan results in a reduced signal-to-noise ratio. In particular, it is challenging for radiologists and technologists, who perform MRI scans, to find optimal sequence parameters for each patient, leading to sub-optimal contrast. We developed a new methodology that enables fast and high-resolution brain MRI with improved signal-to-noise ratio and optimal contrast between white-matter and gray-matter for each individual patient, based on quantitative imaging and reconstruction techniques. Experiments on clinical data demonstrated the advantages of our approach.
Merging Cartesian and non-Cartesian sampling through GoLF-SPARKLING
Authors: R Chaithya G , Daval-Frérot Guillaume , Massire Aurélien , Vignaud Alexandre , Ciuciu Philippe
Published: August 2024

Cartesian sampling can acquire a given k-space region with minimum redundancy, while non-Cartesian sampling can help achieve a larger k-space coverage. Through generalized affine constraints in SPARKLING and an adapted target sampling density, for the first time non-Cartesian and Cartesian sampling are merged within same trajectory, giving the best of both worlds. With Gridding of Low Frequencies (GoLF), we get SPARKLING k-space trajectories which carry out Cartesian sampling at the center of k-space. This approach paves the way for designing new kind of compound sampling patterns, which enforces Cartesian and non-Cartesian sampling within the same trajectory.
A clinically applicable deep-learning model for automatic detection of focal liver lesions on Gd-DTPA-enhanced MRI
Authors: Jiang Jiahui , Xu Lixue , Zhang Xiaolan , Yu Niange , Yang Dawei , Xu Hui , Yang Zhenghan
Published: August 2024

Accurate detection of focal liver lesions in Gd-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) necessitates a high level of skill and experience. This task is typically performed by radiologists through visual inspection, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and subject to intra- and inter-observer variation. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have demonstrated significant potential in detecting lesions on medical imaging. Our study presents a unified multi-sequence lesion detector model for automatically detecting focal liver lesions on Gd-DTPA-enhanced MR images to aid in treatment decision-making.
Multiparametric MRI manifestations of spontaneous intratumoral coagulative necrosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yu Dexin , Zuo Liping , Hou Mingyuan , Fan Jinlei , An Yueming , Wang Bowen
Published: August 2024

Problem: To illustrate the MRI manifestations of spontaneous intratumoral coagulative necrosis (iCN) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its value in predicting postoperative early recurrence. Methods: 263 patients with HCC confirmed by surgical pathology were enrolled. The qualitative assessments of MRI features were performed. Results: The iCN in HCC was characterized by a similar appearance to the tumor on pre-contrast MRI but with non-enhancement on post-contrast MRI. Presence of iCN on MRI was associated with early tumor recurrence. Conclusions: Presence of iCN on MRI is associated with early tumor recurrence and might assist to guide clinical treatment.
Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma phantom and its use for assessing R2* mapping sequences for detecting iron sparing
Authors: Pickles Elisabeth , Cox Eleanor , Telford Alison , Mozes Ferenc , Belsley Gabriela , Tunnicliffe Elizabeth , Brady Michael , Pavlides Michael , Bulte Daniel , Francis Susan
Published: August 2024

Survival rates for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are poor, and improved methods for early detection are required. One such method may be the detection of iron sparing in HCC compared to the liver tissue using R2* mapping. We optimised sequences for the assessment of whole liver 3D R2* mapping, and developed a HCC phantom comprising small spheres with a range of R2* values to assess them. Agreement of the phantom R2* with reference values and between vendors, as well as the ability to detect small differences in R2* indicated the sequences have strong potential to detect iron sparing.
Simplified, ‘single-step’ segmentation and quantification of bone marrow oedema using deep learning
Authors: Bray Timothy , Jones Alexis , Hall-Craggs Margaret , Zhang Hui
Published: August 2024

We present a deep learning workflow which segments and quantifies bone marrow oedema (BMO) in a single deep learning step. Detection and quantification of BMO plays a crucial role in diagnosis and monitoring of patients with inflammatory diseases of the skeleton, including spondyloarthritis (SpA), and various segmentation methods have been developed to facilitate BMO quantification. However, previous attempts have used multiple algorithms in sequence to achieve satisfactory performance. To improve on this, we propose a simplified approach that avoids the need for such sequential algorithms, thus simplifying the workflow, eliminating potential error sources and reducing the need for human input.