bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility Study to Spatially Map the Filtration Function of the Kidneys with Multi-TE Arterial Spin Labeling
Authors: Sommer Lena , Hoinkiss Daniel , Huber Jörn , Konstandin Simon , Günther Matthias
Published: August 2024

A spatial mapping of the renal filtration function of the blood might be helpful in identifying parts of the kidney that only work with reduced function and are therefore impaired the most. This work shows an approach to a non-invasive method to map the filtration rate of the kidney.
Initial evaluation of PETRA UTE imaging at 7T in a phantom and musculoskeletal tissue specimen
Authors: Lockard Carly , Damon Bruce , Serrai Hacene
Published: August 2024

Ultrashort echo-time MRI allow signal acquisition from tissues with ultrashort (<1 ms) T2*. We evaluated repeatability, SNR, acquisition time, and potential for T2* mapping using a modified PETRA sequence at 7T. Signal values were repeatable, and subtraction imaging was both feasible and consistent with those previously reported. T2* mapping had lower repeatability and may require improved modeling of TE-dependent k-space filling strategy effects. Short- and long-TE PETRA imaging was feasible at 7T in a phantom and ex vivo specimen. These initial results will serve as guidance for further optimization/potential applications.
Association between arterial stiffness and white matter integrity in older adults
Authors: Kikuta Junko , Kamagata Koji , Abe Masahiro , Christina Andica , Saito Yuya , Takabayashi Kaito , Uchida Wataru , Naito Hitoshi , Tabata Hiroki , Wada Akihiko , Tamura Yoshifumi , Kawamura Ryuzo , Watada Hirotaka , Aoki Shigeki
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to use advanced MRI techniques to investigate the effect of arterial stiffness on the white matter (WM) microstructure among older adults. Arterial stiffness was examined using the cardio-ankle vascular elasticity index (CAVI). The high-CAVI group (mean CAVI ≥ 9 points) and the low-CAVI group (mean CAVI < 9 points) were used. The neuronal fiber integrity of the WM was assessed by neurite orientation dispersion, density imaging, and magnetization transfer-saturation imaging. Our results suggest that arterial stiffness may be related to demyelination rather than axonal degeneration.
On the prediction of cognitive impairment trajectories from anatomical MRI in ADNI: preliminary results
Authors: Vieira Bruno Hebling , Langer Nicolas
Published: August 2024

We predict yearly differences in MMSE and CDR-SOB using data from the ADNI cohort ranging from five years before to five years after the imaging session. We show that models that use embeddings from a deep-learning model trained to predict brain-age or models that use bilateral hippocampi, amygdalae, and accumbens perform approximately the same as models that use baseline cognitive scores as inputs. This has potential ramifications for both clinical machine learning applications and the neurobiology of cognitive decline. In future work, we will finetune the deep-learning model and substantially increase the sample size.
Evaluation of relationship between trigeminal nerve stimulation and hemodynamics using 4D-Flow MRI: A pilot study in swine model
Authors: Jen Mu-Lan , Verma Nishant , Cheng Kevin , Moskwa Robert , Roberts Grant , Laluzerne Maria , Frank Jennifer , Williams Justin , Block Wally , Ludwig Kip , Johnson Kevin
Published: August 2024

This study utilizes 4D-Flow imaging to evaluate hemodynamic alterations during the period of nerve stimulation and investigates cerebral blood flow changes modulated by using 4D-Flow MRI in large animal models. Preliminary results showed cerebral blood flow increases while flow pulsatility decreases with the electrical stimulation of trigeminal nerves. This effect from neuromodulation is on the contrary to the hemodynamic alterations with aging and AD progression, which implies the potential of neuromodulation as an alternative treatment approach in repairing glymphatic system function.
Discovering the Metabolomic Relationships between Lung Cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Cheng Leo , Kobus Zuzanna , Kobus Marta , Su Li , Christiani David
Published: August 2024

Herein, we report our preliminary data on metabolomic associations between human lung cancer (LuCa) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) measured from serum samples using high resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) MRS. The current project’s objective is to establish MRS-based tissue pathology-guided serum metabolomic profiles for matched LuCa patients, with and without AD, by comparing serum profiles measured from matched healthy controls. Initial results demonstrate the feasibility of HRMAS MRS for LuCa-AD metabolomic mechanisms investigation. Our findings serve as a foundation for innovative future diagnostic and treatment studies.
Altered functional hubs and connectivity in type 2 diabetes mellitus with and without mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Huang Yang , Zhang Dongsheng , Zhang Xin , Ai Kai , Lei Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiaoling
Published: August 2024

To investigate the functional abnormalities of brain networks and hub nodes damaged in T2DM patients with mild cognitive impairment (DMCI). We applied degree centrality (DC) and seed-based functional connectivity (FC) analysis to identify the abnormal hub nodes and the FC patterns of these hubs in DMCI patients. Our results indicated that DMCI patients showed extensive alterations in the visual and memory pathways, and these alterations were correlated with clinical/cognitive variables. These results suggested that vision and memory-related brain regions dysfunctions may be involved in the neuropathology of visuospatial and memory function impairment in DMCI patients.
Prediction of Genomic Signature of Prostate Lesion Radiosensitivity by mpMRI Radiomics and Machine Learning
Authors: Zacharaki Evangelia , Alhusseini Mohammad , Breto Adrian , Xu Isaac , Algohary Ahmad , Ma Wendi , Gaston Sandra , Abramowitz Matthew , Pra Alan Dal , Punnen Sanoj , Pollack Alan , Stoyanova Radka
Published: August 2024

Genomic classifiers, such as PORTOS, have shown great promise in the prediction of prostate cancer radiosensitivity. However, the spatial heterogeneity of prostate cancer may confound genomic assessment due to tumor sampling error. We aimed to develop a model predictive of PORTOS genomic signature using multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) radiomics features and machine learning. Lesions were localized based on Habitat Risk Score maps. Eight radiomic features were selected (out of 167) including T2, ADC, high B-value intensity and texture variables and used to build logistic regression models through cross-validation. Our analysis shows association between the radiomics profile and prostate lesion radiosensitivity phenotype.
Comparison of Blood Flow Measurement of Posterior Cerebral Circulation at Vertebral and Basilar Arteries Using Phase Contrast MRI
Authors: Xu Feng , Qin Qin
Published: August 2024

Phase contrast (PC) MRI provides a quantitative measurement of the total flux of blood flow. As it is not easy to find a perpendicular plane to the vertebral arteries (VA) at the base of the brain, especially in the elderly and people who developed tortuous arteries, we explored the alternative imaging location at the basilar artery (BA) where two VA merged in front of the pon. The flux of BA shows an excellent correlation (ρ=0.9, P<0.01) with that of VA, suggesting that BA is a practical choice for measuring the global blood flow of posterior cerebral circulation using PC MRI.
Visualization of Collateral Vessels in 4D TRANCE MR Angiography Compaired with 3D TOF in Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Chen Zhihua , Liang Kaiyin , Lan Yongkun , Zhou Wen
Published: August 2024

Compared with 3D-CE-MRA, TOF technology isn't conducive to display slow blood flow. Moreover, TOF angiography is a static approach that lacks flow dynamic information. In our study, the 4D TRANCE MRA depicted the proximal arteries better than 3D TOF and may replace TOF angiography. Our study also indicated that LMA collaterals were better visualized in 4D TRANCE angiography and visualization of distal cerebral arteries and collateral vessels with Moyamoya disease with 4D TRANCE MR angiography was good to excellent. Besides conventional MRA to show the shape and distribution of blood vessels, it can also provide hemodynamic information of vascular diseases.
A Regularized Conditional GAN for Posterior Sampling in MR Image Reconstruction
Authors: Bendel Matthew , Ahmad Rizwan , Schniter Philip
Published: August 2024

For magnetic resonance (MR) image reconstruction, Fourier-domain measurements are collected at rates far below Nyquist to reduce clinical exam time. Because many plausible reconstructions exist that are consistent with a given measurement, we use machine learning to sample from the posterior distribution rather than generate a single image reconstruction. Many such works leverage score-based generative models (SGMs), which seek to iteratively denoise a random input but require many minutes to generate each sample. We propose a conditional generative adversarial network (GAN) that generates hundreds of posterior samples per minute and outperforms the current state-of-the-art SGM for multi-coil MR posterior sampling.
Automated hybrid approach to diagnose Parkinson's disease via deep learning and radiomics
Authors: Chen Hongyi , Liu Xueling , Li Yuxin , Wu Puyeh , Geng Daoying
Published: August 2024

In this study, we constructed a hybrid machine learning model utilizing CNN and radiomics features based on NM-sensitive setMag images. The hybrid features improved the diagnostic performance in distinguishing PD patients from HC, as demonstrated in the SVM classifier, which demonstrated 95.7% accuracy, 92.9% sensitivity, and 100% specificity. The interpretability of the radiomics approach is better because radiomics features provide more interpretable biomarkers, while the CNN approach extracts deeper features from images. Furthermore, visualizing regions that influence classification decisions via saliency map can also enhance the interpretability of the CNN approach.
Feasibility study of predicting invasive placenta accreta and adverse clinical outcomes based on quantitative MRI parameters
Authors: Zeng Fei , Zha Yun , Liu Weiyin
Published: August 2024

Clear prenatal diagnosis and correct intraoperative treatment can ensure the safety of the fetus and pregnant women. Logistic regression analysis based on quantitative MRI parameters showed that abortion times, diameter of hyperplastic vessels in placenta and protrusion of uterus were independent risk factors for invasive placenta accreta. Diameter of hyperplastic vessels in placenta, area of low signal band on T2WI in placenta and protrusion of uterus were independent risk factors for predicting adverse clinical outcomes. Our study showed the accuracy of the binary Logistic regression model in prediction of placenta type and adverse clinical outcome was 91.3%.
Diurnal Changes in Cerebrovascular Dynamics Measured from 4D-Flow
Authors: Rivera-Rivera Leonardo , Roberts Grant , Peret Anthony , Johnson Sterling , Wieben Oliver , Eisenmenger Laura , Johnson Kevin
Published: August 2024

In this study, we investigated diurnal changes in cerebral hemodynamics from 4D-Flow in a large population of cognitively healthy older adults and in a younger group of healthy volunteers. To separate physiological and technical variability of 4D-Flow measures, volunteers were scanned at 7am, 4pm, and 10pm on the same day three times for each timepoint. Data supports strong cerebral blood flow fluctuations of physiological origin that are much higher than the technical variability.
Differences in cerebellar fiber tract dispersion in coronary artery disease patients are associated with episodic memory and processing speed
Authors: Tremblay Stefanie , Sabra Dalia , Sanami Safa , Rezaei Ali , Potvin-Jutras Zacharie , Gagnon Christine , Intzandt Brittany , Mainville-Berthiaume Amélie , Wright Lindsay , Vuckovic Dajana , Iglesies-Grau Josep , Vincent Thomas , Gayda Mathieu , Nigam Anil , Bherer Louis , Gauthier Claudine
Published: August 2024

Here we characterized the impact of coronary artery disease (CAD) on the brain’s white matter (WM) using diffusion tensor (DTI) and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI). Mean diffusivity was higher in CAD patients in occipital WM and there were differences in orientation dispersion in several tracts between CAD patients and healthy controls. Alterations in fiber dispersion of cerebellar WM were associated with global cognition, episodic memory, and processing speed. Our study supports the use of advanced diffusion imaging models for the early detection of subtle WM damage in populations at risk of developing dementia such as CAD patients.
1H-MRSI of cortical and subcortical gray matter in cognitively unimpaired elderly: Associations with APOE4, CSF p-tau181 and MR morphometry
Authors: Chen Anna , Gajdošík Martin , Peralta Rosemary , Azad Dishari , Zheng Helena , Gajdošík Mia , George Ajax , Ahn Sinyeob , Tordjman Mickael , Zabludovsky Julia , Zhang Yuxin , Chen LianLian , Rusinek Henry , Madelin Guillaume , Osorio Ricardo , Kirov Ivan
Published: August 2024

1H-MRSI can examine spatiotemporal characteristics of metabolic dysfunction in multiple brain regions in early Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. Since both cortical and subcortical gray matter structures have shown vulnerability to AD neurodegeneration, we tested whether regional gray matter metabolic abnormalities were associated with (i) APOE4 genotype, a risk factor for amyloid burden, (ii) CSF p-tau181, an indicator of tau burden, and (iii) morphometry metrics (volume, cortical thickness) indicative of neurodegeneration, in cognitively unimpaired elderly. We found lower caudate Cho and lower posterior cingulate Glx in APOE4 carriers compared to non-carriers. There were no metabolite relationships with CSF p-tau181 or morphometry.
Cortical Blood Perfusion during Preclinical Migraine at 21.1 T using FAIR-PASL
Authors: Richter Dayna , Grant Samuel
Published: August 2024

Migraine is a neurological disorder with neurovascular implications. Blood flow changes based on brain's activity and needs, so excessive neural activation during migraine is likely to make significant alterations to cortical blood perfusion. Therefore, cortical blood perfusion was measured using FAIR-PASL to monitor the progression in preclinical migraine in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Parameters for inversion RF pulse shape and slice thickness were optimized to achieve more robust fits for monitoring cortical blood perfusion during preclinical migraine.
Deep Learning-based Automatic Perfusion Phase Identification for Dynamic T1-weighted Liver MRI
Authors: Grimm Robert , Müller Malte , Jacob Cornelius , Mollus Sabine , Tietjen Christian , Choi Moon Hyung , Oyama Kazuki , Weikert Thomas , Hardie Andrew , Yoon Jeong Hee , von Busch Heinrich , Thoermer Gregor , Daum Volker
Published: August 2024

A deep learning-based approach for automatic identification of the perfusion phases in dynamic T1-weighted liver MRI is presented. First, an encoder model combined with two dense layers was trained to classify each image into pre-contrast, arterial, portal-venous, late, or hepatobiliary phase. In a second pass, classification errors are detected and adjusted, based on the expected occurrence order and relative timing to the arterial phase. The AI model reached sensitivities of 67% to 99%. Most common mis-classifications were confusions of the portal-venous or late phase with the adjacent phases. By the rule-based adjustments, the classification performance was raised to >95% accuracy.
Improvement of the time-resolved 4DMRI image quality through super-resolution reconstruction using compressed sensing
Authors: Wu Can , Li Guang , Liu Yilin
Published: August 2024

Since the development of respiratory-correlated four-dimensional computed tomography (RC-4DCT) [1] and magnetic resonance imaging (RC-4DMRI) [2,3], patient-specific respiratory-induced tumor motion has been incorporated in radiotherapy for treating mobile tumors, such as lung, liver and pancreatic cancer. However, the RC-based snapshot 4D imaging only provides one breathing cycle, often contains severe binning motion artifacts, and may not represent tumor motion over 20-minute treatment, affecting treatment outcomes. Therefore, respiratory motion irregularities remain a challenge in radiotherapy. In this study, we report an improved time-resolved 4DMRI technique that captures multi-breath and can be used clinically and quantifies tumor motion irregularities.
SSMo-QSM: A self-supervised learning method for model-based quantitative susceptibility mapping reconstruction
Authors: Feng Jie , Zhang Ming , Feng Ruimin , Wei Hongjiang
Published: August 2024

This study, SSMo-QSM, introduced a self-supervised strategy to achieve a model-based deep learning QSM reconstruction for dealing with the imperfect ground truth in supervised learning methods. In SSMo-QSM, the direct frequency domain division results between phase and dipole kernel at untruncated areas of TKD are randomly separated into two subsets. One is used as the data consistency of the unrolled network and the other is used to define the loss function for training, respectively. The preliminary results of synthetic data suggested that SSMo-QSM performed comparably against supervised methods on accurate susceptibility mapping with suppressed streaking artifact.
Feature selection to facilitate surgical planning from MRI of Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Chappell Joanna , Mufti Nada , Irzan Hassna , O’Brien Pat , Attilakos George , Sokolska Magda , Narayanan Priya , Gaunt Trevor , Humpheries Paul , Patel Premal , Whitby Elspeth , Jauniaux Eric , Hutchinson J. Ciaran , Sebire Neil , Atkinson David , Kendall Giles , Ourselin Sebastien , Vercauteren Tom , David Anna , Melbourne Andrew
Published: August 2024

Feature Selection Models provide a ranking of pathological MRI markers able to predict the outcome of Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorder, which could be used to aid in clinical decision-making and improve maternal outcome. The potential being to reduce the workload of radiologists by establishing the most clinically relevant pathological MRI markers that predict outcome. Our results found three pathological markers to have the highest ranking to the outcomes with an average accuracy of 75% using a Random Forest Selection Model and Boruta algorithm.
Evaluating chronic hepatitis B-related liver fibrosis with a continuous-time random-walk diffusion model
Authors: Zhang Jing , Lu Zhiyang , Yang Kaifan , Zheng Liyun , Dai Yongming , Xu Yikai
Published: August 2024

Early characterization of liver fibrosis has great clinical significance as it allows monitoring of treatment response to antifibrotic agents in patients with chronic liver disease. Most recently, high b-values diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) based on the continuous-time random-walk (CTRW) model has been introduced. Compared to the healthy control group, the mean D, α, and β values were significantly lower in the hepatic fibrosis group. Spatial diffusion heterogeneity β showed the best diagnostic performance. This non-invasive method has the potential to realize efficient evaluation and improve clinical treatment decision-making.
Building a Liver Perfusion Phantom for Vessel Size Imaging
Authors: Romano Dominick , Şişman Mert , Zhang Qihao , Nguyen Thanh , Spincemaille Pascal , Prince Martin , Wang Yi
Published: August 2024

We have developed a methodology of preparing explant livers for perfusion and vessel size imaging. Off-label use of ferumoxytol is known to provide high quality vessel size maps in vivo; however, known adverse reactions to ferumoxytol may hinder adoption into the clinical workflow. In this case, gadolinium may be more attractive. VSI experiments on a gadolinium perfused liver provide a proof of concept that Gadolinium may be used as an alternative contrast for vessel size imaging.
Evaluating Spatial Heterogeneity for Liver PDFF and R2* using Radiomics Features
Authors: Thanaj Marjola , Basty Nicolas , Srinivasan Ramprakash , Cule Madeleine , Sorokin Elena , Bell Jimmy , Thomas Elizabeth , Witcher Brandon
Published: August 2024

MRI measures specific to the liver such as proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and R2* are proven biomarkers for assessing hepatic fat and iron content. There is an interest in using radiomics to extract additional information relating to spatial heterogeneity from images and apply these to clinical data. Here, we extracted radiomics features from liver PDFF and R2* and selected reproducible features and features that provide independent information to that derived from median liver PDFF and R2*. Additionally, we show that most radiomics features are negatively correlated with age and positively correlated with body mass index (BMI).
3D Steady-State Golden Angle Radial Sparse Parellel CEST (ssGraspCEST) MRI of the human brain at 3T.
Authors: Leforestier Rodolphe , Xia Ding , Feng Li , Xu Xiang
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this project was to study the applicability of a fast 3D CEST MRI technique called GraspCEST to extract amdie, guanidinium and rNOE CEST contrasts in human brain at 3T.
The impact of motion and motion correction in dynamic glucose enhanced MRI
Authors: Lehmann Patrick , Papageorgakis Christos , Casagranda Stefano , Seidemo Anina , Xu Xiang , Yadav Nirbhay , Li Xu , Wirestam Ronnie , Liebig Patrick , Testud Frederik , Sundgren Pia , Van Zijl Peter , Knutsson Linda
Published: August 2024

Dynamic glucose-enhanced (DGE) MRI is a dynamic chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) method that can provide information about D-glucose uptake in tissue. DGE signal changes are small and so-called pseudo-DGE effects can appear as true DGE effects. In this study, we investigated how motion and motion correction influenced the DGE effects using both a realistic (measured) motion pattern and an arbitrary motion pattern. We observed that pseudo-DGE effects are governed by the head motion pattern and originate either from tissue mixing at tissue interfaces or B0-shifts. Although motion correction can reduce these effects, new pseudo-DGE effects can also be introduced.
Perivascular Space Imaging during Therapy for Medulloblastoma
Authors: Song Ruitian , Glass John , Robinson Giles , Gajja Amar , Merchant Thomas , Reddick Wilburn
Published: August 2024

Patients with medulloblastoma treated with radio-chemotherapy (N=211) were examined by perivascular space (PVS) imaging at three time points: 0, 3, and 12 months. The patients were treated with different dose level based on risk factors. For low dose radiation, there were no significant changes in PVS between time points. A transient increase in PVS was observed for high and standard dose radiation during radiotherapy which subsequently resolved during chemotherapy. Perivascular space imaging is a potential biomarker to monitor the side effects from combined modality therapy.
The potential of ultra-high resolution 7T T2-weighted TSE to assess the glymphatic system’s structure
Authors: Mattern Hendrik , Speck Oliver
Published: August 2024

In this proof-of-principle study the currently untapped potential of UHF MRI is shown. Two young, healthy volunteers were scanned at 7T with 2D 0.25x0.25x1.0mm T2w TSE depicting a substantial number of PVS. At this high resolution, vessel segments inside the PVS could be studied and quantified. Further, hyperintense structures around and inside the dura and sinuses were depicted clearly.
Characteristics of cerebral blood flow in sleep deprivation based on arterial spin labeling
Authors: Wang Chen , Wang Xiaolei , Li Leilei , Zhu Yuanqiang
Published: August 2024

ASL has been widely used in neuroimaging studies to measure the metabolic activity of local brain microstructure due to its advantages of no radiation damage, no introduction of exogenous contrast agent, high repeatability and fast scanning time. In this study, ASL perfusion imaging was used to analyze the changes of cerebral blood perfusion during normal sleep and sleep deprivation.
Association between subregions of the substantia nigra and behavioral symptoms in patients with Parkinson disease using neuromelanin MRI
Authors: Trujillo Paula , Hett Kilian , Hay Kaitlyn , Song Alexander , Claassen Daniel
Published: August 2024

We investigated the relationship between subregions of the substantia nigra and behavioral disinhibition in patients with Parkinson disease using neuromelanin MRI. We found a significant positive relationship between disinhibition and neuromelanin MRI contrast ratio in bi-lateral clusters localized in the medial substantia nigra. These findings suggest that neuromelanin MRI can be used to assess the localization of changes in the substantia nigra and inform how dopamine pathophysiology relates to behavioral symptoms in Parkinson disease.
Differential Diagnosis Between Parkinson's Disease and Essential Tremor with Neuromelanin Imaging of the Substantia Nigra and Locus Coeruleus
Authors: Wang Xinhui , He Naying , Haacke Ewart , Liu Yu , Liu Peng , Zhang Youmin , Jin Zhijia , Li Yan , Wu Peng , Yan Fuhua
Published: August 2024

In this study, we used neuromelanin MRI to investigate locus coeruleus (LC) and substantia nigra changes between essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). We found the neuromelanin of LC was significantly lower in tremor-dominant PD patients than in ET patients or healthy controls, and the area under the curve of the model constructed by NM measures reached 0.92 in differentiating tremor-dominant PD from ET. These results provided new perspectives in the differential diagnosis of patients with tremor and in the investigation of the underlying pathophysiology.
Non-invasive Detection of IDH-mutant Gliomas using Single and Multi-voxel Point-resolved Spectroscopy
Authors: de Godoy Laiz Laura , Verma Gaurav , O’Rourke Donald M , Nasrallah MacLean , Brem Steven , Desai Arati , Loevner Laurie , Mohan Suyash , Chawla Sanjeev
Published: August 2024

IDH mutation has become one of the most important prognostic biomarkers in glioma management, regardless of histopathological features. The oncometabolite 2HG has been proposed as a biomarker for IDH-specific genetic profiles for gliomas. We report clinical utility of SVS and 1H-MRSI using a long TE (97 ms) in assessing IDH-mutant gliomas by detecting the characteristic resonances of 2HG. Our results from 25 patients showed sensitivity and specificity of 77% and 83%, respectively. In conclusion, 1H-MRS with optimized TE can accurately detect 2HG levels, which has significant clinical implications for determining prognosis and evaluating therapeutic efficacy for targeted and/or alternative therapies.
Segmentation of Contrast Enhancing Gliomas and Whole Brain Multi-Parametric Mapping in a 6-minute Scan without Injecting Contrast
Authors: Liu Jing , Jakary Angela , Xu Duan , Villanueva-Meyer Javier , Butowski Nicholas , Clarke Jennifer , Taylor Jennifer , Bush Nancy Ann Oberheim , Lupo Janine
Published: August 2024

Multiple brain MRI sequences are routinely applied for tissue characterization and lesion detection, by acquiring multi-contrast anatomical images. We developed a single continuous data acquisition to generate multi-contrast images with high acquisition efficiency, which allows automatic brain tissue segmentation and lesion detection without contrast injection. Multi-compartment model-based dictionary searching method was developed to derive multi-parametric mapping, including T1, T2 and macromolecular proton fraction mapping. This short imaging acquisition (6 mins versus conventional ~30 mins scan time) without use of contrast injection and the efficient processing pipeline (automatic segmentation and quantitative mapping) can provide great potentials for imaging brain tumor patients.
Conversion of legacy data of nonclinical trials using MRI into CDISC SEND: Toward Standardization of an Animal MR Imaging Data
Authors: Lee Do-Wan , Cho Young Chul , Kim Mi-hyun , Chae Yeon Ji , Ham Su Jung , Ko Yousun , Na Seongwon , Shin Youngbin , Kim Nari , Woo Dong‐Cheol , Kim Kyung Won
Published: August 2024

In nonclinical animal research for new drug development, the US FDA mandates to manage data in accordance with clinical data interchange standards consortium (CDISC) standard for exchange of nonclinical data (SEND). Older nonclinical trial data, i.e., legacy nonclinical trial data, contain highly useful information but those data were created in various data formats by different researchers. The present study specifically describes how to implement the CDISC SEND data standards for the legacy nonclinical trial data with MRI. Standardization of animal MRI data with CDISC SEND enables us to utilize legacy data for next-generation drug development and new knowledge creation.
Semi-automated analysis to reduce operator variability in oxygen extraction fraction using susceptometry-based oximetry
Authors: Su Bo-Jhen , Wu Pei-Hsin , Deshpande Rajiv , Wehrli Felix
Published: August 2024

SvO2 and OEF were estimated via susceptometry-based oximetry (SBO). The impact of user-defined ROI was investigated in this study. The results show that (1) the consistency of SvO2 estimation depends on operators’ comprehension of MR-oximetry, (2) SvO2 might be under-estimated with manual ROI selection, and (3) the operator-induced bias can be eliminated by the semi-automatic analysis. The preliminary data indicate the feasibility of the constructed semi-automatic analysis for consistent estimation of SvO2 among operators and its potential for bulk analysis and clinical use.
The Value of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI in differential diagnosis of solid ovarian tumors with diffusion restriction
Authors: Meng Ying , Liang Yuting , Wang Xinlian , Wang Keyang , Xie Lizhi
Published: August 2024

DWI can differentiate benign and malignant lesions by reflecting the diffusion of water molecules in lesions, which has become a routine sequence of MRI examination of gynecological tumors. Generally, DWI signal is high, which will alert to the possibility of malignancy, while benign tumors also show high DWI signal. For solid ovarian tumors with high signal intensity on DWI, the differential diagnosis of ovarian tumors is still a difficult point in routine MRI sequence diagnosis. The results of this study showed that DCE-MRI quantitative parameters of solid ovarian masses were helpful for differential diagnosis of benign and malignant.
MT and CEST MRI of in vitro gastric protein digestion
Authors: Mayar Morwarid , de Vries Mart , Smeets Paul , van Duynhoven John , Terenzi Camilla
Published: August 2024

Gastric digestion of dietary protein is commonly studied using in vitro digestion models, which need to be verified with in vivo data. Here, we used MT and CEST MRI to monitor in vitro gastric digestion of milk proteins. We show that MT and CEST measurements can be used to monitor the breakdown of the initially-formed semi-solid protein coagulum and hydrolysis of soluble proteins. We also demonstrate that RF-based ratiometric CEST analysis can be used for pH mapping in both acid- and base-catalyzed regions. Our results open the way to quantification of in vivo protein digestion with the use of MRI.
Feasibility of routine brain imaging at 0.55T: initial experience in a clinical workflow
Authors: Lavrova Anna , Richardson Jacob , Kurokawa Ryo , Kurokawa Mariko , Itriago-Leon Pedro , Gulani Vikas , Hussain Hero , Wright Katherine , Moritani Toshio , Seiberlich Nicole
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study is to assess the quality of brain imaging studies performed on an FDA-approved commercial 0.55T MRI system, and to provide information about the feasibility of using this scanner in a clinical workflow. The image quality of 1356 image series (378 in healthy subjects, 978 in patients) was independently rated by two neuroradiologists. While images from T1w SPACE, DWI/ADC, FLAIR, SWI, and T2w TSE sequences received acceptable image quality scores, contrast-enhanced T1w TSE sequence received lower, although acceptable, average scores. Our results suggest that neurological MRI studies for some indications can be performed at 0.55T.
High-Resolution Myelin Water Imaging Using MPnRAGE
Authors: Weaver Jayse , Kecskemeti Steven , Guerrero-Gonzalez Jose , Alexander Andrew , Dean Douglas
Published: August 2024

A T1-only method to extract a quantitative myelin water fraction, utilizing a 3D radial k-space MPnRAGE sequence that reconstructs hundreds of different inversion time (TI) images in the same scan used for high-resolution T1-weighted morphometry was developed. To address high sensitivities to additive image noise of this complex model, a multi-pass fitting algorithm was prototyped that provides educated initial guesses and constraints on the underlying parameters.
Hyperactive BOLD response in presymptomatic AD mice model as potential biomarker of early AD
Authors: You Taeyi , Lee Taekwan , Im Geun Ho , Kim Seong-gi , Chung Sungkwon , Lee Jung Hee
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer Disease is a neurodegenerative disease that exhibits memory and cognitive deficits. Majority of research has targeted these late-stage biomarkers as treatment targets, yet all have failed in the clinical settings. Detection of early biomarkers is becoming imperative that can be easily and effectively used. fMRI is a quick and non-invasive procedure that can map whole brain activity. Here we use sensory evoked fMRI in a AD mouse model to show longitudinal changes in brain response that can be potential biomarkers for early AD.
Older Brain Age Prediction Using Functional Brain Network Efficiency Linked to Early Disorder Onset among Depression and Epilepsy Patients
Authors: Jacob Yael , Verma Gaurav , Morris Laurel , Marcuse Lara , Fields Madeline , Murrough James W Murrough , Balchandani Priti
Published: August 2024

Brain network organization, and specifically its efficiency, is known to be associated with age, implying older brain exhibit reduced network efficiency. Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging, we investigate if estimated brain age according to functional network efficiency is deviant from chronological age in major depressive disorder (MDD) and Epilepsy patients (EP). Global network efficiency significantly predicted chronological age among HC. Importantly, we found the differences between predicted and true brain age among MDD and EP patients were significantly associated with age at onset, indicating that the prediction of an older age brain is associated with early age disorder onset.
Altered static and dynamic spontaneous neural activity in adolescent with first episode major depressive disorder and previous suicide attempts
Authors: Cheng Xiaofang , Chen Jianshan , Zhang Xiaofei , Wang Ting , Sun Jiaqi , Zhou Yanling , Yang Ruilan , Xiao Yeyu , Chen Amei , Song Ziyi , Chen Pinrui , Yang Chanjuan , Wu Qiuxia , Lin Taifeng , Chen Yingmei , Xu Yongzhou , Cao Liping , Wei Xinhua
Published: August 2024

This study combined dynamic and static amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) approaches to investigate the differences in local spontaneous brain activities between depressed adolescents with and without suicide attempts (SA). Our findings suggest that alterations in brain activities in regions involved in emotional processing, decision-making, and response inhibition are associated with an increased risk of suicidal behaviors in depressed adolescents.
Where is Pain in the Brain? Revealing Neural Correlates of Pain as Orchestration of Allostatic Domain-General Patterns via fMRI at 7T
Authors: Reimann Henning , Heij Jurjen , Gladytz Thomas , Niendorf Thoralf
Published: August 2024

To date, fMRI has failed to distinguish an unambiguous and reliable signature that is unique to pain. Pain is accompanied by the activation of networks related to saliency processing. Employing the high sensitivity and spatial fidelity of 7T fMRI, we disentangle these overlapping representations. We apply stimuli that are perceived as painful and others that trigger saliency-related domain-general brain activity. Applying partial least square regression, we identify modality-specific characteristics in the way domain-general patterns are orchestrated relative to each other, revealing a large number of neurosignatures that are specific to the perception of pain.
The effect of black blood and fat suppression prepulses on signal modelling in T1-mapping and dynamic contrast enhanced MRI
Authors: Stehling Wilhelm , Wennen Myrte , Schrauben Eric , van Ooij Pim , Yeung Kak Khee , Nederveen Aart , Gurney-Champion Oliver
Published: August 2024

In this work, we derived an equation describing the signal evolution during an SGRE sequence with preparation pulses. The signal changes especially during the earlier RF pulses and differs from the values for later RF pulses, where it approaches the signal from an SPGR sequence without prepulses. Using the derived equation might enable more accurate DCE examinations.
Advanced-Model 3D DCE-MRI of Small Animals with Spatially Regularized Processing Steps
Authors: Jirik Radovan , Macicek Ondrej , Bartos Michal , Mangova Marie , Rajmic Pavel , Hyvlova Denisa , Starcuk Zenon
Published: August 2024

In DCE-MRI, advanced pharmacokinetic models, such as the 2CX, TH and ATH models, provide a more complete set of pharmacokinetic parameters than the commonly used simpler models, such as the Tofts and Patlak models. However, their use requires higher temporal resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. Hence, advanced-model DCE-MRI allows for imaging of only a few slices. We present an approach making 3D advanced-model DCE-MRI possible and evaluate it under the low-signal-to-noise-ratio conditions of small-animal MRI. Our methodology is based on compressed sensing and spatially regularized fitting of the pharmacokinetic model. The approach is evaluated on simulated and real datasets.
The Influence of the MT effect on the Accuracy of T1 Quantification by the Dual Flip Angle Method
Authors: Hu Zhen , Zhu Dan , Qin Qin
Published: August 2024

The dual flip angle (DFA) method is widely used for brain T1 quantification. In addition to the well-known RF field effect, this study investigated the overlooked magnetization transfer (MT) effect for the accuracy of in-vivo T1 mapping. Based on the two-pool Bloch simulation, the DFA derived T1 estimation revealed FA and TR dependence, which was confirmed by the in-vivo brain T1 mapping using the same set of sequence parameters. Longer TR (30 ms) reduced the variation between FA pairs and were closer to the literature values, but at the cost of longer acquisition time.
Assessment of breast lesions using amide proton transfer-weighted imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging: a pilot study
Authors: Zhuang Lulu , Lian Chun , Wang Zehao , Zhang Ximin , Wu Zhigang , Gu Qingping , Huang Rong
Published: August 2024

MRI is a non-invasive method for breast lesions diagnosis. However, some imaging features of benign and malignant lesions in breast are still overlap. APT-weighted imaging (APTw) is a endogenous biomarker that allows non-invasive visualization of tissue composition and microscopic information for mobile proteins and peptides. The present study explores the feasibility of the combination of APT and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging to assess of breast lesions. Results of this study indicate the APT value has significant difference between benign and malignant breast lesions.
Topology of visual cortical connections shapes spatial structure of perception
Authors: Jiang Chunxiang , Metcalf Alun , Briggs Jack , Zhang Lijuan , Song Chen
Published: August 2024

Visual experience is highly spatial. Much of what we perceive, we perceive in space. However, the spatial structure of visual experience is often taken for granted and its neural mechanism is rarely studied. Here we tested a novel theoretical framework that proposes lateral connections in primary visual cortex as the neural basis underlying the spatial structure of visual experience. We found that the inhomogeneity in spatial localization ability across visual field correlated with the variability in lateral connection length across primary visual cortex, suggesting a mapping between the topography of visual cortical connectivity and the spatial structure of visual perception.
The Restoration Ability of Short Nap after Sleep Deprivation on the Brain Cognitive Function: A Dynamic Functional Connectivity Analysis
Authors: Xu Ziliang , Zheng Minwen , Zhu Yuanqiang
Published: August 2024

As we known, consequences caused by Sleep deprivation (SD) are temporary and can be fully reversed with sufficient sleep. However, in many cases, long-duration recovery sleep is not feasible. Inspire by recent study, a short nap may be sufficient for rapid reversal of SD-induced brain function deficits. Based on dynamic functional connectivity and psychomotor vigilance task, our results showed that temporary cognitive impairment cause by SD could reversed to some extent by a nap. Additionally, dominant DFC states differed before and after SD, and their relative proportions affected the degree of cognitive impairment after SD and recovery after a nap.
Microstructure and connectivity alterations in a novel mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Maharjan Surendra , Jewett Megan , Wallace Abigail , Wang Nian
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease is a common neurodegenerative dementia. Although disease has no cure, early intervention can help to maintain normal mental function and slow down the progression of the disease. A comprehensive study incorporating diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), brain connectivity and fixel-based analysis (FBA) is still lacking. Hence, we aim to apply these methods in a novel SAA mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. We found there was significant difference in cortex and hippocampus in between control B6 and SAA groups.
Inhibition of phospholipase A2 by mepacrine reduces total choline in a rat model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Bailey Colleen , Hatolkar Ved , Oakden Wendy , Koletar Margaret , McLaurin JoAnne , Near Jamie
Published: August 2024

We examined the effect of the PLA2 inhibitor mepacrine on the levels of choline and other brain metabolites in the TgF344-AD rat model of Alzheimer's disease. Previous studies have demonstrated elevated levels of brain cholines in this model, similar to those observed in humans and attributed to increased membrane turnover. Total choline was higher in transgenic animals at baseline, but decreased following mepacrine treatment. Total choline also decreased in wildtype animals following treatment, consistent with the hypothesis that mepacrine reduces PLA2-mediated membrane turnover. Based on this finding, MRS choline measures may also serve as a biomarker for PLA2-mediated inflammatory processes.
Altered patterns of brain iron deposition in end-stage renal disease patients with depression
Authors: Li Yuan , Jiang Yuhan , Gao Bingbing , Qu Mingrui , Lin Liangjie , Song Qingwei , Miao Yanwei
Published: August 2024

Both depression and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) may affect the pattern of iron deposition in human brain. This study aimed to quantify the changes of brain iron deposition in ESRD patients with and without depression using quantitative susceptibility mapping, and to further explore the effect of depression on iron deposition pattern in ESRD patients. Results showed that ESRD patients had increased brain iron deposition compared with heathy controls, especially in the left putamen and the right red nucleus, and ESRD patients with depression had less increase in iron deposition than those without depression.
Stereotactic MRI-guided radiosurgery using AI resting state networks recognition
Authors: Ancari Luis , Vergne Abril , Popolo María Del , Alvarez Guillermo , Lisazo Clara , González Federico , Moguilner Sebastián , Melchor Maximo , González Trinidad , Fino Daniel
Published: August 2024

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces tumor size without subjecting surrounding organs at risk (OAR) to harmful radiation levels. The delimitation of OAR in SRS planning, and the conservation of the prescribed dose in tumoral regions, can be improved by the implementation of independent component analysis to obtain resting-state fMRI networks (RSNs). In this aspect, AI plays an important role to decrease computational-processing times while increasing the method’s efficiency. One of the main solved challenges was the lack of compatibility between the Nifti protocol (RSNs format) and the treatment planning system’s protocol (coordinate system of CT-simulation).
Myelin Measurement: Comparison Between Simultaneous Relaxometry, Inhomogeneous Magnetization Transfer Imaging, and Myelin Water Fraction
Authors: Nakaya Moto , Hagiwara Akifumi , Ozaki Masanori , Kusahara Hiroshi , Hoshino Yasunobu , Tomizawa Yuji , Yokoyama Kazumasa , Fujita Shohei , Andica Christina , Kamagata Koji , Hori Masaaki , Wada Akihiko , Abe Osamu , Aoki Shigeki
Published: August 2024

In 16 healthy adults, we examined the correlation between three MR myelin measurement methods, including myelin volume fraction (MVF) measured with simultaneous tissue relaxometry of R1 and R2 relaxation rates and proton density, inhomogeneous magnetization transfer imaging (ihMT), and myelin water fraction (MWF). A strong correlation was obtained between ihMT and MVF, and MWF was less correlated with the others. We should be mindful that these metrics are measuring different aspects of “myelin”.
Ultra rapid volumetric imaging for diagnosis in memory clinic: assessment of white matter hyperintensities quantification
Authors: Sudre Carole , Chughtai Haroon , Thomas David , Cash David , Rosa-Grilo Miguel , Beament Millie , Barkhof Frederik , Alexander Daniel , Mummery Cath , Fox Nick , Parker Geoff
Published: August 2024

Acquisition time is a crucial factor in the tolerability and availability of MRI examinations for patients attending memory clinics. The suitability of using prototype ultra-rapid sequences for the quantification of white matter hyperintensities was assessed by comparing segmentation outputs from standard clinical and ultra-rapid sequences. Despite a slightly lower sensitivity to smaller lesions, quantification of white matter hyperintensities when using ultra-rapid sequences was very highly correlated with lesion volumes obtained from standard sequences.
Validation of a Semi-Automated Method to Quantify Lesion Volume Changes in Multiple Sclerosis Using Subtraction Images
Authors: Mattiesing Rozemarijn , Stel Serena , Mangroe Alysha , Brouwer Iman , Versteeg Adriaan , van Schijndel Ronald , Uitdehaag Bernard , Barkhof Frederik , Vrenken Hugo , Kuijer Joost
Published: August 2024

Monitoring changes in white matter lesions with MRI is important to evaluate the effects of treatment in multiple sclerosis. In this study a validation of a semi-automated method to quantify lesion volume changes based on 2D proton-density-weighted images and image subtraction was performed. With this method new and enlarging but also disappearing and shrinking lesion activity can be quantified. As assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient for absolute agreement, we found that the reproducibility was excellent and the accuracy was good overall. This semi-automated subtraction method can reliably quantify lesion volume changes in patients with (early) multiple sclerosis.
DISCUS: Diffusion MRI Signal Reconstruction with Continuous Sampling
Authors: Ewert Christian , Kügler David , Yendiki Anastasia , Reuter Martin
Published: August 2024

DISCUS addresses two challenges currently limiting the analysis potential of diffusion MRI: sparsity of measurements and variability in q-space sampling schemes. Our method combines the advantages of model-fit approaches with continuous sampling (spherical harmonics, SHORE) and rigid, discrete learning-based methods. DISCUS can be initialized from any acquisition scheme and permits signal prediction for an arbitrary q-vector. Despite the added flexibility, DISCUS performs on par with other, far less flexible learning methods, while outperforming model-fit methods. DISCUS-derived signals translate to higher-quality FA estimates promising accurate analyses even from very short acquisitions.