bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voxel-based assessment of volumetric brain differences in patients with premanifest and early manifest Huntington’s disease
Authors: Morrison Melanie , Jakary Angela , Leynes Andrew , Yao Jingwen , Glueck Julia , Driscoll Theresa , Talkakson Joseph , Nelson Alexandra , Possin Katherine , Geschwind Michael , Hess Christopher , Lupo Janine
Published: August 2023

More robust and accurate methods are needed to characterize disease extent and progression of Huntington's disease in order to develop disease-modifying therapies. Here we used voxel-based morphometry to evaluate patterns of regional brain atrophy in premanifest and early manifest HD patients relative to healthy controls. We found typical wide-spread sub-cortical and cortical gray matter atrophy in early manifest patients and observed similar though less pronounced atrophy in premanifest patients. As the presence of volume loss prior to symptom onset remains controversial, this work contributes to existing evidence of atrophy initiating as early as the premanifest disease stage.
Quantitative MRI evaluation of reduced myelin content in white matter tracts in major depressive disorde
Authors: Misaki Masaya , Tsuchiyagaito Aki , Mulyana Beni , Kuplicki Rayus , Paulus Martin
Published: August 2023

Quantitative MRI (qMRI) of T1, T2, and proton density (PD) parameters can inform the brain's local microstructure, such as myelin content. We investigated the myelin alteration in white matter tracts for MDD participants compared to healthy controls by qMRI scanning using SyMRI software. MDD group had reduced myelin content in bilateral uncinate fasciculus, fornix, right external capsule, left tapetum, and genu of the corpus callosum regions. These results were consistent with previous reports about the white-matter microstructure alteration in MDD with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). The results indicate that myelin measurement with qMRI can be an alternative to DTI.
Decrease in magnetic susceptibility correlates with reduction in cortical blood flow in a model of systemic inflammation: A 9.4T in-vivo study
Authors: Shafqat Qandeel , Muhammed Rania , Sun Hongfu , Wu Ying , Hamilton A. Max , Hashem Mada , Dunn Jeff
Published: August 2023

Brain hypoxia is present in multiple sclerosis, a condition associated with inflammation. Hypoxia may be related to inflammation. Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) is sensitive to deoxyhemoglobin and so hypoxia. Here, we combined perfusion MRI with QSM to assess hypoxia and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inflammatory model. We report a reduction in susceptibility, as well as a significant reduction in CBF, in the cortex of the LPS model. As reduced tissue susceptibility was observed in more hypoxic subjects, this could be consistent with hypoxia in the inflammatory model, and QSM might be a possible biomarker.
Assessing Tissue Structure Differences Between RRMS and SPMS Patients Using Advanced Diffusion and MRI Texture Analysis
Authors: Oladosu Olayinka , Liu Wei-Qiao , Brown Lenora , Pike Bruce , Koch Marcus , Metz Luanne , Zhang Yunyan
Published: August 2023

Tissue structure changes underlying disease development and progression in MS are not fully understood. We investigated tissue structure in 29 RRMS and SPMS patients using advanced diffusion imaging and MRI texture measures using analyses over 3 spatial scales: white matter histogram analysis, tract ROI analysis, and along-tract statistics. We found that phase congruency texture analysis best differentiated RRMS and SPMS patients in histogram analysis. Diffusion measures differentiated the subtypes across all analyses in multiple tracts. The findings by advanced measures of tissue structure may further research into disease progression in MS.
Glymphatic System Evaluation in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Adults using Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Nunez Alba , Roy Bhaswati , Aysola Ravi , Kang Daniel , Kumar Rajesh
Published: August 2023

OSA is characterized by recurrent episodes of complete or partial collapse of the upper airway during sleep, leading to sleep fragmentation. The altered sleep architecture can potentially hinder the extracellular waste removal system known, the glymphatic system, which is known for clearing interstitial solutes, including beta amyloids. In this study, we evaluated the glymphatic system using non-invasive MRI based diffusion tensor imaging data analyses along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) in OSA patients and healthy controls, and show impaired glymphatic system in the condition.
T2 mapping in Alzheimer’s Disease from Standard Sequences
Authors: Chhetri Gitanjali , McPhee Kelly , Wilman Alan
Published: August 2023

T2 mapping was applied retrospectively to healthy subjects, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by deriving the T2 from modelling standard dual-echo proton density and T2-weighted fast spin echo sequence, as used in the Alzheimer’s disease and Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI-1). T2 differences were compared to volume changes in hippocampus and thalamus. In both regions, T2 mapping showed significant differences between MCI and healthy subjects while volume measures did not. Volume was more effective for distinguishing MCI from AD, due to profound hippocampal atrophy. By modelling actual refocusing angles, T2 mapping revealed differences between healthy, MCI and Alzheimer’s subjects.
Administration of ketone beta-hydroxybutyrate modulates 1H-MRS cortical GABA and Glu in healthy adults
Authors: Hone-Blanchet Antoine , Antal Botond , McMahon Liam , Lithen Andrew , van Nieuwenhuizen Helena , Smith Nathan , Lin Alexander , Yen Yi-Fen , Jenkins Bruce , Mujica-Parodi Liliane , Ratai Eva
Published: August 2023

Brain aging is highly correlated with deficiencies in glucose metabolism. Ketone beta-hydroxybutyrate (d-βHB) may represent an alternative fuel for energy metabolism in brain aging. This study assesses the neurochemical effect of an acute administration of d-βHB in the healthy human brain using MR spectroscopy. Results show that levels of GABA and Glu were significantly reduced in the posterior cingulate region after administration of d-βHB, but not glucose. Additionally, older age significantly predicted higher decreases in levels of both GABA and Glu. This suggests that administration of d-βHB alters normal cerebral metabolic profile in physiological brain aging.
Multi-site, longitudinal assessment of quantitative breast MRI variability using the CaliberMRI phantom
Authors: Gibbs Jessica , Le Nu , Karaulanov Todor , Wilmes Lisa , Newitt David , Keenan Kathryn , Joe Bonnie , Hylton Nola
Published: August 2023

Quantitative breast MRI data was acquired at seven clinical sites using the CaliberMRI phantom. T1 and DWI data were acquired, and the qCal software was used for analysis. Protocol adherence was assessed, quantitative measures were automatically derived, and variability between measurements was evaluated. Going forward, the phantom will be used for calibration as part of a program to assess quantitative accuracy in a large multi-site clinical trial. The phantom program will be expanded to other sites in the trial, with standardized reporting used to understand variability across sites.
Early treatment re-direction based on functional tumor volume at 3 and 6-week MRI for breast cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Onishi Natsuko , Gibbs Jessica , Li Wen , Newitt David , Price Elissa , LeStage Barbara , Symmans William , DeMichele Angela , Yau Christina , Group The I-SPY 2 Imaging Working , Consortium The I-SPY 2 , Esserman Laura , Hylton Nola
Published: August 2023

In the I-SPY2 breast cancer trial, functional tumor volume (FTV) derived from dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI is used as a longitudinal measure of response to adjust patient randomization and evaluate drug efficacy. I-SPY2 is introducing a treatment “escalation” option, giving patients the opportunity to re-direct to potentially more effective treatment based on early indication of inferior response by MRI. We retrospectively investigated the ability of FTV reduction to predict inferior outcome. Combined criteria using FTV reduction at 3 and 6 weeks of treatment showed high PPV and high sensitivity in early detection of non-responders.
Improving Ultra-High b-value Prostate Diffusion Image Reconstruction at 3T
Authors: Koonjoo Neha , Zhu Bo , Bhutto Danyal , Guidon Arnaud , Christensen Matthew , Harisinghani Mukesh , Rosen Matthew
Published: August 2023

Ultra-high b-value Diffusion-weighted Prostate MR is gaining more attention in medical imaging, due to the non-invasiveness of imaging and to better contrast of malignant tissues as the lower diffusivity of water molecules can enable early diagnosis of cancer. The main drawback of MR at ultra-high b-value is the poor resultant SNR of the reconstructed images. We propose to improve the image quality of the prostate data acquired at b=2000 s/mm2 using a machine learning based reconstruction approach. Significant increase in signal intensities in the central gland and peripheral zone of the prostate was observed in healthy subjects.
Quantitative analysis of ultrafast DCE-MRI to distinguish benign and malignant breast lesions in a clinical setting
Authors: Kazerouni Anum , Chen Yun An , Lind Callie , Youn Inyoung , Partridge Savannah , Rahbar Habib
Published: August 2023

We investigate the ability of quantitative measures derived from ultrafast DCE-MRI to improve breast MRI specificity for lesion diagnosis in a clinical setting. Sixty-nine women with BI-RADS 3, 4, or 5 lesions identified on clinical breast MRI exam, with subsequent diagnostic biopsy, were retrospectively identified. Ultrafast DCE-MRI was used to calculate semi-quantitative (bolus arrival time, max slope) and quantitative (Ktrans, vp) features for each lesion visible on the ultrafast series. Malignant lesions showed significantly higher vp compared to benign lesions. Combined with qualitative assessment of visibility on ultrafast DCE-MRI (“yes”/“no”), vp showed an AUC=0.73 for lesion diagnosis.
Multi-Shot Diffusion-Weighted Imaging of the Breast in the Supine Position
Authors: Moran Catherine , Middione Matthew , Mazzoli Valentina , McKay-Nault Jessica , Guidon Arnaud , Waheed Uzma , Rosen Eric , Poplack Steven , Rosenberg Jarrett , Ennis Daniel , Hargreaves Brian , Daniel Bruce
Published: August 2023

Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) in the supine position may provide a non-invasive, comfortable, and efficient MRI for breast cancer screening. The strong performance of multi-shot DWI in prone breast MRI has been established. However, supine breast MRI has increased motion, specific B0-inhomogeneity, and cardiac artifacts, all of which may affect multi-shot DWI. This work investigates supine multi-shot DWI of the breast with a flexible array coil. High image quality is achieved and the effects of number of shots and respiratory-gating are delineated. B0-inhomogeneity and ADCs in the supine position are reported including the potential effect of cardiac artifact on ADC measurement.
An Interactive App with Multi-parametric MRI - Whole Mount Histology Correlation for Enhanced Prostate MRI Training of Radiologists
Authors: Chatterjee Aritrick , Szasz Teodora , Munakami Milson , Karademir Ibrahim , Yusufishaq Mohamed , Martens Spencer , Wheeler Christina , Thomas Stephen , Karczmar Gregory , Oto Aytekin
Published: August 2023

We created an interactive application Learn Radiology with multi-parametric MRI - whole mount histology correlation for enhanced prostate MRI training of radiologists and validated whether the use of a newly created learning application can enhance prostate MRI training of radiologists using an observer study. Sensitivity (R1: 54%→64%, R2: 44%→59%, R3: 62%→72%), PPV (R1: 68%→76%, R2: 52%→79%, R3: 48%→65%) and confidence score (R1: 4.0±1.0→4.3±0.8, R2: 3.1±0.8→4.0±1.1, R3: 2.8±1.2→4.1±1.1, p<0.05) for prostate cancer diagnosis using mpMRI improved for all three radiologists along with inter-observer agreement (α 0.78→0.85) after being exposed to our developed teaching app.
Novel persistent tumor index to predict survival in pediatric high-grade gliomas treated with immunovirotherapy
Authors: Bag Asim , Holtrop Joseph , Zhang Silu , Scoggins Matthew , Li Yimei , Patni Tushar , Whitley Richard , Gillespie G , Markert James , Fiveash John , Li Rong , Bernstock Joshua , Johnston James , Friedman Gregory
Published: August 2023

Early indicators of the response to imunovirotherapy are currently limited due to the novelty of the therapies and unpredictability of responses. We propose using the persistent tumor index (PTI) derived from diffusion and perfusion MRI as a predictor of treatment response. In 10 high grade glioma patients treated with imunovirotherapy, only the baseline PTI measure was associated with progression free survival whereas other known imaging biomarkers of survival were not.
Phase-Contrast MRI for Quantifying Cerebrospinal Flow in Patients with Shunted Hydrocephalus
Authors: Ha Joseph , Doyle Eamon , Borzage Matthew , Chiarelli Peter , DPhil
Published: August 2023

We investigate a new approach to assess ventricular shunt function using phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC MRI). A flow phantom was constructed to assess CSF flows between 0-24 ml/hour. The PC MRI sequence showed strong flow correlation (R2 = .9671) even for flow velocities below 1 cm/s. The lowest non-zero CSF flow we measured was 1 ml/hour (0.02 cm/s), 67% lower than previously reported shunt flow measurements. The sequence was tested in a human subject after phantom calibration. With a 96 second duration, PC SHUNT shows promise as a practical means for determining shunt failure clinically.
Is the tremor relief in Parkinson’s disease ancillary benefits during the ablation of thalamic Vim using MR guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS)?
Authors: Baek Hongchae , Nagel Sean , Lockwood Daniel , Obusez Emmanuel , Jones Stephen E.
Published: August 2023

Essential tremor (ET) and tremor dominant Parkinson’s disease (PD) treatment using MRgFUS share the same therapeutic target and the thermal dose threshold to create a thalamic lesion at ViM. However, PD patients respond to treatment typically only during the last few sonications, whereas ET patients respond earlier, typically within the first few sonications. Furthermore, we confirmed that zona incerta (ZI) is commonly affected due to proximity to ViM, by using postoperative T2-weighted images fused with auto-segmented ViM and ZI, demonstrating a possible causal relationship between the lesion overlap with ZI that primarily reduces tremor reduction in PD patients.
1D Convolutional Neural Network as Regularizer for Learning DCE-MRI Reconstruction
Authors: Huang Zhengnan , Bae Jonghyun , Solomon Eddy , Moy Linda , Kim Sungheon , Johnson Patricia , Knoll Florian
Published: August 2023

We proposed to use a variational network (VN) reconstruction algorithm with a 1-dimensional convolutional neural network (CNN) as a temporal regularizer for DCE-MRI reconstruction in this study. We used our newly developed breast perfusion simulation pipeline, to generate simulate data and train the reconstruction model. The machine learning (ML) reconstruction shows non-inferior structural similarity and improved visual image quality when compared with the iGRASP reconstruction. The ML reconstruction also takes much less time than the iGRASP reconstruction.
ASL with Partial Separability to Incorporate SVD Denoising into the Reconstruction Algorithm
Authors: Marchini Charles , Sutton Brad
Published: August 2023

ASL methods result in low SNR. SVD denoising can be used to increase the temporal SNR of ASL data by throwing out the low energy singular values. The SVD can be done after a standard reconstruction, or as we show here during the reconstruction if partial separability is used. The incorporation of the SVD into the reconstruction algorithm allows for a higher tSNR within the gray matter. It also paves the path for future work in which subsampling the data results in higher temporal and spatial resolution ASL.
Optimizing k-space averaging patterns for advanced denoising-reconstruction methods
Authors: Wang Jiayang , Haldar Justin
Published: August 2023

This work investigates the potential value of combining non-uniform k-space averaging with advanced nonlinear image denoising-reconstruction methods in the context of low-SNR MRI. A new data-driven strategy for optimizing the k-space averaging pattern is proposed, and is then applied to total variation and U-net reconstruction methods. It is observed that non-uniform k-space averaging (with substantially more averaging at the center of k-space) is preferred for both reconstruction approaches, although the distribution of averages varies substantially depending on the noise level and the reconstruction method. We expect that these results will be informative for a wide range of low-SNR MRI applications.
Effective removal of aliasing artifacts in accelerated echo-planar imaging (EPI) based functional MRI (fMRI)
Authors: Han Silu , Ugonna Chidi , Chen Nan-kuei
Published: August 2023

An integrated post-processing algorithm has been developed for effectively removing various types of aliasing artifact due to consecutive echo asymmetry, in-plane k-space under-sampling, through-plane acceleration with multi-band (MB) imaging and motion-induced phase variations in EPI based fMRI data. This algorithm uses a novel two-dimensional (2D) coil-signature-based phase-cycled correction method for 2D Nyquist artifact removal without calibration scans, and is capable of simultaneously removing: (1) aliasing artifacts due to in-plane and through-plane acceleration in single-shot and multi-shot EPI; (2) motion-induced phase errors in multi-shot EPI. Experimental results illustrate the effectiveness of the developed method, and its successful application to fMRI studies.
In vivo phase-incrementing SEE-HSelMQC method to resolve tumor biomarker images by synchronizing RF phase increments and phase-encoding steps
Authors: He Qiuhong , Yuan Hong , Shih Yen-Yu
Published: August 2023

We have developed the phase-incrementing MRSI (pi-MRSI) method to resolve overlapping biomarker images in the presence of a frequency encoding gradient during acquisition time. We report here the pi-SEE-HSelMQC experiments on a pre-clinical Bruker 9.4T spectrometer. The choline-selective and lactate CH-selective RF pulses in the pulse sequence were phase incremented by 10° in opposite signs in synchronization with the phase-encoding steps. In vivo two-dimensional pi-SEE-HSelMQC imaging of lactate and choline acquired from the PC3 human prostate cancer xenograft in a nude mouse showed opposite image offsets, shifted away from spurious signals. The pi-SEE-HSelMQC method completely suppresses lipid and water.
Quadrature RF array using High Impedance concept for improved transmit RF field B1 efficiency at 7 Tesla
Authors: Payne Komlan , Zhang Xiaoliang
Published: August 2023

Decoupling performance between coil elements is one of the factors that limits the transmit B1 field efficiency and SNR. However, mutual coupling between coil elements is an inevitable electromagnetic interaction that alters the isolated current distribution and impedance of individual elements. In contrast to linear arrays, decoupling challenge of quadrature arrays is more pronounced. In the pursuit of low inter-coupling, a high-impedance technique is adopted. A quadrature hybrid coil composed of loop and microstrip is used in a planar configuration. By employing the high-impedance method, sufficient decoupling between quadrature coils is obtained without the use of additional decoupling network.
Fast 3D T1rho Dispersion MRI with Interleaved Phase Cycling MAPSS
Authors: Peng Qi , Wu Can
Published: August 2023

T1ρ dispersion imaging based on repeated T1ρ measurements at multiple spin-lock frequencies allows characterization of different dynamic processes of tissues. The clinical potential of this techniques is however limited by the total scan time needed to obtain reliable and consistent quantitative measurements. In this work, we propose an unpaired, interleaved phase-cycling scheme for T1ρ dispersion imaging, which almost reduces total scan time by a half compared with the traditional paired PC approach. This method, when combined with other advanced imaging and reconstruction techniques, could potentially enable high-resolution T1rho dispersion imaging acquired within clinically acceptable scan duration.
Combined Effect of Iron Overload and Steatosis on Liver R2* Using Morphological Modeling and MRI Signal Synthesis via Monte Carlo Simulations
Authors: Shrestha Utsav , Esparza Juan , Satapathy Sanjaya , Vanatta Jason , Tipirneni-Sajja Aaryani
Published: August 2023

Chemical-shift based multi-spectral fat-water models accounting for single or dual R2* correction are used to assess hepatic iron concentration (HIC) and fat fraction (FF). In this study, we developed a Monte-Carlo based approach for simulating steatosis and iron overload models mimicking the in-vivo characteristics and synthesizing MRI signal to compare the accuracy of the R2* models to estimate FF in the presence of iron. Our results show that R2* estimated by single R2* model is highly governed by iron whereas dual R2* model predicts R2*-FF relationship close to the in-vivo calibration. Nevertheless, FF predicted by both the models were close to the true FF.
Biophysical modeling of abnormal BOLD responses in Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy due to reduced arteriolar reactivity
Authors: Varadarajan Divya , Pfannmoeller Joerg , Hartung Grant , Polimeni Jonathan
Published: August 2023

A consistently slower and weaker blood-oxygenation-level-dependent (BOLD) fMRI response is consistently seen in patients with cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA).However, our mechanistic understanding of why this occurs in CAA is lacking. To improve our mechanistic understanding, we propose a hypothesis testing framework for simulating the relationship between of impaired microvascular function and the associated abnormal fMRI response. We use BOLD biophysical modeling to link microvascular dynamics with fMRI signals. Here we test whether reduced arteriolar reactivity predicts abnormal BOLD response in early- and late-stage CAA.
Deep-learning based rectal tumor localization and segmentation on multi-parametric MRI
Authors: Zhang Yang , Shi Liming , Zhou Weiwen , Sun Xiaonan , Yue Ning , Su Min-Ying , Nie Ke
Published: August 2023

Two deep learning methods using the convolutional neural network (CNN) was implemented to segment the rectal cancer in 197 LARC patients, with tumor ROI outlined by a radiologist. For each patient, six frames, including T2, 2 DWI sequences and 3 LAVA sequences, were used for training and validation. The Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) value were used to compare the results of the proposed algorithm and the ROI outlined by reader. The mean DSC was 0.67 and 0.78 from each these 2 method respectively. The proposed algorithms especially the combined serials of U-Net showed improved performance compared to prior published work with individual sequence only. Our work showed the deep-learning with combined image sequence can provide as a promising tool for fully automatic tumor localization and segmentation for rectal cancer.
The frequency dependence of the resting-state fMRI signal on macrovascular volume and orientation
Authors: Zhong Xiaole , Chen J. Jean
Published: August 2023

Frequency analysis of the BOLD fMRI signal is increasingly finding application, including in evaluating denoising procedures and biological brain changes. In resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI), the signal frequency can be biased by contributions from large vessels, but this phenomenon is uninvestigated. In this work, we show that the rs-fMRI frequency content varies with both vascular volume fraction and orientation. Moreover, arteries and veins contribute differently to these variations.
Addressing Acquisition Variability in DWI on Prostate Cancer with Unsupervised Methods
Authors: Gundogdu Batuhan , Pittman Jay , Chatterjee Aritrick , Medved Milica , Engelmann Roger , Oto Aytekin , Karczmar Gregory
Published: August 2023

Diffusion-weighted MR images are typically obtained as multiple acquisitions with multiple diffusion-sensitizing gradient directions. Due to molecular motion, some acquisitions suffer from signal loss at random locations. This affects cancer conspicuity and degrades the diagnostic efficacy of DWI. We propose an agglomerative clustering-based unsupervised method to address this. The model automatically rejects acquisitions of voxels that are likely to be corrupted by bulk motion and lack coherence with the rest of the acquisitions. We observed that this method both reduces the DWI signal variability and enhances the cancer detection accuracy.
NiBabies: A robust preprocessing workflow tailored for neonate and infant MRI
Authors: Goncalves Mathias , Markiewicz Christopher , Styner Martin , Moore Lucille , Snider Kathy , Earl Eric , Smyser Christopher , Zöllei Lilla , Poldrack Russel , Esteban Oscar , Feczko Eric , Fair Damien
Published: August 2023

Advances in both data acquisition and processing methods have given magnetic resonance imaging researchers (MRI) a plethora of options on how best to clean and standardize data before statistical analysis. Recently, there has been a surge in standardized data processing workflows, but special populations, such infants, require modified techniques not normally found in general pipelines. Here we introduce NiBabies, a robust and open-source structural and functional MRI preprocessing pipeline designed for infant populations.
MR thermometry using fingerprinting: application to lead heating
Authors: Qian Enlin , Poojar Pavan , Gultekin David H. , Vaughan J. Thomas , Shrivastava Devashish , Jin Zhezhen , Youngerman Brett E. , Geethanath Sairam
Published: August 2023

We explore the feasibility of noninvasive temperature measurement around deep brain stimulation (DBS) leads using magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) by leveraging 1) the dependency of T1 on temperature; 2) MRF’s efficient T1 and B0 mapping. We conducted a T1 and temperature calibration experiment and a lead calorimetry experiment on bovine muscle. The effects of B0 inhomogeneity and temperature profiles of different regions of interest (ROI) were investigated. The calibration showed a strong correlation between temperature and T1 (R2>0.98). We observed a maximum change of 10.2 oC near leads (~1mm away) during calorimetry experiments, validated by fluoroptic probes.
Visualizing and generating a quantitative map of short T2* tissues and producing CT-like imaging of bony structures using multi-echo UTE
Authors: Do Hung , Berkeley Dawn , Tymkiw Brian , Kadbi Mo
Published: August 2023

Two-dimensional Fast Spin Echo is a workhorse of clinical MRI. However, its minimum TE is in the order of milliseconds or tens of milliseconds, which limits its ability to image tissues with short T2*. This work aims to optimize the multi-echo ultra-short echo time (UTE) sequence to (i) visualize, (ii) generate an associated quantitative map of tissues with short T2*, and (ii) to produce CT-like images of bony structures, which often are not visible in clinical images routinely acquired using FSE sequence.
Comparison of Quantitative BOLD and Vascular MRF for Mapping Brain Oxygenation
Authors: Le Linh , Wheeler Gregory , Christen Thomas , Zaharchuk Greg , Fan Audrey
Published: August 2023

We compared two approaches of quantitative Blood-Oxygenation Level-Dependent (qBOLD) and vascular MR Fingerprinting (vMRF) to map brain oxygenation from Gradient-Echo Sampling of Free Induction Decay and Echo (GESFIDE) scans acquired during normoxic, hyperoxic, and hypoxic gas breathing conditions. In 12 healthy subjects, OEF calculated from qBOLD (qOEF) and OEF generated from vMRF (vOEF) were inversely correlated to pulse oxygenation (SaO2) (p=0.032 and p=0.014, respectively), indicating that qBOLD and vMRF are reliable methods for brain oxygenation mapping.
MR-guided Focused Ultrasound of the Dorsal Root Ganglion for the Treatment of Low Back Pain: Preclinical Study in a Peripheral Nerve Injury Model
Authors: Rieke Viola , Floyd Candace , Payne Allison , Odeen Henrik , Zabriskie Matt , Kline Michelle , Hadley Rock , Merrill Robb , Shah Lubdha
Published: August 2023

Many of the currently available low back pain (LBP) treatments are invasive with associated risks and complications. MR-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) is a lower risk, completely non-invasive alternative modality. We developed a large animal chronic LBP model, induced by peripheral nerve injury, and evaluated the response with quantitative sensory testing (QST). Here we investigate the ability to decrease neuropathic LBP with FUS neuromodulation of the spinal dorsal root ganglion with MRgFUS. Our data suggest that the QST techniques are sensitive indicators of pain and that effects on pain reduction can be detected using this clinically relevant evaluation method.
Repeatability and Robustness of MP-GRASP T1 Mapping
Authors: Li Zhitao , Yang Yang , Feng Li
Published: August 2023

The repeatability of fast 3D T1 mapping using MP-GRASP (Magnetization-Prepared Golden-angle RAdial Sparse Parallel) MRI and its robustness to variation of imaging parameters including flip angle in phantom and brain were demonstrated. The experiments showed that MP-GRASP has a good robustness to B1 inhomogeneity, with intra-slice repeatability below 1% in the single tube phantom experiment. The longitudinal experiments also yielded good repeatability both in phantom (<2.5%) and in the brain (<2%) under various imaging conditions. The T1 values estimated are accurate relative to inversion recovery spin echo (IR-SE) gold standard (R2=0.997, Lin’s CCC=0.996).
Fabrication Methods for Stretchable, Self-tuning Multi-element Liquid Metal Coil Arrays (LiquiTune)
Authors: Motovilova Elizaveta , Ching Terry , Vincent Jana , Shin James , Tan Ek Tsoon , Taracila Victor , Robb Fraser , Hashimoto Michinao , Sneag Darryl , Winkler Simone
Published: August 2023

We recently proposed a self-tuning stretchable receive coil concept in a single element. Here, we expand the technique to a multi-element array and compare 3 fabrication techniques: 1) single layer, 2) double layer, 3) direct ink writing (DIW). Numerical simulations are used to find the critical overlap for decoupling. In vitro experiments demonstrate almost identical sensitivity between the 3 techniques and between coil elements. DIW is most suitable due to its mechanical stability and thinner/less MR-visible coil elements with a frequency stability of 128+/-0.6 MHz (0 to 30% of stretch) and an SNR improvement of 50% over a commercial coil.
A Dielectric Material Coated Half-Wave Dipole antenna for Ultrahigh Field MRI at 7T/300MHz
Authors: Bhosale Aditya , Gawande Divya , Zhang Xiaoliang
Published: August 2023

The potential of half-wave dipole antennas in MRI is primarily recognized. This study presents the dielectric material-coated half-wave dipole antenna design and compares it with the conventional half-wave dipole antenna. The design includes a high dielectric material coating around the length of each conductor. The dipole length primarily determines the resonant frequency of a dipole antenna; therefore, it is difficult to tune small half-wave dipole antennas less than 50 cm at 300MHz. Our design provides a solution to this problem and can tune smaller half-wave dipole antennas at 300MHz without meandering the dipole conductors.
An 8-Channel High-permittivity Dielectric Material-Coated Half-Wave Dipole Antenna Array for Knee Imaging at 7T
Authors: Bhosale Aditya , Ying Leslie L , Zhang Xiaoliang
Published: August 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging for Musculoskeletal imaging plays a vital role in the early detection of various abnormalities. New array systems designed explicitly for Musculoskeletal imaging at Ultra-high field strengths are being developed rapidly. In this study, we propose a new 8-channel array system consisting of High-permittivity dielectric material-coated half-wave dipole antennas for knee imaging at Ultra-high field 7 Tesla.
High resolution retinal blood flow MRI using a new acquisition strategy for MRI of curved objects
Authors: Muir Eric
Published: August 2023

The retina has highly structured laminar organization, with two separate blood supplies, the retinal and the choroidal blood flow layers. Retinal MRI has generally used a single thick 2D slice. Extension to 3D retinal MRI is difficult due to the curvature of the eye and limited SNR at the needed high resolution. A new acquisition strategy for MRI of curved objects was developed, in which high-resolution is acquired perpendicular to the retina but with low-resolution tangent to the retina. This approach gave significant gains in SNR and provided laminar resolution of the retinal and choroidal blood flow in 3D.
Introduction of the Right Ventricular-Arterial Coupling Index in CMR Reflecting Lung Histological Changes in Experimental PAH
Authors: Nahardani Ali , Grün Katja , Krämer Martin , Herrmann Karl-Heinz , Schrepper Andrea , Moradi Sara , Reichenbach Jürgen R. , Franz Marcus , Hoerr Verena
Published: August 2023

The current preclinical study aims to investigate the associativity between the ventricular-arterial coupling index (VAC) derived by CMR and microscopic vascular changes in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). To this end, three stages of disease were incorporated in the study: healthy, moderate, and severe. All animals underwent CMR and echocardiography. The corresponding lung tissue was also assessed histologically. The right VAC could predict the presence of histopathological changes with r=-0.95 and had a strong correlation with tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (r=0.90).
High resolution Isotropic 3D Black Blood Thoracic Aorta Imaging With Low Rank Patch-Based Reconstruction
Authors: shi caiyun , liu yuanyuan , cheng guanxu , qi yulong , wang haifeng , zhang lei , liu xin , zheng hairong , liang dong , zhu yanjie
Published: August 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) black-blood MRI is a promising noninvasive imaging technique for assessing aortic atherosclerotic plaque. In this work, a low rank patch-based technique is proposed, and combined with a 3D modulated vFA-FSE sequence for high-resolution thoracic aorta imaging. The comparison was conducted on healthy volunteers and compared against a conventional GRAPPA acquisition to assess the feasibility of the proposed scheme. The results showed the reconstruction scheme was able to visualize the lumen areas clearly and improve the vessel sharpness and contrast ratio significantly.
Vulnerable plaque characteristics on MR vessel wall imaging predict hemodynamic instability during carotid artery stenting
Authors: Meng Qi , Jiang Chao , Zhao Keqiang , Zhang Huabin , Zhao Hongliang , Zhao Xihai , Wu Weiwei , Zheng Zhuozhao
Published: August 2023

It has been shown that about 30%-70% of the patients underwent carotid artery stenting (CAS) suffered from perioperative hemodynamic instability (HI) characterized by transient hypotension and bradycardia. This study investigated the association between vulnerable plaque characteristics on MR vessel wall imaging and HI during CAS. We found that patients in HI group had significantly larger wall area and total vessel area, higher prevalence of intraplaque hemorrhage and vulnerable plaque, and larger volume of lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC) of carotid plaque compared to those in non-HI group. The volume of LRNC and presence of vulnerable plaque could effectively predict HI.
Rapid high-resolution mapping of cerebral blood flow and volume by dynamic BOLD MRI with transient hypoxia in mice
Authors: Lee Dongkyu , Le Thi Thuy , Im Geun Ho , Kim Seong-Gi
Published: August 2023

Noninvasive perfusion mapping is important to determine perfusion changes due to molecular and neuropathological modifications as well as pharmaceutical interventions. Here, we adopted a dynamic BOLD-MRI method for quantifying whole brain perfusion, such as cerebral blood volume (CBV) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) without the use of exogenous contrast agents in mice. High-resolution perfusion maps allow us to determine regional perfusion values and cortical depth-dependency. The proposed technique is non-invasive and repeatable with every <1 min temporal resolution and can combine with evoked fMRI studies for determining a neural activity-induced quantitative change of perfusion parameters.
Single-breath-hold whole heart coronary MRA using 3D turbo-field-echo-planar-imaging (TFEPI) with Compressed SENSE framework
Authors: Kodaira Kazuo , Nagao Michinobu , Yoneyama Masami , Kato Mana , Ogawa Takumi , Hamatani Yutaka , Shiina Isao , Goto Yasuhiro , Sakai Shuji
Published: August 2023

Conventional whole-heart-coronary-magnetic-resonance-angiography (WHC-MRA) using NAV has a limitation of long scan time. Single-breath-hold-multi-shot-gradient-EPI can significantly reduce scan time of WHC-MRA, but it may be difficult depending on the gradient-spec of MRI-system. 3D-turbo-field-echo-planar-imaging (TFEPI) with Compressed-SENSE (C-SENSE) has the possibility to solve these problems. However, it is yet not applied for WHC-MRA. C-SENSE is suitable for subjects with a high sparse such as vessels, and can accelerate scan time of WHC-MRA while ensuring image quality. We propose a new combination of TFEPI with C-SENSE for single-breath-hold WHC-MRA, and examine image quality and scan time in comparison to the conventional methods.
Reduced coupling between global blood-oxygen-level-dependent signal and cerebrospinal fluid inflow is related to small vessel disease
Authors: Zhang Yao , Zhang Ruiting , Zhang Minming , Zhang Yong , Huang Peiyu
Published: August 2023

The association between the glymphatic dysfunction and cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) is still unclear due a lack of in vivo measures. In this work, we employed a novel method based on the coupling between global blood-oxygen-level-dependent (gBOLD) signal and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) inflow, which could detect alterations in CSF dynamics. We found that patients with severe SVD had significantly impaired glymphatic function. The dilation of peri-vascular space and the presence of diabetes were associated with worse glymphatic function. These results may provide useful knowledge for understanding the mechanism of SVD and improving clinical treatment.
The feasibility of radiomic analysis based on T1 mapping to distinguish between hypertensive heart disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Liu Shengliang , Lian Jianxiu , Li Haixia , Wang Guokun , Li Yunling , Zhao Yanming , Xu Bing , Yu Bo
Published: August 2023

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hypertensive heart disease (HHD) share similar features, such as thickened left ventricular (LV) wall and reduced compliance, which make it difficult to distinguish HCM from HHD clinically. In this retrospective study, patients with HCM and HHD were enrolled to evaluate the feasibility of radiomic analysis to differentiate between these two diseases. For all calculated texture analysis (TA) features, AUCs of nine parameters had the values above 0.65, Logarithm_glszm_ZoneEntropy reached the best performance than other parameters (AUC: 0.790, sensitivity: 71.4 %, specificity: 81.8 %, P < 0.01).
Detail-preserving multi-scale deep learning reconstruction for cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Zou Juan , Li Cheng , Wu Ruoyou , Xue Zhenzhen , Liu Xin , Zheng Hairong , Wang Shanshan
Published: August 2023

Fast data acquisition and high-quality image reconstruction are vital for dynamic MRI, which can capture both anatomical and temporal information. High-resolution acquisition approaches in k-space and super-resolution approaches after reconstruction have been frequently reported. However, these methods may get details lost at high acceleration factors. To address this issue, we propose a multi-scale detail preserving reconstruction method for dynamic MR images. The residuals of multi-scale intermediate images in the iterative procedure are explored and the temporal and spatial dependencies between frames are considered. Promising results are achieved by the proposed method at the high acceleration factor of 11.
Fast 3D Wheel Acquisition: Comparison of Efficacy for Cerebral MR Angiography with Conventional Parallel Imaging
Authors: Hanamatsu Satomu , Murayama Kazuhiro , Ohno Yoshiharu , Yamamoto Kaori , Obama Yuki , Ikeda Hirotaka , Nagata Hiroyuki , Ikedo Masato , Yui Masao , Iwase Akiyoshi , Toyama Hiroshi
Published: August 2023

To the best of our knowledges, there are no major papers that assess the influence of Fast 3D wheel to cerebral MR angiography in patients with cerebrovascular diseases. We hypothesize that “Fast 3D wheel (Fast 3Dw)” has a potential to reduce examination time without degradation of image quality and aneurysm or vascular evaluations, when compared with PI. The purpose of this study was to directly compare the efficacy of Fast 3Dw for cerebral MR angiography with conventional PI in patients with cerebral aneurysm.
Comparison analysis of imaging techniques about routine, different acceleration factor coefficients of compressed sensing and PETRA TOF-MRA
Authors: Hao Xiangcheng , Wang Shaoyu , Zhang Huapeng , Zhao He , Gao Yang
Published: August 2023

We compare three MRA techniques between CS-TOF, PI-TOF and PETRA-TOF about imaging quality and speed, and also compared the effects of different acceleration factor coefficients (4.6×, 7.2×, 10.3×) on CS-TOF-MRA images on a 3T MR scanner.
Non-contrast-enhanced mDixon water-fat separation whole-heart coronary MRA with a deep learning constrained Compressed SENSE reconstruction
Authors: Liu Wenyun , Zhang Lei , Li Cheng , Sun Yuejiao , Qiu Ying , Zhu Yi , Jiang Ke , Wang Shuo , Zhang Huimao
Published: August 2023

The conventional 3D whole-heart free-breathing coronary MR angiography suffers from a long scan time. However, using very high acceleration factors leads to degradation of image quality due to insufficient noise removal. In this study, we use Compressed-SENSE Artificial Intelligence (CS-AI) framework to acquire highly accelerated 3D non-contrast-enhanced mDixon water-fat separation whole-heart CMRA. The result shows that CS-AI reconstruction can significantly decrease scan time with sufficient image quality compared to Compressed-SENSE(CS) and might be clinically useful in assessment of coronary artery disease.
Atherosclerotic ischemic recurrent stroke patients: a nomogram model of risk factors and risk prediction
Authors: Ma Niane , Zhang XiaoLing , Lei Xiaoyan , Tang Min , Li Ling , Yan Xuejiao , Ai Kai
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to construct a diagnostic model of recurrent stroke with the combination of high resolution MRI imaging characteristics and clinical parameters. The vessel wall characteristics of plaque and clinical data were compared between stroke and recurrent stroke patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was explored, seven risk factors (plaque burden, fibrous cap, hyperdense, hemorrhage, HbA1, low density lipoprotein and smoke) were independent risk factors for recurrent stroke patients. Then a nomogram model was established for risk prediction.
Fiber-specific white matter reductions in older adults with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Andica Christina , Kamagata Koji , Uchida Wataru , Takabayashi Kaito , Saito Yuya , Shimoji Keigo , Kaga Hideyoshi , Someya Yuki , Tamura Yoshifumi , Kawamori Ryuzo , Watada Hirotaka , Hori Masaaki , Aoki Shigeki
Published: August 2023

We performed fixel-based analysis, which implements the Multi-Shell Multi-Tissue Constrained Spherical Deconvolution method, to investigate the effect of metabolic syndrome (MetS) on fiber-specific white matter (WM) integrity and assess its association with MetS-related components or cognitive or motor functions. Our findings provide evidence of WM degeneration, as reflected by reduced microstructural fiber density and macrostructural fiber bundle cross-section, in regions associated with cognitive and motor functions in MetS. We also observed reduced fiber density in the corticospinal tract in preMetS. Finally, our findings clarified visceral fat accumulation, insulin resistance, and arterial stiffness as risk factors for WM alterations in MetS.
Automatic segmentation and reconstruction of liver vascular structure on MRI with a deep learning model
Authors: Li Mengsi , Hong Yanjie , Yu Zhixuan , Zheng Dandan , Wang Jin
Published: August 2023

The accurate segmentation of liver vascular structure is one of the key components of automated radiological diagnosis. Unfortunately, accurate vessel segmentation in clinical practice usually relies on the manual delineation by radiologists on each slice, which is extremely tedious and time-consuming. We developed and evaluated a new liver vessel segmentation and reconstruction workflow, which consist of a 3D Res-Net, a 2D Dense-Net and a 3D U-net model, allows for automated extraction of the portal vein, hepatic vein and inferior vena cava on 3D contrast enhanced portal venous phase MR images.
Comparison and Optimization b-Values combination of liver Diffusion-Weight Imaging in hepatic stiffness discrimination
Authors: Yuan Jie , Tan Wenli , Zhan Songhua , Gong Zhigang , Dai Yongming
Published: August 2023

DWI can indirectly reflect the changes of tissue microstructure by detecting the direction and extent of water molecule diffusion. In liver fibrosis, collagen fibers and cell membranes may block the diffusion of water molecules, resulting in changes in the diffusion signal. B-value selection is closely related to the image quality of DWI. Previous studies have found the correlation between tissue water diffusivity and tissue elasticity in the liver. However, there are no widely accepted ADC values on the b-value combination for the stiffness of liver fibrosis. Therefore, the study of b-value combination optimization is of important clinical interest.
Noninvasive Diagnosis of Portal Hypertension and Detecting High Risk Gastroesophageal Varices in Chronic Liver Disease Patients with 4D Flow MRI
Authors: Ji Jiachen , Wei Hanyu , Li Yunduo , Zhang Mengmeng , Liu Changchun , Jin Bo , Qi Xiaolong , Shen Wen , Cai Jianming , Li Rui
Published: August 2023

Chronic liver disease patients commonly suffer from portal hypertension (PH), which could lead to gastroesophageal varices. Noninvasive methods to diagnose PH and to detect high risk varices are urgently needed. 4D Flow MRI is an advanced technique which could provide visualization and quantification of blood flow. In the study, we observed significant hemodynamic differences in portal vein between PH patients and controls. Similar differences were observed between patients with high risk and low risk varices. The performance of diagnosing PH/detecting high risk varices using the single hemodynamic parameter and the logistic regression model was acknowledged by the ROCs.
Image Quality of Deep-Learning Reconstructed Near-isotropic (3D) Enhanced MR enterography with LAVA HyperSense in Crohn disease patients
Authors: Son Jung Hee , Lee Yedaun , Lee Ho-Joon , Yi Jisook , Lee Joonsung , Bayram Ersin
Published: August 2023

In this study, we evaluate image quality of high resolution contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MR enterography with deep learning reconstruction. Use of DLRecon for near-isotropic CE-T1WI MRE provides improved image quality, and increased SNR.
Differentiation between rectal mucinous and common adenocarcinoma by amide proton transfer weighted and intravoxel incoherent motion imaging
Authors: Li Juan , jingliang cheng , Liangjie Lin
Published: August 2023

Rectal mucinous adenocarcinoma (MC) is a typical subtype of rectal adenocarcinomas, which has a poor prognosis and it is not sensitive to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy thus associated with significantly different individualized treatments as those for rectal common adenocarcinoma (AC). The amide proton transfer (APT) weighted and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging were investigated in this study for differential diagnosis between MC and AC. Results indicated that APT signal intensity and the D value by IVIM can be used in discriminating between MC and AC, slightly inferior to the performance of apparent diffusion coefficient by conventional diffusion weighted imaging.