bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learned Variable Flip-Angles to Improve Bi-Exponential 3D T2 and T1rho Mapping on the Knee Cartilage
Authors: Zibetti Marcelo , De Moura Hector , Monga Anmol , Keerthivasan Mahesh , Regatte Ravinder
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Bi-exponential T2 and T1rho mapping of the knee cartilage can potentially improve early detection of knee osteoarthritis. Goal(s): Scan time is usually long and SNR is low with standard methods. We plan to improve these aspects with a machine-learned pulse sequence. Approach: We use a machine learning approach, called optimized variable flip-angles (OVFA) on magnetization-prepared gradient-echo (MPGRE) sequences to improve bi-exponential T2 and T1rho mapping on the knee cartilage. Results: We observed an improvement of ~50% in SNR and a reduction of acquisition time by almost 2X when compared to standard MAPSS, typically used for quantitative T1rho and T2 mapping. Impact: This study shows that the learned pulse sequence, named MPGRE-OVFA, can obtain similar bi-exponential T2 and T1rho mapping values as MAPSS, but it is 2 times faster and has 50% more SNR, potentially improving early detection of osteoarthritis.
The influence of fat-suppression on T2 values and texture features in articular cartilage
Authors: Szomolanyi Pavol , Juras Vladimir , Toegel Stefan , Schreiner Markus , Janacova Veronika , Laurent Didier , Saxer Franziska , Heule Rahel , Bieri Oliver , Raithel Esther , Fuchssteiner Christoph , Weninger Wolfgang , Windhager Reinhard , Trattnig Siegfried
Published: November 2024

Motivation: If fat signal is not properly suppressed, it can lead to errors in the T2 calculations in human articular cartilage. Goal(s): This work aimed to quantify the influence of fat suppression on T2 values as well as texture features extracted from T2 maps. Approach: Ten donors were scanned in 3T MRI with DESS, T2-TESS and CPMG with and without fat suppression. Results: The results of this study showed the importance of using fat suppression while acquiring T2 maps. The influence of fat suppression was substantially greater for CPMG-T2-mapping compared to TESS-T2-mapping. Impact: If fat signal is not properly suppressed, it can lead to errors in the T2 calculations in human articular cartilage which can have a significant impact on longitudinal clinical trials.
Quantitative Ultrashort Echo Time Double Echo Steady State (qUTE-DESS) for T1, T2, and Diffusivity Mapping of Human Cartilage
Authors: Jang Hyungseok , Shin Soo Hyun , Moazamian Dina , Ma Yajun , Du Jiang , Chung Christine , Chang Eric
Published: November 2024

Motivation: A comprehensive validation of parameter mapping for T1, T2, and ADC based on qUTE-DESS has not been conducted yet. Goal(s): To investigate the feasibility and accuracy of qUTE-DESS for estimating T1, T2, and ADC parameters in human patellar cartilage and to compare these results with conventional MR techniques. Approach: The study used a qUTE-DESS sequence with variable flip angles and gradient moment adjustments. The cartilage sample was imaged using this approach and conventional imaging sequences, and the acquired data were processed using signal fitting. Results: Significant correlations exist between the parameters estimated by qUTE-DESS and those from conventional sequences. Impact: This study pioneers the comprehensive validation of T1, T2, and ADC parameter mapping using qUTE-DESS for knee joint imaging. Its findings offer a promising avenue to enhance the assessment of short T2 tissues and advance clinical applications in musculoskeletal diagnostics.
Graph Analysis of MRI-Derived Radiomics in Articular Knee Cartilage: Differentiating Healthy from Osteoarthritic Joints
Authors: Vilimek Dominik , Janacova Veronika , Kahankova Radana Vilimkova , Hanzlikova Pavla , Brablik Jindrich , Pomaki Michaela , Trattnig Siegfried , Martinek Radek , Juras Vladimir
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Our study examines the utility of graph-based analyses in revealing the interplay of radiomic features in knee osteoarthritis (OA), specifically to discover patterns that are hidden in traditional analyses. Goal(s): To differentiate radiomic profiles of healthy individuals from OA patients using graph-based methodologies and identify key features associated with OA progression. Approach: We analyze feature interconnections within knee joint compartments using MRI-based radiomics and cosine similarity graphs to evaluate features from 20 subjects. Results: Clustering coefficients and path lengths within the graphs revealed a distinct, pathology-driven convergence of radiomic features in OA patients compared to controls. Impact: The graph analysis revealed a convergence of radiomic features in OA, potentially contributing to a better understanding of the disease and therefore opening the path to novel analysis strategies.
Knee Cartilage T2 Associates with Foot and Ankle Posture
Authors: Williams Ashley , He Jade , Chu Constance
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Flat-footedness and pronated ankle posture have been observed in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Goal(s): This works seeks to determine if compositional changes to cartilage assessed from T2 relaxation times are associated with foot and ankle posture. Approach: Foot center of pressure, ankle eversion and tibial rotation were compared to tibiofemoral cartilage T2 in 24 participants with healthy knees. Results: Lower medial femoral cartilage T2 correlated to more medial foot center of pressure and greater ankle eversion (R=-0.71, p<0.0005; R=-0.54, p=0.006; respectively). Higher lateral tibial T2 correlated to more internal tibial rotation (R=-0.52, p=0.009). Impact: Correlation of foot and ankle posture to cartilage composition at the knee suggest that gait or shoe interventions to appropriately alter weight distribution at the foot and ankle could be utilized to benefit to knee cartilage health.
Accelerated 3D isotropic multi-echo UTE using CG-SENSE and Deep Learning Reconstruction for CT-like Imaging & Ultrashort T2* Mapping
Authors: Do Hung , Mitsuhiro Bekku , Berkeley Dawn , Tymkiw Brian , AlGhuraibawi Wissam , Kadbi Mo
Published: November 2024

Motivation: MRI provides superior soft-tissue contrast, however, cortical bone and ultrashort-T2* tissues are invisible in routine clinical MRI. Multi-echo Ultrashort TE (mecho-UTE) may allow visualization and quantification of bone and ultrashort-T2* tissues, however, its acquisition time is often long. Goal(s): We used CG-SENSE and Deep Learning Reconstruction (CG-SENSE+DLR) to accelerate mecho-UTE, making it clinically feasible. Approach: 5-min, 3-min, and 2-min mecho-UTE scans were prospectively acquired and reconstructed with Gridding and CG-SENSE+DLR. Resolution, sharpness, and T2* were measured and compared. Results: CG-SENSE+DLR allows 2- and 3-min mecho-UTE with improved resolution and sharpness compared to 5-min mecho-UTE with Gridding reconstruction. Impact: Routine MRI and mecho-UTE enable comprehensive MSK imaging, providing soft-tissue contrast and visualization-and-quantification of bone and ultrashort-T2* tissues. CG-SENSE+DLR allows accelerated 2- and 3-minunte mecho-UTE, which would enable widespread clinical utilization to demonstrate the value of mecho-UTE compared to CT.
Deep Learning Accelerated 3D SPACE DIXON for Improved Fat Suppression in Musculoskeletal MRI
Authors: Vosshenrich Jan , Keerthivasan Mahesh , Nickel Marcel Dominik , Koerzdorfer Gregor , Bruno Mary , Fritz Jan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The application of 3D SPACE-DIXON techniques for musculoskeletal MRI has advantages in terms of fat suppression capacities, but drawbacks with regard to substantially longer acquisition times compared with SPAIR fat suppressed 3D SPACE. Goal(s): To reduce the acquisition time of 3D SPACE-DIXON to that of 3D SPACE-SPAIR while maintaining superior fat suppression capabilities. Approach: Six-fold CAIPIRINHA acceleration was combined with a deep learning-based image reconstruction algorithm to decrease the acquisition time and maintain image quality. Results: Image quality parameters in volunteer scans were rated equivalent to the conventional 3D SPACE-DIXON sequence and superior to the 3D SPACE-SPAIR sequence. Impact: We present a 3D SPACE-DIXON technique with improved fat suppression performance and similar acquisition time compared with 3D SPACE-SPAIR for musculoskeletal 3D MRI. Preliminary in vivo results indicate the clinical utility of this technique for proton density-weighted 3D MRI.
Multi-vendor Multi-site accelerated high-resolution T1ρ mapping with retrospective and prospective compressed sensing reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Kim Jeehun , Liu Ruiying , Latery Richard , Winalski Carl , Yang Mingrui , Liu Jing , Peng Qi , Hardy Peter , Link Thomas , Ying Leslie , Li Xiaojuan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: High-resolution T1ρ mapping is desired to improve the early diagnosis of diseases such as osteoarthritis; however, it suffers from long acquisition times. Goal(s): To accelerate high-resolution T1ρ mapping using compressed-sensing reconstruction in a multi-site multi-vendor setting. Approach: We standardized the T1ρ imaging protocol between three sites using three MR platforms (GE/Philips/Siemens). Accelerated high-resolution T1ρ mapping with accelerator factors (AF) ranging 8-12 were performed using both retrospective and prospective downsamplings with compressed-sensing reconstruction. Results: The coefficients-of-variation between reference and accelerated maps were <5% for all sites. Reliable high-resolution T1ρ mapping of the whole knee can be acquired within 7 mins. Impact: Standardization of the acquisition and reconstruction of accelerated high-resolution T1ρ mapping across sites and MR platforms will greatly facilitate its future use in clinical trials and clinical practice, significantly improving diagnosis and evaluation of responses to interventions/treatments for OA.
Prediction of Knee Osteoarthritis using MRI-based Radiomic Features of the Subchondral Bone and Infrapatellar Fat Pad
Authors: Campos Inês , van der Heijden Rianne , Oei Edwin , Klein Stefan , Cardoso Jaime , Hirvasniemi Jukka
Published: November 2024

Motivation: While radiomics has been applied to various MRI data to predict knee osteoarthritis (KOA) incidence, there is a lack of knowledge on the combination of radiomics features from different knee structures. Goal(s): To assess the ability of MRI-based radiomic features extracted from automatically segmented femur, tibia, patella, and infrapatellar fat pad to predict KOA incidence. Approach: 710 DESS MRIs were segmented using deep learning, trained with 30 manually delineated images. KOA incidence was predicted using Elastic Net, based on radiomic features from the four knee structures. Results: The model combining features from the four knee structures resulted in a ROC AUC of 0.65. Impact: While further research should be conducted to improve the accuracy of the developed radiomics pipeline in order to improve its applicability in clinical practice, radiomic features gathered from different knee structures are promising imaging biomarkers for early KOA prediction.
Quantitative Assessment of Meniscal Degeneration Using Three-dimensional Ultrashort Echo Time Adiabatic T1ρ (3D UTE-AdiabT1ρ) Imaging
Authors: Wu Mei , Ma Yajun , Liu Xiaotong , Zhang Xiaodong , Wang Yi , Jerban Saeed , Covey Dana , Bukata Susan , Chang Eric , Du Jiang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The three-dimensional ultrashort echo time adiabatic T1ρ (3D UTE-AdiabT1ρ) sequence can provide magic angle-insensitive evaluation of proteoglycan depletion in both short- and long-T2 tissues in the knee joint. Goal(s): Our goal was to assess its clinical performance. Approach: We applied this sequence to healthy volunteers and patients with different degrees of osteoarthritis. Results: The sequence could be used for quantitative evaluation of meniscus degeneration. The UTE-AdiabT1ρ values in different subregions showed a significant positive relationship with WORMS, Stoller grades and KL groups. The 3D UTE-AdiabT1ρ biomarker can diagnose meniscal degeneration at an early stage. Impact: The 3D UTE-AdiabT1ρ sequence allows quantitative imaging of the menisci. The UTE-AdiabT1ρ biomarker can diagnose meniscal degeneration at an early stage. Early detection of compositional changes in the menisci is of critical importance in avoiding or slowing down OA progression.
FRACTURE compared to CT for detecting structural lesions of the sacroiliac joint in axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: xu lei , zhao xiance , qi liang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The detection of structural damage of the sacroiliac joint is essential for diagnosing axial spondyloarthritis. Goal(s): To assess the diagnostic performance of FRACTURE sequence in detecting structure lesions compared to CT. Approach: A retrospective study was conducted on 83 patients with definite axial SpA who underwent MRI and CT scans of the sacroiliac joint between 2021 and 2022. An overall impression of sacroiliitis grade was also provided according to the scoring system of the modified New York criteria. Results: When compared to CT as the standard, FRACTURE demonstrated high agreement with AUC values of 0.908, 0.943, 0.918 and 0.944 for sacroiliitis grade. Impact: FRACTURE can evaluate structural lesions and demonstrate good diagnostic performance in patients with SpA.
A fully automated implant mode MRI scan workflow for asymptomatic patients.
Authors: Manickam Kavitha , Bhushan Chitresh , Gui Dawei , Fung Maggie , Kaushik Shiv , Fiveland Eric , Shanbhag Dattesh , Potter Hollis
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Patients are often unaware of the presence and location of metal implants, which may be confirmed only after localizer scan, thus potentially disrupting workflow. Goal(s): To detect the presence of metal implant within the first few seconds of prescan and further characterize the location and shape of the metal from the calibration. Approach: Prescan data of phantom with metal screws and human volunteer with metallic implants were used. Results: The skewness of the center frequency signal is from 1.37 to 4.47 for implants, while for normal subjects, the signal is very symmetric and the calculated skewness is <0.3. Impact: Automated MR scanning workflow for the patients with implants to improve efficiency of the MR technologists.
MULTI-parametric MR imaging of the sacroiliac joints in patients with axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Zhu Qiao , Ren Cui , Yang Yuxin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cartilage abnormalities of the sacroiliac joints (SIJs) in spondyloarthritis(SpA) manifest as degeneration, fragmentation and erosions, fibrosis, and ossification. Goal(s): To test whether MULTIPLEX(MTP) sequence of the sacroiliac joints (SIJs) might help identifying patients with SpA. Approach: This study included 20 patients with axial SpA and 20 controls who prospectively underwent SIJs MRI using an oblique coronal MTP sequence. Results: The PD and T2* values of cartilage in patients with SpA were significantly higher than those of healthy volunteers, p<0.05. There was no statistical difference between SpA and healthy group in T1 values of SIJ cartilage, P>0.05. Impact: The MTP sequence represents a significant advancement in the imaging of SpA. By providing quantitative PD and T2* values of the SIJ cartilage, it offers a novel tool for the early diagnosis of SpA.
Measuring blood flow in stroke using Quantitative Transport Mapping Network (QTMnet)
Authors: Weppner Benjamin , Zhang Qihao , Romano Dominick , Hu Renjiu , Spincemaille Pascal , Zhang Shun , Wang Yi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To assess the ability of quantitative transport mapping (QTM) to estimate blood flow in stroke from DSC MRI through a deep learning model. Goal(s): To use an automated deep learning based method to measure blood flow in stroke using DSC MRI. Approach: A deep learning network (QTMnet) is trained on synthetic MR data generated using realistic vascular models to learn the mapping between DSC MR data and underlying tissue blood flow. Results: QTMnet demonstrates decreased perfusion in ischemic lesion compared to contralateral healthy tissue (p=0.0006), similar to results using traditional modeling. QTMnet performed well without needing to select an appropriate AIF or regularization. Impact: QTMnet may identify hypoperfused tissue following stroke in an automated manner. Accurate blood flow estimation may assist in determining whether reperfusion therapy is beneficial.
Identification of culprit plaques in stroke patients using radiomics based on three-dimensional high-resolution vascular wall imaging
Authors: Zhang Guiling , Zhu Wenzhen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Identifying the culprit plaque among the plaques in stroke patients is important. Previous studies were based on 2D sequences, 3D HRMR-VWI is a novel imaging examination to evaluate vessel wall. Goal(s): To establish a high performance model to identify the culprit plaques in stroke patients. Approach: We used traditional method and five different radiomics methods to identify the culprit plaques in stroke patients based on 3D HRMR-VWI. Results: In traditional information, intraplaque hemorrhage is an independent predictor for culprit plaques, the efficacy of radiomics is much higher than traditional model, the extreme gradient boosting method showed the best performance in radiomics models. Impact: Our study established an accurate method to identify the culprit plaques in stroke patients, to help clinicians make a more precise treatment plan, it will improve the prognosis and prevent the recurrence in stroke patients.
A Multi-task Deep learning Model for Simultaneous Segmentations of Penumbra and Infarct in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wu Xiaoling , Zhang Xiao , Wang Fei , Sun Mengzhou , Cai Pinjia , Li Zihan , Zhang Shuixing , Liang Xiaoyun
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Arterial spin labeling (ASL) has shown comparable results with dynamic susceptibility contrast magnetic resonance imaging in evaluating hypoperfused lesions in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, the precise delineation of penumbra in ASL is still challenging. Goal(s): To develop a deep learning (DL) model based on ASL to identify eligible candidates for endovascular treatment in AIS patients. Approach: A multi-task DL model was proposed for simultaneous segmentations of penumbra and infarct by combining cerebral blood flow and DWI images. Results: The multi-task segmentation performed well, which is comparable to the results achieved by radiologists. Impact: The proposed approach performed well for the segmentation of penumbra and infarct, which could provide a promising approach for assisting decision-making for endovascular treatment in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Restore Sodium & Energetic Homeostasis in Ischemic Stroke as Quantified by Longitudinal MRI/S at 21.1 T
Authors: Bhagu Jamini , Grant Samuel
Published: November 2024

Motivation: A leading cause of death and disability, stroke is treated foremost by restoring blood flow, but follow-up therapies that focus on ischemic tissue recovery are critical as is the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy. Goal(s): This work administers extracellular vesicles (EV) derived from human mesenchymal cells (hMSC) to salvage tissue while monitoring recovery and metabolic changes longitudinally using ultra-high field MRI/S. Approach: T2-W MRI,23Na-CSI, and 1H-MRS were used to quantify lesion reduction, sodium homeostasis and energetic remodeling. Results: Upon EV treatment, sodium (and to a lesser extent proton) lesions were reduced by day 3, while lactate, creatine and NAA were stabilized compared to control. Impact: Combined sodium MRI and proton MRS provide a more sensitive and early quantitative metric to evaluate the efficacy of stem cell-derived therapy following ischemia and longitudinal metabolic, ionic and functional recovery. Such methods can evaluate other treatments against different pathologies.
Acute Iron and oxygen metabolism in cerebral tissue with DWI reversal post-reperfusion in ischemic stroke
Authors: Kataike Victoria Mercy , Desmond Patricia M , Steward Christopher , Campbell Bruce CV , Ng Felix , Venkatraman Vijay
Published: November 2024

Motivation: In patients with ischemic stroke, ischemic tissue reversal after reperfusion therapy has been studied structurally, but metabolic changes have not been widely researched. Goal(s): Assess the ability of a recently developed algorithm to quantify oxygen extraction fraction in ischemic tissue that reverses and what does not reverse. Approach: Using multi-echo gradient images, oxygen extraction fraction and magnetic susceptibility maps were generated for 26 ischemic stroke patients. Values were extracted respectively at 24 to 72 hours in the ischemic tissue that reversed and tissue that did not. Results: Significant differences in oxygen extraction were observed in tissue that reversed versus tissue that did not. Impact: Differentiating oxygen extraction fraction values in ischemic tissue at an early stage of ischemic stroke can potentially inform neuroprotection strategies for clinicians to reduce post-reperfusion secondary injury.
Evaluation of iron deposition in unilateral middle cerebral artery stenosis patients using automatic brain regional susceptibility analysis
Authors: Zhang Ranying , Lv Peng , Wu Pu-Yeh , Lin Jiang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Iron deposition is associated with brain injury. Exploring alterations of iron deposition in cerebral regions caused by cerebral artery stenosis may help to predict degree of brain injury. Goal(s): This study aimed to quantify iron alterations in both cortex and deep GM nuclei in patients with long-term unilateral MCA severe stenosis. Approach: Using structural imaging and QSM, we employed automatic brain regional susceptibility analysis. Results: We found that patients had higher susceptibility in ipsilateral CN, PU, GP, and transverse temporal gyrus than contralateral side, and patient group had higher susceptibility in PU, GP, TH, middle frontal gyrus, and transvers temporal gyrus than HCs. Impact: By brain regional susceptibility analysis, this study demonstrated abnormal iron accumulation in deep GM nuclei, middle frontal gyrus, and transvers temporal gyrus after chronic MCA severe stenosis. Therefore, iron deposition may be a potential biomarker for evaluating long-term cerebral ischemia.
fMRI & DTI to Study Neural Correlates in Controlled Brain Stimulation for Post Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Mehndiratta Amit , Singh Neha , Saini Megha , Nath Debasish , Kumar Nand , Kumaran Senthil , Srivastava MV Padma
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To study the impact of closed-loop brain stimulation in neuroplasticity in stroke rehabilitation. Goal(s): In this study we investigate with fMRI and diffusion tensor MR imaging the neural correlates with closed loop brain stimulation in stroke. Approach: fMRI and DTI for six subjects was taken in a pilot case-control study. Results: fMRI and DTI both showed higher cortical activity and increase in FA values for ipsilesional CST in cohort of patients with TMS-robotic intervention than the control group. Impact: A brain stimulation system integrated with an exoskeleton, providing a real-time bidirectional feedback mechanism for patients, has been shown to actively involve patients in their rehabilitation journey.
Neural Pathways of Applied Reflexology using Real-Time Task-Based and Resting-State fMRI in Healthy Controls and Patients with Stroke
Authors: Posse Stefan , Kunz Kevin , Kunz Barbara , Van de Winckel Ann , Wolf Michael , Yacoub Essa
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To characterize the biological substrates and mechanisms of reflexology. Goal(s): (1) To characterize the somatotopic relationship between cortical activity and sensory stimulation of reflex areas. (2) To assess possible therapeutic effects of reflexology. Approach: Real-time task-based and resting-state fMRI in 4 controls and 4 adults with stroke using multi-band multi-echo EPI. Results: Deactivation of a bilateral network in superior-temporal gyrus, postcentral gyrus and insular cortex (depending on reflex area) in healthy controls and unilateral deactivation, which differed between left and right foot, in patients with stroke. Sensorimotor function in the hemiplegic hand improved (3 patients) and two-point discrimination increased (2 patients) after reflexology. Impact: This preliminary real-time fMRI study demonstrates the potential to change the reflexologist’s technique application to focus on particular reflex areas for optimizing treatment results and to establish a neurobiological basis for predicting treatment outcomes in patients with neurological disorders.
High-resolution 3D Multislab DWI for the Diagnosis of Acute Stroke
Authors: Zhang Jieying , Xiao Yi , Lyu Wenbo , Qi Huawen , Xu Yilan , Zhang Yajing , Zheng Zhuozhao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Conventional low-resolution 2D DWI has limited diagnosis accuracy in stroke patients. Goal(s): Our goal was to apply high-resolution 3D DWI in stroke patients and assess its diagnostic capabilities compared to low-resolution 2D DWI. Approach: We employed simultaneous multislab imaging for 3D diffusion signal sampling, utilizing opposite phase encoding polarity for distortion correction and CPEN for boundary artifact correction. We conducted examinations on 15 acute stroke patients. Results: The utilization of high-resolution 3D DWI with isotropic resolution significantly enhances image quality in terms of clarity, distortion levels, and clinical value, surpassing traditional 2D DWI. Impact: High-resolution isotropic 3D DWI, using simultaneous multislab acquisitions, may help in the identification of small brain lesions that may be challenging to detect using low-resolution 2D DWI.
Neurovascular characterization of early brain injury in subarachnoid hemorrhage with Multi-modality MRI (1H and 23Na)
Authors: Jiang Yuanyuan , Imai Takahiko , Lai James , Zhou Xiaoqing , Hike David , Mohammed Sohail , Ayata Cenk , Chung David , Yu Xin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: This work is to identify d 23Na (sodium) as a biomarker for early brain injuries (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Goal(s): This research utilizes a novel head-implanted coil to measure 1H and 23Na whole-brain MRI for characterization of EBI. Approach: We achieved acquisition of 1H for anatomical templates and 23Na MRI images at an impressive spatial resolution of 300x300x500 µm. Results: We surprisingly observed that the 23Na signal precedes the appearance of conventional 1H diffusion-weighted signal after SAH-related brain injury. Also, a concentration gradient distribution of 23Na mapping within the EBI regions demonstrated a finer granularity not typically depicted by conventional 1H MRI. Impact: This work revealed the distinct 23Na dynamics for EBI detection and highlighted the critical usage of a multi-modal platform to specify the EBI after SAH.
Evaluating Inflammation in Middle Cerebral Arterial Plaques with CAIPIRINHA－Dixon－TWIST DCE-MRI
Authors: Niu junxia , Ran yuncai , Chen rui , Zhang yong , Yang qi , Zhang chen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Plaque inflammation is the main cause of plaque instability; thus, a convenient and noninvasive method of evaluating intracranial plaque inflammation is needed. Goal(s): Noninvasive CDT DCE-MRI enables evaluating the inflammation of MCA culprit plaques in patients with IS. Approach: We compared the CDT DCE-MRI parameters of MCA culprit plaques between patients with acute and non-acute ischemic stroke (IS) and assessed the correlations between these parameters and stroke time. Results: Ktrans of the CDT DCE-MRI was higher in patients with acute IS than in patients with non-acute IS. Ktrans was significantly negatively correlated with stroke time. Impact: Ktrans allows non-invasively distinguishing responses to MCA plaque inflammation between patients with acute and non-acute IS. CDT DCE-MRI may be a promising noninvasive tool for accurately assessing large intracranial arterial plaque inflammation.
Reproducibility of Whole-Brain Cerebral Blood Flow measurements using phase contrast and arterial spin labeling MRI
Authors: Fettahoglu Ates , Khalighi Mehdi , Tong Elizabeth , Moseley Michael , Zaharchuk Greg , Zhao Moss
Published: November 2024

Motivation: We investigated the reproducibility of cerebral blood flow (CBF) measurement techniques with phase contrast (PC) and arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI given their importance in diagnosing cerebrovascular diseases. Goal(s): Demonstrate the reproducibility of phase contrast and arterial spin labeling MRI techniques for measuring CBF. Approach: We used comparative analysis of CBF measurements using phase contrast and arterial spin labeling pre- and post- diamox vasodilation test, measured twice by a week apart. Results: Strong interclass correlation across modalities and sessions, indicating strong reproducibility for both techniques. Impact: We conclude that PC- and ASL- MRI measurements are in good agreement and have strong inter-session reproducibility in measuring CBF before and after vasodilation.
Predicting the prognosis of Single Subcortical Infarction using lenticulostriate artery features and subacute perfusion in its region
Authors: Hu Hangjia , Sun Jiayu , Jiang Shuai
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Due to the limitations of standard imaging tools, few studies have directly reserched infarct lesion or its corresponding arteries to predict prognosis. Now, the morphology of lenticulostriate artery can be seen via VWI1, and perfusion of infarct lesion can be determined via PWI2Goal(s): To evaluate the effect of LSA features and quantitative perfusion on SSI prognosisApproach: The patients were categorized into groups with poor and good prognoses based on the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score. Each group's LSA morphological parameters and perfusion status were compared. Results: Poorer results are correlated with shorter LSA and lower rCBFImpact: The prognosis of the SSI can be assessed by analyzing the morphology of the LSA and the subacute perfusion. Our findings provide evidence in support of early therapy intervention.
Increased T2 value suggest the NA-CST degeneration following stroke proved by multiple overlapping-echo detachment qMRI
Authors: Bao Jianfeng , Wang Xiao , Ye Ming , Yang Qinqin , Cai Congbo , Cai Shuhui , Tulupov Andrey , Dong Yanbo , Lin Liangjie , Zhang Yong , Chen Zhong , Cheng Jingliang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Stroke patients commonly face challenges during clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations due to loss of consciousness and involuntary movements. This study aims to address these challenges using a self-developed ultra-fast, multiple overlapping-echo detachment (MOLED) quantitative magnetic resonance technology. Goal(s): Through this technology, we seek to quantitatively detect potential damage to the motor-related normal-appearing corticospinal tract (NA-CST) following stroke. Approach: Total 79 patients underwent routine scan and MOLED. A deep learning network was utilized for quantitative image reconstruction. Results: MOLED T2 imaging showed high accuracy and repeatability, was unaffected by head motion, correlated with motor dysfunction severity, and predicted motor impairment post-stroke. Impact: The MOLED technique quickly and accurately quantifies imaging in stroke patients with involuntary movements and helps monitor post-stroke motor impairment progression.
Characterizing Cerebral Neurometabolic Changes in Diaschisis from Stroke using Fast 3D High-Resolution MRSI
Authors: Meng Ziyu , Wang Tianyao , Zhou Hong , Xu Chang , Bo Bin , Zhao Yibo , Li Yudu , Jin Wen , Liang Zhi-Pei , Li Yao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Understanding metabolic changes in diaschisis is essential for stroke rehabilitation. Goal(s): Our goal was to investigate the neurometabolite alterations in the disconnected white matter (WM) tracts and the downstream cortical gray matter (GM) regions, and their associations in early stroke outcome. Approach: 3D 1H-MRSI scanning using SPICE technology (scan time: 8 minutes, resolution: 2×3×3 mm3, FOV: 240×240×72 mm3) was performed on 105 acute ischemic stroke patients.Results: Our findings reveal a trend for decreased cortical GM NAA as the WM NAA in the diaschitic hemisphere decreases, both associated with early stroke outcome. Impact: Using 3D high-resolution 1H-MRSI, we found a potential involvement of neuronal mitochondria metabolism in the metabolic changes observed in diaschisis from stroke. It may offer valuable prognostic biomarkers in stroke patients management.
Feasibility of Multiplexed Sensitivity-Encoding diffusion tensor imaging (MUSE-DTI) in cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Authors: Shao Haoyue , Tang Xiangyu , Liu Weiyin , Liu Qiufeng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: MUSE-DTI may elevate spatial resolution and image quality in cervical spine. Goal(s): This study aimed to investigate the clinical diagnosis value of MUSE-DTI in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). Approach: Independent T-test or Mann-Whitney t test and Spearman correlation analysis was used to investigate the differences of FA and ADC values between each two different stages and the correlation to JOA scores. Results: All MUSE-DTI derived values at MCL were correlated with the clinical JOA scores. The axial diffusivity (AD) values were most sensitive to the secondary damage of distal spinal cord. Impact: This study presented the ability of MUSE-DTI in better display cervical spinal cord and spinal cord injury with more reliable measurements for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of CSM patients.
4D PC-MRI for CSF dynamics of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine: a feasibility study
Authors: Rua Catarina , Lambrechts Mari , Montoya Gustavo , Kadamus Christopher , Dobson Howard , Tanner Mark , Becerra Lino
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Understanding the fluid mechanics of the cerebrospinal (CSF) flow is important for creating more accurate models of flow dynamics in intrathecal drug delivery systems.Goal(s): We assess the feasibility of measuring with high-temporal resolution 3-directional CSF flow across all sections of the spine in healthy volunteers.Approach: We report peak-to-peak velocity, peak velocity, flow rate, total displacement, and display velocity vector fields for the CSF across the three spinal sections. Results: 3-directional CSF flow of the full spine can be measured with MRI. Our observations revealed varying CSF velocity profiles across three sections of the spine, indicating distinct pressure mechanisms along its length.Impact: Recent research have focused on the development of novel therapeutic strategies for CNS drug delivery though intrathecal space modelling. To achieve this and establish better boundary conditions, more precise measurements of spinal CSF flow through MRI are required.
Correction of breathing-induced dynamic field changes in the cervical cord using FID navigators at 3T
Authors: Lebret Anna , Utkur Mustafa , Wallace Tess , Kober Tobias , Afacan Onur , Seif Maryam
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To correct breathing-induced field fluctuations and ensuing artifacts on T2*-weighted MRI of the cervical cord to improve T2* mapping. Goal(s): To characterize B0 field changes caused by respiration within the cervical cord and to retrospectively compensate for those spatiotemporal fluctuations using a FID navigator-based correction technique. Approach: B0 field coefficients up to second order were measured using FID navigators and a multi-channel low-resolution reference image. Retrospective correction was performed using measured field coefficients during an iterative image reconstruction. Results: The FIDnav framework characterized the B0 field changes and improved the quality of T2*-weighted MRI and T2* maps by correcting respiratory-induced artifacts. Impact: Improved quality of T2*-weighted images, obtained after correction of respiration-induced field changes, holds promise for improving MRI techniques relying on T2* contrast (BOLD fMRI, QSM) and clinical applications in neurological diseases of the cervical cord.
Repeatability and Reproducibility of Ultra High-Field Cervical Spinal Cord Quantitative MRI: A Dual-Center Study at 7T
Authors: Seif Maryam , Mchinda Samira , Bennasser Mohammed , Lebret Anna , Troalen Thomas , Freund Patrick , Vannesjo Johanna , Callot Virginie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Conducting multi-center 7T quantitative MRI studies on the spinal cord requires acquisition protocols with high reliability. Goal(s): To provide a consensus cervical cord qMRI protocol with high reliability by means of determining its repeatability and reproducibility across a dual center test-retest study. Approach: Six healthy controls underwent a multiparametric protocol back-to-back 3 times with a break, which include T1-MP2RAGE and T2*-weighted on two 7T scanners. Results: T1 values and spinal cord area (on C1-C5 level) show high repeatability (CoV<2%; Cov <1.2% respectively and high reproducibility (Cov<2.6%; <9.9% respectively) within and between subjects. Impact: This work represents an important step towards the adoption of UHF MRI protocol for various neurological pathologies affecting the spinal cord. It empowers neurologists and scientists investigating neurodegenerative diseases with high reliability and robustness.
Spinal cord atrophy in aging and across different neurological diseases
Authors: Zhu Xiaoqin , Duan Yunyun , Zhuo Zhizheng , Guo Min , Zhang Xianchang , Liu Yaou
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Determining the clinical significance of spinal cord changes across various neurological diseases. Goal(s): Determining the clinical significance of spinal cord changes across various neurological diseases. Approach: We compared the spinal cord changes across various neurological diseases, followed by analyzing the correlation of spinal cord atrophy with regional brain atrophy and corresponding clinical variables. Results: The spinal cord atrophy happens with aging and is aggravated in neurological diseases, which partly reflects cognitive conditions and physical disability. Impact: Identifying disease-specific patterns of spinal cord atrophy somehow helps in differential diagnosis and MUCCA could be serve as a MRI marker for cognitive impairment and/or physical disability.
Distinct progression patterns of white matter microstructure in Parkinson’s disease associated with REM sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Tan Sijia , Wen Jiaqi , Wu Chenqing , Duanmu Xiaojie , Zhou Cheng , Zheng Qianshi , Qin Jianmei , Yuan Weijin , Wu Haoting , Guo Tao , Chen Jingwen , Wu Jingjing , Zhang Yong , Zhang Minming , Guan Xiaojun , Xu Xiaojun
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) significantly impacts clinical outcomes in Parkinson's disease (PD). Goal(s): Our goal was to investigates the neurophysiological mechanisms related to motor and cognitive decline longitudinally in PD with RBD (PD-RBD). Approach: We used diffusion tensor imaging and clinical assessments on 83 PD patients over 2 years, two groups were formed: PD-RBD and PD without RBD (PD-nonRBD). Results: PD-RBD experienced widespread decline in white matter microstructure which are associated with motor symptoms aggravation, while PD-nonRBD patients showed limited changes. Impact: The presence of RBD suggests more extensive white matter degeneration in PD, particularly affecting motor symptoms.
Structural and Functional Deterioration along the Visual Pathways in Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Yu Kevin , Bang Ji Won , Wollstein Gadi , Schuman Joel , Chan Kevin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative, multi-faceted disease resulting in irreversible blindness. Previous studies demonstrated both ocular and cerebral involvement, but brain findings remained mixed from small studies. Goal(s): To elucidate structural and functional brain changes associated with glaucoma using big data. Approach: We compared UK Biobank's extensive multi-parametric brain MRI data, ophthalmic parameters, and physiometabolic data between 1,229 glaucoma subjects and 12,290 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects. Results: In addition to clinical ophthalmic and physiometabolic differences, smaller brain volumes and lower fractional anisotropy were found along the posterior visual pathway of glaucoma patients, with weakened functional brain activation upon Hariri faces/shapes task. Impact: Changes in both the structure and function of the posterior visual brain pathways point to trans-synaptic degeneration in glaucoma. Additionally, glaucoma may impair both the lower-level visual processing areas and the structural and functional aspects of higher-level visual processing regions.
Identifying Brain Calcifications in Down Syndrome Patients Using ZTE-Derived Pseudo-CT Imaging
Authors: Catargiu Teodora , Saini Fedal , Idris Mina , Strydom André , Williams Steven , Wood Tobias
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Patients with Down Syndrome may undergo nearly ten times as many medical imaging procedures in their childhood alone compared to the general population, exposing this already high-risk group to elevated levels of radiation. Goal(s): We want to explore the potential of Zero Echo-Time (ZTE) MRI as a radiation-free alternative to CT scans for imaging cortical bone and calcifications in Down's Syndrome patients. Approach: We employed a published method for tissue segmentation, assigning Standard Hounsfield Units for air and soft tissue, while a continuous linear mapping technique was used for bone. Results: The images obtained resemble true CT images and calcifications are also visible. Impact: ZTE to pseudo-CT image conversion offers a one-stop-shop solution for imaging patients without ionising radiation. The calcifications found and their potential clinical implications in ageing, or as markers for other conditions, warrant further investigation.
Voxel-based morphometry for evaluating nigrostriatal damage in unilateral 6-OHDA-induced Parkinson’s rat model
Authors: Kumari Sadhana , Kumaran S Senthil , Rana Bharti , Chaudhary Shefali , Jain Suman
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta resulting in classical motor and nonmotor symptoms. Goal(s): Our goal was to characterise the gray matter atrophy in 6-OHDA PD model as compared to sham control. Approach: Structural MRI (3D T1W images) combined with behavioural techniques was used. Results: Voxel based morphometry (VBM) revealed reductions of gray matter volume in Fimbria (Ipsi), hippocampal formation (Ipsi) and accumbens nucleus (contra) in 3rd week PD and cerebellum (Ipsi and contra both) in 7th week PD as compared to sham. Impact: Identification of gray matter atrophy longitudinally helps in understanding the progression of structural alterations in response to dopaminergic cell loss.
Assessment of cerebral microbleeds using improved 7T SWI in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ashouri Laya , Yildiz Sema , Binder Sarah , Delman Bradley , Hedden Trey , Balchandani Priti , Alipour Akbar
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are small hemosiderin-laden macrophage clusters resulting from blood leakage about damaged cerebral vessels, often linked to β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition. Goal(s): To improve the visualization of CMBs that might be missed or undetectable with lower field strengths in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD patients. Approach: A new SWI technique named CLEAR-SWI was reported to eliminate the artifacts common in standard, single-echo SWI, reduce signal dropouts, and improve image homogeneity and contrast-to-noise. Results: We found a significant correlation between the number of lobar CMBs and the Aβ PET SUVR levels in AD/MCI patients. Impact: Improved visualization of CMBs with CLEAR SWI sequences at 7T may contribute to more accurate identification of MCI and AD patients, who typically present a lobar distribution of CMBs.
Structural connectivity networks of putamen subregions in health and in early Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ali Tonima , Lv Jinglei , D'Souza Arkiev , O'Callaghan Claire , Dalton Marshall , Kassem Mustafa , Calamante Fernando
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Putamen, a subcortical grey matter (SGM) structure and its associated brain connectivity networks are often implicated in the early stages of Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Goal(s): With more detailed structural connectivity analysis using SGM parcellation, we characterise the structural connectivity of putamen subregions in healthy brains, and their alterations in early PD. Approach: Using data from Parkinson’s Progressive Markers Initiative, structural connectivity analysis, and by incorporating SGM parcellation, we have revealed the connectivity networks specific to four putamen subregions. Results: Heterogeneous connectivity alteration was identified in PD subjects, demonstrating weakening of intra-SGM connectivity within hemisphere and strengthening of it across hemispheres. Impact: We identified structural connectivity networks specific to four putamen subregions in healthy brain and in early Parkinson’s Disease. Our method allows focused connectivity analysis while our findings provide new insight into the intra- and inter-hemispheric connectivity alterations with disease progression.
The association between white matter hyperintensity and acute cerebral infarction using MTP synthetic sequence
Authors: Peipei Chang , Yanwei Miao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The application of MTP synthetic sequence can shorten the examination time of patients and obtain routine and quantitative MRI images, widely used in clinical. Goal(s): This study aims to distinguish acute ischemic stroke and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) as well as normal tissue using MTP synthetic sequence. Approach: We compared acute ischemic stroke, WMH and normal gray-white matter ADC and MTP values, investigated the clinical value of MTP in distinguishing these two kinds of diseases. Results: The signal of acute cerebral infarction was obviously different from WMH and normal cerebral tissue. Impact: MTP imaging offers the potential to distinct acute ischemic stroke from WMH and normal brain regions in just a few minutes.
Functional characteristics of cerebral infarction lesion and its penumbra
Authors: Pei Chenyang , Yin Jianzhong , Qin Haodong , Liu Jun , Liang Qizhou , Li Xiangying
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Functional changes in ischemic penumbra after cerebral infarction may indicate different degrees of hypoperfusion and different prognosis. Goal(s): To explore the functional characteristics of infarction and its penumbra region using rs-fMRI. Approach: The functional differences between infarct, penumbra and contralateral normal tissue were evaluated by Paired sample t test and Wilcoxon paired sign-rank test. Spearman correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between the degree of hypoperfusion of the penumbra and the functional impairment. Results: Substantial differences in functional characteristics were observed between infarction and normal tissue. The degree of ischemic penumbra was considerably correlated with its functional characteristics. Impact: The elucidation of penumbral functional characteristics may influence its reversibility potential. Such knowledge can be pivotal in guiding clinical decision-making related to thrombolytic and neuroprotective treatments, optimizing patient outcomes.