bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the preprocessing impact on the Deep Learning automatic segmentation of Choroid Plexus in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Visani Valentina , Pizzini Francesca , Colombi Annalisa , Natale Valerio , Tamanti Agnese , Bertoldo Alessandra , Marjin Corina , Ricciardi Giuseppe , Calabrese Massimiliano , Castellaro Marco
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The Choroid Plexus (ChP) is a vascular structure involved in brain regulatory functions. The relation between ChP Volume and brain disorders raises the interest on this structure and the need for an accurate segmentation, questioning whether to introduce a preprocessing step. Goal(s): This work studies the preprocessing impact on the ChP segmentation with Deep Neural Networks (DNN) ensemble. Approach: Three different preprocessing steps (brain extraction, N4 intensity correction, combination of both) were applied to 128 T1-w MRI images before DNN training. These approaches performances were compared to that without preprocessing. Results: The preprocessing step does not improve DNN performance for the ChP segmentation. Impact: The preprocessing steps of brain extraction and N4 intensity normalization correction on T1-w MRI images do not have an impact on Deep Neural Networks performance during the automatic segmentation of Choroid Plexus on Multiple Sclerosis patients.
Non-invasive Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation Nidus Volume Measurement: Silent MRA Compared with TOF-MRA
Authors: Dong Mengqi , Wu Chunxue , Xiang Sishi , Hong Tao , Yu Jiaxing , Yang Kun , Yang Wanxin , Li Xiangyu , Lu Jie , Zhang Hongqi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Quantitative nidus volume measurement of cerebral arteriovenous malformation（CAVM）is of great important for the CAVM treatment management. Goal(s): This study aims to investigate non-invasive nidus volume measurement of CAVM with silent MRA and explore the difference between silent MRA and TOF-MRA. Approach: Nidus volume was measured by silent MRA, TOF-MRA, and digital subtraction angiography（DSA）. Nidus volume measured by DSA was regarded as golden standard. Results: Silent MRA can accurately measure the nidus volume of CAVM. There is a significant difference in nidus volume measurement between silent MRA and TOF-MRA, silent MRA also has advantage for CAVM patients treated by embolization. Impact: As a non-invasive and contrast agent-free MRA imaging technology, silent MRA can be used as an effective and accurate imaging tool for nidus volume measurement and as a follow-up tool for nidus volume change evaluation after surgery, embolization, and radiotherapy.
Automatic segmentation of lenticulostriate arteries from 7T contrast-enhanced MR angiography in patients with cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Li Rui , Chatterjee Soumick , Radhakrishna Chethan , Tozer Daniel , Benjamin Philip , Nannoni Stefania , Markus Hugh , Rodgers Christopher
Published: November 2024

Motivation: 7T TOF MRA detects the lenticulostriate arteries (LSA), which perfuse important subcortical structures and are implicated in the pathogenesis of cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). Goal(s): This study aimed to automatically segment LSAs from 7T TOF MRA for SVD patients, to facilitate studies of the arterial pathology of SVD. Approach: We applied a state-of-the-art deep learning model “DS6” and a classical multi-scale Frangi filter pipeline to 7T contrast-enhanced TOF MRA scans from 8 SVD patients for LSA segmentation. Results: Both approaches showed comparable and satisfactory performance with mean test dice score=0.74. DS6 was more robust but less sensitive to lower-intensity arteries. Impact: We present an automatic pipeline for 3D segmentation of the lenticulstriate arteries (LSAs) from 7T TOF MRA. This will enable clinical studies to characterise LSA morphology in cerebral small vessel disease which will open new avenues to understand its pathophysiology.
Evaluation of Acceleration Methods for Clinical T1-weighted (T1w) Vessel Wall Imaging
Authors: Pandey Shraddha , Taso Manuel , Fan Zhaoyang , Guggenberger Konstanze , Tran Alexia , Raymond Scott , Lyo Shawn , Sanchez Marisa , Sellers Rob , Savatovsky Julien , Zhu Chengcheng , Song Jae , Tisdall M. Dylan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Clinical VWI scans demand high spatial resolutions, which lead to extended acquisition times, potentially causing limited field-of-view (FOV), motion artifacts, and patient burden. Goal(s): We evaluated FDA-approved acceleration methods for 3D T1w SPACE to develop optimized protocols for clinical VWI studies. Approach: Compressed Sensing (CS) and CAIPI acceleration techniques optimized to reduce scan times and provide whole-head coverage were compared against our current GRAPPA accelerated limited-FOV clinical protocol. Results: The whole-head FOV combined with CS yielded image quality comparable to our current clinical protocol but with almost half the scan time, promising significant reductions in lengthy clinical VWI protocols and patient burden. Impact: Compressed Sensing enabled increased FOV imaging with substantially reduced scan times without significant loss of image quality compared to CAIPI and standard-of-care GRAPPA-accelerated techniques for a clinical T1-weighted vessel wall imaging protocol.
Development of HR-VWI Score to Explore the Characteristics Intracranial Artery Involvement in Relation to Intracranial Lesions in TA
Authors: Xu Haiyang , Yu Wei , Sun Yumeng , Li Lu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Previous studies have not developed a high-resolution wall imaging scoring system for TA patients with intracranial vascular involvement to explore its relationship with intracranial lesions. Goal(s): Develop a HR-VWI score to demonstrate the relationship between the score and incidence of intracranial lesions. Approach: Integrated the degree of luminal stenosis, the pattern and degree of vessel wall enhancement and the number of affected vessels on HR-VWI into a HR-VWI score. Results: TA patients with intracranial lesions had higher HR-VWI scores and HR-VWI scores performed well in distinguishing TA patients with intracranial lesions from those without intracranial lesions. Impact: HR-VWI is a powerful tool for physicians to visualize the condition of vessels by showing the various changes in the vesseel walls and a more reliable method of diagnosing intracranial arterial stenosis than TOF-MRA.
Improved Vessel-Encoded Dynamic Arterial Spin Labeling (VE-DASL) for Vascular Territory Mapping
Authors: Li Hongwei , Wu Peng , Chen Weibo , Wang He , Chen Zhensen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: VE-DASL is promising in achieving fast vascular territory mapping by using short labeling duration and post-labeling delay, but the accuracy is limited, especially in the border zones. Goal(s): To achieve a robust vascular territories separation using VE-DASL. Approach: We adopted optimal encoding scheme and simulated the signal for each territory. The voxels that best matched the simulated signal were identified and their signal was used as the reference. The vascular territories were obtained using matrix inversion or correlation analysis. Results: The proposed method achieved results comparable to VEASL and demonstrated the capability to differentiate the four vascular territories. Impact: We improved VE-DASL by using OES and the proposed vessel-decoding method. This approach enabled us to achieve results comparable to VEASL while offering the potential for extension to more complex vascular scenarios.
MRI T2* Hypointensity at the Glia Limitans in the Olfactory Bulb is due to High Iron in the Olfactory Ensheathing Cells in Young Adult Mouse
Authors: Liu Li , Tao-Cheng Jung-Hwa , Dodd Stephen , Bouraoud Nadia , Rallapalli Hari , Koretsky Alan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Brain iron overload is a hallmark of neuroinflammatory diseases. Here, T2*-weighted MRI detected an increase of hypointensity at the olfactory nerve layer (ONL) in young mice from 3 to 12 weeks. Goal(s): Find out the cellular origins of T2*-hypointensity. Approach: MRI guided immunohistochemistry and electron-microscopy study. Results: We found that the T2*-hypointensity is due to high iron in olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs). OECs form glia limitans, ensheath bundles of olfactory axons, and are the main phagocytic cells in olfactory system to aid regeneration of olfactory neurons. Near high-iron region, lipofuscin, a neuroinflammation marker was found in activated microglia as early as 6 weeks. Impact: Guided by MRI, we found that there is an extraordinarily high level of intrinsic iron in the olfactory ensheathing cells in olfactory nerve layer in young mice, which indicates their phagocytic and neuroprotection functions during rapid olfactory sensory neuron turnover.
Multi-parametric investigation of thalamic iron and neurotransmitter dyshomeostasis in multiple sclerosis patients with high disability
Authors: Salman Fahad , Murdoch James , Jakimovski Dejan , McGranor Cheryl , Zivadinov Robert , Schweser Ferdinand
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Several studies found lower susceptibility in the thalamus of MS patients. Few of these studies have focused on an advanced MS disease stage. Goal(s): To determine if iron and metabolite levels reflect inflammation-induced iron loss in the deep gray matter of patients with advanced MS. Approach: 14 MS patients (EDSS scores >4.0, aged >40 years) and age- and sex-matched controls. We employed multi-echo GRE, Magnetization Transfer Ratio, and a HERMES sequence for edited GABA and glutathione (GSH) assessment in the thalamus. Results: Reduced iron metrics and NAA findings were in line with our hypothesis of iron loss in the thalamus concomitant to neurodegeneration. Impact: Using a combination of edited spectroscopy and MT, R2* and QSM, this study provides support for inflammation-related iron loss in the thalamus of patients with MS.
Exploring the Efficacy of Different Combinations of B-Values and B-Tensor Shapes in Assessing Spinal Cord in MS and NMOSD Using Micro-FA
Authors: Hori Masaaki , Hagiwara Akifumi , Kamiya Kouhei , Yokoyama Kazumasa , Fukunaga Issei , Sano Katsuhiro , Kamagata Koji , Murata Katsutoshi , Fujita Shohei , Andica Christina , Wada Akihiko , Cohen-Adad Julien , Aoki Shigeki
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The necessity to accurately delineate microstructural changes in the spinal cords of MS and NMOSD patients in vivo. Goal(s): Assess if multiple b-tensor diffusion MRI data enhances the clinical utility of Micro Fractional Anisotropy (μFA) in distinguishing pathological variances in MS and NMOSD. Approach: Comparative analysis of μFA values derived from planar tensor encoding data (DDE) and a combination of DDE with linear tensor encoding data was conducted. Results: No significant μFA difference between MS and NMOSD was found, and additional linear tensor encoding data did not improve the results, highlighting the need for optimized imaging protocols. Impact: This study elucidates the criticality of optimizing imaging protocols over merely aggregating data for precise diagnostic outcomes in MS and NMOSD. It prompts further investigation into refining imaging methodologies to uncover microstructural changes, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and subsequent patient management.
Development of Quantitative Magnetization Transfer Imaging for the Human Cervical Spinal Cord at 3 Tesla
Authors: Wang Ping , Li Zhiqiang , Dortch Richard
Published: November 2024

Motivation: We proposed to use a method known as selective inversion recovery (SIR), which allows one to perform the entire QMT (quantitative magnetization transfer) experiment from a conventional inversion recovery sequence. Goal(s): To translate the SIR-QMT method to the spinal cord at 3T with optimized sampling schemes to yield high-resolution cervical spinal cord PSR (macromolecular pool-size-ratios) maps within clinically relevant scan times. Approach: SIR-QMT was conducted on two healthy volunteers to calculate PSR and R1f. Results: These results suggest that QMT imaging can be performed in the human cervical spinal cord at 3T. Impact: The work has important clinical indication to study de/remyelination and nerve injuries/repairs in spinal cord disorders.
4D Flow MRI in Pediatric Brain Arteriovenous Malformation: The Role of Hemodynamic Markers in Monitoring Disease Progression
Authors: Schollenberger Jonas , Mahuvakar Shivani , Fox Christine , Mukherjee Pratik , Kim Helen , Fullerton Heather , Saloner David
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Approximately 10-20% of pediatric patients with brain arteriovenous malformation (bAVM) present with reoccurring formation or growth even after initial successful treatment. Goal(s): Evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of 4D Flow MRI to quantitatively assess the hemodynamic changes in pediatric bAVMs following treatment and establish its use for early detection of high-risk changes. Approach: Prospective 4D Flow MRI study of pediatric bAVM patient cohort pre and post treatmentResults: Decreased flow rate and maximum velocity in main bAVM feeding arteries post treatment, resulting in reduced flow laterality mismatch between hemispheres. Impact: 4D Flow MRI provides a quantitative tool to assess pediatric bAVM flow characteristics and the hemodynamic impact of intervention, which may help to identify patients at risk of bAVM reoccurrence.
Initial results in pediatric volunteers using a silent and motion corrected ZTE protocol
Authors: Eddin Assim Saad , Corum Curtis , Magnotta Vincent , Jacob Mathews , Chen Yan , Hanson Josh , Dicamillo Paul , Holmes James
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Improve imaging for pediatric subjects by reducing loud acoustic noise and accommodating subject motion. Goal(s): Develop a ZTE-based silent and motion-corrected neuroimaging protocol in pediatric subjects. Approach: Nine pediatric volunteers were imaged with a protocol consisting of silent ZTE based T1w and T2w acquisitions and conventional Cartesian 3D gradient echo T1 MPRAGE and T2 FSE-CUBE. Images were reviewed and scored by a board-certified radiologist to assess overall image quality. Results: Radiologist review indicates relatively comparable image quality for the ZTE acquisitions versus the conventional acquisitions. Motion induced blurring of some brain structures during motion was reduced using ZTE with motion correction. Impact: This approach shows promise for studies in sensitive populations such as pediatrics with ear disorders and autism spectrum disorder.
Magnetic Resonance Image of Neonatal Acute Bilirubin Encephalopathy: A Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping Study
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Wei Hongjiang , Lin ZengPing , Tang Ran , Zhang Shuheng , Zhao Meng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Clinical diagnosis of neonatal acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE) based on the conventional MRI sequence has been limited by its difficulty in differentiating confounding image contrast changes associated with normal myelination. Goal(s): This study aims to assess the value of quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) in detecting ABE and understanding its pathogenesis. Approach: All MRI scans were carried out on 3.0T MR scanner (Omega, United Imaging Health Care, Shanghai, China) with multi-parametric MR imaging with flexible design (MULTIPLEX) transverse axis sequence. Results: ABE caused significant magnetic susceptibility value changes in several brain regions which showed correlation with peak total serum bilirubin value. Impact: Our study demonstrated that the brain regions with altered magnetic susceptibility values might be related with ABE pathology, which might be valuable for further studies. And QSM might have the potential efficacy in the auxiliary diagnosis of ABE.
Application of Synthetic MRI Technology in Preoperative Brain Development of Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: xu shengfang , Wang Shaoyu , Ge Xin , Yue songhong , Li Xinyi , Qian jifang , zhu dalin , zhang jing
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) may exhibit brain development abnormalities, making it crucial to understand the risk and improve neurological function in these patients. Goal(s): In this study, we aimed to quantitative assessment of preoperative brain development in CHD children using Synthetic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (SyMRI). Approach: Through the quantitative evaluation and correlation analysis of T1, T2 and and PD values of SyMRI in the preoperative brain development of children with CHD. Results: The results indicate that the presence of neurological development abnormalities existed in children with CHD before surgery. SyMRI can provid a basis for early clinical evaluation and timely intervention. Impact: SyMRI quantitative assessment can serve as a reference indicator for brain development abnormalities in CHD children, aiding in guiding early clinical evaluation and timely intervention.
Verifying the concordance between motion corrected and conventional MPRAGE for pediatric morphometric analysis using minimal motion data
Authors: Gal-Er Barat , Brackenier Yannick , Casella Chiara , Bonthrone Alexandra , Price Anthony , Chew Andrew , O’Muircheartaigh Jonathan , Tomi-Tricot Raphael , Malik Shaihan , Cordero-Grande Lucilio , Hajnal Joseph , Counsell Serena
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Head motion is a common cause of image degradation in pediatric neuroimaging. Multiple strategies are available for correcting intrascan motion, including DISORDER - a retrospective motion correction approach. Goal(s): We aimed to validate the use of DISORDER for brain morphometric analyses in a pediatric population. Approach: We compared a wide range of morphometry measures obtained from high quality linear phase-encoding MPRAGE and DISORDER MPRAGE acquisitions in 21 children aged 7-8 years. Results: DISORDER reduced data loss due to motion and brain morphometric analyses obtained using both MPRAGE acquisitions were highly consistent for most brain regions. Impact: DISORDER, a retrospective motion correction technique, reduces data loss due to head motion in pediatric populations and produces quantitative brain morphometric measures that are largely consistent with measures derived from a standard acquisition.
Investigating the Effects of Antenatal Maternal Anaemia on Brain Structure in 6-Year-Old South African Children: A Neuroimaging Cohort Study
Authors: Ringshaw Jessica , Hendrikse Chanelle , Wedderburn Catherine , Bradford Layla , Williams Simone , Nyakonda Charmaine , Lake Marilyn , Burd Tiffany , Hoffman Nadia , Roos Annerine , Narr Katherine , Joshi Shantanu , Williams Steven , Zar Heather , Stein Dan , Donald Kirsten
Published: November 2024

Motivation: It is unknown whether recent findings linking antenatal maternal anaemia with altered brain structure in toddlers persist to later childhood. Goal(s): This study aimed to determine whether associations of antenatal maternal anaemia with smaller corpus callosum, putamen, and caudate nucleus volumes described in 2–3-year-olds remain at age 6-7 years in the same cohort. Approach: Linear modeling was used to investigate associations between antenatal maternal anaemia status, maternal haemoglobin concentrations, and child brain volumes. Results: Antenatal maternal anaemia was associated with smaller volumes of the corpus callosum and caudate nucleus in school-age children, with comparable adjusted volume differences and coefficients to findings in toddlers. Impact: Evidence that associations of maternal anaemia with brain volumes are consistent and persist from age 2-3 years through to age 6-7 years supports the importance of optimizing antenatal maternal health and reinforces these brain regions as a future research focus.
Comparison of liver and brain stiffness in children with normal weight vs obesity using MR Elastography
Authors: Weber Denise , Sutton Bradley , Kahn Naiman , Cannavale Corinne , Anderson Aaron
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Obesity is associated with numerous debilitating diseases. Obesity-related conditions once only seen in adults are now being seen in children. Obesity affects numerous organs and may affect a child's ability to learn. Goal(s): Identify changes in liver and brain stiffness measurements in the pediatric population that may indicate signs of early-stage disease. Approach: MR elastography images of the liver and brain were obtained and compared to dual energy X-ray (DXA) metabolic measurements. Results: Significant correlations between obesity and stiffness changes in the thalamus and amygdala were identified. Impact: Preliminary results show that changes in liver and brain microstructure of the pediatric population can be seen in correlation to increased adiposity. MR elastography is a valuable tool in diagnosing those early changes.
Reduced frontolimbic functional connectivity in psychostimulant-free ADHD youth with and without familial risk for bipolar I disorder
Authors: Li Qian , Qin Kun , Lei Du , Li Wenbin , Tallman Maxwell J. , Patino L. Rodrigo , Sweeney John A. , Gong Qiyong , Li Fei , DelBello Melissa P. , McNamara Robert K.
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Although youth with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with a family history of bipolar I disorder (BD) are at increased risk for developing BD, associated neurofunctional mechanisms remain understood. Goal(s): To investigate the differences in functional connectivity (FC) between ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) and amygdala (AMY) among ADHD youth with (‘high-risk’, HR) and without (‘low-risk’, LR) a BD family history and healthy controls (HC). Approach: gPPI analysis was conducted to assess the VLPFC-AMY FC in response to unpleasant emotional stimuli. Results: Both LR and HR exhibited lower right VLPFC-left AMY FC compared to HC, and HR had even lower FC compared with LR. Impact: ADHD in conjunction with BD family history showed blunted emotion-generated right VLPFC-left AMY FC compared with ADHD youth without a BD family history and healthy youth, and may therefore represent a central biomarker that is relevant to BD risk progression.
In vitro and in vivo 1H-MRS to identify the fate of glutamine in Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Chakraborty Kasturee , Steinberg Jeffery , Krishnamurthy Kiran , Burman Ritambhar , Tan Haiyan , Zhang Weixing , Bagga Puneet
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Chemo resistance in Ewing sarcoma (EWS) poses a significant hurdle, especially considering the unclear role of the SLFN11 gene. Uninvestigated metabolic dependencies call for an in-depth exploration to improve treatment effectiveness. Goal(s): This research endeavors to connect metabolic changes in EWS with SLFN11 expression, aiming to identify diagnostic markers that could provide mechanistic insights into therapy design. Approach: Our study integrates metabolomics, transcriptomics, in-vitro nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and preclinical magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) to examine how SLFN11 influences chemoresistance in EWS, ultimately paving way for metabolism-driven treatments. Results: We found significantly increased glutamine uptake in SLFN-/- EWS cells compared to WT. Impact: Using 1H-MRS, we show that SLFN11 loss increases EWS reliance on glutamine, is different than conventional glutamine metabolism typically observed in other cancers.
Diagnostic value of adenohypophyseal magnetic resonance imaging features in girls with precocious puberty
Authors: Liu Dong , Liu Weiyin , Zhu Wenzhen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation test is time- and labor- consuming. A prediction model composed of MRI-derived variables for precocious puberty is useful for diagnosis. Goal(s): This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of adenohypophyseal MRI features for precocious puberty in girls. Approach: Pearson correlation and stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis were used to examine the best association of MRI features and clinical data for 126 girls and build prediction models. Results: Two Models were built to predict LH and LH/FSH. ROC analysis showed the predicted LH, predicted LH/FSH, and aPV were the top 3 best predictors in distinguishing CPP group from controls. Impact: The adenohypophysis volume itself and the prediction models including main adenohypophyseal MRI features increased diagnosis efficiency for PP and offered a non-invasive and credible diagnostic method.
Evaluation of deep gray matter for early brain development usingmulti-parametric MR
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Ji Liangyu , Zhang Ye , Lin ZengPing , Tang Ran , Zhang Shuheng , Zhao Meng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Few research has reported the differences of the T1, T2* and proton density (PD) values of multi-parametric magnetic resonance (MR) between healthy preterm and term neonates. Goal(s): To evaluate T1, T2* and PD mapping of preterm and term neonate in the deep gray matter. Approach: We performed MRI on a 3.0T MR scanner (Omega, United Imaging Health Care) using multi-parametric MR imaging with flexible design (MULTIPLEX) transverse axis sequence. Results: T1 relaxation time showed significant differences in bilateral putamen (PT) and pallidus (GP) between preterm and term newborns and was negative correlated with gestational age (GA). Impact: Our study demonstrated that the T1 relaxation time in deep gray matter nuclei decreased with GA, and the preterm showed higher T1 relaxation values than the term neonate in PT and GP at term equivalent age.
Exploring the role of HPG axis and age on the brain of peripubertal girls - a multimodal fusion imaging study using LICA
Authors: Zhang Lingfeng , Han Lu , Yan Zhihan , Lu Yi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The role of age in hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG axis) reactivation on brain changes in girls remains unclear. Goal(s): The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of HPG axis reactivation on the brains of girls of different ages through a multimodal perspective. Approach: We used linked independent component analysis to decompose the girls' multimodal brain images and combined clinical hormones and age. Results: We captured a multimodal component strongly associated with HPG reactivation, which includes structural and functional changes, mainly related to peak LH levels. Also, the degree of change in this multimodal component increased with age. Impact: Our study may provide a new idea for subsequent brain studies concerning the reactivation of the HPG axis and a new direction for further exploration of the physiological mechanisms associated with pubertal brain development.
Time-dependent diffusion MRI for microstructural mapping to distinguish high-grade serous ovarian cancer and serous borderline ovarian tumor
Authors: Cao Yuwei , Lu Yao , Huang Shan , Zhao Xiance , Wu Feiyun , Chen Ting
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The intraoperative frozen sections have shortcomings in distinguishing between high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) and serous borderline ovarian tumor (SBOT). Time-dependent diffusion MRI (td-dMRI) can depict the microstructural parameters of tumors and might play a role in preoperative differentiation of HGSOC from SBOT. Goal(s): To investigate the value of td-dMRI in discriminating HGSOC from SBOT. Approach: Td-dMRI uses the combination of oscillating gradient spin-echo (OGSE) and pulsed gradient spin-echo (PGSE) sequences. Td-dMRI signals were fitted by the IMPULSED model, to extract microstructural parameters. The diagnostic performance was evaluated. Results: Microstructural parameters derived from td-dMRI had good diagnostic performance in differentiating HGSOC from SBOT. Impact: Time-dependent diffusion MRI can depict the microstructural parameters of tumors. It may further assist in preoperative diagnosis and treatment decision-making in clinical practice in the future.
Simplified VERDICT diffusion imaging and modelling for efficient characterisation of prostate cancer
Authors: Phipps Adam , Thorley Natasha , Lamb Alistair , Syer Tom , Panagiotaki Eleftheria , Punwani Shonit , Atkinson David
Published: November 2024

Motivation: VERDICT diffusion imaging and modelling for prostate cancer characterisation requires significant scan time which hinders its clinical practicality. Goal(s): We aim to reduce the scan time requirement of VERDICT through paired model simplification and acquisition reduction whilst retaining model fitting accuracy and diagnostic performance. Approach: We evaluated the model fitting accuracy and diagnostic performance of three simplified VERDICT schemes on 97 patients who underwent targeted biopsy. Results: Our results demonstrate that a scan time reduction of ≈30% can be achieved with minimal impact to performance; model parameters were recovered with <5% mean bias and no significant change in diagnostic performance was observed. Impact: Reducing the scan time of VERDICT diffusion imaging could help to enable integration of VERDICT into clinical practice which could help to reduce the number of healthy men referred for biopsy.
Time-Dependent Diffusion MRI for Characterizing Microstructural Mapping of Prostate cancer Located in the Transition Zone
Authors: Chen Yanling , Wang Huanjun , Cao Wenxin , Weng Zhihua , Guo Yan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Time-dependent diffusion MRI (td-dMRI) has the potential to characterize the microstructure mapping of tissue in vivo. Goal(s): Whether it can benefit accurate and accessible risk stratification for prostate cancer especially in trasition zone has not been established. Approach: In this study, patients who underwent prostate MRI including td-dMRI were enrolled. Correlation between the td-dMRI-based microstructural parameters and International Society of Urological Pathology grade groups (ISUP GG) were investigated and their performance in discriminating clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) from indolent disease was also evaluated. Results: The results showed that Td-dMRI measurements has good differential diagnostic power, and cellularity achieved the highest diagnostic performance. Impact: Time-dependent diffusion MRI–derived microstructural parameters showed high discrimination between clinically significant prostate cancer from indolent disease in the transition zone, which might thereby add an extra dimension in the development of prostate cancer biomarkers.
Multi-Exponential Diffusion Image Analysis (MEDIA) of the human kidney: A clinical feasibility study
Authors: Jasse Jonas , Wittsack Hans-Jörg , Sonntag Nadine , Thiel Thomas , Ljimani Alexandra
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Multi-exponential signal analysis is utilised to identify underlying present diffusion components in diffusion-weighted MRI signals. Various techniques emerged in recent years, but a detailed in-vivo comparison of the fitting approaches employed in the kidney is still missing. Goal(s): Thus, we comparatively applied frequently used fitting methods and novel techniques towards precise in-vivo appliance. Approach: The study comprised 15 healthy volunteers, intended for comparison with tumour patients. Besides NLLS and NNLS techniques, the pyramidal approach was employedResults: Results demonstrated improvements for renal in-vivo data, a distinction between cortex and medulla was also accomplished. These encouraging findings conduct further investigations and comparison with pathologiesImpact: Identifying the most reliable and stable MEDIA approaches will pave the way for novel techniques. These advancements will enhance in-vivo applications, potentially allowing to distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue, recognise pathologies and long-term replace the need for biopsies.
Using the MRI-ADC and clinicopathological feature nomogram to Predict microsatellite instability status in colorectal carcinomas
Authors: Peng Leping , Zhang Xiuling , Wei Zhaokun , Wang Lili , Ai Kai
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Given that microsatellite instability (MSI) detection often involves invasive pathological biopsies, it is of paramount importance to find a non-invasive, individualized detection technology for accurately and effectively predicting the MSI status of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients prior to surgery. This approach could mitigate the limitations associated with biopsies and enhance the treatment of CRC patients. Goal(s): To investigate the value of MRI-ADC mean values and clinicopathological features in predicting MSI in colorectal cancer. Approach: The ADC model and ADC-clinicopathologic nomogram model were established by using MRI-ADC parameters and clinicopathological features. Results: The combined ADC-clinicopathological nomogram model was the best predictor of CRC MSI. Impact: Pathological testing for MSI status is often invasive and comes with a higher risk of complications. In contrast, the ADC-clinical combined nomogram model provides a noninvasive, comprehensive tool for preoperative prediction of CRC MSI and for guiding clinical treatment decisions.
Time-dependent diffusion MRI-based microstructural mapping of cervical cancer: correlation with immunohistochemical biomarkers
Authors: Wang Weijian , Kang Yimeng , Li Wenjing , Li Shujian , Zhang Wenhua , Zhang Kun , Lin Liangjie , Wu Zhigang , Sun Peng , Zhang Yong , Cheng Jingliang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Some immunohistochemical (IHC) markers are gradually accepted as vital prognostic factors guiding therapy in cervical cancer (CC). Goal(s): This study aimed to evaluate the relationship of time-dependent diffusion MRI (td-dMRI)-based microstructural mapping and IHC status of CC. Approach: Quantitative information on cell microstructure are obtained by fitting the IMPULSED model to the td-dMRI data. Results: Intracellular fraction (fin) and cellularity were significantly correlated with the PD-L1 expression, respectively. In addition, fin and cellularity were significantly correlated with Ki-67. The results suggested that microstructural mapping might facilitate the establishment of novel diffusion-derived biomarkers to estimate IHC status and orient treatment of CC. Impact: The td-dMRI-based microstructural mapping showed the potential to estimate the IHC status of cervical cancer for the first time.
APTWI and stretch-exponential model DWI based 18F-FDG PET/MRI for differentiation of benign and malignant solitary pulmonary lesions
Authors: Meng Nan , Feng Pengyang , Zhou Yihang , Yu Xuan , Wu Yaping , Yuan Jianmin , Yang Yang , Wang Zhe , Wang Meiyun
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Although most solitary pulmonary lesions (SPLs) are eventually determined to be benign, early differentiation between benign and malignant lesions remains crucial for effective patient management. Goal(s): This study aimed to perform simultaneous chest 18F-FDG PET, APTWI, MEM-DWI, and SEM-DWI scans in patients with SPLs to compare the differences in each parameter between the benign and malignant groups. Approach: The AUC was used to assess diagnostic efficacy. The Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors. Results: SUVmax, MTV, TLG, α, and MTRasym(3.5ppm) values were lower and ADC, DDC values were higher in benign SPLs than malignant SPLs (all P < 0.01). Impact: Multiparametric PET/MRI based on 18 F-FDG PET, MEM-DWI, SEM-DWI, and APTWI can effectively evaluate the characteristics of SPLs. The prediction model comprising SUVmax, ADC, and MTRasym (3.5 ppm) demonstrated superior diagnostic efficacy compared with individual parameters.
Dynamic Changes in the White Matter Microstructure of Breast Cancer Patients During Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyu , Zhang Jiuquan , Liu Daihong , Lan Xiaosong , Hu Yixin , Yang Jing , Tan Yong , Zhang Jing , Cao Ying , Huang Yao , Tang Lin , Ran Li , Yin Ting
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Chemotherapy can cause cognitive impairment in breast cancer patients. However, the microstructural changes in white matter during chemotherapy remain unknown. Goal(s): To explore the patterns of white matter microstructural changes during chemotherapy. Approach: By using three diffusion models (DTI, DKI and NODDI), white matter microstructure of 72 female breast cancer patients was detected at baseline (TP1), at the completion of the first cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (TP2) and at the completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy but before surgery (TP3). Results: Different diffusion MRI metrics reflected dynamic changes in white matter microstructure in breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Impact: By combining DTI, DKI and NODDI metrics, alterations in white matter microstructure among breast cancer patients were identified from baseline to two subsequent follow-up time points during neoadjuvant chemotherapy. These findings could potentially help the early diagnosis and treatment of chemo-brain.
Estimating pathologic prognostic factors in epithelial ovarian cancers using apparent diffusion coefficients from functional tumour burden
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Zhao Yujiao , Cheng Yue , Qin Jiaming , Shen Wen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: EOC is highly heterogeneous, meaning the average ADC value of the total tumor cannot reflect its internal components, which vary based on pathology. Goal(s): This study sought to assess the utility of ADC values from total and functional tumor burdens to determine pathologic prognostic factors in EOC. Approach: Using k-means clustering to divide the tumor into 2 clusters based on their ADC values, the low ADC cluster was considered to be high cellular. Furthermore, minimum, maximum and average ADC values of functional tumor were calculated. Results: ADC values derived from functional tumor could be used to assess preoperative prognostic factors in EOC. Impact: ADC values derived from functional tumor could be used to assess preoperative prognostic factors in EOC.
Effect of tissues T1 content on the ADC values obtained with breast DWI using STIR fat-suppression
Authors: Le Bihan Denis , Iima Mami , Partridge Savannah , Kubota Kazunori , Ohashi Kazunori , Kataoka Masako , Goto Mariko , Satake Hiroko
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Fat signal suppression is essential for breast DWI as the very low diffusion coefficient of fat tends to decrease ADC values. STIR is a popular method, but signal suppression/attenuation is not specific to fat. Goal(s): To show how ADC values obtained with STIR DWI may be biased toward tissue components with long T1s. Approach: Results were obtained from simulations and data acquired in a dedicated breast DWI phantom made of vials with water and various concentration of PVP. Results: ADC values obtained with STIR fat suppression may be over/under estimated depending on the T1 and ADC profile within tissues. Impact: Fat suppression is essential for DWI. Among techniques STIR leads to low SNR and ADC misestimation depending on the tissues T1/ADC content, as STIR signal attenuation is not specific to fat. Other methods should be preferred, such as SPAIR.
The utility of diffusion kurtosis imaging in assessing immunoglobulin G4-related kidney disease: a feasibility study
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Zhang Gumuyang , Teng Fei , Xue Zhuorui , Xu Lili , Zhang Jiahui , Bai Xin , Chen Li , Peng Qianyu , Guo Erjia , Li Xuemei , Zhu Jinxia , Robert Grimm , Alto Stemmer , Zheng Ke , Jin Zhengyu , Sun Hao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Clinical diagnosis and assessment of immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease is difficult. We explored whether diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) can resolve this difficulty. Goal(s): To explore the feasibility of using DKI in the assessment of IgG4-related kidney disease (IgG4-RKD)Approach: We measured the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and DKI-derived parameters of the renal parenchyma, cortex, and medulla, then analyzed correlations between quantitative image parameters and clinical indicators. Results: DKI-derived quantitative parameters were correlated with clinical indicators and demonstrated feasibility in the assessment of IgG4-RKD. Impact: The DKI technique can help to detect IgG4-RKD lesions. DKI-derived quantitative parameters can assess IgG4-RKD clinical activity and facilitate evaluation of IgG4-RKD prognosis.
Assessment of Low-Field 0.55T MRI for parotid gland: A Comparison with 1.5T and 3T MRI
Authors: Wang Rui , Ma Qifan , Liu Mengxiao , Yuan Ying , Tao Xiaofeng
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Comparing the image quality, distortion, and stability of quantitative parameters of MRI in parotid gland images across 0.55T, 1.5T, and 3T. Goal(s): To compare the clinical performance of 0.55T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems in parotid glands with 1.5T and 3T. Approach: Evaluating image quality, distortion in DWI, and the stability and differences of quantitative parameters derived from IVIM across different field strengths. Results: 0.55T MRI significantly reduces image distortion and maintains stable ADC values in DWI while providing comparable morphologic image quality to 1.5T. Additionally, the diffusion parameters in 0.55T showed significant differences compared to those of 1.5T and 3T. Impact: 0.55T MRI may offer a valuable alternative with the significant altered IVIM-DKI parameters for parotid gland imagings in patients with limited conditions, maintaining image quality and stable ADC values, potentially improving the diagnostic process for certain individuals.
What can be reliably measured in IVIM model: exploring the collinearity in IVIM parameter fitting.
Authors: Dai Yan , Jia Xun , Liao Yen-peng , Deng Jie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Estimating IVIM diffusion MRI (dMRI) parameters through non-linear fitting is challenging due to the inherent ill-posed mathematical problem, causing large uncertainty and poor reproducibility. Goal(s): Understand IVIM-dMRI model properties and derive a more reliable metric than individual IVIM parameters. Approach: Given a dMRI protocol, we investigated diffusion decay signal distributions for various IVIM parameters via numerical simulations. Employing dimension reduction, we defined a new parameter that captured the largest decay signal variation and is hence most robust against noise. Results: A new metric was proposed to have the best achievable robustness for IVIM model parameter fitting. Impact: We proposed a new metric that attains the best achievable robustness for IVIM model parameter fitting. This study addressed the large uncertainty and poor reproducibility issue in IVIM fitting.
Optimized 3D (b-M1-TE) Data Acquisition for Repeatable IVIM and R2 Quantification in the Liver
Authors: Simchick Gregory , Hernando Diego
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) signal is known to depend on first-order motion moment (M1) and TE, which may contribute to observed poor precision of conventional (b-value only) IVIM quantification. Goal(s): Design an optimized 3D (b-M1-TE) IVIM acquisition for precise (repeatable) IVIM and R2 quantification in the liver. Approach: 3D (b-M1-TE) noise-optimized IVIM acquisitions were acquired using a test-retest approach. IVIM estimates were obtained using a recently proposed advanced fitting technique. Test-retest repeatability and interlobar agreement were evaluated. Results: The optimized 3D (b-M1-TE) IVIM acquisition demonstrated moderate to good repeatability and interlobar agreement of IVIM and R2 estimates (coefficients of variation < 32.0%). Impact: A noise-optimized 3D (b-M1-TE) IVIM acquisition is proposed for simultaneous and repeatable IVIM and R2 quantification in the liver. Accounting for M1 and TE dependencies in the IVIM signal may enable improved diagnostic performance and treatment monitoring of IVIM quantification.
New linear IVIM model yields accurate perfusion fraction, with fast fitting, image acquisition, and uncertainty estimates.
Authors: Knill Annemarie , Winfield Jessica , Koh Dow-Mu , Messiou Christina , Blackledge Matthew
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Intra-voxel incoherent motion imaging (IVIM) suffers from long acquisition times due to the number of low b-values typically required, which limits clinical use. Goal(s): To develop a faster linearised method of IVIM modelling requiring fewer b-values to approximate the perfusion fraction with uncertainty estimation. Approach: Compare our linear IVIM fitting using 4 b-values and with conventional biexponential modelling using 8 b-values in 26 patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma. Results: Strong agreement in perfusion fraction estimates between the two models. Impact: The proposed linear model could estimate the perfusion fraction and associated uncertainty in a broader range of clinical applications where acquisition time may be constrained (body DWI for example).
Spatial profiling of parameters derived from diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the healthy human kidney
Authors: Sigmund Eric , Gilani Nima , Mikheev Artem , Brinkmann Inge , Kumbella Malika , Babb James , Basukala Dibash , Wetscherek Andreas , Benkert Thomas , Chandarana Hersh
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Kidney microstructure has received relatively less attention compared to other organs due to EPI artifacts convolved with motion and cardiac pulsatility. Recently, mitigations of these artifacts have enabled more microstructural explorations of the kidney. Goal(s): The study aimed at deriving estimates of microstructure and microcirculation from the perspective of concentric layers segmentations. Approach: We scrutinized the dependence of renal DWI parameters from conventional representations (DTI, IVIM), an advanced hybrid DTI-IVIM approach and a multiple encoded FC-IVIM model on concentric layers. Results: The most significant layer dependence was observed for pseudodiffusion parameters and structural fractional anisotropy, with weaker dependences observed for structural diffusivity parameters. Impact: Potential extrapolations to kidney microstructure using in vivo MRI could be highly impactful in the study of renal dysfunction.
H-Index, a Metric for Tumor Hypoxia Discrimination Derived from the IVIM Diffusion MRI Model
Authors: Dai Yan , Jia Xun , Liao Yen-peng , Desai Neil , Deng Jie
Published: November 2024

Motivation: There are large variations in perfusion-related quantifications using the IVIM model in disease diagnosis and therapeutic response evaluation. Goal(s): This study aims to improve the reliability of applying IVIM model in hypoxic level classification by considering the model parameter collinearity. Approach: We introduced a Bayesian inference method to estimate IVIM parameter probability distribution, followed by a linear discrimination analysis. This analysis produces a robust metric for distinguishing hypoxic and non-hypoxic tumor tissues. Results: A reliable metrics, as a linear combination of two IVIM parameters (Dt and Fp), accurately reflects tumor tissue hypoxia levels using established outcomes as training dataset and a reference. Impact: We addressed the challenge of uncertainty in IVIM parameter fitting arising from the strong collinearity inherent in the IVIM biexponential model. Additionally, we introduced a robust metric, H-index, for distinguishing between hypoxic and non-hypoxic tumors, referencing previous histopathologically confirmed data.
Animal experimental study of IVIM in assessing obesity-related glomerulopathy
Authors: Xia Xiaoying , Huang Yanhao , Cheng Zhongyuan , Cui Wei , Cai Xiangran
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Early symptoms of obesity-related glomerulopathy (ORG) are atypical and diagnosis depends on invasive kidney biopsy. Goal(s): This study assessed the potential of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) to detect renal injury induced by ORG and monitor renal function after weight loss therapy. Approach: IVIM were performed in high fat diet (HF) and standard diet (St) rats’ kidney before and after therapy. Results: Compared with St group, significant decreases in D, D*, f in kidney of HF group were observed, and D was the first to decrease. After therapy, D, D*, f and the renal function were increased simultaneously. Impact: Obesity with high metabolic demand leads to renal injury and obesity-related glomerulopathy (ORG). Early symptoms of ORG are not obvious, which may increase the risk of chronic kidney diseases. Non-invasively detecting ORG-induced renal injury can prevent poor prognosis.