bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase-Resolved Functional Lung MRI Reveals Perfusion Abnormalities in Postacute COVID-19 Syndrome
Authors: Ouyang Tao , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Vogel-Claussen Jens , Zhang Chen , Yang Qi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The Pulmonary perfusion defects were unknown in post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). Goal(s): To investigate the utility of phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI in detecting pulmonary perfusion disturbances inPACS. Approach: Participants diagnosed with PACS were recruited, along with healthy (NCT05933317). The quantified parameter QDP derived from PREFUL MRI represents abnormal pulmonary blood flow. Results: 44 participants with PACS, and 43 healthy were assessed. QDP significantly exceeded healthy controls in PACS (39.81% ± 15.0% vs 8.2% ± 3.3%) and was notably higher in inpatients (46.8% ± 17.0% vs 34.5% ± 10.8%). Moreover, males exhibited higher QDP than females (43.9% ± 16.8% vs 34.4% ± 10.2%). Impact: PREFUL MRI demonstrates notable perfusion defects in participants with PACS.
MRS Investigations of the Metabolomic Pathophysiology of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
Authors: Zhang Ella , Benatzky Clara , Ziegler Aaron , Su Li , Christiani David , Cheng Leo
Published: November 2024

Motivation: ARDS currently has unacceptable high mortality and long-term complications, which underscores the urgency of improving our understanding and management of ARDS. Goal(s): To establish pathology-guided serum metabolomic profiles for ARDS patients by comparing them with profiles from patients without ARDS. Approach: We measured ARDS serum using high-resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to establish serum metabolomic profiles for ICU-patients with and without ARDS following various clinical outcomes. Results: Serum specimens measured by HRMAS MRS enables the predictions of ARDS patient outcome in ICU. Impact: Our initial results highlight the feasibility of HRMAS MRS in investigating ARDS metabolomic mechanisms, which may lay the basis for future diagnostic and therapeutic research, offering promising prospects for innovation in ARDS management.
Decreased cortical thickness in obsessive compulsive disorder: a meta-analysis of brain structural magnetic resonance imaging studies.
Authors: Chen Yufei , Long Fenghua , Li Qian , Wang Yitian , Wang Yaxuan , Li Fei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Although studies indicate abnormalities in cingulo-opercular and default mode networks in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), neuroimaging evidence of brain structural alterations is still limited and contradictory. Goal(s): To compare cortical thickness (CTh) between patients with OCD and healthy controls. Approach: We performed a meta-analysis on CTh and conducted subgroup analyses and meta-regression analyses to explore the effects of confounding factors on CTh. Results: Our study found decreased CTh in the left posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), left dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), and right pars opercularis in OCD. Medicated-subgroup analysis showed no between-group differences in dACC, though reduced CTh of PCC and pars opercularis remained. Impact: Our study found decreased CTh in cingulo-opercular and default mode networks in patients with OCD, which helped explore the neural mechanism of OCD, and also suggested that medication might have an impact on CTh alterations in OCD.
Volumetric brain analysis and associated retinal thinning in autosomal dominant optic atrophy plus syndrome
Authors: Pajareeyapong Punpath , Thammasarnsophon Sasi , Buathong Sittaya , Sathianvichitr Kanchalika , Rattanathamsakul Natthapon , Chirapapaisan Niphon , Ngamsombat Chanon
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Dominant optic atrophy plus patients have retinal thinning like in glaucoma patients that have associated structural atrophy of primary visual cortex. Goal(s): To evaluate the cerebral atrophy of DOA-plus patients compared with normal healthy group and analyse correlation between the retinal thinning and primary visual cortex atrophy. Approach: Recruited DOA-plus and normal healthy patients were examed with OCT test for retinal abnormality, imaged with 3T MRI and analyse the images using Freesurfer software for data including gray matter volume. Results: DOA-plus patients have significant cerebral atrophy, more pronounce at primary visual cortex with positive correlation between retinal thinning and primary visual cortex. Impact: For better understanding of structural brain change in DOA-plus patients and may help in the study of pathophysiology of primary visual cortex atrophy in DOA-plus patient by advanced MRI techniques.
Thalamic Morphometry Abnormalities in Trigeminal Neuralgia Using Deformation-Based Shape Analysis
Authors: Luo Siping , Lin Fan , Tang Xiaoying , Zhong Pinyuan , Qin Haodong
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The potential pathophysiologic mechanisms related to trigeminal neuralgia (TN) needed elucidation, and alternative biomarkers of TN needed to be identified. Goal(s): To explore atrophy in specific subregions of the thalamus, which may contribute to the pathophysiology of TN. Approach: We used vertex-based shape analysis to evaluate the differences in thalamus volume and shape in patients with TN and determine the location of regional thalamic atrophy. Results: The analysis revealed distinct brain structural disparities between patients with TN exhibiting symptoms on the right and left sides. Compared with controls, patients with TN showed atrophy in specific subregions of the thalamus. Impact: This study used an advanced deformation-based statistical shape analysis pipeline to investigate localized morphometric abnormalities in the thalamus, rather than relying on global volume measurements. It may help us understand the pathologic mechanism of trigeminal neuralgia.
Towards precise quantification of chronic active MS lesions using submillimeter isotropic QSM with 3D-EPI at 3T
Authors: Nair Sreekanth Madhusoodhanan , Silemek Arzu Has , Renner Brian , Gombos Elaina , Quah Bryan , Subhi Mustafa , Jin Jin , Han Fei , Binesh Nader , Maya Marcel , Li Debiao , Kaisey Marwa , Sicotte Nancy , Al-Louzi Omar , Sati Pascal
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) enables in vivo detection of chronic active brain lesions in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) due the presence of iron-laden lesion borders also called Paramagnetic Rim Lesions (PRL). Goal(s): To evaluate the feasibility of generating submillimeter isotropic resolution QSM using 3D-EPI for precise quantification of PRL in MS patients. Approach: Separate masks for the lesion rim and lesion core were generated. Results: Submillimeter resolution reduces the partial volume averaging effect and enables measurement of the lesion rim in PRL+ lesions, which exhibit susceptibility values 3 times that of the lesion core. Impact: This study demonstrates the feasibility of submillimeter isotropic quantitative susceptibility mapping to precisely quantify the magnetic susceptibility properties of MS lesions.
Quantitative T2* Ferumoxytol MRI to Evaluate Activated Innate Immunity in Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Kim Seong-Eun , Francis Trieste , Wong Ka-Ho , Soldan M Mateo Paz
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Multiple sclerosis (MS) progression involves inflammation, microglia, and macrophage activation, contributing to axonal damage. Goal(s): This study investigates the utility of ferumoxytol-enhanced MRI for evaluating activated microglia and macrophages in progressive MS. Approach: . Nine secondary progressive MS patients underwent baseline and post-ferumoxytol 3T MRI scans, with T2* and ΔT2* maps computed to quantify ferumoxytol retention in lesions. Results: We successfully quantified ferumoxytol levels in ΔT2*-enhanced MS lesions in four subjects. In relapsing MS, newly formed active lesions typically contain a substantial number of macrophages, while chronic-active lesions in progressive MS predominantly exhibit microglia and macrophages in the perilesional areaImpact: These findings suggest ferumoxytol-enhanced MRI's potential for assessing microglia and macrophage activity in progressive MS, aiding accurate diagnoses and treatment. Clinicians could gain a valuable tool for monitoring disease progression, improving patient management and outcomes.
Serum 24-Hydroxycholesterol is weakly correlated with brain water content, myelin water fraction and T1 relaxation in different stages of MS
Authors: Marini Noah , Becquart Pierre , Dyer Roger , Traboulsee Anthony , Carruthers Robert , Kolind Shannon , Schabas Alice , Sayao Ana-Luiza , Devonshire Virginia , Tam Roger , Moore Wayne , Li David , Quandt Jacqueline , Vavasour Irene , Laule Cornelia
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Quantitative and specific MRI methods may better characterize brain changes in multiple sclerosis (MS). Serum biomarkers that reflect advanced MRI measures would be an accessible and cost-effective tool for tracking these changes. Goal(s): To explore the ability of serum 24-hydroxycholesterol to reflect changes in advanced brain MRI measures in MS. Approach: 103 MS participants with diverse disease course subtypes underwent 3T MRI and same-day venous blood sampling. Results: Lesion water content and myelin water fraction (MWF), normal appearing white matter MWF and T1, and diffusely abnormal white matter MWF demonstrated relationships with serum 24-hydroxycholesterol in specific disease courses of MS. Impact: Correlation between serum 24-hydroxycholesterol and advanced MRI measures in different MS subtypes encourage further investigation of its use as a supportive marker. The development of MRI and serum markers could improve the sensitivity and frequency of monitoring MS disease progression.
Resolution of glial activation in relapsing and primary progressive MS over 2 years with ocrelizumab: longitudinal MR spectroscopy study
Authors: Russell-Schulz Bretta , MacMillan Erin , Alejo Glaynel , Vavasour Irene , Harp Christopher , Cameron Briana , Winger Ryan , Jia Sherman , Herman Ann , Cross Helen , Tam Roger , Traboulsee Anthony , Carruthers Robert , Kolind Shannon
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Need for treatment tracking biomarkers in multiple sclerosis (MS). Goal(s): To demonstrate increased sensitivity to metabolite changes in a more homogeneous MRS voxel in RMS and to investigate whether PMS exhibits a similar trend with treatment. Approach: Single voxel spectroscopy to examine metabolite changes in a large white matter region over time in ocrelizumab treated MS patients compared to single timepoint healthy controls. Results: Marker of glial cell density and activation decreased over 2 years of treatment in both relapsing (similar to previously study) and progressive MS. A weak correlation was observed between the glial marker and measure of disability at baseline. Impact: Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) offers biomarkers of glial density/activation that may solve a clinical unmet need to track the neuroinflammatory response to multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies. This study demonstrates how MRS biomarkers change with treatment in MS white matter.
Assessment of region-specific oxidative stress in multiple sclerosis using short-TE STEAM at 7T
Authors: Senthil Sneha , Near Jamie , Detcheverry Flavie , Fonov Vladimir , Arnaoutelis Rozie , Arnold Douglas , Badhwar AmanPreet , Narayanan Sridar
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Brain oxidative stress has an important role in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS). Goal(s): This work assessed oxidative stress in relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) by measuring the major brain antioxidant, glutathione (GSH). Approach: GSH concentrations were measured using 7T MRS in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and centrum semiovale white matter (CSWM) of 10 RRMS patients and 13 matched healthy controls. The relationship between GSH concentrations and functional measures was also investigated. Results: This preliminary investigation showed no significant difference in GSH concentration between RRMS and healthy participants, and no significant relationship between GSH concentration and functional measures. Impact: Oxidative stress was not detected in our RRMS participants, concordant with one previous study. Prior work has shown low GSH in progressive MS. Further work with larger sample sizes will investigate oxidative stress in RRMS participants at risk of progression.
Differences in local functional connectivity strength in patients with early and late multiple sclerosis
Authors: Koenig Katherine , Huang Xuemei , Ontaneda Daniel , Mahajan Kedar , Oh Se-Hong , Jones Stephen , Lowe Mark
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Disease progression is variable in multiple sclerosis (MS). Widely-used measures of neuropathology do not show a straightforward relationship to functional decline. Goal(s): Our work aims to identify changes in brain function that are related to MS disease progression. Approach: We measured resting state functional connectivity MRI at 7 tesla in 71 adults with MS. We compared cortical grey matter regional homogeneity (ReHo) in participants with early and late stage MS and correlated ReHo with MS disease severity. Results: Local connectivity, measured by ReHo, was stronger in early MS and was related to disease severity. Impact: MRI-based measures that track and predict MS disease progression could identify patients who subsequently decline and serve as outcome measures in clinical trials of novel disease modifying treatments.
Disease-modifying therapies and the longitudinal improvement of the thalamocortical white matter network in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Al-iedani Oun , Alshehri Abdulaziz , Koussis Nikitas , Khormi Ibrahim , Lea Rodney , Ramadan Saadallah , Lechner-Scott Jeannette
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) induces widespread changes in white matter (WM), affecting crucial functions. This novel longitudinal study investigates these alterations using advanced MRI, potentiating improved diagnosis and treatment.Goal(s): To investigate differences in WM microstructure on a network level between RRMS and healthy controls (HCs) over two years.Approach: Advanced MRI (diffusion-weighted imaging and tractography) was used in a network-based analysis of WM tracts, comparing RRMS to HCs.Results: Our findings reveal widespread WM disparities in RRMS. We identified network differences between RRMS and HCs, offering valuable insights into RRMS pathophysiology and potential remyelination during disease-modifying treatments.Impact: This novel study reveals widespread white matter differences in relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients, providing crucial insights into RRMS pathophysiology. It highlights potential remyelination during treatment, offering promise for improved diagnosis and therapy.
A high-resolution MT-weighted Zero Time Echo sequence for 7T - initial experience with healthy volunteers and Multiple Sclerosis patients
Authors: Symms Mark , Koziol Paulina , Rua Catarina , Wisniewska Katarzyna , Pietron Natalia , Niedzalek Anna , Kochalska Katarzyna , Kelley Doug , Pankowska Anna , Wawrzycki Konrad , Stepniewski Andrzej , Pietura Radoslaw , Dyndor Katarzyna
Published: November 2024

Motivation: MT-weighted imaging is important for detecting and diagnosing neuro-degenerative disorders. At 7T, high RF power deposition is challenging for MT-weighted sequences and often limits imaging performance. Goal(s): We demonstrate a high-resolution, MT-weighted, Zero Time Echo (ZTE) sequence which can produce whole-brain images at clinically useful levels of RF power deposition. Approach: We demonstrate an MT-weighted ZTE sequence for 7T and use it to scan healthy volunteers and subjects with Multiple SclerosisResults: Whole-brain MT-weighted ZTE images of high quality and 0.8mm isotropic imaging were produced with clinically useful SAR levels. Impact: High-resolution MT-weighted ZTE images could provide important novel information for neurologists and psychiatrists.
Learning-based Separation of Macromolecules and Metabolites in Ultrashort-TE FID MRSI with Auxiliary SE MRSI Data
Authors: Zhao Yibo , Li Yudu , Jin Wen , Guo Rong , Li Yao , Luo Jie , Liang Zhi-Pei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Macromolecules have significant spectral overlap with metabolites, confounding accurate quantification of metabolites in ultrashort-TE MRSI. Goal(s): To develop a novel method for effective and reliable separation of metabolites and macromolecules from ultrashort-TE FID MRSI data. Approach: We translated auxiliary macromolecule-free SE metabolite signals to FID signals using a learning-based approach. The translated metabolite reference was incorporated in the spectral model of FID MRSI data through generalized series modelling. Macromolecules signals were modelled with probabilistic subspaces. Results: The proposed method has been validated using numerical simulation and experimental data from healthy subjects and a tumor patient, producing encouraging results. Impact: This work provides a novel approach to exploiting the characteristic spectral features in FID and SE MRSI experiments for effective separation of metabolites and macromolecules.
1H-MRS VERI: The Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Validation Effort Resource Initiative
Authors: Swanberg Kelley , Zöllner Helge , LaMaster John , Kaiser Antonia , Near Jamie , Fleischer Candace , Oeltzschner Georg , Juchem Christoph
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Many details of in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) data analysis still lack evidence-based standards. Goal(s): The 1H-MRS Validation Effort Resource Initiative (1H-MRS VERI) is a public repository for sharing spectral datasets useful for formulating such standards. Approach: 1H-MRS VERI data sets include measurements from phantoms (VERIph), spectral simulations of predefined metabolite scaling, including simulated and/or measured in-vivo-like nuisance signals (VERIsim), and 1H-MRS acquisitions from human or other tissues colocalized with supporting measurements from non-1H-MRS experiments (VERIvivo). Results: 1H-MRS VERI facilitates field-wide efforts toward accurate and precise in vivo 1H-MRS quantification via transparent, replicable investigation of shared empirical standards. Impact: 1H-MRS research marches on, largely uninformed by commonly accepted evidence-based guidelines for many data analysis details from denoising methods to baseline definitions. 1H-MRS VERI provides a curated collection of data standards to facilitate the shared development of these still-needed guidelines.
Evaluation of retrospective frequency drift correction methods for single-voxel MR spectroscopy at 7T
Authors: Lee Chu-Yu , Xu Jia , Yang Baolian , Magnotta Vincent
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Retrospective methods to correct frequency drifts has been evaluated at 3T systems but not at 7T systems, where the line-broadening effect may degrade the performance of the correction. Goal(s): To evaluate retrospective frequency drift correction methods at 7T using simulations and human spectra. Approach: The frequency correction methods were applied to the simulated spectra and human spectra at 7T to evaluate the accuracy of the frequency drift estimates and the spectral linewidth after the correction. Results: Among these methods, the spectral registration method showed a more accurate estimate of the frequency drift and a larger improvement of spectral linewidth. Impact: 7T offers a high sensitivity to detect weakly represented metabolites/neurotransmitters that are relevant to studying neurological and mental disorders. This study addresses frequency drift correction for accurate, consistent metabolite/neurotransmitter quantifications and may help expand the applications of MRS at 7T.
Using synMARSS, a novel platform for simulating in vivo synthetic spectra, to investigate 14N heteronuclear coupling effects
Authors: Landheer Karl , Treacy Michael , Döring André , Instrella Ronald , Igwe Kay , Kreis Roland , Juchem Christoph
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Synthetic spectra can be used to investigate modeling assumptions, optimize sequence parameters and for machine learning training data Goal(s): To develop a platform that can produce synthetic spectra, and to use it to investigate the effects of 14N coupling on 1H quantificationApproach: MARSS was extended to be able to create synthetic spectra, and accommodate spin 1 nuclei Results: Using synthetic spectra it was shown that approximating 14N heteronuclear coupling as weak homonuclear coupling results in small effects on quantification of the prominent metabolites at short echo time for PRESS, however, these effects increase with echo time. Impact: MARSS was extended to simulate non-1H in vivo synthetic magnetic resonance spectra. Synthetic spectra can be used to bolster experimental evidence, or to investigate questions which are impossible or infeasible experimentally.
Saturated T2 Curves for Relaxation-Based Compartmental Analysis in PRESS Localized 1H MRS
Authors: Knight-Scott Jack , Gallagher Isabelle , Caillaud Marie , Li Yanrong , Park Jessica , Haley Andreana
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Rapid Relaxometry through Acquisition of Multiple Saturated T2 Curves (RRAMSC) is a time-efficient STEAM compartmental analysis method. While it has been theorized that the technique can also be used in PRESS localization, it has not yet been demonstrated. Goal(s): Our goal is to examine RRAMSC for separating the tissue water and CSF when using PRESS localized spectroscopy. Approach: To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the applicability of RRAMSC for PRESS in vivo. Results: Results show excellent agreement between theoretical and actual differences for a PRESS-based RRAMSC, showing negligible differences and a mean error of less than 2%Impact: This study extends the rapid relaxometry through acquistion of multiple saturated T2 curves, a time-efficient relaxometry technique for water compartmentalization, to the more commonly used point resolved spectroscopy localization technique.
MP-PCA denoising of kinetic 13C-MR spectra of human liver: performance analysis for synthetic and in vivo data
Authors: Poli Simone , Mosso Jessie , Herzig David , Bally Lia , Kreis Roland
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Need to improve determination of kinetics for low-concentration metabolites using X-nuclear MRS. Goal(s): Investigate potential benefits of denoising by Marchenko-Pastur Principal Component Analysis (MP-PCA) for extracting natural-abundance glycogen kinetics from 13C-MRS data. Approach: MP-PCA applied on synthetic and human in-vivo hepatic 13C-MRS time-course datasets. Results: MP-PCA substantially improves apparent SNR and reduces mean linear regression residuals, without introducing bias in slope estimates. MP-PCA is shown to be valuable for the determination of unknown physiologic time-courses of low-concentrated glycogen signals; here, specifically enabling use of lower D-glucose loads in combined deuterium metabolic imaging and 13C-MRS evaluations of hepatic glucose metabolism. Impact: Our findings on MP-PCA's efficacy in enhancing the determination of glycogen kinetics by 13C-MRS broaden the understanding of denoising techniques in MR spectroscopy and ultimately impact researchers and clinicians who develop, assess, or apply MR techniques suffering from low SNR.
A new approach for reproducible water fraction and T1 mapping across different qMRI acquisition protocols
Authors: Mama Eden , Marques José P. , Mezer Aviv A.
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The quantitative MRI community uses various acquisition approaches to extract the same quantitative maps while continuously working to find the agreement between them. Goal(s): Our goal was to examine the agreement between the outcomes of two acquisition approaches, variable flip angle and MP2RAGE. Approach: We produced a postprocessing method that generated qMRI maps from both acquisition approaches and controlled the similarities between the maps. Results: Our new approach produced strong correlations between qMRI maps acquired with different sequences, emphasizing the agreement and consistency between them. Impact: Our approach provides high agreement between different qMRI acquisition strategies, that may allow harmonization between different scanners and MR protocols and enable the usage of multiple datasets for research purposes.
Image processing techniques used in satellite imaging can improve change detection on longitudinal MRI scans
Authors: Tibrewala Radhika , Sodickson Daniel , Chandarana Hersh , Ruello Giuseppe , Lattanzi Riccardo
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Change mapping techniques used in satellite imaging could be used for visualizing changes in longitudinal MRI. Goal(s): To generate change maps to highlight tumor margins in longitudinal MRI scans of patients with brain metastasis. Approach: We used the NYUMets public dataset. We adapted the VALE method used in satellite imaging to generate change saliency maps for patients with small brain metastasis by performing spatial and intensity registration over longitudinal MRI data. Results: The change mapping technique made small tumors visually obvious, enhanced visualization of change in tumors and edema over time, and showed tumor boundaries that were not visible on T1-post contrast images. Impact: This work demonstrates that image processing techniques used in satellite imaging could be effectively used for tracking changes in longitudinal MRI. The proposed approach can lead to better treatment planning and patient progress monitoring due to its sensitivity to changes.
Parallelized Patch2Self & other denoising methods on 7T diffusion weighted imaging: comparisons of quality and effects on tractometry
Authors: Camacho Paul , Fadnavis Shreyas , Anderson Aaron , Garyfallidis Eleftherios , Damon Bruce , Wzsalek Tracey , Sutton Brad
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Performance of denoising methods and effects on downstream analyses for diffusion-weighted imaging at 7 Tesla are understudied. Goal(s): Determine which denoising methods provide better performance and whether any skew tractometry outcomes. Approach: Preliminary data acquired using two different diffusion sequences - 30 or 64 directions/shell multi-shell - were separately denoised using either Patch2Self, oversampled local-PCA, non-local means, or Marchenko-Pastur PCA before QSIPrep pre-processing and DSI Studio AutoTrack GQI. Results: Contrast-to-noise ratios were best for Patch2Self and oversampled local-PCA, agreeing with visual assessment. Fractional anisotropy distributions were higher and mean diffusivity lower in several major bundles for non-local means than Patch2Self, especially with lower angular resolution. Impact: The computationally-efficient parallel Patch2Self improves 7T diffusion data quality and produces lower fractional anisotropy values in tractometry of common bundles for biomarker searches than non-local means. Denoising methods should be considered in literature comparisons and image preprocessing in clinical trials.
A comparison of semi-automatic quality control methods for 3D-T1 weighted scans
Authors: Hendriks Janine , Joules Richard , Peña-Nogales Óscar , Wolz Robin , Rodrigez Paulo , Barkhof Frederik , Schrantee Anouk , Mutsaerts Henk-Jan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The implementation of QC in T1w MRI scans remains unstandardized and still involves human specialists, without consensus on a systematic approach to identify the presence of artifactsGoal(s): Our goal was to compare the relative performance of three algorithms with visual QC, and compare their capabilities in detecting simulated blurring, ghosting, and noise artifacts on a new unseen dataset. Approach: Synthetic artifacts were introduced into MRI scans that passed visual quality control, and thresholds were determined for CAT12 and LONIQC, and a classifier for MRIQC was trained. Results: MRIQC outperformed CAT12 and LONIQC in detecting both real artifacts as well as simulated artifacts. Impact: Substantial differences in the performance of different automatic quality control algorithms were shown when compared to visual QC and on simulated data. This suggests that better evaluation of the relation between artifact type, input features and classification methods is needed.
An Integrated Framework for Whole Brain Arteries Modeling on Compressed Sensing TOF-MRA at 7T
Authors: Li Zhixin , Zhang Jinyuan , An Jing , Xue Rong , Zhuo Yan , Zhang Zihao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Whole-brain vasculature modeling remains challenging due to background variations and diverse vessel sizes. Goal(s): We pursued an integrated framework for the accurate segmentation and tracking of vasculature in the whole brain. Approach: Small-patch CNN (SP-CNN) and centerline-Dice nnU-Net (CDNN) were utilized for multiscale segmenting of vessels. A random forest and soft-skeletonization were applied for tracking. A novel rotation algorithm was used to calculate diameters accurately. Results: We accurately reconstructed the arteries from compressed sensing time-of-flight MR angiography (CS-TOF-MRA) and geometric parameters of full-size arteries were obtained. Impact: Our work enables the segmentation of full-size-arteries in CS-TOF-MRA. As this method integrates algorithms for higher accuracy and robustness, it will be beneficial for clinical diagnosis.
Two-pulse phase-modulated (TPPM) 1H decoupling for detection of the C1-glycogen peak in 13C MRS using a 3T clinical scanner.
Authors: Kuribayashi Hideto , Inubushi Toshiro
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To develop a safe MR method to non-invasively measure skeletal muscle glycogen levels in humans. Goal(s): To reduce SAR without degrading the spectral quality of the 1H-decoupled C1-glycogen peak in 13C MRS. Approach: To introduce the two-pulse phase-modulated (TPPM) 1H decoupling scheme, which is widely used for 13C NMR of organic solids, into the 13C MRS pulse sequence for a clinical scanner. Results: The 1H-decoupled C1-glycogen peak could be obtained from a solution phantom using a clinical 3T scanner while reducing SAR with shortening the duration of the TPPM 1H decoupling during 13C FID acquisition. Impact: 13C MRS with the TPPM 1H decoupling for measuring human skeletal muscle glycogen levels may be more advantageous at high magnetic fields due to the lower SAR, leading to higher SNR or shorter scan times.
Improved spatial resolution for in vivo deuterium metabolic imaging using 2H 3D-FID-MRSI with concentric ring trajectories.
Authors: Niess Fabian , Strasser Bernhard , Hingerl Lukas , Bader Viola , Frese Sabina , Clarke William , Motyka Stanislav , Niess Eva , Krssak Martin , Trattnig Siegfried , Scherer Thomas , Lanzenberger Rupert , Bogner Wolfgang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Sufficiently high spatial resolution for metabolic mapping of brain glucose metabolism is crucial as regional differences are present in many severe brain diseases, such as dementia, tumors and schizophrenia. Goal(s): To increase spatial resolution for whole brain deuterium metabolic imaging without prolonging scan times. Approach: Implement density-weighted concentric ring trajectory for 2H FID-MRSI readout to achieve 2.5-fold increase in spatial resolution while maintaining sufficient SNR. Results: Contrast-enhanced metabolic maps were acquired using CRT with significantly higher (+33%,p<0.01) Glx concentrations in GM regions compared to WM, while no differences were observed using lower resolution phase-encoded MRSI. Impact: Increased spatial resolution for dynamic deuterium metabolic imaging is crucially needed as many severe brain pathologies feature regional differences in brain glucose metabolism. However, prolonged scan times ultimately limit the achievable spatial resolution using conventional methods for whole brain DMI.
Integrated B0 and B1 mapping and image correction for hyperpolarized Carbon-13 metabolic imaging in the human brain
Authors: Yeung Kylie , McGing Jordan , Axford Aaron , Birkhoelzer Sarah , Shinozaki Ayaka , Lewis Andrew , Rayner Jenny , Rider Oliver , Schulte Rolf , Gleeson Fergus , Tyler Damian , Grist James
Published: November 2024

Motivation: B0 and B1 inhomogeneities affect signal quantification and kinetic modelling but are challenging to map and correct for in hyperpolarized MRI due to the signal being exogenous and non-renewable. Goal(s): Develop a fully-integrated B0 and B1 mapping method that does not require specialized pulse sequence programming, additional hardware, nor any additional carbon-13 dose. Approach: Varying echo times and flip angles in the imaging sequence. Results: The in-vivo field maps agreed well with independently acquired maps and could correct for B0 off-resonance blurring and B1 inhomogeneity. Impact: A fully-integrated B0 and B1 mapping and correction method for hyperpolarized carbon-13 MRI is presented and validated in vivo. This method is readily implemented and can improve image quality, helping 13C metabolic imaging become more robust for clinical studies.
Highly under-sampled 3D Dynamic Hyperpolarized 13C Spiral Chemical Shift Imaging with Low Rank Plus Local Sparse Reconstruction
Authors: Zhu Minjie , Jhajharia Aditya , Rogers Joshua , Mayer Dirk
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Fully sampled 3DspCSI acquisition limits the temporal resolution for dynamic imaging Goal(s): Our goal was to reconstruct highly under-sampled 3DspCSI without significant image artifactsApproach: We proposed a low rank plus local sparse (LLS) reconstruction with two types of configurations to reconstruct the under-sampled 3DspCSI dataResults: proposed methods with both types of configurations can effectively reduce the image artifacts due to under-sampling. Type 2 configuration performs slightly better than Type 1 with less image artifacts due to the distinct patterns along the slice dimensionImpact: With the proposed LLS reconstruction, an effective acceleration of 4 can be achieved for 3DspCSI without significant image artifacts. The improvement in temporal resolution helps to quantify the metabolite kinetics during a fixed imaging window with hyperpolarized 13C agents
Validation of CSI-SSFP with four markers (HDO, Glucose, Glx, and Lactate) for Deuterium Metabolic Imaging in the brain at 16.4T
Authors: Wiesner Hannes , Montrazi Elton , Wang Tao , Haney Kelsey , Zhu Xiao-Hong , Frydman Lucio , Chen Wei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: DMI's faces a poor SNR, and the detection of vital Glx/lactate metabolites in the brain tumor can be compromised. Goal(s): This research aims to determine whether the optimized CSI-SSFP imaging method is effective for detecting the four biomarkers (HDO, Glucose, Glx, and Lactate) with improved SNR compared to traditional CSI in rodent brains. Approach: The approach involves comparing DMI SNR using both traditional CSI and CSI-SSFP for monitoring and imaging the metabolism of injected [6,6’-2H2]-glucose in healthy mouse brains. Results: CSI-SSFP highlights substantial enhancement of 2-3 times in SNR for Glx and lactate. Impact: DMI is promising to assess the Warburg effect associated with cancer. The CSI-SSFP method provides several folds of SNR improvement, which is critical to improve sensitivity and resolution aiming for imaging intra-tumor heterogeneity and metabolic reprograming in brain tumors.
The SNR-Optimal Sodium MRI Encoding
Authors: Schulte Rolf , Vaeggemose Michael , Hansen Esben , Redda Mohsen , Kjaergaard Uffe , Laustsen Christoffer
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Motivation is to unleash the clinical potential of sodium (23Na) MRI. Goal(s): Main goal is to answer the key question about what the optimal sequence encoding is?Approach: 3D sodium sampling schemes were designed, implemented and compared in simulations and experimentally in the human brain and porcine abdomen. Results: (1) While encoding schemes differ in sampling efficiency, 15ms-Density-Adapted Radial is SNR optimal. (2) Clinically reasonable acquisition parameters are: total scan time ~10min., nominal matrix size=803, readout duration=15ms, TR=30ms, flip angle=60°. Impact: Sodium MRI holds great clinical potential for diagnosing and monitoring of stroke, cancer, etc. Devising and comparing the optimal acquisition will help the sodium field to improve SNR, hence facilitating clinical studies and adoption.
In vivo imaging of cerebral glucose metabolism of GLP-1R knockout mice with deuterium magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Li Hui , Fang Yujiao , Wang Da , Shi Bowen , Thompson Garth
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The regulation of brain glucose metabolism by GLP1-1R has not been fully verified. Goal(s): To explore feasibility of dynamic DMRS in mice brain, and the physiological role of GLP-1R in mouse brain glucose metabolism. Approach: we apply DMRS and FDG-PET to quantify dynamic cerebral glucose change, and combine with rs-fMRI to investigate changes in whole-brain functional connectivity. Results: GLP-1R KO mice exhibit impaired brain glucose metabolism and central nervous system intolerance to high doses of exogenous glucose. And the functional brain connectivity in GLP-1R KO mice was significantly lower than that in WT group.Impact: The decline in functional connectivity may hinder the coordination of work and information transmission between brain regions, thus inhibit normal metabolic regulatory processes. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the treatment strategies of disorders related to brain glucose metabolism
Longitudinal Study of the Tissue Sodium Concentration in the Human Liver via Quantitative 23Na MRI at 7T
Authors: Losch Jana , Nagel Armin , Scheipers Anna , Ladd Mark , Platt Tanja
Published: November 2024

Motivation: A scarcity in literature values for the tissue sodium concentration (TSC) in the healthy liver complicates the evaluation of the TSC in the diseased liver. Goal(s): This study aimed to establish TSC levels in one healthy liver on multiple days to explore potential concentration variations. Approach: The TSC was assessed using B1 field corrected and respiratory-sorted quantitative 23Na MRI. Results: The TSC values obtained in the healthy liver remained stable over a week and aligned with existing literature values. Impact: The study's finding of a consistent tissue sodium concentration (TSC) over time in one healthy liver is a valuable insight. It indicates that changes in liver TSC might be accurately linked to diseases, which could improve diagnosis of liver diseases.
Advancing Brain Tumour Sodium Imaging: Prospectively Accelerated eSISTINA and Compressed Sensing at 7T
Authors: Worthoff Wieland , Chen Qingping , Filss Christian , Abbas Zaheer , Langen Karl-Josef , Shah N. Jon
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Leverage cutting-edge enhanced simultaneous single and triple quantum filtered sodium imaging sodium imaging (eSISTINA) at 7T for unparalleled image precision, enhancing diagnostic efficacy and pushing the clinical frontier in brain tumour analysis. Goal(s): Optimise imaging and relaxometry performance of the eSISTINA sequence without compromising clinically applicability due to exessive measurement times. Approach: FLORET spiral trajectories coupled with pseudo-randomised undersampling and compressed sensing reconstruction yield significantly enhanced image quality and relaxometry performance of eSISTINA. Results: Compressed sensing reconstructed images of a brain tumour patient highlight substantial improvements in quality and aquicistion efficiency of eSISTINA at 7T, surpassing prior work at lower field strengths. Impact: This study demonstrates clearly that eSISTINA at ultra-high field strength is a promising diagnostic tool, offering invaluable insights for clinicians and researchers. Future patient cohort studies will undoubtedly reveal novel perspectives on brain tumours and metabolism.
Molecular Profiling Distinguishes HCC Metabotypes Identified on Hyperpolarized 1-13C Pyruvate Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Adebesin Bukola , Tischfield David , Islam Ariful , Sheehan Molly , Zavriyev Alexander , Bendre Aayush , Ackerman Daniel , Kadlecek Stephen , Gade Terence
Published: November 2024

Motivation: While hyperpolarized 1-13C Pyruvate Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy holds great promise for in vivo profiling of cellular metabolism, the molecular alterations underlying the observed metabolic phenotypes (metabotypes) remain understudied. Goal(s): We sought to characterize the molecular features contributing to the metabotypes identified on Hyperpolarized 1-13C Pyruvate MRS in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Approach: We integrated transcriptomic and proteomic profiling together with hyperpolarized 1-13C Pyruvate MRS of HCC patient-derived xenografts (PDX) that recapitulate the diversity of gene and protein expression observed in patients. Results: Our data suggest that hyperpolarized 1-13C Pyruvate MRS distinguishes HCC metabotypes based on MCT4 expression. Impact: By applying clinically relevant PDX models of HCC harboring naturally occurring variability in expression of metabolic enzymes and transporters, our data provide critical insights into the interpretation of hyperpolarized 1-13C Pyruvate MRS during clinical translation.
Spatially Constrained Estimation of Hyperpolarized 13C MRI Pharmacokinetic Rate Constant Maps using a U-Net
Authors: Sahin Sule , Wang Zhen , Larson Peder
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Current kPL fitting methods for Hyperpolarized [1-13C]Pyruvate MRI data are focused on voxel-wise models that do not consider spatial relationships. Incorporating spatial constraints may improve kPL accuracy for noisy data. Goal(s): The goal of this study was to use a U-net to fit kPL, the pyruvate-to-lactate conversion rate, where the convolutional layers impose spatial constraints. Approach: Simulated data of Hyperpolarized 13C-Pyruvate including perfusion and 13C-lactate conversion with random spatial augmentation and noise was used to train a U-net. Results: The U-net kPL estimation showed advantage over voxel-wise methods in the low SNR regime and performance was heavily influenced by the training data. Impact: Using a U-Net to estimate kPL maps for Hyperpolarized 13C-Pyruvate MRI data will aid the field in optimizing quantitative methods for future clinical use and serve as a proof-of-concept of using deep learning to estimate kinetic rates.
Comparison of Hyperpolarized 13C Pyruvate MRI and 1H MRI for Predicting Renal Tumor Aggressiveness
Authors: Liu Xiaoxi , Tang Shuyu , Sabb Allison , Cui Di , Olshen Adam , Gordon Jeremy , Meng Maxwell , Larson Peder , Wang Zhen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Current imaging methods have limitations in predicting localized renal tumor aggressiveness. Goal(s): Comparing the performance of predicting high grade ccRCCs, typically considering as aggressive RCCs, by different MR imaging methods. Approach: We compared the performance of hyperpolarized 13C pyruvate MRI and 1H MRI for predicting high-grade ccRCCs in 22 localized renal tumors. Results: Hyperpolarized 13C-labelled lactate-to-pyruvate ratio was significantly higher in high-grade ccRCCs compared to other renal tumor group(benign renal tumors, chromophobe RCCs, and low grade ccRCCs, P=0.003). Neither the percentage signal intensity change from contrast-enhanced MRI nor the apparent diffusion coefficient from diffusion-weighted MRI was able to differentiate between the two groups. Impact: Compared to 1H MRI, HP 13C MRI enables improved prediction of high-grade clear cell renal cell carcinomas.
Initial evaluation of relaxometry from Synthetic MRI in Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children with or without mental retardation
Authors: Wang changhao , Zhao xin , guo jinxia , Shen yanyong , Feng zhanqi , Yang zhexuan , Zhang xiaoxue
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To comprehend the brain microstructure of ASD patients, with or without Mental Retardation, and differentiate between them. Goal(s): This article aims to evaluate the differences of T1 and T2 relaxometry in disease related brain regions for children with ASD-MR , ASD group, and HC group, by using Synthetic MRI. Approach: MAGiC data were processed in SyMRI to create T1 and T2 relaxometry maps. Two pediatric radiologists outlined regions of interest on these maps using ITK-SNAP. Results: The T1 in left thalamus could be sensitive to reflect the microstructural change in patient groups and could be helpful indicator to differentiate the ASD and ASD-MR. Impact: T1 relaxometry derived from Synthetic MRI is potential for differentiation of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder with Mental retardation.
Diffusion MRI for the detection of hippocampal abnormalities in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Arezza Nico , Abbas Hana , Chadwick Caroline , Johnsrude Ingrid , Burneo Jorge , Khan Ali , Baron Corey
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Surgical outcomes for patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) are limited by the lack of imaging biomarkers that are sensitive to abnormalities. Goal(s): Our goal was to assess the sensitivity of diffusion MRI metrics to hippocampal abnormalities in patients with TLE. Approach: We measured mean diffusivity and microscopic fractional anisotropy in a specific hippocampal subfield in TLE patients and healthy volunteers, then used logistic regression to classify cohorts. Results: The diffusion model was better at distinguishing between patients and volunteers than typical measurements of hippocampal volume, assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves (area under curve 0.87 vs. 0.71-0.76). Impact: Advanced diffusion MRI metrics are sensitive to hippocampal abnormalities in temporal lobe epilepsy and may be able to improve surgical outcomes by helping clinicians locate the seizure focus for surgical excision.
Diffusion kurtosis imaging indicates abnormal white matter tract integrity in children with autism spectrum disorders.
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxue , Zhang Xiaoan , Zhao Xin , Yang Zhexuan , Feng Zhanqi
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Many children with autism spectrum disorders(ASD) do not exhibit typical clinical manifestations in their early years, making early diagnosis challenging. Goal(s): This study aimed to characterize changes in the brain microstructure of children with ASD through the use of white matter tract integrity (WMTI) metrics. Approach: Whole-brain and ROI-based methods were applied to analyze differences in DKI-based WMTI metrics between children with ASD and healthy children. Results: The results revealed that axonal water fraction (AWF) was significantly elevated in the bilateral cerebral hemispheres of children with ASD. Quantitative analysis of the corpus callosum demonstrated its ability to distinguish between ASD and healthy children. Impact: New WMTI metrics enhance our understanding of the underlying pathomechanisms of ASD and could serve as early biomarkers for microstructural changes in the brain of ASD.
Enhanced Lateralization of Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy through Vascular Territory Analysis: Insights from Arterial Spin Labeling MRI
Authors: Nazem-Zadeh Mohammad-Reza , Rahimzadeh Hossein , Kamkar Hadi , Hoseini-Tabatabaei Narges , Hashemi-Fesharaki Sohrab , Habibabadi Jafar Mehvari
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To enhance lateralization of drug-resistant mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE) for improved surgery decisions. Using arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI, this study explores vascular territories to differentiate left and right mTLE. Goal(s): To assess ASL MRI's potential in distinguishing between mTLE types by studying cerebral blood flow changes. Approach: It involves comparing mTLE groups to controls using ASL MRI and vascular territory analysis, identifying specific brain regions affecting lateralization. Results: They highlight vascular territory changes crucial in distinguishing mTLE types, emphasizing the clinical significance of ASL MRI. Impact: This research may significantly impact treatment decisions, benefitting individuals with challenging mTLE and guiding future epilepsy research.