bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MRI-based prediction of cerebral palsy risk in infants aged 6 months to 2 years: a deep learning approach
Authors: Jia Zhen , Huang Tingting , Li Man , Bian Yitong , Li Xianjun , Shi Feng , Yang Jian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Early prediction of cerebral palsy (CP) in infants plays a pivotal role in facilitating tailored rehabilitation treatment. Goal(s): We hope to achieve early prediction of CP in infants aged 6 months to 2 years old based on MRI and deep learning technology. Approach: We introduce a novel neural network model, known as the "Cerebral Palsy Brain Constraint Residual Network" (CPBC-Resnet), for the automatic prediction of CP risk based on MRI data. Results: The CPBC-Resnet model exhibits an impressive receiver operating characteristic area under the curve (AUC) of 0.9521, achieving a sensitivity of 94.12% and a specificity of 100%. Impact: This study streamlines cerebral palsy (CP) imaging diagnostics, reducing physician training costs, and expanding the reach of CP diagnostic technology. It promotes early CP diagnosis and intervention, particularly in areas with underdeveloped medical standards, contributing to overall child health improvement.
Overcoming the missing data challenge in clinical imaging using CycleGAN based on brain MRI in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Shahrokhi Shayan , Tariq Rehman , Oladosu Olayinka , Zhang Yunyan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Clinical MRI datasets are not always comprehensive or consistent, limiting their use for secondary analysis. Goal(s): Investigating the suitability of a deep learning model named CycleGAN, with optional spectral normalization, for dealing with the missing sequence problems in clinical imaging as seen in multiple sclerosis (MS). Approach: Using standard brain MRI of 104 MS people, we implemented 2 CycleGAN models, one with and one without spectral normalization to compare. Results: CycleGAN performed competitively in image transformation between T1-weighted and T2-weighted images. Adding spectral normalization appears to improve performance, especially when the quality of training scans is inconsistent. Impact: CycleGAN-based model has the potential to generate non-acquired images not always needed in standard clinical imaging, as seen in brain MRI in MS, where the resulting images can help promote various secondary analysis studies including machine learning.
Non-Invasive Perfusion MR Imaging of the Human Brain via Breath-Holding
Authors: Schulman Jacob , Kashyap Sriranga , Kim Seong-Gi , Uludag Kamil
Published: November 2024

Motivation: DSC is the leading methodology for MR-based perfusion imaging. However, the technique's reliance on invasive gadolinium injections poses a major limitation. Goal(s): Can breath-holding induce perfusion contrast that is exploitable using DSC MRI?Approach: Ten healthy subjects underwent MRI at both 3T and 7T, while performing eight 16 s breath-holds. Breath-hold-induced signal changes were fed into a DSC MRI analysis pipeline, and perfusion was quantified. Results: Calculated cerebral perfusion values were within the physiological range of literature values; the breath-hold task yielded significantly higher contrast-to-noise and GM-to-WM contrast with higher field strength and increased scan time, although this plateaued at roughly 6 min. Impact: For the first time, we show that DSC-MRI using breath-holding allows for the quantification of perfusion parameters. This may have broad implications for neurovascular disease, either circumventing the need for invasive gadolinium injections or shedding additional light into pathology.
Hybrid phase-sensitive 4D MRA and perfusion imaging using dynamic arterial spin labeling with stack-of-stars golden-angle radial acquisition
Authors: Zhao Tianrui , Yan Lirong
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Comprehensively characterizing cerebrovascular events including dynamic blood flow patterns and downstream perfusion is important in clinical diagnosis of cerebrovascular disorders. Goal(s): To develop a time-efficient phase-sensitive ASL technique (PS-ASL) that provides high-quality time-resolved 4D-MRA and perfusion imaging within single scan. Approach: PS-ASL sequence was designed by combining pCASL and PASL preparations with stack-of-stars golden-angle radial acquisition and a self-constraint low-rank subspace reconstruction. The label and control pulse modules alternated between pCASL and PASL preparations in each TR. Phase-sensitive subtraction between control and label yields 4D-MRA from PASL and perfusion from pCASL. Results: Both dynamic 4D-MRA and perfusion maps were successfully obtained by PS-ASL. Impact: The developed PS-ASL technique could be a potential powerful imaging tool in clinical applications, which provides detailed characterization of blood flow from both arterial and capillary beds in a single sequence.
Assessing cerebral perfusion: analysis of the BOLD response to a hypoxia-induced step change in deoxyhemoglobin
Authors: Duffin James , Sayin Ece Su , Sobczyk Olivia , Poublanc Julien , Mikulis David , Fisher Joseph
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Provide direct measurements of cerebral perfusion metrics, relative cerebral blood flow and volume, and mean transit time. Goal(s): Generate a known step susceptibility contrast input rather than requiring back calculation of an arterial input function Approach: We used a step reoxygenation of previously deoxygenated lung alveoli to induce a step increase in oxyhemoglobin in arterial blood and analyzed the T2*-weighted signal for each voxel. Perfusion metrics from step deoxyhemoglobin changes were compared to those from conventional analysis using a gadolinium contrast agent in healthy volunteers. Results: The perfusion metrics from the step deoxyhemoglobin method were similar to those from Gadolinium injection. Impact: Perfusion metrics can be measured directly from a non-invasive test using a step decrease in deoxyhemoglobin generated by instantaneous reoxygenation from a brief hypoxia. They correspond to those calculated indirectly from an intravenously injected Gadolinium contrast agent involving complex analysis.
Feasibility and Sensitivity of TRUST Measurements in the Upper Arm
Authors: Fernandes Diogo , Baas Koen , Caan Matthan , Biemond Bart , Nederveen Aart
Published: November 2024

Motivation: T2-relaxation-under-spin-tagging(TRUST) is a non-invasive MRI technique to estimate blood oxygenation in the superior sagittal sinus from a T2 decay fit. Goal(s): The calibration curve to convert T2 into oxygenation has been derived with ex-vivo experiments for healthy volunteers and patients with specific types of sickle cell disease. Approach: Validation of these calibration curves is difficult because blood cannot be drawn from the superior sagittal sinus itself, hampering implementation of the technique in other patient groups. Results: Here, TRUST was adapted and optimized for the arm so that its measurements of venous oxygenation can be directly compared with venipunctures from the cephalic vein. Impact: The TRUST-sequence was optimized for non-invasive T2-measurement in the upper arm veins. A posteriori correlation with blood properties returns a venous oxygenation mapping. This may confirm the currently used calibration curve and facilitate obtaining accurate calibration curves for specific diseases.
Extracting Cerebral Perfusion Signal from BOLD fMRI via Deep Learning
Authors: Li Yiran , Wang Ze
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cerebral blood flow (CBF) is a fundamental physiological measure indicating regional brain function and vascular conditions via arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion MRI, but ASL sequences is limited. Goal(s): Blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) fMRI is known to be a function of CBF and other physiological sources. We try to extract CBF information from BOLD signal. Approach: We proposed a convolutional neural network to extract CBF from BOLD fMRI signal. Results: We confirmed the possibility of using supervised deep learning model to extract CBF from BOLD fMRI from independent sequences. Impact: Deep learning enables the estimation of CBF signal directly from the prevalent BOLD fMRI images, offering an alternative to the ASL sequence that is not universally available across research facilities.
Reproducibility assessment of multiparametric non-contrast cardiac MRI including ASL, T1 and T2 mapping in healthy controls
Authors: Solis-Barquero Sergio , Aramendia-Vidaurreta Veronica , Ezponda Ana , Vidorreta Marta , Pascual Marina , Bastarrika Gorka , Fernandez-Seara Maria
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Contrast-agent free techniques are needed in cardiac MRI studies for assessment of patients with coronary artery disease but with contraindications to gadolinium contrast-agents, such as kidney disease. Goal(s): The aim of this work was to assess the intra and intersession reproducibility of a multiparametric protocol including three non-contrast techniques (ASL, native T1 and T2 mapping) in healthy controls with a wide age range to eventually test the technique in clinical patients. Approach: Multiparametric non-contrast cardiac MRI in ten healthy controls at 1.5T. Results: This protocol can offer contrast free alternative for perfusion quantification, T1 and T2 mapping, with good intra and intersession reproducibility. Impact: Multiparametric cardiac MRI with arterial spin labelling (ASL) perfusion, T1 and T2 mapping could offer a contrast-agent free alternative for patients with kidney disease, or other contraindication to gadolinium agents, with good intra and intersession reproducibility.
Decreased water exchange rate across blood-brain barrier 6-12 months after admission for COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Robertson Frances , Hoare Jacqueline , Kadenge Betty , Heany Sarah , Meintjes Ernesta
Published: November 2024

Motivation: A proportion of patients admitted to hospital with SARS-CoV-2 infection have cognitive deficits that persist for several months. However, the mechanisms behind persistent neurological symptoms are unclear. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is a possible underlying cause. Goal(s): We aimed to investigate BBB permeability in participants previously admitted to hospital with SARS-CoV-2 infection (post-acute COVID-19). Approach: We used a diffusion-prepared pseudo-continuous arterial spin labelling (DP-pCASL) to quantify water exchange rate in post-acute COVID-19 participants and controls. Results: Post-acute COVID-19 participants demonstrated lower whole brain water exchange rates across the BBB than controls, but no differences in arterial transit time or cerebral blood flow. Impact: This is the first study to report reduced water exchange across the blood brain barrier in the context of post-acute infection with SARS-CoV-2. This may implicate glymphatic system dysfunction as a mechanism for neurological symptoms associated with long COVID-19.
Direct Revascularization Improves Vascular Hemodynamics in Pediatric Moyamoya Patients
Authors: Zhao Moss , Tong Elizabeth , Moseley Michael , Zaharchuk Greg , Steinberg Gary
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Moyamoya is a progressive cerebrovascular disorder affecting hemodynamics and the disease often begins during childhood. However, the non-invasive assessments of hemodynamics in pediatric Moyamoya patients remain an open question. Goal(s): Investigate the CBF change before and after revascularization in pediatric Moyamoya patients. Approach: CBF in 42 patients was measured using arterial spin labeling on a 3T MRI 1 week before and within 2 weeks after revascularization. CBF in regions affected by vasculopathy was compared before and after revascularization. Results: CBF in regions affected by vasculopathy increased significantly after revascularization. Impact: ASL can be utilized to evaluate CBF in pediatric Moyamoya patients before and after direct revascularization.
Measuring pulse-wave velocity in the healthy human brain using dynamic inflow magnitude contrast (DIMAC) MRI
Authors: Driver Ian , Wright Melissa , Crofts Andrew , Davies Saajan , Chandler Hannah , Murphy Kevin
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Arterial stiffness, a key marker of cardiovascular health, can be monitored by measuring pulse-wave velocity. However, current methods do not extend into the brain due to an inability to resolve the pulse waveform on a beat-to-beat basis for intracranial arteries. Goal(s): Our goal is to demonstrate the concept of measuring intracranial pulse-wave velocity using dynamic inflow magnitude contrast (DIMAC) MRI. Approach: We measured intracranial pulse-wave velocity by measuring the pulse-wave delay between internal carotid and middle cerebral arteries. Results: The arterial pulse-wave delay between the internal carotid artery and the middle cerebral artery was 29±14ms, corresponding to a pulse-wave velocity of 6.8±2.2m/s. Impact: These results are the first stage in establishing pulse-wave velocity as a new non-invasive MRI biomarker for cerebrovascular health, providing a novel tool to investigate the role of arterial stiffness in healthy ageing and brain pathology.
Development and in-vivo testing of an MR-compatible biofeedback device for MR-guided radiotherapy simulation and treatment
Authors: Salzillo Travis , Ding Yao , Wang Jihong
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Biofeedback during radiotherapy simulation and treatment on conventional linacs improves the accuracy and reproducibility of patient alignment, especially those using breath-hold. However, commercial devices cannot operate in MR environments. Goal(s): The goal of this study was to develop an MR-compatible biofeedback device and test its utility in volunteer studies. Approach: The device consists of a single-board computer and addressable LED strip, which was automatically controlled by tracking anatomic motion in CINE MR images. Results: Initial volunteer studies using the device in an MR linac demonstrated that biofeedback-guided breath-hold resulted in more accurate and consistent target alignment compared to self-guided breath-hold. Impact: MR-compatible biofeedback devices can facilitate and improve breath-hold techniques for MR-guided radiotherapy simulation and treatment. Furthermore, incorporation of CINE MR images to measure changes in internal anatomy improves target alignment relative to existing devices that use surface imaging.
The hierarchy of hazard controls in MR safety practice
Authors: Levesque Ives , McNabb Evan
Published: November 2024

Motivation: MR safety guidance formulated by experts from the MR community build upon a combination of experience and technical expertise. MR safety guidance may benefit from assessment based on general workplace safety practices. Goal(s): To critically assess MR safety guidance and practices using the hierarchy of hazard controls. Approach: MR safety practices were scored using a 5-point scale derived from the hierarchy of hazard controls, in several areas of risk for MR personnel, patients, and non-MR personnel. Results: Hazard controls for non-MR personnel had consistently high effectiveness scores, while those for for MR personnel and patients had moderate effectiveness scores, with a greater range. Impact: The analysis presented in this work could serve as a tool to analyse choices made in the deployment of safety measures, to motivate decision- or policy-making, or as a tool for assessment of MR safety programs.
Pushing the image quality by integrating FatNav and pTx Universal Pulses in MPRAGE and MP2RAGE sequences at 7T
Authors: Mauconduit Franck , Diraison Thomas , Massire Aurelien , Gras Vincent , Vignaud Alexandre , Gallichan Daniel , Boulant Nicolas
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Ultra-high field MRI of the brain suffers from an increased B1+ inhomogeneity as well as involuntary motion artifacts when very high spatial resolution is targeted. Goal(s): Integration of a FatNav technique into pTx Universal Pulse sequences would be beneficial to reach the best image quality at very high resolution. Approach: An MP(2)RAGE sequence using GRAPE pTx universal pulses was modified to integrate a FatNav module. High-resolution protocols were acquired in vivo on the brain. Results: Very high-quality images were obtained throughout the brain and cerebellum thanks to FatNav motion correction and pTx Universal Pulses. Impact: The ultra-high field community targetting high-resolution protocols on the whole brain would benefit from a FatNav-enabled PASTEUR package to bring robust protocols against B1+ inhomogeneities and involuntary motion of the head.
4D flow CMR-derived left ventricular hemodynamic indicators for evaluating heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients
Authors: Wang Rui , Tao Xinyan , Lian Jianxiu , Xu Lei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Heart failure is a clinical syndrome in which the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, and Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF) with the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 40% serve as high morbidity and mortality. Goal(s): The aim of this study is to investigate the hemodynamic environment in left ventricle of different phases. Approach: 4D flow technology could offer non-invasive method for quantifying the alternatives of intracardiac blood flow components in HFrEF with and without MACE. Results: Results showed reduced DF-KEiESV, DEF-KEiESV, higher RVo and peak E-wave RVo-KEiEDV were confirmed in MACE+ group when compared with MACE- group. Impact: The hemodynamic analysis in HFrEF when compared patients with and without MACE illustrated significant alternative of intracardiac blood flow components by using 4D flow technology, which could offer valuable insight for further assessment and treatment planning.
Diffusion-weighted imaging of reperfused acute myocardial infarction: effect of intravenous gadolinium-based contrast agent administration
Authors: Han Shuguang , Wang Dan , Wang Jiali , Han Lu , Wu Peng , Cheng Yongjun , Hu Chunfeng , Xu Kai
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Cardiac diffusion-weighted(DW)imaging has proven to be an effective approach to explore ischemia reperfusion myocardium damage and inflammation induced by treatment after reperfusion. Goal(s): The objective of this study was to investigate whether contrast agent (CA) administration significantly affects DWI in the evaluation of reperfused acute myocardial infarction. Approach: The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values,signal intensity(SI) and contrast-to-noise ratio(CNR) pre- and post-contrast were measured in the intramyocardial hemorrhage (IMH),edema area and remote regions, respectively. Results: The ADC values in IMH and edema area were not significantly changed between pre- and post-contrast (P>0.05), while the SI of remote myocardium was inhibited and CNRs were reduced. Impact: To better assess ischemia reperfusion myocardium damage, DWI is recommended to perform as much as possible before the gadolinium-based contrast agent administration.
The relation between sleep indices and indices for brain interstitial fluid dynamics by MRI and the effects of orexin antagonists: a FLUID study.
Authors: Taoka Toshiaki , Iwamoto Kunihiro , Miyata Seiko , Okada Ippei , Ito Rintaro , Nakamichi Rei , Nakane Toshiki , Ichikawa Kazushige , Kan Hirohito , Kamagata Koji , Kikuta Junko , Aoki Shigeki , Fujimoto Akihiro , Kogo Yuki , Ichinose Nobuyasu , Naganawa Shinji , Ozaki Norio
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The motivation is to investigate the relationship between sleep and interstitial fluid dynamics influenced by the administration of lemborexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist. Goal(s): The goal is to identify changes in indices of interstitial fluid dynamics related to sleep before and after the administration of lemborexant. Approach: ALPS-index, Ktrans by DSC method, and choroid plexus volume were assessed as indicators of interstitial fluid dynamics. Results: The sleep indexes on a night were found to correlate with the ALPS-index measured in the evening before that night's sleep. In multiple regression analysis, the ALPS-index was lower when sleep parameters were poor at baseline. Impact: The sleep indexes on a night were found to correlate with the ALPS-index measured the evening before. The evaluation of the ALPS-index before and after lemborexant administration revealed that the baseline sleep status played a role in improving the index.
Altered blood pulsatility & small vessel disease marker associations in obstructive sleep apnoea post-continuous positive airway pressure
Authors: Stringer Michael , Hill Lizzie , Morgan Alasdair , Garcia Dany Jaime , Ballerini Lucia , Hewins Will , Brown Rosalind , Coello Roberto Duarte , Macintosh Bradley , Bernal Jose , Lim Andrew , Sommer Rosa , Hernandez Maria Valdes , Chappell Francesca , Black Sandra , Marshall Ian , Doubal Fergus , Riha Renata , Thrippleton Michael , Wardlaw Joanna
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Sleep affects vascular health and brain waste clearance. Sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), are associated with higher small vessel disease (SVD) burden increasing stroke/dementia risk. OSA treatment relies on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Goal(s): We aimed to assess the effect of CPAP on MRI-based blood pulsatility index (PI) measures and associations with SVD burden. Approach: We assessed arterial/venous PI using phase-contrast MRI in patients with moderate/severe OSA before and after 4 months CPAP. Results: Arterial PI tended lower post-CPAP, consistent with better vascular health. Post-CPAP patients with higher venous PI had less severe basal ganglia perivascular space burden. Impact: Few studies have investigated MRI-based blood pulsatility index (PI) in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). We found effective treatment may improve brain vascular health, altering blood PI. Higher venous PI post-treatment may link to brain waste clearance, but requires further study.
Glymphatic dysfunction in patients with Chronic kidney disease is associated with cognitive decline
Authors: Song Lijun , Yang Wenbo , Li Mingan , Xu Boyan , Yang Zhenghan , Wang Hao , Wang Zhen-chang
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The relationship between CSF inflow, which is an essential physiological activity of the glymphatic system, and cognitive decline in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unclear. Goal(s): Our goal was to explore the patterns of CSF inflow changes in patients with CKD and its relationship with cognitive decline. Approach: The CSF in the the subarachnoid space along the middle cerebral were analyzed with ultra-long echo time and low-b diffusion tensor imaging. Results: Disturbed CSF inflow patterns is associated with cognitive decline in patients with CKD. Impact: A novel approach to measure the CSF inflow of the glymphatic system exhibits the potential for detecting brain glymphatic dysfunction in patients with CKD, which may be one of the pathogenic mechanisms of cognitive decline.
Intraoperative 3T MRI as navigator for laser interstitial thermal therapy in paediatric epilepsy and tumour surgery
Authors: Hangel Gilbert , Tomschik Matthias , Herta Johannes , Wais Jonathan , Winter Fabian , Kasprian Gregor , Feucht Martha , Dorfer Christian , Rössler Karl
Published: November 2024

Motivation: MR-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) uses laser fibres to ablate lesions under MR-thermometry monitoring. Distance between OR and MRI complicates this procedure, but previous generations of intraoperative MRIs were limited to fields up to 1.5T. Goal(s): We investigated a dual-room setup for intraoperative 3T MRI as navigation/monitoring for LITT. Approach: In eleven paediatric patients, we demonstrated this setup as navigation/monitoring for LITT. Results: We quantified achievable time and precision parameters, e.g., a mean total surgery time of 4.9 hours. Impact: Minimised surgery time and complications as well as improved treatment monitoring for laser interstitial thermal therapy make dual-room intraoperative 3T MRIs beneficial for paediatric patients.
Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging to visualize ultrasound wave propagation through a medium
Authors: Passe-Carlus Paul-Emile , Cavinatto Davi , Reed Carson , Allen Elizabeth , Allen Steven P
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Lack of a feedback mechanism renders focused ultrasound neuromodulation results inconsistent and difficult to reproduce. Goal(s): This study hypothesis that electromagnets coupled with MRI can quantify low pressure acoustic fields in a gel sample. Approach: We constructed a custom resonant electromagnet coil to encode propagating acoustic waves into the complex phase of MR images. Results: Acoustic propagation appeared in the phase patterns of MR images, they differed from hydrophone measurements. The speed of sound was correct, but the measured pressure amplitude was different. Impact: This is the first acquisition of acoustic waves using MRI with a human compatible coil.
Predicting antiseizure medication treatment outcome using AI and Structural MRI
Authors: Nazem-Zadeh Mohammad-Reza , Thom Daniel , Mishra Debabrata , Nguyen Shani , Chen Zhibin , Chang Richard , Sinclair Ben , Law Meng , Kwan Patrick
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Implementation of AI-driven precision medicine and finding the most effective Antiseizure Medications. Goal(s): To predict outcomes of drug interventions in epilepsy patients and categorize them into distinct seizure outcome groups. Approach: The research employs both patient characteristic, clinical, and MRI features going throguh a feature selection step followed by binary classification using Support Vector Machine, Naïve Bayes, Decision Tree, and Ridge Regression. Results: Ridge regression combined with genetic algorithm outperformed the others, achieving an accuracy of 0.77 and AUC (Area Under the Curve) of 0.80 in predicting seizure outcome. This success was attained using a total of 18 MRI features and 10 ASMs. Impact: Our model may help selection of the most effective ASM for individual patients. This may reduce the need for consecutive drug trials involving ineffective medications, thereby alleviating associated burdens.
In-vivo 7T body MRI with complete abdominal coverage using pTx and a 32-Tx-channel whole-body RF antenna array
Authors: Grimm Johannes , Aigner Christoph , Schorling Constantin , Dietrich Sebastian , Orzada Stephan , Fiedler Thomas , Ladd Mark , Schmitter Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Flip angle variations or voids are problematic at 7T, especially when large fields of excitation are needed, such as for the entire abdomen. Goal(s): To homogeneously excite the whole abdomen using dynamic pTx and to investigate the minimal number of kT-points necessary. Approach: Dynamic pTx is applied in the abdomen using a 32-Tx-channel whole-body array and free-breathing relative B1+ mapping. Results: The preliminary data indicates that exciting the whole abdomen is feasible and that dynamic pTx yields sufficient FA homogeneity in all subjects. Impact: The preliminary data indicates that exciting the whole abdomen is feasible and that dynamic pTx yields sufficient FA homogeneity in all subjects.
A comparison of various custom-built pTx RF arrays for body imaging at 7T with regard to their transmit efficiency
Authors: Grimm Johannes , Kraff Oliver , May Markus , Lutz Max , Orzada Stephan , Quick Harald , Ladd Mark , Schmitter Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Motivation: A standardized pTx body array would be highly beneficial for 7T, especially as a step toward achieving an extension of the existing 7T CE label/FDA clearance to whole-body MRI. Goal(s): To compare the transmit performance (Tx efficiency/coverage) of 5 different existing body coils containing different element types. Approach: Measure relative and absolute B1+ maps and evaluate them regarding the Tx efficiency and Tx heat-foot coverage. Results: The B1+ efficiency was similar for all local coil concepts with some differences in heat-foot excitation coverage. The remote array achieved the largest heat-foot excitation coverage and can achieve similarly high flip angles as the local arrays. Impact: B1+ efficiency was similar for all local coil concepts with some differences in excitation coverage. The remote array achieved the largest excitation coverage and can achieve similarly high flip angles as the local arrays if sufficient transmit power is available.
Single port quadrature polarization of two birdcage coils for small animal imaging
Authors: Hernandez Daniel , Lee Jae Jun , Kim Sang-Woo , Nam Taewoo , Lee Eunwoo , Kim Kyoung-Nam
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The development of hardware dedicated to pre-clinical applications that can produce high quality images for small animal MRI systems with limited transmission channels. Goal(s): a double birdcage coil that can deliver uniform field for multiple rats, while having only one transmission channel. Approach: Employing electromagnetic simulations, we devised a geometric arrangement comprising two birdcage coils with a leg distribution rotated relative to each other. This configuration enables the generation of uniform, high-intensity circularly polarized fields. Results: Uniform magnetic fields were acquired with double birdcage coil with a single excitation port. These results also showed uniform field and with similar intensity between two rats. Impact: By employing double birdcage coils with rotated leg distributions, we achieve the generation of uniform and strong circularly polarized magnetic fields. This breakthrough offers significant advancements in pre-clinical applications and has the potential to improve research in small animal MRI.
Motion-corrected supine breast MRI using a flexible coil vest and beat pilot tones – preliminary results
Authors: Nohava Lena , Isaieva Karyna , Frass-Kriegl Roberta , Rapp Bastian , Czerny Raphaela , Soanca Onisim , Felblinger Jacques , Odille Freddy , Laistler Elmar
Published: November 2024

Motivation: This study addresses the challenge of motion artifacts in free-breathing supine breast MRI using a flexible RF coil, aiming to improve image quality and patient comfort. Goal(s): The primary goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of motion correction using beat pilot tones (BPT) in combination with the GRICS algorithm, requiring no additional on-patient hardware. Approach: A volunteer underwent supine breast MRI performing various breathing patterns, while BPT motion signals were extracted. The GRICS algorithm was used for retrospective motion correction. Results: Motion artifacts were effectively reduced for flat abdominal and normal thoracic breathing. However, heavy thoracic breathing artifacts were insufficiently reduced. Impact: Motion-corrected supine breast MRI with a flexible coil promises improved diagnostic image quality and increased patient comfort. Further optimization of acquisition and motion-correction techniques for clinical supine breast MRI will ultimately aid in early disease detection and management.
Utilizing DLP 3D Printing for MRI-Visible Phantoms in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Wang Yanlu
Published: November 2024

Motivation: This study is motivated by the authors to easily, and cheaply, manufacture phantoms and other accessories that is inherently dimensionally accurate, MRI compatible, and visible in MRI images. Goal(s): The goal of the study is to develop a manufacturing method to create a MRI-visible localization grid for MR-guided breast biopsies. Approach: By hollowing out the part without inclusions of any drainage holes, we can ensure liquid resin is trapped inside the part during the printing process. Results: The finished part is shown to be inherently MRI visible as demonstrated on both T1- and T2-weighted images from our MRI biopsy protocol. Impact: This approach offers an efficient and cost-effective solution for creating MRI-visible objects with high spatial accuracy, which is useful for producing phantoms and other MRI compatible accessories.
Elucidation of whole-brain network in operant training using functional connectivity and immediate gene expression
Authors: Kasahara Kazumi , Hikishima Keigo , Nakata Mariko , Tsurugizawa Tomokazu , Higo Noriyuki , Doya Kenji
Published: November 2024

Motivation: It is unclear how and what cellular-level changes cause changes in the whole-brain network in operant training. Goal(s): To investigate the functional network changes and underlying cellular processes involved in operant learning. Approach: We utilized resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) and whole-brain immunohistochemical analysis of early growth response 1 (EGR1) in mice during the early and late stages of training. Results: Increased functional connectivity and EGR1 regional correlations were observed between the limbic and thalamus or auditory cortex early, and between motor and somatosensory cortex and striatum in the late stage. Impact: Our study is an initial effort to create a new experimental approach that combines rsfMRI and immunohistochemistry to connect large-scale and small-scale mechanisms of learning.
Deep-learning-based flow-artifact correction for multi-shot multiple overlapping-echo detachment imaging (msh-MOLED)
Authors: Lin Ying , Yang Qizhi , Ye Ming , Bao Jianfeng , Chen Zhong , Lin Liangjie , Cai Congbo , Cai Shuhui
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Multi-shot overlapping-echo detachment imaging (msh-MOLED), a msh-EPI-based quantitative MR sequence, quantifies tissue T2 rapidly without the need of separately acquiring images with different TEs, but its results could be contaminated by flow-induced inter-shot phase variations. Goal(s): To implement an instantaneous referenceless flow-artifact correction for msh-MOLED. Approach: Flow-related features were added to the training data, and the trained network fulfilled T2 mapping free from flow artifacts without dear computational costs or additional reference data. Results: After correction, the Pearson’s correlation coefficient/mean absolute error was changed from 0.6332/6.5328 (uncorrected) to 0.8808/2.7623 (corrected). Impact: The proposed correction could be used to retain the mapping accuracy of msh-MOLED regardless of shot numbers, or to refine the reference data in high-spatial-resolution diffusion mapping potentially.
Automated analysis of the UK Biobank MRI data for the assessment of multi-organ involvement in disease
Authors: Cox Eleanor , Gong Zhendi , Craig Martin , Mohammadi-Nejad Ali-Reza , Aithal Guruprasad , Stewart Iain , Wain Louise , Jenkins Gisli , Auer Dorothee , Sotiropoulos Stamatios , Chen Xin , Francis Susan , Consortium The DEMISTIFI
Published: November 2024

Motivation: To understand organ changes in multimorbidity (fibrosis in two or more organs). Goal(s): To use the MRI data in the UK Biobank (UKBB) to study multi-organ changes. Approach: An automated pipeline to analyse the UKBB kidney MRI data, including deep learning for kidney cortex and medulla segmentation from T1 maps, alongside segmentation of the liver, spleen and pancreas to assess their T1. Analysis of 500 healthy volunteers and 235 participants with kidney, pancreas and liver disease. Results: Multi-organ changes in addition to the primary diseased organ. For example, elevation in cortical T1 in kidney disease together with increased pancreatic and liver T1. Impact: The automated multi-organ analysis of abdominal MRI data to study multi-organ fibrosis. In the future, this will allow investigations related to the epidemiology, risk factors (genetic and environmental) and natural history of fibrotic multimorbidity.
Deep Learning Based Rectal Tumor Localization and Segmentation on Multi-parametric MRI
Authors: Zhang Yang , Shi Liming , Sun Xiaonan , Yue Ning , Su Min-Ying , Nie Ke
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The study is motivated by need to improve rectal cancer treatment planning through deep-learning-based analysis of multiparametric MRI, replacing inconsistent and labor-intensive manual tumor delineation. Goal(s): The study aims to develop a deep-learning algorithm for automated rectal cancer segmentation in MRI images to improve treatment response predictions. Approach: A two-tiered U-net architecture with attention gates, optimized through cross-validation, was applied to multi-parametric MRI data from 198 patients. Results: This approach outperformed existing models, with the highest accuracy achieved by combining different MRI sequences. The results indicate that incorporating functional MRI data with anatomical imaging significantly enhances tumor delineation, potentially informing personalized treatment strategies. Impact: This deep-learning model significantly improves rectal cancer MRI segmentation, offering a path to more accurate and personalized treatment strategies, potentially leading to better patient outcomes and streamlined workflows in oncological imaging and radiation therapy planning.
LiverMap®: the choice for screening the onset and progression of chronic liver conditions
Authors: Chua-anusorn Wanida , Filho Hilton Leao , Clark Paul
Published: November 2024

Motivation: MRI methods for screening onset of fatty liver disease are lacking owing to the inability to isolate the earliest grades of inflammation, ballooning and fibrosis. Goal(s): To demonstrate the validity and reproducibility of liver multi-component relaxometry (LiverMap®) in screening onset of liver pathologies at both 1.5T and 3.0T. Approach: Patient cohorts comprised a validation cohort with 106 biopsy-proven MASLD patients and 16 healthy volunteers, and a reproducibility cohort of 30 volunteers with and without MASLD. Results: LiverMap® distinguished the onset of liver pathologies with AUROCs above 0.94, a repeatability CoV of 1.7%, and a reproducibility CoV of 3.5%. Impact: LiverMap® is a new approach to screen and monitor progression of chronic liver conditions in ~10 minutes scan time. In metabolic associated steatohepatitis, LiverMap® reliably distinguishes the onset of five key liver pathologies - fat, iron, inflammation, ballooning and fibrosis.
Increased Intracortical T1w/T2w Ratio in Patients with Chronic Schizophrenia
Authors: Schur Gayatri , Wang Ruoyu , Flaherty Ryn , Sui Yu , Lazar Mariana
Published: November 2024

Motivation: While dysmyelination is known to occur in white matter in schizophrenia, studies characterizing intracortical myelin in vivo are limited. Goal(s): Our goal was to quantify intracortical myelin in chronic schizophrenia (SZ) vs. healthy controls (HC), and to correlate myelination with volumetric changes. Approach: We used T1w/T2w ratio to map cortical myelin. Results: We found decreased cortical volume but increased T1w/T2w ratio in frontal and temporal regions in SZ vs. HC. Apart from potentially increased ectopic myelin content, increased T1w/T2w in patients may also reflect iron deposition or presence of glial cells which contain high intracellular iron. Impact: Characterizing intracortical myelin will help refine the dysmyelination hypothesis of schizophrenia. Our results in a chronic schizophrenia group support this hypothesis and further suggest potential abnormalities in cortical iron and glial cells.
Improved depiction of habenula with optimized high-resolution STAGE
Authors: Bian Bingyang , Zhang Lei , Haacke E. Mark , Hou Lin , Jiang Yueluan , Li Tao
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The visualization and identification of humans habenula is particularly challenging in vivo MR imaging due to its subcortical location and small sizeGoal(s): To achieve visualization and quantitative analysis of the habenulaApproach: In this work we performed a high-resolution strategically acquired gradient echo protocol at 3T for visualization habenulaResults: We achieved high-definition visualization of habenula, and provided a quantitative multi-parametric characterization of the habenula microstructure in vivoImpact: We performed an optimized high-resolution sequence, which used to guide future studies optimizing the visualization of habenula. The standardized nature of quantitative MR measurements also provide a baseline from a healthy cohort against which to assess pathological differences.
Motor inhibition in functional paralysis – a task-based fMRI study
Authors: Vallesi Vanessa , Hurni Elia , Sritharan Jothini , Sailer Anke Scheel , Hoogland Inge Eriks , Gegusch Michaela , Slotboom Johannes , Verma Rajeev , Zito Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Motivation: In functional neurological disorders (FND), symptoms (including paralysis) occur despite intact anatomical pathways. The pathophysiology of FND is poorly understood, making diagnosis, treatment and prognosis uncertain. Goal(s): Assuming that higher cognitive functions may play a role in the manifestation of symptoms, this study investigates motor inhibition in FND. Approach: Using task-based fMRI, this observational study investigates the blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) response of the brain during a motor inhibition task. Results: Preliminary results indicate reduced behavioral performance and lower BOLD activity in the left caudate nucleus, a key node for motor inhibition, suggesting a disrupted neural pathway in FND. Impact: Our task-based fMRI results suggest impaired motor inhibition in functional neurological disorders and open new avenues for further investigation on its role in symptom production and potential treatment options.
Association of peripheral inflammation with disrupted brain functional network topology in bipolar disorder
Authors: Tang Guixian , Chen Guanmao , Cui Wei , Wang Ying
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Increasing evidences show that inflammation might be involved in bipolar disorder (BD), but the association between abnormal brain function and inflammation in BD patients is still unclear. Goal(s): In this study, we tried to explore the disrupted brain functional network topology, peripheral cytokines and their correlations to demonstrate the role of inflammation in brain functional network topology in BD. Approach: Graph theory analysis. Results: The current study demonstrated disrupted topological organization in the whole brain and regional connectivity was associated with inflammatory cytokines of the IL-4, IL-8 and IL-10 levels in BD. Impact: Our study provided preliminary evidence of the association between disrupted brain functional network topology and neuroinflammation in BD.
Bone Imaging of the Knee Using delta UTE (ΔUTE) and Field Echo Imaging
Authors: Bae Won , Malis Vadim , Yamashita Yuichi , Mesa Anya , Vucevic Diana , Miyazaki Mitsue
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Bony structures of the human knee play import roles in the stability and normal function and show alterations in morphology with diseases such as osteoarthritis. Goal(s): Advance MR imaging of the bone. Approach: Three techniques utilizing delta ultrashort echo time (UTE), field echo (FE), and FE with deep learning reconstruction (DLR) with simple post-processing was developed to image knees of volunteers. SNR and CNR were determined. Results: We demonstrate that FE DLR, compared to UTE, was advantageous for greater signal to noise ratio for the cortical bone, as well as higher resolution that depicted trabecular structures. Impact: This study advances MR imaging of the bone, for specific use cases such as morphologic evaluation. The FE technique in particular is immediately translatable using existing sequences to help evaluate knee bone in the clinical settings.
Clinical value of a 10-minute deep-learning reconstruction fast spinecho knee magnetic resonance imaging protocol including T2 mapping
Authors: Wu Xiaxia , Liu Weiyin , Zha Yunfei
Published: November 2024

Motivation: T2 mapping is difficult to be implemented in clinics for long scan time. Goal(s): To propose a 10-minute fast spin echo knee MRI protocol including quantitative T2 map and morphologic images in identifying cartilage injury or grading cartilage degeneration. Approach: To subjectively and objectively assess the clinical value of knee imaging with different acceleration factor of 2 and 3 as well as using conventional and deep learning reconstruction algorithms (CR, DLR). Results: Both FSEDLR and DL-based quantitative T2 map with either an acceleration factor of 2 or 3 elevated diagnostic accuracy using a senior rater as a final diagnosis. Impact: A knee protocol including deep-learning based FSE structure imaging and quantitative T2 map could be facilitated in clinical application further elevating the diagnostic accuracy and performance.
DTI-MRI as a non-invasive assessment of extracellular matrix remodeling in lumbar paravertebral muscles of rats with sarcopenia
Authors: Huang Xinchen , He Bo
Published: November 2024

Motivation: The evaluation of extracellular matrix levels in skeletal muscle often requires tissue biopsy, which is difficult for patients to accept in clinical practiceGoal(s): We evaluated the extracellular matrix level of skeletal muscle using non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging technology and conducted pathological verification using skeletal muscle samples from rats with sarcopeniaApproach: We constructed a classic sarcopenic rat model , scanned the lumbar paravertebral muscles with a 3.0T MRI-based DTI sequence, and validated through histological experimentsResults: FA and CSA of sarcopenic rats were significantly reduced compared to the normal control group, and there was a strong correlation between them and pathological related parametersImpact: Our study provides a non-invasive tool for evaluating the extracellular matrix levels of skeletal muscles in sarcopenia
31P-MRS measured phosphocreatine recovery kinetics in human muscles during health and disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Singh Maninder , Jhajharia Aditya , Pruthi Rajat , Carmichael Owen
Published: November 2024

Motivation: 31P-MRS methodology is notoriously laboratory-specific, leading to uncertainty about the normal range of PCr recovery kinetics among healthy individuals, as well correlations with disease and demographic factors. Goal(s): Our aim was to characterize the normal range of PCr recovery measurements from 31P-MRS in human skeletal muscles, as well as correlations with age and end-of-exercise pH. Approach: Included studies focused on exercise-induced skeletal muscle PCr recovery kinetics in healthy or diseased individuals, using 31P-MRS. Results: PCr recovery time is consistent across three skeletal muscle groups in healthy individuals from diverse MRI centers. Greater age and more acidic pH increase PCr recovery time. Impact: These results will set the indexes for PCr recovery kinetic measures across different human skeletal muscles.
The application of 3D-ZTE technique in ex vivo ankle cortical bone MRI of adolescent pigs: A comparison with CT examination
Authors: Bai Wanjing , Xiong Xian , Li Yaqi , Jiang Lingjun , Song Xiyang , Li Xiaoxuan , Liang Huilou
Published: November 2024

Motivation: Exploring non-ionizing radiation alternatives to CT examination for diagnosing bone diseases in children is clinically desirable. Goal(s): To compare the visualization of the bone cortex around ankle joints of adolescent pig between 3D-ZTE MRI and CT techniques. Approach: A total of 12 specimens were subjected to both 3D-ZTE MRI and CT examination. The thicknesses of bone cortex were measured and compared between MRI and CT images. Results: There was no significant difference in the thicknesses of bone cortex in the inner and outer sides of tibia, fibula, and talus between 3D-ZTE and CT. Impact: 3D-ZTE technique can obtain CT-like images that accurately measure the thickness of bone cortex without ionizing radiation. This technique holds the potential for clinical applications in children with bone diseases, providing a safe alternative to traditional CT imaging.