http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/contents_list.asp?issue=202412 zh-cn An RSS feed for Chinese Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.001 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.002 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.003 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.004 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.005 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.006 ObjectiveTo analyze the accuracy and reproducibility of 7.0 T high resolution vessel wall imaging (HR-VWI) in assessing the degree of atherosclerotic stenosis in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) patients with ischemic stroke. Materials and MethodsThe present study retrospectively collected data from a total of 47 patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis in the middle cerebral artery at our hospital from September 2022 to November 2023. All patients underwent 7.0 T HR-VWI and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examinations within 2 weeks. Two senior physicians independently measured the stenosis diameter, stenosis length, inner and outer wall areas at the site of the atherosclerotic plaques in the MCA patients, and the intra-observer and inter-observer consistency was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). The stenotic rate and length of the MCA vessel affected by atherosclerotic plaque are measured by an experienced interventional neurologist, followed by conducting Bland-Altman analysis and correlation analysis to compare these measurements with the mean value obtained through HR-VWI. ResultsThe mean lumen diameter at the most stenotic site was independently measured by two observers for all 47 patients [(1.19±0.49) mm]. Additionally, measurements were also taken for mean plaque length (6.12±3.06 mm), mean inner wall area [(1.88±1.11) mm²], mean outer wall area [(8.99±2.49) mm²], mean normal lumen diameter [(2.31±0.35) mm], and mean inner wall area [(4.74±1.31) mm²] as well as mean outer wall area [(10.54±2.44) mm²]. The ICC values for all measurement was greater than 0.8, and the P value was less than 0.001. In the Bland-Altman analysis of consistency between DSA and HR-VWI in measuring stenotic rate and stenotic length, a high percentage of difference values fell within the mean difference ±1.96 standard deviations: 94.74% (54/57) for stenotic rate and 96.49% (55/57) for stenotic length, with ICC values of 0.944 and 0.897, respectively. Furthermore, strong correlations were observed between the two methods regarding both stenotic rate and stenotic length (r=0.955, P<0.001; r=0.890, P<0.001). ConclusionsThe 7.0 T HR-VWI demonstrates excellent reproducibility and accuracy in evaluating the degree of atherosclerotic stenosis in the MCA among patients with ischemic stroke. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.007 ObjectiveTo investigate the ability of 7.0 T magnetic resonance magnetic susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) sequences to assess bone microarchitecture imaging of the knee joint using ultra-high-resolution CT (U-HRCT) as a standard. Materials and MethodsAnalysis of 31 patients who underwent U-HRCT scanning of the knee from December 2022 to March 2023 at the First Affiliated Hospital of the Army Medical University, who underwent 7.0 T MRI knee scanning within one week. All data were processed by Siemens Syngovia, and the cortical thickness of the posterior portion of the femur was measured at the same anatomical level of the upper and lower margins of the patella in the knee U-HRCT and 7.0 T SWI sequences, respectively, and trabecular fit analyses were performed at the same anatomical level of the upper and lower margins of the patella and the tibial plateau in the knee U-HRCT and 7.0 T SWI, using the Bone J software, to assess the UHRCT as the standard SWI^,s ability to display bone microstructure. ResultsCortical thickness of the posterior femur at the level of the superior patellar margin was significantly higher in MRI than in CT [(0.320±0.020) mm vs. (0.230±0.025) mm, t=19, P<0.001], and cortical thickness of the posterior femur at the level of the inferior patellar margin was significantly higher in MRI than in CT [(0.260±0.021) mm vs. (0.158±0.028) mm, t=21, P<0.001]. At the level of the superior patellar rim, the CT and MRI fit of the femoral trabeculae was 47%±11%, at the level of the inferior patellar rim, the CT and MRI fit of the femoral trabeculae was 53%±10%, and at the level of the superior horizontal rim of the tibial plateau epiphysis, the CT and MRI fit of the tibial trabeculae was 55%±6%. ConclusionsAt 7.0 T MRI, SWI was able to show the cortical thickness of the posterior portion of the femur of the knee more accurately, but there were some limitations in the display of trabecular bone structure. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.008 ObjectiveTo investigate the application value of 7.0 T magnetic resonance glutamate chemical exchange saturation transfer (GluCEST) imaging for quantitatively evaluating the changes in hippocampal glutamate concentration before and after treatment in rats modeled with depression. Materials and MethodsThirty-six male SD rats were subjected to depression-like behavior induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model and randomly divided into three groups: normal control group, CUMS group, and fluoxetine administration group (CUMS-fluoxetine), twelve rats per group. Sugar water preference test (SPT), forced swimming test (FST) and open field test (OPT) were used to evaluate the depression-like behavior of rats. T2WI and GluCEST sequences were acquired using a 7.0 T small animal MRI scanner, and the relative concentration values of glutamate in the hippocampus were determined using Matlab software. CUMS group and normal control group, CUMS-fluoxetine group and CUMS group were respectively compared, the bilateral hippocampal regions of rats in each of the three groups were compared within the groups,the therapeutic effect of the administered groups was assessed. Results(1) Behavioral results showed that rats in the CUMS group had decreased sugar-water preference, prolonged immobility time in the forced swim test and decreased exercise distance in the open field test, while the CUMS-fluoxetine group had increased sugar-water preference, decreased immobility time in the forced swim test and increased exercise distance in the open field test. (2) The results of GluCEST assay values showed that the glutamate concentration in the bilateral hippocampal region was significantly higher in the CUMS group compared with the normal control group (left P<0.001, right P=0.014), the glutamate concentration in the bilateral hippocampal region in the CUMS-fluoxetine group was significantly reduced compared with that in the CUMS group (left P=0.002, right P=0.025), within-group comparisons of the bilateral hippocampal regions of the three groups of rats respectively, the differences in glutamate concentrations between the left and right hippocampal regions were not statistically significant (P>0.05), the hippocampal region of the CUMS-fluoxetine group had glutamate concentrations close to those of the normal control group. Conclusions7.0 T MR GluCEST imaging can noninvasively and quantitatively reflect the changes of glutamate concentration in bilateral hippocampal region before and after treatment in depression model rats, which can provide a theoretical basis for clinical assessment of the efficacy of depression. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.009 ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of high dielectric constant (HDC) materials in improving the quality of 7.0 T MRI in cerebellar. Materials and MethodsTen subjects were scanned using 7.0 T MRI, and firstly the HDC pad was placed on the occiput of each subject for B1 map, T2WI-turbo spin echo (T2WI-TSE), T1-mprage, and diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) sequence scanning. Then, the HDC pad was removed, and the above sequence scanning protocols were repeated. Comparisons were made between the results of using and not using HDC pad. To assess the quality of brain and cerebellar images of the same individual in two experiments, the Likert 5-point scale method was analyzed subjectively and changes in image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was quantified objectively. ResultsTen subjects [five males, 27-34 (30.60±2.58) years oid; five females, 26-32 (29.20±2.99) years old] were recruited in the present study. In cerebellar regions, the Likert 5 scores of T2WI-TSE and DWI sequences of the HDC pad group were better than the control group (P<0.05). In the objective assessment, the SNR of images acquired with B1 map and T2WI-TSE sequences were better than the control group (P<0.05). In brain regions, there were no statistical differences in the subjective and objective assessments of B1 map, T2WI-TSE, T1-mprage and DWI sequences (P>0.05). ConclusionsApplying the HDC pad in 7.0 T MRI can enhance the imaging quality of cerebellar regions without affecting the original image quality of the brain. It provides new opportunities for ultra-high field cerebellar diagnosis and research, as well as providing optimized strategies for ultra-high field imaging of other anatomical regions. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.010 ObjectiveTo construct and analyze the changes in topological properties of brain functional networks in adolescent non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) patients based on graph theory. Materials and MethodsThirty-five adolescent NSSI patients (NSSI group) and 24 healthy controls (control group) were enrolled in the study. Their resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were collected, and the brain functional network was constructed and binarized for graph theory analysis. The network characteristic parameters of the NSSI group and the control group were compared by independent sample t-test, and their correlation with the number of self-injury and addiction characteristics was analyzed. ResultsCompared with the Control group, the small-world attribute of the NSSI group decreased, and the characteristic path length increased, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). In the NSSI group, the betweenness centrality of the right olfactory cortex and right amygdala increased, while that of the left fusiform gyrus and left superior temporal gyrus decreased (P all <0.05); The node centrality of the right amygdala increased, while that of the left superior temporal gyrus, right superior temporal gyrus, and left middle temporal gyrus decreased (P all <0.05); The node clustering coefficient of the left precuneus increased, while that of the orbital inferior frontal gyrus, left supplementary motor area, left insula, right superior occipital gyrus, and right fusiform gyrus decreased (P all <0.05); The node efficiency of the left middle frontal gyrus, right posterior cingulate gyrus, right amygdala, and right precuneus increased, while that of the superior temporal gyrus decreased (P all <0.05); The node local efficiency of the precuneus increased, while that of the right fusiform gyrus and right temporal pole decreased (P all <0.05). The node clustering coefficient of the left supplementary motor area in the NSSI group was positively correlated with the number of self-injury in the past month (r=0.426, P<0.05); The node clustering coefficient of the right superior occipital gyrus, the node local efficiency of the right fusiform gyrus, and the node efficiency of the left middle frontal gyrus were negatively correlated with the score of the self-injury addiction characteristic scale (r=-0.335, -0.415, -0.404, P all <0.05). ConclusionsThe reduction of the global integration ability of NSSI adolescent brain network and the reduction of information transmission efficiency in the prefrontal cortex are closely related to the characteristics of self-injury addiction, which provides a new perspective for elucidating the brain function mechanism of self-injury addiction psychological disorder in NSSI patients, and is helpful for adolescent mental health intervention and treatment. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.011 ObjectiveTo explore the characteristics of gray matter structure and clinical symptoms in adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) comorbid with major depressive disorder (MDD). Materials and MethodsForty-six adolescents with NSSI comorbid with MDD (MDD-NSSI group) and 15 adolescents with NSSI without MDD (NSSI group) were included. And 40 healthy controls matched in age and gender were recruited (HC group). The clinical symptoms of participants were assessed using the Self-Rating Depression Scale, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation, and Ottawa Self-Injury Inventory. A 3.0 T magnetic resonance scanner was used for 3D T1WI high-resolution scanning. Calculate the gray matter volume, thickness, and surface area of all subjects. Analyze the differences in gray matter surface area, thickness, and volume among the three groups and their correlations with clinical symptoms. ResultsThere were no significant differences in age and sex among the three groups (P>0.05). Compared with the HC group, the depression and anxiety scores of the NSSI group and the MDD-NSSI group were increased (F=80.068, 117.630). Compared with the NSSI group, the suicide ideation, anxiety and depression scores of the MDD-NSSI group were also increased (t=-‍3.138, P<0.05). Compared with the HC group, the NSSI group showed increased surface area in the left transverse temporal gyrus, and decreased volume of the left isthmus of the cingulate gyrus (F=6.739, 4.290, P<0.05). Compared with the HC group, the MDD-NSSI group showed decreased surface area in the left superior parietal gyrus, increased surface area in the left transverse temporal, and increased volume in the left lateral occipital gyrus and the transverse temporal gyrus (F=3.182, 6.739, 3.331, 4.624, P<0.05). The volume of the left isthmus of the cingulate gyrus in the NSSI group was smaller than that in the MDD-NSSI group (F=4.290, P<0.05). The surface area of the left transverse temporal gyrus in the MDD-NSSI group was positively correlated with anxiety, suicide ideation and sensation seeking scores (r=0.320, 0.354, 0.367). The volume of the left isthmus of the cingulate gyrus was positively correlated with sensation seeking score (r=0.383). The volume of the left transverse temporal gyrus was positively correlated with anxiety and suicide ideation scores (r=0.320, 0.314, P<0.05). ConclusionsAdolescents with NSSI comorbid with MDD have more extensive gray matter structure abnormalities than those without MDD, and these abnormalities are related to the severity of clinical symptoms, providing an important theoretical basis for an in-depth understanding of this complex mental disorder. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.012 ObjectiveTo analyze the differences of amid proton transfer weighted (APTw) value and magnetic susceptibility value (MSV) of the substantia nigra dentate system between different stages of Parkinson^,s disease (PD) and healthy control (HC) by amid proton transfer (APT) and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM). To evaluate whether the APTw value or MSV in substantia nigra (SN), red nucleus (RN) and dentate nucleus (DN) could serve as imaging findings for determining different stages of Parkinson^,s disease. Materials and MethodsA total of 35 patients with PD and 25 HCs (age and sex matched) were recruited from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. The PD group was divided into an early-stage PD (ESPD) group of 22 cases and an advanced-stage PD (ASPD) group of 13 cases based on Hoehn-Yahr grading, then, comparing the differences between APTw values and MSV among different regions of nuclei in each group. Finally, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyze the diagnostic performance of APT, QSM, and their combined use. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and DeLong test were used to evaluate the efficiency of APT, QSM and combined parameters. Finally, the correlation of clinical scales with APTw values and MSV were analyzed. ResultsThe APTw values between the ESPD group and the HC group, the ESPD group and the ASPD group, the ASPD group and the HC group in the SN, between the ASPD group and the HC group in the RN, and between the ESPD group and the HC group, the ASPD group and the HC group in the DN show statistically significant differences (P<0.05). The MSV values between the ESPD group and the HC group, the ESPD group and the ASPD group, the ASPD group and the HC group in the SN, between the ASPD group and the HC group, the ASPD group and the ESPD group in the RN, and between the ASPD group and the HC group, the ASPD group and the ESPD group in the DN show statistically significant differences (P<0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) of APT, QSM, and their combination in distinguishing the ESPD group from the HC group are 0.886, 0.792, and 0.926, respectively, with statistically significant differences (P<0.05); in distinguishing the ESPD group from the ASPD group, the AUC are 0.787, 0.885, and 0.939, respectively, with statistically significant differences (P<0.05). There is a positive correlation between the APTw values in the SN and MoCA scores, and a negative correlation between the MSV in the SN, RN and MoCA scores; there is a positive correlation between the APTw values in the SN, RN and MMSE scores, all showing significant differences (P<0.05). ConclusionsAPT and QSM could be used as imaging indicators for evaluating the stages of PD, and the combined application of APT and QSM can significantly improve diagnostic efficiency. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.013 ObjectiveTo investigate the value of semi-quantitative analysis based on T1WI, T2WI, T2 fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequences in exploring abnormal brain development changes in infants of gestational diabetic mothers (IDMs). Materials and MethodsA total of 54 cases of DMs were retrospectively included as the observation group (IDMs group), while 70 infants born to mothers without high-risk perinatal factors during the same period served as the healthy control (HC) group. Based on whether the gestational age at birth was less than 37 weeks, the IDMs group and the HC group were further divided into preterm infants: 27 in the IDMs A group and 33 in the HC A group, and term infants: 27 in the IDMs B group and 37 in the HC B group. A 1.5 T MRI was performed using T1WI, T2WI, T2 FLAIR, and DWI sequences. Regions of interest (ROI) were manually drawn on the maximum slices of the cerebellar hemispheres, amygdala, hippocampus, temporal lobe white matter, globus pallidus, caudate nucleus, ventrolateral thalamic nucleus, posterior limb of the internal capsule, splenium of the corpus callosum, frontal white matter, occipital white matter, parietal white matter, centrum semiovale, and masseter muscles, measuring the signal intensity and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of each ROI. The mean signal intensity ratios (SIR_T1, SIR_T2, SIR_{T2 FLAIR}) of each region/masseter muscle were calculated. Differences in these ratios and ADC values between groups were compared, and the diagnostic efficacy was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, with DeLong^,s test applied to compare the differences in the area under the curve (AUC). The relationship between MR intensity ratios and maternal 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) blood glucose levels was also observed. ResultsCompared with the HC group, the IDMs group showed reduced SIR_T1 in the occipital lobe, globus pallidus, caudate nucleus, posterior limb of the internal capsule, ventrolateral thalamic nucleus, parietal lobe, frontal lobe, and centrum semiovale, as well as lower SIR_T2 in all regions, and lower SIR_T2 FLAIR in all regions except for the occipital lobe and posterior limb of the internal capsule. The ADC values in the temporal lobe were also lower (P<0.05). After stratified analysis, it was found that SIR_T1 in the cerebellar hemisphere, posterior limb of the internal capsule, ventrolateral thalamic nucleus, and centrum semiovale, as well as SIR_T2 in all regions, and SIR_{T2 FLAIR} in all areas except for the occipital lobe and splenium of the corpus callosum in the IDMs A group were lower than in the control group. In the IDMs B group, SIR_T1 in the frontal and parietal lobes, SIR_T2 in all regions, and ADC values in the cerebellar hemisphere and temporal lobe were lower than those in the HC B group (P<0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC values for SIR_T2 in all regions in the IDMs group were the highest, with SIR_T2 in the temporal lobe demonstrating good diagnostic efficacy (AUC=0.702). DeLong^,s test indicated statistically significant differences in AUC values between SIR_T2 and SIR_T1, SIR_{T2 FLAIR}, or ADC in the cerebellar hemisphere, hippocampus, temporal lobe, occipital lobe, posterior limb of the internal capsule, and parietal lobe (P<0.05). SIR_T2 in all regions of the IDMs group was negatively correlated with 1-hour blood glucose levels from the OGTT (P<0.05). ConclusionsThe relative signal intensity ratios of T1WI, T2WI, and T2 FLAIR, along with ADC values, are useful for the early detection of neurodevelopmental abnormalities in IDMs. Among these, SIR_T2 demonstrates a higher diagnostic efficacy. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.014 ObjectiveTo explore the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) histogram and plaque characteristics of patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis in the prediction of ischemic stroke recurrence. Materials and MethodsThis study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 114 patients with anterior circulation ischemic stroke who were treated in the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University from June 2022 to June 2024. According to clinical and imaging data, the patients were divided into initial stroke group (n=56) and recurrent stroke group (n=58). Compare two groups of patients with clinical data, ADC histogram parameters and characteristics of intracranial atherosclerotic plaque. Compare two groups of patients with clinical data, ADC histogram parameters and characteristics of intracranial atherosclerotic plaque. Using multivariable logistic regression model analysis of independent risk factors for recurrence of ischemic stroke, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to analyze the predictive value of clinical data, ADC histogram parameters and intracranial atherosclerotic plaque characteristics for recurrence of ischemic stroke patients. ResultsAmong 114 patients with anterior ischemic stroke, 56 had primary stroke and 58 had recurrent stroke. There were significant differences in hyperhomocysteinemia, ADC_min, kurtosis, intracranial atherosclerotic plaque load and plaque enhancement rate between the primary stroke group and the recurrent stroke group (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that kurtosis value, plaque enhancement rate and hyperhomocysteinemia were independent risk factors for ischemic stroke recurrence (P<0.05). Logistic regression model had the best overall predictive power (AUC=0.810, 95% CI: 0.734 to 0.887) were higher than any of the independent predictors, such as plaque enhancement rate (AUC=0.714, 95% CI : 0.619 to 0.808) and kurtosis value (AUC=0.702, 95% CI: 0.607 to 0.796). ConclusionsThe kurtosis of ADC histogram, plaque area, plaque surface irregularity and plaque enhancement rate are independently correlated with the recurrence of anterior circulation ischemic stroke. The combination of ADC histogram and atherosclerotic plaque features have a high predictive value for the recurrence of anterior circulation ischemic stroke, and can provide relevant technical support for early clinical diagnosis and treatment. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.015 ObjectiveThis study utilizes high-resolution magnetic resonance vessel wall imaging (HRMR-VWI) to analyze the characteristics of carotid atherosclerotic plaques, and Plaque Reporting and Data System (Plaque-RADS) scoring system were performed to explore the clinical value of Plaque-RADS. Materials and MethodsA retrospective collection of 85 patients who underwent HRMR-VWI from January 2022 to December 2023 was analyzed. This cohort included 33 patients in the stroke group and 52 patients in the non-stroke group. Independent sample t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare parameters between culprit and non-culprit plaques. logistic regression analysis identified independent risk factors for plaque characteristics, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the diagnostic efficiency of these parameters. ResultsThere were 33 culprit and 29 non-culprit plaques in the stroke group, while 102 non-culprit plaques in the non-stroke group. Culprit plaques had significantly smaller minimum lumen area and a lower percentage of fibrous tissue volume (P<0.05); They also exhibited greater plaque length, volume, average wall thickness, minimum and maximum wall thickness, remodeling index, and volume of intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) or thrombus (P<0.05) compared to non-culprit plaques. Furthermore, compared to non-culprit plaques, culprit lesions had higher plaque burden, degree of stenosis, and Plaque-RADS scores (P<0.001). Logistic regression revealed that plaque length [odds ratio (OR)=1.67, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04-1.10)], plaque burden (OR=3.57, 95% CI: 1.76-7.24), remodeling index (OR=3.26, 95% CI: 1.62-6.59), presence of IPH or thrombus (OR=5.33, 95% CI: 2.27-12.52), and Plaque-RADS score (OR=4.66, 95% CI: 2.35-9.24), among others, were significant risk factors for ipsilateral acute cerebral infarction (ACI). The area under the curve (AUC) for Plaque-RADS scoring alone was 0.815 (95% CI: 0.732-0.898), and combining it with other risk factors yielded an AUC of 0.837 (95% CI: 0.735-0.921). ConclusionsCarotid plaques with IPH or thrombus, increased plaque length, burden, remodeling index, degree of stenosis, average wall thickness, and higher Plaque-RADS scores significantly elevate the risk of ipsilateral ACI. The Plaque-RADS score provides a standardized evaluation of carotid plaques, indicating the risk stratification and identifying high-risk patients, thus serving as an effective predictor of ACI. This study underscores the value of Plaque-RADS in enhancing clinical decision-making and improving outcomes for patients with carotid atherosclerosis. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.016 ObjectiveTo investigate the value of three- dimensional pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (3D pCASL) in diagnosing cervical small metastatic lymph node (SMLN) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Materials and MethodsA total of 63 cases of nasopharyngeal carcinoma were collected retrospectively. A combination of routine plain scanning, enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and 3D pCASL scanning was conducted prior to treatment. Subsequent follow-ups involved routine plain scanning and enhanced MRI post-treatment. The evaluation of lymph nodes was based on the criteria for assessing lymph node metastasis established by the nasopharyngeal carcinoma Clinical Staging Committee of our country, combined with MRI images during the follow-up period. According to the diagnostic outcomes, the lymph nodes were categorized into three groups: large metastatic lymph node (LMLN) group (short diameter >10 mm), SMLN group (short diameter ≤10 mm), and benign lymph node (BLN) group. The differences among various groups in terms of the maximum diameter, minimum diameter, ratio of minimum diameter to maximum diameter, average blood flow (BFavg), minimum blood flow (BFmin), and maximum blood flow (BFmax) of lymph nodes were compared among all groups. The diagnostic efficacy of various parameters for cervical SMLN in nasopharyngeal carcinoma was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. ResultsA total of 323 cervical lymph nodes were included, with 152 in the SMLN group, 97 in the LMLN group, and 74 in the BLN group. There were statistically significant differences in maximum diameter, minimum diameter, the ratio of minimum diameter to maximum diameter, BFavg, BFmax, and BFmin among the SMLN, LMLN, and BLN groups (P<0.001). The maximum diameter, minimum diameter, and the ratio of minimum diameter to maximum diameter in the LMLN group were all greater than those in the SMLN and BLN groups (P<0.001). The shortest diameter and the ratio of shortest diameter to maximum diameter in the SMLN group were both greater than those in the BLN group (P=0.010, P<0.001). The BFavg, BFmax, and BFmin in the BLN group were all lower than those in the SMLN and LMLN groups (P<0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in maximum diameter between the BLN and SMLN groups, as well as in BFavg, BFmax, and BFmin between the LMLN and SMLN groups (P>0.05). ROC analysis revealed that the area under the curve (AUC) values for differentiating BLN from SMLN in nasopharyngeal carcinoma using minimum diameter, the ratio of minimum diameter to maximum diameter, BFavg, BFmax, and BFmin were 0.712, 0.740, 0.952, 0.990, and 0.791, respectively. The corresponding cut-off values were 0.55 cm, 0.59, 39.4 mL/(min·100 g), 58.5 mL/(min·100 g), and 25.5 mL/(min·100 g), respectively. Conclusions3D pCASL can effectively differentiate cervical SMLN in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, enhancing the accuracy of N staging for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.017 ObjectiveTo explore the value of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) based intratumoral and peritumoral radiomics methods in predicting the status of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) in breast cancer. Materials and MethodsClinical and imaging data of 246 patients with pathologically proven breast cancer were retrospectively analyzed and randomly divided into training group and verification group according to a ratio of 7∶3. ITK-SNAP software was used to manually outline the intratumoral areas of interest, and PHIgo-AK software was used to expand the peritumoral and extract the intratumoral and peritumoral radiomics features. The optimal number of intratumor and peritumor features of DCE-MRI and DWI were selected by max-relevance and min-redundancy (mRMR) algorithm. Radiomics models of single sequence and combined sequence were established respectively, and the prediction efficiency of each model was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to select the model with the highest predictive efficiency. Independent risk factors for predicting HER-2 status were screened from clinical and routine imaging features in the training group through single logistic regression. A fusion model was established by combining the radiomic score (rad-score) of the model with the highest predictive power, and then presented by nomogram. AUC value, decision curve analysis and DCA were used to evaluate the efficacy and clinical value of the model. ResultsThe combined intratumoral and peritumoral imaging model based on DCE-MRI and DWI predicted the AUC value of HER-2 status in the training group and the verification group, which were 0.953 and 0.948, respectively, with the highest efficiency. Tumor maximum diameter is an independent risk factor for distinguishing breast cancer HER-2 status. Finally, the fusion model established by combining rad-score and tumor maximum diameter has good predictive efficacy for breast cancer HER-2 status, with the AUC value of 0.961 in the training group and 0.958 in the verification group. ConclusionsThe intratumoral and peritumoral radiomic methods based on DCE-MRI and DWI have good value in the prediction of breast cancer HER-2 status. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.018 ObjectiveTo explore the value of MRI radiomics based on deep learning three-dimensional (3D) super-resolution reconstruction technology in predicting the efficacy of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with molecularly targeted drugs in treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Materials and MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 122 patients with primary HCC, divided into an objective response group (complete remission + partial remission, n=68) and a non-objective response group (progressive disease + stable disease, n=54) according to the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST). A 3D super-resolution reconstruction technique based on generative adversarial networks was used to double the resolution of MRI-enhanced arterial early images. The dataset was randomly divided into training and validation sets in an 8∶2 ratio. Radiomic features were extracted from volume of interests delineated on both pre- and post-reconstructed images, and subsequently, radiomic scores were calculated. Logistic regression classifiers were used to establish radiomic models for both pre- and post-reconstructed images. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to screen clinical characteristics and establish a clinical model. Model performance was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, with area under the curve (AUC) compared via DeLong^,s test. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to assess the clinical value of each model. ResultsLogistic regression analysis identified tumor diameter [odds ratio (OR) =1.311, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.112-1.547, P<0.001] and arterial phase enhancement (OR=9.466, 95% CI=2.489-36.001, P<0.001) as independent predictors of treatment efficacy for HCC. The post-reconstruction radiomic model exhibited the best predictive performance, with an AUC of 0.883 (95% CI: 0.814-0.952) in the training set and 0.844 (95% CI: 0.656-0.999) in the validation set. These results surpassed those of the pre-reconstruction radiomic model, which had AUC values of 0.847 (95% CI: 0.765-0.928) and 0.753 (95% CI: 0.554-0.953), respectively, and the clinical model, with AUC values of 0.834 (95% CI: 0.754-0.914) and 0.760 (95% CI: 0.564-0.956), respectively. However, the differences in AUC among the models in both the training and validation sets are not statistically significant (P values all >0.05). DCA indicated that the post-reconstruction radiomic model had the greatest net clinical benefit in the training set above a threshold of 0.34 and in the validation set between 0.36-0.59 and above 0.71. ConclusionsThe application of MRI radiomics enhanced by 3D super-resolution reconstruction technology based on generative adversarial networks shows promise in predicting the efficacy of TACE combined with molecularly targeted therapy for unresectable HCC. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.019 ObjectiveTo explore the difference in Van Assche scores and MAGNIFI-CD scores between perianal-first-onset and non-perianal-first-onset perianal fistulizing Crohn^,s disease (pfCD). Materials and MethodsRetrospective analysis of Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Anorectal Department from June 2017 to August 2023 in hospital and surgical treatment of 81 cases of pfCD clinical data, according to the anal fistula lesion time and Crohn^,s disease (CD) diagnosis time, divided into the perianal-first-onset group (45 cases of CD diagnosis after anal fistula or perianal abscess) and the non-first-onset group (36 cases of anal fistula or perianal abscess after the diagnosis of CD). The indicators in both groups were analyzed [clinical characteristics: gender, age of diagnosis, duration of anal fistula lesions, history of perianal surgery, history of perianal surgery, number of perianal surgery, CD disease site, CD disease behavior, Crohn^,s disease activity index (CDAI) and perianal disease activity index (PDAI); classification of anal fistula; imaging score of anal fistula, etc] were included in the statistical analysis. The clinical characteristics, anal fistula classification and imaging scores of the two groups were analyzed, and the correlation of imaging scores, anal fistula classification, CDAI and PDAI of all patients was also analyzed. ResultsThe duration of perianal lesions, the age of diagnosis of CD and the CDAI score of the first-onset group were less than those of the non-first group (P=0.023, 0.027, 0.004). In the first-onset group, the intestinal tract was mainly ileocolon (P=0.004), and the disease behavior was mainly non-narrow and non-penetrating type (P<0.001). The fistula characteristics were different in MAGNIFI-CD score, and the fistula horseshoe type and levator or levator type in the first group were less than the non-first-onset group (P=0.005); the pus diameter was different in Van Assche score, and the non-first-onset group was significantly larger than the first-onset group (P=0.011). Good agreement between Van Assche score and MAGNIFI-CD score in all patients (ICC=0.87, P<0.001); St-James score showed the highest correlation with imaging score with strong correlation (Van Assche score r=0.82, MAGNIFI-CD score r=0.80, P<0.001). ConclusionsThe patients of perianal-first-onset pfCD, which has younger age of diagnosis, the perianal course was short, and the disease site was mainly ileocolic,and disease behavior is non-stenosis and non-penetration,and low CDAI score. Van Assche score and MAGNIFI-CD score were used for the diagnosis of anal fistula with CD. MAGNIFI-CD score of non-first-onset group has more translevator or superlevator muscle, and Van Assche score had large pus diameter. St-James classification is more suitable for pfCD. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.020 ObjectiveTo investigate the application value of amide proton transfer (APT) imaging combined with apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant soft tissue tumors. Materials and MethodsFifty-five patients with soft tissue tumors confirmed by pathology were retrospectively analyzed. There were 31 benign tumors and 24 malignant tumors. All patients underwent magnetic resonance APT and diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) examination before operation. Two observers measured the ADC value of DWI and the asymmetric magnetization transfer ratio of APT [MTRasym (3.5 ppm), and The APT value is abbreviated]. The differences of ADC and APT values between benign and malignant tumors were compared. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of ADC, APT and their combination in differentiating benign and malignant soft tissue tumors. ResultsThe APT values of benign tumors were less than those of malignant tumors [1.90%+1.06% vs. 3.29%+0.94%], the difference was statistically significant (t=-5.07, P<0.01). The ADC values of benign tumors were higher than those of malignant tumors [(1.70±0.54)×10^-3 mm²/s vs. (1.15±0.56)×10^-3 mm²/s], and the difference was statistically significant (t=3.68, P<0.01). The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity of ADC, APT and their combination were 0.778 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.646-0.879], 62.5%, 87.1%; 0.838 (95% CI: 0.714-0.924), 70.8%, 90.3%; 0.895 (95% CI: 0.783-0.962), 83.3%, 87.1%, respectively. There was no significant difference in AUC between ADC and APT (Z=0.664, P>0.05). The AUC of the combined diagnosis of the two was higher than that of ADC (Z=2.086, P<0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference in AUC with APT (Z=1.394, P>0.05) alone. ConclusionsBoth APT and ADC can be used for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant soft tissue tumors. The combination of APT and ADC can improve the diagnostic efficiency. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.021 ObjectivesThe MRI iteraterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation quantitation (IDEAL-IQ) technique was utilized to non-invasively and quantitatively assess fat deposition and iron deposition in the liver, kidney and pancreas of rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as well as to study the relationship between fasting blood glucose (FBG), body weight, and fat deposition and iron deposition in T2DM rats, and to observe the laboratory and pathological alterations between groups. Materials and MethodsTen specific pathogen free (SPF) healthy male SD rats were randomly grouped into subgroups, experimental group (n=7) and control group (n=3). The experimental group was subjected to the establishment of a model of T2DM, after the experimental group was modeled, the two groups of rats were scanned with MRI IDEAL-IQ. The proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and transverse relaxation rate (R2^*) of the liver, pancreas and kidney of the two groups of rats were measured to evaluate the fat deposition and iron overload in the liver, pancreas and kidney of the experimental group and the control group, and to assess the changes in liver function, renal function, and lipids by blood sampling from the heart at the end of the scanning process. The liver, kidney, and pancreas were taken at execution for routine HE staining to observe cellular changes, oil red O staining to observe fat deposition, and Prussian blue iron staining to observe iron deposition. The experimental data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 27.0 software, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between FBG, body weight and PDFF and R2^* values of various organs in rats. ResultsThe FBG, body weight, triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) of SD rats in the T2DM group were higher than those of the control group, and the PDFF of the pancreas, liver, right kidney, and left kidney as well as the R2^* of the pancreas and liver were higher than those of the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). However, the differences in T1 signal intensity and T2 signal intensity of the pancreas, liver, and both kidneys were not statistically significant between the two groups of rats, and the differences in R2^*, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine (Cr) of both kidneys were not statistically significant when compared with those of the control group (P>0.05). Pearson^,s correlation analysis showed that the differences between FBG and PDFF in the liver (r=0.773), PDFF of the pancreas (r=0.837), PDFF of the right kidney (r=0.895), PDFF of the left kidney (r=0.784), R2^* of the liver (r=0.876), and body weight (r=0.980) were positively correlated (P<0.05). Body weight was positively correlated with PDFF of the pancreas (r=0.840), PDFF of the right kidney (r=0.854), PDFF of the left kidney (r=0.796), PDFF of the liver (r=0.834), and PDFF of the pancreas (r=0.778) (P<0.05). ConclusionsIn this experiment, MRI IDEAL-IQ technology was used to non-invasively and quantitatively evaluate the content of fat deposition and iron deposition in the liver and pancreas of T2DM rats, and the difference in fat content in both kidneys of the two groups of rats was also evaluated. This technique is expected to provide a new direction for clinical diagnosis and treatment by dynamically following newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus patients, and assessing changes in liver, kidney, and pancreatic fat and iron content at an early stage. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.022 ObjectiveTo investigate the impact of artificial intelligence-assisted compressed sensing (ACS) technology on the imaging of the MULTI-parametric MR imaging with flexible design sequences (MTP) in the saddle area, and to optimize and select the most suitable acceleration factor (AF). Materials and MethodsForty-one patients were prospectively included. There were 27 patients with sellar lesions and 14 healthy volunteers. All subjects underwent MTP sequential scanning with different AF using 3.0 T MRI. These included AF=3 for sensitivity encoding (SENSE) and AF=3, 4, 5 and 6 for ACS technology (abbreviated SENSE3, ACS3, ACS4, ACS5 and ACS6, respectively). The images of T1 map, R2^* map, T2^* map, T1WI and proton density weighted imaging (PDWI) were obtained from the MTP sequence. The signal intensity (SI) and quantitative parameters of the lesions and gray matter were measured by two observers on the parameter maps and weighted maps of different AF sequences, respectively. SI, standard deviation (SD) and quantitative parameters of white matter were measured. The quantitative parameter values, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), between the two groups of different AF were calculated respectively. According to image artifacts, lesion significance and gray matter demarcation clarity, five-point scoring method was used to evaluate the image quality. Kappa was used to test the consistency of subjective scores between the two observers. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to test the consistency of objective measurements between two observers. The differences in quantitative values, SNR, CNR and subjective scores among different AF were analyzed using Friedman rank sum test or single factor ANOVA test. ResultsThere was a good agreement between the two observers (ICC: 0.836-0.998, Kappa: 0.839-0.909). The subjective scores and measurement data of senior observers were selected for follow-up analysis. There was no significant difference in quantitative values among different AF sequences (P>0.05). The measured SNR and CNR were different under different AF, and there was statistical significance (P<0.05). After optimization, the scanning time of ACS sequences with different AF (3-6) was reduced by 21.21%, 40.77%, 52.62% and 61.16%, respectively, compared with that of SENSE3 sequences. Compared with SENSE3 sequence, SNR and CNR of T1WI image and PDWI image were increased when ACS3 and 4 were used, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). When ACS5, 6, the SNR of PDWI images increased, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in other data (P>0.05). Compared with SENSE3 sequence images, the subjective score of gray-white matter demarcation clarity in ACS5 and 6 sequences was lower among different AFS, and the difference was statistically significant. The subjective score of lesion significance of ACS6 sequence decreased, and the difference was statistically significant. There was no significant difference in other data (P>0.05). ConclusionsThe results of this study show that using ACS can further optimize MTP sequences. Comprehensively considering time and image quality, ACS4 is recommended, with scan time reduced by 40.77%, and able to obtain reliable quantitative parameters and qualitative images. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.024 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.025 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.026 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.027 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.028 ^,s disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, typified by resting tremors, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability. The tremor-dominant (TD) subtype of PD is characterized mainly by limb tremors, which severely impact the quality of life in advanced TD-PD patients. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques have provided several non-invasive scientific methods for studying brain structure and function in TD-PD. This paper discusses the structural and functional aspects of the brain, reviewing the progress in multimodal MRI techniques such as three-dimensional T1-weighted imaging (3D-T1WI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) imaging, susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and neuromelanin-sensitive MRI (NM-MRI) in TD-PD patients, offering new insights for future research. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.029 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.030 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.031 ^,s microstructure, enabling more precise tumor typing and grading. Moreover, 7 T MRI demonstrates significant potential in dynamically monitoring tumor growth, assessing the tumor microenvironment, and guiding surgical resection. This review summarizes the advancements in the application of 7 T magnetic resonance imaging in brain tumor research and discusses the challenges and future directions of 7 T MRI technology in brain tumor studies, aiming to provide insights and guidance for clinicians and researchers. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.032 ^,s structure and function in vivo. While the dysfunction of the GS has been related to a myriad of neurological conditions, particularly within the spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases, its role in the context of brain tumors has been less extensively explored. This review comprehensively summarizes the anatomy and physiology of the GS, identifies factors that can damage it, and introduces principal MRI-based assessment methods. It explores the role of the GS in the pathological changes associated with brain tumors and discusses its potential applications in the diagnosis and treatment of these tumors, aiming to provide novel perspectives and methodologies for research in this field. ]]> Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.033 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.034 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.035 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2024.12.036 Fri,20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT