http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/contents_list.asp?issue=202602 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.1674-8034.2026.02.001 ObjectiveTo explore the abnormal functional connections in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) complicated with sleep disturbances using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) and seed-based resting state functional connectivity (rs-FC) method, expecting to more comprehensively reveal the neural mechanisms of MDD with sleep disturbances and provide reliable imaging evidence for clinical diagnosis and treatment planning. Materials and MethodsA total of 35 patients diagnosed with MDD complicated with sleep disturbances and 30 healthy controls who visited Henan Provincial People^,s Hospital from December 2022 to October 2024 were enrolled in this study. General information including gender, age, ethnicity, and years of education was collected from all subjects, and data from Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scales were collected from MDD patients with sleep disturbances. Then, 3D-T1-MPRAGE and resting-state functional magnetic resonance data were acquired from all subjects. Preprocessing of fMRI data was conducted using the REST package in MATLAB; bilateral suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) were defined as seed regions for rs-FC analysis to quantify functional connectivity strength between seeds and voxels in other brain regions. ResultsFirst, we found a strong positive correlation between the scores of the PSQI and the HAMD-17 (r = 0.713, P < 0.001). Second, we observed reduced functional connectivity between the right SCN and the left dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus (t = -4.505 7, P < 0.005), between the left SCN and the left precuneus (t = -3.157 6, P < 0.005), as well as between the right SCN and the left medial orbital superior frontal gyrus (t = -3.588 1, P < 0.005). ConclusionsThis study reveals that MDD patients comorbid with sleep disturbances exhibit specific reductions in functional connectivity between the SCN and multiple brain regions. These abnormal functional connections among the relevant brain regions are significantly correlated with the severity of depressive and sleep symptoms, suggesting that the abnormalities of these pathways may play an important role in the pathogenesis of MDD comorbid with sleep disturbances. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.002 ObjectiveTo investigate the characteristics of brain functional abnormalities in adolescents with subclinical depression (SD) using amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) by resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI). Materials and MethodsEighty-five adolescents were enrolled, including 62 in the SD group and 23 healthy controls (HC). Whole-brain ALFF and ReHo maps were computed and compared between groups. The overlapping regions of significant ALFF and ReHo alterations were defined as composite regions of interest for whole-brain functional connectivity (FC) analysis. Correlation analysis was performed using the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores. ResultsCompared with the HC group, the SD group showed significantly decreased ALFF in the anterior cingulate cortex and subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (t = -5.456, voxel-level P < 0.005, cluster-level P < 0.05) and ReHo (t = -4.724, voxel-level P < 0.005, cluster-level P < 0.05), and significantly increased ALFF in the left anterior cerebellum (t = 4.277, voxel-level P < 0.005, cluster-level P < 0.05). FC analysis using the overlapping regions of positive ALFF and ReHo results as composite seeds revealed reduced connectivity with the medial prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, rectus gyrus, olfactory cortex, and caudate nucleus (t = -4.099, voxel-level P < 0.005, cluster-level P < 0.05). No significant correlation was found between SDS scores and brain functional indicators (all P > 0.05). ConclusionsAdolescents with SD already exhibit significant functional abnormalities in the sgACC and left anterior cerebellum, offering new neuroimaging clues for the early identification of depression risk and for understanding its underlying mechanisms. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.003 ObjectiveIn recent years, resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) has become a key non-invasive tool for exploring brain functional abnormalities in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, findings across studies remain inconsistent. To address this, a systematic integration of existing rs-fMRI evidence is warranted to identify consistent patterns of functional brain alterations in MS patients. Materials and MethodsUp to April 2025, a comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Wanfang, and CNKI Database to screen for relevant studies that employed amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF), fractional ALFF (fALFF), or regional homogeneity (ReHo) to investigate spontaneous brain functional activity in multiple sclerosis (MS). Data analysis was conducted using anisotropic effect size seed-based d mapping (AES-SDM) software. ResultsA total of 11 studies (12 datasets) were included, involving 292 MS patients and 278 healthy controls (HCs). Compared with HCs, MS patients showed significantly increased spontaneous brain activity in right insula, Rolandic operculum, Heschl gyrus, supramarginal gyrus, bilateral thalamus, and left inferior frontal gyrus (orbital part), whereas significantly decreased activity was observed in the right lingual gyrus, cuneus cortex, calcarine/surrounding cortex, middle temporal gyrus, and striatum (caudate nucleus). ConclusionsThis study reveals consistent brain function changes in MS patients, involving related brain regions such as emotion regulation, cognition, sensation, vision and motor control. These findings not only deepen the understanding of the neuropathological mechanism of MS, but also provide potential biomarkers for disease diagnosis, progression monitoring and treatment effect evaluation. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.004 ObjectiveTo explore the application value of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) combined with arterial spin labeling (ASL) in cognitive impairment (CI) of asymptomatic Moyamoya disease (MMD) in adults. Materials and MethodsDTI and ASL were performed in 81 patients with MMD (40 patients with MMD-CI and 41 patients with MMD-NCI) and 43 healthy controls (HC). The differences and correlations of DTI and ASL parameters in different brain regions of each group were compared and analyzed. ResultsCompared with MMD-NCI group and HC group, the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of white matter, corpus callosum, right semi-oval center and left cingulate gyrus in bilateral frontal subcortex, corona radiata, anterior horn of lateral ventricle and trigone of lateral ventricle in MMD-CI group increased (P < 0.05), the fractional anisotropy (FA) of bilateral frontal subcortex, corona radiata, corpus callosum and right anterior horn of lateral ventricle decreased (P < 0.05), and the cerebral blood flow (CBF) of bilateral semi-oval center, corona radiata, right frontal subcortex and right cingulate gyrus decreased (P < 0.05). The ADC values of left corona radiata, corpus callosum, right anterior horn of ventricle, left anterior horn of ventricle and right trigone of ventricle were negatively correlated with CBF values (r = -0.47, -0.44, -0.38, -0.27, -0.26). The FA values of left corona radiata, corpus callosum, right anterior horn of ventricle, left trigone of ventricle and right hippocampal head were positively correlated with CBF values (r = 0.44, 0.42, 0.39, 0.37, 0.33). The FA values of double corona radiata, corpus callosum, left frontal subcortical and right ventricular anterior horn in MMD-CI group were lower than those in MMD-NCI group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). ConclusionsDTI and ASL can reveal the abnormal changes of white matter in adult MMD patients. FA value may be a sensitive imaging index to identify cognitive impairment in adult MMD patients. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.005 ObjectiveTo evaluate subcortical structure and function changes in patients with chronic heart failure (HF) by using structural and functional MRI. Materials and MethodsForty-nine patients with chronic HF and forty-nine age, sex and education-matched healthy controls were included in our hospital. For every participant, demographic data, MRI and cognition data were acquired. Differences in subcortical structure volumes and their functional connectivity with whole brain between two groups were analyzed. We further conducted correlation analysis to assess the relationships among subcortical structure volumes, functional connectivity, and clinical/cognitive variables. ResultsCompared with healthy controls, HF group showed decreased volumes in bilateral thalamus and left amygdala (P < 0.05, FDR correction), decreased functional connectivity between amygdala and left superior temporal gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus (P < 0.05, GRF correction). However, there was no significant difference in functional connectivity between thalamus and other brain regions between two groups. In addition, HF groups also exhibited decreased cognitive scores (P < 0.001). Bilateral thalamus volume positively correlated with Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (left: r = 0.416, P = 0.003; r = 0.547, P < 0.001; right: r = 0.426, P = 0.002; r = 0.536, P < 0.001), negatively correlated with HF duration and heart function class (left: r = -0.287, P = 0.045; r = -0.366, P = 0.010; right: r = -0.308, P = 0.031; r = -0.343, P = 0.016). ConclusionsSubcortical structure volume and functional connectivity abnormalities were associated with cognitive dysfunction, suggesting that subcortical structures may serve as an anatomical basis and potential intervention target for cognitive impairment in chronic HF. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.006 ObjectiveThis study employed structural and resting-state functional MRI techniques to investigate the effects of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) total burden severity on the structure and function of cortical regions and subcortical nuclei, and their relationship with cognitive function. Materials and MethodsA total of 120 CSVD patients underwent brain MRI scans, including T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), and resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI). Cognitive function was assessed using neuropsychological scales. Four CSVD imaging markers — white matter hyperintensities (WMH), enlarged perivascular spaces (ePVS), lacunes, and cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) — were evaluated on corresponding MRI sequences. A total CSVD burden score (ranging from 0 to 4) was calculated for each patient, who was then divided into four groups (scores 1 to 4). For structural analysis, voxel-based morphometry (VBM) was employed, and region of interest (ROI) were defined using the Schaefer-400 atlas (400 cortical parcels) and the Tian subcortical atlas (32 subcortical nuclei). For functional analysis, regional homogeneity (ReHo) values were computed voxel-wise across the whole brain to assess local neural activity. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare differences in ROI gray matter volume and ReHo values among the four groups. Spearman^,s rank correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the association between significant brain regions and cognitive scores. ResultsStructural MRI analysis revealed a region-specific atrophy pattern, with progressively reduced gray matter volume in the left thalamus (anterior and posterior dorsal nuclei) and left sensorimotor cortices (e.g., precentral gyrus, superior parietal lobule) in higher CSVD burden groups (F values ranged from 7.533 to 9.643, all P values remained statistically significant after Bonferroni correction). Notably, the highest burden group (CSVD 4) exhibited the most severe GMV loss. Concurrently, functional MRI analysis showed significantly increased ReHo values in the left thalamus and left temporal pole in high CSVD burden groups (specifically CSVD 4 > CSVD 2 and CSVD 4 > CSVD 3; all P values remained statistically significant after FDR correction). However, no significant correlations were observed between these structural or functional metrics and cognitive scores (Mini-Mental State Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment) after multiple comparison correction. ConclusionsOur findings indicate that increased CSVD total score is accompanied by dual-pattern alterations: "thalamic-somatomotor network structural atrophy" and "active local functional compensation". These findings provide novel neuroimaging biomarkers for understanding the mechanisms of CSVD-related cognitive impairment; however, the direct correlation with cognitive performance requires further validation through larger sample sizes and longitudinal studies. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.007 ObjectiveTo investigate alterations in plasma chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1, also known as YKL-40) levels in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and their association with white matter microstructural damage. Materials and MethodsThirty patients with aMCI and 20 cognitively unimpaired (CU) controls were recruited. All participants underwent cognitive assessments, plasma YKL-40 quantification, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). A region-of-interest (ROI) - based analysis was performed to compare fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD) across selected white matter regions. Between-group differences in plasma YKL-40 levels were assessed. Partial correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between plasma YKL-40 levels and DTI parameters, and to determine their independent predictive effects. ResultsPlasma YKL-40 levels were significantly higher in the aMCI group than in the CU group (F = 4.131, P = 0.048). Compared with CU, the aMCI group showed significantly decreased FA in the body of the fornix (F = 4.295, P = 0.044) and increased MD (F = 4.933, P = 0.031), AD (F = 4.482, P = 0.040), and RD (F = 4.988, P = 0.030). Plasma YKL-40 levels were positively correlated with left cingulate MD (r = 0.392, P = 0.006), left cingulate RD (r = 0.329, P = 0.022), and right cingulate RD (r = 0.347, P = 0.016). Multiple regression analyses indicated that, after adjusting for age, sex, education, and group status, plasma YKL-40 remained independently associated with left cingulate MD (β = 0.404, P = 0.015), left cingulate RD (β = 0.341, P = 0.038), and right cingulate RD (β = 0.372, P = 0.023). ConclusionsPlasma YKL-40 levels are elevated in patients with aMCI and are closely linked to the degree of white matter microstructural disruption in the cingulate gyrus. These findings suggest that peripheral YKL-40 may serve as a potential biomarker reflecting early neuroinflammatory activity and white matter degeneration in the prodromal stage of Alzheimer^,s disease. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.008 ObjectiveTo evaluate the diagnostic efficacy and processing efficiency of an artificial intelligence (AI) assisted, combined-sequence magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) post-processing protocol that integrates conventional sequences with perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Materials and MethodsThis prospective study enrolled 200 patients with AIS who underwent MRI at the First People^,s Hospital of Hechi between June 2023 and June 2025. The imaging protocol comprised conventional sequences [T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)] and perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) sequences [arterial spin labeling (ASL), dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC)]. Two senior radiologists independently scored image quality on a 5-point Likert scale in a double-blind fashion; inter-observer agreement was assessed using weighted Kappa, and intra-observer reproducibility was evaluated with the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Using the PWI data, participants were allocated to either manual post-processing (PWI group) or AI-assisted post-processing (PWI+AI group). Both approaches involved delineating regions of interest (ROIs) and quantifying cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral blood volume (CBV). Diagnostic performance was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, with areas under the curve (AUCs) compared using DeLong^,s test. Post-processing time was recorded and compared between the two groups. ResultsSubjective image quality scores for all sequences in the PWI+AI group were ≥ 3 (clinically acceptable), with a higher proportion of 5-point scores (76.0% to 77.5%) than the PWI group (all P < 0.05). Inter-observer agreement was good (weighted Kappa: 0.754 to 0.826; 95% CI: 0.715 to 0.855), and intra-observer reproducibility was excellent (ICC = 0.82, P < 0.001). CBF and CBV values in the PWI+AI group were lower than in the PWI group for both ASL and DSC (all P < 0.001). The PWI+AI group showed superior diagnostic performance (CBF AUC = 0.815, 95% CI: 0.751 to 0.894; CBV AUC = 0.826, 95% CI: 0.765 to 0.912) compared to the PWI group (CBF AUC = 0.674; CBV AUC = 0.681; both P < 0.05). Post-processing time in the PWI + AI group was reduced by 86.2% compared to the PWI group [(2.1 ± 0.6) min vs. (15.2 ± 3.5) min, P < 0.001]. ConclusionsThe AI-assisted MRI combined-sequence post-processing protocol improves diagnostic performance and evaluation efficiency in AIS, providing reliable imaging support for emergency care and clinical decision-making. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.009 ObjectiveTo investigate the association between white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and collateral circulation in patients with unilateral middle cerebral artery atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) using three-dimensional pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling (3D-pCASL) technique. Meanwhile, to explore the correlations of WMH with the degree of vascular stenosis and cerebral blood flow (CBF). Materials and MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed on data from 100 patients with moderate to severe unilateral ICAS admitted to Shanxi Provincial People^,s Hospital from January 2022 to February 2025. Patients were divided into two groups based on the distribution range of arterial transit artifacts (ATA) in 3D-pCASL images: the good collateral circulation group (58 cases) and the poor collateral circulation group (42 cases). Independent risk factors for poor collateral circulation were identified through univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analyses. Stratified by the degree of vascular stenosis, the relationship between WMH and collateral circulation under different stenosis degrees was analyzed. CBF in the blood supply area of the affected middle cerebral artery was measured to calculate collateral blood flow and perfusion level. Combined with total WMH score grouping, the relationship between WMH and CBF was studied. ResultsStatistically significant differences were found between the good and poor collateral circulation groups in gender (χ² = 5.939), total cholesterol (t = 0.211) and low-density lipoprotein (t = 2.891) (all P < 0.05), as well as in vascular stenosis degree (χ² = 18.138), total WMH score (χ² = 20.596), deep WMH score (χ² = 27.063), and periventricular WMH score (χ² = 20.783) (all P < 0.001), all of which were statistically significant. Deep WMH scores have a higher correlation with poor collateral circulation (r = 0.565, P < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors, the degree of vascular stenosis (P = 0.006), deep WMH (P = 0.008), periventricular WMH (P = 0.017), and total WMH score (P = 0.044) were identified as independent risk factors for poor collateral circulation. Stratified analysis demonstrated that poor collateral circulation and the total WMH score were associated in patients with severe stenosis (P = 0.020), but no such association was found in patients with moderate stenosis (P = 0.125). Compared with the mild WMH group, the moderate to severe WMH group had significantly lower CBF in the affected side (P < 0.001) and forward flow ratio (Z = -3.720, P < 0.001), as well as more severe vascular stenosis (χ² = 5.850, P = 0.016). Multivariate regression analysis showed that the reduced ratio of forward flow was independently associated with moderate to severe WMH (P = 0.045). ConclusionsFor patients with unilateral middle cerebral artery atherosclerotic stenosis, WMH is identified as an independent risk factor associated with poor collateral circulation.especially in those with severe vascular stenosis, where severe WMH may impede collateral circulation formation. WMH is associated with decreased cerebral blood flow and hypoperfusion caused by vascular stenosis, but not with the stenosis degree itself. The aforementioned relationships between WMH and intracranial large-vessel stenosis may contribute to the poor prognosis of patients with coexisting ICAS and WMH, providing new insights for the treatment of such patients. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.010 ObjectiveTo explore the value of conventional MRI and perfusion weighted imaging (PWI) in differentiating high-grade gliomas (HGGs) recurrence from pseudoprogression (PsP). Materials and MethodsOne hundred and six patients with pathologically confirmed HGGs were enrolled in this retrospective study. They were divided into 65 cases in the recurrence group and 41 cases in the PsP group according to the secondary surgical pathology or Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO). Volume of interest (VOI) were delineated manually on T1-weighted contrast-enhanced imaging (CE-T1WI). MRIcroGL software was used to measure the cerebral blood volume (CBV) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in the contrast-enhancing lesions and peritumoral edema regions, as well as the CBV value in the contralateral semioval center. The relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) was defined as the ratio of CBV in the contrast-enhancing lesions to the mean CBV in the contralateral semioval center. Differences in rCBV and ADC values between recurrence and PsP groups were analyzed using independent t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests for both contrast-enhancing lesions and peritumoral edema regions. Logistic regression analysis was used to screen independent risk factors, and area under the curve (AUC) was used to assess the efficacy of the model. ResultsThe recurrence group demonstrated a higher median rCBVmax (Z = -5.829, P < 0.05) in contrast-enhancing lesions and a lower median ADCmean in both enhancing lesions (Z = -5.761, P < 0.05) and peritumoral edema (Z = -3.182, P < 0.05) compared to the PsP group. The logistic regression identified rCBV of contrast-enhancing lesion, ADC of contrast-enhancing lesion and ADC of peritumoral edema as independent predictive risk factors [odds ratio (OR) = 1.494, 0.983, 1.009; 95% CI: 1.191 to 1.874, 0.975 to 0.991, 1.003 to 1.015, all P < 0.05] The combination of these three parameters demonstrated enhanced diagnostic efficacy, with AUC of 0.921, sensitivity of 87.7% and specificity of 90.2%. ConclusionsThe multi-parameter combined model of conventional MRI and PWI can effectively differentiate postoperative recurrence of HGGs from PsP with high diagnostic efficiency, providing a reliable basis for clinical precise treatment strategy formulation and improving patient prognosis. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.011 ObjectiveTo explore the application value of left ventricular flow components based on four-dimensional flow cardiac magnetic resonance (4D Flow CMR) in evaluating left ventricular hemodynamics in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Materials and MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed on 62 AMI patients (AMI group), who were divided into LVEF-impaired subgroup (34 cases) and LVEF-preserved subgroup (28 cases) according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Meanwhile, 25 age and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled during the same period. Clinical data and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) data were collected for all subjects, including conventional cardiac function parameters, proportions of left ventricular (LV) functional flow components [direct flow (DF), retained inflow (RIF), delayed ejection flow (DEF), residual volume (RV)] and kinetic energy (KE) values, and inter-group differences were analyzed. ResultsThere were significant differences in the four flow components between AMI group and control group (all P < 0.05), namely DF [(27.4 ± 12.4)% vs. (38.4 ± 6.2)%], RIF [(17.4 ± 4.6)% vs.(15.1 ± 4.3)%], DEF [(20.9 ± 5.0)% vs. (16.5 ± 3.8)%] and RV [(33.9 ± 9.2)% vs. (30.0 ± 5.9)%]. Significant differences were found in LVEF and the four flow components between LVEF-impaired subgroup and LVEF-preserved subgroup, including LVEF [(37.5 ± 10.4)% vs. (60.6 ± 7.8)%, P < 0.001], DF [(22.4 ± 9.9)% vs. (33.4 ± 12.6)%, P < 0.001], RIF [(18.5 ± 3.9)% vs. (16.2 ± 5.2)%, P = 0.048], DEF [(22.7 ± 4.6)% vs. (18.7 ± 4.5)%, P = 0.001] and RV [(36.1 ± 10.3)% vs. (31.2 ± 7.0)%, P = 0.034]. Compared with control group, LVEF-preserved subgroup had lower DF proportion and higher DEF proportion, with statistical significance (P = 0.046, P = 0.014). The peak systolic DF KE and mean KE in AMI group were significantly lower than those in control group [25 (20, 31) μJ/mL vs. 38 (31, 45) μJ/mL, 12 (9, 18) μJ/mL vs.18 (15, 22) μJ/mL, all P < 0.001]. The correlation between left ventricular stroke volume (LVSV) and DF proportion was weaker in AMI group than in control group (r = 0.375 vs. r = 0.668), while no significant correlations were found between other flow components and LVSV in both groups (all P > 0.05). ConclusionsLeft ventricular flow component parameters derived from 4D Flow CMR have high value in evaluating left ventricular hemodynamics after AMI, which can assist in assessing left ventricular function of AMI patients and provide clues for identifying patients with potential risks after AMI. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.012 ObjectiveTo evaluate myocardial involvement in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) using multiparametric cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), compare differences between primary APS (PAPS) and secondary APS (SAPS), and explore their implications for early detection and risk stratification. Materials and MethodsThis retrospective study enrolled 30 APS patients and 30 age- and sex-matched controls who underwent CMR between January 2022 and June 2025. CMR assessment encompassed biventricular structural and functional parameters, native T1 and T2 values, extracellular volume (ECV), and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) metrics. Subgroup analysis was performed by etiology-PAPS versus SAPS. Using LGE burden (LGE%) as a continuous variable, evaluate its correlation with laboratory indicators, cardiac functional and mapping measures. ResultsCompared with the control group, APS patients showed lower biventricular ejection fractions (EF) and significantly increased left ventricular end systolic volume index (LVESVI), native T1, T2 values, ECV, and LGE% (all P < 0.05). In subgroup analysis, the SAPS group showed higher right ventricular end diastolic volume index (RVEDVI) [(78.92 ± 15.05) mL/m² vs. (59.94 ± 6.01) mL/m²], right ventricular stroke volume index (RVSVI) [(36.95 ± 10.03) mL/m² vs. (26.50 ± 4.50) mL/m²], right ventricular cardiac index (RVCI) [2.85 (2.26, 3.14) L/(min∙m²) vs. 1.93(1.54, 2.11) L/(min∙m²)], native T1 [1 294.00 (1 264.75, 1 327.00) ms vs. 1 245.00 (1 225.50, 1 297.00) ms], and ECV (32.55% ± 4.45% vs. 27.94% ± 1.86%) than the PAPS group (all P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that LGE% was moderately to strongly correlated with logNT-proBNP, LVEF (inverse), LVEDVI, LVESVI, and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (|r| = 0.411 to 0.579, all P < 0.05), but not with mapping parameters. ConclusionsMultiparametric CMR can characterize myocardial involvement in APS from both functional and tissue perspectives and differentiate the phenotypic features between PAPS and SAPS. LGE burden reflects myocardial scarring and functional impairment, whereas mapping parameters are more sensitive to diffuse interstitial injury. The combination of these parameters may facilitate risk stratification and follow-up monitoring in APS. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.013 ObjectiveTo compare the differences in major imaging features and quantitative parameters of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) between gadobenate dimeglumine (Gd-BOPTA) and gadoxetate disodium (Gd-EOB-DTPA) on dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI based on liver imaging reporting and data system version 2018 (LI-RADS v2018), and to provide evidence for the rational selection of hepatic MRI contrast agents in clinical practice. Materials and MethodsThis study retrospectively analyzed 94 patients who underwent Gd-BOPTA- or Gd-EOB-DTPA- enhanced MRI and were pathologically diagnosed with HCC at Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University between January 2020 and January 2025. Two experienced abdominal radiologists independently evaluated the major imaging features according to the LI-RADS v2018. Quantitative parameters, including tumor-to-liver contrast (TLC) and relative liver enhancement (RLE), were measured for each imaging phase and compared between the two contrast agent groups. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare both qualitative features and quantitative metrics between groups. ResultsIn qualitative analysis, detection rates of nonrim arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE), nonperipheral washout, and enhancing capsule were significantly higher in the Gd-BOPTA group (P = 0.028, P = 0.004, and P < 0.001), while no significant difference was found for hepatobiliary phase hypointensity (P = 0.748). The incidence of transient severe motion artifact in the arterial phase was higher in the Gd-EOB-DTPA group (P = 0.016). The Gd-BOPTA group showed significantly higher TLC and RLE than the Gd-EOB-DTPA group in the arterial and portal venous phases. No significant TLC difference was found in the delayed/transitional phase (P = 0.931), whereas a significant difference was observed in the hepatobiliary phase (P = 0.015). For RLE, a significant difference was noted in the delayed/transitional phase (P < 0.001), but not in the hepatobiliary phase (P = 0.759). ConclusionsGd-BOPTA can demonstrate certain advantages over Gd-EOB-DTPA in terms of both the detection rates of major imaging features defined by LI-RADS v2018 and quantitative imaging parameters, suggesting a potentially higher detection rate for HCC. These findings provide supportive imaging evidence for clinical intervention and treatment planning. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.014 ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the application value of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) and diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) in the staging diagnosis of liver fibrosis. Materials and MethodsA total of 64 patients with chronic liver disease and 17 healthy controls were prospectively enrolled. All participants underwent multi‑b‑value diffusion‑weighted imaging (DWI) and liver transient elastography (TE). Liver fibrosis stage was confirmed by subsequent liver biopsy in patients. The DWI data were post‑processed to generate five parameter maps derived from DKI and IVIM models, yielding the parameters apparent diffusivity (MD), excess kurtosis (MK), true diffusion coefficient (D), pseudo-diffusion coefficient (D^*) and perfusion fraction (f). TE provided liver stiffness measurement (LSM). Biopsy results served as the gold standard for fibrosis staging. We analyzed parameter differences across fibrosis stages, correlations between DKI/IVIM parameters and LSM, and the diagnostic performance of combined DKI, IVIM, and TE parameters for significant fibrosis (≥ S2). ResultsAmong all parameters, only D showed statistically significant differences across groups (P = 0.029). D (ρ = -0.270, P = 0.031), f (ρ = -0.288, P = 0.021), and MD (ρ = -0.278, P = 0.026) were negatively correlated with LSM. Individual imaging parameters demonstrated moderate diagnostic efficacy for significant fibrosis, with area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic ranging from 0.537 to 0.627. The IVIM model achieved an AUC of 0.714 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.598 to 0.831] for diagnosing significant fibrosis, and the DKI model reached an AUC of 0.717 (95% CI: 0.597 to 0.836). Fusion models combining IVIM with TE and DKI with TE showed significantly higher diagnostic performance, with AUCs of 0.897 (95% CI: 0.825 to 0.970) and 0.901 (95% CI: 0.825 to 0.978), respectively (P < 0.001 vs. single DWI models). Calibration curves indicated that the IVIM‑TE fusion model had the best calibration performance. ConclusionsDKI and IVIM alone are insufficient for non‑invasive diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis. However, the IVIM‑TE fusion model demonstrates promising clinical value for diagnosing significant fibrosis. Integrating multiple imaging modalities may serve as a potential biomarker for significant fibrosis assessment. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.015 ObjectiveTo investigate the correlation between the magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) of tumor tissue and the pathological grade in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Materials and MethodsA total of 75 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and were pathologically diagnosed with PDAC at the Affiliated BenQ Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from August 2024 to November 2025 were retrospectively enrolled. All patients underwent preoperative magnetization transfer imaging (MTI) to measure the MTR values within the tumor region. Other clinical and imaging parameters were also collected. Based on the degree of pathological differentiation and tumor biological behavior, patients were classified into low-grade and high-grade groups. The correlation between various parameters and PDAC pathological grade was analyzed. Categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test; normally distributed continuous variables were analyzed with the independent samples t-test, while non-normally distributed variables were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Variables with statistical significance in univariate analysis were incorporated into a binary logistic regression model. Variable selection was performed using the forward likelihood ratio method to establish a combined predictive model. The diagnostic performance of each parameter and the combined model for predicting PDAC pathological grade was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves. ResultsThe MTR value was significantly higher in the high-grade group than in the low-grade group (0.269 ± 0.059 vs. 0.196 ± 0.056), with a statistically significant inter-group difference (P < 0.001). Both age and MTR value were identified as independent predictors of PDAC pathological grade (all P < 0.05). The combined model incorporating both factors demonstrated the highest diagnostic performance, with an AUC of 0.844 (95% CI: 0.742 to 0.918), sensitivity of 76.0%, and specificity of 86.0%. This combined model was significantly superior to the age-alone model (AUC = 0.683, sensitivity = 56.0%, specificity = 78.0%, P = 0.007). Although there was no statistically significant difference in diagnostic performance compared to the MTR-alone model (AUC = 0.830, sensitivity = 84.0%, specificity = 74.0%, P = 0.563), the combined model improved specificity by 12.0%. ConclusionsMTR is significantly correlated with the pathological grade of PDAC, with higher MTR values indicating poorer tumor differentiation. The combined model suggesting its potential as a non-invasive imaging biomarker for preoperatively assessing the differentiation degree of PDAC. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.016 Objective: A quantitative comparison of placental stiffness was performed using intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion weighted imaging (IVIM-DWI) based virtual magnetic resonance elastography (vMRE) between normal and pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) syndrome pregnancies at high altitude. Materials and MethodsThis study retrospectively collected data from pregnant women who underwent MRI-IVIM examinations at Qinghai Red Cross Hospital between August 2019 and January 2022, including 44 cases (5 cases in the second trimester, 19 cases in the third trimester, and 20 cases with PIH). The virtual shear modulus (μ_diff), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), shifted ADC (sADC) values of different placental regions, and relevant clinical data were measured and recorded. Compare the differences in quantitative parameters and clinical data of placentas between the two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the curve (AUC) were employed to quantify and compare the diagnostic value of different parameters. A linear regression model was applied to analyze the influence of different factors on placental stiffness in PIH, while Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between placental stiffness and various factors in both groups. ResultsThe whole, fetal compartment, and maternal compartment placental stiffness values in the normal group were significantly lower than those in the PIH group (P < 0.05). Conversely, the whole, fetal compartment, and maternal compartment sADC and ADC values in the normal group were significantly higher than those in the PIH group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the whole placental volume and thickness_max in the normal group were greater than those in the PIH group (P < 0.05). The ROC analysis of various parameters indicated that the placental maternal compartment stiffness value demonstrated superior diagnostic efficacy for PIH [AUC = 0.902, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.808 to 0.995], with an optimal cutoff value of 5.99 kPa. Furthermore, while normal placental stiffness showed no significant correlation with gestational age (P > 0.05), it reached lowest level at 24 weeks of gestation and exhibited an increasing trend from 28 to 32 weeks. Notably, before 30 weeks of gestation, the maternal compartment of the placenta was more stiffness than the fetal side, whereas after 30 weeks, this pattern reversed. Additionally, in cases of pregnancy-induced hypertension, the maternal compartment stiffness was positively correlated with systolic blood pressure (r = 0.467, P < 0.05). ConclusionsHigh-altitude hypoxia may alter the biomechanical properties of the normal placenta. Furthermore, vMRE-measured placental stiffness is more reliable than sADC and ADC in distinguishing PIH, as PIH placentas show increased stiffness, which is influenced by systolic blood pressure. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.017 ObjectiveTo investigate the value of synthetic magnetic resonance imaging (SyMRI) in the quantitative assessment of peri-knee muscles in patients with patellar instability. Materials and MethodsA total of 45 patients with patellar instability (88 knee joints) and 30 healthy volunteers (60 knee joints) were prospectively enrolled. All subjects underwent bilateral knee SyMRI, which produced conventional contrast-weighted images and quantitative T1, T2, and proton density (PD) maps. Via the ITK-SNAP software, T1, T2, and PD values of 8 knee muscles (vastus medialis, sartorius, gracilis, semimembranosus, semitendinosus, biceps femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius) were measured on transverse images. Statistical analyses were performed to compare T1, T2, and PD values between patients and volunteers, as well as among muscles in patients.​ ResultsInter-rater reliability of T1, T2, and PD measurements by two radiologists was excellent, with intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.928, 0.954, and 0.929, respectively. Compared with healthy volunteers, patients with patellar instability showed elevated T2 values in all muscles , with significant increases in vastus medialis, semimembranosus, biceps femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus intermedius (P < 0.05). Except for the vastus intermedius, the T1 values of the remaining muscles were decreased. Statistically significant differences were noted in T1 value changes among the gracilis muscle, biceps femoris muscle, and vastus lateralis (P < 0.05). PD values decreased in all muscles but without statistical significance (P > 0.05). Wilcoxon nonparametric test showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) in T2 values between the semitendinosus and vastus medialis among patients with patellar instability, whereas significant differences (P < 0.05) were noted between the vastus medialis and all other muscles. ConclusionsQuantitative parameters of SyMRI sequences can assist in the quantitative assessment of peri-knee muscles in patients with patellar instability. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.018 ObjectiveTo longitudinally and dynamically assess the temporal patterns of white matter evolution after hypoxic-ischemic (HI) injury in neonatal rats using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and to explore its correlation with both short-term and long-term neurobehavioral outcomes. Materials and MethodsA total of twenty-six 7-day-old Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to either a sham operation group (Sham) or a HI group, with 13 rats in each group. Among them, 10 rats in each group were used for subsequent long-term in vivo magnetic resonance imaging scanning and neurobehavioral assessments, while the remaining 3 rats were sacrificed 24 hours after HI for brain collection, to be used for Western blot (WB) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The HI model was established using the modified Rice-Vannucci method. The Sham group underwent identical surgical procedures except for common carotid artery ligation and hypoxia. Post-modeling, body weight was monitored daily for 7 days, and brain infarction volume was assessed via T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) at 24 hours post-HI. DTI scans were performed on days 1, 3, and 7 post-HI, and fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD) were measured in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and corpus callosum. The expression levels of IL-1β and TNF-α were detected by WB and qRT-PCR. Neurobehavioral assessments were conducted from post-operative day 1 to day 30, with short-term evaluations including the negative geotaxis test and the 28-point neuroscore, and long-term evaluations comprising the rotarod test, open field test, Y-maze, and novel object recognition test. ResultsCompared to the Sham group, the HI group exhibited a reduced body weight gain rate within 7 days post-HI (P < 0.05), increased cerebral infarction volume at 24 hours post-HI, and up-regulated expression of the inflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF-α in brain tissue (P < 0.001). The HI group showed a progressive decrease in FA values and an increase in MD, AD, and RD values across the three brain regions starting from post-HI day 1. Behaviorally, the HI group demonstrated prolonged negative geotaxis latency, shortened rotarod fall latency, reduced percentage of time spent in the center of the open field, decreased discrimination index in the novel object recognition test, and lowered spontaneous alternation rate in the Y-maze (all P < 0.001). Regarding the regional differences in the association, FA values in the cerebral cortex were closely associated with motor function (e.g., positively correlated with rotarod performance, r = 0.82, P < 0.001), while hippocampal FA values were highly correlated with cognitive performance (e.g., positively correlated with Y-maze performance, r = 0.77, P < 0.001). In terms of temporal evolution, the correlation between white matter metrics and short-term behavioral performance strengthened from day 1 to day 7. DTI parameters on day 7 versus long-term behaviors indicated that FA values in multiple brain regions were positively correlated with rotarod performance, the 28-point neuroscore, open field activity, Y-maze performance, and novel object recognition, whereas MD, AD, and RD values showed negative correlations. ConclusionsIt was found that HI injury in neonatal rats induced progressive white matter damage accompanied by neuroinflammation, which was most severe on day 7, correlated closely with neurobehavioral deficits. Moreover, this association exhibited distinct region-dependent differences, characterized by motor deficits being primarily linked to white matter injury in the cerebral cortex, whereas cognitive impairments were more closely associated with hippocampal damage. Therefore, early DTI parameters hold promise as potential imaging biomarkers for assessing injury severity and predicting long-term neurological outcomes, providing a critical time window and theoretical foundation for early clinical intervention. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.019 ObjectiveBased on 1.5 T MRI, this study aims to compare the image quality and clinical value of conventional T2-fluid attenuated inversion recovery (T2-FLAIR) reconstruction and fast T2-FLAIR deep learning (DL) reconstruction in patients with intracranial space occupying lesions, and explore the optimal DL reconstruction parameters. Materials and MethodsA total of 104 patients with intracranial space occupying lesions were prospectively enrolled, and routine T2-FLAIR and fast T2-FLAIR (parallel imaging, PI acceleration factor 2) were collected separately. Conventional T2-FLAIR adopts traditional reconstruction, denoted as NDL; Fast T2-FLAIR selects DL reconstruction levels 2, 3, and 4, denoted as PI-DL2, PI-DL3, and PI-DL4. The four groups of images were evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively by two doctors in blind state, and the size and quantity of lesions were recorded. Quantitative evaluation includes signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Qualitative evaluation includes image sharpness, noise, gray white contrast, artifacts, lesion display, diagnostic confidence, and overall image quality. ResultsThe conventional T2-FLAIR scan time was 2 minutes and 8 seconds, while the fast T2-FLAIR scan time was 1 minute and 20 seconds, resulting in a time reduction of approximately 37.5%. Quantitative analysis showed that compared with NDL, the SNR of each DL reconstruction group (level 2, 3, 4) was improved, and increased with the increase of DL level (P < 0.05). The CNR of PI-DL4 was significantly higher than the other three groups (P < 0.05), while there was no statistically significant difference in the CNR of PI-DL2 in the corpus callosum, brainstem, and cerebellar regions compared to the NDL group (P > 0.05). In terms of qualitative evaluation, the consistency of the two diagnostic physicians^, evaluations is good. PI-DL4 performed the best in terms of image sharpness, noise control, and overall image quality (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in gray white matter contrast, lesion display, and diagnostic confidence between PI-DL4 and PI-DL3 (P > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between PI-DL2 and NDL in various qualitative evaluation indicators (P > 0.05). In the detection of lesions, the detection rate of DL group was higher than that of NDL group, and there was no statistically significant difference in size measurement (P > 0.05). ConclusionsIn 1.5 T MRI, combining DL reconstruction algorithm with PI acceleration technology can significantly improve the image quality and lesion display ability of T2-FLAIR sequence, and effectively shorten the scanning time. Because DL level 4 may reduce the contrast of some lesions, DL level 3 is recommended as the best reconstruction parameter of T2-FLAIR sequence for intracranial space occupying lesions. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.021 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.022 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.023 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.024 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.025 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.026 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.027 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.028 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.029 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.030 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.031 ^, quality of life. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) serves as the primary imaging modality for preoperative assessment of supraspinatus tendon injuries. However, conventional image interpretation relies heavily on radiologists^, subjective judgment and lacks precise evaluation of tear localization. Deep learning-based approaches utilizing MRI, which have brouken through the conventional subjective viewing habits of humans, can facilitate objective quantitative assessment of supraspinatus tendon injuries, enhancing diagnostic accuracy among radiologists, thereby guiding the formulation of individualized treatment strategies and improving patient prognosis. While numerous studies have explored deep learning methodologies for rotator cuff injury assessment, there remains a paucity of comprehensive reviews systematically evaluating existing research. This review synthesizes current literature on deep learning applications for supraspinatus tendon injury assessment, systematically examines clinical and imaging evaluation of supraspinatus tendon injuries, deep learning applications, current research limitations, and future directions. It explicitly identifies core challenges and technical bottlenecks, offers targeted references for clinical translation, and proposes actionable future research directions. The review highlights key areas for potential breakthroughs, aiming to advance the standardization, precision, and clinical applicability of supraspinatus tendon injury assessment, ultimately alleviating the disease burden on patients. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.032 ^, health. At present, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and quantitative computed tomography (QCT), the gold standards in clinical practice, have limitations such as low popularity, high radiation dose or high cost. In contrast, opportunistic screening based on conventional computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a research hotspot for the early diagnosis of OP, as it requires no additional costs or radiation exposure. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has further improved screening efficiency. However, current research progress in this field is relatively fragmented and has not yet formed a systematic integration, so it is necessary to refine core findings through a comprehensive review. This review systematically summarizes recent research advances in opportunistic screening for OP based on conventional CT and MRI, analyzes the application value of AI technology in this field, clarifies the limitations of existing studies including inconsistent diagnostic thresholds, pending optimization of calibration algorithms and insufficient model standardization, and discusses future development directions. This paper aims to provide a reference for the early diagnosis of OP and the optimization of clinical screening strategies, as well as to offer guidance for relevant clinical research. ]]> Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.033 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://med-sci.cn/cgzcx/en/en_articlexml.asp?doi=10.12015/issn.1674-8034.2026.02.034 Fri,20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT