- Ensemble of Convolutional Neural Networks Improves Automated Segmentation of Acute Ischemic Lesions Using Multiparametric Diffusion-Weighted MRI
Convolutional neural networks were trained on combinations of DWI, ADC, and low b-value-weighted images from 116 subjects. The performances of the networks (measured by the Dice score, sensitivity, and precision) were compared with one another and with ensembles of 5 networks. An ensemble of convolutional neural networks trained on DWI, ADC, and low b-value-weighted images produced the most accurate acute infarct segmentation over individual networks. Automated volumes correlated with manually measured volumes for the independent cohort.
- A Novel Collateral Imaging Method Derived from Time-Resolved Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MR Angiography in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Pilot Study
The purpose of this study was to introduce a multiphase MRA collateral map derived from time-resolved dynamic contrast-enhanced MRA and to verify the value of the multiphase MRA collateral map in acute ischemic stroke by comparing it with the multiphase collateral imaging method (MRP collateral map) derived from dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced MR perfusion. The authors generated collateral maps using dynamic signals from dynamic contrast-enhanced MRA and DSC-MRP in 67 patients using a Matlab-based in-house program and graded the collateral scores of the multiphase MRA collateral map and the MRP collateral map independently. Interobserver reliabilities and intermethod agreement between both collateral maps for collateral grading were tested. The interobserver reliabilities forcollateral grading using multiphase MRA or MRP collateral maps were excellent. They conclude that the dynamic signals of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRA can generate multiphasecollateral images and show the possibility of the multiphase MRA collateral map as a useful collateral imaging method in acute ischemic stroke.
- Surveillance of Unruptured Intracranial Saccular Aneurysms Using Noncontrast 3D-Black-Blood MRI: Comparison of 3D-TOF and Contrast-Enhanced MRA with 3D-DSA
Sixty-four patients with 68 saccular unruptured intracranial aneurysms were recruited. Patients underwent 3T MR imaging with 3D-TOF-MRA, 3D black-blood MR imaging, and contrast-enhanced MRA, and they underwent 3D rotational angiography within 2 weeks. The neck, width, and height of the unruptured intracranial aneurysms were measured by 2 radiologists independently on 3D rotational angiography and 3 MR imaging sequences. 3D black-blood MR imaging demonstrates the best agreement with DSA, with the smallest limits of agreement and measurement error. 3D-TOF-MRA had the largest limits of agreement and measurement error. The authors conclude that 3D black-blood MR imaging achieves better accuracy for aneurysm size measurements compared with 3D-TOF, using 3D rotational angiography as a criterion standard.