- Application of Deep Learning to Predict Standardized Uptake Value Ratio and Amyloid Status on 18F-Florbetapir PET Using ADNI Data
Using the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative dataset, the authors identified 2582 18F-florbetapir PET scans, which were separated into positive and negative cases by using a standardized uptake value ratio threshold of 1.1. They trained convolutional neural networks to predict standardized uptake value ratio and classify amyloid status. The best performance was seen for ResNet-50 by using regression before classification, 3 input PET slices, and pretraining, with a standardized uptake value ratio root-mean-squared error of 0.054, corresponding to 95.1% correct amyloid status prediction. The best trained network was more accurate than humans (96% versus a mean of 88%, respectively). They conclude that deep learning algorithms can estimate standardized uptake value ratio and use this to classify 18F-florbetapir PET scans and have promise to automate this laborious calculation.
- Fetal and Neonatal MRI Predictors of Aggressive Early Clinical Course in Vein of Galen Malformation
The authors aimed to identify brain MR imaging characteristics obtained from fetal and early neonatal scans that can predict the clinical presentation. A total of 32 neonatal patients (21 patients in the neonatal at-risk cohort, 11 in the infantile treatment cohort) were identified. Maximal mediolateral diameter and cross-sectional area at the narrowest point of the straight/falcine sinus were most predictive of clinical evolution into the neonatal at-risk cohort. This measurement clearly and unambiguously differentiated between high- and low-risk cohorts. The ability to accurately predict clinical evolution after birth based on fetal MR imaging can be of help for both caregivers and families, enabling better preparedness for urgent treatment and better planning for allocation of resources.
- Counterpoint: Conventional Fluoroscopy-Guided Selective Cervical Nerve Root Block—A Safe, Effective, and Efficient Modality in the Hands of an Experienced Proceduralist
Two-hundred fifty-four conventional fluoroscopy-guided selective cervical nerve root blocks were performed via an anterolateral approach with an average fluoroscopy time of 24.3 seconds for all cases. There were no aborted procedures and no major or permanent complications. There were 14 minor complications; 12 of these were periprocedural and resolved by the 2-week follow-up visit. One-hundred eighty-five patients (75.2%) reported pain improvement of >50% from baseline at 15 minutes postinjection. The authors conclude that this study confirms that conventional fluoroscopy is as safe and effective as CT for the guidance of selective cervical nerve root block when using a meticulous technique and a nonparticulate steroid and performed by an experienced proceduralist.
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