3 research outputs found
Motion robust MR fingerprinting scan to image neonates with prenatal opioid exposure
Background: A noninvasive and sensitive imaging tool is needed to assess the
fast-evolving baby brain. However, using MRI to study non-sedated babies faces
roadblocks, including high scan failure rates due to subjects motion and the
lack of quantitative measures for assessing potential developmental delays.
This feasibility study explores whether MR Fingerprinting scans can provide
motion-robust and quantitative brain tissue measurements for non-sedated
infants with prenatal opioid exposure, presenting a viable alternative to
clinical MR scans. Assessment: MRF image quality was compared to pediatric MRI
scans using a fully crossed, multiple reader multiple case study. The
quantitative T1 and T2 values were used to assess brain tissue changes between
babies younger than one month and babies between one and two months.
Statistical Tests: Generalized estimating equations (GEE) model was performed
to test the significant difference of the T1 and T2 values from eight white
matter regions of babies under one month and those are older. MRI and MRF image
quality were assessed using Gwets second order auto-correlation coefficient
(AC2) with its confidence levels. We used the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test to
assess the difference in proportions between MRF and MRI for all features and
stratified by the type of features. Results: In infants under one month of age,
the T1 and T2 values are significantly higher (p<0.005) compared to those
between one and two months. A multiple-reader and multiple-case study showed
superior image quality ratings in anatomical features from the MRF images than
the MRI images. Conclusions: This study suggested that the MR Fingerprinting
scans offer a motion-robust and efficient method for non-sedated infants,
delivering superior image quality than clinical MRI scans and additionally
providing quantitative measures to assess brain development
Plugging the leak in Dengue shock
Recent structural and functional advances provide fresh insight into the biology of the dengue virus non-structural protein, NS1 and suggest new avenues of research. The work of our lab and others have shown that the secreted, hexameric form of NS1 has a systemic toxic effect, inducing inflammatory cytokines and acting directly on endothelial cells to produce the hallmark of dengue disease, vascular leak. We also demonstrated that NS1 exerts its toxic activity through recognition by the innate immune receptor TLR4, mimicking the bacterial endotoxin LPS. This monograph covers the background underpinning these new findings and discusses new avenues for antiviral and vaccine intervention