Magnetic Resonance Imaging Investigation Research Articles

The value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in cervical cancer assessed in comparison with magnetic resonance imaging

Introduction. Currently, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most commonly used imaging method in the assessment of the loco-regional extension in cervical cancer. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (abbreviated CEUS) is being investigated as an alternative or complement to the MRI investigation. Objectives. To evaluate the performance of CEUS in identifying loco-regional invasion of cervical cancer compared to MRI, considered the accepted reference standard. Method. Sixty-one patients with histopathologically confirmed cervical cancer were investigated as part of the pre-treatment workup by CEUS and MRI. We calculated the accuracy and concordance of CEUS versus MRI for tumor invasion in the vagina, bladder, rectum, parametrium, and uterus. For the time-intensity curve associated parameters analyzed (TTPK, AUC, peak intensity, wash in and wash out gradient) we calculated sensitivity, specificity and threshold value of positivity, for tumor invasion at the above-mentioned sites, with graphical representation of the ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve. Results. CEUS was highly accurate in detecting bladder (93.4%, 95% CI: 87.2- 99.6) and uterine invasion (88.5%, 95% CI: 80.5-96.5). Substantial agreement between CEUS and MRI was observed for invasion in the uterine body (k=0.77, 95% CI: 0.56-0.98) and bladder (k=0.56, 95% CI: 0.35-0.77). ROC curve analysis for loco-regional invasions showed that the wash in gradient at a cut-off value of 2.23 had a sensitivity of 76% and a specificity of 67% in predicting uterine invasion. Conclusions. Our results demonstrate high accuracy and good agreement between CEUS and MRI regarding especially uterine and bladder invasion. This imaging method could help select patients in early stages for fertility sparing surgery, and also be of use in cases in which early bladder invasion is suspected.

A comprehensive MRI investigation to identify potential biomarkers of Osgood Schlatter disease in adolescents: A cross sectional study comparing Osgood Schlatter disease with controls.

Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is the most common knee pain complaintamong adolescents playing sports. Despite this, there remains controversy over the pathophysiology and whether specific anatomical characteristics are associated with OSD. This study aimed to systematically and comprehensively characterize adolescents with OSD using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared to pain-free controls, including both tissue abnormalities that may be associated with OSD, as well as anatomical characteristics. A secondary objective was to identify potential imaging biomarkers associated with pain. Cross-sectional study. Adolescents with OSD and controls were recruited from 2020 to 2022. Following a clinical exam, demographics, pain, sports participation, and Tanner stage were collected. Knee MRI was conducted on the participants' most symptomatic knee (OSD) or the dominant leg (controls). Sixty-seven adolescents (46 with OSD and 30 controls) were included. 80% of participants with OSD had at least one tissue alteration compared to 54% of controls. Compared to controls, OSD had 36.3 (95%CI 4.5 to 289.7) higher odds of bony oedema at the tibial tuberosity, and 32.7 (95%CI 4.1 to 260.6) and 5.3 (95%CI 0.6 to 46.2) higher odds of bony oedema at the tibial epiphysis and metaphysis respectively. Participants with OSD also had higher odds of fluid/oedema at the patellar tendon (12.3 95%CI 3.3 to 46.6), and superficial infrapatellar bursitis (7.2). Participants with OSD had a more proximal tendon attachment (mean tibial attachment portion difference, -0.05, 95% CI: -0.1 to 0.0, p = 0.02), tendon thickness (proximal mean difference, -0.09, 95% CI: -0.4 to 0.2, p = 0.04; distal mean difference, -0.6, 95% CI: -0.9 to -0.2, p = 0.01). Those with bony/tendon oedema had 1.8 points (95% CI: 0.3 to 3.2) higher pain on palpation than those without (t = -2.5, df = 26.6, p = 0.019), but there was no difference between these groups in a functional single leg pain provocation. Adolescents with OSD present with tissue and structural abnormalities on MRI that differed from age-matched controls. The majority had findings in the patellar tendon and bone, which often co-occurred. However, a small proportion of OSD also presents without alterations. It appears these findings may be associated with clinical OSD-related pain on palpation of the tibial tuberosity. Our highlight the pathophysiology on imaging, which has implications for understanding the mechanism and treatment of OSD.

A longitudinal MRI and TSPO PET-based investigation of brain region-specific neuroprotection by diazepam versus midazolam following organophosphate-induced seizures

Acute poisoning with organophosphorus cholinesterase inhibitors (OPs), such as OP nerve agents and pesticides, can cause life threatening cholinergic crisis and status epilepticus (SE). Survivors often experience significant morbidity, including brain injury, acquired epilepsy, and cognitive deficits. Current medical countermeasures for acute OP poisoning include a benzodiazepine to mitigate seizures. Diazepam was long the benzodiazepine included in autoinjectors used to treat OP-induced seizures, but it is now being replaced in many guidelines by midazolam, which terminates seizures more quickly, particularly when administered intramuscularly. While a direct correlation between seizure duration and the extent of brain injury has been widely reported, there are limited data comparing the neuroprotective efficacy of diazepam versus midazolam following acute OP intoxication. To address this data gap, we used non-invasive imaging techniques to longitudinally quantify neuropathology in a rat model of acute intoxication with the OP diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) with and without post-exposure intervention with diazepam or midazolam. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to monitor neuropathology and brain atrophy, while positron emission tomography (PET) with a radiotracer targeting translocator protein (TSPO) was utilized to assess neuroinflammation. Animals were scanned at 3, 7, 28, 65, 91, and 168 days post-DFP and imaging metrics were quantitated for the hippocampus, amygdala, piriform cortex, thalamus, cerebral cortex and lateral ventricles. In the DFP-intoxicated rat, neuroinflammation persisted for the duration of the study coincident with progressive atrophy and ongoing tissue remodeling. Benzodiazepines attenuated neuropathology in a region-dependent manner, but neither benzodiazepine was effective in attenuating long-term neuroinflammation as detected by TSPO PET. Diffusion MRI and TSPO PET metrics were highly correlated with seizure severity, and early MRI and PET metrics were positively correlated with long-term brain atrophy. Collectively, these results suggest that anti-seizure therapy alone is insufficient to prevent long-lasting neuroinflammation and tissue remodeling.

Orbital Tumor Misdiagnosed as Optic Neuritis in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient: A Case Report

Abstract
 Introduction : Unilateral blurred vision and optic nerve swelling are the two most common signs of optic neuritis (ON). However, ON is rarely reported in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), thus necessitating further diagnostic workup.
 Case Illustration : A 42-year-old woman visited our hospital with strabismus and progressive loss of vision in her left eye since three months ago. She had been treated with pulse dose steroid for suspected ON. She had been diagnosed with RA over five years and treated with immunomodulatory medication. Left eye examination revealed best corrected visual acuity of 20/50, proptosis, esotropia with painless limitation in temporal movement. Afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) and optic nerve swelling were present. OCT assessment revealed reduction in RNFL thickness. Further magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) investigation revealed a 2.35 x 2.6 x 1.8 cm mass in the left intraconal retrobulbar, in proximity to the medial optic nerve, which suggests a case of orbital Schwanoma. Excisional biopsy was performed and revealed a benign tumor.
 Discussion : Intraconal tumor may falsely be diagnosed as an optic neuritis in autoimmune patient. Neuro- ophthalmologic symptoms of systemic inflammatory in the optic nerve includes unilateral acute visual loss and pain in eye movement. Signs of ON includes RAPD, disc edema, and corresponding visual field defect. MRI of the optic nerve can assist diagnostic workup.
 Conclusion : The exact diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis-associated ocular manifestations is challenging. Imaging using MRI might be needed to provide clarity in the diagnosis.

The role of preoperative MRI in endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal hypophysectomy of pituitary adenoma.

The trans-sphenoidal approach, commonly used for removing pituitary adenomas, has become a widely accepted and successful method. In recent years, the endoscopic trans-sphenoidal technique has emerged as a minimally invasive surgical approach for pituitary adenoma removal. The majority of pituitary adenomas exhibit a soft consistency and can be successfully extracted with aspiration and curettage using the trans-sphenoidal approach. However, a subset of around 5-15% of these adenomas possess a solid and fibrous texture. The occurrence of firm and fibrous adenomas is relatively common; unfortunately, there are no reliable predictors to identify them preoperatively. The ability to forecast the reliability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) holds promise for improving prior preparation and impacts the extent of resection. A cross-sectional analysis of the investigation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in relation to cancer histology was performed on 68 patients who had endoscopic trans-nasal excision for nonfunctional adenomas. The determination of an intensity ratio was performed by employing quantitative estimates of MRI signal intensity obtained from both the adenoma and pons. During the surgical procedure, a series of sequential-graded procedures were used for the removal of tumours with varying consistencies. Softer tumours were addressed using the Suction technique (R1), while tumours of intermediate consistency were treated using curettes (R2). In order to evaluate the fibrotic content of firmer tumours, the utilization of Cavitron Ultrasound Surgical Aspirator(CUSA), and/or other micro-instruments (R3) was employed, with the histologic collagen fraction being quantified. In order to investigate and analyse the data, a statistical analysis was conducted. A predictive relationship between resection category and both intensity ratio, and collagen percentage was noted. The primary objective of this study was to determine the appropriate cutoff criteria for clinical utilization, as well as to investigate the association between intensity ratios and collagen percentage. Tumors with ratios ≤ 1.6 on the T2-weighted image and collagen content > 5.3% required more meticulous and sharp dissection for resection. The utilization of MRI analysis may offer some assistance, but not conclusive, in the prediction of tumour consistency.

Massa intermedia in adults: incidence, dimension, location and clinical importance.

This retrospective magnetic resonance imaging investigation aimed to obtain information related to the anatomy of the massa intermedia (MI) in an adult population. The work conducted on MRI views of 1058 (539 males and 519 females) healthy adult samples aged with 48.93 ± 17.63 years. Initially, the presence or absence of MI was noted, and then if present, its numbers and location in the third ventricle were recorded. Its horizontal (HDMI) and vertical (VDMI) diameters were measured on MRI views, while the cross-sectional area (CSAMI) was calculated using its diameters. MI was missing in 2.6% (27 cases) of 1058 adult samples. Six subjects (0.6%) had a double MI. HDMI, VDMI and CSAMI were measured as 4.83 ± 1.01mm, 4.86 ± 0.98mm, and 19.11 ± 7.23 mm2, respectively. MI size did not show a significant alteration from 19 up to 49 years, but then its size distinctly decreased between 50 and 60 years. After age 60, MI dimension did not display an important change. MI was settled in the antero-superior quadrant in 929 cases (90.63% of 1025 subjects), in the postero-superior quadrant in 22 cases (2.15%), in the antero-inferior quadrant in 32 cases (3.12%), in the postero-inferior quadrant in 8 cases (0.78%), and in the central part in 34 cases (3.32%). The size, position and incidence of MI were not affected by sex, and its position and incidence were not affected by adult age periods. In adults, MI size demonstrated a significant decrease in the middle age.

Characteristics of Hirayama Disease in Young South Korean Soldiers.

The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical presentation and features in electrodiagnostic and imaging investigations of young South Korean males diagnosed with Hirayama disease (HD). We reviewed the electronic medical records of South Korean enlisted soldiers who were diagnosed with HD and discharged from military service during 2011-2021. We investigated the clinical characteristics and results of electrodiagnostic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) investigations. We analyzed laterality and identified the involved muscles using needle electromyography (EMG). Loss of lordosis, localized cervical cord atrophy, loss of attachment between the posterior dura and subjacent lamina, asymmetric flattening of the cord, crescent-shaped mass in the posterior epidural space, and noncompressive intramedullary T2-weighted high signal intensity were investigated using neutral- or flexion-position MRI. Forty-two male patients aged 20.2±0.8 years (mean±standard deviation) were identified. All patients complained of hand weakness, and 10 complained of hand tremor (23.8%). Four patients (9.5%) had symptoms in both upper limbs, and five (11.9%) had sensory disturbances. Needle EMG revealed that muscles in the C7-T1 myotome were commonly involved, and C5-C6 involvement of the deltoid (10.5%) and biceps brachii (12.5%) was also observed. In cervical MRI, localized cord atrophy (90.0%) was the most characteristic finding, and cord atrophy was most severe at the C5-C6 level (58.3%). This is the first description of a large number of patients with HD in South Korea. The clinical presentation and features found in electrodiagnostic and imaging investigations will improve the understanding of HD in the young South Korean male population.

A novel approach for gingiva thickness measurements around lower anterior teeth by means of dental magnetic resonance imaging

ObjectiveThis diagnostic accuracy study aims to present the first measurements of gingiva thickness around lower anterior teeth using dental magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to compare these measurements with two established methods: (1) gingival phenotype assessment via periodontal probing, and (2) the superimposition of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans with intraoral scans of teeth and gums.Materials and methodsTen patients with substantial orthodontic treatment need and anterior mandibular crowding were consecutively included in this clinical case series. After periodontal probing, each patient underwent a CBCT scan, an intraoral scan of the mandible, and an MRI investigation using a novel mandibula 15-channel dental coil.ResultsThe mean gingiva thickness was 0.72 mm measured on MRI and 0.97 mm measured on CBCT, with a mean difference between the measurement methods of 0.17 ± 0.27 mm (p < 0.001). Measurement agreement between the index tests (MRI and CBCT) and the clinical reference standard (probing) yielded an overall percent agreement of 64.94% and 47.02% for MRI and CBCT, respectively. Teeth with thin phenotypes were associated with lower soft tissue dimensions in both free (MRI: 0.56 mm vs. CBCT: 0.79 mm) and supracrestal gingiva (MRI: 0.75 mm vs. CBCT: 1.03 mm) when compared to those with thick phenotypes. However, only the measurements obtained from MRI scans showed statistically significant differences between the two phenotypes.ConclusionDental MRI successfully visualizes delicate structures like the gingiva in the anterior mandible and achieves a high correlation with superimposed CBCT scans, with clinically acceptable deviations.Clinical relevanceThe present study helps to establish dental MRI as a radiation-free alternative to conventional radiographic methods.

Brain functional connectivity patterns associated with symptoms of vestibular migraine.

Several functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) investigations of patients with vestibular migraine (VM) have revealed abnormal functionality in different networks, indicating that VM is related to alterations in brain function. We sought to investigate the resting-state functional connectivity (FC) patterns during the interictal period in VM by combining data-driven voxel-wise degree centrality (DC) calculations and seed-based FC analyses, and thereby determine the associations between cerebral function and clinical symptoms. Thirty-eight patients with VM and 33 matched normal controls were recruited. DC was calculated and compared between the groups, and the FC of locations showing DC alterations was further tested using a seed-based technique. The participants' clinical indicators were correlated with the DC and FC values of the brain areas. In contrast to the control group, the VM group showed considerably lower DC values in the bilateral medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and significantly higher DC values in the right occipital lobe. In the seed-based FC analyses, patients with VM demonstrated fewer connections of the bilateral mPFC with the bilateral posterior cingulate cortex, right parahippocampus, right cerebellar posterior lobe, bilateral cuneus, and left precuneus. In addition, clinical data from patients, such as pain intensity, episode frequency, and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory score, were negatively related to these FC and DC impairments. Our findings showed changes in the default mode network and visual cortex in patients with VM, providing further insights into the complexity of the mechanisms underlying VM.

High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging investigation of the connection between the triglyceride-glucose index and intracranial arterial remodeling: a retrospective cross-sectional study.

Insulin resistance (IR) is associated with atherosclerotic plaque progression and the occurrence of stroke, with the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index serving as a surrogate indicator. The present study aimed to investigate the association between TyG index levels and intracranial arterial remodeling in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Patients with AIS who visited the Neurology Department of the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University and underwent high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI) between September 2018 and October 2021 were enrolled. A total of 123 patients were finally included in the study, with 81 excluded. The TyG index levels were measured, and the characteristics of intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) plaques were evaluated using HR-MRI. A logistic regression model was employed to analyze the relationship between TyG index levels and remodeling mode. Patients were divided into two groups, positive remodeling (PR) and non-positive remodeling (non-PR), based on the remodeling index (RI). Patients in the PR group had a higher TyG index than those in the non-PR group {median [interquartile range (IQR)]: 9.11 (8.82-9.51) vs. 8.72 (8.30-9.23), P<0.001}. After adjusting factors such as age and gender, the TyG index was found to be significantly correlated with intracranial arterial PR [odds ratio (OR): 3.169, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.327-7.569, P=0.009]. In non-diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, the TyG index level in the PR group was significantly higher than that in the non-PR group (8.95±0.42 vs. 8.50±0.45, P<0.001), whereas there was no such difference in patients with DM. TyG index was correlated with intracranial vessel PR, indicating that the TyG index level may be a useful marker for predicting intracranial vessel PR.

Establishing the Roles of the Dorsal and Ventral Striatum in Humor Comprehension and Appreciation with fMRI.

Humor comprehension (i.e., getting a joke) and humor appreciation (i.e., enjoying a joke) are distinct, cognitively complex processes. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) investigations have identified several key cortical regions but have overlooked subcortical structures that have theoretical importance in humor processing. The dorsal striatum (DS) contributes to working memory, ambiguity processing, and cognitive flexibility, cognitive functions that are required to accurately recognize humorous stimuli. The ventral striatum (VS) is critical in reward processing and enjoyment. We hypothesized that the DS and VS play important roles in humor comprehension and appreciation, respectively. We investigated the engagement of these regions in these distinct processes using fMRI. Twenty-six healthy young male and female human adults completed two humor-elicitation tasks during a 3 tesla fMRI scan consisting of a traditional behavior-based joke task and a naturalistic audiovisual sitcom paradigm (i.e., Seinfeld viewing task). Across both humor-elicitation methods, whole-brain analyses revealed cortical activation in the inferior frontal gyrus, the middle frontal gyrus, and the middle temporal gyrus for humor comprehension, and the temporal cortex for humor appreciation. Additionally, with region of interest analyses, we specifically examined whether DS and VS activation correlated with these processes. Across both tasks, we demonstrated that humor comprehension implicates both the DS and the VS, whereas humor appreciation only engages the VS. These results establish the role of the DS in humor comprehension, which has been previously overlooked, and emphasize the role of the VS in humor processing more generally.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Humorous stimuli are processed by the brain in at least two distinct stages. First, humor comprehension involves understanding humorous intent through cognitive and problem-solving mechanisms. Second, humor appreciation involves enjoyment, mirth, and laughter in response to a joke. The roles of smaller subcortical brain regions in humor processing, such as the DS and VS, have been overlooked in previous investigations. However, these regions are involved in functions that support humor comprehension (e.g., working memory ambiguity resolution, and cognitive flexibility) and humor appreciation (e.g., reward processing, pleasure, and enjoyment). In this study, we used neuroimaging to demonstrate that the DS and VS play important roles in humor comprehension and appreciation, respectively, across two different humor-elicitation tasks.

Artificial intelligence systems in surgery: A review of opportunities, limitations, and prospects

Artificial intelligence technologies are increasingly being applied in a variety of medical disciplines. After reviewing 278 publications from 1985 to 2023, 99 articles were selected from the databases elibrary, PubMed, Medline, WoS, Nature, Springer, and Wiley J Database to present the main approaches and a modern picture of the application of artificial intelligence methods and technologies in pediatric surgery and intensive care. The article examines many facets of artificial intelligence systems for medical uses, namely, computer decision support systems or supporting the surgeon throughout the surgical intervention procedure. Computer analysis of 3D visualization and 3D anatomical modeling of images obtained from computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging investigations can be used to plan operations. Because of the possibilities of sufficiently accurate 3D models and methods for organs and pathological processes, various methodologies and software tools for preoperative planning and intraoperative support of surgical intervention have been developed. Computer (technical) vision analyzes high-quality medical images and interprets them in multimodal three-dimensional images for computer diagnoses and operations under visual control, including augmented reality methods. Robotic surgery involves manipulators, including remotely controlled ones, and intellectualized complexes that independently perform specific actions of the second assistant surgeon. In intensive care, artificial intelligence technologies are being investigated to merge data from bedside monitors and other information about patients conditions to identify critical situations and control mechanical ventilation. Simultaneously, several obstacles impede the adoption of artificial intelligence in surgery. The nature and standardization of the initial data required for their integration, taking into consideration atypical cases, the possibility of bias in the sample used, and the transparency of the decision-making process in machine learning models are examples. The explanation of solutions presented in machine learning models and the transition to full-fledged validation of the systems being built define the prospects for developing and using artificial intelligence systems.

Addressing the communication needs of cancer patients for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) investigations–A phenomenological study on the experiences of MRI radiographers

IntroductionA higher demand in MRI services could increase the pressure on MRI departments to increase scanning efficiency. This presents the risk of downplaying person-centred care especially for cancer patients with increased communication needs that result from anxiety associated with the nature of their disease. This study explored the experiences of MRI radiographers in addressing the communication needs of cancer patients attending for MRI examinations. MethodsThe study adopted a descriptive phenomenological methodology. Single contact interviews were conducted on eight MRI specialist radiographers, and these were recorded and transcribed using Microsoft Teams conferencing platform. Thematic analysis of the transcribed data was done through an inductive approach, breaking down the data into meaningful codes and thereafter, into themes and sub-themes. ResultsCommon themes generated from the interview data included: identified communication needs, approach to communication needs, support for radiographers and factors affecting communication. Experiences of MRI radiographers indicated increased communication needs in anxious cancer patients and approaches adopted in addressing these were mainly through listening and use of empathetic gestures. Some radiographers admitted to using “blocking” strategies to avoid being drawn into emotionally exhausting conversations. Both intrinsic factors such as radiographers' personality and experience; and extrinsic factors such as time constraints, demanding workload, inadequate staffing, and skill mix were noted to influenced MRI radiographers in addressing these communication needs. ConclusionCancer patients can present with communication needs due to anxieties related to their disease. For the radiographer to deal with these needs, adequate support is needed, and necessary steps taken to address the identified influencing factors. Implications for practiceMRI departments should encourage enabling environment and services that address communication needs of patients with cancer.

Multifocal intracranial meningioma coexiting with a transphenoidal meningocele of the Sella as seen on magnetic resonance imaging: A case report from a specialist hospital in Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria

Meningiomas are frequently extra axial tumors and represent the most common tumor of the meninges. They are benign non- glial neoplasms which arise from meningothelial cells of the arachnoid membranes. However, they could be locally invasive and aggressive. They are classified into three grades according to the WHO, criteria, namely grade I (benign), grade II (atypical) and grade III (anaplastic). Atypical locations of meningioma (subcortical intra axial) have been reported. Our case study shows both the extra axial and intra axial locations. The latter represents a challenge in Radiological diagnosis because it could be taken as a metastatic tumor or a vascular malformation. Our case study, is a 57year old woman who presented to the Radiology department for a brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) investigation on account of a 3year history of seizure disorder, headache and occasional irrational behavior as explained by her relative. The seizures are inconsistent in pattern, it could be generalized tonic clonic or focal (facial or limb twitches or abnormal movement of the head). Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the brain revealed a dura based homogenously enhancing, isointense subcortical mass at the right occipital lobe with marked vasogenic perilesional oedema. A similar but smaller lesion is seen at the parasagittal area of the frontal lobe.

Estimation of Intelligence Quotient in Healthy Individuals using Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Systematic Review

The intelligence quotient (IQ) is typically used to reflect human intelligence. Conventional IQ tests are commonly used to assess an individual’s level of intelligence. However, the reliability of these conventional methods remains controversial as they are vulnerable to bias and often yield inconsistent results. Interestingly, emerging evidence suggested that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be an alternative method to estimate a person’s level of intelligence, as IQ is closely linked with the brain's structure. In this article, we systematically reviewed published studies on the estimation of IQ in healthy individuals using MRI. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a comprehensive search was performed in the PubMed database. The literature search focused on studies reporting on brain structures associated with IQ in healthy individuals and the effects of brain structural changes on IQ. 22 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Key brain regions associated with IQ are grey matter (GM), white matter (WM), caudate nucleus, left hemisphere, limbic system, frontoparietal (FP) cortices, and default-mode network (DMN). The critical effect of ageing on brain changes and its impact on IQ were also discussed. Overall, the findings suggested that brain structures play a significant role in IQ levels in healthy individuals. This systematic review highlights the potential use of MRI in estimating IQ by examining brain structures. Nonetheless, available MRI studies were limited by methodological issues. Future MRI investigations should include well-characterized groups of females and matched male healthy individuals while considering confounding factors such as types of IQ tests.

The Correlation between Trigeminal Neuralgia and Local Anesthetics Neurotoxicity Associated with Acute Inflammation: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) represents a subject of importance in oral medicine due to the large number of patients complaining of TN who are aware that the orofacial pain has a dental origin and therefore seek initial care from the dentist. The reasons for the majority of TN cases remain controversial, but nearly 10% of patients have an obvious pathological condition, such as intracranial pathology. Aim: This study aimed to assess the correlation between idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia and local anesthetic overdose and/or repeated injections caused by dental malpractice. Patients and Methods: An adequate sample of thirty-four patients was selected from the teaching clinic of oral medicine in the College of Dentistry, the University of Karbala, Iraq. All patients were fit for the inclusion criteria and subjected to a thorough oral examination to exclude any organic diseases that cause orofacial pain. Also, they were subjected to a medical examination by multiple neurologists using magnetic resonance imaging and other medical investigations to ensure that all patients did not suffer from intracranial pathology. Results: The patients were statistically distributed by their ages into two sub-groups. The first group (25-48 years old) represented 52.94% of all patients, and the second group (49-72 years old) included 47.06%. The percentage of disease according to sex was 79.4% in males and 20.6% in females. 3-6 dental carpules containing lidocaine (2%) with epinephrine were given to patients. The data of the studied sample were analyzed by using the statistical package of social sciences (SPSS) version 25. The chi-square test was used to test the effect of the type of dental procedure before pain in the two age groups and the two sex groups. For the age group, the difference was significant (p-value &lt; 0.05), which indicated an increased incidence of nerve damage caused by local anesthesia in older patients. For the sex group, the chi-square test exhibited a value of 2.45, with no significant difference (p-value &gt; 0.05). The main theory suggested for the occurrence of local neuropathies and the initiation of TN was the demyelination of nerve, which may be due to the neurotoxic effects of local anesthesia administered at high concentrations and for prolonged exposure times (repeated injections at the site of the dental infection after failure of LA) that may activate the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis through cytochrome C release. The local anesthetic-related neurotoxicity has thus been found to have harmful effects on the nerve tissue, including demyelination and axonal degeneration. Conclusion: The malpractice of local anesthesia in dentistry may lead to dysesthesia, allodynia, and trigeminal neuralgia with different degrees and severity due to the neurotoxicity of the peripheral nerve fiber. The nerve damage may occur in many forms, such as demyelination, apoptosis, axonal degeneration, and hypoxia due to thrombosis. So, dentists should recognize the risk of repeated injections or high dose solution (4%) of LA in the inflamed tissues when inducing analgesia for their dental operations that might initiate the primary trigeminal neuralgia.

A Vessel Wall MRI Investigation in Patients With Moyamoya or Quasi-Moyamoya Disease: Diagnosis, Features, and Outcomes.

None of the previous studies have investigated the pathologic authenticity of affected arteries in moyamoya disease (MMD) and Quasi-MMD diagnosed by angiography. This study aimed to confirm the angiographic diagnosis of moyamoya as well as investigate the pathologic mechanisms in angiographically proven MMD and Quasi-MMD using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a large sample. We prospectively studied 116 patients who had angiographically proven MMD and Quasi-MMD. Each affected internal carotid artery, and middle cerebral artery was independently evaluated. In addition, clinical features and postoperative outcomes were compared between hemispheres with MMD and moyamoya syndrome (MMS). Among 116 patients analyzed, 88 and 22 patients had angiographically proven MMD and Quasi-MMD, respectively. high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging confirmed bilateral MMD in 73 (83.0%) patients, 1 hemisphere with MMD and the other with intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) in 10 (11.4%) patients, and bilateral hemispheres with different vasculopathies in 5 (5.7%) patients. Detailed analysis of 204 affected hemispheres showed that several combinations of different vasculopathies were observed in the internal carotid artery and middle cerebral artery of the same hemisphere, such as ICAD-ICAD, ICAD-MMD, dissection-ICAD, and dissection-MMD. Hemispheres were assigned to MMD and MMS groups according to their vasculopathies. Transient ischemic attack occurred more frequently in hemispheres with MMD (48.1% versus 21.1%, P =0.024), whereas symptomatic ischemia was more common in hemispheres with MMS (57.9% versus 24.9%, P =0.002). However, postoperative cerebral infarction, symptom improvement and neo-formative collaterals showed no significant difference between hemispheres with MMD and MMS ( P >0.05). Patients with angiographically proven MMD or Quasi-MMD needed more accurate evaluation combined with high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Highly selected patients with MMS might also obtain benefits from surgical revascularization.

Epidemiology of Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome in the Kerala Einstein Study: Protocol for a Prospective Cohort Study.

The southern India state of Kerala has among the highest proportion of older adults in its population in the country. An increase in chronic age-related diseases such as dementia is expected in the older Kerala population. Identifying older individuals early in the course of cognitive decline offers the best hope of introducing preventive measures early and planning management. However, the epidemiology and pathogenesis of predementia syndromes at the early stages of cognitive decline in older adults are not well established in India. The Kerala Einstein Study (KES) is a community-based cohort study that was established in 2008 and is based in the Kozhikode district in Kerala state. KES aims to establish risk factors and brain substrates of motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR), a predementia syndrome characterized by the presence of slow gait and subjective cognitive concerns in individuals without dementia or disability. This protocol describes the study design and procedures for this KES project. KES is proposing to enroll a sample of 1000 adults ≥60 years old from urban and rural areas in the Kozhikode district of Kerala state: 200 recruited in the previous phase of KES and 800 new participants to be recruited in this project. MCR is the cognitive phenotype of primary interest. The associations between previously established risk factors for dementia as well as novel risk factors (apathy and traumatic brain injury) and MCR will be examined in KES. Risk factor profiles for MCR will be compared between urban and rural residents as well as with individuals who meet the criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Cognitive and physical function, medical history and medications, sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle patterns, and activities of daily living will be evaluated. Participants will also undergo magnetic resonance imaging and electrocardiogram investigations. Longitudinal follow-up is planned in a subset of participants as a prelude to future longitudinal studies. KES (2R01AG039330-07) was funded by the US National Institutes of Health in September 2019 and received approval from the Indian Medical Council of Research to start the study in June 2021. We had recruited 433 new participants from urban and rural sites in Kozhikode as of May 2023: 41.1% (178/433) women, 67.7% (293/433) rural residents, and 13.4% (58/433) MCR cases. Enrollment is actively ongoing at all the KES recruitment sites. KES will provide new insights into risk factors and brain substrates associated with MCR in India and will help guide future development of regionally specific preventive interventions for dementia. DERR1-10.2196/49933.

The Rationality to Requesting in-ward Magnetic Resonance Imaging Investigation.

Magnetic Resonance imaging (MRI) is a valuable diagnostic tool by its non-invasive/non-ionizing nature. This study aims to determine justification of MRI in hospitalized patients at a tertiary provincial referent medical center in a one-year period. In the present retrospective and descriptive cross-sectional study, 438 admitted patients referred for MRI during 2017 were selected using systematic random sampling. The age, gender, investigated organ, the specialty of requesting physician, MRI with and without contrast, MRI diagnostic outcome were collected using checklists. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test were used for data analysis. The mean age of the patients was 42±26 years-old and female represented 53% of enrolled patients. The most and less prevalent investigated organs were the cerebrum and the orbit. After excluding cancer diagnosis, cancer staging, and therapeutic follow-up exams, MRI request was oriented in 64.3% and 77.2% of positive results was concordant with aforementioned diagnostic orientation (P<0.001). Oriented diagnostic MRI requesting is influenced by age, medical specialists and, investigated organ (P<0.001). The positive MRI is influenced significantly by oriented MRI request, gender, medical specialists and investigated organ (P<0.001). The diagnosis concordance of MRI is influenced significantly by oriented MRI request, medical specialists and investigated organ (P<0.001). Appropriate implementation of medical imaging requires boosting employed rationality by the concerned physicians. The current suboptimal results to requesting MRI rationality should mandate supplementary educational programs as to incite the medical corpus more closely implementing the published medical practice guidelines.

RECURRENT ODONTOGENIC FIBROMYXOMA OF SUBMANDIBULAR AND LEFT TEMPORAL REGION: A CASE REPORT

Odontogenic myxofibroma (OM) is a benign odontogenic tumour of maxillofacial bone with locally aggressive behaviour. It is thought to arise from the odontogenic ectomesenchyme of dental pulp or periodontal ligament. Odontogenic myxofibroma typically presents as painless slow growing tumour with high recurrence rates ranges from 10% to 45%. A case of recurrent odontogenic myxofibroma of submandibular, left preauricular and left temporal region presented in this case report. An 11-year-old Malay girl complaint of a painless, gradually progressive firm swelling on the lower left side of the jaw for 6 months duration. On clinical examination revealed firm swelling from the left angle of the mandible to the left parasymphysis area. A dental panoramic radiograph and computed tomography (CT) scan of the head and neck showed expansile lesion at left posterior mandible causing thinning and erosion of the mandibular cortex, multiloculated with tooth germ of 38 within and displaced inferiorly. Histopathological examination revealed stellate to spindle shape cells dispersed in a myxoid background. A final diagnosis of odontogenic myxofibroma has been made. Hence, left segmental mandibulectomy with condyle disarticulation was done via a submandibular approach. Unfortunately, a year later she had recurrence at bilateral submandibular region extending to left preauricular and left temporal region associated with pain and unable to close her mouth. Multiple surgery was carried out beginning with removal of the tumour at the bilateral submandibular region followed by removal of tumour at left temple. The operations were uneventful. However, tumour excision in the left preauricular region is yet to be performed pending magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) investigation to evaluate the soft tissue extension prior to surgical planning.