VOLUME | JUN 2022 Unlocking the Secrets of Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound for Brain Injuries with Diffusion Coefficient Analysis

PurposeIn order to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) for acute traumatic brain injury (TBI), we studied the potential of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values and ADC-derived first-order features regarding this problem.MethodsForty-five male Sprague Dawley rats (sham group: 15, TBI group: 15, LIPUS treated: 15) were enrolled and underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Scanning layers were acquired using a multi-shot readout segmentation of long variable echo trains (RESOLVE) to decrease distortion. The ultrasound transducer was applied to the designated region in the injured cortical areas using a conical collimator and was filled with an ultrasound coupling gel. Regions of interest were manually delineated in the center of the damaged cortex on the diffusion weighted images (b = 800 s/mm2) layer by layer for the TBI and LIPUS treated groups using the open-source software ITK-SNAP. Before analysis and modeling, the features were normalized using a z-score method, and a logistic regression model with a backward filtering method was employed to perform the modeling. The entire process was completed using the R language.ResultsDuring the observation time, the ADC values ipsilateral to the trauma in the TBI and LIPUS groups increased rapidly up to 24 h. After statistical analysis, the 10th percentile, 90th percentile, mean, skewness, and uniformity demonstrated a significant difference among three groups. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis shows that the combined LR model exhibited the highest area under the curve value (AUC: 0.96).ConclusionThe combined LR model of first-order features based on the ADC map can acquire a higher diagnostic performance than each feature only in evaluating the neuroprotective effect of LIPUS for TBI. Models based on first-order features may have potential value in predicting the therapeutic effect of LIPUS in clinical practice in the future.

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Dr. David Lowemann

Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.

Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.

Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.

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