Improved segmentation of deep brain grey matter structures using magnetization transfer (MT) parameter maps.

Basal ganglia and brain stem nuclei are involved in the pathophysiology of various neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Currently available structural T1-weighted (T1w) magnetic resonance images do not provide sufficient contrast for reliable automated segmentation of various subcortical grey matter structures. We use a novel, semi-quantitative magnetization transfer (MT) imaging protocol that overcomes limitations in T1w images, which are mainly due to their sensitivity to the high iron content in subcortical grey matter. We demonstrate improved automated segmentation of putamen, pallidum, pulvinar and substantia nigra using MT images. A comparison with segmentation of high-quality T1w images was performed in 49 healthy subjects. Our results show that MT maps are highly suitable for automated segmentation, and so for multi-subject morphometric studies with a focus on subcortical structures.

Intrinsic coordinate system for the tibial plateau

Determination of the sub-chondral bone density, or more precisely the internal density spot, can be used to evaluate the capability of a knee to sustain normal kinematics. To use this technique as a mean of knee kinematics control, the position of the internal density spot must be determined in a reproducible way. This paper presents a definition of an intrinsic polar coordinate system, allowing to measure the position of the internal density spot of the tibial plateau. Tests of reproducibility gave good results and justify the use of this coordinate system for comparison of the internal density spot position between left and right paired knees.

Spectrally selective B1-insensitive T2 magnetization preparation sequence.

A T(2) magnetization-preparation (T(2) Prep) sequence is proposed that is insensitive to B(1) field variations and simultaneously provides fat suppression without any further increase in specific absorption rate (SAR). Increased B(1) inhomogeneity at higher magnetic field strength (B(0) > or = 3T) necessitates a preparation sequence that is less sensitive to B(1) variations. For the proposed technique, T(2) weighting in the image is achieved using a segmented B(1)-insensitive rotation (BIR-4) adiabatic pulse by inserting two equally long delays, one after the initial reverse adiabatic half passage (AHP), and the other before the final AHP segment of a BIR-4 pulse. This sequence yields T(2) weighting with both B(1) and B(0) insensitivity. To simultaneously suppress fat signal (at the cost of B(0) insensitivity), the second delay is prolonged so that fat accumulates additional phase due to its chemical shift. Numerical simulations as well as phantom and in vivo image acquisitions were performed to show the efficacy of the proposed technique.

Apport du CT-3D dans le diagnostic et le traitement des fractures des plateaux tibiaux [Value of 3D CT in diagnosis and treatment of fractures of the tibial plateau]

A precise classification and an optimal understanding of tibial plateau fractures are the basis of a conservative treatment or adequate surgery. The aim of this prospective study is to determine the contribution of 3D CT to the classification of fractures (comparison with standard X-rays) and as an aid to the surgeon in preoperative planning and surgical reconstruction. Between November 1994 and July 1996, 20 patients presenting 22 tibial plateau fractures were considered in this study. They all underwent surgical treatment. The fractures were classified according to the Müller AO classification. They were all investigated by means of standard X-rays (AP, profile, oblique) and the 3D CT. Analysis of the results has shown the superiority of 3D CT in the planning (easier and more acute), in the classification (more precise), and in the exact assessment of the lesions (quantity of fragments); thereby proving to be of undeniable value of the surgeon.

Temporal changes of an alfalfa succession and related soil physical properties on the Loess Plateau, China

The objective of this work was to investigate the relationship between changes in the plant community and changes in soil physical properties and water availability, during a succession from alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) to natural vegetation on the Loess Plateau, China. Data from a succession sere spanning 32 years were collated, and vegetative indexes were compared to changes related to soil bulk density and soil water storage. The alfalfa yield increased for approximately 7 years, then it declined and the alfalfa was replaced by a natural community dominated by Stipa bungeana that began to thrive about 10 years after alfalfa seeding. Soil bulk density increased over time, but the deterioration of the alfalfa was mainly ascribed to a severe reduction in soil water storage, which was lowest around the time when degradation commenced. The results indicated that water consumption by alfalfa could be reduced by reducing plant density. The analysis of the data also suggested that soil water recharge could be facilitated by rotating the alfalfa with other crops, natural vegetation, or bare soil.

Magnetization reversal mechanisms in colloidal dispersions of magnetite particles

We have studied the structural and magnetic properties of colloids consisting of different concentrations of magnetite particles dispersed in kerosene. Our data for the temperature dependence of the low field magnetization and the saturation coercive force of the samples evidenced the occurrence, in different temperature ranges, of Neel- and Brown-type relaxation processes whose characteristics were largely influenced by strong dipolar interparticle interactions.

Temperature dependence of the magnetization processes in Co/Al oxide/Permalloy trilayers

The magnetization process of Co/Al oxide/Py trilayers and its evolution with the temperature have been analyzed. The particular behavior of the Co layers, including the shift of the hysteresis loops and a coercivity increase with the decrease of temperature, is related with the apparition of a CoO layer at the Co/Al-oxide interface.

Systematic study of the temperature dependence of the saturation magnetization in Fe, Fe-Ni and Co-based amorphous alloys

Magnetization versus temperature in the temperature interval 2-200 K was measured for amorphous alloys of three different compositions: Fe 81.5B14.5Si4, Fe40Ni38 Mo4B18, and Co70Fe5Ni 2Mo3B5Si15. The measurements were performed by means of a SQUID (superconducting quantum interference device) magnetometer. The aim was to extract information about the different mechanisms contributing to thermal demagnetization. A powerful data analysis technique based on successive minimization procedures has demonstrated that Stoner excitations of the strong ferromagnetic type play a significant role in the Fe-Ni alloy studied. The Fe-rich and Co-rich alloys do not show a measurable contribution from single-particle excitations.