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7211901 
Journal Article 
Fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity measurements on normal human brain: comparison between low-and high-resolution diffusion tensor imaging sequences 
Papanikolaou, N; Karampekios, S; Papadaki, E; Malamas, M; Maris, T; Gourtsoyiannis, N; , 
2006 
Yes 
European Radiology
ISSN: 0938-7994
EISSN: 1432-1084 
SPRINGER 
NEW YORK 
187-192 
English 
15997366 
WOS:000234555100024 
Non-invasive in vivo visualization of white matter fiber tracts is currently feasible by means of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) techniques. DTI-derived metrics, like fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD), have the potential to improve tissue characterization. Technical optimization of diffusion tensor sequences, including signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution, was performed for 20 normal subjects. High- and low-resolution DTI sequences were applied on all subjects and FA, MD parametric maps were reconstructed for both protocols. Voxel-based statistical analysis revealed regions with significantly different FA and MD values between the two sequences, while the same type of analysis was performed to illustrate regions with significantly different signal-to-noise ratio. In conclusion, optimized DTI sequences may be applied routinely in clinical practice with a standard MR scanner, while accurate quantification of FA and MD may improve lesion characterization.