Characterization of atrophic changes in the cerebral cortex using fractal dimensional analysis

Richard D. King, Anuh T. George, Tina Jeon, Linda S. Hynan, Teddy S. Youn, David N. Kennedy, Bradford Dickerson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

97 Scopus citations

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to apply a modified fractal analysis technique to high-resolution T1 weighted magnetic resonance images in order to quantify the alterations in the shape of the cerebral cortex that occur in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Images were selected from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative database (Control N = 15, Mild-Moderate AD N = 15). The images were segmented using a semi-automated analysis program. Four coronal and three axial profiles of the cerebral cortical ribbon were created. The fractal dimensions (Df) of the cortical ribbons were then computed using a box-counting algorithm. The mean Df of the cortical ribbons from AD patients were lower than age-matched controls on six of seven profiles. The fractal measure has regional variability which reflects local differences in brain structure. Fractal dimension is complementary to volumetric measures and may assist in identifying disease state or disease progression.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)154-166
Number of pages13
JournalBrain Imaging and Behavior
Volume3
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2009

Keywords

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Cerebral cortex
  • Fractal analysis
  • Fractal dimension
  • Neuroimaging initiative

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging
  • Neurology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
  • Psychiatry and Mental health
  • Behavioral Neuroscience

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