Super-resolution of diffusion-weighted images using space-customized learning model

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is a noninvasive method used for investigating the microstructural properties of the brain. However, a tradeoff exists between resolution and scanning time in clinical practice. Super-resolution has been employed to enhance spatial resolution in natural images, but its application on high-dimensional and non-Euclidean DWI remains challenging. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop an end-to-end deep learning network for enhancing the spatial resolution of DWI through post-processing. METHODS: We proposed a space-customized deep learning approach that leveraged convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for the grid structural domain (x-space) and graph CNNs (GCNNs) for the diffusion gradient domain (q-space). Moreover, we represented the output of CNN as a graph using correlations defined by a Gaussian kernel in q-space to bridge the gap between CNN and GCNN feature formats. RESULTS: Our model was evaluated on the Human Connectome Project, demonstrating the effective improvement of DWI quality using our proposed method. Extended experiments also highlighted its advantages in downstream tasks. CONCLUSION: The hybrid convolutional neural network exhibited distinct advantages in enhancing the spatial resolution of DWI scans for the feature learning of heterogeneous spatial data.