Paul Parizel unpaid guest prof.

Research Paul Parizel

Research team

Robot-assisted gait training: a way to investigate a critical time window for stroke rehabilitation. 01/01/2018 - 31/12/2018

Abstract

Animal models suggest a limited time window of increased repair activity in the brain during the first weeks after damage, for example after a stroke. Within this time window, training responsiveness is increased suggesting that this is the optimal time to start intensive rehabilitation, e.g. gait training. Disappointingly, early stroke care is characterized by physical inactivity. This lack of intensive therapy probably explains rather disappointing mobility outcome, since half of stroke survivors leave rehabilitation facilities in a wheelchair. The World Health Organisation expects 1.5 million new cases of stroke per year in 2025. If innovation in stroke rehabilitation lacks, the increasing burden of stroke will inevitably lead to a growing disabled and dependent chronic stroke population. A novel therapeutic strategy are wearable exoskeletons. This device allows an earlier and more intensive rehabilitation approach as it assists in weightbearing and walking. This technology has the potential to change acute stroke rehabilitation from a passive into a motivating, active time as it allows early training in an enriched learning environment. However, due to its recent development this type of therapy is not yet investigated. We aim to fill this gap with the proposed project by delivering published evidence on feasibility and effectiveness.

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A New Traumatic Axonal Injury Classification Scheme based in Clinical and Improved MR Imaging Biomarkers (TAI-MRI) 01/09/2017 - 31/08/2019

Abstract

Traumatic Axonal Injury (TAI) is now considered to be a frequent and important injury in all severities of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The global aim of TAI-MRI is to develop a novel classification for TAI using data from multimodal MRI and to determine its clinical value for the characterization of injury severity and prediction of outcome. This project, involving 4 partners, will use MRI datasets obtained early after injury (including clinical and advanced MRI) from two local studies (The Trondheim and Cambridge TBI studies: ~580 patients) and the EU-funded multicenter CENTER-TBI study (~800 patients). TAI-MRI will thus be the largest MRI study worldwide. These datasets comprise a comprehensive collection of acute phase variables reflecting the severity of injury with the possibility to adjust for confounding variables and outcome measures at multiple time points during the first year. Several training sets will be used for model selection. Automated methods involving deep learning techniques will be developed and used for lesion mapping in combination with manual assessments. Methods for computer aided diagnosis (CAD) will be refined and validated, and analyses will determine which aspects of CAD based evaluation could replace expert clinical evaluation by radiologists. Finally, this novel MRI classification system will be validated in the large CENTER-TBI dataset. An improved MRI-based classification system of TAI will provide both a better assessment of injury severity in the acute phase and better outcome prediction. Recent advances in CAD provide a unique opportunity to develop a classification with great clinical applicability. Hence, we will provide a timely new tool for neuroradiologists, clinicians and researchers to facilitate TBI diagnosis, thus improving the treatment and rehabilitation of TBI patients. Finally, TAI-MRI will bring the field forward by increasing our understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI, and how reduced consciousness can be linked to injury type and location and outcome.

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Breakthroughs towards high-resolution MR relaxometry within a clinically acceptable acquisition time for improved detection of brain diseases. 01/01/2017 - 31/03/2021

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most used neuroimaging techniques. Unfortunately, signal intensities in conventional MRI images are expressed in relative units that are dependent on hardware and software. This does not hinder visual inspection of anatomy, but severely complicates quantitative comparisons of the signal intensity within a scan, between successive scans, and between subjects. In contrast, MR relaxometry is an MRI technique that generates quantitative maps of absolute biophysical tissue characteristics (Deoni et al., 2010). Evidence is growing that MR relaxometry detects subtle microscopic tissue damage, which could lead to earlier diagnosis of various brain diseases including multiple sclerosis (Vrenken et al., 2006; Roosendaal et al., 2009 and Papadopoulos et al., 2010). Conventional MR relaxometry techniques, however, inherently require long scan times that impede the introduction in clinical practice. From a diagnostic perspective, long scan times increase the likelihood of motion artefacts, whereas from an economical perspective they reduce the throughput. In addition, long scan times cause discomfort for patients. For these reasons, MR relaxometry hasn't convinced the radiology community yet. The current project proposal aims to overcome these barriers by developing a radically new widely-applicable technological framework for accelerating MR relaxometry. At the end of this IOF SBO project, the feasibility and validity of our new approach for accelerated MR relaxometry will have been demonstrated. For final translation of the technology towards the market (and patients) we will team-up will industrial partners. Moreover, three companies (two MRI vendors and one specialized SME) already agreed to join the Industry Advisory Board and will support the project by providing early feedback. Finally, from a strategic perspective, this project bridges fundamental MR physics with applied bio-medical neuroimaging-MRI research. As such the project promotes cross-fertilization between the three Antwerp MRI-research groups (and faculties) involved. Hence, this research will enforce the mission and ambition of the University of Antwerp and its IOF consortium (Expert Group Antwerp Molecular imaging, EGAMI-image) to develop an IP portfolio and a strong translational and integrated MRI research program.

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Quantitative diffusion tensor imaging of the postoperative anterior cruciate ligament of the knee. 01/10/2016 - 30/09/2021

Abstract

Tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee are a frequent injury with increasing incidence. Surgical treatment of ACL injuries is superior to conservative treatment for the majority of patients to facilitate a return to the desired daily activities, including sports. Although ACL reconstruction using autograft tissue remains the gold standard for treating ACL injuries, there is a current surgical trend toward primary repair of the ACL. Successful surgery requires that the ACL graft or repair tissue transforms into ACL-like tissue. A common challenge in ACL surgery and rehabilitation is the lack of a noninvasive, sensitive outcome measure to evaluate the efficacy of surgical treatment. With the recent developments in MR technology, several advanced imaging techniques have now become available for use on clinical 3T scanners. In this project we will focus on the use of quantitative diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to asses the normal, the injured and postoperative ACL. We will conduct a large-scale study to investigate the ability of DTI to monitor ACL healing both in patients with ACL reconstruction and primary repair of the ACL. It is our aim to document within-patient temporal changes using the DTI technique and to correlate DTI metrics with ACL structural properties. This will help in understanding the ACL healing process, and ultimately, in determining the appropriate timing for patients to return to sports.

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Space flight induced neuroplasticity studied with advanced magnetic resonance imaging methods. 01/10/2015 - 30/09/2017

Abstract

The overall objective of our research is to determine whether biomarkers of neuroplasticity in vestibular signal processing can be found using the model of microgravity. More specific the following objectives are set: a) to obtain knowledge on how astronauts adapt to microgravity at the level of the brain b) to use the model of microgravity to gain insight in which specific regions of interest are involved in space motion sickness, spatial disorientation, vertigo, and convergence of otolith and semicircular canal signals. c) to understand mechanisms of neuroplasticity in patients with vestibular dysfunction

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MR standardisation in the multinational project CENTER-TBI (Comparative European NeuroTrauma Effectiveness Research). 01/03/2015 - 20/09/2016

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the client. UA provides the client research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

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Biomedical Microscopic Imaging and in-vivo Bio-Imaging (EGAMI). 01/01/2015 - 31/12/2020

Abstract

EGAMI stands for Expert Group Antwerp Molecular Imaging. Moreover, EGAMI is the mirror word of 'image'. EGAMI clusters the internationally recognized expertise in the profession of fundamental and biomedical imaging at the University of Antwerp: the Bio-Imaging Lab, the Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Radiology, the Laboratory for Cell Biology and Histology, and the Vision Lab (for post-processing of medical images). EGAMI's mission is providing an integrated research platform that comprises all aspects of multimodality translational medical imaging. Multimodality refers to the integration of information from the various imaging techniques. Within EGAMI, there is pre-clinical and clinical expertise and infrastructure for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). EGAMI executes projects ranging from applied biomedical (imaging) and fundamental research to imaging methodologies. Die applied biomedical research focusses on the research fields neuro(bio)logy (i.e. development and validation of biomarkers (as well as therapy evaluation) for diseases like Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis etc.) and oncology (i.e. biomarkers for improved patient stratification and therapy monitoring). Since the pre-clinical biomedical research within EGAMI makes use of miniaturized versions of imaging equipment for humans (scanners) is it inherently translational, in other words initial findings acquired in animal experiments can be translated into clinical applications for improved diagnosis and treatment of patients ('from bench to bedside'). Beside the application of imaging in the biomedical research, EGAMI also conducts projects that aim to achieve an improvement and optimization of the imaging methodology. The expertise of the MICA (e.g. the development of new radiotracers) and of the Vision Lab (e.g. the development of image reconstruction, segmentation, and analysis algorithms) offers here the strategic platform to assemble intellectual property rights.

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How students learn: answers from a neuro-educational research perspective. 01/10/2014 - 30/09/2018

Abstract

This interdisciplinary research proposal starts from the observation that the current empirical research on how students' process their learning in higher education has lead to contradictory results on how students learn The inconsistent results can be partially explained by an overreliance on self-report instruments to measure students' processing strategies and avoidance of more direct observation techniques. Today, brain-imaging studies are upcoming in the research domain of educational neurosciences and allow to move beyond the use of self-report measures and to directly observe processing strategies when students learn. Brain-imaging studies (such as fMRI) track the cerebral activation patterns underlying the learning processes and may yield in combination with self-report measures a more comprehensive picture on students' processing strategies. Three research questions are central: (1) what is the neural basis of processing strategies of students in higher education?; (2) How is the neural basis of processing strategies related to processing strategies as measured with self-report measures? (3) Do students use different processing strategies for different discipline specific study-tasks? The project will be organized in two phases: a pilot study followed by a main study. In the pilot study, self-report techniques (thinking-aloud protocols and self-report questionnaires) are used to investigate whether students use different processing strategies for different study tasks in four different domains. In the main study, students' processing strategies will be measured by means of a self-report techniques and by means of an fMRI study. The results of this project can have important implications for present theory development on processing strategies, for our understanding of the brain mechanisms in students' processing strategies and how these individual differences can be adequately measured.

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First PET-MR: A Flemish Interuniversity Research Simultaneous Time-of-Flight PET-MR scanner. 14/08/2014 - 14/02/2019

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Flemish Public Service. UA provides the Flemish Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

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    Spaceflight induced neuroplasticity studied with advanced magnetic resonance imaging methods (BRAIN-DTI). 01/01/2012 - 31/12/2021

    Abstract

    Advanced methods in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, such as resting state functional MRI (rfMRI) and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) will be used to study the effect of microgravity on the adaptive processes in the brain in astronauts. Preand post-flight data will be collected to elucidate changes in structural and functional brain wiring due to microgravity.

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    Reproducibility and sensitivity analysis of DTI and resting state fMRI. 01/08/2011 - 31/07/2015

    Abstract

    This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand UZA. UA provides UZA research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

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    The role of oxytocin and the moderating effect of social context and personality on human affiliative behavior. 01/07/2011 - 30/06/2015

    Abstract

    The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) has been shown to play a crucial role in establishing trust and cooperation due to its anxiolytic effect and regulation of social affiliation. Recent research indicates that individual differences in OT metabolism correlate with differences in several aspects of social behavior (including empathy, stress reactivity, and an increased likelihood of autism). In addition, the effect of OT on trust and social affiliation appears to depend on contextual inputs and vary with personal characteristics. The purpose of the current study is therefore threefold. First, we intend to investigate the moderating influence of the social context and personality traits on the behavioral consequences of extraneous nasal OT (versus placebo) administration. Second, we want to gain more insight into the underlying neural mechanism by which OT induces trust and affiliation. Specifically, we explore by means of fMRI and DTI the functional and anatomical connectivity between the neural correlates of fear regulation (amygdala) and social approach (nucleus accumbens). Third, we explore if there might be a relation between low plasma levels of OT and/or the workings of OT on the one hand, and social delinquency on the other hand. Gaining knowledge into the interaction between a hormone that regulates fear and social affiliation, the social environment, and delinquent behavior, might prove to be useful in developing appropriate clinical and behavioural therapies for youth who suffer from social integration problems.

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    Potential of advanced MRI measurements to be used as bio-marker in the future. 01/09/2010 - 31/05/2011

    Abstract

    This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand UZA. UA provides UZA research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

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    Individual differences is self-regulating behavior: a functional imaging study on brain processes substantiating goal-directedness, persistence, and adaptive behaviour. 01/07/2009 - 30/06/2013

    Abstract

    The project aims to gain insights into the origin of individual differences in impuls control and self regulation. We test the hypothesis that activity in three hypothesized brain regions correlates on the one hand with dopamine receptor gene polymorphisme, and on the other hand with stable personality traits reflecting motivated, persistent, and adaptive behavior.

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    The influence of emotions on decision-making in social dilemmas. 01/10/2006 - 30/09/2010

    Abstract

    The proposed research draws on insights in economics, psychology, and the neurosciences to better understand why human decision-making so often deviates from game-theoretic predictions. The specific aim is to examine by means of fMRI what the underlying roles of emotional versus cognitive brain networks might be while people are choosing a cooperative versus a competitive strategy in a social dilemma. The role of personality and the context of the dilemma are also investigated.

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    Subfenotyping of otosclerosis : multi-disciplinary diagnostics of cochlear otosclerosis. 01/10/2004 - 31/05/2005

    Abstract

    Otosclerosis is a common bone abnormality of the otic capsule, characterized by abnormal resorption and redeposition of bone. Two types of otosclerosis can be distinguished: histological and clinical otosclerosis. Histological otosclerosis refers to the presence of otosclerosis, diagnosed post mortem by histological survey of temporal bones. Clinical otosclerosis refers to the presence of conductive or mixed hearing loss caused by stapedial fixation or round window abnormalities. An important discrepancy exists in the prevalence of both forms, 2.5% for histological otosclerosis and 0.3% for clinical otosclerosis, respectively. Therefore, otosclerosis is clearly under-diagnosed in clinical practice (factor 8!). This discrepancy between histological and clinical otosclerosis is caused by the variable topography of the otosclerotic foci in the otic capsule: not all localisations cause a typical symptomatology. A fenestral otosclerosis (oval or round window) is relatively easily diagnosed with audiometrical and tympanometrical techniques. In this case, a conductive or mixed hearing loss is present, whether with or without a typical Carhart notch. When the otosclerotic foci occur somewhere else in the otic capsule, the so called `cohlear otosclerosis' is difficult to distinguish audiometrically from other forms of perceptive hearing loss. By using radiological imaging techniques, the diagnosis of cochlear otosclerosis can be made in some cases, but usually no radiological symptoms are visible. In conclusion, due to the high prevalence among the population there is a current need for a more sensitive and more specific diagnosis of cochlear otosclerosis, both clinically as well as radiologically. In addition, otosclerosis appears to be a genetically complex disease caused by an interaction of genes and environmental factors. However, knowledge regarding the influence of this interaction is insufficient, but is probably partially underlying the heterogeneous fenotypic characteristics. Further classification of these otosclerotic subfenotypes is a conditio sine qua non for the clinical diagnostics. When scientific research succeeds in pin-pointing environmental or genetic risk factors and correlating these factors with fenotypic characteristics the foundation is laid. The fundamental insights in the aetiology of otosclerosis and the more concrete classification of otosclerosis-subfenotypes gained by this project, will allow the ORL-clinicians to make a more specific diagnosis. In this way, the current symptomatic approach of otosclerosis will evolve to a more individual-specific approach.

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    Neuroradiologic imaging procedure. 01/09/1998 - 31/05/1999

    Abstract

    Contribution of neuroradiologic imaging procedure in the clincical management of neurotrauma patients in acute, subacute and chronic stages.

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      01/09/1996 - 31/08/1998

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        01/01/1996 - 31/12/1997

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