Dose Reduction Research Articles

Safety and Efficacy of SGLT2 Inhibitors for Amyloid Light-Chain Cardiomyopathy

BackgroundSodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have demonstrated benefit in patients with heart failure, but minimal data exists around the use of these medications in amyloid light-chain cardiomyopathy (AL-CM). We performed a retrospective study assessing the safety and efficacy of SGLT2i in AL-CM. MethodsWe queried our institutional registry and identified 27 AL-CM patients who received SGLT2i. The safety analysis included all 27 patients and assessed SGLT2i-associated adverse events, hospitalizations, and deaths. To decrease confounding, the efficacy analysis included only a subset of patients with stable disease (on stable anti-plasma cell therapy for ≥2 months prior to baseline and achieved at least a hematologic Very Good Partial Response) and compared disease marker changes in these patients (n=17) with those of a contemporaneous untreated control cohort from our registry (n=21). ResultsThe mean age of the overall population was 68.6 (standard deviation 9.4) years. Seven (14.6%) patients had diabetes, and 19 (39.6%) had chronic kidney disease. In the safety analysis, median follow-up time was 10.9 (interquartile range 7.2) months. Two (7.4%) patients discontinued SGLT2i due to hypovolemia and genital irritation, and 6 (22.2%) additional patients temporarily held SGLT2i due to an adverse event, commonly related to volume depletion. Thirteen hospitalizations, all considered unrelated to SGLT2i use, and no deaths occurred. In the efficacy analysis, SGLT2i-treated patients had more severe disease at baseline than controls, demonstrating significantly higher median troponin-T and loop diuretic dose (P<0.05). Compared with controls, SGLT2i treatment was associated with significantly greater reductions in loop diuretic dose (P<0.001) and NTproBNP (P=0.033) across 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up timepoints. SGLT2i treatment was also associated with a significantly greater reduction in mean arterial pressure at 12 months (P=0.031) but not at other timepoints. No significant differences were observed on changes in weight, eGFR, troponin-T, proteinuria, or albumin. ConclusionsIn this small-scale retrospective study, we demonstrate that SGLT2i is well-tolerated by most patients with AL-CM, but volume depletion symptoms may limit continuous use. SGLT2i may aid management of congestion in AL-CM as evidenced by reduced diuretic dose and NTproBNP without adverse renal effects. Larger long-term studies are needed to build on our findings.

Improving diagnostic confidence in low-dose dual-energy CTE with low energy level and deep learning reconstruction

ObjectiveTo demonstrate the value of using 50 keV virtual monochromatic images with deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) in low-dose dual-energy CT enterography (CTE). MethodsIn this prospective study, 114 participants (62 % M; 41.9 ± 16 years) underwent dual-energy CTE. The early-enteric phase was performed using standard-dose (noise index (NI): 8) and images were reconstructed at 70 keV and 50 keV with 40 % strength ASIR-V (ASIR-V40%). The late-enteric phase used low-dose (NI: 12) and images were reconstructed at 50 keV with ASIR-V40%, and DLIR at medium (DLIR-M) and high strength (DLIR-H). Image standard deviation (SD), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), edge-rise-slope (ERS) were computed. The quantitative comb sign score was calculated for the 27 patients with Crohn’s disease. The subjective noise, image contrast, display of rectus artery were scored using a 5-point scale by two radiologists blindly. ResultsEffective dose was reduced by 50 % (P < 0.001) in the late-enteric phase to 3.26 mSv. The lower-dose 50 keV-DLIR-H images (SD:17.7 ± 0.5HU) had similar image noise (P = 0.97) as the standard-dose 70 keV-ASIR-V40% images (SD:17.7 ± 0.73HU), but with higher (P < 0.001) SNR, CNR, ERS and quantitative comb sign score (5.7 ± 0.17, 1.8 ± 0.12, 156.04 ± 5.21 and 5.05 ± 0.73, respectively). Furthermore, the lower-dose 50 keV-DLIR-H images obtained the highest score in the rectus artery visibility (4.27 ± 0.6). ConclusionsThe 50 keV images in dual-energy CTE with DLIR provides high-quality images, with a 50 % reduction in radiation dose. Images with high contrast and density resolutions significantly enhance the diagnostic confidence of Crohn’s disease and are essential for the clinical development of individualized treatment plans.

Decreased rates of radiation-induced trismus and lowered mastication structure doses in patients treated for head and neck cancer during the last two decades

PurposeTo investigate how absorbed doses to mastication structures in modern radiotherapy (RT) technique for head and neck cancer (HNC) compared to earlier RT techniques and to published trismus tolerance doses. To compare the incidence of radiation-induced trismus by earlier and newer RT techniques. Methods and materialsThis study investigated two HNC patient cohorts treated with RT in 2007-2012 (3D-CRT and/or IMRT; n=121 [Cohort 1]) and 2017-2020 (VMAT; n=124 [Cohort 2]). All patients underwent RT without mastication-structure-sparing intent, had normal mouth-opening ability before RT and were prospectively assessed. Trismus was defined as maximal interincisal opening ≤35 mm at any follow-up (3, 6 and 12 months post RT). The temporo-mandibular joints (TMJs), masseter and medial/lateral pterygoid muscles were delineated on the planning CT:s. Mean doses were compared between cohorts, and evaluated with respect to published trismus tolerance doses. P-values≤0.05 indicated statistical significance. ResultsWithin 12 months post RT, 74/121 (61%) of patients in Cohort 1 had experienced trismus compared to 11/124 (9%) in Cohort 2. Averaged mean doses (±S.D.) for the masseter muscles were 35.2±8.3 Gy in Cohort 1 and 20.2±8.7 Gy in Cohort 2 (p<0.001). Corresponding numbers were 19.1±16.2 and 4.3±4.3 Gy for the TMJs, 53.7±10.1 and 40.2±16.8 Gy for the medial pterygoid muscles, and 29.2±18.7 and 9.2±8.4 Gy for the lateral pterygoid muscles (all p<0.001). Masseter muscle doses were below tolerance doses in 23% of patients in Cohort 1 compared to 90% in Cohort 2. The corresponding numbers were 52% and 96% for the TMJs, 8% and 36% for the medial pterygoid muscles and 72% and 100% for the lateral pterygoid muscles. ConclusionMastication structure mean doses by more recent RT techniques were generally below proposed tolerance doses, with dose reductions of 10-20 Gy compared to earlier techniques. Modern RT without mastication-structure-sparing intent resulted in below 10% of HNC patients experiencing trismus compared to 60% treated with earlier techniques.

Pharmacokinetics of Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir and efficacy of an alternate-day treatment in hemodialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C infection.

Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) is a combination drug used for chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection. However, limited information exists regarding the pharmacokinetics of SOF/VEL and its metabolites in hemodialysis patients. We conducted a prospective investigation of the pharmacokinetic parameters of SOF/VEL after a single dose of SOF/VEL (400/100 mg) on days with and without dialysis in 12 Thai hemodialysis patients with chronic HCV infection, who had been undergoing hemodialysis for a duration of 0.5-20 years. Blood samples were collected before dose (0) and 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 8.0, and 12.0 h after dose. Dialysate samples were also collected before dose (0) and 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 h after dose. Plasma and dialysate samples were quantified for SOF and its metabolite, GS-331007, and VEL concentrations using a fully validated LCMS technique. In addition, a preliminary efficacy study was conducted using the proposed SOF/VEL dose reduction regimen in all patients. No differences in SOF/VEL PK parameters between on- and off-dialysis studies. On the contrary, GS-331007 exhibited a 30% reduction in the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time 0 to 24 h (AUC0-24h) on dialysis days compared with non-dialysis days (AUC0-24h ratio 0.68 vs. 1.04, respectively). The dialysis clearance of SOF and GS-331007 was 9.35 (8.72-15.11) and 8.89 (8.52-14.07) mL/min, respectively. Subsequently, an alternate-day regimen of SOF/VEL (400/100 mg) was administered for 12 weeks, resulting in an undetectable plasma HCV viral load without side effects. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate the efficacy and safety of our proposed dose reduction regimen.

HAND-FOOT SYNDROME IN SORAFENIB AND LENVATINIB TREATMENT FOR ADVANCED THYROID CANCER.

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical impact of hand-foot syndrome (HFS) during treatment with two multikinase inhibitors, sorafenib and lenvatinib, in a large group of patients with advanced thyroid cancer. Moreover, we looked for possible associations between HFS occurrence and clinical and pathological features. We retrospectively evaluated 239 patients with advanced thyroid cancer: 165 treated with lenvatinib and 74 with sorafenib. Statistical analysis was performed to verify which features could be correlated with HFS development. HFS was observed in 35/74 (47.4%) and in 43/165 (26.7%) patients treated with sorafenib or lenvatinib, respectively. The median latency from the drug beginning and HFS appearance was 27 days for sorafenib and 2.9 months for lenvatinib. G3/G4 toxicity was observed in 16/35 (45.7%) patients treated with sorafenib and only in 3/43 (7%) treated with lenvatinib. Drug dose reduction due to HFS was required in 19/74 (25.7%) and 3/165 (1.8%) patients treated with sorafenib and lenvatinib, respectively. HFS occurrence was significantly associated with a longer duration of therapy in both groups. HFS was a frequent adverse event during both lenvatinib and sorafenib therapy, with a higher frequency and toxicity grade during sorafenib treatment. HFS was the most frequent reason for drug reduction or discontinuation in patient treated with sorafenib. Early diagnosis of HFS is important to allow early intervention, possibly in a multidisciplinary setting, and to avoid treatment discontinuation, which is highly relevant to obtain the maximum effectiveness of systemic therapy.

High Creatinine Level Secondary to Use of CDK 4/6 Inhibitor Treatment (Palbociclib and Ribociclib) + Endocrine Therapy (ET).

The aim of this study is to share real-life data on the increase in creatinine due to CDK 4/6 inhibitor treatment and patients diagnosed with HR+/HER2-MBC and treated with ribociclib or palbociclib combined with ET were included in the study. While creatinine increase was observed in 17.9% (n = 19) of the 106 patients in the study population, 8.5% (n = 9) had Grade 1, 8.5% (n = 8) had Grade 2, and % 0.9 (n = 1) had Grade 3 creatinine elevation. The increase in creatinine occurred in 25% (n = 12) of ribociclib users and 12.1% (n = 7) of palbociclib users. No patient required a dose reduction or discontinuation of treatment due to elevated creatinine. Of the patients with high creatinine levels, 36.8% (n = 7) were over 65 years of age. Those with multiple comorbidities, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) >13.5 mg/dl, creatinine >0.66 mg/dl, BUN/creatinine ratio >19.95, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) >96.05 ml/min, and uric acid >4.69mg/dl. It was observed that the increase in the creatinine level was statistically significant (p <0.001). In conclusion, this study revealed that the increase in the serum creatinine secondary to ribociclib and palbociclib treatments is associated with kidney function tests and the number of concomitant diseases. Key Words: CDK 4/6 inhibitor, Creatinine elevation, Palbociclib, Ribociclib.

Association between rheumatoid arthritis and risk of radiotherapy toxicity: a systematic review

There is sometimes concern over the use of radiotherapy for cancer in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but there is little evidence to support its avoidance. Identifying any association between RA and risk of radiotherapy toxicity could impact current guidance. We aimed to review the evidence base. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines, a systematic review was conducted of Medline, Embase and PubMed databases on 25 November 2019 and updated 22 February 2024. Articles identified for inclusion were reviewed by two independent assessors. 155 articles were identified. With repeat articles excluded, 114 remained. 12 articles were included in qualitative analysis. Six studies held no comparison cohort; one compared patients with RA to patients without RA collagen vascular disease (CVD); five compared patients with RA to CVD or a matched pair. Studies showed patients with RA developed higher levels of toxicity; however, only two studies had statistically significant results. Nine of the 12 studies had medium-to-low quality evidence and displayed predisposition to numerous biases. Due to limited high-quality research, it is difficult to draw a clear conclusion on the relationship between RA and radiotherapy toxicity. Given the current lack of strong and high-quality evidence identified in this review, dose reduction of radiotherapy in patients with RA lacks sufficient evidence to be recommended. There is a need for further high-quality research involving prospective analyses of toxicity, up-to-date radiotherapy techniques, long follow-up and large cohorts. Also, analyses need to adjust for confounding factors, match for risk factors and incorporate RA activity status assessments.

Suppressed thyroid stimulating hormone levels after initiation of a subcutaneous glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist in a post-thyroidectomy patient managed with levothyroxine case report

ObjectivesGlucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) therapy has demonstrated an increased risk of thyroid C-cell hyperplasia and C-cell tumors in rodents. Due to this risk, a boxed warning for this drug class exists for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. There is a lack of data regarding any possible effect of GLP-1 RA therapy on serum thyroid levels. The objective of this case report is to describe a case of suppressed thyroid stimulating hormone levels after initiation of a subcutaneous semaglutide in a post-total thyroidectomy patient managed with levothyroxine in order to highlight the need for closer monitoring of these patients and further research in this area. Case SummaryThe patient described in the case underwent a total thyroidectomy in 2015 with stable thyroid hormone replacement requirements with levothyroxine for 5 years until the initiation and titration of subcutaneous semaglutide. The reduction in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) after starting GLP-1 RA therapy necessitated a 25 percent dose reduction of levothyroxine from her original dose. Practice ImplicationsThis patient experienced suppressed TSH levels following initiation and titration of subcutaneous semaglutide. The etiology of these changes may be related to the direct effects of GLP-1 RA therapy on TSH levels, changes in absorption related to delayed gastric emptying rates, secondary to GLP-1 RA-associated weight loss, or a combination of these proposed mechanisms. It may be prudent to exercise more frequent monitoring of medications that require weight-based dosing and those with a narrow therapeutic index when initiating and titrating GLP-1 RA-based therapies and is an area of potential study.

Preventive Effect of Neuromuscular Training on Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a highly prevalent and clinically relevant adverse effect of chemotherapy, negatively impacting patient quality of life. The lack of effective preventive or therapeutic options regarding CIPN often requires changes in cancer therapy, potentially resulting in reduced survival. To determine whether sensorimotor training (SMT) and whole-body vibration (WBV) training reduce symptoms and decrease the onset of CIPN. This prospective multicenter randomized clinical trial (STOP) followed up patients over 5 years at 4 centers in or near Cologne, Germany. Patients undergoing treatment with oxaliplatin or vinca alkaloids were recruited. Participants were recruited from May 2014 to November 2020. Data were last analyzed in June 2021. Participants in the intervention groups performed supervised SMT or WBV training sessions twice a week, each lasting approximately 15 to 30 minutes, concomitant to medical therapy. The primary end point was the incidence of CIPN. Secondary end points included subjective neuropathy symptoms, balance control, physical activity levels, quality of life, and clinical outcome. For cross-stratum evaluations, the Mantel-Haenszel test (MH) was used, and within individual strata, Fisher exact test was used for analysis. A total of 1605 patients were screened, and 1196 patients did not meet all inclusion criteria, with 251 further excluded or declining participation. A total of 158 patients (mean [SD] age, 49.1 [18.0-82.0] years; 93 [58.9%] male) were randomized into 1 of 3 groups: 55 (34.8%) in SMT, 53 (33.5%) in WBV, and 50 (31.6%) in treatment as usual (TAU). The incidence of CIPN in participants was significantly lower in both intervention groups compared to the control group (TAU): (SMT, 12 of 40 [30.0%; 95% CI, 17.9%-42.1%] and WBV, 14 of 34 [41.2%; 95% CI, 27.9%-54.5%] vs TAU, 24 of 34 [70.6%; 95% CI, 58.0%-83.2%]; P = .002 for intention to treat-MH). Patients receiving vinca alkaloids and performing SMT benefited the most. Results were more pronounced in a per-protocol analysis (>75% participation in the intervention) (SMT, 8 of 28 [28.6%; 95% CI, 16.6%-40.5%] and WBV, 9 of 24 [37.5%; 95% CI, 24.4%-50.5%] vs TAU, 22 of 30 [73.3%; 95% CI, 61.6%-85.6%]). Improvements in favor of SMT compared to TAU were found for balance control bipedal with eyes open; bipedal with eyes closed; monopedal, vibration sensitivity, sense of touch, lower leg strength, pain reduction, burning sensation, chemotherapy dose reductions, and mortality. This randomized clinical trial provides initial evidence that neuromuscular training decreases the onset of CIPN. German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00006088.

Real-world evidence of brigatinib as second-line treatment after crizotinib for ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer using South Korean claims data (K-AREAL).

There is a lack of real-world data in Asian populations for brigatinib, a next-generation anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study analysed real-world outcomes and dosing patterns for brigatinib in patients with crizotinib-refractory ALK+ NSCLC in South Korea. This retrospective, non-interventional, cohort study used South Korean Health Insurance and Review Assessment claims data for adults with ALK+ NSCLC who initiated brigatinib between 19 April 2019 and 31 March 2021 after receiving prior crizotinib. Patients' characteristics, time to discontinuation (TTD), time to dose reduction, overall survival (OS) and treatment adherence were assessed. The study included 174 patients (56.9% male; 27.0% with a history of brain metastases). Median duration of prior crizotinib was 17 (range 0.3-48) months. Median follow-up after brigatinib initiation was 18 (range 0-34) months. Overall, 88.5% of patients received full-dose brigatinib (180 mg/day) and 93.1% of patients were adherent (proportion of days covered ≥0.8). The median TTD was 24.9 months (95% CI 15.2-not reached). The probability of continuing treatment was 63.2% at 1 year and 51.5% at 2 years. The probability of continuing at full or peak dose was 79.7% at 1 year and 75.6% at 2 years. Median OS was not reached. The 2-year OS rate was 68.7%. In this first nationwide retrospective study using national insurance claim data, brigatinib demonstrated real-world clinical benefit as second-line treatment after prior crizotinib in ALK+ NSCLC patients in South Korea.

“Having cancer is very expensive”: A qualitative study of patients with ovarian cancer and PARP inhibitor treatment

ObjectiveTo examine patient barriers and facilitators to PARP inhibitor (PARP-I) maintenance therapy in ovarian cancer. PARP-I improves survival in ovarian cancer, but these multi-year therapies cost around $100,000 annually and are under-prescribed. MethodsWe recruited patients with ovarian cancer treated with PARP-I maintenance therapy at an academic health system for a semi-structured interview. Patient demographics, including genetics and PARP-I cost, were self-reported. We assessed patient experiences with barriers and facilitators of PARP-I usage. Two team members used a thematic approach to analyze and identify key themes. ResultsIn May 2022, we interviewed 10 patients (mean age = 65 years; 80% White; 60% with a germline genetic mutation). Patients paid on average $227.50 monthly for PARP-I, straining resources for some participants. While sampled patients were insured, all patients identified having no or inadequate insurance as a major barrier to PARP-I. At the same time, all participants prioritized clinical effectiveness over costs of care. Patients identified PARP-I delivery from specialty pharmacies, separate and different from other medications, as a potential barrier, but each had been able to navigate delivery. Patients expressed significant initial side effects of PARP-I as a potential barrier yet reported clinician communication and prompt dose reduction as facilitating continuation. ConclusionsPatients identified cost, restrictive pharmacy benefits, and initial side effects as barriers to PARP-I usage. Having insurance and a supportive care team were identified as facilitators. Enhancing communication about PARP-I cost and side effects could improve patient experience and receipt of evidence-based maintenance therapy in ovarian cancer.

Changes in Basal and Bolus Insulin Requirements with Tirzepatide as an Adjunctive Therapy in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Using Tandem Control-IQ.

This study was aimed at investigating changes in insulin requirements and glycemic outcomes in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using Control IQ (Tandem Diabetes) automated insulin delivery system (AID) over 8months of tirzepatide treatment. In this single-center, observational study, we collected demographic, A1c, weight, sensor glucose, and insulin dose data for adults with T1D who were using AID and initiated tirzepatide adjunct therapy for clinical indications (n = 11, median age 37, 64% female and mean body mass index of 39.6kg/m2). Data were compared from baseline and over 8months. Within 2months of tirzepatide treatment, there were significant reductions in total daily insulin [median (IQR) 73.9 (47.6-95.8) to 51.7 (46.7-66.8) units/day, p < 0.001], basal insulin [47 (28.2-51.8) to 32.4 (25.5-46.3) units/day, p < 0.001], and bolus insulin [31.4 (19.9-38.3) to 17.9 (14.9-22.2) units/day, p < 0.001] requirements. Insulin dose reduction from 2 to 8months was modest. The frequency of user-initiated boluses did not differ throughout the study. Despite reductions in total insulin requirement, time in range (70-180mg/dl) increased by 7%, A1c reduced by 0.5%, weight reduced by 9%, without increase in time below 70mg/dl. This pilot study provides clinical guidance on insulin titration for adults with T1D who may initiate tirzepatide therapy. Based on the findings of this study, we recommend reducing 25% of total daily insulin dose at tirzepatide initiation in adults with T1D using AID with baseline A1c of less than 7.5%. Higher doses of tirzepatide were associated with greater weight loss, however, the reduction in insulin requirement was minimal.

A comparative analysis of deep learning and hybrid iterative reconstruction algorithms with contrast-enhancement-boost post-processing on the image quality of indirect computed tomography venography of the lower extremities

PurposeTo examine whether there is a significant difference in image quality between the deep learning reconstruction (DLR [AiCE, Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine]) and hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR [AIDR 3D, adaptive iterative dose reduction three dimensional]) algorithms on the conventional enhanced and CE-boost (contrast-enhancement-boost) images of indirect computed tomography venography (CTV) of lower extremities.Materials and methodsIn this retrospective study, seventy patients who underwent CTV from June 2021 to October 2022 to assess deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins were included. Unenhanced and enhanced images were reconstructed for AIDR 3D and AiCE, AIDR 3D-boost and AiCE-boost images were obtained using subtraction software. Objective and subjective image qualities were assessed, and radiation doses were recorded.ResultsThe CT values of the inferior vena cava (IVC), femoral vein ( FV), and popliteal vein (PV) in the CE-boost images were approximately 1.3 (1.31–1.36) times higher than in those of the enhanced images. There were no significant differences in mean CT values of IVC, FV, and PV between AIDR 3D and AiCE, AIDR 3D-boost and AiCE-boost images. Noise in AiCE, AiCE-boost images was significantly lower than in AIDR 3D and AIDR 3D-boost images ( P < 0.05). The SNR (signal-to-noise ratio), CNR (contrast-to-noise ratio), and subjective scores of AiCE-boost images were the highest among 4 groups, surpassing AiCE, AIDR 3D, and AIDR 3D-boost images (all P < 0.05).ConclusionIn indirect CTV of the lower extremities images, DLR with the CE-boost technique could decrease the image noise and improve the CT values, SNR, CNR, and subjective image scores. AiCE-boost images received the highest subjective image quality score and were more readily accepted by radiologists.

Impact of the Endonaut® Angio-Navigation System on Radiation Exposure in Endovascular Aortic Repair Performed with Mobile C-Arms

Fusion imaging systems have proved to reduce radiation exposure mostly in hybrid rooms but reports with mobile C-arms are few. The aim of this study was to analyse the impact of the Endonaut® navigation system on radiation exposure in endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) performed with mobile C-arms. All patients undergoing EVAR and/or iliac branched devices implantation between January 2016 and August 2022 were included. All procedures were performed with a mobile C-arm (Siemens Avantic® or GE Elite® until March 2018, Siemens Cios Alpha® thereafter). The Endonaut® navigation system has been used since January 2021. Two groups were therefore compared : before (control group) and after the use of Endonaut®. Radiation data including Dose Area Product (DAP) values, Air Kerma (AK) and fluoroscopy time (FT) were collected retrospectively. Overall, 153 patients were included: control group (CGr), n = 121; Endonaut® group (EnGr), n = 32. No significant difference was found between the two groups regarding demographic data. DAP values were significantly lower in the EnGr (38 Gy.cm2 ± 24) vs. the CGr (76 Gy.cm2 ± 51) (p<.05) despite a significantly higher number of complex procedures such as iliac branched devices (p<.05). AK values were not significantly different between the EnGr and the CGr (196 mGy ± 114 vs. 209 mGy ± 138) as well as FT (33 minutes ± 18 vs. 33 minutes ± 16). Technical success was 97% (31/32) in the EnGr vs. 96% (116/121) in the CGr (p=.79). The volume of contrast media was significantly lower in the EnGr (94 cc ± 41) vs. the CGr (143 cc ± 66) (p<.05). In this study, the use of the Endonaut® angio-navigation system when performing EVAR with mobile C-arms led to a radiation dose reduction without compromising technical success or procedural time.

Gold recovery from roasted refractory gold concentrate through cyclic extraction using MnO2-assisted thiocyanate leaching and cementation with zinc powder

Cyanidation has long served as the industrial standard in the gold industry, necessitating heightened attention to cyanide management owing to its inherent toxicity. This study developed a novel MnO2-assisted thiocyanate leaching system as an alternative to cyanide. The sample was generated from a refractory gold concentrate processed by roasting, containing 54.4 g/t gold with iron oxide and quartz as the major mineral phases. Within the framework of the novel system, gold recovery was investigated in terms of gold association, recovery behavior, thermodynamics, and optimization using cyclic extraction protocols. The most suitable leaching conditions were determined as 1.20 mol/L NaSCN, 4.00 mmol/L MnO2, pH at 1.00, liquid-to-solid ratio of 4 mL/g, and leaching duration of 24 h, resulting in a maximum gold extraction of 94.8%. Subsequent zinc precipitation facilitated a gold recovery of 99.4% from the leachate. Furthermore, the implementation of a cyclic extraction scheme, coupled with reagent addition to offset consumption, yielded a significant thiocyanate dosage reduction by 75% while maintaining gold recovery. This acidic leaching system yields satisfactory gold recovery with minimized reagent consumption, particularly suited for refractory gold ore that has undergone acidic pretreatment.

Efficacy of cryotherapy in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The study investigates cryotherapy's efficacy in mitigating Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), an adverse effect of chemotherapy that often leads to dosage reduction or treatment discontinuation. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023428936). A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of cryotherapy on CIPN were included for systematic review and meta-analysis. The primary outcome for prevention was the incidence of CIPN. We identified 17 trials involving 2,851 patients. In total, 11 trials compared the incidence of CIPN between cryotherapy and control groups. Significant differences in the incidence of CIPN at the midpoint and end of chemotherapy were observed, with risk ratios (RRs) of 0.23 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.13 to 0.43) and 0.54 (95% CI = 0.33 to 0.88), respectively. Cryotherapy also significantly reduced the incidence of sensory CIPN, with an RR of 0.67 (95% CI = 0.49 to 0.92). Additionally, cryotherapy demonstrated a significant reduction in the incidence of CIPN in patients with gynecological cancers (RR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.41). Significantly favorable global quality of life scores following chemotherapy (standardized mean difference = 1.43; 95% CI = 0.50 to 2.36) and relieved neuropathic symptoms were found with cryotherapy. Cryotherapy demonstrates a pronounced preventive effect against the development of CIPN, providing substantial symptomatic relief and quality of life improvements for patients undergoing chemotherapy. The administration of cryotherapy through the use of frozen gloves and socks, or continuous-flow cooling systems, optimally initiated 15min prior to and concluded 15min following chemotherapy, is recommended for achieving maximum therapeutic efficacy.

A Locally Advanced NSCLC Patient Harboring a Rare KIF13A-RET Fusion Benefited from Pralsetinib: A Case Report

The application of adjuvant treatment has significantly enhanced the survival of patients with resectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) carrying driver gene mutations. However, adjuvant-targeted therapy remains controversial for some NSCLC patients carrying rare gene mutations such as RET, as there is currently a lack of confirmed randomized controlled trials demonstrating efficacy. In this report, we describe the case of a 58-year-old man with stage IIIA NSCLC who underwent complete lobectomy with selective lymph node dissection. Postoperative next-generation sequencing revealed that the patient harbored a rare KIF13A-RET fusion. The patient elected to receive adjuvant treatment with pralsetinib monotherapy and underwent serial circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) monitoring after surgery. During follow-up, despite experiencing dose reduction and irregular medication adherence, the patient still achieved a satisfactory disease-free survival (DFS) of 27 months. Furthermore, ctDNA predicted tumor recurrence 4 months earlier than imaging techniques. The addition of bevacizumab to the original regimen upon recurrence continued to be beneficial. Pralsetinib demonstrated promising efficacy as adjuvant therapy, while ctDNA analysis offered a valuable tool for early detection of tumor recurrence. By leveraging targeted therapies and innovative monitoring techniques, we aim to improve outcomes and quality of life for NSCLC patients in the future.

Analysis of Deep Learning Image Reconstruction Application for Pediatric Abdominal CT Dose Reduction

Analysis of Deep Learning Image Reconstruction Application for Pediatric Abdominal CT Dose Reduction

CT image quality and dose optimization by combining tube voltage, dose reduction setting and ASIR-V (explorative study using VCT phantom)

Utilization of ASIR-V software to improve CT scan images with lower exposure factor settings has enormous potential to produce CT scan images with minimal dose and optimal image quality. Otherwise, the excessive use of iterative reconstruction may lead to poor image quality. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in radiation dose and image quality in the combination of tube voltage, dose reduction and ASIR-V settings and giving recommendation out of it. This type of research is quasi-experimental with a pretest posttest design. VCT Quality Assurance phantom scanned with abdominal CT parameters with the combination of tube voltage variations and dose reduction settings then reconstructed using ASIR-V. Image quality data including noise, LCD and HCR obtained were analyzed by using the paired t-test statistical test. The lowest dose (2.01 mGy) resulted from the combination of tube voltage setting 80 kV, 60% dose reduction, and the dose reduction in the treatment group was in the range of 49% - 87%. The lowest noise was produced by a combination of tube voltage settings of 80 kV, 60% dose reduction, and 100% ASIR-V and noise reduction in the treatment group in the range of 15% -68%. There are significant differences in low contrast detectability of image obtained from 15 combination of tube voltage settings, and dose reduction setting after ASIR-V reconstruction on CT scans. Meanwhile, there are significant differences of extreme contrast spatial resolution in 13 combinations of the tube voltage and dose reduction setting after ASIR-V reconstruction showed. Decreasing the tube voltage and increasing the dose reduction value results in a lesser radiation dose accompanied by a decrease in image quality, while the application of ASIR-V is proven to improve the quality of CT scan images including noise and low contrast detectability, in the other hand the excessive use of ASIR-V may also decrease high contrast spatial resolution of the image. The combination of image quality that is closest to the image quality of the control group is a combination of tube voltage settings of 120 kV, 60% dose reduction and 60% ASIR-V which produces a radiation dose of 6.37 mGy.

Quantitative 3D-CT imaging of sarcopenia mitigation in the elderly: evidence from a case report.

This case study examines the effectiveness of using combined CT imaging and 3D imaging in monitoring the prevention of sarcopenia through continuous daily exercises in an elderly patient. Using a 256-slice CT scanner with dose reduction technology and advanced muscle segmentation with the open-source software DAFNE, we compared changes in muscle mass and density in a 70-year-old patient in 2014 and in 2023. The obtained images allowed the creation of detailed 3D models for a more accurate and intuitive assessment of the leg musculature. Despite aging, the results of the scans performed at the beginning and end of the study period did not show significant changes in the patient's musculature, suggesting that a persistent Full-Body in-Bed Gym protocol ("Gym Bed" exercise routine) can effectively contribute to maintaining muscle mass and density in the elderly. These preliminary results highlight the potential of advanced imaging techniques not only to diagnose but also to quantify the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions against sarcopenia.