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At least 1,315 records · Page 73

One-Carbon Metabolism and SANS 2022 Update

Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome, or SANS, affects a subset of astronauts (1, 2), and biochemical evidence has documented differences in those astronauts (3). Specifically, they had higher circulating concentrations of metabolites of the one-carbon metabolic pathway (1C), including homocysteine, and these concentrations were higher before flight (3). After ruling out many potential confounding factors in these otherwise healthy individuals (e.g., sex, kidney function, vitamin status, coffee consumption), a study of genetics was warranted. In an initial pilot effort, we documented a genetic predisposition to develop ophthalmic changes after long-duration space flight (4). That is, from a limited study of 5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we found that the G allele for the MTRR A66G SNP was associated with a greater risk of choroidal folds and cotton-wool spots after flight, and the C allele for SHMT1 C1420T was protective against optic disc edema (4). These data provide a potential pathway for understanding why some individuals develop SANS, while others do not. The initial pilot study of 5 SNPs yielded striking findings, but the 1C pathway is far more complex. An effort was undertaken to examine more than 500 1C SNPs to see if a broader examination could help illuminate this association. That work is ongoing. The astronaut findings led us to advocate for the inclusion of 1C pathway genetic and biochemistry testing on other SANS-related projects, noting that genetics might help identify responders, non-responders, or outliers. The first such effort yielded evidence of an association of specific forms of the MTRR and SHMT-1 SNPs and vitamin B12 status with end-tidal CO2 after acute carbon dioxide exposure (5). The second such effort led to the identification that individuals exposed to strict head-down tilt and CO2 for 30-d who developed optic disc edema also had risk alleles for the two SNPs described above (6). Additionally, we identified a clinical population with many characteristics either attributed or purported to be involved in the ocular changes seen in affected astronauts: women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a condition of androgen excess and anovulatory menstrual cycles. The shared characteristics and clinical findings between SANS and PCOS generally include higher circulating homocysteine concentrations, increased retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, increased androgen concentrations (or responses), and altered carbohydrate metabolism. To our knowledge, no study has examined whether women with PCOS have asymptomatic ophthalmic anomalies observed in astronauts with SANS. While researchers have evaluated the one-carbon metabolism pathway polymorphisms of PCOS patients, and initial studies show an association with certain one-carbon polymorphisms, none have looked at the set of SNPs identified in our studies that are associated with ophthalmic changes in astronauts. Accordingly, we designed a study to evaluate the association of one-carbon pathway SNPs and ophthalmic findings in patients with PCOS and/or IIH compared to controls. Subjects provided blood samples for vitamin and one carbon biochemistry analyses, an extensive analysis of >500 SNPs associated with one carbon metabolism and had eye examinations and ocular imaging. Data analysis are underway. The data collected to date have shown associations between one carbon pathway biochemistry and genetics and incidence of SANS. The mechanisms for SANS has yet to be identified, although many hypotheses exist. Based on our data, we have developed (8, 9) and expanded (6) a multi-hit hypothesis for how these seemingly disparate findings could be linked. While intriguing, the hypothesis represents the starting point for further research. We aim to clarify the relationship between B-vitamin status and genetics with regard to the risk of SANS. Ultimately, understanding the mechanism(s) behind this will provide a means to predict, prevent, or treat these ophthalmologic pathologies in astronauts, and terrestrial populations.

S M Smith↗

Application of Bioengineering in Space Exploration - Sleep Study System

Bioengineering has spread roots far and wide among the needs of space exploration. The field creates many of paths to generate information from a variety of sources. One such source is the astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS). As of now the investigation is focused on the quality of sleep of crew members during a long duration flight. Our team is investing time into a piece of hardware’s comfort, waste, and operability. The hardware was not originally designed for space; therefore, the device must be modified to function at a optimal level in space. The design not made for space has generated some ailments, such as discomfort and decreased mobility. A function of the internship was to produce designs that would manage the wires to increase mobility and comfort. The wires excess slack was reduced by the part that was designed. The piece was adjustable, so the patient may adjust the system to their comfort and space compatible material was used. This product will help control the direction and length of the wires, thereby aiding in comforting the patient. This multifaceted design may be used in future for all other wire management for wearable biomedical sensor on orbit.

Biomedical↗

Flow Cytometry Methods to Monitor Immune System Dysregulation in Astronauts

Persistent immune system dysregulation has been documented to occur in astronauts participating in orbital spaceflight onboard the International Space Station. The phenomenon consists of reductions in T and NK cell function, altered cytokine profiles, persistent inflammation, and the subclinical reactivation of latent herpesviruses. In select crewmembers the dysregulation does actually lead to clinical symptoms, primarily atypical allergy or atopic dermatitis/zoster. Flow cytometry has served a central role defining the ‘immune assessment’ panel of assays that allow monitoring of astronauts. The cytometry assays which have been utilized include: 1. Peripheral leukocyte subsets 2. T cell function 3. Monocyte function 4. NK cell function 5. Intracellular cytokine analysis 6. Virus-specific T cell number (tetramer assay) 7. Virus-specific T cell function (peptide stimulation) 8. Leukocyte-bacterial challenge cytometry 9. Cytometric bead/multiplex array (soluble proteins) The use of these assays has been validated through various ISS flight investigations to define, to varying degrees, both in-flight, and post-flight immune system alterations. The kinetics of the dysregulation through the various phases of spaceflight, as well as post-flight recovery, have also been documented. To allow the science to occur within the orbital constraints of a spaceflight investigation, particular sample collection and processing techniques were developed compatible with the delays associated with terrestrial processing of in-flight samples. A subset of the assays has been adapted to routine monitoring of astronauts via a NASA ‘ISS Standard Measures’ activity, with the data from a specific crew then provided to all science investigators for that particular mission. This battery of cytometry assays has also been applied, through ground investigations, to several terrestrial ‘spaceflight analog’ populations. The purpose was to validate the analog which most closely replicates the in-flight observed pattern of alterations, generally believed to be winterover at an Antarctica station. To assist in determination of clinical risk, the assay panel has also been applied to investigations of various terrestrial patient populations, particularly zoster patients. As NASA is initiating crewed lunar missions via the ‘Artemis’ program, deployment of a miniaturized, microgravity-compatible flow cytometer, would be extremely beneficial to allow real time monitoring of crewmembers. Real time medical data could influence use of several countermeasures options during deep space missions. Several such instruments have been developed and validated to varying degrees of success. Assay details and summary findings across the various flight and ground platforms will be presented, as will current status in developing such technology for in-flight use.

Brian Crucian↗

Exploration Atmosphere Demonstration of A Multi-Functional Integrated Medical Device (Tempus Pro)

INTRODUCTION The Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) element within the Human Research Program and the Exploration Medical Integrated Product Team (XMIPT) within the Mars Campaign Office seek to advance medical system design and risk-informed decision-making for exploration missions. This includes assessment of candidate devices and their compatibility within a variety of increasingly Earth-independent medical scenarios. The Tempus Pro (Remote Diagnostic Technologies, Ltd., Philips Corp., Farnborough, UK) is a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS), multi-functional integrated medical device capable of vital signs monitoring, with built-in procedure support (iAssist), patient record and telemedicine communication features, and medical imaging (e.g., camera, laryngoscope, ultrasound) that meets multiple exploration medical capability needs. One of several hypobaric atmospheres being considered for exploration vehicles is 8.2 psi with 34% oxygen. To assess the useability of the Tempus Pro in such environments by individuals without formal medical training, the unit was tested in May and June of 2023 at the Johnson Space Center 20-Foot Exploration Atmosphere Chamber in conjunction with the Exploration Atmospheres-2 (EA-2) study. TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION Eight subjects in the EA-2 study were assigned roles as the caregiver or patient – or both in the case of a self-exam – and caregivers were asked to place sensors for 3-Lead ECG, non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP), pulse oximetry (SpO2), and temperature using Tempus Pro’s iAssist. Depending on the procedure, additional tasks included an oropharyngeal exam of the throat with the laryngoscope and capturing ultrasound images of a cardiac subxiphoid view or of the user’s choice from a pre-specified list. Scenarios ranged from remote-guided to fully autonomous operations and surveyed the effectiveness of support, amount of support desired, and importance of support by type (e.g., written crew procedures, iAssist and device guidance, remote console guidance, etc.). Feedback from the subjects and the support personnel was also gathered to inform future designs for training and support and to determine what operations are plausible given different levels of each. An unweighted NASA task load index (TLX) was used to profile the demands of using the device, however the sample size does not support statistics. The research was exploratory in nature and qualitative information was the main goal. Calibration checks on the Tempus Pro were conducted before and after chamber testing to ensure the device was in useable condition. RESULTS All subjects performed their tasks successfully and found the Tempus Pro easy to use with the support provided. The calibration checks outside the chamber showed that the Tempus Pro remained unchanged and measurements inside the chamber were within normal values. Caregivers taking the NASA TLX reported mean scores ≤ 41/100 showing the tasks to be undemanding and less demanding with repeated use (~20/100). Novice users were able to easily connect sensors and take vital signs with the guidance from Tempus Pro’s iAssist feature. For more complex tasks, such as the oropharyngeal exam and ultrasound image acquisition, guidance beyond iAssist was needed, primarily from a supporting physician. Feedback on the importance of support types varied by person and scenario but greater than 50% of the support used by each was non-native to the device. Overall opinions were positive, but the ultrasound users expressed a lack of confidence in their results and 3 out of 4 desired more time, training, or support. Subjects found the sensors to be comfortable and comparable to prior experiences with such devices, except for the blood pressure cuff, which squeezed too tightly for uncomfortably long periods. Many observations provoked discussion, especially regarding ultrasound, that will aide decisions about future demonstrations.

R. S. Miller↗

Limitations and Feasibility of Mini X-Ray Devices in Space Environments

LIMITATIONS AND FEASIBILITY OF MINI X-RAY DEVICES IN SPACE ENVIRONMENTS As space exploration advances toward long-duration missions, reliable medical diagnostic tools become increasingly critical. The miniature x-ray (XR) technology demonstrations by the Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) and the Exploration Medical Integrated Product Team (XMIPT) aim to assess the feasibility and utility of miniature XR devices in spaceflight. This abstract explores the limitations of current miniature XR systems, the challenges of training crew members, the potential role of clinical decision support systems (CDSS), and the feasibility of ground-based image interpretation. We also propose the integration of miniature XR into other ExMC efforts aimed at identifying the capabilities and resources needed for future exploration class missions. One of the primary challenges with miniature XR devices is the ability to achieve specific anatomical views, particularly in the confined and weightless conditions of a spacecraft. Operators may struggle to acquire diagnostic-quality images when space is limited for proper patient positioning and the volume of the imaging device. Since space radiation and detector limitations may further impact image quality, the flexibility of the operating procedures of these devices will be critical for their success in space applications. CHALLENGES IN TRAINING CREW TO OPERATE IMAGING DEVICES Training in the skills necessary to acquire diagnostic-quality scans may be a barrier for non-clinician crewmembers. The curriculum developed for crew medical officers (CMOs) will require simplification and adaptation to fit into the highly truncated pre-flight training period. Therefore, hands-on familiarization and simulation, both pre-flight and just-in-time training during missions, will be crucial to ensuring the crew can operate the devices in real-life situations. The ability to adjust acquisition parameters must be simplified or made automatic through exam selections on equipment user interfaces, and subject and operator positioning should be assisted with laser guidance and pictorial guides. POTENTIAL FOR CDSS OR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)-ASSISTED CDSS CDSS and AI-assisted CDSS offer significant promise in assisting crew members with limited medical training. These systems could provide real-time feedback on image quality and interpretation, helping to mitigate the risks of human error during space missions. Integrating procedural guidance tools, such as virtual and augmented reality, will support crewmembers in accurately positioning patients and obtaining high-quality images. However, the success of such systems will depend on the development of robust training datasets, integration with spaceflight-rated hardware, and the medical decision-making capabilities of operators. FEASIBILITY OF GROUND INTERPRETATION AND DATA TRANSMISSION Reliance on ground-based interpretation may prove difficult for acute care during exploration class-missions due to delays in transmission with increasing distance from Earth or complete communication blackout periods. In such instances where immediate interpretation for clinical intervention is required, crew must be able to interpret the images independently or utilize AI-based assistance to do so. File sizes for XR exams can also be large if numerous images are acquired and bandwidth constraints may limit data transmissions for both radiography and ultrasound exams. FUTURE WORK AND INTEGRATION INTO THE EVIDENCE LIBRARY Future work proposes integrating miniature XR devices into NASA’s Evidence Library to address medical conditions identified as significant contributors to crew morbidity and mortality. The possibility of combining miniature XR with other imaging modalities, such as ultrasound devices, is also under investigation. In conclusion, while miniature XR technology holds potential for extraterrestrial medical systems, there are significant challenges to overcome. Training, integration of AI tools, dedicated exam protocols for microgravity, and improved data transmission systems will be key to realizing the full benefits of miniature XR technology in space.

A M Nelson↗

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to Assess Changes to Trabecular Microarchitecture (Trb µArch) of the Hip

BACKGROUND . Calculated loss rates in trabecular (Trb) volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD), in astronauts after return from 6-month long-duration (LD) spaceflight, are rapid relative to menopause-induced loss rates and could contribute to the observed lack of recovery. Perforations in the Trb bony struts, skeletal fragility and fractures [5] have been associated with the rapid rate of bone loss in women due to menopause. The more rapid loss rate observed in astronauts could be inducing similar, irreversible losses of trabecular connectivity as seen in cadaver studies of female skeletons. These changes are not detectable by DXA technology and would not be discovered in astronauts during scheduled, triennial DXA testing for primary osteoporosis. High-resolution-peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) of the lower leg have detected losses in Trb vBMD (vBMD) and changes in Trb microarchitecture (µArch) in astronauts immediately following routine 6-month spaceflights and continuing in some individuals for 1 or more years postflight with no signs of recovery. Resolution of these microarchitectural changes by whole body QCT, especially in the deeply embedded hip bone, is prohibitive due to excessive and unsafe radiation exposures. While HR-pQCT has sufficient resolution to study Trb µArch at safe and lower radiation exposure testing is restricted only to the lower leg and wrist. Hence, a technology to detect detrimental changes to Trb µArch in astronauts, especially of the hip, is needed to inform type and timing of countermeasures to irreversible deficits (preflight, inflight and postflight). METHODS . This HRP-funded study (2023-2027) will verify the sensitivity of a protocol for MRI scanning (on a 3T Siemens Vida) to detect changes to hip Trb µArch in persons following spinal cord injury (SCI); skeletal immobilization below the spinal lesion will serve as an analog for non-weight-bearing during spaceflight. The study period has been extended by 1 yr due to delayed Richmond IRB approval in Y1. A 3T MRI protocol will characterize serial changes in hip Trb µArch in SCI patients from time of admission at the Richmond VA Medical Center to their scheduled annual exam 12-months later. SCI patients with age, sex, and physical characteristics like ISS astronauts will be consented. The ability of 3T MRI hip scan to discriminate loss of trabecular connectivity subjects with SCI will be compared to age- and sex-matched ambulatory controls. A comparison between HR-pQCT and MRI measurements at the ankle (distal tibia) of study subjects will also be performed. A modified DXA scan analysis (3D-Shaper) will also be verified as a potential method for monitoring concurrent changes in hip Trb bone over 12-month. SIGNIFICANCE . Deliverables: a surveillance method for assessing for irreversible losses of connectivity and how skeletal changes after LD spaceflight(s) would modify the terrestrial risk of primary osteoporosis.

Spinal Cord Injury↗

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to Assess Changes to Trabecular Microarchitecture (Trb µArch) of the Hip

BACKGROUND . Calculated loss rates in trabecular (Trb) volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD), in astronauts after return from 6-month long-duration (LD) spaceflight, are rapid relative to menopause-induced loss rates and could contribute to the observed lack of recovery. Perforations in the Trb bony struts, skeletal fragility and fractures [5] have been associated with the rapid rate of bone loss in women due to menopause. The more rapid loss rate observed in astronauts could be inducing similar, irreversible losses of trabecular connectivity as seen in cadaver studies of female skeletons. These changes are not detectable by DXA technology and would not be discovered in astronauts during scheduled, triennial DXA testing for primary osteoporosis. High-resolution-peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) of the lower leg have detected losses in Trb vBMD (vBMD) and changes in Trb microarchitecture (µArch) in astronauts immediately following routine 6-month spaceflights and continuing in some individuals for 1 or more years postflight with no signs of recovery. Resolution of these microarchitectural changes by whole body QCT, especially in the deeply embedded hip bone, is prohibitive due to excessive and unsafe radiation exposures. While HR-pQCT has sufficient resolution to study Trb µArch at safe and lower radiation exposure testing is restricted only to the lower leg and wrist. Hence, a technology to detect detrimental changes to Trb µArch in astronauts, especially of the hip, is needed to inform type and timing of countermeasures to irreversible deficits (preflight, inflight and postflight). METHODS . This HRP-funded study (2023-2027) will verify the sensitivity of a protocol for MRI scanning (on a 3T Siemens Vida) to detect changes to hip Trb µArch in persons following spinal cord injury (SCI); skeletal immobilization below the spinal lesion will serve as an analog for non-weight-bearing during spaceflight. The study period has been extended by 1 yr due to delayed Richmond IRB approval in Y1. A 3T MRI protocol will characterize serial changes in hip Trb µArch in SCI patients from time of admission at the Richmond VA Medical Center to their scheduled annual exam 12-months later. SCI patients with age, sex, and physical characteristics like ISS astronauts will be consented. The ability of 3T MRI hip scan to discriminate loss of trabecular connectivity subjects with SCI will be compared to age- and sex-matched ambulatory controls. A comparison between HR-pQCT and MRI measurements at the ankle (distal tibia) of study subjects will also be performed. A modified DXA scan analysis (3D-Shaper) will also be verified as a potential method for monitoring concurrent changes in hip Trb bone over 12-month. SIGNIFICANCE . Deliverables: a surveillance method for assessing for irreversible losses of connectivity and how skeletal changes after LD spaceflight(s) would modify the terrestrial risk of primary osteoporosis.

Risk Surveillance↗

Anomaly Detection in Sequential Health Care Data using Higher-Order Network Representation

The ever-increasing use of information technology (IT) in health care presents new challenges to patient care. Information errors arising from the use of Health IT and their implications on care delivery and patient outcomes have been widely reported. Information errors can lead to changes in clinical decisions, care processes, and care outcomes, among others. An altered care process, for example, could interrupt the sequence of care, which could lead to changes in care decisions and/or changes in care outcomes. We define interruptions in the care process as anomalies in the care sequence. In this paper, we present a new approach based on the higher-order network (HON) representation to detect anomalies in sequential health care data using electronic health records. The results show that there are higher-order dependencies in health care data; and that the use of HON representation is more effective than the first-order network representation for detecting anomalies in sequential health care data.

Niu, Haoran↗

Methods and compositions for protection of cells and tissues from computed tomography radiation

Described are methods for preventing or inhibiting genomic instability and in cells affected by diagnostic radiology procedures employing ionizing radiation. Embodiments include methods of preventing or inhibiting genomic instability and in cells affected by computed tomography (CT) radiation. Subjects receiving ionizing radiation may be those persons suspected of having cancer, or cancer patients having received or currently receiving cancer therapy, and or those patients having received previous ionizing radiation, including those who are approaching or have exceeded the recommended total radiation dose for a person.

Grdina, David J.↗

Seizure detection device

Example aspects of a collector for a seizure detection device, a seizure detection device, and a method of detecting a seizure are disclosed. The collector for a seizure detection device can comprise a collector material configured to collect volatile organic compounds given off from a patient's skin; a wrapping configured to isolate the collector material from an external environment; a heater comprising a heating element, the heating element configured to emit a thermal pulse to desorb the volatile organic compounds from the collector material; and a mesh layer configured to prevent the collector material from contacting the patient's skin, wherein the collector material is received between the wrapping and the mesh layer.

Arnold, Gary Stephen↗

Volatile organic compound detection device

A volatile organic compound collector can include a collector material configured to collect volatile organic compounds given off from a patient's skin; a wrapping configured to isolate the collector material from an external environment; a heater comprising a heating element, the heating element configured to emit a thermal pulse to desorb the volatile organic compounds from the collector material; and a mesh layer configured to prevent the collector material from contacting the patient's skin, wherein the collector material is received between the wrapping and the mesh layer.

Arnold, Gary Stephen↗

Centromere/kinetochore protein genes for cancer diagnosis, prognosis and treatment selection

The invention described in the application relates to a panel of gene expression markers for patient with a tumor. The invention thus provides methods and compositions, e.g., kits, for evaluating gene expression levels of the markers and methods of using such gene expression levels to evaluate the likelihood of disease progression or response to chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Such information can be used in determining prognosis and treatment options for cancer patients.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Acute shortage ventilator

We have implemented an ″Acute Shortage Ventilator″ (ASV) motivated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the possibility of severe ventilator shortages in the near future. The unit cost per ventilator is less than $400 US excluding the patient circuit parts. The ASV mechanically compresses a self-inflating bag resuscitator, uses a modified patient circuit, and is commanded by a microcontroller and an optional laptop. It operates in both Volume-Controlled Assist-Control mode and a Pressure-Controlled Assist-Control mode. It has been tested using an artificial lung against the EURS guidelines. The key design goals were to develop a simple device with high performance for short-term use, made primarily from common hospital parts and generally-available non-medical components, and at low cost and ease in manufacturing.

Breur, Sander↗

Volatile organic compound detection device

A volatile organic compound detection device includes a collector comprising: a collector material configured to collect volatile organic compounds given off from a patient's skin; a heater comprising a heating element, the heating element configured to emit a thermal pulse to desorb the volatile organic compounds from the collector material; and a flow channel configured to receive the volatile organic compounds desorbed by the heater; and a fastener configured to secure the collector to the patient's skin.

Arnold, Gary Stephen↗

MRI Load Profile Characterization Across Scanner Manufacturers and Field Strengths - Opportunities for Energy Efficiency Improvements

Radiology plays a vital role in patient care, but a reliance on energy-intensive imaging equipment leads to significant greenhouse gas emissions. MRI scanners can consume up to 80% of their total energy during times when there is not active patient imaging. Characterizing MRI average power and time to enter low-power mode across scanning protocols can identify energy efficiency opportunities.

emissions↗

Production of High Specific Activity 155 Tb, 161 Tb and 203 Pb for Research and Clinical Applications: Effective Target Design, Target Material Recycling and Radioisotope Separation (Final Technical Report)

The overall objectives of this project were (1) to develop methods for the production and separation of a diagnostic and therapeutic or “theranostic” pair of radioisotopes, terbium-155 ( 155 Tb) and terbium-161 ( 161 Tb) and (2) to train graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in technologies and methods used in radionuclide production. Radionuclides can be incorporated into drugs called radiopharmaceuticals that target a specific disease (e.g., cancer). The need for theranostic radionuclides is escalating with the clinical translation of radiopharmaceuticals due to their implementation in personalized medicine, which has demonstrated enhanced patient treatments. High purity and high specific activity radionuclides are critical for theranostic agent development, for example to maintain diagnostic image quality, to minimize radiation dose to the patient, and to increase uptake in the targeted tissue (e.g., tumor), especially in the case of receptor- and antigen-targeted agents. The 155 Tb (diagnostic) and 161 Tb (therapeutic) radioisotopes that were generated through this project are a theranostic pair with demonstrated potential for the development and translation into individualized, targeted, and dosimetry-driven radiotherapies. However, the development of such radiotherapies has been hindered by the lack of a routine and reliable supply of these isotopes in the United States. Methods for the production, separation, and supply of 155 Tb and 161 Tb were investigated and developed in this project. Further, the strong emphasis throughout the project on the training of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows has helped to ensure and enhance the nuclear science workforce through the training of the next generation of highly qualified scientists in nuclear and radiochemistry. This grant also continued a collaboration between scientists at the University of Washington (UW), the University of Missouri (MU) and Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL). All three institutions were involved in the project, but to different degrees on the various tasks through which the overall objectives were met.

07 ISOTOPE AND RADIATION SOURCES↗

Spinal Cord Dose Tolerance to Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

Spinal cord tolerance data for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) were extracted from published reports, reviewed, and modelled. For de novo SBRT delivered in 1 to 5 fractions, the following spinal cord point maximum doses (D{sub max}) are estimated to be associated with a 1% to 5% risk of radiation myelopathy (RM): 12.4 to 14.0 Gy in 1 fraction, 17.0 Gy in 2 fractions, 20.3 Gy in 3 fractions, 23.0 Gy in 4 fractions, and 25.3 Gy in 5 fractions. For reirradiation SBRT delivered in 1 to 5 fractions, reported factors associated with a lower risk of RM include cumulative thecal sac equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions with an alpha/beta of 2 (EQD2{sub 2}) D{sub max} ≤70 Gy; SBRT thecal sac EQD2{sub 2} D{sub max} ≤25 Gy, thecal sac SBRT EQD2{sub 2} D{sub max} to cumulative EQD2{sub 2} D{sub max} ratio ≤0.5, and a minimum time interval to reirradiation of ≥5 months. Larger studies containing complete institutional cohorts with dosimetric data of patients treated with spine SBRT, with and without RM, are required to refine RM risk estimates.

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE↗

Modeling of Tumor Control Probability in Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Adrenal Tumors

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in the management of adrenal metastases is emerging as a well-tolerated, effective method of treatment for patients with limited metastatic disease. SBRT planning and treatment utilization are widely variable, and publications report heterogeneous radiation dose fractionation schemes and treatment outcomes. The objective of this analysis was to review the current literature on SBRT for adrenal metastases and to develop treatment guidelines and a model for tumor control probability of SBRT for adrenal metastases based on these publications.

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE↗