Prognostication Based on Texture Analysis of Baseline 18F Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Nonsmall-Cell Lung Carcinoma Patients Who Underwent Platinum-Based Chemotherapy as First-Line Treatment.

OBJECTIVE: Our study aims to establish the potential for tumor heterogeneity evaluated using 18F fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (F-18 FDG PET/CT) texture analysis in nonsmall-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) patients who underwent platinum-based chemotherapy to provide an independent marker for overall survival (OS) of more than 1-year. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 42 patients (34 male and 8 female) with biopsy-proven NSCLC and mean age 55.33 ± 10.71 years who underwent a baseline F-18 FDG PET/CT and received platinum-based chemotherapy as first-line treatment were retrospectively included in the study. Ten first order, 21 s order texture parameters and 7 SUV and metabolic tumor volume (MTV) based metabolic parameters were calculated. All these parameters were compared between the two survival groups based on OS ≥1 year and OS <1 year. Cut-offs of significant parameters were determined using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Survival patterns were compared by log-rank test and presented using Kaplan-Meier curves. Cox proportion hazard model was used to determine the independent prognostic marker for 1 year OS. RESULTS: In univariate survival analysis, 3 first order texture parameters (i.e. mean, median, root mean square with hazard ratios [HRs] 2.509 [P = 0.034], 2.590 [P = 0.05], 2.509 [P = 0.034], respectively) and 6 s order texture parameters (i.e. mean, auto correlation, cluster prominence, cluster shade, sum average and sum variance with HRs 2.509 [P = 0.034], 2.509 [P = 0.034], 3.929 [0.007], 2.903 [0.018], 2.954 [0.016] and 2.906 [0.014], respectively) were significantly associated with 1 year OS in these patients. Among the metabolic parameters, only metabolic tumor volume whole-body was significantly associated with 1 year OS. In multivariate survival analysis, cluster prominence came out as the independent predictor of 1 year OS. CONCLUSION: Texture analysis based on F-18 FDG PET/CT is potentially beneficial in the prediction of OS ≥1 year in NSCLC patients undergoing platinum-based chemotherapy as first-line treatment. Thus, can be used to stratify the patients which will not be benefitted with platinum-based chemotherapy and essentially needs to undergo some other therapy option.

The cricothyroid versus Spray-As-You-Go method for topical anesthesia during Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration (EBUS-TBNA): The CRISPEN randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Guidelines for flexible bronchoscopy in adults recommend both Cricothyroid and Spray-as-you-go method as the acceptable techniques for lignocaine administration. No studies have compared these two methods for topical anesthesia during endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). OBJECTIVES: Co-primary outcomes were the comparison of cough count and operator-rated overall procedure satisfaction on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) between the groups. The secondary outcomes were cumulative lignocaine dose, time from bronchoscope introduction to crossing the vocal cords, procedure duration, and complications between the groups. METHODS: Consecutive participants (age >18 years) undergoing EBUS-TBNA were randomized (1:1) to either cricothyroid or spray-as-you-go methods for lignocaine administration. RESULTS: Three hundred and sixty-five participants were randomized (183: Cricothyroid and 182: Spray-as-you-go). Cough count till reaching carina (median [interquartile range]) was significantly lower (cricothyroid, 1 [0-2] vs. spray-as-you-go, 4 [2-6], P < 0.001) and operator rated overall procedure satisfaction, on VAS (mean ± standard deviation) (cricothyroid, 7.96 ± 1.48 vs. spray-as-you-go, 7.29 ± 1.48, P < 0.001) significantly greater in the cricothyroid group. Cumulative lignocaine dose (163.28 ± 31.50 mg vs. 177.0 ± 30.12 mg, P < 0.0001) and time from bronchoscope introduction to crossing the vocal cords (20.80 ± 11.21 s vs. 38.08 ± 15.26 s, P < 0.001) was significantly lower in the cricothyroid group. Procedure duration was similar in both the groups. Minor complications occurred in three patients in cricothyroid and six patients in the spray-as-you-go group (P = 0.31). CONCLUSIONS: Cricothyroid lignocaine administration is associated with less cough and superior operator-rated procedure satisfaction during EBUS-TBNA, at a lower cumulative lignocaine dose administered. TRIAL REGISTRATION: www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT02981264.

The Cricothyroid versus Spray-As-You-Go Method for Topical Anesthesia during Flexible Bronchoscopy: The CRISP Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Comparative characteristics of the cricothyroid injection and spray-as-you-go methods for lidocaine administration during diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy are not clear. OBJECTIVES: Co-primary outcomes were comparison of cough count from bronchoscope introduction until reaching carina and operator-rated overall procedure satisfaction on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) between groups. Secondary outcomes were cumulative lidocaine dose, procedure duration, assistant-rated cough, willingness to return for repeat procedure, and procedural complications between groups. METHODS: Consecutive subjects were randomized (1:1) to either the cricothyroid or the spray-as-you-go method for topical anesthesia to the vocal cords and trachea. All received nasal 2% lidocaine gel and pharyngeal 10% lidocaine spray. RESULTS: A total of 500 subjects were randomized, and 495 subjects were analyzed (248 cricothyroid and 247 spray-as-you-go). Cough count until reaching carina (median [range]) was significantly lower (cricothyroid, 1 [0-10], and spray-as-you-go, 4 [0-30], p < 0.0001) and operator-rated overall procedure satisfaction, VAS (mean ± standard deviation) (cricothyroid, 7.86 ± 1.39 and spray-as-you-go, 6.86 ± 1.59, p < 0.0001) significantly greater in the cricothyroid group. Patient willingness to return for repeat procedure was greater (87.1 vs. 70.5%, p < 0.001)) and cumulative lidocaine dose significantly lower (305.08 ± 13.40 vs. 322.18 ± 10.67 mg, p < 0.001) in the cricothyroid group. Minor complications occurred in 6 patients in the cricothyroid group and 9 patients in the spray-as-you-go group. CONCLUSION: Cricothyroid lidocaine administration is associated with less cough and superior operator-rated procedure satisfaction during bronchoscopy at a lower cumulative lidocaine dose.

Nebulized lignocaine for topical anaesthesia in no-sedation bronchoscopy (NEBULA): A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The role of nebulized lignocaine administration for flexible bronchoscopy is unclear. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, subjects undergoing diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy were randomized to receive either nebulized lignocaine (2.5 ml of 4% lignocaine) or nebulized (2.5 ml of 0.9%) saline (placebo). All received 10% lignocaine pharyngeal spray (4 sprays) and 5-ml nasal 2% lignocaine gel. 1% lignocaine solution was used for spray-as-you-go administration in all. Co-primary outcomes were Operator-rated overall procedure satisfaction and Operator-rated cough scores on Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Secondary objectives were cumulative lignocaine dose, proportion of subjects receiving >8.2-mg/kg lignocaine, and complications between the groups. RESULTS: Two hundred and twenty subjects were randomized and 217 (109 - nebulized lignocaine and 108 - placebo) received the intervention. Baseline characteristics were comparable. Operator-rated overall procedure satisfaction scores on VAS (7.30 ± 1.54 nebulized lignocaine and 7.50 ± 1.31 placebo group,P = 0.85) and Operator-rated cough scores on VAS (3 [2-5] nebulized lignocaine and 3 [2-4] placebo group,P = 0.18) were similar. Cumulative lignocaine dose was significantly greater in nebulized lignocaine group (331.46 ± 9.41 mg vs. 232.22 ± 12.77 mg,P < 0.001), and a significantly greater number of subjects in this group received lignocaine dose >8.2 mg/kg. Minor complications occurred in 6 and 9 subjects in nebulized lignocaine and placebo groups, respectively,P = 0.41. CONCLUSION: Administration of nebulized lignocaine in addition to pharyngeal lignocaine spray, during no-sedation bronchoscopy, increases the cumulative lignocaine dose without improved procedural comfort. Additional nebulized lignocaine during bronchoscopy is not recommended.

Modeling and control of flapping wing micro aerial vehicles.

Research in robots that emulate insect flight or micro aerial vehicles (MAV) has gained significant momentum in the past decade owing to the vast number of fields they could be employed in. In this paper, key modeling and control aspects of a flapping wing MAV in hover have been discussed. Models of varying complexity have been developed by previous researchers. Here, we examine the validity of key assumptions involved in some of these models in a closed-loop control setting. Every model has limitations and with proper design of feedback control these limitations can be overcome up to a certain degree. Three nonlinear models with increasing complexity have been developed. Model I includes only the rigid body dynamics while ignoring the wing dynamics while model II includes the rigid body dynamics along with the wing kinematics. Lastly, model III encompasses the complete rigid body and the rigid wing dynamics. To ensure these higher fidelity models can be rendered unnecessary with a suitably designed controller, a method is presented wherein the controller is designed for the simplest model and tested for its robustness on the more complex models. Linear quadratic regulator (LQR) is used as the main control system design methodology. A nonlinear parameter optimization algorithm is employed to design a family of LQR control systems for the MAV. Additionally, critical performance trade-offs are illuminated, and properties at both the plant output and input are examined. Lastly, we also provide specific rules of thumb for the control system design.

Guidelines for diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy in adults: Joint Indian Chest Society/National College of chest physicians (I)/Indian association for bronchology recommendations.

Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is commonly performed by respiratory physicians for diagnostic as well as therapeutic purposes. However, bronchoscopy practices vary widely across India and worldwide. The three major respiratory organizations of the country supported a national-level expert group that formulated a comprehensive guideline document for FB based on a detailed appraisal of available evidence. These guidelines are an attempt to provide the bronchoscopist with the most scientifically sound as well as practical approach of bronchoscopy. It involved framing appropriate questions, review and critical appraisal of the relevant literature and reaching a recommendation by the expert groups. The guidelines cover major areas in basic bronchoscopy including (but not limited to), indications for procedure, patient preparation, various sampling procedures, bronchoscopy in the ICU setting, equipment care, and training issues. The target audience is respiratory physicians working in India and well as other parts of the world. It is hoped that this document would serve as a complete reference guide for all pulmonary physicians performing or desiring to learn the technique of flexible bronchoscopy.

1% versus 2% lignocaine for airway anesthesia in endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration: A pilot, double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: No previous study has compared different concentrations of lignocaine for topical anesthesia during endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). In this pilot study, we compared 1% versus 2% lignocaine for topical airway anesthesia during EBUS-TBNA. METHODS: In this double-blind, randomized trial, subjects were randomized to receive either 1% or 2% lignocaine for "spray-as-you-go" administration. All received combined moderate intravenous sedation (midazolam and fentanyl). Ten percent pharyngeal lignocaine spray (two sprays) and nebulized lignocaine (2.5 ml of 4% solution) were administered to all subjects. Administration of additional lignocaine was allowed at operator's discretion. The primary endpoints were operator-rated overall procedural satisfaction and cough, each assessed on visual analog scale (VAS), while the secondary outcomes included patient-rated faces pain scale scores, cumulative lignocaine dose, number of subjects receiving lignocaine >8.2 mg/kg, doses of midazolam/fentanyl between groups, and adverse events during procedure. RESULTS: The mean (standard deviation [SD]) VAS scores for operator-rated procedure satisfaction were 64.2 (25.6) and 68.7 (23.7) in 1% and 2% group, respectively (P = 0.35). The median (interquartile range) VAS scores for operator-rated cough were 48.4 (23.9-69.9) in 1% group and 38.7 (18.6-69.5) in 2% group (P = 0.24). The mean [SD] cumulative lignocaine received in the 2% lignocaine group (248.6 [29.1] mg) was significantly greater than in 1% lignocaine group (178.5 [14.6] mg) (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: One percent lignocaine is equally efficacious as 2% lignocaine for topical anesthesia during EBUS-TBNA, at a significantly lower cumulative lignocaine dose.

1% Versus 2% Lignocaine for Airway Anesthesia in Flexible Bronchoscopy Without Lignocaine Nebulization (LIFE): A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: The ideal concentration of lignocaine for topical anesthesia in bronchoscopy remains investigational. In this randomized, double blind study, we compared 1% versus 2% lignocaine for topical anesthesia. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing bronchoscopy were randomized to receive either 1% or 2% lignocaine solution by spray-as-you-go technique. All received 10% lignocaine spray to the oropharynx along with nasal 2% lignocaine gel. Nebulized lignocaine was not administered. Primary outcomes were operator-rated overall procedural satisfaction, visual analogue scale (VAS)-rated and operator-rated cough, VAS. Secondary objectives were total lignocaine dose administered, patient-rated pain on faces pain scale, cumulative dose of lignocaine and procedural complications. RESULTS: A total of 500 patients (250 in each group) were randomized. Baseline characteristics were comparable. Operator-rated overall procedural satisfaction, VAS (72.05±20.16 and 72.20±21.96 in 1% and 2% group respectively; P=0.93) and operator-rated cough, VAS [1% group: 19.1 (12.6-34.6) and 2% group: 20.6 (12.5-36.9); P>0.05] were similar between the 2 groups. Cumulative dose of lignocaine used in 2% lignocaine group was greater (220.89±12.96 mg in 1% and 319.55±19.32 mg in 2% group; P<0.001). Patients receiving sedation were comparable between the 2 groups. (10% in 1% lignocaine group and 6% in 2% lignocaine group; P=0.13). Minor complications occurred in 2 patients in each group. CONCLUSION: One percent lignocaine in flexible bronchoscopy is as efficacious as 2% lignocaine when administered using the spray as you go technique without concurrent lignocaine nebulization, at a significantly lower total dose of lignocaine administered.