bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aneurysm of an aberrant right subclavian artery
Authors: Poon F. W. , Stewart I. S.
Published: July 2009

Although an aberrant right subclavian artery is the most common congenital anomaly of the aortic arch, with an incidence of one in 200 (Grainger & Allison, 1986), aneurysmal dilatation of this aberrant vessel is quite uncommon. In this report we describe one case which presented initially with a diagnosis of aneurysm of the thoracic aorta.

A 72-year-old man was admitted to another hospital for transurethral resection of the prostate. His medical history was unremarkable and he had no other symptoms apart from those relating to his urinary tract. A pre-operative chest radiograph (Fig. 1) showed a bilateral but asymmetrical superior mediastinal mass lying mainly to the left of the midline. The outline of the aortic knuckle was lost and a small curvilinear fleck of calcium was noted in the left lateral margin of the mass (arrowed, Fig. 1). A lateral radiograph of the chest confirmed that the mass did not lie in the posterior mediastinum and a diagnosis of aneurysm of the thoracic aorta was thought most likely. The patient was then referred to our hospital for further investigation, including angiography.
Changes of cerebral air embolism shown by computed tomography
Authors: Hirabuki Norio , Miura Takashi , Mitomo Masanori , Kozuka Takahiro , Kitatani Takashi , Terashima Takeshi , Okagawa Kazuhiro
Published: July 2009

A case of cerebral air embolism, probably caused by air passed through a central venous catheter, is presented. The first computed tomography (CT) scans performed 1 h after the onset of symptoms, showed multiple air densities in the brain. Follow-up CT showed brain swelling and low densities consistent with infarction. Although CT is evidently useful in the diagnosis of cerebral air embolism (Hwang et al, 1983; Kearns et al,1984; Voorhies & Fraser, 1984; Jensen & Lipper, 1986),there are very few reports on the evolution of findings on CT. We stress that the appearance of cerebral air embolism on CT changes with time and that a normal initial CT scan cannot exclude air embolism.

A 72-year-old man was admitted for treatment of gastric cancer. The patient underwent total gastrectomy in March 1985 and had a central venous line placed for parenteral nutrition. After surgery he suffered from a left-sided empyema and a drainage tube was inserted on March 28.
Recurrent groin varicose veins: an assessment by descending phlebography
Authors: Thomas M. Lea , Phillips G. W.
Published: July 2009

Descending phlebography was performed in 24 legs with groin recurrence following previous long saphenous vein surgery. Recurrence was demonstrated in 20 legs (83%) and the value of this technique in patient assessment is discussed.
The effects of radiotherapy on the immune system of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: De-en Hu , Xiang-song Ling , Jie Hu , Bai-ling Li , Xiao-feng Wang , Yi-gao Shen , Jia Ye
Published: July 2009

We report on 123 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma whose immune statuswas measured at the time of diagnosis, the day radiotherapy was completed, and then 2–3 months and 6–8 months after completion of radiotherapy. Immunological tests performed included the lymphocyte transformation test, the erythrocyte-rosette formation test (ERFT), the 29°C erythrocyte-rosette formation test (29°C ERFT), lymphocyte counts (lymphocytes/mm3and percentage of lymphocytes), levels of serum immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM), complement (C3) and circulating immune complexes (CIC), the antinuclear antibody test and a skin test using phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). There were statistically significant differences in all tests (except C3) between patients and normal controls. Marked differences were seen in the lymphocyte count, ERFT, and 29°C ERFT after radiotherapy (p<0.01). The diameters of induration of the PHA skin tests were less than those before radiotherapy (p<0.01). There were higher incidences of recurrence and metastases in the patients with high levels of CIC and low numbers of lymphocytes in the peripheral blood after radiotherapy. Cellular immunity remained at a low level 8 months after radiotherapy.
A technique for the removal of retained balloon bladder catheters
Authors: Walters N. A. , Kilbey J. , Rickards D.
Published: July 2009

Balloon catheters are widely used for bladder drainage in a variety of clinical settings. Occasionally the balloon resists all attempts at deflation by the usual methods or may be only partially deflated and cannot be removed. Numerous methods have been described for the removal of such catheters including overdistending the balloon until it bursts, traction on the catheter, injecting the balloon with chemicals (Pitt, 1970), blind suprapubic balloon puncture (Moskovich, 1984), suprapubic balloon puncture under X-ray control (Moisey & Williams, 1980), insertion of a ureteric catheter styletinto the balloon channel (Sood & Sahota, 1972) and puncture of the balloon via the suprapubic approach under transabdominal ultrasound control (Rees & Joseph, 1981; Higgins & Mace, 1984; Naunton Morgan et al, 1986).
Magnetic resonance imaging of the parotid glands using inversion–recovery sequences at 0.08 T
Authors: Smith Francis W. , Deans Heather E. , McLay Kenneth A. , Rayner Colin W.
Published: July 2009

One hundred and eight examinations on 103 patients with suspected disease of the salivary glands were studied using a 0.08 T resistive magnet and inversion–recovery pulse sequences. Sixty-eight patients who had a mass lesion within a salivary gland later had surgery, and specimens were obtained for histological diagnosis. The remaining 35 patients were diagnosed on clinical grounds. In all cases the clinical findings were compared with the appearances on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The use of inversion–recovery pulse sequences allowed accurate localization of all tumour masses and, because of the clarity with which blood vessels were displayed, the precise relationship of any parotid mass to the retromandibular vessels and hence the facial nerve was possible. Whilst MRI did not display any pathognomonic features to allow the differentiation of malignant cell types or the differentiation of invasive malignant tumours from chronic inflammatory disease, it was possible to differentiate parotitis from Mikulicz's disease and to diagnose cysts and pleomorphic adenomas by their appearances on MRI.
An unusual case of otorrhoea due to parotid salivary fistula
Authors: Janke P. G. , Rivron R. P.
Published: July 2009

Most salivary fistulae of the parotid gland open on to the skin surface and are a consequence of trauma to the main duct (Hemenway & Bergstrom, 1971) or to the gland itself (Joffe, 1967) or following surgical procedures. Despite the close proximity of the parotid gland to the external auditory meatus, post-surgical and traumatic fistulae into the external auditory meatus are extremely rare. Richards (1960) reported a case produced by an endaural incision for mastoid surgery. Even rarer is the formation of a spontaneous parotid salivary fistula into the external auditory meatus. A search of the English literature revealed only one previous report (Sharma & Dawkins, 1984) who postulated a patent foramen of Huschke and the repeated trauma of jaw movement on the parotid as the cause of the abnormal connection. However, investigation, including sialography, could not confirm this. We report a case of salivary fistula in which sialography was confirmatory, and both conventional and computed tomography (CT) of the external auditory meatus were helpful.

A 58-year-old woman presented with a 9-month history of recurrent discharge from the right ear. Examination revealed typical otitis externa with accumulated squamous debris and red, oedematous canal skin. The tympanic membrane was seen to be intact. The left ear was normal. The condition settled with topical antibiotic drops but over the next 2 years she was seen repeatedly for further episodes of this unilateral otitis externa which settled each time with the same treatment.
Magnetic resonance imaging in non-infective destructive spondyloarthropathy
Authors: Patel B. , Mistry C. D. , Kumar E. Nanda , Short C. D. , Jenkins J. P. R.
Published: July 2009

In recent years a destructive arthropathy of the spine chas been recognized in patients with chronic renal cfailure on haemodialysis (Kuntz et al, 1984; Deramond cet al, 1987; Kaplan et al, 1987) which radiographically may mimic infective spondylitis. Conclusive diagnosis may be made by biopsy of the affected area and should include culture, crystal analysis and staining for amyloid of the biopsied material. We describe a patient with chronic renal failure on maintenance haemodialysis for 6 years, who developed such a condition and in whom magnetic resonance imaging was utilized as a non-invasive technique to exclude infection.

A 64-year-old man with chronic renal failure of unknown aetiology, on maintenance haemodialysis for 6 years, presented with a 12-month history of progressive leg weakness. Three months before his admission he developed pain in his neck and shoulders and swelling of the left arm.

On examination he was clinically anaemic, normotensive, apyrexial and had an oedematous left arm due to axillary vein thrombosis. Examination of the peripheral nervous system revealed evidence of cervical cord compression with tetraparesis, hyper-reflexia, hypertonia and extensor plantar responses. Laboratory investigations showed a normocytic, normochromic anaemia (haemoglobin (Hb) 11.6 g/dl) and no biochemical evidence of secondary hyperparathyroidism (serum calcium 2.31 mmol/1 and serum phosphate 2.36 mmol/1). A parathyroid hormone assay performed 4 years previously was normal (2.0 mg/ml).
Sarcoidosis mimicking metastatic testicular tumour
Authors: Parr M. J. A. , Williams M. V.
Published: July 2009

The management of testicular tumours places great reliance on radiological investigations to determine the extent of disease. We report here two patients in whom mediastinal lymphadenopathy was shown at biopsy to be caused by sarcoidosis rather than metastatic tumour.

A 30-year-old male teacher presented in 1982 after finding a testicular mass and then developing backache and suprapubic pain. Levels of pre-operative tumour markers were slightly elevated with β human chorionic gonadotrophin (BHCG) 31 U/l (normal < 4 U/l) and α fetoprotein (AFP) 12 kU/1 (normal < 10 kU/1).
Malignant melanoma developing in an irradiation field
Authors: Inbar M. , Matzkin H. , Rozin R. R. , Chaitchik S. , Klauzner J. M.
Published: July 2009

Malignant melanoma has been associated with a variety of etiological factors of which prolonged and excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun seems to be the most important. Malignant melanoma has also been associated with physical factors such as trauma, chronic skin irritation, frost bite and thermal burns (Gellin & Epstein, 1975; Muhlemann et al, 1982; Goldberg et al, 1985).
Book reviews
Authors: Shaw Donald
Published: July 2009

For a long time the Year Book of Diagnostic Radiology has helped us to keep up to date with the literature and with the rapidly developing techniques of our trade. The yearly publications from the University of California in San Francisco have recently been challenging the position of the Year Book. I think it is now fair to say that the Year Book has been superseded in many ways by this annual West Coast Publication in its breadth and depth of coverage.
Magnetic resonance image synthesis from an interleaved saturation recovery/inversion recovery sequence
Authors: Redpath T. W. , Smith F. W. , Hutchison J. M. S.
Published: July 2009

An interleaved saturation recovery/inversion recovery (SR/IR) pulse sequence allows the sign of the IR signal to be retained even if images are formed from the magnitude of the two-dimensional complex Fourier transforms of the raw data. Synthesis of images by a linear combination of SR and signed IR pixel values has proved a valuable method of relaxation time (T  1) contrast manipulation without the need to re-image the slice. Linear combination has also allowed IR images with a wide range of time-to-inversion (TI) values to be synthesized from an SR/IR pair obtained with TI = 200 ms and time-to-recovery (TR) = 1000 ms, thus avoiding the need for computationally intensive calculations based on complicated relaxation equations.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the orbits using a binocular surface coil
Authors: Deans Heather E. , Redpath Thomas W. , Smith Francis W. , Parekh Shanti , Forrester John V.
Published: July 2009

Sixty subjects, including 12 normal volunteers, have been studied using the Aberdeen 0·08 T magnetic resonance imager. A wide range of pathological conditions, including both ocular and orbital disease, have been examined using a specialized binocular surface coil. The images produced using this coil are superior to those made with a head coil and have the advantage of demonstrating both eyes simultaneously. Each patient has been studied using a pulse sequence combining alternate saturation-recovery and inversion-recovery pulses. The resultant short time-to-inversion inversion-recovery and saturationrecovery images have been shown to be accurate in demonstrating the normal anatomy of the globe and orbit and for the demonstration of a wide range of disease states.
The renal rind sign: a new ultrasound indication of inflammatory disease in the abdomen
Authors: Belli A.-M. , Joseph A. E. A.
Published: July 2009

The width of the right anterior extrarenal tissue is increased on ultrasound examination in patients with abdominal inflammatory disease. Thickened perirenal fascia associated with acute pancreatitis has previously been reported on computed tomography. A case report has described increased echogenicity of the pararenal space on ultrasound in children with pancreatitis but increased width of the space between the liver and the renal capsule has not hitherto been described in association with inflammatory disease in the abdomen in adults. We have observed it in acute cholecystitis, acute pancreatitis, acute appendicitis, a perforated duodenal ulcer, a leaking anastomosis with a right subphrenic abscess following total gastrectomy and in a patient with septicaemia and liver abscesses. Normal values were obtained in 100 patients without detectable or known disease and were found to be between 1 and 6 mm (mean 2.5 mm) in men and 1 and 5 mm (mean 1.8 mm) in women. The patients with abdominal disease who demonstrated this sign had values ranging from 9–11 mm (mean 10 mm).
Kock pouch urinary diversion: follow-up by ultrasound
Authors: Kruyt René H. , Kums Jan J. M.
Published: July 2009

In the post-operative follow-up of 24 patients who received a continent Kock pouch for urinary diversion, several complications were encountered, including hydronephrosis, stone formation and valve dysfunction, resulting in reflux and/or urinary incontinence. After comparing findings on ultrasound with those obtained by Koch pouch cystography, intravenous urography, plain abdominal radiography, Kock pouch endoscopy and operation, we consider ultrasound to be an important technique in the follow-up, especially in non-symptomatic patients. All cases of hydronephrosis and pouch calculi were detected by ultrasound and no false positive findings were encountered in either group. A good correlation is demonstrated between nipple length, as measured by ultrasound, and valve dysfunction, clinically important only for the afferent nipple.
Soft-tissue sarcoma: neutrons versus photons for post-operative irradiation
Authors: Glaholm J. , Harmer C.
Published: July 2009

Between November 1980 and June 1981, 14 patients with soft-tissue sarcoma were entered into a prospective randomized trial comparing the efficacy of megavoltage photon irradiation with cyclotron-generated fast neutrons as postoperative adjuvant therapy. It became apparent that patients whose primary tumours had been treated with very wide excision, in particular by compartmental resection, suffered severe late tissue damage when subsequently irradiated with fast neutrons. It was therefore decided to terminate the trial after only 14 patients had been entered. Unacceptable late tissue damage may result from the therapeutic use of fast neutron irradiation when applied in these circumstances.
Metastatic adenocarcinoma of the paraspinal muscles
Authors: O'Keeffe D. , Gholkar A.
Published: July 2009

Metastatic carcinoma in skeletal muscle distant from the primary tumour is an uncommon occurrence, unlike local invasion of muscle from direct tumour spread (Willis, 1973). Autopsy studies have quoted an incidence of skeletal muscle metastases ranging from 0.8% (Willis, 1973) to 16% (Pearson, 1959). The first description of the appearances on computed tomography (CT) of a skeletal muscle metastasis was recorded in 1985 (Yoshy & Montana, 1985); subsequently a series of 12 cases of tumour metastatic to muscle in patients with previously documented malignant disease has been published (Shultz et al, 1986). We describe a patient in whom a single, large, skeletal muscle metastasis was the presenting symptom.

A 70-year-old man was referred to a local hospital for investigation of back pain. On examination, a large paraspinal mass was palpable, extending from the lower right ribs to the iliac crest. Radiographs of the lumbar spine and chest at that time were reported as normal. An intravenous urogram showed rotation and anterior displacement of the right kidney; ultrasound examination demonstrated a solid mass posterior to the right kidney. Barium enema and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were normal. On the basis of these investigations a clinical diagnosis of retroperitoneal sarcoma was made and the patient was referred for CT.

Computed tomography demonstrated a well defined softtissue mass involving the right paraspinal muscle group.
Pulsed Doppler in the diagnosis of small liver tumours
Authors: Yasuhara Kazuaki , Kimura Kunio , Ohto Masao , Matsutani Shoichi , Ebara Masaaki , Tsuchiya Yukihiro , Saisho Hiromitsu
Published: July 2009

Doppler ultrasound detection of the blood flow associated with liver tumours was studied in primary hepatocellular carcinoma as well as in metastatic liver cancer and haemangioma. Doppler signals were detected from 48 of 55 hepatocellular carcinomas (87.3%), seven of 25 metastatic liver cancers (28.0%) and four of 30 haemangiomas (13.3%). The waveforms of Doppler signals were divided into two types: the pulsatile wave, which was detected from hepatocellular carcinoma (in 35 of the 48 with Doppler signals) and metastatic liver cancer (in all seven with positive signals), and the continuous wave, which was seen from hepatocellular carcinoma (41 out of 48) and haemangioma (in all four with signals). In six patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent transcatheter arterial embolization, the pulsatile wave detected before therapy disappeared immediately thereafter and it is possible that this type of wave originates from tumour vessels. In the study of small, hypoechoic, mass lesions appearing in liver cirrhosis, such signals were also demonstrated, even in eight of 10 small hepatocellular carcinomas less than 2 cm in diameter, whilst they were not detected from nine regenerative nodules related to cirrhotic change. In conclusion, the Doppler ultrasound method may be a useful technique in detecting blood flow within liver tumours and may offer the possibility of a differential diagnosis of small tumours.
Book reviews
Authors: Russell J. G. B.
Published: July 2009

Few people can have published scientific papers for over 50 years, and this book celebrates Alice Stewart's achievement in doing this. It is essentially a collection of some of her papers from her early work on the effects of trinitrotoluene and carbon tetrachloride through to her important work with the Oxford Survey of Childhood Cancers and the Hanford workers, together with some of her colleague's papers.
Jugular venous aneurysm in children
Authors: Hughes P. L , Qureshi S. A. , Galloway R. W.
Published: July 2009

Congenital dilatation of jugular veins is unusual in children. Since the condition was first described (Harris, 1928) in a 5-month-old infant, only occasional case reports have appeared in the world literature (Schatz & Fine, 1962; Gilbert et al, 1972; Gordon et al, 1976; Mallik, 1977; Passariello et al, 1979; Chetrafilor, 1980; Davis, 1982; Stevens et al, 1982; Katro, 1983; Leung et al, 1983; Nekunda & Kucera, 1983; Blanco Rodriguez et al, 1984; Jasinski & Rubin, 1984). We present two cases of jugular venous aneurysm, one of the internal and the other of the external jugular vein, both of which were excised. The purpose of this report is to discuss the differential diagnosis, the methods of imaging and the possible aetiology.
Quality control of mammographic equipment: a 5-year follow-up
Authors: Karila K. T. K.
Published: July 2009

A quality–control project covering 56 pieces of mammographic equipment was carried out in Finland. The evaluation was based on the determination of contrast, film optical density, resolution, focus size, tube voltage, exposure time, half-value thickness, reproducibility and linearity of exposure, surface and exit dose, average whole–breast dose, and defects at each centre when employing routinely used techniques. Dose and image quality were assessed using three phantoms. The results are compared with those obtained 5 years earlier and by other authors. Although the situation has, in many ways, improved considerably over the last 5 years (for instance, the average whole-breast dose has fallen on average by 84%, 7.37→ 1.10 mGy),there is still room for further improvement, especially in the optimization of the developing processes.
A slice width and focal spot alignment camera for computed tomographic scanners
Authors: Mott D. J.
Published: July 2009

The most unequivocal method of assessing the slice collimation and alignment of the focal spot on a computed tomographic (CT) scanner is to use photographic film. If the X rays can be turned on for a short enough exposure, and if the gantry can be maintained in a static, pre-determined position then the exposure of a film at the axis of rotation of the scanner allows the slice widths to be checked. If the film is offset radially from the axis of rotation and two diametrically opposed exposures are given, any misalignment of the focal spot in the direction orthogonal to the scan plance can be measured and the required correction calculated as in Fig. 1.
Book reviews
Authors: Freeman A. H.
Published: July 2009

To quote the preface “The aim of this book is to present an orderly approach to the prudent use of imaging techniques in the investigation of patients with hepatobiliary disease”. It fulfills this aim in an admirable fashion. It also offers more in that it deals not only with diagnostic techniques but includes a second, smaller section on the non-surgical therapeutic procedures which are now available.
Book reviews
Authors: Martin D. F.
Published: July 2009

With increased emphasis placed nowadays on multiple-choice questions in the Part II examination for the Fellowship, it is inevitable that there should be a proliferation of MCQ compilations aimed at the FRCR candidate. As the authors point out in their introduction to this book, many of these provide practice in dealing with the MCQ but lack adequate discussion of the answers.
Book reviews
Authors: Pilling D. W.
Published: July 2009

This multi-author text has been produced following the introduction of one particular manufacturer's transvaginal ultrasound machine into their department and as such is very much a review of the capabilities of this particular machine. There is a short chapter on the physics of ultrasound with consideration of the particular features of the vaginal probe. There is a very good chapter dealing with the examination itself in considerable detail and giving helpful practical hints. The remaining chapters deal separately with each of the organs in the pelvis followed by the assessment of early pregnancy both normal and abnormal and finally chapters on ectopic pregnancy and a short chapter on the use of transvaginal sonography in infertility.
Book reviews
Authors: Ell P. J.
Published: July 2009

This book contains the full text of review papers given at the 3rd European Symposium on Radiopharmacy and Radiopharmaceuticals, organized by the Danish Society of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine under the auspices of the European Joint Committee on Radiopharmaceuticals of the European Nuclear Medicine Societies, held in Elsinore, Denmark, in May 1987.
Primary extranodal lymphoma in muscle
Authors: Scally John , Garrett Anne
Published: July 2009

Lymphomas can develop in any location where there is lymphomatous tissue, but extranodal presentation in the lower limb is unusual; involvement of skeletal muscle is also considered to be rare. Rosenberg et al (1961) reviewed 1269 cases of “lymphosarcoma” and none with muscle involvement was described. Significant involvement of skeletal muscle was noted in only 1.4% of 2147 cases of lymphoma reviewed in the Annual of Pathologic Autopsy Cases in Japan from 1976 to 1978 (Komatsuda et al, 1981). In a series of 97 patients who underwent computed tomography (CT) for lymphoma staging, in only five cases was significant muscle involvement noted (Pilepich & Carter, 1980).
Basic concepts of femoral neck anteversion: comparison of two definitions
Authors: Høiseth Arne , Reikerås Olav , Fønstelien Erik
Published: July 2009

Femoral neck anteversion is determined by the neck, shaft and knee axes. It is commonly assumed that the neck axis is a straight line connecting the centre of the femoral head, the centre of the femoral neck and the axis of the femoral shaft. However, the line through the centre of the femoral head and neck crosses anterior to the axis of the femoral shaft. A distinction has therefore to be made between two principal different definitions of anteversion, denoted ANTEV 1 and ANTEV 2 in this paper, depending on the precise definition of the neck axis. Previous studies have indicated substantial differences between these definitions. The present study, using precise measuring methods, shows that the definitions have a systematic but small spread of differences. The large individual variation previously found between the two definitions is therefore caused mainly by the measuring methods and to a lesser extent by real anatomical variations.
Book reviews
Authors: Nikjoo H.
Published: July 2009

This is the proceedings of the meeting of the Advisory Group on Nuclear and Atomic Data for Radiotherapy and Related Radiobiology held in Rijswijk, Netherlands, 1985.
Book reviews
Authors: Williams Michael
Published: July 2009

This book consists of the magnetic resonance images of 250 cases (249 when one realises that the same case is used as an example of retroperitoneal fibrosis on p. 282 and carcinoma of the prostate on p. 283!). Each set of images is accompanied by a short description under the headings Examination, Clinical Information, Technique, Findings, Impression, Confirmation, Discussion and Reference. The most serious criticism is that only a small minority of the cases illustrated have any confirmation at all.
Effects of inhibition of intercellular communication on repair of damage induced by ionizing radiation
Authors: Madhoo J. , Blekkenhorst G.
Published: July 2009

It has been suggested that intercellular contact enhances cellular repair after radiation damage (Durand, 1984). One form of intercellular communication is mediated by intercellular gap junctions (Gilula et al, 1972). These are specialized cell–cell contacts that allow the direct passage of small molecules from the cytoplasmic compartments of one cell to that of a neighbouring cell. Intercellular junctional communication can be inhibited to varying degrees with tumour-promoting phorbol esters, retinoids (Davidson et al, 1985a), organochlorine pesticides (Davidson et al, 1985b), and α-glycyrrhetinic acid (AGA) (Davidson et al, 1986). The question posed in the present study was whether the junctional inhibitor AGA could be used to modify repair of radiation damage.

All experiments were performed using murine B16 melanoma cells grown as monolayers in McCoy's 5A medium supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum. Cells were used in the plateau phase, i.e. grown to confluence. Since AGA binds to albumin, exposure of the confluent cells to irradiation or AGA was performed in serum-free medium. The AGA was added 30min before irradiation in all experiments. Cells were maintained in this medium until they were plated out for clonogenic assay.
Acute rhabdomyolysis: evaluation with magnetic resonance imaging compared with computed tomography and ultrasonography
Authors: Lamminen Antti E. , Hekali Pauli E. , Tiula Eero , Suramo Ilkka , Korhola Ossi A.
Published: July 2009

Fifteen patients with acute rhabdomyolysis were evaluated with low field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and the results compared with those obtained using computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography (US). With MR imaging, abnormal muscles with areas of increased signal intensity were seen in every patient, which probably reflects increased water content or increased mobility of water molecules caused by inflammatory reaction and oedema in the injured and necrotic muscles. Computed tomography without intravenous contrast medium demonstrated abnormal muscles in most patients examined with this modality. The CT findings consisted of areas of focal hypodensity in muscles. With US, abnormal muscles were seen in less than half of the patients studied. The normal structure of striated muscle was focally disturbed and areas of both decreased and increased echogenicity were found. Magnetic resonance imaging had a higher sensitivity in the detection of abnormal muscles than CT or US (100%, 62% and 42%, respectively). The findings of all these modalities are non-specific, but together with the clinical and laboratory data they confirm the diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis. The information gained from imaging studies is useful in the assessment of the extent and distribution of rhabdomyolysis. The precise identification of affected muscle compartments by MR imaging is valuable when surgical fasciotomy is considered for treatment; the procedure can then be appropriately directed to the compartments with clearly abnormal muscles.
The ICRU recommendations for reporting intracavitary therapy in gynaecology and the Manchester method of treating cancer of the cervix uteri
Authors: Wilkinson J. M. , Ramachandran T. P.
Published: July 2009

The recommendations of the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements for reporting intracavitary therapy have been considered with particular regard to the Manchester method of treating cancer of the cervix uteri. The total reference air kerma is calculated and tabulated as a function of prescription for the standard Manchester applicator arrangements. Furthermore, it is shown that the volume contained within a particular isodose surface may be determined, with very acceptable accuracy, from the total reference air kerma by the use of a simple empirical expression.
Tetrachlorodecaoxygen anion complex treatment after localized X irradiation of the rat colon
Authors: Breiter N. , Sassy T. , Trott K.-R.
Published: July 2009

Late radiation effects in the rat colon are assumed to be due primarily to mucosal atrophy caused by progressive damage to the vascular connective tissues of the mucosa and submucosa. The atrophic mucosa is particularly susceptible to infection, inflammation and mechanical friction exerted by the faeces (Trott et al, 1986). Experiments to control these secondary damaging factors by the application of cortisone, antibiotics and laxatives (Trott et al, 1986) resulted only in a short prolongation of the median survival time. More protection was obtained after dramatically reducing the volume of the faeces by feeding a residue-free synthetic diet, which was fully absorbable in the jejunum. However, this treatment had to be given continuously after irradiation.

Substances which stimulate tissue regeneration might be an attractive alternative to prevent progression of subclinical radiation injury to gross tissue failure. Since tetrachlorodecaoxygen anion complex (TCDO) has been described to have such properties (Hinz et al, 1984, 1986) we have investigated the effect of TCDO on the progression of chronic radiation injury after local irradiation of rat colon in a series of pilot experiments.
Stem-cell depletion and grid therapy
Authors: Maruyama Yosh , Yaes Robert J. , Urano Muneyasu , Patel Pushpa , Hernandez J. Carlos
Published: July 2009

The stem-cell depletion hypothesis postulates that there exists for each organ a limiting critical volume, which can be repopulated by a single surviving stem cell and for which damage can be repaired by repopulation (Yaes & Kalend, 1988; Yaes et al, 1988). When the critical volume is totally depleted of stem cells, irreversible damage occurs. Certain organs such as the spinal cord yield very interesting experimental results, where the frequency of transverse myelitis has varied with the minimal critical length of cord irradiated (Hopewell et al, 1987; van der Kogel, 1987; Hopewell & van der Kogel, 1988). The critical length of spinal cord has been determined to be approximately 2–5 mm in WAG/Rij rats and <4mm in Sprague-Dawley rats. Both sets of data indicated a critical length of spinal cord that must be irradiated to cause myelitis and that lies between 2 and 5 mm for the rat. Similar predictions have been made using a model based on functional subunits (Withers & Taylor, 1988; Withers et al, 1988).
Book reviews
Authors: Adams J. E.
Published: July 2009

This compact book reviews the role of computed tomography in trauma, and is derived principally from the experience of authors from Texas. The two short opening chapters provide some useful background clinical information on the causes and consequences of trauma and a brief outline of the clinical evaluation of the traumatized patient. Subsequently the book is divided into sections covering the role of CT, and abnormalities found, in patients with chest, abdominal, pelvic, spinal and facial trauma.
Book reviews
Authors: Freer C. E. L.
Published: July 2009

The first edition, A Practical Introduction to Cranial CT, by A. R. Valentine, P. Pullicino and E. Bannan, was a popular text and deservedly so, with its clear account of the basics and differential diagnosis all fitted into a handy, pocket-sized book. It was with great interest that I approached the new edition, now by J. M. Stevens, A. R. Valentine and B. E. Kendall. The authors have three challenges: (1) a comparison with the first edition; (2) choice of an introductory text, which is particularly difficult when the target readership is broadly based; and (3) where to place MRI when neuro-imaging is still evolving.
Book reviews
Authors: Murthy L. N. S.
Published: July 2009

Recently there have been many advances in the interventional field, particularly in uroradiology. With the advent of new methods of dealing with urinary calculi, strictures and tumours, new techniques are being evolved and refined and this atlas is one of several publications about these techniques. The authors say that endourology, in the broadest sense, is the discipline that involves closed intervention to any part of the urinary tract for vusualization and manipulation.
First interim progress report on the second British Institute of Radiology Fractionation study: Short versus long overall treatment times for radiotherapy of carcinoma of the laryngo-pharynx
Authors: Wiernik G. , Alcock C. J. , Bates T. D. , Berry R. J. , Brindle J. M. , Dalby J. E. , Fowler J. F. , Gajek W. R. , Goodman S. , Haybittle J. L. , Henk J. M. , Hopewell J. W. , Howard N. , Lindup R. , Phillips D. L. , Pointon R. S. , Rezvani M. , Tobias J. S.
Published: July 2009

Preliminary data from a second British Institute of Radiology Fractionation Trial comparing short (≤4 weeks) and long (>4 weeks) overall treatment times are reported. The intake of patients ran from January, 1975 to December, 1985 when 611 patients with carcinoma of the laryngo-pharynx were registered in this prospective, randomized, multicentre clinical trial. No significant differences have, so far, been demonstrated between the two arms of the trial with respect to observed survival rates, tumour-free or laryngectomy-free rates. Further long-term follow-up is continuing.
Book reviews
Authors: Jeans W. D.
Published: July 2009

Neuroradiology is a discipline in which the ground rules have changed more radically and in a shorter time than in almost any other single area in radiology. In 1973 relatively small numbers of patients were being investigated by angiography and air encephalography, and the interpretation of the images required considerable skill, clinical neurological expertise and more than a little art.
Orbital intraconal haematic cysts in young people: computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Travis R. C. , Murray P. I. , Moseley I. F. , Wright J. E.
Published: July 2009

Eight cases of focal non-traumatic haemorrhage into the intraconal retrobulbar space in children or young adults have been examined by computed tomography. The lesion is seen as a smoothly rounded, localized mass, which does not extend to fill the intraconal space. Magnetic resonance imaging in two cases did not reveal the expected high signal on T1-weighted images, but in most patients the combination of clinical and radiological features is sufficiently indicative of the diagnosis to allow conservative management.
Central venous catheter placement for intravenous digital subtraction angiography: an assessment of technical problems and success rate
Authors: Barber C. J.
Published: July 2009

Scant attention has been paid to the technical aspects of central venous catheter placement in intravenous digital subtraction angiography (IV-DSA). In a prospective study of 200 unselected patients referred for IV-DSA, technical problems and success rates were recorded. Central venous access via an arm vein was achieved in 95% of patients. In 83% of cases, only one venous puncture was required. The commonest single cause for failure was being unable to find, puncture or introduce a guidewire into a suitable calibre vein at the cubital fossa in the first instance. Once entered with a guidewire, the median cubital/basilic route led to successful catheter passage to the superior vena cava (SVC) on 93% of occasions. The equivalent figure for the cephalic route was 80%. Only two out of 129 attempts at which the cephalic vein was entered failed as a result of being unable to negotiate the cephalic/axillary junction. Venous spasm and branch points in the arm were the main problems when using the cephalic vein and these together were responsible for the differences in success rate between the cephalic and basilic routes. The results indicate that in the clear majority of patients referred for IV-DSA, central venous catheter placement is straightforward. The median cubital/basilic route is preferred but even if the cephalic route has to be used, it should still provide access to the SVC in more than three-quarters of cases. Manoeuvres used to overcome access difficulties are discussed and illustrated.
The role of computed tomography and coronal plane tomography in radiotherapy for laryngeal cancers
Authors: Dawes P. J. D. K. , Patrick D. , Hall K.
Published: July 2009

The results of a study undertaken prospectively in 1983 and 1984 to assess the value of computed tomography (CT) and conventional tomography in the planning of radiotherapy for laryngeal cancer are presented. Of 32 cases treated in 1983, 23 had both CT scans and coronal plane tomography prior to radiotherapy. At the end of 1983 these radiographs were reviewed and an assessment made of their value in treatment planning. As a result of this review it was decided that cancers of the larynx confined to the vocal cords should routinely have conventional coronal plane tomograms rather than CT scans. All other cases were to have CT scans and not tomograms. The results of following this policy in 1984 confirm that it is effective. There was no detriment to patients with early vocal cord cancers in performing coronal plane tomograms rather than CT scans. The survival at 24 months of both cohorts was 93%. In the more invasive cancers of the larynx, greater information about the extent of the disease was obtained using CT scans, and improved treatment plans resulted. When compared with a historical group, there appears to be an advantage for local control, 27.3% of the study group suffering local recurrence as opposed to 53.6% of the historical group.
Book reviews
Authors: Townsend K. M. S.
Published: July 2009

These three volumes assemble tutorials, papers and abstracts of posters and oral contributions from the 9th European Congress on Electron Microscopy held in York in September 1988, a total of over 600 selected papers. As the editors say, “the submitted papers reflect the diverse range of applications of electron microscopy in the late 1980s and also the number of complementary techniques which have developed alongside the established SEM and TEM approaches”.
Book reviews
Authors: Lambert G. D.
Published: July 2009

This short guide was produced jointly by the Institute of Radiation Hygiene, Federal Republic of Germany and the World Health Organization, following a workshop held in December 1984. No doubt there is good reason for the 3 years or so delay in publishing but a concern for prospective purchasers must be whether the contents remain topical. But for a few minor exceptions, this does not seem to be a problem. For example, an effort has been made to bring up to date the reference list although the reference for the latest IAEA Code of Practice is not correct. Other minor criticisms, perhaps related to the age of the original text, are that no mention is made of the possibilities of on-line digital imaging during therapy for quality control.
Book reviews
Authors: Hartnell G. G.
Published: July 2009

In this rather slim book, Dr Redel aims to provide an introduction to the rapidly developing field of colour bloodflow imaging of the heart. The book is divided into three sections, starting with an introduction to the physical principles of colour blood-flow imaging and the artefacts that can occur. This is followed by a section on normal appearances and concludes with a section on pathological appearances. The initial description of the principles of blood-flow imaging and the production of artefacts is the weakest part of the book. In his introduction the author states this section has been kept short as relatively little information is available to give a comprehensible introduction to the reader who is not already familiar with the technique. This is not true.
Ultrasound demonstration of vocal cord movements
Authors: Miles K. A.
Published: July 2009

Examination of the vocal cords is most commonly performed by indirect laryngoscopy but this may not readily be tolerated in some patients or may not be possible immediately in certain hospitals where an ear, nose and throat (ENT) opinion is not readily available. It has been observed by the author during ultrasound examination of the thyroid that the vocal cords and their movement can be demonstrated using standard ultrasound equipment.

When examining the vocal cords, it is important demonstrate abduction of the cords as well as adduction. This is because Semon's law states that a partial lesion of the recurrent laryngeal nerve affects abduction before adduction. Abduction of the cords should occur on deep inspiration.
Alimentary tract lesions in Cowden's disease
Authors: Taylor Andrew J. , Dodds Wylie J. , Stewart Edward T.
Published: July 2009

Cowden's disease was first recognized by its striking dermatological manifestations and subsequently by the increased incidence of neoplastic involvement of the thyroid and breast. Two cases of Cowden's disease with gastrointestinal polyps are presented to illustrate the alimentaiy tract involvement in this syndrome, gastrointestinal tract involvement with polyposis being seen in at least 50% of cases. As opposed to the more serious potential of neoplasia in the thyroid and breast, involvement of the alimentary tract has negligible clinical impact to the patient.
Book reviews
Authors: Bonnett D. E.
Published: July 2009

In view of the renewed interest in the use of protons for radiotherapy and the development of hospital-based accelerators for both the production of protons and fast neutrons, this book is to be welcomed. The subjects covered include radiation measurements at accelerator facilities, radiation shielding, a description of some typical installations and the impact on the environment of the use of these machines. It is obvious that the authors have drawn widely on their own considerable experience of the problems of radiation shielding and measurements at proton accelerators and have produced an extremely detailed review of their subject.
Surface heating of diagnostic ultrasound transducers
Authors: Duck F. A. , Starritt H. C. , ter Haar G. R. , Lunt M. J.
Published: July 2009

Surface temperatures of a variety of transducers used with common commercial ultrasonic diagnostic equipment have been measured. Transducers operating in imaging mode, in both continuous and pulsed Doppler modes, and in mixed modes were investigated. A total of 30 transducers and scan-heads used with equipment from 10 manufacturers were examined, including a range of array types, mechanical sectors and continuous-wave Doppler transducers. Measurements were made using an infrared radiometer, or a thermocouple probe, with the transducers operating in air. Surface temperatures of 13 transducers operating in imaging mode were found to be in the range 0.0–13.1°C above ambient after 5 min operation. Some transducers operating in pulsed Doppler mode reached considerably higher temperatures. The most extreme example increased the surface temperature by 36.5°C after 1 min and reached a steady-state temperature of almost 80°C. Transducers operating at these temperatures cannot be retained on the skin of a conscious subject without pain, and will cause skin burns within a brief period of time. A linear relationship has been demonstrated between temperature increase and spatial-average acoustic intensity. The rate of increase in air was found to be about 10 times greater for pulsed arrays than for continuous-wave Doppler transducers.
Ultrasonographic appearances of parathyroid carcinoma
Authors: Daly B. D. , Coffey S. L. , Behan M.
Published: July 2009

Real-time ultrasonography of the neck is currently recommended as an initial imaging technique in the investigation of hyperparathyroidism (Butch et al, 1985). Pathological parathyroid glands in patients with hyperparathyroidism may be detected with an overall accuracy of 93% (Graif etal, 1987). Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare tumour, which accounts for 1–4% of all cases of primary hyperparathyroidism (Schantz & Castleman, 1973; van Heerden et al, 1979). Although the sonographic features of carcinoma of the parathyroid have been reported recently (Kinoshita et al, 1985; Edmunson et al, 1986), the conclusions have been conflicting. We describe the sonographic appearances of parathyroid carcinoma in two patients with evidence of invasion of surrounding structures, and discuss the brief literature on the use of ultrasound for the pre-operative diagnosis of this rare tumour. Scans were performed with a real-time electronically focused, linear array probe with a water-bath.

A 45-year-old woman was admitted for investigation of a lump on the left side of her neck. She had no symptoms of hyperparathyroidism. A small nodule was palpable in the left lobe of the thyroid gland. Physical examination was otherwise normal. Routine biochemistry showed an elevated serum calcium of 3.75 mmol/litre (normal range 2.20–2.63 mmol/litre). Ultrasound of the neck demonstrated an irregular 3 cm × 2 cm × 2 cm solid mass in the posterior aspect of the left lobe of the thyroid, extending to the common carotid artery and to the pre-vertebral muscles, with which there was no interface (Fig. 1).