bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of high‐throughput genotoxicity assay screening using γH2AX in‐cell western assay on HepG2 cells
Authors: Khoury Laure , Zalko Daniel , Audebert Marc
Published: October 2013

In vitro genotoxicity tests used in regulatory toxicology studies are sensitive, but the occurrence of irrelevant positive results is high compared with carcinogenicity studies in rodents. Current in vitro genotoxicity tests are also often limited by relatively low throughput. The aim of this study was to validate an in vitro genotoxic assay in a 96‐well plate format that allows the simultaneous examination of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. The test is based on the quantification of the phosphorylation of the histone H2AX (γH2AX), which reflects a global genotoxic insult, using the In‐Cell Western technique. The assay was evaluated on HepG2 cells by testing a list of 61 compounds recommended by the European Center for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM), whose genotoxic potential has already been characterized. The γH2AX assay on HepG2 cell line was highly sensitive: 75% of the genotoxic compounds gave a positive result, and specific: 90–100% of nongenotoxic compounds gave negative results. Compared with the micronucleus genotoxicity assay using the same cell line and test compounds, the γH2AX assay was more sensitive and specific. In sum, the high‐throughput γH2AX assay described here can accurately detect simultaneously the genotoxic and the cytotoxic potential of compounds with different modes of mutagenic action, notably those who required metabolic activation. The use of this assay in the early discovery phase of drug development may prove to be a valuable way to assess the genotoxic potential of xenobiotics. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 54:737–746, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gene therapy on the move
Authors: Kaufmann Kerstin B. , Büning Hildegard , Galy Anne , Schambach Axel , Grez Manuel
Published: October 2013

The first gene therapy clinical trials were initiated more than two decades ago. In the early days, gene therapy shared the fate of many experimental medicine approaches and was impeded by the occurrence of severe side effects in a few treated patients. The understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms leading to treatment‐ and/or vector‐associated setbacks has resulted in the development of highly sophisticated gene transfer tools with improved safety and therapeutic efficacy. Employing these advanced tools, a series of Phase I/II trials were started in the past few years with excellent clinical results and no side effects reported so far. Moreover, highly efficient gene targeting strategies and site‐directed gene editing technologies have been developed and applied clinically. With more than 1900 clinical trials to date, gene therapy has moved from a vision to clinical reality. This review focuses on the application of gene therapy for the correction of inherited diseases, the limitations and drawbacks encountered in some of the early clinical trials and the revival of gene therapy as a powerful treatment option for the correction of monogenic disorders.
Optimization and Cost‐Oriented Comparison of Ammonia‐ and Propane‐Compression Refrigeration for the Recovery of Natural Gas Liquids
Authors: Chebbi Rachid , Qasim Muhammad , Darwish Naif A. , Ashraf Muhammad Tahir
Published: October 2013

Optimization and a cost‐oriented analysis, including the capital and energy‐of‐compression costs, were performed to compare propane‐ and ammonia‐refrigeration economizer cycles with and without presaturators. The simulation and optimization to minimize the cost were performed by using the HYSYS simulator and the Peng–Robinson equation of state was used for the thermodynamic model. Different chiller temperatures and duties were considered. The simulation and optimization results show the limitations of simplified formulas in determining properly the optimum intermediate compression pressure in refrigeration economizer cycles. The results also show that having a presaturator lowers the cost of ammonia refrigeration cycles and enhances costs in propane loops. Among all, ammonia cycles with presaturators were found to offer the lowest cost. The exergy and economic analyses show quite similar distributions of the lost work and cost in the different components of the refrigeration loops. Ammonia refrigeration cycles with presaturators offer the lowest lost work and the highest coefficient of performance. However, the chiller temperatures are limited to approximately −33.3 °C (−28 °F) in the case of ammonia cycles whereas they can be as low as −41.7 °C (−43 °F) in propane loops.
Chemometric application for thermal behavior of blends of bamboo with solid fossil fuel
Authors: Khare Puja , Sarmah Mridusmita , Baruah BP
Published: October 2013

In the present investigation, blends of two varieties of bamboo biomass with low‐rank high‐sulfur coal were prepared in different proportions. To assess their suitability as a fuel, pyrolysis and combustion experiments were carried out by using thermo‐gravimetric analyzer (TGA), and various reactivity parameters were obtained from TGA data. Chemometric analysis, correlation, and principal component analyses (PCA) were used to correlate the physioco‐chemical with fuel properties of blends. Most of the fuel properties of these blends depend upon the proportion of parent material in blends. Activation energies of blends during pyrolysis were found within the range as reported for other biomass and coal blends. However, activation energies of blends during combustion are lower than those reported for other biomass and coal blends. Chemometric analysis shows that blends with coal to bamboo ratio 50:50 are more suitable for pyrolysis and combustion purposes with lower sulfur emissions. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 315–321, 2014
Potential of locally available products for use as binders in producing fecal compost pellets in ghana
Authors: Nikiema J. , Cofie O. , Asante‐Bekoe B. , Otoo M. , Adamtey N.
Published: October 2013

Market studies in Ghana have revealed a potential for composted or cocomposted fecal matter as nutrient source inputs for agricultural production. To increase the marketability of such products, high nutrient value and easier handling/transporting options are among the significant factors which drive demand. Pelletization is seen as a potentially interesting option to address these challenges. To preserve form stability of the pellet products, the addition of a binding material during the pelletization process is crucial. In Ghana, water, beeswax, clay, and cassava starch have been identified as locally available binding materials. A comparative assessment of these materials as a premier binder suitable for pelletization was performed based on predefined criteria. Quantitative criteria considered included the total amounts available, the seasonal variation during the year and cost. Qualitative criteria such as handling and storage conditions, ease of use during pelletization, and the binding ability were also evaluated. Based on this assessment, clay and cassava‐based starch were selected as the most promising binding agents. Currently, clay is abundant in Ghana and this may suggest a guarantee for consistent and stable supply over coming years. However, from the perspective of cassava‐based starch, this situation depicts limited production of starch and competition on the local markets. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 504–511, 2014
Refuge areas and vertical evacuation of multistorey buildings: the end users' perspectives
Authors: McConnell Nigel C. , Boyce Karen E.
Published: October 2013

Refuge areas have been utilized for some time in multistorey buildings as an integral part of evacuation strategies for those with mobility impairments. Nevertheless, there has been little research on the level of understanding of what a refuge is, nor on the views or concerns of users in the event of an emergency. This paper reports on a study to determine the knowledge and concerns that people with reduced mobility have regarding refuges, and their willingness to use them. Results indicated that almost half of the sample who ‘could not’ or ‘would find it difficult’ to descend one storey had little or no knowledge of a refuge. Having been made aware of what a refuge was and how it might be used, over three‐quarters of respondents said they would be prepared to use it. Nevertheless, 60% of respondents felt that they would not be comfortable remaining in a refuge for more than 10 min without assistance. Major concerns were ‘being forgotten’, ‘lack of information/ communication on the waiting time prior to assistance arriving’, and ‘being left alone’. This paper also identifies how confidence to remain in a refuge may be increased and explores awareness and feelings regarding vertical evacuation options. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detailed surveys of the existing condition of the Bärenwerk pressure tunnel for plant renewal / Detaillierte Bestandserhebung für den Druckstollen Bärenwerk zur Anlagenerneuerung
Authors: Lumetzberger Martin , Kitzler Christian
Published: October 2013

The “KW Bärenwerk” power station project is currently being implemented by the Salzburg AG. This article reports in detail how extensive surveys of the existing condition formed the basis for innovative decisions making by the company. The investigations carried out above and below ground in the period 2009–2010 were the basis for an objective consideration of the decision whether to repair the existing tunnel system or construct a new tunnel.

First the power station and its current facilities are described, with particular emphasis on the headrace and headrace tunnel. The investigations and analyses are also described in detail, and how the knowledge gained was used in the design process. A possible decision‐making process is described, with a comparison of the most important features in order to differentiate between repair and new construction. The report ends with the state of the works that are currently underway.

In diesem Beitrag wird an einem derzeit in Realisierung befindlichem Kraftwerksprojekt “KW Bärenwerk” der Salzburg AG ausführlich dargelegt, wie eine umfassende Bestandserhebung die Grundlage zu einer richtungsweisenden Unternehmensentscheidungen bilden kann. Die unter‐ sowie obertägig im Zeitraum von 2009 und 2010 durchgeführten Untersuchungen waren die Basis für eine objektive Betrachtungsweise der beiden möglichen Entscheidungswege einer Sanierung des bestehenden Stollensystems oder eines Stollenneubaus.

Einleitend werden das Kraftwerk mit seinen Anlagenteilen und die Ist‐Situation erläutert, wobei speziell auf den Triebwasserweg bzw. den Triebwasserstollen eingegangen wird. Weiter werden die Untersuchungen und Analysen detailliert beschrieben und die daraus gewonnen Erkenntnisse in die Planung übertragen. Es wird ein möglicher Weg des Entscheidungsprozesses gezeigt und dazu anhand einer Gegenüberstellung der wesentlichsten Entscheidungskriterien die wichtigsten Unterscheidungsmerkmale der Sanierung bzw. des Neubaus des Druckstollens dargelegt. Der Bericht schließt mit dem Stand der tatsächlich durchgeführten Arbeiten.
Deformation measurement and long‐term behaviour of passively prestressed pressure tunnels through the example of the Niagara Tunnel Facility Project / Verformungsmessung und Langzeitverhalten von passiv vorgespannten Druckstollen am Beispiel des Niagara Tunnel Facility Projekt
Authors: Krenn Harald , Roner Manfred , Bauert Michael , Wannenmacher Helmut
Published: October 2013

The recently completed Niagara Tunnel Facility Project in the province of Ontario in Canada is an extension of the Sir Adam Beck hydropower station originally built in the 19th century. The project includes the construction of a diversion tunnel to supply the existing hydropower station with an additional 500 m3 of water per second. The long‐term stability of the unreinforced concrete lining is assured by a passive prestressed concrete lining according to the principles of Seeber. The operational water pressures reach 13 bar at the deepest point of the tunnel. In order to be able to monitor the slight deformations of the lining in the course of the prestressing process, an innovatively thought‐out method of surveying had to be developed. The results of the deformation and long‐term monitoring are presented.

Das kürzlich fertiggestellte Niagara Tunnel Facility Projekt in der Provinz Ontario in Kanada ist eine Erweiterung des im 19. Jahrhundert erbauten Sir Adam Beck Wasserkraftwerks. Das Projekt umfasst den Bau eines Umleitungsstollens, der das bestehende Wasserkraftwerk mit zusätzlichen 500 m3 Wasser pro Sekunde speist. Für die langfristige Stabilität der unbewehrten Betonschale wird die Schale nach dem Prinzip der passiven Vorspannung nach Seeber vorgespannt. Die betrieblichen Wasserdrücke erreichen am tiefsten Punkt des Tunnels rund 13 bar. Um die geringen Verformungen der Schale im Zuge des Vorspannungsprozesses messtechnisch überwachen zu können, musste eine innovative Vermessungsmethode entwickelt werden. Ergebnisse der Verformungs‐ und der Langzeitmessung werden vorgestellt.
Marxloh, Duisburg
Authors: Treude Janina
Published: October 2013

Media stereotypes and views from the inside: Ethnologist Anna Caroline Cöster is studying the social reality of a disadvantaged multi‐ethnic district.
Changes in electrical resistivity track changes in tectonic plate coupling
Authors: Heise Wiebke , Caldwell T. Grant , Bertrand Edward A. , Hill Graham J. , Bennie Stewart L. , Ogawa Yasuo
Published: October 2013

Interplate coupling on the Hikurangi subduction margin along the east coast of New Zealand's North Island changes north to south from almost uncoupled to locked. Clay‐rich sediments and aqueous fluids at the subduction interface have been invoked as key factors in the frictional processes that control interplate coupling. Here we use magnetotelluric data to show that the subduction interface in the weakly coupled region is electrically conductive but is resistive in the locked region. These results indicate the presence of a layer of fluid‐ and clay‐rich sediments in the weakly coupled region and support the idea that the presence of fluid and hydrated clays at the interface is a major factor controlling plate coupling.
Posteruption chemical evolution of a volcanic caldera lake: Karymsky Lake, Kamchatka
Authors: Taran Yuri , Inguaggiato Salvatore , Cardellini Carlo , Karpov Gennady
Published: October 2013

The 1996 short‐lived subaqueous eruption at the Karymsky caldera lake suddenly changed the composition of the lake water. The lake, with a surface area of ~10 km2 and a volume of ~0.5 km3, became acidic, increased its salinity to ~1000 mg/kg, and became dominated by SO42− and Ca2+. Since the eruption, the lake chemistry has evolved in a predictable manner described by simple box model. As a result of dilution by incoming SO4‐Ca‐Mg‐poor water, SO4, Ca, and Mg concentrations follow a simple exponential decrease with a characteristic time close to the residence time of the lake. Na, K, and Cl decrease relatively significantly slower, indicating a continuing input of these constituents into the lake that was initiated during the eruption. Thus, the dynamics of two groups of lake water solutes can be predicted by a simple box model for water and solute mass balance.
Chemoselectivity in the Reaction of 2‐Diazo‐3‐oxo‐3‐phenylpropanal with Aldehydes and Ketones
Authors: Zhang Jiantao , Xu Jiaxi
Published: October 2013

The chemoselectivity in the reaction of 2‐diazo‐3‐oxo‐3‐phenylpropanal (1) with aldehydes and ketones in the presence of Et3N was investigated. The results indicate that 1 reacts with aromatic aldehydes with weak electron‐donating substituents and cyclic ketones under formation of 6‐phenyl‐4H‐1,3‐dioxin‐4‐one derivatives. However, it reacts with aromatic aldehydes with electron‐withdrawing substituents to yield 1,3‐diaryl‐3‐hydroxypropan‐1‐ones, accompanied by chalcone derivatives in some cases. It did not react with linear ketones, aliphatic aldehydes, and aromatic aldehydes with strong electron‐donating substituents. A mechanism for the formation of 1,3‐diaryl‐3‐hydroxypropan‐1‐ones and chalcone derivatives is proposed. We also tried to react 1 with other unsaturated compounds, including various olefins and nitriles, and cumulated unsaturated compounds, such as N,N′‐dialkylcarbodiimines, phenyl isocyanate, isothiocyanate, and CS2. Only with N,N′‐dialkylcarbodiimines, the expected cycloaddition took place.
Clerodendrumic Acid, a New Triterpenoid from Clerodendrum glabrum (Verbenaceae), and Antimicrobial Activities of Fractions and Constituents
Authors: Masevhe Ndivhaleni A. , Awouafack Maurice D. , Ahmed Aroke S. , McGaw Lyndy J. , Eloff Jacobus N.
Published: October 2013

One new triterpenoid, (3β,11α,19β)‐3‐(butanoyloxy)‐11‐hydroxytaraxast‐20(30)‐ene‐23,28‐dioic acid (clerodendrumic acid; 1) was isolated from the hexane extract of the leaves of Clerodendrum glabrum var. glabrum along with heptadecanoic acid (2). The structure of the new compound was elucidated by interpretation of its NMR (1D and 2D), MS, and IR data. Combined fractions C and D from the column chromatography of the hexane extract exhibited significant antifungal activities (average MIC of 0.10 mg/ml) against Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans. C. albicans was relatively resistant to clerodendrumic acid (1; MIC 125 μg/ml) and was resistant to heptadecanoic acid (2; MIC 188 μg/ml). Both compounds had low antibacterial activities against two Gram‐positive and two Gram‐negative bacteria with average MIC values of 157 and 172 μg/ml, respectively. Compounds 1 and 2 were relatively nontoxic against monkey kidney Vero cells in vitro with IC50 values of 202.6 and 108.4 μg/ml, respectively.
Identification of Six New Minor Diarylheptanoids from the Seeds of Alpinia katsumadai
Authors: Nam Joo‐Won , Seo Eun‐Kyoung
Published: October 2013

Phytochemical investigation of the seeds of Alpinia katsumadai (Zingiberaceae) led to the isolation and identification of six new diarylheptanoid derivatives, katsumains D–G (1–4), 3‐(acetyloxy)‐alpinikatin (5), and 5‐(acetyloxy)alpinikatin (6). The structures of 1–6 were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR experiments.
Highly Constrained Linear Oligopeptides Containing Heterocyclic α‐Amino Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Stoykova Svetlana A. , Linden Anthony , Heimgartner Heinz
Published: October 2013

Two spiroheterocyclic 2H‐azirin‐3‐amines, 1f and 1g, were shown to be useful synthons for the dipeptides N‐(4‐aminotetrahydro‐2H‐pyran‐4‐yl)prolinate (Thp‐Pro) and the corresponding thiopyran derivative, Tht‐Pro, respectively. By coupling of 4‐bromobenzoic acid with 1f or 1g and saponification, followed by repeating the coupling and saponification steps, oligopeptides of type 4‐BrBz‐(Thp‐Pro)n‐OMe and 4‐BrBz‐(Tht‐Pro)n‐OMe were prepared, and their conformations were evaluated in solution by NMR techniques and in the crystalline state by X‐ray crystallography. All of these sterically highly congested oligopeptides adopt fairly rigid helical conformations. It is interesting to note that the hexapeptide with Thp forms a 310‐helix, whereas the Tht analog has a β‐bend ribbon spiral confirmation.
Three‐dimensional reconstructed MRI of an acrylic meniscal cartilage phantom: The effect of acquisition slice thickness upon accuracy of volume measurement
Authors: Kurmis Andrew P. , Slavotinek John P. , Reynolds Karen J.
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of slice thickness upon the accuracy of volume measurement taken from three‐dimensional reconstructed magnetic resonance (MR) images.

A pair of scaled meniscal cartilage phantoms (medial and lateral) were created from a low viscosity acrylic casting resin. The two phantoms were imaged simultaneously using a modified proton density turbo spin‐echo (PD TSE) MR sequence at slice thicknesses of 4.0, 3.0, 2.0, 1.5 and 1.0mm. At each slice thickness, a three‐dimensional reconstructed image of each phantom was created, using a commercially available software package. Using the software's inbuilt analysis functions, a volume measurement was then made of each image.

The software generated volume measures were compared to a “gold standard” mass/density measure of the phantoms. Percentage measurement error (PME) measures were calculated, with mean values ranging from 19.42% (4.0 mm slice thickness) to 1.05% (1.0 mm). Paired t testing suggested no statistically significant difference (P = 0.15) between the means of the PME values for the two phantoms suggesting an acceptable degree of measurement consistency.

In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that the three‐dimensional reconstructed technique can be used to achieve a highly accurate volume measurement (PME < 5%) of irregular (non‐geometric) objects or image components (such as human meniscal cartilages) without the need to employ sub‐millimetre acquisitions. Such slice thicknesses are within the capabilities of most commercial MR scanners, making the results reported here relevant to the majority of clinical imaging sites.
Radiation Induced Diarrhoea — Literature Review
Authors: Hopkins Melissa
Published: October 2013

Radiation‐induced diarrhoea is an acute side effect of radiotherapy treatment to the pelvic area, experienced by nearly all patients. This paper will explore the patho‐physiological rationale of diarrhoea, the causes of radiation‐induced diarrhoea, the factors that influence the severity and occurrence, and the treatment of diarrhoea in relation to the radiotherapy setting, by analysing the current literature and will conclude by outlining future directions in this field.
The NSW Radiation Therapy PDY educational program. A review of the 2002 and 2003 programs
Authors: Beldham‐Collins Rachael , Agustin Cherry Bell
Published: October 2013

Each month, nine radiation oncology departments in the public health sector in New South Wales host a one‐day educational program for graduate practitioners completing their professional development year (PDY). Various topics are presented which are considered relevant to graduates in the transition from the academic environment to full time work in busy clinical departments. This paper presents the findings of a review of the NSW State Radiation Therapy PDY educational program for 2002 and 2003 instigated by the NSW Chiefs Group. The program was evaluated to determine whether it enhanced the learning experiences of graduate practitioners during the PDY. The results indicate the educational program has been successful in enhancing the skills of the radiation therapy graduate practitioners. This finding suggests the program is having a positive impact on the experience of the graduate practitioners within radiation therapy in NSW.
Voyages in time
Authors: Piggott Bruce W
Published: October 2013

While working at Townsville General Hospital in 1999, I was approached by the local museum to x‐ray some artefacts from two shipwrecks. The excavated artefacts, mostly covered in coral and barely recognisable, were from the historically and scientifically significant shipwrecks of the Bounty and Pandora. With the aid of radiography, the conservator was better able to assess, handle and restore these valuable artefacts, which helps further research and education into maritime archaeology. With this material evidence, archaeologists can draw more accurate conclusions about a variety of issues regarding life in the 18th century, while we retain a permanent display to show people the importance of archaeological conservation in the role of history.
Post eclamptic aneurysmal rupture subarachnoid haemorrhage diagnosed in the puerperium
Authors: Coolen Teresa
Published: October 2013

The incidence of subarachnoid and / or intracerebral haemorrhage in women during pregnancy is rare. The risk depends on the stage of pregnancy, but seems to be highest during the late third trimester, during delivery and in the puerperium. Headache can be a symptom of both preeclampsia, subarachnoid haemorrhage and other pathologies or conditions. It is essential for pregnant women with a suspected ruptured aneurysm to be investigated and treated without delay, irrespective of fear of harm to the foetus, to avoid complications from aneurysm rupture.

This case study presents a 39‐year‐old woman who was 35 weeks and 3 days pregnant with known preeclampsia. She endured a headache for the three days leading up to the delivery with associated diplopia on the third day, but these symptoms were thought to be related to her preeclampsia. Over the three hours following childbirth, her headache became more severe and she suffered from vomiting, loss of vision, torticollis and seizures. Computed tomography (CT) of her head revealed a subarachnoid haemorrhage while CT angiography of the Circle of Willis failed to reveal an aneurysm and 4‐vessel angiography only demonstrated an area slightly suspicious for the presence of an aneurysm. 3D rotational angiography clearly demonstrated a 1–2 mm aneurysm superior to the left terminal internal carotid artery. In this case, 3D rotational angiography proved to be a valuable additional technique. This patient underwent surgery for her ruptured aneurysm and has made an excellent recovery.
Wavelet compression algorithm applied to abdominal ultrasound images
Authors: Lin Cheng‐Hsun , Lee Ming‐Che , Pan Su‐Feng , Lu Chin‐Yuan
Published: October 2013

We sought to investigate acceptable compression ratios of lossy wavelet compression on 640 × 480 × 8 abdominal ultrasound (US) images. We acquired 100 abdominal US images with normal and abnormal findings from the view station of a 932‐bed teaching hospital. The US images were then compressed at quality factors (QFs) of 3, 10, 30, and 50 followed outcomes of a pilot study. This was equal to the average compression ratios of 4.3:1, 8.5:1, 20:1 and 36.6:1, respectively. Four objective measurements were carried out to examine and compare the image degradation between original and compressed images. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was also introduced for subjective assessment. Five experienced and qualified radiologists as reviewers blinded to corresponding pathological findings, analysed paired 400 randomly ordered images with two 17‐inch thin film transistor/liquid crystal display (TFT/LCD) monitors. At ROC analysis, the average area under curve (Az) for US abdominal image was 0.874 at the ratio of 36.6:1. The compressed image size was only 2.7% for US original at this ratio. The objective parameters showed the higher the mean squared error (MSE) or root mean squared error (RMSE) values, the poorer the image quality. The higher signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) or peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) values indicated better image quality. The average RMSE, PSNR at 36.6:1 for US were 4.84 ± 0.14, 35.45 dB, respectively. This finding suggests that, on the basis of the patient sample, wavelet compression of abdominal US to a ratio of 36.6:1 did not adversely affect diagnostic performance or evaluation error for radiologists' interpretation so as to risk affecting diagnosis
Online corrections — evidence‐based practice utilising electronic portal imaging to improve the accuracy of field placement for locally advanced prostate cancer
Authors: Middleton Mark , Medwell Steve , Rolfo Aldo , See Andrew , Joon Michael Lim
Published: October 2013

Given the onset of dose escalation and increased planning target volume (PTV) conformity, the requirement of accurate field placement has also increased. This study examines the role of online corrections (OC) to increase the accuracy of field placement. This study explores the role of radiation therapists in the process of achieving an online correction.

Method Field placement data were collected on patients receiving radical radiotherapy to the prostate. Both intra‐ and inter field data was collected with OC being carried out within the confines of the Ballarat Austin Radiation Oncology Centre (BAROC) prostate Electronic Portal Imaging (EPI) policy.

Results Statistical analysis of 740 portal images from 10 patients was carried out, illustrating that without OC field placement will fall at ± 7 mm on a daily basis. This evidence was further supported by a case study of computer dosimetry presenting the worst‐case possible impact upon a patient's total course of treatment if OC were not performed. Discussion The use of OC can prove to be of enormous benefit to both patient and practitioner. For centres with the available technology, it places the responsibility of field placement upon the radiation therapist. This responsibility, and the development of relevant protocols, in turn impacts on the education, training and empowerment of the radiation therapy group. These are issues of the utmost importance to centres considering the use of OC.

Conclusions Without the use of OC there is a serious risk of underdosing both CTV and PTV. In this instance the CTV received only 60% of the prescribed dose, while the PTV received only 80% of the expected dose. OC are an important consideration for those looking to dose escalate.
Optimisation of radiation dose and image quality in 3D multi‐detector CT angiography in abdominal aortic aneurysm: an in vitro aorta phantom study
Authors: McCann Kirstie , Lim Victor , Tomlinson Guy , Way Jason , Alshamakhi Ahmed , Ong Jeanette , Sun Zhonghua
Published: October 2013

The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship of radiation dose and image quality in 3D multi‐detector computed tomography (CT) angiography of abdominal aortic aneurysm based on an aorta phantom.

The study was conducted using a human aorta phantom modelled on a patient with an abdominal aortic aneurysm. To perform the scans of the aorta phantom, it was placed in a specially designed, sealable perspex container, which was filled with iodinated contrast medium. A series of scans was performed using different protocols to test the effect on dose and image quality. These were: the variable detectors (4‐, 32‐ and 64‐slice) used in image acquisition, x‐ray tube current (mA) and pitch values.

A line profile analysis was conducted at three separate locations for each different protocol, namely: the renal artery, superior mesenteric artery, and abdominal aortic aneurysm to determine the degree of image artefacts using standard deviation, which was measured on the virtual intravascular endoscopy images. The effective dose was also calculated for each scanning protocol.

The results indicate that the scans performed on 64 detectors multi‐detector CT produce better image quality compared to 32 and 4 detectors. Increasing scanning parameters such as mA enhances image quality but it also increases the patient's radiation dose. It is also noted that the pitch is inversely proportional to radiation dose, resulting in degradation of image quality. From these results, a 64 multi‐detector CT scanner with a scanning protocol of 120 kVp, 70 mA, and a pitch of 0.641 is ideal for imaging of abdominal aortic aneurysms because it allows for fewer artefacts and less radiation dose when compared to other scanning protocols.
Perceptions of reflective practice among recent Australian radiation therapy graduates
Authors: Brackenridge Sharon A.
Published: October 2013

Reflective practice has been established as playing a critical role in advancing and improving skills, knowledge and practice amongst professionals. Elements of reflective practice are encouraged during radiation therapy student education, yet improved student engagement may facilitate greater translation of this reflective activity into postgraduate clinical practice. This study aims to identify some of the perceptions about reflective practice among recently graduated radiation therapists and their recommendations for improving student engagement with structured reflection. Further, it is suggested that the learning goals of radiation therapy students and their ongoing professional development goals may be better supported through development of understanding, knowledge and skills in reflective practice among the broader community of clinical radiation therapists.
Exercise regimes for treatment of cancer related fatigue
Authors: Beal Alison
Published: October 2013

Cancer related fatigue is a common side effect reported by patients undergoing cancer treatments and can have a significant effect on the daily life of the patient. Regardless, many patients are not recommended any treatment to combat this problem. A significant number of patients have reported decreased levels of cancer related fatigue after exercise. As such, exercise has been investigated as a treatment for cancer related fatigue. This paper reviews the relevant literature regarding the assessment of cancer related fatigue, the impact of exercise‐based interventions on cancer related fatigue and adherence to these interventions.
Does biplane imaging reduce contrast load, procedural and screening time compared to single‐plane imaging in routine diagnostic coronary angiography?
Authors: Sadick Victoria , Trinh Linda , Fernandes Ginella , Pau Pedro , Spiteri Michael , Vu Lan Ahn , Gurunathan Pratheesh , Shoy Victoria Lee , Robinson John
Published: October 2013

Diagnostic coronary angiography requires radiographic contrast media that can cause complications such as contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN). Biplane imaging in diagnostic coronary angiography has been assumed to be beneficial to the patient in reducing total radiographic contrast dosage and examination time, yet there are no definitive studies to support this widely held assumption. A retrospective study was conducted to determine if biplane imaging substantially reduces contrast load, procedural time and screening time in routine diagnostic coronary angiography. Radiographic records of 1156 patients were collected over a period of two years from a major Sydney metropolitan hospital. Patients who underwent a routine diagnostic coronary angiogram and left ventriculogram (LV) were selected on predetermined criteria. The mean total contrast volume showed a small but significant reduction with biplane versus single‐plane imaging (117.5 mL v. 124.3mL, P <0.001). There was a small but significant increase in table time with biplane compared to single‐plane imaging (47.3 min v. 45.2 min, P >0.024). Similarly, a small but significant prolongation in screening time was found with biplane compared to single‐plane imaging (4.8 min v. 4.2 min, P <0.003). The mean number of cine angiography runs was 13.6 in biplane and 9.5 in single‐plane (P <0.001).

These results contradict the assumption that biplane cine angiography substantially reduces contrast load, procedural and screening time when compared to single‐plane imaging.
Mandatory reporting of child abuse requirements for medical imaging professionals throughout Australia
Authors: Denham Gary
Published: October 2013

Laws exist in most states of Australia regarding mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse. In all Australian jurisdictions, the legislation stipulates various people or professions are mandated to report suspected cases of child abuse. In some states, medical imaging professionals are included in the groups of prescribed people mandated to report their suspicions of child abuse, but these laws vary greatly in each state.

Medical imaging professionals must be familiar with their legal obligations and the protection to the reporter provided by those Acts. Even if not legally obligated to report, medical imaging professions can fulfil their moral obligations with protection provided for voluntary reporting by the various Acts throughout Australia.
Communication and electronic access ‐ medical radiation science clinical centres' perspective
Authors: Lyall DG , Surjan Y
Published: October 2013

The last decade has seen a dramatic increase in the availability and use of electronic devices and information in day‐to‐day lives and in the workplace. The tertiary education sector has embraced the electronic age and has, in our cases, taken the lead with innovative use of information technology (IT). While the flexibility IT provides appeals to students and creates new opportunities, the IT infrastructure and staff development required to make full use of the new facilities requires significant investment. The aim of this study was to survey medical radiation science professional centres to assess the availability of IT resources, determine who has access to the IT resources and sample staff attitudes towards their preferred method of communication with the university. A questionnaire was mailed to each Chief Nuclear Medicine Scientist, Chief Radiation Therapist and Chief Radiographer for each clinical centre that participated in The University of Newcastle's clinical placement program (PPS). One hundred and thirty one questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 51%. Twenty‐seven responses from nuclear medicine centres (50%), twenty‐four responses from radiation therapy centres (70%) and 80 responses from diagnostic radiography centres (48%). The majority (85%) of respondents reported they had between three and 30 computers where staff could access the internet, word processing and email. The preferred method of communication was email (52%) versus letter (30%) and telephone (17%). In the event that work load increased, email was a preferred method of communication where the preference for telephone and letters decreased.
Retrospective analysis of diagnostic outcomes in lower gastrointestinal bleeding using angiography and nuclear medicine
Authors: Erskine Brendan J , Marshall Elissa M
Published: October 2013

A retrospective analysis of angiography for the investigation of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) was conducted at our institution, exploring the factors affecting diagnostic yield and the correlation with nuclear medicine 99 mTc red blood cell (RBC) scintigraphy. During a five‐year period (March 2003 to March 2008), 44 patients were investigated using angiography alone with 15 (34%) positive for LGIB. Within the same period 159, 99 mTc RBC scans were performed with 65 (41%) examinations positive for LGIB. Of these 159 patients, 45 proceeded to angiography within a 24‐hour period with 19 (42%) demonstrating active bleeding. Importantly, 10 patients proceeded to angiography despite a negative RBC scan and none recorded a positive angiogram. Also, 19 of 35 (54%) patients demonstrated active bleeding on angiography following a positive RBC scan. The average time between nuclear medicine and angiography was 5.83 hours (range 0.63–21.5 hours). The study was limited to patients demonstrating active, immediate bleeding on RBC scintigraphy, and when performed within 5 hours following, the diagnostic yield of angiography increased from 34% to 89%. Careful adherence to such criteria will in future increase diagnostic confidence for clinical management of LGIB while reducing the number of unnecessary angiographic investigations.
The impact of IGRT for prostate radiotherapy on dosimetry and the traditional workflow practice of focus to skin distance measurements
Authors: Nguyen Huong , Frantzis Jim , Sisson Toni , Jones Mark , Martin Jarad , Middleton Mark
Published: October 2013

Purpose: To assess the relevance of focus to skin distance (FSD) measurements for patients with intraprostatic gold seeds using an image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) protocol. The second aim of this study was to analyse the frequency and nature of isocentre shifts made during a course of treatment for patients with prostate cancer. Additionally, the impact of isocentre shifts on dosimetry, relative to the traditional method of basing dosimetric recalculations on FSD measurements was assessed. Methods and materials: Ten patients underwent prostate radiotherapy with intraprostatic gold seeds and an IGRT protocol. FSD measurements were taken on a daily basis pre‐intervention and also post‐intervention if an isocentre shift was made. Analysis of systematic and random isocentre shifts were made and compared to measured FSDs. An individual case study was carried out assessing the dosimetric impact of multiple isocentre shifts throughout a course of treatment and analysed against measured FSDs. Results: Ten patients received radiotherapy to the prostate (78 Gy/39 fractions). 390 treatment sessions were available for analysis, inclusive of 2340 measured FSDs. Measured FSDs were out of tolerance (greater than 1 cm difference from planned measurement) less than 2% of the total treatment sessions. Of the isocentre shifts made, 66% (160/242) were random and 34% (82/242) were systematic. The individual case study revealed 72% of treatment sessions required an isocentre shift with FSDs being outside tolerance for one session. Conclusions: FSD measurements in the era of intraprostatic gold seed IGRT have been reduced in importance. IGRT has improved the identification of systematic and random errors therefore allowing better visualisation of dosimetric impact these errors may cause. Our data suggest that FSD measurements for men undergoing IGRT for prostate cancer have minimal dosimetric impact.
Diagnostic reference levels as a quality assurance tool
Authors: Edmonds KD
Published: October 2013

The objective of diagnostic reference levels (DRL) in radiology is to assist in the optimisation of radiation dose to patients, while maintaining diagnostic image quality, and to detect unusually high doses that do not contribute significantly to the clinical outcome of a medical imaging examination. DRL have been in existence overseas for more than a decade and its influence has contributed to a steady decline in dose for general radiography and fluoroscopic procedures. High dose modalities such as CT and interventional procedures are increasing dramatically both locally and internationally resulting in the unwanted outcome of a significant increase in population cumulative effective dose. This calls for urgent dose reduction and dose constraint measures. Utilising DRL is one method of optimising patient dose. Some local and international DRL dose levels for some common radiographic, interventional and CT examinations are presented as a suggestion for the application of this methodology in Australian radiology practice.
Radiation therapist‐led weekly patient treatment reviews
Authors: Alfieri F , Le Mottee MA , Arifuddin A , Field N , Milinkovic D , Cox J
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this discussion article is to explore the implementation of radiation therapist‐led treatment reviews as a form of advanced practice for radiation therapists in Australia. The feasibility of such a role, the impact on cancer care services and implementation requirements to enable the position to be implemented effectively in an Australian environment are explored. Current practice involving weekly patient treatment reviews and cases where health professionals other than radiation oncologists have undertaken this role will be evaluated. Recommendations on its implementation in an Australian environment are also given. An extensive literature review was conducted through the databases ScienceDirect, Medline and CINAHL. Searches were carried out using the following keywords; “radi*” and “prescribing”, “radi*” and “patient review” and “radi*” and “role development”. Abstracts of the yielded results were appraised and those that matched criteria for analysis underwent critical review for inclusion in the discussion. Although steps have been taken to implement the advanced practice role of a treatment review radiation therapist in Australia, little has been done to formalise the role. It is evident from the international literature that the radiation therapist‐led reviewer role has resulted in benefits to patients, medical specialists and therapists. This advanced practice role has the potential to increase radiation therapist retention and recruitment. Implementation of this role in the Australian environment would be advantageous; however criteria outlining the scope of practice and remuneration packages need to be established to facilitate the synthesis of this role in a clinical environment.
Designing surveys for radiography and radiation therapy
Authors: O'Connor M , Halkett G
Published: October 2013

Surveys using standardised questionnaires are frequently used in the health area for research, to gather information to inform or improve clinical practice and to gage perceptions or attitudes towards particular issues. As we begin to conduct more studies in the areas of radiography and radiation therapy we need to ensure that it is essential that we use reliable and valid research methods so that findings are robust and, importantly, useable in clinical practice. This review focuses on how to design the questionnaire and highlights some key rules to help avoid the many pitfalls in survey design. The importance of the planning stage and time spent reviewing and revising questions is emphasised and the benefits and challenges of using existing instruments are discussed. Questionnaire layout is addressed and also the wording of individual questions as both of these will affect response rates and how people interpret questions. Wording can be difficult and may take a few drafts to get right. Several examples are given to demonstrate the concepts. The key messages in this review are: spend time planning and make the questionnaire brief, easy and safe. Issues such as response rates, types of questions, how to test for reliability and validity; and how to analyse the data will be covered in a further review for The Radiographer.
Preparedness for clinical practice — perceptions of newly qualified radiographers
Authors: Liang W Tan , Reed W , Agudera M
Published: October 2013

Purpose: To investigate the perceptions of newly qualified radiographers in the Sydney metropolitan area regarding their preparedness for clinical practice. Methods: Twenty‐three newly qualified radiographers (corresponds to a 43% return) from nine public hospitals and nine private practices within the Sydney metropolitan area were surveyed. The questionnaire assessed newly qualified radiographers' preparedness against a number of items derived from published radiography standards by the Australian Institute of Radiography (AIR) pertaining to knowledge, skills and values radiographers should acquire upon graduation and completion of the Professional Development Year (PDY) programme. Statistical analysis examined differences in preparedness between those who work in public hospitals and those who work in private practices. Results: Significant differences in perceived preparedness between newly qualified radiographers who practice in public hospitals and those who practice in private practices were found in two criteria which include the ability to care for patients with physical or mental disability and equipment manipulation. Positive feedback was given in regards to university degree and PDY programme preparation. Suggestions for degree and PDY programme improvement were provided. Conclusion: Overall, newly qualified radiographers perceived themselves as well prepared for their role as an accredited practitioner.