bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Specification and initial evaluation of a multiple application teleradiology system
Authors: O'Hare N J , Wallis F , Kennedy J M T , Hickey E , McDermott G J , Dowling A , Murphy J , Malone J F 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
The digitization and transmission of medical images is becoming increasingly more important and available. The selection of appropriate clinical applications for teleradiology systems is an important factor in determining the success of such ventures. In this paper, the selection of such applications and the evaluation of the teleradiology system is described. The system (LIAISON™, CAPTEC Ltd, Malahide, Ireland) is PC based and is capable of digitization and transmission of three categories of medical images: (1) plain film radiographs; (2) CT film data and (3) video sequences such as ultrasound scans. A comprehensive technical evaluation was carried out on the acquisition and display station in which various parameters such as spatial resolution, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and distortion were investigated. Results showed that the system performed well within specifications. An exploratory clinical evaluation was performed using a case mix of subtle fractures, chests and dislocations, and CT scans. Here the system performed well with a diagnostic accuracy of 95% for the digital image compared with the analogue image.
Spatial distribution of femoral bone mineral in dual energy X-ray absorptiometry images: a possible technique to improve discrimination between normal and osteoporotic patients
Authors: Berry E , Truscott J G , Stewart S P , Smith M A 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
The measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) provides an indicator of subsequent risk of hip fracture, but because of the significant overlap of measurements obtained from osteoporotic and control groups its predictive power is limited. The radiographic technique of Singh grading for the assessment of femoral osteoporosis utilizes information about the distribution of trabecular bundles, but the morphological information available in the DXA image has not previously been analysed. In this study of DXA images from 64 individuals (32 controls and 32 classified as osteoporotic) a subjective grading technique analogous to Singh grading is proposed, and quantitative measurements are made of image features corresponding to two of the categories. Discrimination was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves: the best discrimination was by spinal BMD (AZ = 0.85±0.05) a performance equalled by one of the new parameters; the subjective grading method (Az = 0.79±0.07) performed as well as measurements of BMD in the femur. These results suggest that although the alternative measures do not improve on the discrimination possible using spinal BMD, morphological information from the hip itself may in the future have a place in the assessment of bone quality.
Survey on image quality and dose levels used in Europe for mammography
Authors: Verdun F R , Moeckli R , Valley J-F , Bochud F , Hessler C 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Quality assurance programmes are becoming a common practice in the field of mammography. At the present time several recommendations exist and different test objects are used to optimize this radiological procedure. The goal of this study was to check if geographically distant centres using different quality control procedures were comparable when using a common objective way of assessing image quality. The results show that consensus still needs to be found among radiologists to reach a satisfactory level of harmony between patient doses and image quality in Europe.
Kilovoltage measurement with rhodium target and filters on mammography X-ray machines
Authors: Underwood A C , Law J , Goodman D A , Robinson A , Rust A 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
X-ray machines used for mammography have, until recently, almost exclusively employed molybdenum (Mo) as anode material and filtration. In the UK, the RMI model 232 kVp meter is used extensively for the measurement of kilovoltage on such equipment. This unit is provided with switchable internal calibration only for molybdenum and molybdenum, or tungsten and aluminium, as anode and filtration, respectively. However, rhodium (Rh) has recently been introduced for filtration with either a molybdenum or rhodium anode in mammography equipment but, as yet, calibration facilities are not available for rhodium spectra. In this work, appropriate corrections for readings obtained with the RMI 232 kVp meter are derived for use with rhodium as filtration material with either molybdenum or rhodium anode material. An intercomparison between measurements made with four RMI model 232 kVp meters and nine IGE DMR X-ray sets was undertaken. The reproducibility of the instruments was confirmed and measurements of tube potential made on each of the X-ray sets pooled. Measurements were made from a nominal 25–35 kVp using Mo/Mo, Mo/Rh and Rh/Rh target/filter combinations. Corrections for readings obtained with Mo/Rh and Rh/Rh were produced by comparison with readings obtained with Mo/Mo, assuming stability of tube potential between anodes. The results are compared with data recently produced by the manufacturer of the meter.
Effects of radiation on the cell proliferation kinetics of epithelial tissues—therapeutic implications
Authors: Morris G M 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
The cell kinetic responses of the epithelia of the skin, oral mucosa and intestine to photon irradiation are reviewed. One of the fundamental assumptions made in the development of mathematical models, used to predict the acute response of normal tissues to changes in fractionation protocols, is “equal effect per fraction”. There is now accumulating cell kinetic data to indicate that this assumption is unlikely to be valid. The implications of these findings are discussed.
The reduction of tumour control with increasing overall time: mathematical considerations
Authors: Jones B , Dale R G 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
The rate of loss of tumour control (dp/dt) with extension of treatment time is analysed to assess the relative contributions of radiobiological parameters (radiosensitivity, clonogen doubling time, clonogen numbers and fractionation schedule) on such loss. Linear quadratic modelling and Poisson statistics are used to study individual tumour responses. A heterogeneous tumour population is constructed by the use of random sampling techniques to allow for variations in intrinsic radiosensitivity and clonogen doubling times. Average tumour control probability is calculated for this population for two different fractionation schedules (60 Gy in 30 fractions and 50 Gy in 15 fractions), each given over 15–60 days. The magnitude of dp/dt will depend upon the tumour cure probability (P): the loss of control will be most significant for tumours which have a cure of 37% when the Poisson survival model is used. The analysis suggests that compensation for short unscheduled treatment gaps (e.g. by increasing the total dose or rescheduling with use of weekend treatment sessions) may only be required for difficult tumours (i.e. radioresistant and/or with short clonogen doubling times). Where pre-treatment clonogen numbers are relatively low as in small volume tumours or after surgical debulking, the model predicts that correction for short treatment gaps is probably not required if the average effective clonogen doubling times are longer than 5 days. Different dose–time–fractionation schedules, even though producing similar overall cure rates in clinical practice, may actually be achieving cures in different subpopulations within a population of tumours, since the value of dp/dt in each individual tumour will depend upon the set of radiobiological parameters given above. For a hypothetical randomly selected heterogeneous tumour population the predicted rates of loss of tumour control produced by an extension in treatment time are 0.9 and 1.1% per day, respectively, for the above fractionation schedules. These values are close to those reported in the clinical literature for the first 2 weeks of treatment prolongation (1–2% per day for squamous cell carcinomas). The Poisson method, when combined with random sampling techniques, consequently provides realistic data. Modelling of this clinical problem provides an insight into how tumour sub-populations, each characterized by its own set of radiobiological parameters, can influence the overall rate of loss of tumour control in a heterogeneous population. Random sampling techniques should be considered as necessary precursors for the assessment of the choices of dose/fractionation in future clinical trials particularly when more precise data regarding the radiobiological parameters and their statistical variations become available.
Abscess of the adductor muscles of the thigh—an unusual complication of Crohn's disease
Authors: Denton E R E , Jamieson C P , Rankin S C 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
The occurrence of a Crohn's abscess involving the hamstring muscle group has not been reported previously. We report this diagnosis in a patient with ileocolonic Crohn's disease who had presented earlier with a presacral abscess.
Multiple highly reflective foci in the renal parenchyma are not specific for pseudoxanthoma elasticum
Authors: Domjan J M , Dewbury K C 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
A characteristic appearance of highly reflective foci in the renal parenchyma has been reported in patients with pseudoxanthoma elasticum. We describe a similar patient but in addition have found two patients with a similar appearance on ultrasound who have no other evidence of the condition. The appearance of highly reflective foci in the renal parenchyma is not therefore specific for pseudoxanthoma elasticum.
Malignant teratoma in the thyroid gland
Authors: Ramadas K , Augustin J , Parameswaran S , Joseph F 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Malignant teratomas of the thyroid gland are rare. These are highly malignant tumours with a high frequency of local recurrence and metastases following surgery. We report a case of malignant teratoma of the thyroid gland in a 35-year-old female, who developed local recurrence immediately following total thyroidectomy. Despite achieving local control following chemotherapy and local radiotherapy, the patient developed distant relapse illustrating the aggressive nature of the disease.
Anaphylactic IgE and IgG1 production for hapten can be enhanced by contrast media
Authors: Miyauchi T , Hirano T , Ushiyama C , Ovary Z , Okumura K , Katayama H 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Various side effects have been associated with the clinical use of contrast media. Immunological mechanisms have been proposed but there have been very few experimental studies with animal models. We have attempted to develop murine models to determine whether or not anaphylactic antibodies such as IgE and IgG1 against hapten (DNP) were enhanced with contrast medium (iopamidol) as an adjuvant or if the contrast medium itself produced antibodies of the IgE class. The results showed that anti-hapten IgE and IgG1 production was greatly enhanced with immunogen plus contrast medium. Anti-contrast medium antibodies of the IgE class could not be detected by PCA reactions. The enhancement of IgE and IgG1 production for hapten was associated with IL-4 release by the neutralization test used by monoclonal anti-IL-4 antibodies. This is the first observation to show that contrast media may have a strong adjuvant effect for the production of IgE and IgG1. This murine model demonstrates a possible immunological function of contrast media in vivo.
Development of an experimental model for high dose rate endocavitary irradiation of the rat rectum
Authors: Johannessen H O , Olsen D R , Giercksky K E 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Experimental data indicate a greater tolerance for endocavitary than for external beam irradiation of the normal rectal tissue in the rat. Increased tolerance has been attributed to temperature induced rectal hypoxia and a reduction of the dose to the mesentery. The general scarcity of experimental work in the field and the problems concerning hypoxia and dosimetry motivated the development of the current model. An 8 mm diameter endocavitary applicator was used for symmetrical dilatation and central introduction of the 192Ir source into the rectum of male Fischer F344 rats. Pulse oximetry and pO2-electrode readings from the intubated rectum gave no indication of radiobiological hypoxia. In vitro and in vivo thermoluminescence dosimetry (TLD) was supported by MRI based ferrous sulphate gel dosimetry. Using a 25 mm length source configuration the 90% isodose incorporated a 13 mm length segment of the rectum, and a 5–6% maximum deviation from the calculated dose was observed by the TLD and MRI based gel dosimetry. The ureters, the bladder and the skin were the only organs other than the target organ which received doses greater than 10% of the rectal dose. The model seems to be suitable for dose effect studies since endocavitary irradiation of the rat rectum can be performed without induction of local tissue hypoxia.
Sclerotic skeletal haemangiomatosis presenting with spinal cord compression — CT and MRI findings
Authors: Chrysikopoulos H , Roussakis A , Tsakraklides V , Vassilouthis J 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
We report the case of a 59-year-old man with skeletal haemangiomatosis who presented with progressive bilateral lower extremity weakness. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) located the causative lesion in the neural arch of the T4 vertebra. CT demonstrated osseous expansion with a mixed lytic and sclerotic pattern. MRI of the lesion showed hypointensity on T 1 weighted images, mixed signal intensity on T 2 weighted images and moderate contrast enhancement. Similar but less extensive lesions were present in other vertebrae as well as ribs.
External radiation protection audit in National Health Service hospitals
Authors: Rogers A T , Crawley M T , Dixon-Brown A , Dudley N J , Nicholas D , Pearson D , Przeslak A , Weatherburn H 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Radiation protection advisers are accustomed to carrying out internal audit in organizations for which they provide services but, traditionally, external audit has not been a part of the radiation protection adviser function. To provide an external audit function, two teams of radiation protection advisers undertook external radiation protection audits of their respective organizations, including the radiation protection adviser function itself. These audits were more representative of audits or inspections carried out by government agencies, for example the Health and Safety Executive and the former Inspectorate of Pollution, now the Environment Agency. Subsequently, reports, including recommendations for remedial action, were prepared for each management by the external auditors. The process of setting up and carrying out the external audits is described. Guidelines are suggested for those seeking to carry out an external audit.
The absolute signal-to-noise ratio in MRI acceptance testing
Authors: McRobbie D W 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
The absolute signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measurable from images is defined and related to the theoretical fundamental SNR for MRI. Absolute SNR for quadrature head coils was obtained by both measurement and analysis of published data for MRI systems in the range 0.5–1.5 T. Mean absolute SNR for 22 MRI systems was 1.59±0.25 × 104 Hz½ ml−1 T−1 and did not vary significantly with the static field strength or gradient strength and signal bandwidth. This can be related to the fundamental SNR calculated as 2.36 × 104 Hz½ ml−1 T−1 through an effective noise figure with an average value of 3.4 dB for the 22 systems. Use of this methodology is discussed in relation to acceptance testing and performance assessment.
Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms
Authors: Dyet J F 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms is an exciting new procedure. Depending on aneurysm morphology, tube grafts, bifurcated grafts or aorto–uni–iliac systems may be used. Early results are encouraging but many problems will require solving before the technique comes into general use.
The use of metoclopramide for the small bowel meal examination: pre-procedural versus peri-procedural oral administration
Authors: Paul N , Rawlinson J , Keir M 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Administration of oral metoclopramide reduces the transit time for barium to reach the caecum during a small bowel meal (SBM). Current practice is to administer the metoclopramide 5–10 min prior to the barium. We devised a prospective randomized, controlled trial to assess whether administration of metoclopramide 90 min prior to the barium would further reduce the transit time without adversely affecting the quality of the study. Although administration of oral metoclopramide significantly reduced the transit time when compared with a control population, there was no significant difference in transit time between the groups which received metoclopramide.
MRI in the evaluation of late bone marrow changes following bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Tanner S F , Clarke J , Leach M O , Mesbahi M H , Nicolson V , Powles R , Husband J E , Tait D 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Measurements of MR spin-lattice (T 1), and spin–spin (T 2) relaxation times in lumbar vertebrae have been performed in a pilot study on six adult patients, treated for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). All patients were treated with initial chemotherapy and then proceeded to bone marrow transplantation (BMT), conditioned with Melphalan and total body irradiation (TBI). MR measurements were made between 21 and 89 months after TBI. The relaxation times in the six patients were compared with those in six healthy age-matched volunteers to establish whether there were differences between the two groups. Average T 1 values in the vertebrae of the treated patients are significantly shorter (p&lt;0.01) than in the healthy volunteers. This is consistent with the observation of a relatively hyperintense vertebral bone marrow in the T 1 weighted images and is likely to be a consequence of treatment induced fatty replacement of marrow. Shorter T 1 values tend to be distributed within the centre of the lumbar vertebrae compatible with observations, made by others, which suggest that the peripheral zone of the vertebral body has been repopulated with bone marrow cells whereas the central zone, around the basivertebral vein, is predominantly fat. Histogram displays of vertebral body relaxation time distributions (T 1, T 2) for both patients and healthy age-matched volunteers are similar in that both patients and volunteers give histograms that are only slightly skewed. This similarity is probably a reflection of the fact that the patients have been in remission for over a year and have generally healthy bone marrow.
CT–MRI image fusion for 3D conformal prostate radiotherapy: use in patients with altered pelvic anatomy
Authors: Lau H Y , Kagawa K , Lee W R , Hunt M A , Shaer A H , Hanks G E 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
We describe the application of CT–MRI fusion software for 3D conformal radiotherapy in two patients with localized prostate cancer who had significantly altered pelvic anatomy due to prior surgery. Patient A had a hemipelvectomy for fibrosarcoma and Patient B had an abdominoperineal resection (APR) for rectal carcinoma. Using the Picker AcQSIM 3D treatment planning software equipped with CT–MRI fusion capabilities, we were able to construct 3D conformal treatment plans for the two patients. The CT–MRI fusion was invaluable in the 3D conformal treatment planning of these cases with distorted pelvic anatomy. It allowed for accurate identification of the clinical target volume (CTV) and was also able to better visualize normal structures so that the radiation beams could be placed to minimize toxicity to the normal tissues.
Plain film reporting by radiographers—a feasibility study
Authors: Robinson P J A 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
Two specially-trained radiographers reported 561 plain film examinations on accident and emergency (A/E) patients in parallel with rota radiologists of varying seniority. The reports were concordant in 495 cases (88.2%) and discordant in 66 (11.8%). The incidence of errors (false positives and false negatives) in the reports made by the two groups of observers was not significantly different. It may be feasible to introduce suitably trained radiographers into a reporting rota for A/E examinations with no detriment to the quality of reports.
Comparison of portal imaging and megavoltage verification films for conformal pelvic irradiation
Authors: Thompson V , Bidmead M , Mubata C 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
This study has evaluated the use of electronic portal imaging (EPI) as a replacement for megavoltage verification films in the treatment of conformal pelvic patients. The two methods of imaging have been compared in 40 patients. Several advantages of EPI were identified, including ease of image acquisition, regular assessment of reproducibility of set-up and the possibility of on-line intervention when necessary. The findings suggest that EPI is a suitable replacement for films.
Effectiveness of a Pragmatic Education Program Designed to Promote Walking Activity in Individuals With Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Yates Thomas , Davies Melanie , Gorely Trish , Bull Fiona , Khunti Kamlesh 
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVE
To investigate whether a pragmatic structured education program with and without pedometer use is effective for promoting physical activity and improving glucose tolerance in those with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
Overweight and obese individuals with IGT were recruited from ongoing screening studies at the University Hospitals of Leicester, U.K. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups. Group 1 received a 3-h group-based structured education program designed to promote walking activity using personalized steps-per-day goals and pedometers. Group 2 received a 3-h group-based structured education program designed to promote walking activity using generic time-based goals. Group 3 received a brief information leaflet (control condition). Outcomes included an oral glucose tolerance test, standard anthropometric measures, ambulatory activity, and psychological variables. Follow-up was conducted at 3, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS
A total of 87 individuals (66% male, mean age 65 years) were included in this study. At 12 months, significant decreases in 2-h postchallenge glucose and fasting glucose of −1.31 mmol/l (95% CI −2.20 to −0.43) and −0.32 mmol/l (−0.59 to −0.03), respectively, were seen in the pedometer group compared with the control group. No significant improvements in glucose control were seen in those given the standard education program.

CONCLUSIONS
This study suggests that a pragmatic structured education program that incorporates pedometer use is effective for improving glucose tolerance in those with IGT. This result is likely to have important implications for future primary care–based diabetes prevention initiatives.