Characterization of LiF TLD-100 in carbon ion beams for remote audits.

Background: A passive dosimeter framework for the measurement of dose in carbon ion beams has yet to be characterized or implemented for regular use.

Purpose: This work determined the dose calculation correction factors for absorbed dose in thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) in a therapeutic carbon ion beam. TLD could be a useful tool for remote audits, particularly in the context of clinical trials as new protocols are developed for carbon ion radiotherapy.

Changing public perceptions of alcohol, alcohol harms and alcohol policies: A multi-methods study to develop novel framing approaches.

Background And Aims: Public perceptions of alcohol and its related harms and policies are shaped by multiple discourses and can influence behaviour and policy support. As part of a FrameWorks-informed project to test framing approaches to improve public understanding and support for evidence-based alcohol policies in the UK, this research aimed to (i) summarise relevant evidence; (ii) compare how public understanding of alcohol harms differs from those of academic and charity experts; and (iii) develop novel framing approaches.

Methods: (1) a literature review including systematic, scoping and targeted components to understand previous evidence on effective framing from behaviour change, UK alcohol policy and FrameWorks literatures; (2) comparison of public views of alcohol harms and policies from four focus groups (n = 20) with those of public health experts; (3) an iterative process involving workshops and stakeholder consultation to develop 12 novel framing approaches.

Tumor specific delivery and radiation-enhanced tumor penetration of mesoporous silica nanoparticles for effective radionuclide therapy of ovarian peritoneal metastasis.

Advanced ovarian cancer with peritoneal metastasis is challenging to treat. Limited tumor delivery and penetration of the therapeutics to deep tumor regions are significant barriers to effective treatment. The rising radiopharmaceuticals offer hopes for patients through targeted delivery.

Using High-Speed Videoendoscopy to Analyze Laryngeal Closure Parameters During Normal Swallow.

Objective: This pilot study was designed to test the tolerability of a lower scope position and feasibility of custom-designed MATLAB graphical user interface (GUI) used to analyze playback review of laryngeal high-speed videoendoscopy (laryngeal HSV) during healthy volitional dry swallows. We hypothesized this method would conceptually provide time resolution for glottic closure events compared with standard (30 frames per second, fps), and enable a means to measure timing, sequence, and duration of laryngeal movements during swallowing not otherwise visualized.

Methods: A total of 14 healthy adults (4 male, 22-80 years) participated.

Infraglottal Medialization: Increasing Vocal Fold Stiffness Gradient for Improved Vocal Efficiency.

Objectives/hypothesis: Assess the impact of the infraglottal medialization technique on acoustics and the vertical stiffness gradient of the vocal fold using excised canine larynges.

Methods: Seven ex vivo canine larynges were tested in three states: 1) no implant, 2) medialized using a glottal implant, and 3) medialized fold using an infraglottal implant. Outcome measures were vocal efficiency and stiffness of the fold.