Research In Radiotherapy

This exciting new book equips radiography students and practitioners with the key skills and strategies required to undertake research within medical imaging and radiotherapy and to disseminate the research findings effectively. Quantitative and qualitative research methods are covered, with guidance provided on the entire research process, from literature researching, information management and literature evaluation through to data collection, data analysis, and writing up. Attention is drawn to sampling errors and other potential sources of bias, and the conduct of randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses are clearly explained. Specific instruction is given on the structure and presentation of dissertations, writing journal articles for publication, and the dissemination of research findings at conferences. Information on patient and public involvement in research and research funding bodies are also provided with advice on how to maximize the likelihood of success when submitting applications for funding.

This book addresses a wide range of topics, from the principles of evidence-based practice to the process and dissemination of research to unique considerations such as clinical trials, patenting, and health services research. The case for evidence-based practice and a collaborative research culture is made first, followed by a series of chapters walking the reader through the research process by way of the scientific method. One of the more unique aspects of the scope of this book is the inclusion of chapters relating to the dissemination of knowledge, manuscript publication, and how to build an academic research program. Each chapter focuses on introducing the reader to foundational principles, methodology, and terminology, and highlight case studies of radiation therapist research or experience that is relevant to provide contextual examples and inspiration to the reader.

This book concisely reviews important advances in radiation oncology, providing practicing radiation oncologists with a fundamental understanding of each topic and an appreciation of its significance for the future of radiation oncology. It explores in detail the impact of newer imaging modalities, such as multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) using fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and other novel agents, which deliver improved visualization of the physiologic and phenotypic features of a given cancer, helping oncologists to provide more targeted radiotherapy and assess the response. Due consideration is also given to how advanced technologies for radiation therapy delivery have created new treatment options for patients with localized and metastatic disease, highlighting the increasingly important role of image-guided radiotherapy in treating systemic and oligometastatic disease. Further topics include the potential value of radiotherapy in enhancing immunotherapy thanks to the broader immune-stimulatory effects, how cancer stem cells and the tumor microenvironment influence response, and the application of mathematical and systems biology methods to radiotherapy.

Advances in Radiotherapy Research and Application: 2013 Edition is a ScholarlyEditions™ book that delivers timely, authoritative, and comprehensive information about Brachytherapy. The editors have built Advances in Radiotherapy Research and Application: 2013 Edition on the vast information databases of ScholarlyNews.™ You can expect the information about Brachytherapy in this book to be deeper than what you can access anywhere else, as well as consistently reliable, authoritative, informed, and relevant. The content of Advances in Radiotherapy Research and Application: 2013 Edition has been produced by the world’s leading scientists, engineers, analysts, research institutions, and companies. All of the content is from peer-reviewed sources, and all of it is written, assembled, and edited by the editors at ScholarlyEditions™ and available exclusively from us. You now have a source you can cite with authority, confidence, and credibility. More information is available at http://www.ScholarlyEditions.com/.

Developments in radiation oncology have been key to the tremendous progress made in the field in recent years. The combination of optimal systemic treatment and local therapy has resulted in continuing improved outcomes of cancer therapy. This progress forms the basis for current pre-clinical and clinical research which will strengthen the position of radiation oncology as an essential component of oncological care. This book summarizes recent advances in radiotherapy research and clinical patient care. Topics include radiobiology, radiotherapy technology, and particle therapy. Chapters cover a summary and analysis of recent developments in the search for biomarkers for precision radiotherapy, novel imaging possibilities and treatment planning, and advances in understanding the differences between photon and particle radiotherapy. Advances in Radiation Therapy is an invaluable source of information for scientists and clinicians working in the field of radiation oncology. It is also a relevant resource for those interested in the broad topic of radiotherapy in general.

Radiation Oncology Study Guide is a comprehensive study aid for radiation oncology residents preparing for the American Board of Radiology Radiation Oncology Initial Certification board exam. Presenting the fundamental principles of radiation oncology, the book covers the most salient and commonly tested facts on the exam. Organized by specific disease sites, each chapter presents a series of questions and answers that present clinical features, staging, principles of treatment, and evidence-based studies that guide treatment recommendations, with an emphasis on radiotherapy studies. The book offers over 1,000 multiple-choice questions with detailed answers and rationales.