Radiation Protection

The goal of this project is to develop a mobile food irradiation facility that will allow rapid deployment of a system capable of reducing the number of food borne illnesses and disease by reducing bacterial pathogens and eliminating insect infestations while simultaneously enhancing ...

Introduction In 2020, Japan recorded the highest number of computed tomography (CT) units per million population among Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. This surplus may lead to unnecessary procedures, increased costs, and increased radiation exposure. This study estimated CT procedures per 1,000 population and analyzed their usage by sex and age using governmental surveys and health insurance claim data.

models have been developed to describe dissolution of Pu/Am/Cm after internal contamination by inhalation or wound, chelation of actinides by diethylene triamine penta acetic acid (DTPA) in different retention compartments and excretion of actinide-DTPA complexes. After coupling these models with those currently used for dose calculation, the modelling approach was assessed by fitting human data available in IDEAS database. Good fits were obtained for most studied cases, but further experimental studies are needed to validate some modelling hypotheses as well as the range of parameter values. From these first results, radioprotection tools are being developed: MAnagement of DOse Reduction after DTPA therapy.

Objectives To evaluate radiation protection basic knowledge and dose assessment for radiological procedures among Italian radiographers Methods A validated questionnaire was distributed to 780 participants with balanced demographic characteristics and geographic distribution. Results Only 12.1 % of participants attended radiation protection courses on a regular basis. Despite 90 % of radiographers stating to have sufficient awareness of radiation protection issues, most of them underestimated the radiation dose of almost all radiological procedures. About 5 % and 4 % of the participants, respectively, claimed that pelvis magnetic resonance imaging and abdominal ultrasound exposed patients to radiation. On the contrary, 7.0 % of the radiographers stated that mammography does not use ionising radiation. About half of participants believed that radiation-induced cancer is not dependent on age or gender and were not able to differentiate between deterministic and stochastic effects. Young radiographers (with less than 3 years of experience) showed a higher level of knowledge compared with the more experienced radiographers. Conclusions There is a substantial need for radiographers to improve their awareness of radiation protection issues and their knowledge of radiological procedures. Specific actions such as regular training courses for both undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as for working radiographers must be considered in order to assure patient safety during radiological examinations. • Radiographers should improve their knowledge on radiation protection issues. • Only 12.1 % of participants attended radiation protection courses on a regular basis. • Specific actions must be considered in order to increase knowledge and awareness.

Isotopic fractionation of tritium is a highly relevant issue in radiation protection and requires certain radioecological considerations. Sound evaluation of this factor is indeed necessary to determine whether environmental compartments are enriched/depleted in tritium or if tritium is, on the contrary, isotopically well-distributed in a given system. The ubiquity of tritium and the standard analytical methods used to assay it may induce biases in both the measurement and the signification that is accorded to the so-called fractionation: based on an exhaustive review of the literature, we show how, sometimes large deviations may appear. It is shown that when comparing the non-exchangeable fraction of organically bound tritium (neOBT) to another fraction of tritium (e.g. tritiated water) the preparation of samples and the measurement of neOBT reported frequently led to underestimation of the ratio of tritium to hydrogen (T/H) in the non-exchangeable compartment by a factor of 5 % to 50 %. In the present study, corrections are proposed for most of the biological matrices studied so far. Nevertheless, the values of isotopic fractionation reported in the literature remain difficult to compare with each other, especially since the physical quantities and units often vary between authors. Some improvements are proposed to better define what should encompass the concepts of exchangeable and non-exchangeable fractions.

To determine the effectiveness of 0.5-mm-thick lead-equivalent aprons in vascular radiology. The radiation dose to radiology personnel was measured under and over lead aprons in more than 100 patient examinations. Thermoluminescent dosimeters of high and normal sensitivities (detection levels of 1 and 10 microGy, respectively) were used. Dose measurements in clinical practice were complemented with real-time measurement of generating potential, dose-area product, and fluoroscopy time. In addition, measurements of the radiation attenuation of aprons were performed in simulated exposure conditions. The generating potential in fluoroscopy--weighted for the contribution to the occupational exposure--varied between about 70 and 95 kV per examination (average, 78 kV). On the basis of measurements obtained under clinical conditions in vascular radiology, attenuation factors between 70 and 280 were derived. The typical radiation attenuation factor for 0.5-mm-thick lead-equivalent aprons was 200. The effectiveness of 0.5-mm-thick lead-equivalent aprons, determined with clinical measurements, agrees with estimates based on generating potential. Previously published effective doses, inferred from nonclinically determined radiation transmission factors, probably overestimate the actual dose levels.

The medical application of radiation can induce radio-biological effects which makes it necessary to ensure some safety precautions, of which, room shielding is one of those safety measures. The aim of this study was to assess the lead wall lining thickness of the radio-diagnostic room of Turai Yaradua Maternity and Children Hospital Katsina. The required lead wall lining thickness was estimated using NCRP 147 formulations. The measured area of the radio-diagnostic room was 39.44 m2. The maximum required lead thickness values were estimated as 1.1 mm and 0.8 mm for erect and supine radiographic positions, respectively, while, the installed lead wall lining thickness was 2 mm. The area monitoring revealed that there was no leakage radiation. Though, the shielding was adequate and there was no leakage radiation, it is however recommended that the radiation workers maintain maximum distance, minimum exposure time and use shielding barrier in order to ensure minimal occupational radiati...

The safety of the patient is of highest importance during diagnostic imaging which uses various forms of ionizing radiations mainly photons (x-rays and gamma rays). Both the patient and personnel working in the diagnostic facility may be exposed to unintentional source of radiations during diagnostic imaging. This study was conducted at the Federal Medical Center, Katsina and General Amadi Rimi Specialist Hospital, Katsina to assess the shielding adequacy of the barriers required to attenuate the intensity of X-ray to recommended limit. The National Council on Radiation Protection and measurement (NCRP), Report No 147 was used to evaluate the shielding barriers of the radiographic rooms in the two facilities. Calculation was done using the number of patients (N), occupancy factor (T), Design dose limit (P) and the distance to the occupied area (controlled and uncontrolled area). The result shows that the room area meets the recommendation of Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Agency (NNRA) ...

Este artigo descreve o desenvolvimento de um software baseado em LabVIEW® para a leitura de velocidade de atletas em meio aquático (p.e, natação) e em meio terrestre (marcha). Os dados em tensão adquiridos por uma placa de aquisição de dados USB de baixo custo, fornecidos pelo equipamento comercial swim speedo-meter da empresa swimsportec. O software desenvolvido permite a visualização em tempo-real dos dados de velocidade e também permite a sua análise à posterior sendo guardados num ficheiro. Os valores de tensão para as diferentes velocidades foram obtidos executando deslocamentos lineares com recurso a um robô industrial ABB IRB 1400

The Likely Effect of a Radiological Dispersion Device With the end of the Cold War, the political and strategic relationships that undergirded the global balance of power were shattered. The powers that held nation-states together, like the USSR, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, and others largely disappeared and to fill the vacuum left by the reduction of political authority, nationalist and religious identities emerged strong. As a result, the former USSR has broken into at least thirteen new countries, mostly along historic ethnic lines, Czechoslovakia into two, Yugoslavia, violently, into five along both religious and ethnic lines. These are only the most familiar examples, as there are many more. The threat of this type of strategic and geopolitical change is in the change itself. During this time, most significantly in the former USSR, much of the military hardware was sold off, traded, or stolen, to include radiological materials. . This missing nuclear materials and its potential for military application, combined with the evolving terrorist threat creates a security concern of some importance. Terrorist groups have made it known that they are searching for nuclear weapons to deploy on U.S. soil (Farah, "Al-Qaeda's U. S. targets", 2005;. The easiest type of nuclear device for terrorist groups to assemble is what is called a Radiological Dispersion Device (or RDD), and is often referred to as a "dirty bomb" Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA], 2005). According to the U.S. Department of Defense, an RDD is "any device, including any weapon or equipment, other than a nuclear explosive device, specifically designed to employ radioactive material by disseminating it to cause destruction, damage, or injury by means of the radiation produced by the decay of such material" ). An RDD is typically a conventional explosive combined with some type of radiological material. It is not a nuclear

Radiation sources are used in various industrial applications like industrial radiography, industrial irradiation, industrial fluoroscopy, nucleonic gauges, well logging etc.. Gamma, beta X-ray as well as neutron sources are used for various applications. Number of radiation workers in this field has increased over the years. Due to operating conditions prevailing during the exposure as well as the strength of the sources used in some of the applications, radiation protection plays an important role in this field. Analysis of doses received by radiation workers in industry provides information on trends of doses as well as adequateness of radiation protection practices followed in this sector. In India, National Occupational Dose Registry System (NODRS) of Radiological Physics and Advisory Division (RPAD), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) maintains personnel dose information of monitored radiation workers in the country. Analysis of occupational dose data of industrial radiation workers for last 10 years, i.e., 1999-2008 has been presented in this paper. It is observed that even though there is an increase in monitored radiation workers, percentage of persons receiving radiation exposure has come down during this period. There is also a decrease in the average annual dose as well as the collective dose. Further analysis of sub-categories shows that industrial radiography operations are the main contributor for collective dose (about 77%) followed by well logging and industrial X-ray operations (about 8% each). Thus, in addition to industrial radiography, attention is also to be given to operations in these areas.

A radiação ultravioleta pode provocar danos ao DNA, imunossupressão, alterações químicas e histológicas na epiderme, envelhecimento precoce, cataratas e carcinogênese, dentre outras deteriorações. A fotoproteção previne estes e outros efeitos danosos da radiação ultravioleta. Protetores solares, vestimentas, acessórios adequados e exposição segura ao sol são ferramentas essenciais da fotoproteção. Neste artigo, são apresentadas e discutidas as principais formas de fotoproteção, incluindo os protetores solares com filtros inorgânicos e orgânicos, a avaliação da eficácia dos mesmos e atualizações envolvendo o tema

Chromosome aberration analysis was performed in blood lymphocytes of 29 Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant workers and 41 medical workers employed in diagnostic radiology. Their radiation exposure doses did not exceed the annual dose limit (20 mSv of the effective dose). The control groups comprised ageand sexmatched donors, 26 females and 64 males. Chromosome aberration frequencies in the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant workers did not differ from those in controls (1.62 ± 0.25 versus 1.65 ± 0.15 CA/100 cells, P > 0.05). However, a significant increase in the total chromosome aberration (2.57 ± 0.24 versus 1.74 ± 0.22 CA/100 cells, P < 0.05) and total chromosome-type aberration frequencies (1.40 ± 0.19 versus 0.82 ± 0.18 per 100 cells, P < 0.05) was found in the medical personnel.

High-energy reactions in spallation targets produce a large number of radioactive isotopes that are a concern for radioprotection in normal conditions (gas release, waste disposal), in case of accident and in view of the decommissioning. Transport codes able to predict reliably the production of radioactive isotopes in spallation targets are therefore essential. Recently, the INCL4.6-Abla07 combination of models, which was proven to have a very good predictive power of spallation residue production in the IAEA benchmark of spallation models, has been implemented in a MCNPX2.7 and PHITS. Examples of simulations done with this code are presented. The first example concerns the European Spallation Source (ESS) tungsten target. A careful benchmarking of the code on W elementary cross-sections (excitation functions) allows assessing the uncertainty on the predictions of the most hazardous isotopes. The second one is devoted to the production of astatine (Z=85) isotopes in the ISOLDE (CER...

A new PLC-based beam charge interlock system is under development for radiation safety and machine protection in the KEKB injector linac. This system restricts integrated amounts of beam charges passing through several locations along the linac before they are injected into four different storage rings (KEKB e + e -storage rings, PF, PF-AR). The beam charges are measured using wall current monitors and detection electronics controlled by PLCs. This system issues beam abort requests directly to the radiation safety control system through twisted hardwired cables when the integrated amounts of beam charges exceed the threshold level prescribed at each location. In this report, we describe the new design of the PLC-based beam charge interlock system, with particular focus on the development and performance of the PLC controls.

In this work the gamma-ray shielding efficiency of barium oxide (BaO)-doped borate-based glass systems with the composition [5SiO₂ – (84−x) B₂O₃ – 10Na₂O – 1Al₂O₃ – (x)BaO], where x = 0, 20, and 40 mol% is examined. The manufactured glass samples were subjected to gamma ray from standard 137Cs, 60Co, and 22Na point sources, with energy levels of 0.662, 1.173, 1.275, and 1.333 MeV, and were measured using a NaI (Tl) scintillation detector. Essential gamma shielding characteristics were evaluated, encompassing the linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), mass attenuation coefficient (MAC), half-value layer (HVL), tenth-value layer (TVL), mean free path (λ), and effective atomic number (Z_eff). Experimental results indicated that an increase in BaO concentration significantly enhanced density (from 2.23 to 4.89 g/cm³), hence improving gamma ray attenuation properties. The linear attenuation coefficients rose from 0.166 to 0.374 cm⁻¹ at 0.662 MeV and from 0.118 to 0.248 cm⁻¹ at 1.333 MeV for 0% and 40% BaO samples, respectively. The HVL diminished from 4.17 to 1.85 cm at 0.662 MeV as BaO content increased. These findings indicate that BaO significantly improves the shielding capability owing to its superior atomic number and density compared to B₂O₃. Furthermore, optical characterization demonstrated that augmenting BaO content consistently modified the glass structure, the 20% BaO sample exhibited the lowest optical band gap (3.46 eV) and the highest Urbach energy (0.45 eV), whereas the 40% BaO sample displayed enhanced transparency and the highest band gap (3.83 eV). These findings validate the dual function of BaO in improving both gamma attenuation and optical efficiency. The recorded values exhibited significant concordance with theoretical predictions generated by the Phy-X/PSD software. The findings validate the efficacy of barium oxide (BaO)-infused glass as a secure and effective substitute for traditional lead-based materials in gamma-ray shielding across medical, nuclear, and industrial applications.

The purpose of this publication is to offer general guidance to medical personnel in a hospital setting regarding the handling of patients with common injuries complicated by the presence of radioactive contamination and of patients who have been exposed to a high level of radiation.

This guide provides an overview of radiation, its basic effects on the body, the types of accidents that can produce contaminated and/or exposed patients, and an explanation of how accidents involving radiation differ from other Hazardous Materials incidents. Also included is a section that deals with the effects of exposure, contains information on etiology, clinical manifestations, and classifications of severe radiological injuries. The intent is to provide background information on the more serious aspects of radiation exposure, but not to be a definitive treatment guide or
replace expert technical advice. It also addresses the practical aspects of handling the contaminated and/or exposed patient in an emergency situation, including recommendations on the precautions that should be observed in treating such cases.

This paper describes work on a computer aided design and visualisation toolkit for the adaptation of homes and workplaces for disabled people. The basis for this work comes from a number of case studies which used a prototype planning tool based on ordinary 3D modelling and drawing packages. These case studies highlighted the need for a 3D object library containing office furniture, mobility aids, building construction elements and so forth. Three further prototype tools have also been developed: a userfriendly design and visualisation tool for non-computists based on a 3D graphics API; a mannequin modeller; and a VR based design and visualisation tool.

Tungsten-containing bismuth borate glass was made by melt quenching and its dosimetry and X/gamma protection properties were evaluated. The glass's formability was assessed using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The Makishima-Mackenzie approach was used to compute the mechanical properties of the prepared glass samples. As the tungsten trioxide (WO 3) concentration increases from 0 to 20 wt %, the prepared glass samples become denser (4.256 g cm-3 to 7.041 g cm-3). The values of Young's modulus (Y), bulk modulus (B), shear modulus (S), and longitudinal modulus (L) rose with increasing WO 3 content from 23.39 to 47.62 GPa, 12.92-37.94 GPa, 9.76-18.45 GPa, and 20.24-51.77 GPa, respectively. Additionally, the glass network's micro-hardness increased from 0.35 to 1.04 GPa while Poisson's ratio (σ) decreased from 0.436 to 0.408 as the content of WO 3 rose. In addition, the refractive index of the prepared glasses increase, while the energy band gap decreases with increasing WO 3 addition. Experimental measurements of γ-ray protection parameters were determined using radioactive sources and a NaI(TL) detector while the dosimetry parameters were simulated using MCNP code. The S5-sample showed the highest dosimetry parameters and X/γ-ray attenuation characteristics. Compared to other radiation shielding materials and newly investigated glasses, the prepared glass samples offer perfect X-ray safety and effective γ-ray shielding, making them suitable for nuclear shielding in various applications industrial, medicinal applications, and storage of nuclear waste.

The study focused on investigating the optical absorption properties of bismuth borate glass samples, including characteristics such as Urbach energy, steepness parameter, optical band gap, and refractive index. Bismuth borate glasses were made using the standard melting procedure, with separate doping of cobalt and copper. The optical absorption of the glass samples, both before and after being exposed to gamma-ray radiation, indicates that the doped transition metal ions exist in an octahedral state and function as modifiers by enhancing the level of disorder in the glass matrix where wavelengths of 297 nm and 390 nm, and another peak at 451 nm were detected for Cu + ions in the glass matrix beside two peaks at 540 nm and 720 nm which are attributed to cupreous ions with octahedral coordination. While wavelengths at 220, 348, and 465 nm were appeared in case of adding cobalt oxide, with the peak at 483 nm indicating an octahedral form of cobalt ions. The investigation of the impact of various gamma-ray dosages on the distinct characteristics of the manufactured glass samples has been examined. The samples exhibit slight variations in absorbance when exposed to varying levels of gammaray irradiation, indicating that these glasses are very suitable for immobilizing low levels of radiation. In addition, calculations were performed for the mean free path, effective atomic number, half-value layer, and radiation protection efficiency. The findings demonstrated that glass incorporating Cu exhibited the most effective shielding outcomes within the photon energy range of 1-10 MeV where the linear attenuation coefficient values increased from 0.319 cm 2 /g for a glass containing CoO to 0.344 cm 2 /g for a glass containing CuO at an energy of 1.333 MeV.

Abstract
Glass transition temperature (Tg) and crystallization temperature (Tc) of lead phosphate glasses doped with MoO3 have been investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Two temperatures between Tg and Tc were chosen (350 and 450 °C) for heat-treating glass samples. All samples give an amorphous behaviour even after heat treatment without any crystalline phase. Vibrations of the phosphate structural components shift towards greater wavenumbers as given by FTIR analysis, which is linked with the growth of nonbridging oxygens in the heat-treated samples but the sample containing 1 % molybdenum oxide (PM-1) gives a different trend. Energy gap values were observed to decrease from 4.073 to 2.758 eV by increasing molybdenum oxide concentration which makes the structure more open as given by density values. PM-1 heat-treated sample gives contrary behaviour where energy gap and density values increase. Shielding parameters have been considered by using Phy-X/PSD. 0.05922, 0.05919 and 0.05915 cm2/g are the mass attenuation coefficient values at 0.1173 MeV obtained for PM-0, PM-0.5 and PM-1 glasses, respectively that show a tiny decrease by increasing MoO3 content. The increase in the quantity of MoO3 in lead phosphate glasses decreases maintaining shielding measurements at an acceptable level while enhancing structural properties and lifespan.

This is a document obtained from the British Ministry of Defence showing whole body monitoring results for sailors on nuclear submarines indicated by whole body gamma monitoring. It is to be read with and adds to the recent paper "Cancer Risk on nuclear powered vessels and whole body monitoring results ofnuclear submarine crews" to be found on Academia.

Ovaj istraživački rad sintetizuje niz pitanja o upotrebi magnetnog filtera za vodu (pH 8.5, EC 450 µS/cm), biljnih čajeva (rastavić, peršun, celer, glog, zova) i statičkih magnetnih polja za podršku funkciji bubrega, krvotoka, smanjenja holesterola, zdravlja štitne žlezde i pluća. Rad se bavi pitanjima o nivoima Ddimera, viskoznosti krvi, hloru i fluoru u vodi za piće, te mogućnosti korišćenja neodimijumskih magneta (0.4 T) na radijalnoj arteriji za uticaj na protok krvi. Naučni dokazi su analizirani kako bi se procenila efikasnost i ograničenja ovih intervencija, uz praktične preporuke za primenu i buduća istraživanja.

Resumen: Objetivo: evaluar la evidencia reciente sobre la relación entre la exposición a radiación ionizante y las cataratas en personal de cardiología intervencionista. métodos: se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica de artículos científicos publicados en los últimos 10 años en las bases de datos Clinical Key, eBsCO, science Direct, LILACs y Pubmed de estudios observacionales analíticos que evaluaran la relación entre aparición de cataratas y exposición a radiación ionizante en personal de cardiología intervencionista. Resultados: A través de criterios de inclusión y exclusión se seleccionaron 6 artículos en total, sobre estudios que fueron realizados en personal de cardiología intervencionista laboralmente activos aplicando las escalas LOCs III y merriam-Fotch para calcular la opacidad corneal. se encontró que existe una relación estadísticamente significativa entre la exposición a radiación ionizante y el riesgo de padecer cataratas. CATARACTS AND EXPOSITION TO IONIZING RADIATION ...

The development of new, sophisticated Monte Carlo codes, and of tomographic or voxel-based human phantoms motivated the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) to call for a revision of traditional exposure models, which have been used in the past to calculate organ and tissue as well as effective dose coefficients for stylized MIRD5-type phantoms. This paper reports about calculations made with the recently developed tomographic MAX (Male Adult voXel) and FAX (Female Adult voXel) phantoms, as well as with the gender-specific MIRD5-type phantoms ADAM and EVA, coupled to the EGS4 and to the MCNP4C Monte Carlo code, for external whole-body irradiation with electrons. Effective doses for the tomographic and for the stylized exposure models will be compared separately as function of the replacement of the Monte Carlo code, of human tissue compositions, and of the stylized by the tomographic anatomy. The results indicate that for external exposures to electrons the introduction of voxel-based exposure models causes changes of the effective dose between +40% and -60% depending on the energies and geometries considered compared to corresponding data of the MIRD5-type phantoms.

The hematopoietic system is among the most radiosensitive systems in the human organism. Cellular responses to ionizing radiation, regardless of dose magnitude, share common regulatory mechanisms, particularly in the control of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress plays a critical role in cellular senescence and in the dysregulation of stem cell proliferative capacity. Exposure to high doses of ionizing radiation (≥ 1 Gy) leads to significant physiological consequences, with severity increasing proportionally with dose. Acute hematopoietic syndrome, a subsyndrome of acute radiation syndrome, typically manifests following exposure to doses between 2 and 6 Gy. Clinical symptoms emerge within hours postexposure, progressively exacerbating due to severe impairment of hematopoietic organs, vasculature, and bone marrow. Prompt diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are essential for mitigating disease progression and facilitating recovery. Conversely, prolonged exposure to low doses of ionizing radiation is associated with delayed stochastic effects, often manifesting long after initial exposure. Although these effects do not exhibit a direct dose-response relationship, the risk of long-term hematopoietic dysfunction increases with cumulative radiation dose. In all cases, ionizing radiation exposure necessitates comprehensive biodosimetric assessment, precise dose estimation, early diagnosis, and the implementation of effective therapeutic strategies. This review aims to examine systematically the comparative effects of highand low-dose ionizing radiation on the hematopoietic system, with a particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms influencing stem cell function and the potential clinical pathologies that may arise.

Radiation is the release of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles, and it is used for cancer treatment for therapeutic treatments like radiation therapy as well as diagnostic imaging methods like X-rays. However, the use of radiation in cancer hospitals presents an occupational hazard for medical workers who are exposed to it, necessitating rigorous adherence to safety procedures, suitable shielding, and monitoring to reduce the risk of radiation-related health impacts. This research analyzes the distribution of radiation exposure levels among Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital (BCH) personnel over a number of years. The data shows that the mean exposure levels in 2011 and 2012 were relatively low, with only one employee having a non-zero exposure value each year. The mean exposure levels fluctuated throughout the years but were largely within acceptable limits. However, an exception was found in 2022, where the maximum exposure value was substantially greater than in prev...

The personal dose equivalent, H p (d), is the quantity recommended by the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU) to be used as an approximation of the protection quantity Effective Dose when performing personal dosemeter calibrations. The personal dose equivalent can be defined for any location and depth within the body. Typically, the location of interest is the trunk where personal dosemeters are usually worn and in this instance a suitable approximation is a 30 cm X 30 cm X 15 cm slab-type phantom. For this

A 2019 analysis of epidemiological cancer data published by the USA Defence Protection Agency in 2014 showed that sailors on nuclear powered ships had a significant 9.2-fold excess cancer risk relative to US National (SEER) rates. This cannot be explained or predicted by the current radiation risk model which underpins legislation. A response to a Freedom of Information request made in connection with a UK appeal in a submariner cancer case revealed that whole body monitoring carried out on crews of British nuclear submarines from 1983 to 1992 revealed significant exposure to Cobalt-60, a neutron activation product found in and near nuclear reactors. Neutron leakages into the submarine environment suggest that Carbon-14 dioxide might also be a risk that has not been considered.

This scientific article investigates the CT-scan examination method for paranasal sinuses, an effective diagnostic modality for evaluating anatomy and soft tissue, including nasal polyps. This study aims to provide a qualitative and descriptive account of the CT-scan technique used on patients with a clinical history of nasal polyps at Primasatya Husada Citra Hospital, Surabaya.
The methodology employed was a descriptive qualitative study conducted through direct observation and a documentation study. The findings show that patient preparation, including the removal of metallic objects and the use of head immobilisation, successfully minimised motion artefacts. Optimised scanning parameters (120 kV, 90 mAs, a Window Width (WW) of 1400 HU, and a Window Level (WL) of 40 HU) were used to produce high-quality images. The images were reconstructed with a slice thickness of 3 mm in three main planes (axial, coronal, and sagittal) for comprehensive analysis. The radiologist's reading confirmed an accurate diagnosis of Paranasal Pansinusitis and a Polyp in the Left Nasal Cavity.
In conclusion, the CT-scan technique implemented aligns with standard protocols, providing reliable images for accurate clinical diagnosis.

Keywords: CT-Scan Technique, Paranasal Sinuses, Nasal Polyp, Radiology.

Mastoiditis, an infection of the mastoid air cells, is a common complication of otitis media, and High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) is the standard modality for its detailed assessment. This case report presents the findings in an 18-year-old male with suspected mastoiditis to demonstrate the pivotal role of multiplanar reconstruction in enhancing diagnostic accuracy. A non-contrast HRCT revealed opacification of the left mastoid air cells with a well-defined hypodense lesion measuring 2.21 × 1.53 × 0.80 cm, consistent with an abscess, based on 0.625 mm axial acquisitions reconstructed into 1 mm coronal images. The findings confirmed that coronal reconstruction plays a significant role in visualizing the vertical extent of the abscess and its relationship to adjacent cranial structures, such as the intact tegmen tympani, a detail less obvious on axial images alone. Thus, this case highlights that an optimized HRCT protocol integrating thin-slice axial acquisition with meticulous coronal reconstruction is essential for accurate diagnosis and management planning in mastoiditis with abscess.

Objectives The objectives are to investigate radiology practitioners' and radiographers' radiation dose awareness and use of referral guidelines for paediatric imaging examinations. Methods A prospective cross-sectional survey was conducted amongst radiology practitioners and radiographers working at a primary paediatric referral centre in Malta. Part of the survey asked participants to indicate the typical effective dose (ED) for several commonly performed paediatric imaging examinations, answer five true-false statements about radiation protection principles, and specify their use of referral guidelines for paediatric imaging. The return of 112 questionnaires provided a response rate of 66.7 %. Overall, imaging practitioners demonstrated poor awareness of radiation doses associated with several paediatric imaging examinations, with only 20 % providing the correct ED estimate for radiation-based examinations. Nearly all participants had undertaken radiation protection training, but the type and duration of training undertaken varied. When asked about the use of referral guidelines for paediatric imaging, 77.3 % claimed that they 'did not' or 'were not sure' if they made use of them. Conclusions Poor awareness of radiation doses associated with paediatric imaging examinations and the non-use of referral guidelines may impede imaging practitioners' role in the justification and optimisation of paediatric imaging examinations. Education and training activities to address such shortcomings are recommended. Key Points • Imaging practitioners demonstrated poor radiation dose awareness for 5 paediatric imaging examinations. • Most radiology practitioners and radiographers were 'not sure' or 'did not' use referral guidelines. • Imaging practitioners generally considered previously undertaken paediatric imaging examinations. • Some imaging practitioners had not undertaken training in radiation protection for 10 years. • Training activities to address imaging practitioners' poor radiation dose awareness are encouraged.

The object of this study was to compare organ dose and image quality effects of using bismuth and barium vinyl in-plane shields with standard and low tube current thoracic CT protocols. A RANDO phantom was scanned using a 64-slice CT scanner and three different thoracic protocols. Thermoluminescent dosemeters were positioned in six locations to record surface and absorbed breast and lung doses. Image quality was assessed quantitatively using region of interest measurements. Scanning was repeated using bismuth and barium vinyl in-plane shields to cover the breasts and the results were compared with standard and reduced dose protocols. Dose reductions were most evident in the breast, skin and anterior lung when shielding was used, with mean reductions of 34, 33 and 10 % for bismuth and 23, 18 and 11 % for barium, respectively. Bismuth was associated with significant increases in both noise and CT attenuation values for all the three protocols, especially anteriorly and centrally. Barium shielding had a reduced impact on image quality. Reducing the overall tube current reduced doses in all the locations by 20-27 % with similar increases in noise as shielding, without impacting on attenuation values. Reducing the overall tube current best optimises dose with minimal image quality impact. In-plane shields increase noise and attenuation values, while reducing anterior organ doses primarily. Shielding remains a useful optimisation tool in CT and barium is an effective alternative to bismuth especially when image quality is of concern.

Collective dose for cardio-angiography studies is the highest of all non-CT radiological investigations. Deterministic effects such as erythema, epilation and ulceration being reported on patients who have undergone these procedures emphasise the importance of optimising radiation dose, whilst not compromising diagnostic efficacy. This study investigated radiation doses delivered to patients for four common types of cardiac radiological examinations: coronary angiography (CA), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary angiograms (which were followed by an interventional procedure (CA-PCI)) and permanent pacemaker insertions (PPIs). 21 cardiac imaging suites participated in the study in 14 hospitals, representing 90% of relevant centres within Ireland. Radiation dose was monitored for 1804 adult patients using dose-area product meters. Operational and examination details, such as cardiologist grade, patient details, examination complexity and exposure factors, were recorded for each examination. Variation factors in dose between centres ranged from 2.7 to 11.1, but these factors were not higher than intrahospital variations previously recorded for other examinations within Ireland, such as chest X-ray. High-dose centres were often associated with long screening times, a high patient body mass index and complexity of the procedure. Preliminary dose reference levels (DRLs) were established using rounded third quartile values at 4200 cGy cm 2 , 8400 cGy cm 2 , 10 700 cGy cm 2 and 2100 cGy cm 2 for CA, PCI, CA-PCI and PPI, respectively. With these commonly performed relatively high-dose procedures, it is important that some guideline values are available to encourage optimised strategies. These proposed DRLs offer such guidance.

linical acceptance of coronary CT angiography (CTA) continues to increase. Two studies with results published in 2008 showed consistently high sensitivity and negative predictive value in the detection of obstructive coronary artery disease. Despite the rapidly evolving technology of coronary CTA and the increasing applications, radiation dose continues to be a concern . Depending on CT scanner capability and the protocol applied, total effective doses during coronary CTA vary from 2.1 to 21.4 mSv . These doses are among the highest delivered in diagnostic radiology and are of particular concern because three of the most ra-

Nuclear power plant safety performance indicators are developed "by nuclear operating organisations to monitor their own performance and progress, to set their own challenging goals for improvement, and to gain additional perspective on performance relative to that of other plants". In addition, performance indicators are widely used by regulatory authorities although the use is not harmonised. Two basic performance indicators related to good radiation protection practice are collective radiation exposure and volume of low-level radioactive waste. In 2000, Nuclear Power Plant Krsko, a Westinghouse pressurised water reactor with electrical output 700 MW, finished an extensive modernisation including the replacement of both steam generators. While the annual volume of low-level radioactive waste does not show a specific trend related to modernisation, the annual collective dose reached maximum, i.e. 2.60 man Sv, and dropped to 1.13 man Sv in 2001. During the replacement of t...

Fast spin-echo short inversion recovery sequences have been very useful for MR imaging-guided deep brain stimulation procedures in Parkinson disease. However, high-quality fast spin-echo imaging deposits significant heat, exceeding FDA-approved limits when patients already have undergone deep brain stimulation and need a second one or a routine brain MR imaging for neurologic indications. We have developed a STIR sequence with an ultra-low specific absorption rate that meets hardware limitations and produces adequate tissue contrast in cortical and subcortical brain tissues for deep brain stimulation recipients. Thirteen patients with medically refractory Parkinson disease who qualified for deep brain stimulation were imaged at 1.5T with a fast spin-echo short inversion recovery sequence modified to meet conditional MR imaging hardware and specific absorption rate restrictions. Tissue contrast-to-noise ratios and implant localization were objectively and subjectively compared by 2 neuroradiologists, and image quality for surgical planning was assessed by a neurosurgeon for high and low specific absorption rate images. The mean contrast-to-noise ratio for cerebral tissues without including the contrast-to-noise ratio for ventricular fluid was 35 and 31 for high and low specific absorption rate images. Subjective ratings for low specific absorption rate tissue contrast in 77% of patients were identical to (and in a few cases higher than) those of high specific absorption rate contrast, while the neurosurgical coordinates for fusing the stereotactic atlas with low specific absorption rate MR imaging were equivalent to those of the high specific absorption rate for 69% of patients. Patients with Parkinson disease who have already had a deep brain stimulation face a risk of neural injury if routine, high specific absorption rate MR imaging is performed. Our modified fast spin-echo short inversion recovery sequence conforms to very conservative radiofrequency safety limits, while it maintains high tissue contrast for presurgical planning, postsurgical assessment, and radiologic evaluations with greater confidence for radiofrequency safety.

To evaluate the knowledge of CT technologists about radiation protection as well as CT parameters and their impact on image quality and patient dose. This cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study was performed in 11 government hospitals from different cities, Libya, was conducted between April and September 2025, using a valid and reliable online questionnaire consisting of 18 questions assigned to 150 CT technologist. Each questionnaire contained demographic characteristics along with CT parameters including mAs, pitch, scan time, automatic tube current modulation, image construction technique and effects of these parameters on image quality and radiation dose. There were statistically significant differences in the level of knowledge among CT technologists regarding radiation protection and specialized training, with 73% reporting that they had not received any training in this regard. As for knowledge of the device's parameters and their relationship to image quality and patient dose, 74% of them reported that they had not received any training on this subject, and the results shows a significant difference in the mean mAs (1.09±0.288, P<0.005), pitch(1.21±0.409, P<0.005), ATCM (1.39±0.490,P<0.05)and image reconstruction(1.15±0.339, P<0.005). The overall familiarity of CT technologists about radiation protection and scan parameters which affecting image quality, dose or both was found insufficient. In this case, retraining update courses should be offered frequently to augment and refresh the knowledge of technologists. which can contribute to reducing exposure for patients, CT staff and community at the same time.

Introduction: In the context of free movement, EU-citizens need assurance that dental practitioners providing their care have a degree/license to practice that meets EU-standards and that they maintain their knowledge and skills through ongoing education. Aim: One aim of the 'DentCPD' project (HYPERLINK '' www. dentcpd.org) was to identify and agree essential CPD requirements for EU dentists. This paper reports the consensus process and outcomes. Methods: Agreement on core components of CPD was achieved through a three stage process: an online survey of dental educators' (n = 143) views on compulsory topics; a paper-based questionnaire to practitioners (n = 411); leading to a proposal discussed at the Association for Dental Education (ADEE) 2011 Lifelong Learning special interest group (SIG). Results: From the online survey and practitioner questionnaire, high levels of agreement were achieved for medical emergencies (89%), infection control (79%) and the medically compromised patient (71%). The SIG (34 attendees from 16 countries) concluded that these three CPD topics plus radiation protection should be core-compulsory and three CPD topics should be core-recommended (health and safety, pain management, and safeguarding children & vulnerable adults). They also agreed that the teaching of all topics should be underpinned by evidence-based dentistry. Building four core topics into CPD requirements and making qualityapproved education and training available will ensure that all dentists have up-to-date knowledge and skills in topic areas of direct relevance to patient safety. In turn, this will contribute to patients having access to comparably high standards of oral health care across Europe.

L’objectif de cette étude était de mesurer le niveau de connaissances en radioprotection des travailleurs exposés aux rayonnements ionisants en milieu médical en Afrique francophone sub-saharienne. Une étude transversale sous forme de questionnaire a été réalisée à Cotonou en mai 2019 durant les Journées de radiologie d’Afrique noire francophone (JRANF). Les connaissances ont été évaluées sur les sources des rayonnements ionisants (RI), les principes élémentaires de la radioprotection, les effets biologiques des RI, les effets pathologiques des RI, les grandeurs et unités en radioprotection, la radioprotection des patients, la grossesse et l’exposition médicale aux RI. Le score global des connaissances (SGC) a été calculé à partir du nombre de bonnes réponses aux questions (n = 20) et classé en « Bon », « Moyen » ou « Mauvais ». La relation entre la qualification professionnelle des travailleurs et leurs connaissances en radioprotection a été analysée. La population d’étude était co...

Abstract: Melasma is a hyperpigmentation disorder that mainly affects women. Factors such as chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation, visible light, hormonal stimulation and genetic factors have been identified in its pathogenesis. It is characterized by reticulated, irregular, brown spots on areas of the skin exposed to the sun. The methodology used was a literature review with an exploratory qualitative approach, using academic platforms and bibliographies: SCIELO, PUB MED and GOOGLE ACADEMICO. The inclusion criteria were articles from recent years in Portuguese and English. The correct use of sunscreens can prevent the appearance of melasma, which in turn prevents skin cancer. Sunscreen helps block solar radiation, preventing dischromic spots that ultraviolet rays cause on the skin, and there are different factors for each skin type; always reapply every two hours and it is important to know that the use of sunscreen begins in childhood, as damage accumulates on the skin, causing complications in adulthood, such as skin cancer. It can be concluded that the use of accessories such as hats, umbrellas and sunscreens help prevent dyschromia.
Keywords: Melasma. Hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen.

Evidence from anomalous Uranium isotope ratios in soil and other materials near the sites of Israeli bomb and missile attacks have been reported since 2006, leading to speculation about the nature of the weapon technology employed. Specifically, it has been suggested that a new weapon employing some kind of Uranium/ Deuterium cold fusion process results in a low energy yield neutron- producing detonation, and that this results in the production of the enriched Uranium residues found in surveys.
We report measurements made on surface samples collected from the site in Beirut of the Israeli strike which killed Hassan Nasrallah on 27th September 2024. Results showed highly significant anomalous variation in Lead, Mercury and Cadmium isotope ratios, consistent with neutron activation. We conclude the site was exposed to significant neutron exposure from the weapon used.

AIM: The aim of this work was to examin the diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for the abdomen-pelvis computed tomography (CT) examinations performed at our medical institution. Another aim was to compare our data with the national and international values for the same examination as starting point on the way of establishing a regional DRLs and to contribute to the national DRLs project. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dosimetric indexes were collected for the abdominal pelvic examination for 180 patients and results are analysed using Matlab (R2016b) statistics and machine learning toolbox. RESULTS: The results are within and below the international reported levels for abdomen-pelvis CT in several countries and slightly higher than our published national reference level. CONCLUSION: Continuous monitoring of the radiation doses received by the patients in computed tomography is continuous and ongoing process in order to ensure compliance and to optimize clinical imaging protocols. More exten...