A study of detection of environmental radiation in the inner of an office is presented and a comparison of the results is made when the facilities are closed or aired. The used method is based on radiation detection by means of Geiger-Mueller RM 60 and RM 70 detectors with the aid of a personal computer which provides a detection method of radiation in real time. The used method in this study is suggested to detect the variation of radiation in closed or aired environments and as a surveillance system of radiation levels. The obtained results are discussed and they are compared with those obtained in another places. (Author)

A system in one embodiment includes a source for directing a beam of radiation at a sample; a multilayer mirror having a face oriented at an angle of less than 90 degrees from an axis of the beam from the source, the mirror reflecting at least a portion of the radiation after the beam encounters a sample; and a pixellated detector for detecting radiation reflected by the mirror. A method in a further embodiment includes directing a beam of radiation at a sample; reflecting at least some of the radiation diffracted by the sample; not reflecting at least a majority of the radiation that is not diffracted by the sample; and detecting at least some of the reflected radiation. A method in yet another embodiment includes directing a beam of radiation at a sample; reflecting at least some of the radiation diffracted by the sample using a multilayer mirror; and detecting at least some of the reflected radiation.

The outlooks for detection of neutrons using thermoluminescent (TL) photon radiation detectors type TLD-500K based on anion-defective corundum have been analyzed. The detection method uses transformation of neutron radiation into gamma radiation arising when neutrons are captured by cadmium nuclei. The comparative analysis of the data obtained with TL detectors and results of radiometric measurements suggests applicability of this method. A sensor with an optimal embodiment providing a relatively high sensitivity has been developed.

Disclosed herein are portable and modular detection devices and systems for detecting electromagnetic radiation, such as fluorescence, from an analyte which comprises at least one optical element removably attached to at least one alignment rail. Also disclosed are modular detection devices and systems having an integrated lock-in amplifier and spatial filter and assay methods using the portable and modular detection devices.

A system for indirectly detecting a radiation source by directly detecting radiolytic products. The radiation source emits radiation and the radiation produces the radiolytic products. A fluid is positioned to receive the radiation from the radiation source. When the fluid is irradiated, radiolytic products are produced. By directly detecting the radiolytic products, the radiation source is detected.

We propose a method for evaluating the transport scattering coefficient of a randomly inhomogeneous medium, which is based on a correlation analysis of the intensity of laser radiation backscattered from the moving medium. The method employs a localized source of radiation (laser beam focused on the surface of medium) and makes use of the spatial filtration of detected scattered radiation in the image plane of the optical system with the aid of a programmed ring filter.

The use of 3D radiative calculations for the development of cloud detection scheme from IR ... of methods and algorithms of cloudiness parameters identification ..... synchronous and merged NAST-I data and MAMS imagery. The area of ...

Method for checking of the hidden boundary coal-rock providing for irradiation of the checked medium by a gamma radiation source and sensing by a detector of the reflected radiation affected at a distance from the surface of the checked medium and at a distance from the radiation source. Two reflected radiation detection zones differently distanced from the radiation source are formed on the detector so that the intensity of the radiation detected at the zone nearest to the source decreases with an increase in the distance from the detector to the checked medium, and that detected at the zone distant from the source - increases. The intensities of the reflected radiation detected at the two zones are added so as to obtain the total intensity which is invariant to the change of the distance from the detector to the checked medium. A pick-up for implementation of the method comprises a casing containing, inside it, the gamma radiation source and the detector of the reflected radiation protected with a screen provided with openings differently distanced from the source. The surface of the opening the most distanced from the source is bigger than that of the closest opening, whereas the distance from the source to the detector does not exceed a preset maximum distance from the detector to the checked medium. Such a device relates to the automatic steering of coal-winning machines.

Distillation column is important unit in petro-chemical industries, and its on-line diagnose is important. To get density profile measured by the radiation transmitted through column is well method for on-line diagnose to find out missing tray or flooding. In many cases the distance from radiation detector to detection circuit is up to 100m long. Conventional radiation detection method that is to transmit analog signal by co axial cable directly to detection circuit couldn't give good result because of its long cable. In this case the system is sensitive to electric noise because of long cable and interface between the radiation circuit and the controller for mechanical system. The radiation detection system introduced here is using digital modulated signal and loop coil to transmit signal instead of slip ring and analog signal. In detail detection part of automatic gamma scanner consists of high voltage circuit, PHA circuit FSK modem and battery. This method isolates power system and gives good solution for automatic gamma scanning by isolating the controlling circuit of mechanical system from radiation detecting circuit which is sensitive to noise.

Calibration of instruments used to detect and measure ionizing radiation has been conducted over the last 20 years at Brookhaven National Laboratory`s (BNL) Radiation Calibration Facility, Building 348. Growth of research facilities, projects in progress, and more stringent Department of Energy (DOE) orders which involve exposure to nuclear radiation have placed substantial burdens on the existing radiation calibration facility. The facility currently does not meet the requirements of DOE Order 5480.4 or American National Standards Institute (ANSI) N323-1978, which establish calibration methods for portable radiation protection instruments used in the detection and measurement of levels of ionizing radiation fields or levels of radioactive surface contaminations. Failure to comply with this standard could mean instrumentation is not being calibrated to necessary levels of sensitivity. The Laboratory has also recently obtained a new neutron source and gamma beam irradiator which can not be made operational at existing facilities because of geometry and shielding inadequacies. These sources are needed to perform routine periodic calibrations of radiation detecting instruments used by scientific and technical personnel and to meet BNL`s substantial increase in demand for radiation monitoring capabilities. To place these new sources into operation, it is proposed to construct an addition to the existing radiation calibration facility that would house all calibration sources and bring BNL calibration activities into compliance with DOE and ANSI standards. The purpose of this assessment is to identify potential significant environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation of an improved radiation calibration facility at BNL.

From the previous project on high-speed autoanalyzing system for radiation-induced chromosome aberrations, it became possible to easily and certainly identify a centromere by fluorescence staining according to FISH method using a probe with the consensus sequence to {alpha}-satellite DNA. However, this method was thought to be unappropriate for the analysis of dicentric chromosomes because the amount of the satellite DNA on the centromeres was in a wide range, 1-4%. Therefore, development of the detection method for radiation-induced mutation using a new fluorescent material was attempted in this study. First, a detection method using PCR for different genes was developed and a new method for purification of genome DNA from culture cells only with heat treatment was established. Then, real-time detection of genome DNA damaged by radiation was attempted. (M.N.)

The analysis of the infrared radiation characteristics of high-temperature free-stream flow including particles is very significant for the field of target detection, combustion diagnosis and temperature measurement of flame. In this paper, the infrared radiation characteristics of high-temperature free-stream flow are calculated and analyzed using the backward Monte Carlo method, considering the effect of the directional radiation heat flux due to the particle scattering and the different boundary conditions. The calculation results of emitting, absorbing and anisotropically scattering media are compared with the forward Monte Carlo and finite-volume methods results, which shows the superiority on computational efficiency with the backward Monte Carlo method.

Radiation doses of 20, 50 or 100 Gy caused the same time related decrease for RNA and proteoglycan (PG) synthesis in embryonic cartilage in vitro (4 days culture). In this paper, participation of lysosomes in this radiation response is investigated. Therefore, we employ a cytochemical method using beta-glycerophosphate as substrate for acid phosphatase (AP) detection. Increase of AP was found 2 days after irradiation and increased during the whole culture period. The increase was more pronounced with a higher radiation dose. Stimulation of AP activity explains the observed radiation response of RNA and PG synthesis.

Laser photothermal methods of standoff detection of trace explosive residues on surfaces are considered. The analysis is restricted to the most promising methods: photoacoustic spectroscopy, deflection spectroscopy, and IR photothermal imaging of objects under resonant irradiation. Particular attention is paid to the choice of radiation sources and detectors. Comparative analysis of the existing standoff detection methods for explosive particles on the object surface is performed. Prospects of laser photothermal spectroscopy in this field are discussed. (review)

The Nuclear Detection Figure Of Merit (NDFOM) portal is a database of objects and algorithms for evaluating the performance of radiation detectors to detect nuclear material. This paper describes the algorithms used to model the physics and mathematics of radiation detection. As a first-principles end-to-end analysis system, it starts with the representation of the gamma and neutron spectral fluxes, which are computed with the particle and radiation transport code MCNPX. The gamma spectra emitted by uranium, plutonium, and several other materials of interest are described. The impact of shielding and other intervening material is computed by the method of build-up factors. The interaction of radiation with the detector material is computed by a detector response function approach. The construction of detector response function matrices based on MCNPX simulation runs is described in detail. Neutron fluxes are represented in a three group formulation to treat differences in detector sensitivities to thermal, epithermal, and fast neutrons.

In the past twenty years or so, there have been significant changes in the strategy and applications for homeland security. Recently there have been significant at deterring and interdicting terrorists and associated organizations. This is a shift in the normal paradigm of deterrence and surveillance of a nation and the `conventional' methods of warfare to the `unconventional' means that terrorist organizations resort to. With that shift comes the responsibility to monitor international borders for weapons of mass destruction, including radiological weapons. As a result, countries around the world are deploying radiation detection instrumentation to interdict the illegal shipment of radioactive material crossing international borders. These efforts include deployments at land, rail, air, and sea ports of entry in the US and in European and Asian countries. Radioactive signatures of concern include radiation dispersal devices (RDD), nuclear warheads, and special nuclear material (SNM). Radiation portal monitors (RPMs) are used as the main screening tool for vehicles and cargo at borders, supplemented by handheld detectors, personal radiation detectors, and x-ray imaging systems. This talk will present an overview of radiation detection equipment with emphasis on radiation portal monitors. In the US, the deployment of radiation detection equipment is being coordinated by the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office within the Department of Homeland Security, and a brief summary of the program will be covered. Challenges with current generation systems will be discussed as well as areas of investigation and opportunities for improvements. The next generation of radiation portal monitors is being produced under the Advanced Spectroscopic Portal program and will be available for deployment in the near future. Additional technologies, from commercially available to experimental, that provide additional information for radiation screening, such as density imaging equipment, will be reviewed. Opportunities for further research and development to improve the current equipment and methodologies for radiation detection for the important task of homeland security will be the final topic to be discussed.

We consider a method that uses multiple photon-scatter and photon-induced positron annihilation radiation (PIPAR) responses in a template-matching procedure to assist in rapid standoff detection of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The procedure is shown in a simulation study to be able to distinguish an explosive surrogate (fertilizer) from several inert materials, and thus the method may prove useful as part of a multidimensional approach in detecting hidden chemical explosives.

Abstract We report on a method for fast detection of defect rich areas in multicrystalline silicon solar wafers. It is based on photoluminescence imaging of the whole wafers and detects both the band-to-band radiation as well as the dislocation specific radiation D1. To illustrate the capabilities of the method we examined 5.0 5.0 cm2 wafer pieces in different stages of their processing. The achieved resolution of the D1 images was -120 m, within a total recording time of 550 ms.

A radiation detection method and system for continuously correcting the quantization of detected charge during pulse pile-up conditions. Charge pulses from a radiation detector responsive to the energy of detected radiation events are converted to voltage pulses of predetermined shape whose peak amplitudes are proportional to the quantity of charge of each corresponding detected event by means of a charge-sensitive preamplifier. These peak amplitudes are sampled and stored sequentially in accordance with their respective times of occurrence. Based on the stored peak amplitudes and times of occurrence, a correction factor is generated which represents the fraction of a previous pulses influence on a preceding pulse peak amplitude. This correction factor is subtracted from the following pulse amplitude in a summing amplifier whose output then represents the corrected charge quantity measurement.

Industrial column is one of the most important units in petrochemical industry and on-line diagnosis on it offers valuable information for the effective maintenance and the optimal operation. Vertical density profile which can be obtained from the measurement of the transmitted gamma radiation can reveal the critical clue for the on-line diagnosis. The radiation measurement result is transmitted as an analog signal through co-axial cable 100m long to data processing unit in the conventional method. The measurement is readily affected by electric noise in this method because of the long co-axial cable and the interface between the radiation circuit and the controller for mechanical operation. The radiation detection system introduced here was designed to generate digital modulated signal by internal power supply system and signal processing circuits. The signal is sent by FSK MODEM installed inside the radiation detection system and transmitted to the data acquisition system through a loop coil which makes no physical contact between rotating part and stationery part of the column scanner. This self-powered detection system gives good solution for automatic gamma scanner by isolating the controlling circuit of mechanical system from radiation detecting circuit which is extremely sensitive to surrounding electrical noise.

It is shown that peaks formed in gamma -ray spectra by summing the pulses due to gamma cascades can be used to determine both the activity of the radiation source and the efficiency of detecting the gamma rays. Possible sources of errors in determining these quantities were investigated. This method may be used to measure the cross sections of nuclear reactions, to analyze the background radiation when searching for rare decays, and in other applications.

We performed work in three areas: radiation detection, external and internal radiation dosimetry. In radiation detection we developed Bayesian techniques to estimate the net activity of high and low activity radioactive samples. These techniques have the advantage that the remaining uncertainty about the net activity is described by probability densities. Graphs of the densities show the uncertainty in pictorial form. Figure 1 below demonstrates this point. We applied stochastic processes for a method to obtain Bayesian estimates of 222Rn-daughter products from observed counting rates. In external radiation dosimetry we studied and developed Bayesian methods to estimate radiation doses to an individual with radiation induced chromosome aberrations. We analyzed chromosome aberrations after exposure to gammas and neutrons and developed a method for dose-estimation after criticality accidents. The research in internal radiation dosimetry focused on parameter estimation for compartmental models from observed compartmental activities. From the estimated probability densities of the model parameters we were able to derive the densities for compartmental activities for a two compartment catenary model at different times. We also calculated the average activities and their standard deviation for a simple two compartment model.

Irradiation causes specific MRI changes in anatomic morphology and signal intensity. To avoid misinterpretation, it is important to consider the potential radiation changes of normal tissue in MRI. The aim of this study was to describe the detected radiation effects on normal cervical tissues in MRI. Pretreatment and posttreatment MRI of 52 patients with primary neck tumors were evaluated retrospectively. The MR imaging was performed before initiating radiotherapy and at the end of the treatment period. Patients underwent follow-up studies within 24 months after the end of irradiation. Edema was the main radiation-induced effect. It was detected in the epiglottis, larynx, pharynx wall, retro- and parapharyngeal space, salivary glands, muscles, and subcutaneous tissue. In some cases the bone marrow of the mandible showed edema, due to osteonecrosis. We additionally detected fluid accumulation in the mastoid cells. Radiation caused volume reduction of the parotid gland, thickening of the pharynx wall, and fatty degeneration of bone marrow. Magnetic resonance imaging is an excellent method of depicting radiation-induced changes of normal tissue. Especially T2-weighted sequences allow the detection of even slight edema. It is important to be aware of the most common radiation-induced changes in MRI and to take them into account when assessing an examination. (orig.)

An investigation was made of the influence of temperature and of the frequency of the exciting radiation on the fluorescence of molecular 129I vapour excited by 633 nm He—Ne laser radiation. Heating of the iodine vapour and a shift of the exciting radiation frequency by 2 GHz toward shorter wavelengths, relative to the centre of the 20Ne gain profile, enhanced by almost an order of magnitude the sensitivity of detection of 129I by the laser-induced fluorescence method. The main contribution to the fluorescence signal came from the 6-3 P(33) absorption line.

The exposure of waters to ionizing radiation from radionuclides imprisoned in dumped nuclear waste containers, freed in nuclear submarine accidents or released in underwater magma eruptions are difficult to be evaluated by conventional radiometric methods. Ionizing radiation evokes stable paramagnetic centers in crystalline lattice of mineral components in bone skeletons of mammals and fishes as well as in exoskeletons of mollusca. They give rise in e.p.r. to specific, extremely stable signals which are proposed to be applied as indicators of radiation exposure levels. In the present study the e.p.r. detection limits of the dose of ionizing radiation absorbed in shells of fresh water and marine mollusca (selected species) have been estimated. It has been found that with fresh water mollusca the dose of 1-2 Gy can be detected, while the sea water mollusca by one order of magnitude lower, i.e. about 0.1 Gy. (author).

Background? A better knowledge of the dynamic biological changes that the skin undergoes in response to ionizing radiation is advisable to improve the management of radiation dermatitis, allowing selection of patients needing treatment or close monitoring. Objective? To describe the evolution of the skin in response to ionizing radiation through the reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) features of acute radiation dermatitis. Methods? In this prospective descriptive study, six women (median age, 55?years; range, 45-80?years) diagnosed with breast cancer in stages IA-IB undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy were included in the study through consecutive sampling. Clinical, dermoscopic and RCM evaluation of the skin were performed prior to treatment and on days 1, 15, 30 and 45 after radiotherapy. Results? While clinical features of radiation dermatitis emerged after 30?days on average, histopathological changes were detectable by RCM after a mean time of 15?days. The main RCM features included initial appearance of spongiosis, exocytosis and inflammatory cells followed by the presence of dendritic-shaped cells, 'streaming-like figures', 'broken geographic papillae', epidermal architectural disarray, effacement of rete ridges, melanophages and, finally, hyperpigmentation of the basal layer. Conclusions? RCM may safely detect the dynamic biological changes that the skin undergoes in response to ionizing radiation, even before than clinical onset of acute radiation dermatitis. Therefore, RCM may be useful to make an early and non-invasive diagnosis of radiation dermatitis during radiotherapy, allowing an early selection of patients needing treatment or close monitoring and avoiding skin biopsies. PMID:22882643

A new method for detecting radium isotopes was worked out at the All-Union Scientific-Research Institute of Mineral Resources. It does not require the preliminary chemical preparation of the test samples because it is based on selection of time emissions of nuclear irradiation. One records the mother and daughter particles emitted by a probe at a specific chronometric interval. It then becomes possible to detect the radiation from the given pair of radionuclides. One can then estimate, for example, the amount of equilibrant /sup 226/Ra in the test sample from the intensity of radiation.

Two major questions regarding irradiation that are raised today are: (1) Which sources should be used for irradiating food and (2) How can irradiated foods be identified This article considers both questions. After briefly mentioning a few of the historical stepping stones in the development of radiation sources, present and future radiation sources are discussed. Next the changes in foods caused by irradiation are considered. These changes are extremely small-so minor in fact that it is difficult to detect if the food has been irradiated. Still, these are several detection methods available, and this article describes them.

By virtue of the optical reciprocity theorem, Bragg-case Kossel diffraction in perfect crystals can be viewed as the reverse process of x-ray standing waves (XSW) in the sense that the location of the source of radiation and the point of detection are merely interchanged between the two. A method ca...

We present a method for the detection of charged particles. emitted following beta decay, that allows to reduce the background due to beta radiation and thus to facilitate separation of the delayed-particle events, The isotopes of interest are implanted into a highly segmented double-sided silicon s...

Material that does not come out of a process as product or waste is called holdup. When this is fissile material, its location and quantity must be determined to improve safeguards and security as well as safety at the facility. The most common method for detecting and measuring holdup is with radiation based techniques. When using them, one must consider equipment geometry, geometry of holdup, and effects of background radiation when converting the radiation measurement into a fissile material quantity. We are developing complementary techniques that use tiny acoustic transducers, which are unaffected by background radiation, to improve holdup measurements by aiding in determining the above conversion factors for holdup measurements. Thus far, we have applied three techniques, Acoustic Interferometry, Pulse Echo, and bending Wave Propagation, of which the latter appears most effective. This paper will describe each of these techniques and show how they may ultimately reduce costs and personnel radiation exposure while increasing confidence I and accuracy of holdup measurements.

For use with the high-power YAG laser welding using optical fiber, the authors developed an in-process monitoring technique which detected the radiation intensity change of the special wavelengths from the area being welded using monitoring fibers. The decrease in welding power and the damages to optical systems could be detected with this method. We had applied this monitoring technique to the repair welding of steam generator tubes in actual nuclear power plants. (author).

Aspects of the application of synchrotron radiation to trace element determinations by x-ray fluorescence have been investigated using beams from the Cornell facility, CHESS. Fluoresced x rays were detected with a Si(Li) detector placed 4 cm from the target at 90/sup 0/ to the beam. Thick samples of NBS Standard Reference Materials were used to calibrate trace element sensitivity and estimate minimum detectable limits for this method.

With increasing use of high energy accelerator, the detection of secondary produced high energy neutrons having strong penetrability becomes more and more important for radiation shielding and safety. But, there has been no available neutron spectrometer to detect neutrons of energies higher than about 100 MeV, except the TOF (Time of Flight) method which can only be used in the limited field. We therefore developed a self-TOF detector to obtain neutron spectrum of energy above 100 MeV. (author)

Thermo luminescence (TL) method, one of detection method of irradiated food, was applied to black pepper. The inorganic substances such as dust, sand and soil adhered to food can capture irradiation energy and emit it by heat as luminescence. Black pepper of Turkey and Malaysia were irradiated 0.5-10KGy dose from {sup 60}Co radiation source. Although different TL emission curves were observed by the place of production and the particle size of inorganic substance adhered, the strength of emission was constant for a long time. The results proved that this method was a good detection method for irradiated food adhered inorganic substances. (S.Y.)

The dating with electron spin resonance has been developed. The radiation damage caused in materials due to natural radiation can be detected by the electron spin resonance method. The signal intensity gives information concerning the total radiation exposure dose. The age can be given from the evaluation of the dose rate of natural radiation for a year. The upper limit of age measurable by the ESR reaches to about 1 x 10/sup 7/ years. This method can be applied to biological samples as well as minerals. The age of stalactite, coral reef, and fossils have been measured. The time of fault formation may be estimated by measuring the age of the minerals in faults.

Today's security threats are being met with 30-year old radiation technology. Discovery of new radiation detection materials is currently a slow and Edisonian process. With heightened concerns over nuclear proliferation, terrorism and unconventional warfare, an alternative strategy for identification and development of potential radiation detection materials must be adopted. Through the Radiation Detection Materials Discovery Initiative, PNNL focuses on the science-based discovery of next generation materials for radiation detection by addressing three ``grand challenges'': fundamental understanding of radiation detection, identification of new materials, and accelerating the discovery process. The new initiative has eight projects addressing these challenges, which will be described, including early work, paths forward and the opportunities for collaboration.

16OlO A photon-activation method capable of recognizing 1 ppm of oxygen or carbon in beryllium when other impurities are negligible is described. Experimental results are consistent with calculations from theoretical considerations and chemical analysis. ( A.C.) l6Oll Applications of the paramagnetic resonance method to radiation research are discussed. Results are reported from applications of the method in studies on radiation effects on methanol and ethanol. The theory of the paramagnetic resonance phenomena and the thermal relaxation process is discussed. Paramagnetic resonance spectrometers are described. The consequences of the electron possessing orbital angular momentum, the hyperfine interaction, and the potentiality of making quantitative assays are considered. The method is said to be applicable as a means of detecting any type of unpaired electron system. Those of greatest interest in radiation resesrch are free radicals and atoms. 14 references. (C.H.)

Because the efficiency of THz generation in air plasma is quite low, the residual power of input beam after THz radiation is generated in air plasma remains almost the same. A new method, multiple air plasmas, is proposed. The residual power can be used to induce other air plasmas and generate THz radiation again. The multiple air plasmas method provides a potential way for the development of the intense THz source. The preliminary experimental results confirm the theoretical prediction. The multiple air plasmas generated THz can be very useful for remote THz generation and standoff detection.

A method for the conversion of Compton camera data into a 2D image of the incident-radiation flux on the celestial sphere includes detecting coincident gamma radiation flux arriving from various directions of a 2-sphere. These events are mapped by back-projection onto the 2-sphere to produce a convolution integral that is subsequently stereographically projected onto a 2-plane to produce a second convolution integral which is deconvolved by the Fourier method to produce an image that is then projected onto the 2-sphere.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducted field radiological measurements at two port locations at the request of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The radiological measurements were performed on five radiation detection systems at the port of Darrow, Louisiana and three systems at the port of Charleston, South Carolina. Darrow was visited on January 20-23, 2004 and Charleston on May 25, 2004. All tested systems are designed to detect radioactive material that might be present in scrap metals as the scrap is being unloaded from ships. All eight systems are commercially known as the Cricket and manufactured by RAD/COMM Systems. Each radiation detection system consists of a detector with two channels and a wireless transmitter, both mounted on the grapple, and a controller located in the crane cab. The cranes at both locations are operated by the Cooper T. Smith Company. The purpose of the radiological measurements was to evaluate the performance of the radiation detection systems in terms of their ability to detect elevated radiation levels, and to develop a routine testing method for all EPA Cricket systems.

This report provides supplementary information to the series and shot volumes. The information includes a glossary; list of acronyms; explanations of radiation health concepts, radiation measurement, radiation detection, radiation protection, and radiation standards; and a list of data and document sources.

A network of radiation detection instruments, each having a small solid state radiation sensor module integrated into a cellular phone for providing radiation detection data and analysis directly to a user. The sensor module includes a solid-state crystal bonded to an ASIC readout providing a low cost, low power, light weight compact instrument to detect and measure radiation energies in the local ambient radiation field. In particular, the photon energy, time of event, and location of the detection instrument at the time of detection is recorded for real time transmission to a central data collection/analysis system. The collected data from the entire network of radiation detection instruments are combined by intelligent correlation/analysis algorithms which map the background radiation and detect, identify and track radiation anomalies in the region.

A network of radiation detection instruments, each having a small solid state radiation sensor module integrated into a cellular phone for providing radiation detection data and analysis directly to a user. The sensor module includes a solid-state crystal bonded to an ASIC readout providing a low cost, low power, light weight compact instrument to detect and measure radiation energies in the local ambient radiation field. In particular, the photon energy, time of event, and location of the detection instrument at the time of detection is recorded for real time transmission to a central data collection/analysis system. The collected data from the entire network of radiation detection instruments are combined by intelligent correlation/analysis algorithms which map the background radiation and detect, identify and track radiation anomalies in the region.

In this paper, we present recent progress in the development of hydrophobic silica aerogel as a Cherenkov radiator. In addition to the conventional method, the recently developed pin-drying method for producing high-refractive-index aerogels with high transparency was studied in detail. Optical qualities and large tile handling for crack-free aerogels were investigated. Sufficient photons were detected from high-performance aerogels in a beam test.

In the present work, spatial character of emission spectrum was analyzed, the effect of laser energy and samples at tribute on the best detection position for the highest signal-to-noise ratio was studied, and some experimental investigations with LIBS technique to detect trace Cu in polluted soil were carried out in our laboratory. A Q-switched Nd : YAG laser operating at 1 064 nm with pulse width of 10 ns and repetition frequency of 1 Hz was utilized. The laser pulse was focused by lens with focal length of 10 cm to generate microplasmas on the surface of printed circuit board and soil samples. The sample was adjustable by vernier construction to detect the emission spectrum of the microplasmas from different position. Experiments showed that the intensity of thermal radiation and atomic radiations evolved differently while the detection position changed. It was verified that thermal radiation reduced rapidly with the distance from the center of spark increasing, while the intensity of atomic radiations increased firstly and decreased after intensity maximum was reached. The method of separating thermal radiation and atomic radiations in space brought on high signal-to-noise ratio. It was found that the best detection position was 0.75 mm off the center of the spark for soil sample while the laser energy was 40 mJ, and the distance increased with the growth of laser energy. With Cu 324.75 nm and Cu 327.39 nm as the analysis lines, the best detection position was selected to detect trace Cu pollution in soil. Internal standard method was used to determine the relation between Cu concentration and its intensity. It was concluded that the detection limit of Cu in soil was 67 mg x kg(-1), which is below the trace element thresholds for Class 2 soil defined in the Environmental Quality Standard for Soil in China. It was proven an effective way to achieve higher signal-to-noise ratio by adjusting the location of spectral measurements. This method was viable for trace Cu detection in polluted soil. PMID:20210175

This paper describes a method and apparatus for producing a porosity log of a substance formation corrected for detector stand of. It includes: lowering a logging tool having a neutron source and a neutron detector into the borehole, irradiating the subsurface formation with neutrons from the neutron source as the logging tool is traversed along the subsurface formation, recording die-away signals representing the die-away of nuclear radiation in the subsurface formation as detected by the neutron detector, producing intensity signals representing the variations in intensity of the die-away signals, producing a model of the die-away of nuclear radiation in the subsurface formation having terms varying exponentially in response to borehole, formation and background effects on the die-away of nuclear radiation as detected by the detector.

The center of our Galaxy is a known strong source of electron-positron 511- keV annihilation radiation. Thus far, however, there have been no reliable detections of annihilation radiation outside of the central radian of our Galaxy. One of the primary objectives of the INTEGRAL (INTErnational Gamma-RAy Astrophysics Laboratory) mission, launched in Oct. 2002, is the detailed study of this radiation. The Spectrometer on INTEGRAL (SPI) is a high resolution coded-aperture gamma-ray telescope with an unprecedented combination of sensitivity, angular resolution and energy resolution. We report results from the first 10 months of observation. During this period a significant fraction of the observing time was spent in or near the Galactic Plane. No positive annihilation flux was detected outside of the central region (|l| greater than 40 degrees) of our Galaxy. In this paper we describe the observations and data analysis methods and give limits on the 511-keV flux.

In a method of handling MOX fuels transferred in a state being contained in a fuel transferring vessel to a reactor building, when they are transferred from the fuel casks to a fuel erection stand, they are transferred in a state where the MOX fuels are covered by a shielding member for shielding radiation emitted from the MOX fuels. In addition, when they are transferred from the fuel casks to a fuel detection device, they are transferred also in a state being covered by a shielding member in the same manner. Since they are transferred in a state where they are covered by a shielding member for shielding radiation emitted from the MOX fuels, operation can be conducted in a circumstance where radiation is shielded sufficiently, and an operator`s radiation exposure can be reduced. In addition, since MOX fuels can be handled in the same manner as uranium fuels, the workability is not deteriorated. (N.H.)

In the annual report No.37 (fiscal 1994) are described the activities of health physics in Tokai Research Establishment, Naka Fusion Research Establishment, Takasaki Radiation Chemistry Research Establishment, Oarai Research Establishment, Mutsu Establishment and Nuclear Ship Mutsu. In all the establishments, radiation monitoring in nuclear facilities, individual monitoring, environmental monitoring and maintenance of monitoring instruments were carried out as in the previous years. There were no occupational exposure exceeding the effective dose equivalent limit and no release of radioactive gaseous and liquid wastes beyond the release limits specified in the regulations. In the environment, no abnormal radioactivity was detected attributable to the facilities. Technology developments were made as in the previous years for improving the techniques and methods of monitoring of individuals, facilities and environment, and also radiation measurement instrumentation. The research works were carried out in various fields such as radiation dosimetry, environmental monitoring, and so forth. (author).

A sensor for simultaneously detecting neutrons and ionizing electromagnetic radiation comprising: a sensor for the detection of gamma radiation, the sensor defining a sensing head; the sensor further defining an output end in communication with the sensing head; and an exterior neutron-sensitive material configured to form around the sensing head; wherein the neutron-sensitive material, subsequent to the capture of the neutron, fissions into an alpha-particle and a .sup.7 Li ion that is in a first excited state in a majority of the fissions, the first excited state decaying via the emission of a single gamma ray at 478 keV which can in turn be detected by the sensing head; and wherein the sensing head can also detect the ionizing electromagnetic radiation from an incident radiation field without significant interference from the neutron-sensitive material. A method for simultaneously detecting neutrons and ionizing electromagnetic radiation comprising the steps of: providing a gamma ray sensitive detector comprising a sensing head and an output end; conforming an exterior neutron-sensitive material configured to form around the sensing head of the detector; capturing neutrons by the sensing head causing the neutron-sensitive material to fission into an alpha-particle and a .sup.7 Li ion that is in a first excited state in a majority of the fissions, the state decaying via the emission of a single gamma ray at 478 keV; sensing gamma rays entering the detector through the neutron-sensitive material; and producing an output through a readout device coupled to the output end; wherein the detector provides an output which is proportional to the energy of the absorbed ionizing electromagnetic radiation.

This report introduces the nuclear instrumentation system and the major radiation measurement techniques used in the Experimental Fast Reactor `JOYO`. In the introduction of the nuclear instrumentation system, system function and role as reactor plant equipment, specifications and characteristics of neutron detectors, and layout of the system are described. Reactor dosimetry was used to evaluate neutron dose and their spectra for various irradiation tests and surveillance tests performed in JOYO. The multiple-foil activation method which is currently used and the Helium Accumulation Fluence Monitor (HAFM) under development are described. The fuel failure detection (FFD) and the failed fuel detection and location (FFDL) systems in which radiation measurement plays a key role are introduced. It was shown some of the major experimental results obtained from a series of fuel failure simulation tests performed in JOYO. Finally, as a new radiation measurement technique, the Plastic Scintillation Fiber (PSF) is described which is a position sensitive radiation detector that can detect the radiation dose rate at the relevant position in the fiber. The PSF is used to upgrade the gamma-ray distribution measurement to accurately evaluate the Corrosion Products (CPs) behavior in the JOYO primary coolant system. (author)

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in the United States, but there is no detection method that is suitable as an early screening tool. The exercise stress test can be performed noninvasively but requires physical exertion and has low accuracy. A nuclear stress test has higher accuracy, but requires the use of a radio-nucleotide that exposes the patient to radiation. Detection of CAD using acoustic signals recorded from the chest is inexpensive, uses no radiation and is noninvasive. Therefore, the acoustic method is an ideal early screening tool. CAD sounds (bruits) are produced by turbulent blood flow caused by partially obstructed arteries and turbulence is a nonlinear process. Therefore, this study evaluated a nonlinear signal analysis method, the automutual info...

Improved product quality and production methods, and decreased production costs are important objectives of industries. Welding processes are part of this goal. There are many studies about monitoring and controlling welding process. This work presents a non-intrusive on-line monitoriment system and some algorithms capable of detecting GTAW weld defects. Some experiments were made to simulate weld defects by disturbing the electric arc. The data comes from a spectrometer which captures perturbations on the electric arc by the radiation emission of chosen lines. Algorithms based on change detection methods are used to indicate the presence and localization of those defects. PMID:22574049

The radio approach for detecting the ultra-high energy cosmic neutrinos has become a mature field. The Cherenkov pulse in radio detection originates from the charge excess of particle showers due to Askaryan effect. The conventional way of calculating the Cherenkov pulse by making far- field approximation fails when the size of elongated showers become comparable with detection distance. We investigate the Cherenkov pulse in near-field by a numerical code based on the finite- difference time-domain (FDTD) method. Our study shows that the near-field radiation exhibits very different behaviors from the far-field one and therefore can be easily recognized. For ground array neutrino detectors, the near-field radiation would provide a unique signature for ultra high energy electromagnetic showers induced by the electron neutrino charge-current interaction. This can be useful in neutrino flavor identification.

During typical supersonic cruising, the temperature of the aircraft skin rises above 300 K due to aerodynamic heating. In this situation, aircraft-skin infrared (IR) suppression, used to minimize the radiation contrast from the background is a crucial survival technology. In the present study, a technique to evaluate the effectiveness of IR suppression of aircraft skin is proposed. For this purpose, a synthetic procedure based on numerical simulations has been developed. In this procedure, the thermal status of aircraft skin is obtained using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method for complex aircraft geometries. An IR signature model is proposed using a reverse Monte Carlo (RMC) technique. The detection range and the IR contrast are adopted as the performance indicators for the evaluation of the aircraft IR suppression. The influence of these factors related to the aircraft-skin radiation, such as aircraft-skin emissivity, surface temperature distribution and flight speed, on the IR contrast and the detection range is also studied. As a test case, the effectiveness of various IR suppression schemes was analyzed for a typical air combat situation. Then, the method is applied to clarify the contribution of each aircraft component to the IR suppression of the overall IR radiation. The results show that aircraft-skin temperature control and emissivity control are effective means to reduce the IR radiation and to achieve lower detection. The results can be used as a practical guide for designing future stealth aircraft.

Over the regime of the radiation-induced zero-resistance states and associated oscillatory magnetoresistance, we propose a low magnetic field analog of quantum-Hall-limit techniques for the electrical detection of electron spin- and nuclear magnetic- resonance, dynamical nuclear polarization via electron spin resonance, and electrical characterization of the nuclear spin polarization via the Overhauser shift. In addition, beats observed in the radiation-induced oscillatory-magnetoresistance are developed into a method to measure and control the zero-field spin splitting due to the Bychkov-Rashba and bulk inversion asymmetry terms in the high mobility GaAs/AlGaAs system.

A dynamical, non-Euclidean spacetime geometry in general relativity theory implies the possibility of gravitational radiation. Here we explore novel methods of detecting such radiation from astrophysical sources by means of matter-wave interferometers (MIGOs), using atomic beams emanating from supersonic atomic sources that are further cooled and collimated by means of optical molasses. While the sensitivities of such MIGOs compare favorably with LIGO and LISA, the sizes of MIGOs can be orders of magnitude smaller, and their bandwidths wider. Using a pedagogical approach, we place this problem into the broader context of problems at the intersection of quantum mechanics with general relativity.

In a method for determining the radiation received in the past by a TSC dosimeter, the dosimeter is connected to a voltage source providing a polarizing voltage across the dosimeter and to an external closed electric circuit. The initial current pulse then flowing through the dosimeter due to its capacitive properties is detected and measured and if its peak value lies within a predetermined range the actual reading-off of the radiation dose received by the dosimeter is started in that a heating of the dosimeter is initiated and the thermally stimulated currents then produced by the dosimeter in the external closed electric circuit are measured and recorded.

Study objective Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly used for emergency department (ED) patients with abdominal tenderness. CT-related radiation contributes to 2% of US cancers. We hypothesized that in the ED patient with nontraumatic abdominal tenderness, the tender region accurately delineates acute pathology. z axis–restricted CT guided by this region could detect pathology while reducing radiation dose. Methods This was a prospective double-blinded observational trial with informed consent and was institutional review board–approved and registered with ClinicalTrials.gov. A convenience sample of ED patients undergoing abdominal CT was recruited, excluding pregnant women, patients with altered mental status or abdominal sensation, preverbal children, and patients with ...

PURPOSE: Although complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) utilization in breast cancer patients is reported to be high, there are few data on CAM practices in breast patients specifically during radiation. This prospective, multi-institutional study was conducted to define CAM utilization in breast cancer during definitive radiation. MATERIALS/METHODS: A validated CAM instrument with a self-skin assessment was administered to 360 Stage 0-III breast cancer patients from 5 centers during the last week of radiation. All data were analyzed to detect significant differences between users/nonusers. RESULTS: CAM usage was reported in 54% of the study cohort (n=194/360). Of CAM users, 71% reported activity-based CAM (eg, Reiki, meditation), 26% topical CAM, and 45% oral CAM. Only 16% received advice/counseling from naturopathic/homeopathic/medical professionals before initiating CAM. CAM use significantly correlated with higher education level (P<.001), inversely correlated with concomitant hormone/radiation therapy use (P=.010), with a trend toward greater use in younger patients (P=.066). On multivariate analysis, level of education (OR: 6.821, 95% CI: 2.307-20.168, P<.001) and hormones/radiation therapy (OR: 0.573, 95% CI: 0.347-0.949, P=.031) independently predicted for CAM use. Significantly lower skin toxicity scores were reported in CAM users vs nonusers, respectively (mild: 34% vs 25%, severe: 17% vs 29%, P=.017). CONCLUSION: This is the first prospective study to assess CAM practices in breast patients during radiation, with definition of these practices as the first step for future investigation of CAM/radiation interactions. These results should alert radiation oncologists that a large percentage of breast cancer patients use CAM during radiation without disclosure or consideration for potential interactions, and should encourage increased awareness, communication, and documentation of CAM practices in patients undergoing radiation treatment for breast cancer. PMID:22658441

We review the basic features of transition radiation and how they are used for the design of modern Transition Radiation Detectors (TRD). The discussion will include the various realizations of radiators as well as a discussion of the detection media and aspects of detector construction. With regard to particle identification we assess the different methods for efficient discrimination of different particles and outline the methods for the quantification of this property. Since a number of comprehensive reviews already exist, we predominantly focus on the detectors currently operated at the LHC. To a lesser extent we also cover some other TRDs, which are planned or are currently being operated in balloon or space-borne astro-particle physics experiments.

We review the basic features of transition radiation and how they are used for the design of modern Transition Radiation Detectors (TRD). The discussion will include the various realizations of radiators as well as a discussion of the detection media and aspects of detector construction. With regard to particle identification we assess the different methods for efficient discrimination of different particles and outline the methods for the quantification of this property. Since a number of comprehensive reviews already exist, we predominantly focus on the detectors currently operated at the LHC. To a lesser extent we also cover some other TRDs, which are planned or are currently being operated in balloon or space-borne astro-particle physics experiments.

Optically Stimulated Luminescence (hereafter OSL) dosimeter system is the method for radiation dose measurements by detecting light emitted when the luminescence material, which is exposed to radiation, is stimulated with visible light. Recently, this system has been developed as an advanced method for personal radiation dosimetry and has already been adopted in some countries such as U.S.A., Canada and others. Some basic characteristics (linearity for dose, energy response, angular dependence, dose evaluation performance on mixed irradiation field, fading and so on) required for the practical application of the {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} OSL dosimeter were investigated. It is shown that the OSL dosimeter has excellent good enough to performance for the measurement of {gamma}, X and {beta} doses and is good enough for practical use as personal dosimeter. This paper describes the basic characteristics of the OSL dosimeter obtained by the investigation. (author)

This decree details the content of the training of the radiation protection competent person that must allow to the applicant to execute the missions assigned by the article R.231-106 from the Labour code. The different chapters are as follow: radioactivity; radiation-matter interaction; protection principle against external exposure; protection principle against contamination; radiation detection; biological radiation effects; exposure sources for man; regulation; the work of the competent person in radiation protection; optimization in radiation protection. (N.C.)

A radiation detecting device comprising a radiation sensing element, and a layer of luminescent material to expand the range of wavelengths over which the sensing element can efficiently detect radiation. The luminescent material being selected to absorb radiation at selected wavelengths, causing the luminescent material to luminesce, and the luminescent radiation being detected by the sensing element. Radiation sensing elements include photodiodes (singly and in arrays), CCD arrays, IR detectors and photomultiplier tubes. Luminescent materials include polymers, oligomers, copolymers and porphyrines, Luminescent layers include thin films, thicker layers, and liquid polymers.

The determination of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) in diesel fuel blends is an important aspect of production and blending process as well as quality control of distribution operations. In this study, energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (EDXRF) is used for the first time for determination of FAME in biodiesel blends. The principle of the method is based on intensity difference of X-ray radiation scattered from hydrocarbons and from FAME. The experiment shows that coherent and incoherent radiation, commonly applied for evaluation of the average atomic number of the sample with light matrix, cannot be applied for FAME determination. However, the application of scattered continuous radiation gives excellent correlation between FAME concentration and intensity of scattered radiation. The best results are obtained if continuum is collected in the range of energy between 10.5 and 15.0 keV for rhodium X-ray tube, operated at 35 kV. Linear relationship between the FAME concentration and the inverse of scattered continuous radiation is obtained with the correlation coefficients of 0.999. Standard deviation of measurement is ca. 0.46% (v/v) of FAME and detection limit is 1.2% (v/v) for 600 s counting time and 50% dead-time loss using Si-PIN detector. The investigation shows that crucial issue in determination of FAME in biodiesel blends using EDXRF spectrometer is the precision of measurements resulting from the counting statistics. Therefore, much better results (0.20% (v/v) standard deviation and 0.52% (v/v) detection limit) can be expected if higher intensity of primary radiation is applied and X-ray spectrum is collected by silicon drift detector of high input count rate. For concentration of FAME from 10 to 100% (v/v), the differences between reference method (Fourier transform infrared spectrometry) and the proposed method usually do not exceed 1% (v/v) of FAME. The proposed method is fast, simple and enables FAME determination in wide range of concentration up to 100% of FAME without any sample treatment. PMID:21872051

Inherited mutations are the basis of evolution and acquired mutations in humans are important in ageing, cancer and possibly various forms of tissue degeneration. Mutations are responsible for many of the long-term effects of radiation. However, sensitive direct detection of mutations in humans has been difficult. The aims of the project were to develop methods for the sensitive enumeration of mutations in DNA, to measure mutation frequencies in a wide variety of tissue types and to quantify the mutational effect of direct oxidative damage produced by radiation, at both high and low doses. The project was successful in developing a sensitive method which could detect mutations directly in the genetic material, DNA at a sensitivity of 1 mutated molecule in 1000000000 unmutated molecules. However a number of methodological problems had to be overcome and lack of ongoing funding made it impossible to fulfill all of the aims of the project

The improvement of techniques to detect pathogen agents in blood had reduced significantly the contamination mechanisms by hemocomponents in blood transfusion procedures. Ionizing radiation is a method that has presented several applications on medicine and in currently days has been showing special attention on blood banks which has been applied to avoid TA-GVHD development. DHFR is an enzyme constitutive in Plasmodium protozoa and has an important role in folate metabolism on these parasites. Detecting the expression of RNAm coder for this enzyme is possible to evaluate the viability of this parasite in blood samples. Plasmodium chabaudi AJ is a parasite that induces lethal malaria in rodents similar to human malaria In this work, the objective was to detect the presence of plasmodium protozoa in irradiated blood samples, infected experimentally, through the application of a RT-PCR using primers for the coder sequence of DHFR's mRNA. We studied doses of ionizing radiation between 0 and 75 Gy. The irradiation procedures were accomplished in Center of Radiation Technology of IPEN-CNEN in a {sup 60}Co panoramic source. Our results had demonstrated that RT-PCR is a sensible method to evaluate the viability of plasmodium in blood samples because the technique could detect low parasite burden in all tested samples. (author)

Recent legislation in the United States has increased the probability of using ionizing radiation for preserving food. The possible increased use of food irradiation in this country, in addition to current use of the technique in other countries, makes it important to develop a method whereby the extent of irradiation of foods can be determined. Both opponents and proponents of this particular food-processing technique support postirradiation dosimetry (PID) as a way to measure the extent of changes in irradiated products. To prevent tampering and alteration of the dosimeters, the best postirradiation dosimeters are those that are inherent in the product exposed to the ionizing radiation. Therefore detection of the intermediates and subsequent products arising from the interaction of ionizing radiation with biomolecules in food should be a viable means by which the irradiated status of a food sample can be determined. To be useful as biomarkers, however, the products formed by irradiation must be detectable by routine analytical methods, formed exclusively by ionizing radiation (unless formation from alternate methods can be readily determined), and stable for the duration of the expected shelf life of the food product. In this article Lisa R. Karam and Michael G. Simic of the National Institute of Standards and Technology describe methodology developed to identify the irradiated status of foods using hydroxyl radical biomarkers.

EPR resonances attributable to radiation-induced centers in hydroxyapatite were not detectable in bone samples supplied by the USTUR. These centers are the basis for imaging and dose assessment. Presumable, the short range of the alpha particles emitted precluded the formation of appreciable amounts of hydroxyapatite centers. However, one bone sample did offer a suggestion of hydroxyapatite centers and newly-developed methods to extract this information will be pursued.

x-Ray spectroscopy methods were used in an investigation of the spectra of plasmas formed from Mg, Al, Ge, Mo, and Ta targets by heating with iodine laser radiation of power density (3-5)×1014 W cm-2. In the case of Ta targets the presence of Ta45+,46+ ions was detected. This information should help in the development of laser plasma sources of multiply charged ions. The spectra were identified and the plasma parameters were measured.

Several research programs including ACCRI (Aviation-Climate Change Research Initiative) have recognized the importance of reducing the significant uncertainty in current estimates of the regional and global contributions of contrails and contrail-generated cirrus clouds to climate change. Before we can predict their potential effects in the future, it is necessary to characterize their past effects accurately. One of the recommendations of the ACCRI research program is to develop a global climatology of line-shaped contrails detectable with remote sensing methods with information on the associated optical properties of the contrails. Such a database would be a valuable first step towards a more realistic representation of contrails and cirrus within climate models. An automated contrail detection algorithm and a multi-spectral cloud property retrieval method are used to determine the optical properties of linear persistent contrails over the Contiguous United States (CONUS), and to compute radiative forcing within the detected contrails. The contrail detection algorithm is an extension of the Mannstein et al. (1999) method, and uses several channels from Terra and Aqua MODIS data to reduce the occurrence of false positive detections. Results from several months of satellite observations will be presented, representing a preliminary regional climatology of contrail properties over the CONUS domain including cloud coverage, optical depth, particle size, and radiative forcing.

Food irradiation is used to kill harmful microorganisms (e.g. salmonella), this improving food safety and extending the shelf-life. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) detection of stable, radiation-induced free radicals within the matrix of calcified tissue is well established. An extention of this technique to food provides in suitable cases one of the most promissing methods for detecting that irradiation has been performed. It provides an excellent method for the identification of irradiated foods containing bones or calcified cuticle even in the absence of unirradiated controls. Bones of chicken, pepper grains and lentils were also identified as irradiated some weeks after radiation treatment. The method is rapid and can detect very low doses. With EPR - Tomography the 2D spatial distribution of the irradiation induced stable radicals in the cross section of a chicken bone was measured. The use of ionising radiation to treat certain foodstuffs is increasingly of interest and there is a need to determine wether irradiation has occured, and to what extent. (orig.)

Computerized tomographic (CT) measurements of lung density were obtained before and serially after thoracic irradiation in dogs to detect the alterations caused by radiation therapy. Fourteen mongrel dogs were given either 2000 cGy (Group A, 10 dogs, right lower zone irradiation), 1000 cGy (Group B, 2 dogs, right lower zone irradiation), or 500 cGy (Group C, 2 dogs, right lung irradiation) in one fraction. Once before and bi-weekly after irradiation, the anesthetized dogs had thoracic CT scans. CT numbers for the irradiated area were compared to their preirradiation control values. Macro-aggregated albumin (MAA) perfusion lung scans were also obtained before and at weekly intervals after irradiation and were evaluated visually and quantitatively for abnormalities. When both these tests were abnormal, or at the end of the scheduled study, the dogs were sacrificed to confirm radiation lung injury histologically. Our results showed that CT numbers (as a measure of tissue density) were higher with higher doses of radiation. Among all the techniques used, only the quantitative assessment of macro-aggregated albumin perfusion scan detected abnormalities in all the dogs given 2000 cGy. Their abnormalities correlated well with the presence of radiation lung damage histologically, however, the applicability of these methods in the detection of early injury has to be further evaluated.

Background Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) offers great benefit that could improve a patient's quality of life. However, numerous case reports of patient radiation injury resulting from PCI are being published, these reports likely represent a small fraction of the actual cases. Purpose To demonstrate the appropriate duration of patient follow-up after PCI to identify radiation effects. Material and Methods We evaluated 400 consecutive PCIs. The radiation dose (dose-area product, cumulative dose, maximum skin dose), number of cine runs, and fluoroscopic time were recorded for all patients. The skin on the patients' backs was reviewed periodically after PCI. Results Radiation skin effects occurred in six patients from PCI of the right coronary artery in chronic total occlusion (CTO) patients (mild erythema; occurrence rate 1.5%). Skin injury in two patients appeared in cycles. In most cases, erythema was vividly seen at 4 weeks after PCI. Conclusion Careful observation for skin injury is needed. At a few days following PCI, early erythema can be detected through careful observation by well-trained staff. At 7-10 days after PCI, most erythematous pigmentation can be detected. At 4 weeks after PCI, most skin erythema appears clearly, however, some cases of skin erythema occur without back pain. After that, follow-up every 6 months is needed to detect the reappearance of erythema. PMID:23024180

To perform dosimetry and risk assessment, NASA collects astronaut ionizing radiation exposure data from space flight, medical imaging and therapy, aviation training activities and prior occupational exposure histories. Career risk of exposure induced death (REID) from radiation is limited to 3 percent at a 95 percent confidence level. The Radiation Health Office at Johnson Space Center (JSC) is implementing a program to integrate the gathering, storage, analysis and reporting of astronaut ionizing radiation dose and risk data and records. This work has several motivations, including more efficient analyses and greater flexibility in testing and adopting new methods for evaluating risks. The foundation for these improvements is a set of software tools called the Astronaut Radiation Exposure Analysis System (AREAS). AREAS is a series of MATLAB(Registered TradeMark)-based dose and risk analysis modules that interface with an enterprise level SQL Server database by means of a secure web service. It communicates with other JSC medical and space weather databases to maintain data integrity and consistency across systems. AREAS is part of a larger NASA Space Medicine effort, the Mission Medical Integration Strategy, with the goal of collecting accurate, high-quality and detailed astronaut health data, and then securely, timely and reliably presenting it to medical support personnel. The modular approach to the AREAS design accommodates past, current, and future sources of data from active and passive detectors, space radiation transport algorithms, computational phantoms and cancer risk models. Revisions of the cancer risk model, new radiation detection equipment and improved anthropomorphic computational phantoms can be incorporated. Notable hardware updates include the Radiation Environment Monitor (which uses Medipix technology to report real-time, on-board dosimetry measurements), an updated Tissue-Equivalent Proportional Counter, and the Southwest Research Institute Radiation Assessment Detector. Also, the University of Florida hybrid phantoms, which are flexible in morphometry and positioning, are being explored as alternatives to the current NASA computational phantoms.

X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (SXRF) at the synchrotron radiation source ANKA allows the identification and quantitative determination of trace amounts of chemical elements in condensed matter. This method is non-destructive with ng/g relative detection limits and absolute detection limits in the fg range. It is possible to analyse parts of a sample in their natural environment by a laterally confined beam of micrometer dimensions. Applications range form trace analysis of metals in alloys to elemental distributions in aerosol particles or single cells. At ANKA, early prints and manuscripts as well as micro-tektites and spherules from meteorites have been investigated. (orig.)

The specification is directed to an apparatus and method for detecting light scattering from a biological cell. Light, preferably from a coherent source of radiation, intercepts an individual biological cell in a stream of cells passing through the beam. Light scattered from the cell is detected at a selected number of angles between 0 and 90/sup 0/ to the longitudinal axis of the beam with a circular array of light responsive elements which produce signals representative of the intensity of light incident thereon. Signals from the elements are processed to determine the light-scattering pattern of the cell and therefrom its identity.

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein complex that adds heximeric repeats called telomeres to the growing ends of chromosomal DNA. Telomerase activity is present in a vast majority of tumors but is repressed in most normal tissues. Human telomerase catalytic subunit gene (hEST2) reverse transcriptase (RT) segment was cloned by PCR according to the sequence published in GeneBank. PCR was used to investigate the expression of the hEST2 RT segment in diverse tumors as well as in various normal tissues. Results indicated that hEST2 RT segment was detectable in tumor cells lines but not in normal cells and tissues. In order to identify the relationship between telomerase and the biological effect of radiation injury, HeLa cells, KB cells and A431 cells were employed to measure the change in telomerase activity after {sup 60}Co-ray irradiation at RNA level and protein level. Quantitative PCR determined that expression of hEST2 RT segment that encodes seven motifs of the human telomeras decreased with increasing dosage of radiation. In addition, a PCR-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol was used to assay telomerase activity after exposure to radiation. The results strongly support the experiments we had made: Telomerase activity decreases with increasing dosage of radiation. We conclude that detection of the hEST2 RT segment by Northern blotting is a new method for detecting telomerase activity. Furthermore, radiation can cause a dose-dependent decrease in telomerase activity. The effect of radiation on telomerase is one possible reason for the death of cancer cells after irradiation. (author)

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is very common in Southern China and Southeast Asian countries. To explore a novel and more effective approach to NPC therapy, a combined strategy of suicide genes and radiation was designed in this study. Five suicide gene expression cassettes, yeast CD, yeast CD/UPRT, and yeast CDglyTK gene controlled by CMV, and Egr-1 and a synthetic CMV-enhanced Egr-1 promoter (CE) were constructed in an expression vector p11MS. The expression of suicide genes in NPC CNE-2 cells were detected by RT-PCR and Western blot. The cytotoxicity of suicide gene therapy and radiation were analyzed by MTT assay. An animal study in which yeast CD/UPRT-expressing CNE-2 tumors in nude mice were treated with 5-FC and radiation was also developed. Our results revealed that p11MSCEyCD/UPRT and p11MSCEyCDglyTK are superior over three other constructs in the killing of NPC cells in vitro. We combined suicide gene-expressing tumors, 5-FC treatment, and radiation in vivo and found that the tumors greatly regressed, some disappeared completely in 3 nude mice in the yCD/UPRT group, and a significant difference of tumor volumes was observed between this group and the other four groups (p < 0.05). Our results indicated that suicide gene therapy and radiation have a synergic effect on NPC therapy, and the combined strategy of radiogene therapy is of great potential as a substitute for the traditional method, radiation alone, in NPC therapies.   

Geiger-Muller (GM) radiation counters was conducted, and the results are described ... Calibration of the anemometer would be affected only by changes .... solid angle correction factor, and the radiation detection efficiency, respectively, ...

Nov 20, 2008 ... developing fiber optic technology operating in radiation sensitive environments. Recently ..... Yes; PDF Company is based in Turkey ..... The purpose of this paper is using an optical fiber for radiation detection around reactors ...

high radiation doses and therefore employ radiation-hardened components. ... I. INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES ... continually in the background to correct errors [3], and ..... Ultimately, we aim to provide error-detecting and correcting ...

Nov 16, 2012 ... Cloud Radiative Processes ... They have a strong effect on solar heating by reflecting part of the incident solar radiation back to space. ... and Monte Carlo methods then determine the radiative properties of such clouds.

We present a method of estimating the sensitivity to radiation- induced Single Event Upset (SEU) in the front-end ASICs for the ATLAS Semiconductor Tracker. The method is using ASICs of the final design with limited read-back possibilities of internal registers. Hence the measurement is adapted to utilise the event-data flow in the digital part of the ASIC to detect bit-flips. Furthermore, we report on the application of this method to estimate the SEU sensitivity. The results presented are based on data from three irradiation periods using prototype electronics hybrids and detector modules. The measurements were done with 24 GeV/c protons and 200 MeV/c pions.

This book is aimed at biologist initiation to radiation detection by liquid scintillators. Some basic notions on radioactivity are first recalled. Radiation absorption, and fluorescence and scintillation phenomena are studied. The different electronic elements, which are the counter constituents, and their operation principles are described, together with the controls. The user has to operate on an instrument before its use. Quenching correction methods are described. They are necessary when, with the introduction of the radioactive sample, substances which modify the scintillation yield are introduced. The operation of these corrections needs measurements and calculus: the use of computers is presented. The principal types of biological origin samples introduced in the scintillator, on which radioactivity measurement may be needed, are presented. At last some notions of radiation protection are given.

Future High Energy Physics experiments require the use of light and stable structures to support their most precise radiation detection elements. These large structures must be light, highly stable, stiff and radiation tolerant in an environment where external vibrations, high radiation levels, material aging, temperature and humidity gradients are not negligible. Unforeseen factors and the unknown result of the coupling of environmental conditions, together with external vibrations, may affect the position stability of the detectors and their support structures compromising their physics performance. Careful optimization of static and dynamic behavior must be an essential part of the engineering design. Genetic Algorithms ( GA) belong to the group of probabilistic algorithms, combining elements of direct and stochastic search. They are more robust than existing directed search methods with the advantage of maintaining a population of potential solutions. There is a class of optimization problems for which Ge...

Silicon devices (both pixels and microstrips) have been widely used in the past years in High Energy Physics experiments and also in other applications involving the detection of ionizing radiation such as medical imaging and dosimetry. The simulation of the silicon devices response to ionizing radiation is an important step needed to understand the performances in terms of signal, noise, spatial and energy resolution as a function of several technology parameters like doping profile, geometrical dimensions, bias voltage. These simulations are routinely carried out using two separate approaches (and tools): radiation interaction with a geometrically segmented silicon material (GEANT4, FLUKA, PENELOPE) taking into account the physical processes and giving as output the deposited energy; transport of generated electron/hole pairs through the device with electronic signal formation (SENTAURUS-TCAD). In this work we propose a new combined approach using both methods, applied to the case of CMOS pixel sensor, to obtain a better understanding of the behavior of the devices.

More than two dozen short-period Jupiter-mass gas giant planets have been discovered around nearby solar-type stars in recent years, several of which undergo transits, making them ideal for the detection and characterization of their atmospheres. Here we adopt a three-dimensional radiative hydrodynamical numerical scheme to simulate atmospheric circulation on close-in gas giant planets. In contrast to the conventional GCM and shallow water algorithms, this method does not assume quasi hydrostatic equilibrium and it approximates radiation transfer from optically thin to thick regions with flux-limited diffusion. In the first paper of this series, we consider synchronously-spinning gas giants. We show that a full three-dimensional treatment, coupled with rotationally modified flows and an accurate treatment of radiation, yields a clear temperature transition at the terminator. Based on a series of numerical simulations with varying opacities, we show that the night-side temperature is a strong indicator of the ...

General principles of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) phenomenon are applied to studying the structure and physical properties of thin conducting tin dioxide (SnO2) films. The SPR effects are detected and investigated by the methods of polarization modulation of the incident electromagnetic radiation. Angular and spectral dependencies of the reflection coefficients Rs^2 and Rp^2 for the s- and p-polarized radiation, together with their polarization difference =Rs^2-Rp^2 are measured in the wavelength range of 400-1600nm. Experimentally obtained (, l) characteristics reflect the peculiar optical properties associated with the film structure and morphology. Surface plasmon-polaritons and local plasmons excited by s- and p-polarized radiation were observed. The results confirm that the SP...

Detection of radionuclides emitting short-range radiation, such as ? and low-energy ? particles, has always presented a challenge, particularly when such radionuclides are dispersed over a wide area. In this situation, conventional detection methods require the area of interest to be surveyed using a fragile probe at very close range--a slow, error-prone, and potentially dangerous process that may take many hours for a single room. The instrument under development uses a novel approach by imaging radiation-induced fluorescence in the air surrounding a contaminated area, rather than detecting the radiation directly. A robust and portable system has been designed and built that will allow contaminated areas to be rapidly detected and delineated. The detector incorporates position-sensitive photo-multiplier tubes, UV filters, a fast electronic shutter and an aspherical phase mask that significantly increases the depth-of-field. Preliminary tests have been conducted using sealed 241Am sources of varying activities and surface areas. The details of the instrument design will be described and the results of recent testing will be presented.

This method consists in producing three dimensional radiographs of samples that can be large by using medium energy proton beams (E/sub p / of the order of 1 GeV) and standard particle physics detection systems. For medical applications low radiation dose and fast data acquisition are required. A first step was taken at CERN where the solid angle of detection was increased so that a human head could be imaged with a radiation dose of 0.3 rad, and a faster acquisition rate but still leading to a prohibitive exposure time. Further improvement aims, by increasing the acquisition rate, to obtain such a radiograph in 20 minutes which would allow in vivo applications. (8 refs).

The fabrication of a CdTe array radiation detector and its radiation detection characteristics are described. In order to obtain high efficiency of charge collection and realize uniform detection sensitivity, current-voltage characteristics with the combination of large and small barrier height contacts and three kinds of CdTe crystals have been investigated. It was found that the Schottky barrier height of electroless Pt deposition was 0.97 eV, which effectively suppressed electron injection. By using the crystal grown by the travelling heater method with a Cl concentration of 2 ppm, carrier lifetimes for electrons and holes of 1.0 and 0.5 [mu]s, respectively, were achieved. A 90 element array detector exhibited an energy resolution as low as 4.5 keV and a count rate variation of less than 5% for 60 keV [gamma]-rays. (orig.).

The nonlinear optical methods for generating and detecting terahertz radiation using periodically and aperiodically poled crystals in the quasi-phase-matching mode are analyzed. Two radically different versions of optical pumping are considered: a quasi-continuous mode and pumping by Fourier-limited femto-second pulses. General relations are obtained, which determine the spectra of generated and detected waves through the optical pumping parameters and the crystal generator and crystal detector nonlinear transfer functions. It is shown that, by choosing the optimal spatial modulation of the crystal nonlinear susceptibility, one can control the shape of the generation and detection spectra. An optical scheme is proposed and the optimal parameters of domain structures for quasi-phase-matched generation and frequency-matched detection of forward and backward terahertz waves under quasi-continuous-wave optical pumping are reported.

The performance of several commercially available portable radiation spectrometers containing small NaI(Tl) scintillation detectors has been studied at the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL). These hand-held radioisotope identifiers are used by field personnel to detect and identify the illegal transport of uranium as a deterrent to undeclared nuclear proliferation or nuclear terrorism. The detection of uranium in a variety of chemical forms and isotopic enrichments presents some unique challenges in the maritime environment. This study was conducted using a variety of shielded and unshielded uranium sources in a simulated maritime environment. The results include estimates of the detection sensitivity for various isotopic enrichments and configurations using the manufacturer's spectral analysis firmware. More sophisticated methods for analyzing the spectra off-line are also evaluated to determine the detection limits and enrichment sensitivities from the field measurements.

The Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL), the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), and the Advanced Research and Applications Corporation (ARACOR) [Sunnyvale, California] performed a photonuclear technology demonstration for shielded nuclear material detection during August 21–22, 2002, at the LANL TA-18 facility. The demonstration used the Pulsed Photonuclear Assessment Technique (PPAT) that focused on the application of a photofission-based, nuclear material detection method as a viable complement to the ARACOR Eagle inspection platform. The Eagle is a mobile and fully operational truck and cargo inspection system that uses a 6-MeV electron accelerator to perform real-time radiography. This imaging is performed using an approved “radiation-safe” or “cabinet safe” operation relative to the operators, inspectors, and any stowaways within the inspected vehicles. While the PPAT has been primarily developed for active interrogation, its neutron detection system also maintains a complete and effective passive detection capability.

A process and apparatus are disclosed for converting a conventional beta radiation liquid scintillation counter to detect gamma radiation. Special mini- size counting vials are employed of the same size as those used in the detection of beta radiation but such vials detect gamma radiation, which is measured by the beta radiation liquid scintillation counter. These mini-size counting vials have relatively thin walls formed from scintillation crystal chips of an alkali metal halide and are preferably covered by and embedded in a polynuclear aromatic compound. (auth)

Method of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance is extensively applied to individual retrospective dosimetry. The background dose is unavoidable component of cumulative absorbed dose in the tooth enamel accumulated during the lifetime of donor. Estimation of incidental radiation dose using tooth enamel needs in extraction of background dose. Moreover, the variation of background doses in the population is a limited factor for reliable detection of additional irradiation especially for low dose level. Therefore the accurate knowledge of the natural background radiation dose is a critical element of EPR studies of exposed populations. In the Urals region the method applies for such two large cohorts as the workers of Mayak (Ozersk citizens) and Techa River riverside inhabitants (rural population). Current study aimed to investigate the Urals radiation background detected by EPR spectrometry. For this aim two group of unexposed Urals residents were separated, viz: citizens of Ozersk and rural inhabitants of Chelyabinsk region. Comparison of two investigated territories has demonstrated that from the point of view of radiation background it is impossible to assume the Urals population as uniform. The reliable difference between the urban and rural residents has been found. The average background doses of Ozersk donors is in average 50 mGy higher than those detected for rural residents. The individual variability of background doses for Osersk has been higher than in the rural results. The difference in background dose levels between two population results in different limits of accidental dose detection and individualization. The doses for 'Mayak' workers (Ozyorsk citizens) can be classed as anthropogenic if the EPR measurements exceed 120 mGy for teeth younger than 40 years, and 240 mGy for teeth older than 70 years. The anthropogenic doses for Techa River residents (rural population) would be higher than 95 mGy for teeth younger than 50 years and 270 mGy for teeth older than 80 years. (authors)

An important biological effect of ionizing radiation on living organisms is mutation induction. Mutation is also a primary event in the etiology of cancer. The chain events, from induction of DNA damage by ionizing radiation to processing of these damages by the cellular repair/replication machinery, that lead to mutation are not well understood. The development of quantitative methods for measuring mutation-induction, such as the HPRT system, in cultured mammalian cells has provided an estimate of the mutagenic effects of x- and {gamma}-rays as wen as of high LET radiation in both rodent and human cells. A major conclusion from these mutagenesis data is that high LET radiation induces mutations more efficiently than g-rays. Molecular analysis of mutations induced by sparsely ionizing radiation have detected major structural alterations at the gene level. Our molecular results based on analysis of human HPRT deficient mutants induced by {gamma}-rays, {alpha}-particles and high energy charged particles indicate that higher LET radiation induce more total and large deletion mutations than {gamma}-rays. Utilizing molecular techniques including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP), denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and Direct DNA sequencing, mutational spectra induced by ionizing radiation have been compared in different cell systems. Attempts have also been made to determine the mutagenic potential and the nature of mutation induced by low dose rate {gamma}-rays. Defective repair, in the form of either a diminished capability for repair or inaccurate repair, can lead to increased risk of heritable mutations from radiation exposure. Therefore, the effects of DNA repair deficiency on the mutation induction in mammalian cells is reviewed.

Had the detonations on 9/11 involved nuclear explosives rather than jet fuel the number of deaths and the costs would have been multiplied by 100 or 1,000. This talk will briefly describe the nuclear threat and then focus on the technologies, both extant and evolving, for the detection and interdiction of clandestine trafficking of nuclear weapons and nuclear and radiological material. The methods vary from passive detection of heat, gamma radiation, neutrons, or other signatures from nuclear material, through radiological approaches to examine contents of vehicles and cargo containers, to active interrogation concepts that are under development. All of these methods have major physics components ranging from simple gamma ray detection as learned in a senior undergraduate lab to the latest ideas in muon production and acceleration.

New neutron detection methods using the 3He-Ne lasing are proposed. These methods are mainly based on two types of lasing: nuclear pumped laser (NPL) and radiation triggered laser (RTL). In the NPL mode, the charged particles produced by neutron reactions directly excite the laser gas, and then the lasing occurs. The direct NPL output power and the optical gain are available as signals to measure the thermal neutron flux. In the RTL mode, the neutron irradiation raises the discharge of the laser gas when a specific voltage is applied, and then the lasing occurs. This method is based on the variation of the lasing voltage by the neutron irradiation. Experimental results, obtained for both of these two methods, show the feasibility of a new neutron detection system, using the laser light signal, and which can be applied to in-core neutron monitoring in the fission reactor.

The cross modulation method of transformation of the spatial coherence of low-power pulsed laser radiation in a nonlinear medium is proposed. The method is realised experimentally in a multimode optical fibre. The estimates of the degree of spatial coherence of radiation subjected to the phase cross modulation demonstrated the high efficiency of this radiation decorrelation mechanism. (control of laser radiation parameters)

Purpose. Insulin like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF-1R) is well-documented to play a key role in radiation response and tumor radiosensitivity, thus offering an attractive clinic drug target to enhance tumor sensitivity to anti-cancer radiotherapy. Material and methods. Human colon carcinoma SW480 cells were transfected with the specific small interference RNA (siRNA) expression vector (pkD-shRNA-IGF-1R-V2) designed to target IGF-1R mRNA. The expression of IGF-1R mRNA and its protein among the transfected and untransfected cells were detected by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and ELISA assay. The changes in cell radiosensitivity were examined by MTT assay. Results. Transfection of mammalian expression vector pkD containing IGF-1R siRNA was shown to reduce IGF-1R mRNA levels by up to 95%. ELISA assay detected a similar inhibition of IGF-1R protein levels in cells transfected with IGF-1R siRNA. SW480 cells transfected with the expression vector for siRNA significantly rendered cells more sensitive to radiation and the highest radiation enhancement ratio was 2.02 +- 0.08. Conclusion. These data provide the first evidence that specific siRNA fragment (pkD-shRNA-IGF-1R-V2) targeting human IGF-1R mRNA is able to enhance colon cancer radiosensitivity. Also results indicated that, combining IGF-1R siRNA and radiation significantly enhances antitumor efficacy compared with either modality alone

We present measurements of the spectral distribution of transition radiation generated by electrons of momentum 1 to 10 GeV/c in different radiator types. We investigate periodic foil radiators and irregular foam and fiber materials. The transition radiation photons are detected by prototypes of the drift chambers to be used in the Transition Radiation Detector (TRD) of the ALICE experiment at CERN, which are filled with a Xe, CO2 (15 %) mixture. The measurements are compared to simulations in order to enhance the quantitative understanding of transition radiation production, in particular the momentum dependence of the transition radiation yield.

The early detection and eradication of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) play an important role in cancer metastasis management. This paper describes a new nanoparticle-enabled technique for integrated enrichment, detection and killing of CTCs by using magnetic nanoparticles and bismuth nanoparticles, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and X-ray radiation. The nanoparticles are modified with tumor targeting agents and conjugated with tumor cells through folate receptors over-expressed on cancer cells. A permanent micro-magnet is used to collect CTCs suspended inside a flowing medium that contains phosphate buffered saline (PBS) or whole blood. The characteristic X-ray emissions from collected bismuth nanoparticles, upon excitation with collimated X-rays, are used to detect CTCs. Results show that the method is capable of selectively detecting CTCs at concentrations ranging from 100-100,000 cells/mL in the buffer solution, with a detection limit of ? 100 CTCs/mL. Moreover, the dose of primary X-rays can be enhanced to kill the localized CTCs by radiation induced DNA damage, with minimal invasiveness, thus making in vivo personalized CTC management possible. PMID:22776179

Heat, acid, base, UV radiation and oxidation stress methods were applied to study the stability of cough-cold products containing acetaminophen, phenylephrine or phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride and chlorpheniramine maleate. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was used to analyze the degraded samples and obtain molecular weights information. Different volatile buffers (ammonium bicarbonate and ammonium acetate) were assayed in LC/MS methods and retention times of the analytes were compared with those obtained in HPLC with UV detection employing a conventional sodium phosphate buffer to establish the possibility of results transference between the two systems. PMID:15336351

A method is described for the detection of sex-chromosome nondisjunction and diploid spermatids in male germ cells of the field vole Microtus oeconomus. The method is based on the unique distribution pattern of heterochromatin in Microtus cells, which makes it possible to identify X and Y chromosomes in early spermatids with a simple C-banding procedure. With the Microtus system it has now been demonstrated that radiation of spermatocyte stages with doses of 50, 100 and 200 R results in a higher frequency of sex chromosome nondisjunction and of diploid gametes. Both types of aberrant gametes can be produced during the first and second meiotic division.

A new method is described for determining the quantum state of correlated multimode radiation by interfering the modes and measuring the statistics of the superimposed fields in four-port balanced homodyne detection. The full information on the N-mode quantum state is obtained by controlling both the relative amplitudes and the phases of the modes, which simplifies the reconstruction of density matrices to only N+1 Fourier transforms. In particular, this method yields time-correlated multimode density matrices of optical pulses by superimposing the signal by a sequence of short local-oscillator pulses.

This review presents a critical discussion of selected reports dealing with the pretreatment methods of oily samples and the determination of their organic and inorganic constituents using flow systems and spectrometric methods. Special emphasis is given to the on-line couplings with detection systems based on UV-visible spectrophotometry and spectrofluorimetry, atomic absorption spectrometry either with flame or electrothermal atomization as well as inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry or inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Simple dilution with organic solvents, digestion with concentrated acids under thermal heating, microwave or ultrasound radiation and emulsification procedures are mostly used. The empirical preparation of certain organized assemblies like...

Organic fluorescence nanoparticles (1-aminopyrene nanoparticles) were prepared under ultrasonic radiation and used to determine nitrite. Such nanoparticles have a broad, continuous excitation spectrum, but they are also photochemically stable and water-soluble. Nitrite determination was based upon nitrite quenching the fluorescence of the nanoparticles due to a simple diazotization reaction; a simple and specific method. Under optimal conditions, the linear range of the calibration curve was 20-1400 ng ml(-1), with a correlation coefficient of 0.9987 for nitrite. The detection limit was 3 ng ml(-1). The method was applied to various water samples from several sources. Quantitative nitrite recoveries and satisfactory results were achieved. PMID:15915346

To monochromatize an X-ray beam with a stable fixed wavelength from continuous spectrum synchrotron radiation (SR), a dispersive monolithic double channel-cut monochromator (MDCM) of (771) and (\\\\bar7\\\\bar71) was designed, and fabricated from a float-zone silicon crystal. A method of adjusting the attitude of the MDCM using a wavelength analyzer was contrived; the stability and bandwidth of the transmitted beam were evaluated by this method. It was confirmed that the central wavelength of the transmitted beam did not change at a detection limit of 5×10?9 within the range of half the intensity of the throughput.   

This patent describes a spectrometer system which includes a radiation source, an interferometer, a throughput-limiting aperture, and radiation detection means, the effectiveness of which system is dependent on its radiation throughput, a radiation transmission system between the interferometer and the detection means. This consists of: at least one collimated segment including optical means for causing the radiation therein to be in collimated form, without substantial diminution of the radiation throughput below that of the throughput-limiting aperture; at least one confocal segment including optical means for causing the radiation therein to pass through a focal point between confocal elements, without substantial diminution of the radiation throughput below that of the throughput-limiting aperture; and sample-illuminating means which receives the system radiation only after it has passed through both the collimated segment and the confocal segment.

We obtained the following results with regards to the effects of low dose ionizing radiation (5, 10, 15 and 20 cGy) on neuronal migration of developing rat cerebral cortex. Neuronal migration delay was found by autoradiography after intraperitoneal labeling with [sup 3]H-thymidine to pregnant Wistar rats embryonic 16, and low dose radiation an hour or 48 hours after labeling. In 15-20 cGy, N-CAM (neural cell adhesion molecules) staining patterns changed with immunohistochemical method, whereas those of L1 and cytoskeleton neurofilament (160 KD), tauprotein, MAP2 (microtubule associated protein 2) did not. After 24-48 hours of radiation, N-CAM were not detected on the matrix cell layer. After 72-96 hours of radiation, N-CAM staining recovered to a normal pattern. In conclusion, low dose radiation of 15-20 cGy gave rise to neuronal migration delay and it was suggested that N-CAM may be related to neuronal migration as one of the mechanisms involved. (author).

A new metal resistor bolometer has been developed by applying thin-film technology. It is composed of three layers, a 4-..mu..m-thick radiation absorber made of gold, a 7.5-..mu..m-thick kapton dielectric, and a 0.1-..mu..m-thick 5-k..cap omega.. gold resistor. This detector with the appropriate electronics shows a linear response to radiation power, including both neutral-particle emission and electromagnetic radiation from the soft x-ray part of the spectrum to the infrared. The bolometer has a very high operating reliability and sufficient suppression of ambient interference under extreme environmental conditions, such as high neutron and gamma radiation fluxes, high temperatures, mechanical vibrations, and strong electromagnetic fields. In plasma discharges in the ASDEX tokamak a radiation detection limit of 100 ..mu..W/cm/sup 2/ was obtained at a time resolution of 10 ms. The bolometers of an array can be calibrated in situ; the calibration data are reproducible and stable in time within +- 10%. Measurements in ASDEX which demonstrate the capability of the method are discussed.

Radiosurgery is a noninvasive procedure where spatially accurate and highly conformal doses of radiation are targeted at brain lesions with an ablative intent. Recently, radiosurgery has been established as an effective technique for local treatment of brain metastasis. After radiosurgery, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging plays an important role in the assessment of the therapeutic response and of any complications. The therapeutic approach depends on the imaging findings obtained after radiosurgery, which have a role in the decision making to perform additional invasive modalities (repeat resection, biopsy) to obtain a definite diagnosis and to improve the survival of patients. Conventional MR imaging findings are mainly based on morphological alterations of tumors. However, there are variable imaging findings of radiation-induced changes including radiation necrosis in the brain. Radiologists are sometimes confused by radiation-induced injuries, including radiation necrosis, that are seen on conventional MR imaging. The pattern of abnormal enhancement on follow-up conventional MR imaging closely mimics that of a recurrent brain metastasis. So, classifying newly developed abnormal enhancing lesions in follow-up of treated brain metastasis with correct diagnosis is one of the key goals in neuro-oncologic imaging. To overcome limitations of the use of morphology-based conventional MR imaging, several physiological-based functional MR imaging methods have been used, namely diffusion-weighted imaging, perfusion MR imaging, and proton MR spectroscopy, for the detection of hemodynamic, metabolic, and cellular alterations. These imaging modalities provide additional information to allow clinicians to make proper decisions regarding patient treatment.

The high-energy pulse electron beam (HEPE) is a new method for mutation breeding. Previously, we demonstrated that HEPE radiation improved thermotolerance and ethanol production of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To investigate the influence of HEPE on yeast molecular and cellular damage, cells were separately treated with HEPE radiation at different doses (0, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1,000,1,200 and 1,400 Gy),. Based on results obtained, protein leakage and diffusion of intracellular nucleotide and propidium iodide (PI) uptake assays showed that HEPE clearly enhanced the cell membrane permeability of yeast depending on the dose of exposure. Yeast cells treated with HEPE radiation had significantly elevated levels of DNA instability, as detected by the chromosome spreading assay. These results correlated well with the measurement of increased levels of chromosomal aberrations and apoptosis. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and caspase 3 activity were also measured in HEPE-applied yeast cells. Caspase 3 appeared to be involved in HEPE-induced apoptosis. Use of dihydroethidium staining and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) showed increased levels of intracellular ROS as a consequence of augmented pulsing. Moreover, yeast cells retained some photoreactivation capacity when the dose of HEPE exposure was less than 600 Gy. Thereafter, the level of damage was too serious to repair. Thus, photoreactivation had a repair effect upon HEPE radiation-induced damage. The results of our studies provide a possible explanation for the molecular and cellular effects of HEPE radiation upon S. cerevisiae. PMID:23142492

Radiation damage can inter alia result in lipid peroxidation of macroalgal cell membranes. To prevent photo-oxidation within the cells, photoprotective substances such as phlorotannins are synthesized. In the present study, changes in total fatty acids (FA), FA composition and intra/extracellular phlorotannin contents were determined by gas chromatography and the Folin-Ciocalteu method to investigate the photoprotective potential of phlorotannins to prevent lipid peroxidation. Alaria esculenta juveniles (Phaeophyceae) were exposed over 20 days to high/low photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in combination with UV radiation (UVR) in the treatments: PAB (low/high PAR + UV-B + UV-A), PA (low/high PAR + UV-A) or low/high PAR only. While extracellular phlorotannins increased after 10 days, intracellular phlorotannins increased with exposure time and PA and decreased under PAB. Interactive effects of time:radiation wavebands, time:PAR dose as well as radiation wavebands:PAR dose were observed. Low FA contents were detected in the PA and PAB treatments; interactive effects were observed between time:high PAR and PAB:high PAR. Total FA contents were correlated to extra/intracellular phlorotannin contents. Our results suggest that phlorotannins might play a role in intra/extracellular protection by absorption and oxidation processes. Changes in FA content/composition upon UVR and high PAR might be considered as an adaptive mechanism of the A. esculenta juveniles subjected to variations in solar irradiance. PMID:21958385

Ionizing radiation is a potent inducer of DNA damage because it causes single- and double-strand breaks, alkali-labile sites, base damage, and crosslinks. The interest in ionizing radiation is due to its environmental and clinical implications. Single-strand breaks, which are the initial damage induced by a genotoxic agent, can be used as a biomarker of exposure, whereas the more biologically relevant double-strand breaks can be analyzed to quantify the extent of damage. In the present study the effects of 137CS gamma-radiation at doses of 1, 5, and 10 Gray on DNA and subsequent repair by C3H10T1/2 cells (mouse embryo fibroblasts) were investigated. Two versions of the comet assay, a sensitive method for evaluating DNA damage, were implemented: the alkaline one to detect single-strand breaks, and the neutral one to identify double-strand breaks. The results show a good linear relation between DNA damage and radiation dose, for both single-strand and double-strand breaks. A statistically significant difference with respect to controls was found at the lowest dose of 1 Gy. Heterogeneity in DNA damage within the cell population was observed as a function of radiation dose. Repair kinetics showed that most of the damage was repaired within 2 h after irradiation, and that the highest rejoining rate occurred with the highest dose (10 Gy). Single-strand breaks were completely repaired 24 h after irradiation, whereas residual double-strand breaks were still present. This finding needs further investigation. PMID:12484548

1% of proton intensity at 1GeV, rapidly decreased than ... where the potential is greatest for detecting nearby cosmic accelerators… ? ? ? Kobayashi (2004) ... High energy electron (>TeV) measurement via synchrotron radiation. • Detect x- ray ...

remote sensing became a tool used to detect human features on the contemporary landscape. ... magnetic radiation penetrate clouds, smoke, and vegetation, allowing detection of features ..... made of turkey feathers kept them warm. Module 4 ...

Nowadays in Russia and abroad there are several groups of scientists, engaged in development of systems based on ``tagged'' neutron method (API method) and intended for detection of dangerous materials, including high explosives (HE). Particular attention is paid to possibility of detection of dangerous objects inside a sea cargo container. Energy gamma-spectrum, registered from object under inspection is used for determination of oxygen/carbon and nitrogen/carbon chemical ratios, according to which dangerous object is distinguished from not dangerous one. Material of filled container, however, gives rise to additional effects of rescattering and moderation of 14 MeV primary neutrons of generator, attenuation of secondary gamma-radiation from reactions of inelastic neutron scattering on objects under inspection. These effects lead to distortion of energy gamma-response from examined object and therefore prevent correct recognition of chemical ratios. These difficulties are taken into account in analytical method, presented in the paper. Method has been validated against experimental data, obtained by the system for HE detection in sea cargo, based on API method and developed in VNIIA. Influence of shielding materials on results of HE detection and identification is considered. Wood and iron were used as shielding materials. Results of method application for analysis of experimental data on HE simulator measurement (tetryl, trotyl, hexogen) are presented.

Radiative capture of proton or alpha nuclei play a crucial role in most stellar environments. The study of those reactions in the laboratory has been very successful since the early days of nuclear astrophysics. The standard experimental method is the detection of the gamma-rays characteristic of a radiative capture reaction induced by a proton or Helium beam on a stable target. However cosmic, environmental and beam induced background hamper measurement at low energy where the cross section is the most relevant. Moreover, the standard method does not allow the study of reaction involving unstable nuclei. An alternative technique consists of reversing the reaction, i.e. bombarding a hydrogen or Helium target with a heavy beam. The products of reaction and the beam that did not interact in the target are, after the target, contained in a narrow forward cone. A recoil separator is then used to transport the products of reaction in a detection system while the beam is deflected. The detection of the charged reaction product is more efficient than gamma-ray detection and is not affected by the standard background. Moreover, this method allows studies of reaction involving radioactive ions. At the Nuclear Science Laboratory of the University of Notre Dame, a recoil mass separator, St. George, has been designed and constructed. St. George will allow the study of Helium radiative capture by induced stable ions. This device is particularly well suited to measure cross section at low energy due to its large angular and energy acceptance. A new accelerator dedicated to the acceleration of ions with mass up to 50 is presently under commissioning and will be coupled to St. George. This work is supported by the National Science Foundation under Grants No. PHY01-40324 and PHY08-22648, the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics.

In this work, the requirements of detector-grade semiconductor materials for radiation detectors, applicable in X-ray digital radiology, are identified. The study includes 12 various bulk semi-insulating (SI) GaAs single crystals grown by LEC and VGF methods, undoped and Cr-doped, obtained from 8 different suppliers. Conductivity, Hall, glow discharge mass spectrometry (GDMS), etch pit density (EPD), scanning electron beam induced current (S-EBIC), X-ray and laser scattering tomography (LST) techniques are used for the bulk SI GaAs material evaluation. The radiation detectors fabricated on these SI GaAs single crystals have been characterized by capacitance methods and their performances have been evaluated from detected pulse height spectra of 57Co. The correlation between the physical ch...

A method and apparatus for determining the position of a valve for example ball valves, plug valves, gate valves using a source of radiation such as cesium-137 located either on or adjacent to the external surface of the valve or within the valve itself, for example in the ball of a ball valve, and a radiation detector such as a Geiger-Muller tube on the external surface of the valve. Source and detector are aligned and located relative to one another so that the count rate detected is indicative of the valve position. The method is accurate and, for example, allows the position of the ball in a ball valve to be monitored to within /sub +/ or /sub -/1 mm.

Purpose: To retrospectively determine the accuracy of T2-weighted endorectal MR imaging in the detection of prostate cancer after external beam radiation therapy and to investigate the relationship between imaging accuracy and time since therapy. Materials and Methods: Institutional review board approval was obtained and the study was HIPPA compliant. We identified 59 patients who underwent 1.5 Tesla endorectal MR imaging of the prostate between 1999 and 2006 after definitive external beam radiation therapy for biopsy-proven prostate cancer. Two readers recorded the presence or absence of tumor on T2-weighted images. Logistic regression and Fisher's exact tests for 2x2 tables were used to determine the accuracy of imaging and investigate if accuracy differed between those imaged within 3 years of therapy (n = 25) and those imaged more than 3 years after therapy (n = 34). Transrectal biopsy was used as the standard of reference for the presence or absence of recurrent cancer. Results: Thirty-four of 59 patients (58%) had recurrent prostate cancer detected on biopsy. The overall accuracy of T2-weighted MR imaging in the detection cancer after external beam radiation therapy was 63% (37/59) for reader 1 and 71% for reader 2 (42/59). For both readers, logistic regression showed no difference in accuracy between those imaged within 3 years of therapy and those imaged more than 3 years after therapy (p = 0.86 for reader 1 and 0.44 for reader 2). Conclusion: T2-weighted endorectal MR imaging has low accuracy in the detection of prostate cancer after external beam radiation therapy, irrespective of the time since therapy. (author)

Aerosols affect the Earth's albedo and shortwave radiation balance by scattering and absorption of sunlight. It appears that the radiative effect of aerosols strongly depends on the underlying scene, whether it is dark or bright. For example, absorbing aerosols above a bright cloud can lower the albedo of the cloud and thereby perform a strong heating effect. However, it is difficult to obtain quantitative information from satellites on this direct aerosol effect. The reason is that most aerosol detection algorithms fail in the presence of clouds, because cloudy scenes are considered to be too bright to allow aerosol retrieval. This detection problem can be avoided by the use of the absorbing aerosol index (AAI) to detect absorbing aerosols. The AAI is a differential spectral index to identify UV absorbing aerosols, like desert dust and smoke. The strength of the AAI aerosol detection method is that it works equally well for land and sea surfaces, and that it works even in the presence of clouds. Global information on absorbing aerosols over clouds have been obtained with the satellite instrument SCIAMACHY on Envisat. SCIAMACHY measures the Earth's reflectance from 240 to 1750 nm, i.e. the major part of the shortwave spectrum. We focus on clouds and smoke from biomass burning in Southern Africa. It appears that clouds that exist in the presence of smoke aerosols have a typical reflectance spectrum, with a lower reflectance in the UV and visible than clouds without smoke. This lower reflectance is caused by the light absorption by smoke aerosols above and inside the clouds, which is strongly wavelength-dependent. From integration of the measured reflectance spectrum of these smoke-polluted clouds over the SCIAMACHY wavelength range, we obtain a direct estimate of the shortwave absorption of polluted clouds. The measured radiative forcing effect is interpreted with an accurate doubling-adding radiative transfer model.

A testing method for the detection of performance degradation induced by high-dose irradiation in high-energy experiments has been developed. The method used is based on a fault signature generation defined on the basis of the state-space analysis for linear circuits. By sampling the response of the circuit under test (CUT) to a single rectangular pulse, a set of parameters {alpha} are evaluated which are functions of the circuit singularities and constitute a signature for the CUT. Amplitude perturbations of these parameters engendered by element drift failure indicate a possible faulty condition. The effects of radiation induced faults in the analogue CMOS front-end of a silicon pixel detector employed in high energy physics experiments has been investigated. The results show that, even for the 800 krad dose, the test devised is able to detect the degradation of the amplifier performances. The results show also that hardened devices do not necessarily produce high circuit immunity to radiation and the proposed test method provides a mean to detect these performance deviations and to monitor them during the operating life of the chip. (A.C.)

In many countries ionising radiation is increasingly used for microbial decontamination of dry food ingredients, such as spices and herbs, because this treatment causes minimal chemical alteration and few, if any, detectable changes in the flavour of spices. However, many health authorities and consumer organisations demand unequivocal tests for identification of irradiated foods. Due to the diversity and delicate chemical composition of spices, there is very little chance of developing routine chemical methods to detect a specific radiolytic product in dry spices and herbs, physical methods appear to have greater potential. Significant reduction of the gel-forming capability after irradiation could be observed in several spices. Degradation caused by ionising radiation in the volatile oils, lipids, carotenoids and starch is indicated in the near infrared (NIR) wavelength region by changes in the reflectance spectrum. The low doses of ionising radiation (for inhibition of the sprouting of tubers and bulbs) as a consequence of some histological characteristics, induce changes in the electrical impedance and derived quantities. (author).

When tooth enamel is exposed to ionizing radiation, radicals are formed, which can be detected using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques. EPR dosimetry using tooth enamel is based on the (presumed) correlation between the intensity or amplitude of some of the radiation-induced signals with the dose absorbed in the enamel. In the present paper a critical review is given of this widely applied dosimetric method. The first part of the paper is fairly fundamental and deals with the main properties of tooth enamel and some of its model systems (e.g., synthetic apatites). Considerable attention is also paid to the numerous radiation-induced and native EPR signals and the radicals responsible for them. The relevant methods for EPR detection, identification and spectrum analyzing are reviewed from a general point of view. Finally, the needs for solid-state modelling and studies of the linearity of the dose response are investigated. The second part is devoted to the practical implementation of EPR dosimetry using enamel. It concerns specific problems of preparation of samples, their irradiation and spectrum acquisition. It also describes how the dosimetric signal intensity and dose can be retrieved from the EPR spectra. Special attention is paid to the energy dependence of the EPR response and to sources of uncertainties. Results of and problems encountered in international intercomparisons and epidemiological studies are also dealt with. In the final section the future of EPR dosimetry with tooth enamel is analyzed.

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A number of methods has been developed for the detection of irradiated foods in recent years, and in the case of mushrooms several methods have been proposed, of which the thermoluminescence (TL) measurements seem to be the most valuable. However, in several cases mineral contamination of fresh mushrooms is so extremely low that not enough minerals can be isolated for TL analysis. In that case an alternative method is needed to detect the radiation treatment of mushrooms. Several methods including TTC (2,3,5-triphenyl-tetrazolium-chloride) staining, kinetin treatment, dropping out of spores and mirco-gel electrophoresis of spores, were tested, but the most promising method was the GC/MS analysis of radiation-induced lipid-derived hydrocarbons in spite of the low fat content - around 0.2-0.3% - of mushrooms. Successful results were achieved by GC/MS analysis of the radiolytic hydrocarbons. Although mushrooms have a low fat content, by extracting a large quantity, in this case 500 g of mushrooms, about 1.2-1.5 g of fat could be obtained. The main fatty acids of mushroom fat and some of their expected cleavage products on irradiation - the c[sub n-1] hydrocarbon which has one C atom less than the parent fatty acid and the C[sub n-2:1] hydrocarbon, which has two C atoms less and an additional double bond in position 1 - are given. (orig./Vhe)

The dosimetry component of the Center for Radiation Engineering and Science for Space Exploration (CRESSE) will design, develop and characterize the response of a suite of radiation detectors and supporting instrumentation and electronics with three primary goals that will: (1) Use established space radiation detection systems to characterize the primary and secondary radiation fields existing in the experimental test-bed zones during exposures at particle accelerator facilities. (2) Characterize the responses of newly developed space radiation detection systems in the experimental test-bed zones during exposures at particle accelerator facilities, and (3) Provide CRESSE collaborators with detailed dosimetry information in experimental test-bed zones.

Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are a major threat to Canadian and allies troups involved in peacekeeping and minor conflict operations and despite their relative low technology they represent a major challenge in terms of detection and countermeasures. In order to provide tools to detect these threats, Defence Research & Development Canada - Valcartier initiated a research project to the feasibility of using terahertz (THz) radiations to detect and identify the presence of commonly used explosives and concealed weapons in a standoff method. This paper presents the initial results of the first year of the project and the future directions. A compact THz time domain spectroscopy was developed to build a THz signature table of commonly used explosives.

A method and apparatus for a Surface-Enhanced Raman Optical Data Storage (SERODS) System is disclosed. A medium which exhibits the Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) phenomenon has data written onto its surface of microenvironment by means of a write-on procedure which disturbs the surface or microenvironment of the medium and results in the medium having a changed SERS emission when excited. The write-on procedure is controlled by a signal that corresponds to the data to be stored so that the disturbed regions on the storage device (e.g., disk) represent the data. After the data is written onto the storage device it is read by exciting the surface of the storage device with an appropriate radiation source and detecting changes in the SERS emission to produce a detection signal. The data is then reproduced from the detection signal.

Large area optical detection systems are required for applications including cell imaging, spectroscopy, nuclear medicine, bio diagnostics, radiation detection and high energy physics. Each of these applications requires that a detector or detector arrays be closely coupled with light sources or optical couplers such as fibres or light couplers. In this paper, the scaling of novel Silicon Photomultiplier detectors to tile across a large area is presented. In particular, a novel method is discussed for compact packaging of SPM detectors into a tiled 2D detector array for large area imaging and 2D spatial detection. The SPM detector has performance characteristics comparable to vacuum photon multiplier tubes used in these applications today but offers several performance and system design advantages including spatial resolution, optical over exposure, small form factor, weight, magnetic insensitivity and low bias operation.

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory are developing means to collect and identify fluid-based biological pathogens in the forms of proteins, viruses, and bacteria. To support detection instruments, we are developing a flexible fluidic sample preparation unit. The overall goal of this Microfluidic Module is to input a fluid sample, containing background particulates and potentially target compounds, and deliver a processed sample for detection. We are developing techniques for sample purification, mixing, and filtration that would be useful to many applications including immunologic and nucleic acid assays. Sample preparation functions are accomplished with acoustic radiation pressure, dielectrophoresis, and solid phase extraction. We are integrating these technologies into packaged systems with pumps and valves to control fluid flow and investigating small-scale detection methods.

Cone-beam CT (CBCT) is being increasingly used in modern radiation therapy. However, as compared to conventional CT, the degraded image quality of CBCT hampers its applications in radiation therapy. Due to the large volume of x-ray illumination, scatter is considered as one of the fundamental limitations of CBCT image quality. Many scatter correction algorithms have been proposed in the literature, while drawbacks still exist. In this work, we propose a correction algorithm which is particularly useful in radiation therapy. Since the same patient is scanned repetitively during one radiation treatment course, we measure the scatter distribution in one scan, and use the measured scatter distribution to estimate and correct scatter in the following scans. A partially blocked CBCT is used in the scatter measurement scan. The x-ray beam blocker has a strip pattern, such that the whole-field scatter distribution can be estimated from the detected signals in the shadow region and the patient rigid transformation can be determined from the reconstructed image using the illuminated detector projection data. From the derived patient transformation, the measured scatter is then modified accordingly and used for scatter correction in the following regular CBCT scans. The proposed method has been evaluated using Monte Carlo simulations and physical experiments on an anthropomorphic chest phantom. The results show a significant suppression of scatter artifacts using the proposed method. Using the reconstruction in a narrow collimator geometry as a reference, the comparison also shows that the proposed method reduces reconstruction error from 13.2% to 3.8%. The proposed method is attractive in applications where a high CBCT image quality is critical, for example, dose calculation in adaptive radiation therapy.

The paper presents selected laser systems used for remote detection of contamination and pollution of atmosphere. Having in view a way of taking samples for analysis, the methods used for atmosphere monitoring can be divided into two groups: sampling at the place of existing pollution and remote detection, identification, and measurement of concentration. "Stand-off" and "remote" systems of atmosphere monitoring are described here. The "stand-off" systems provide detection of pollution (gas, aerosol, smoke, dust) at long distances, without the contact with a contaminated area. These systems are active laser systems (lidars) or passive thermal systems with narrow filters matched to the bands of gas absorption and imaging the transmission changes of radiation absorbed along the path of gas presence. A single "stand-off" station can cover significant area, the size of which depends on the range of sampling radiation, field of view, and scanning speed. "Remote" systems employ various types of small point sensors and the data from these sensors are transmitted by wire or wireless connections to alarm centres. It should be pointed out that in this case, a contact between sensor and analysed area is necessary and remote detection is performed by the transmission systems of measurement data. The paper presents construction, principle of operation, and basic analytical characteristics of the chosen "standoff" and "remote" measuring systems developed at Military University of Technology, devoted to continuous monitoring of contaminations and pollution of atmosphere.

Radiation portal monitors used for interdiction of illicit materials at borders include highly sensitive neutron detection systems. The main reason for having neutron detection capability is to detect fission neutrons from plutonium. The currently deployed radiation portal monitors (RPMs) from Ludlum and Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) use neutron detectors based upon 3He-filled gas proportional counters, which are the most common large neutron detector. There is a declining supply of 3He in the world, and thus, methods to reduce the use of this gas in RPMs with minimal changes to the current system designs and sensitivity to cargo-borne neutrons are being investigated. Four technologies have been identified as being currently commercially available, potential alternative neutron detectors to replace the use of 3He in RPMs. These technologies are: 1) Boron trifluoride (BF3)-filled proportional counters, 2) Boron-lined proportional counters, 3) Lithium-loaded glass fibers, and 4) Coated non-scintillating plastic fibers. In addition, a few other companies have detector technologies that might be competitive in the near term as an alternative technology. Reported here are the results of tests of a boron-lined, multichamber proportional counter manufactured by LND, Inc. Also reported are results obtained with an earlier design of conventional, boron-lined, proportional counters from LND. This testing measured the required performance for neutron detection efficiency and gamma-ray rejection capabilities of the detectors.

Some clones of Tradescantia had dose response relationship involving somatic mutations such as appearance of pink, colorless or giant cell, and/or loss of reproductive integrity of stamen hair cells when exposed to radiation. Since Tradescantia could respond to radiation level as low as human being could be exposed to, it could play an important role as scientific tool of botanical tester for radiation. Especially TSH system can be easily applied to in situ monitoring of radiation by virtue of its excellent radiation indicator ship and simpleness in detection of mutations by radiation. 10 figs, 6 tabs, 19 refs. (Author).

The effects of {sup 60} Co ionizing radiations in doses of 0; 0.5; 1.5; 2.5; 5.0 and 10 kGy on beans, Phaseolus vulgaris L., of the carioca variety and Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp, of the macacar variety stored for 6 months were studied. The cooking time was established, and then the following analyses were carried out: Sensory, vitamins B{sub 1}, B{sub 2} and B{sub 6} protein content, biological evaluation in rats (Food intake and Weight gain (in grams)), apparent Digestibility (Dapp), apparent Net Protein Utilization (NPUapp) and apparent Biological Value (BVapp), as well as the applicability of detection methods of irradiated foodstuffs through germination tests, the analysis of DNA migration, thermoluminescence and analysis of the carbohydrates formed by radiation. Changes in the cooking time were observed for all doses. In doses up to 1 kGy, the nutritional quality of the irradiated beans were not altered. The application of the proposed detection methods of the irradiated foodstuffs allowed the detection of irradiated beans with doses as low as 0.5 kGy. (author)

Indirect radionuclide renocystography (IRRCG) is a method for the detection of vesico-ureteral reflux by analysis of the activity-time curves over the kidneys and bladder during voiding of urine about 30 min after intravenous administration of a radioactive indicator. This paper presents a new method for detection of reflux by a statistical test, the magnitude of the reflux is evaluated by the reflux volume per 1.73 m/sup 2/ body-surface area. Residual urine volume and urine voiding efficiency are also calculated. In a retrospective study of 154 children examined for renal and urological diseases consisting mainly of urinary tract infections, vesico-ureteral reflux was found by IRRCG in 16% of the kidneys (23% of the children). Reflux volumes were below 10 ml/1.73 m/sup 2/ in 90% of the children with reflux. The mode value of the reflux volume was 2 ml/1.73 m/sup 2/. For a subgroup of 97 children, the results were compared with micturating cysto-urethrography (MCU). This showed that a negative IRRCG in conjunction with the renal mean transit time of the radioactive indicator determined by gamma camera renography could be used as a screening test for vesico-ureteral reflux when MCU was considered a true reference method. Hence, about 75% of the invasive and high radiation dose MCU can be replaced by the non-invasive and low radiation dose IRRCG. The discrepancies between the two methods and the reasons for them are discussed.

A method and apparatus for processing step-like output signals generated by non-ideal, nominally single-pole ("N-1P") devices responding to possibly time-varying, pulse-like input signals of finite duration, wherein the goal is to recover the integrated areas of the input signals. Particular applications include processing step-like signals generated by detector systems in response to absorbed radiation or particles and, more particularly, to digitally processing such step-like signals in high resolution, high rate gamma ray (.gamma.-ray) spectrometers with resistive feedback preamplifiers connected to large volume germanium detectors. Superconducting bolometers can be similarly treated. The method comprises attaching a set of one or more filters to the device's (e.g., preamplifier's) output, capturing a correlated multiple output sample from the filter set in response to a detected event, and forming a weighted sum of the sample values to accurately recover the total area (e.g., charge) of the detected event.

During the 1960s, a small but vibrant community of cosmic ray physicists, pioneered novel optical methods of detecting extensive air showers (EAS) in the Earths atmosphere with the prime objective of searching for point sources of energetic cosmic Formula Not Shown . Throughout that decade, progress was extremely slow. Attempts to use the emission of optical Cherenkov [1] radiation from showers as a basis for TeV gamma-ray astronomy proved difficult and problematical, given the rather primitive light-collecting systems in use at the time, coupled with a practical inability to reject the overwhelming background arising from hadronic showers. Simultaneously, a number of groups experimented with passive detection of radio emission from EAS as a possible cheap, simple, stand-alone method to de...

Twenty-nine small (<5 cm) hepatocellular carcinomas in 18 patients were examined by radionuclide imaging (RN), ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), hepatic angiography, and serum ..cap alpha../sub 1/-fetoprotein (AFP) assay. Sensitivity was 39% with RN, 50% with US, 56% with CT, and 94% with angiography, including infusion hepatic angiography (IHA). Lesions larger than 3 cm could be detected by all of these methods; those between 2 and 3 cm were generally shown by US and CT but not RN. IHA was essential for diagnosis of lesions less than 2 cm, which were otherwise difficult or impossible to detect except with angiography. As a screening method, AFP was best, followed by US and CT. The authors recommend using AFP and US to minimize expense and radiation exposure. In questionable cases, IHA should be performed.

We investigate a possible new technique for microwave measurements of ultra-high energy cosmic ray (UHECR) extensive air showers which relies on detection of expected continuum radiation in the microwave range, caused by free-electron collisions with neutrals in the tenuous plasma left after the passage of the shower. We performed an initial experiment at the AWA (Argonne Wakefield Accelerator) laboratory in 2003 and measured broadband microwave emission from air ionized via high energy electrons and photons. A follow-up experiment at SLAC (Stanford Linear Accelerator Center) in summer of 2004 confirmed the major features of the previous AWA observations with better precision and made additional measurements relevant to the calorimetric capabilities of the method. Prompted by these results we built a prototype detector using satellite television technology, and have made measurements indicating possible detection of cosmic ray extensive air showers. The method, if confirmed by experiments now in progress, cou...

A multiplex coherent Raman spectrometer (10) and spectroscopy method rapidly detects and identifies individual components of a chemical mixture separated by a separation technique, such as gas chromatography. The spectrometer (10) and method accurately identify a variety of compounds because they produce the entire gas phase vibrational Raman spectrum of the unknown gas. This is accomplished by tilting a Raman cell (20) to produce a high-intensity, backward-stimulated, coherent Raman beam of 683 nm, which drives a degenerate optical parametric oscillator (28) to produce a broadband beam of 1100-1700 nm covering a range of more than 3000 wavenumber. This broadband beam is combined with a narrowband beam of 532 nm having a bandwidth of 0.003 wavenumbers and focused into a heated windowless cell (38) that receives gases separated by a gas chromatograph (40). The Raman radiation scattered from these gases is filtered and sent to a monochromator (50) with multichannel detection.

Chestnuts are a widely consumed fruit around the world, with Portugal being the fourth biggest producer in Europe. Storage of these nuts is an important step during processing, and the most widely used fumigant was banned in the European Union under the Montreal Protocol because of its toxicity. Recently, radiation has been introduced as a cheap and clean conservation method. Previous studies of our research group proved that ? radiation had no negative effect on the nutritional value of chestnuts; in fact, storage time had a much bigger influence on the chestnut quality. In the present study, we report the effect of a less ionizing radiation, electron beam, with doses of 0, 0.5, 1, 3, and 6 kGy in the nutritional value of chestnuts (ash, energy, fatty acids, sugars, and tocopherols), previously stored at 4 °C for 0, 30, and 60 days. The storage time seemed to reduce fat and energetic values but reported a tendency for higher values of dry matter. With regard to fatty acids, there was a higher detected quantity of C20:2 in non-irradiated samples and four fatty acids were only detected in trace quantities (C6:0, C8:0, C10:0, and C12:0). ?-Tocopherol decreased during storage time but did not alter its quantity for all of the radiation doses (as like ?-, ?-, and ?-tocopherol); in fact, these compounds were present in higher concentrations in the irradiated samples. Sucrose and total sugars were lower in non-irradiated samples, and raffinose was only detected in irradiated samples. Electron-beam irradiation seems to be a suitable methodology, because the effects on chemical and nutritional composition are very low, while storage time seems to be quite important in chestnut deterioration. PMID:22809396

Biomolecules can exhibit low-lying vibrational modes in the THz region which are detectable in transmission given a strong molecular dipole moment and optical depth, and a spectrometer of adequate sensitivity. The nucleic acids are particularly interesting because of applications such as label-free gene assay, bio-agent detection, etc. However for nucleic acids, sample preparation and THz coupling are of paramount importance because of the strong absorption by liquid water and the small concentration of molecules present in physiological solutions. Concentration methods become necessary to make the THz vibrational modes detectable, either by concentrating the nucleic-acid sample itself in a small volume but large area, or by concentrating the THz radiation down to the volume of the sample. This paper summarizes one type of the first method: nanofluidic channel arrays for biological nucleic acids; and two types of the second method: (1) a circular-waveguide pinhole, and (2) a circular-waveguide, conical-horn coupling structure, both for DNA crystals. The first method has been demonstrated on a very short artificial nucleic acid [small-interfering (si) RNA (17-to-25 bp)] and a much longer, biological molecule [Lambda-phage DNA (48.5 kbp)]. The second method has been demonstrated on small (~100 micron) single crystals of DNA grown by the sitting-drop method.

Small particles of gold foil detached from an indoor decoration might be important evidence to associate a suspect with a crime scene. We have investigated the application of elemental analysis using synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to discriminate small particles of gold foil. Eight kinds of gold foil samples collected in Japan were used in the experiments. As a result of synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, only two elements, gold and silver, were detected from all gold foil samples. The intensity ratios of AgK?/AuL? showed good correlation with the content ratios of Ag/Au. The variation of intensity ratio within a same sample was sufficiently small compared with those of different samples. Therefore the comparison of this intensity ratio can be an effective method to discriminate small particles originating from different types of gold foil.   

An apparatus and method for rapidly reading thermoluminescent phosphors to determine the amount of luminescent energy stored therein. The stored luminescent energy is interpreted as a measure of the total exposure of the thermoluminescent phosphor to ionizing radiation. The thermoluminescent phosphor reading apparatus uses a laser to generate a laser beam. The laser beam power level is monitored by a laser power detector and controlled to maintain the power level nearly constant. A shutter or other laser beam interrupting means is used to control exposure of the thermoluminescent phosphor to the laser beam. The laser beam can be equalized using an optical equalizer so that the laser beam has an approximately uniform power density across the beam. The heated thermoluminescent phosphor emits a visible or otherwise detectable luminescent emission which is measured as an indication of the radiation exposure of the thermoluminescent phosphors. Also disclosed are preferred signal processing and control circuits.

The potential benefits of using compound semiconductors for X-ray and gamma ray spectroscopy are already well known. Radiation detectors based on high atomic number and wide band gap compound semiconductors show high detection efficiency and good spectroscopic performance even at room temperature. Despite these appealing properties, incomplete charge collection is a critical issue. Generally, incomplete charge collection, mainly due to the poor transport properties of the holes, produces energy resolution worsening and the well known hole tailing in the measured spectra. In this work, we present a digital pulse processing (DPP) system for high resolution spectroscopy with compound semiconductor radiation detectors. The DPP method, implemented on a PC platform, performs a height and shape a...

Summary In 1995, Hellmann and Weichselbaum defined for the first time the term oligometastases which is used to describe limited metastasis with a maximum of 3-4 clinically detectable metastases. It is assumed that these patients have a better prognosis and that local treatment of the metastases plays a significant part in the further development of the disease. Therefore, these patients could benefit from a curative local therapy of the manifested metastases. Local therapy measures include mainly radiotherapeutic methods alongside invasive ablative processes, such as surgical resection and radiofrequency ablation. Patients subjected to radiation therapy benefit especially from the usage of modern precision technology as it reduces the radiation exposure to the normal tissue, and because s...

The LHCb Detector is a single-arm spectrometer at the LHC designed to detect new physics through measuring CP violation and rare decays of heavy flavor mesons. The detector consists of vertex detector, tracking system, dipole magnet, 2 RICH detectors, em. calorimeter, hadron calorimeter, muon detector which all use different technologies and suffer differently from radiation damage. These radiation damage results and the investigation methods will be shown. The delivered luminosity till July 2011 was about 450 pb?1. The Vertex detector receives the highest particle flux at LHCb. The currents drawn by the silicon sensors are, as expected, increasing proportional to the integrated luminosity. The highest irradiaton regions of the n-bulk silicon sensors are observed to have recently undergone space charge sign inversion. The Silicon Trackers show increasing leakage currents comparable with earlier predictions. The electromagentic calorimeter and hadron calorimeter suffer under percent-level signal decrease whi...

Large-volume cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) radiation detectors would greatly improve radiation detection capabilities and, therefore, attract extensive scientific and commercial interests. CZT crystals with volumes as large as hundreds of centimeters can be achieved today due to improvements in the crystal growth technology. However, the poor performance of large-volume CZT detectors is still a challenging problem affecting the commercialization of CZT detectors and imaging arrays. We have employed Pockels effect measurements and synchrotron X-ray mapping techniques to investigate the performance-limiting factors for large-volume CZT detectors. Experimental results with the above characterization methods reveal the non-uniform distribution of internal electric field of large-volume CZT detectors, which help us to better understand the responsible mechanism for the insufficient carrier collection in large-volume CZT detectors.