Cross-Calibration and Comparison of Variability in Two Bone Densitometers in a Research Setting: The Framingham Experience

Science.gov (United States)

Gagnon, David R.; McLean, Robert R.; Hannan, Marian T.; Cupples, L. Adrienne; Hogan, Mary; Kiel, Douglas P.

2010-01-01

New technology introduced over time results in changes in densitometers during longitudinal studies of bone mineral density (BMD). This requires that a cross-calibration process be completed to translate measurements from the old densitometer to the new one. Previously described cross-calibration methods for research settings have collected single measures on each densitometer and used linear regression to estimate cross-calibration corrections. Thus, these methods may produce corrections that have limited precision and underestimate the variability in converted BMD values. Furthermore, most prior studies have included small samples recruited from specialized populations. Increasing the sample size, obtaining multiple measures on each machine, and utilizing linear mixed models to account for between- and within-subject variability may improve cross-calibration estimates. The purpose of this study was to conduct an in vivo cross-calibration of a Lunar DPX-L with a Lunar Prodigy densitometer using a sample of 249 healthy volunteers who were scanned twice on each densitometer, without repositioning, at both the femur and spine. Scans were analyzed using both automated and manual placement of regions of interest. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and Bland-Altman plots were used to examine possible differences between repeat scans within and across densitometers. We used linear mixed models to determine the cross-calibration equations for the femoral neck, trochanter, total hip and lumbar spine (L2-L4) regions. Results using automated and manual placement of the regions of interest did not differ significantly The DPX–L exhibited larger median absolute differences in repeat scans for femoral neck [0.016 vs. 0.012, p=0.1] and trochanter [0.011 vs. 0.009, p=0.06] BMD values compared to the Prodigy. The Bland-Altman plots revealed no statistically significant linear relation between the difference in paired measures between machines and mean BMD. In our large sample of healthy

Performance evaluation of a drag-disc turbine transducer and three-beam gamma densitometer under transient two-phase flow conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nalezny, C.L.; Chen, L.L.; Solbrig, C.W.

1979-01-01

One of the primary variables measured in the Loss-of-Fluid Test (LOFT) Program is mass flow rate. LOFT uses drag-disc turbine tranducers (DTT) and a three-beam gamma densitometer to measure parameters from which mass flow may be computed. The transducer combination was performance tested under transient conditions in the blowdown loop at the LOFT Test Support Facility (LTSF). The performance tests consisted of three partial blowdowns of different durations starting from the same initial conditions. The reference mean mass flow rate was determined by measuring the amount of water required to reestablish initial conditions after each partial blowdown. The average mass flow rates computed from the output of the drag disc, turbine, and gamma densitometer were compared to the reference mean mass flow rates over three blowdown intervals. The tests indicated that the equal phase velocity mass measurement model provided excellent results through the use of the turbine and densitometer, and drag disc and densitometer when the phase velocities were nearly equal

Absolute lung densitometer incorporating a Gd-153 source and CdTe detectors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kaufman, L.; Gamsu, G.; Savoca, C.; Swann, S.

1976-01-01

A low-cost portable non-invasive densitometer is described. While the present system is optimized for lung densitometry, similar configurations can be used for bone densitometry and in industrial applications

MAGNETIC DENSITOMETER

Science.gov (United States)

McCann, J.A.; Jones, R.H.

1961-08-15

A magnetic densitometer for locating defects and metallic inclusions in materials is described. The apparatus consists of two primary coils connected in series opposition and adapted te be placed in inductive relation to the material under test, a source of constant frequency alternating current coupled across the primary coil combination, a pick-up coil disposed in symmetrical inductive relationship with said primary coils, a phase-shifter coupled to the output of the energizing source. The output of the phase-shifter is coupled in series with the pick-up coil. An amplifier is provided selective to the third harmonic of the energizing source frequency. The series combination of the pick-up coil and the phase-shifter output are connected across the input of the amplifier, and an amplitude comparitor is coupled to the output of the amplifier and the energizing source for comparing the instantaneous amplitude of the amplifier output and the instantaneous output of the energizing source and producing an output proportional to the difference in amplitude. A recorder is coupled to the output of the amplitude comparison means to give an indication of the amplitude difference, thereby providing a permanent presentation of the character of the changes in characteristics exhibited by the material under test. (AEC)

Development of multiphase meter using gamma densitometer concept

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Babelli, I.M.M.

1997-01-01

The ability to accurately predict the void fraction of the different phases flowing in a conduit is of extreme importance to the nuclear and oil industries, among others. Some of the major obstacles in performing accurate measurements result directly from the operating conditions of the system involved. The case study in this paper will focus on the issue of predicting the volumetric fraction in oil transport pipelines. Gamma densitometer utilizes the concept of gamma attenuation in matter where the magnitude of attenuation is directly related to the density of the material through which the gamma ray passes, and to the intensity of the ray itself By calibrating the gamma ray with a variety of known flow geometries, one can extrapolate the findings to cover all ranges of flow regimes present in a large horizontal pipe, typical of an oil transport pipeline. The advantage of using gamma densitometers is that it is a non-intrusive technique, relatively inexpensive and portable. Its main disadvantage is that the collimated beam of the gamma ray will produce a line averaged value and local information can not be obtained. Another disadvantage has to do with the necessity to increase the strength of the gamma source with increase in the thickness and/or density of the pipe wall which will require increased radiation protection and reduces portability

Evaluation of automatic densitometer with laser diode

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Larrea Cox, Pedro J.; Hernandez Tabares, Lorenzo; Suarez San Pedro, Cirilo E.; Vazquez Cano, Aradys; Reyes Rodriguez, Marlen de los

2009-01-01

The evaluation of a prototype of an automatic transmission scanning densitometer is presented. It contains a semiconductor diode laser as a light source, and is mainly oriented to the analysis of protein electrophoresis. It was developed on the Center for Technological Applications and Nuclear Development (CEADEN). Its technical specifications were established and certified by the National Institute of Researches on Metrology (INIMET), and also the equipment was submitted for assays to the Process Control Laboratory, that belongs to the 'Adalberto Pesant' Enterprise for Sera and Hemo derivatives Products, in Havana city, where it was employed to the partial quality control of products that are made there, achieving satisfactory results. (Author)

A Comparison of Radiographic Film Densitometry Using a New Computerized Tool with a Digital Densitometer

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Hoorieh Bashizadeh Fakhar

2016-11-01

Full Text Available Objectives: The purpose of this study was to develop and test a new tool for radiographic densitometry by combining periapical films and aluminum step wedge.Materials and Methods: We reviewed 50 Kodak E-speed intraoral films. An aluminum step wedge consisting of 16 steps was constructed. Each step was 1mmx3mx10mm. The step wedge was exposed to varying exposure times, ranging from 0.05 second to 0.5 second, increasing in 0.05 second increments. Films were digitalized after processing and the MATLAB software algorithm was ran subsequently. Density of the films was measured again using a digital densitometer. In order to compare the two imaging techniques, three steps were selected. Output data from the MATLAB algorithm were compared with data obtained from the digital densitometer.Results: The new method could detect significant differences between subsequent exposure times in step 7, while the densitometer did that in steps 7 and 12. The new method’s sensitivity in determining density changes was 5.26%, 84.1% and 93.02% in steps 2, 7, and 12 respectively.Conclusions: Our new method has an acceptable sensitivity for determining density changes of at least 7 mmEq/Al.Keywords: Densitometry; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; Aluminum; Phantoms, Imaging

Calibration of X-ray densitometers for the determination of uranium and plutonium concentrations in reprocessing input and product solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ottmar, H.; Eberle, H.; Michel-Piper, I.; Kuhn, E.; Johnson, E.

1985-11-01

In June 1985 a calibration exercise has been carried out, which included the calibration of the KfK K-Edge Densitometer for uranium assay in the uranium product solutions from reprocessing, and the calibration of the Hybrid K-Edge/K-XRF Instrument for the determination of total uranium and plutonium in reprocessing input solutions. The calibration measuremnts performed with the two X-ray densitometers are described and analyzed, and calibration constants are evaluated from the obtained results. (orig.)

The hybrid K-edge/K-XRF densitometer: Principles - design - performance

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ottmar, H.; Eberle, H.

1991-02-01

The Euratom Safeguards Directorate (ESD) has recently installed a hybrid K-edge/K-XRF densitometer in a commerical reprocessing plant for the safeguarding of nuclear materials. This instrument, developed at KfK Karlsruhe, offers for the first time analytical measurement capabilities for timely on-site input accountancy verification. Lectures providing informations on measurement principles, instrument design features and performance data have been given to inspectors of ESD to make them familiar with the new instrument. This report summarizes the essential materials presented during these courses. (orig.) [de

Three-dimensional lung densitometer using CdTe detectors for diagnosis and evaluation of the progress of pulmonary edema

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kaufman, L; Gamsu, G; Savoca, C; Swann, S [California Univ., San Francisco (USA)

1977-02-01

A low-cost portable non-invasive densitometer is described. While the present system is optimized for lung densitometry, similar configurations can be used for bone densitometry and in industrial applications.

Multidetector bone densitometer for supine lateral vertebral scanning of the lumbar spine

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pommet, R.

1990-01-01

ORIS-ODX 240 bone densitometer is used to provide the density values of large group of women obtaining both frontal and lateral projection of the lumbar spine on each of them. This device is the prototype of Sophos L-XRA developed by CEA/DAMRI for SOPHA MEDICAL. It uses as photon source an X-ray tube with K-edge filtration (Neodyme oxide). The multidetector uses 24 NaI (Tl) scintillators, 24 PM tubes and 24 dual channel analyzers

Extended software for the KfK K-edge densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eberle, H.

1985-04-01

In order to further exploit the possibilities of the KfK K-edge densitometer, and to enlarge the range of its application, we have extended and modified the instrument's software. With the new software packages the instrument can now be used for analysis of the actinide elemments Th, U, Np, Pu and Am in single element solutions, and for the simultaneous assay of U and Pu in mixed U/Pu solutions. Provisions have been made for later extensions, allowing the analysis of additional elements combinations, if necessary. The report gives a short description of the new programs, and of the modifications to the previous programs. The listings and the corresponding programs are given in the Appendix. (orig./HP)

Application of gamma densitometer for measurement of void fraction in liquid hydrogen moderator of HANARO cold neutron source

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kim, Myong-Seop; Choi, Jungwoon; Sun, Gwang-Min; Lee, Kye-Hong

2009-01-01

The void fraction in the liquid hydrogen used for the moderator of the HANARO cold neutron source (CNS) was measured by using a gamma densitometer technique. A mock-up of the HANARO CNS facility with an electric heating system as the heat source instead of radiations was constructed. The photon transmissions through the hydrogen moderator were simulated to search for an optimum experimental condition. From the simulation, it was confirmed that Am-241 was suitable for the measurement of the void fraction in the liquid hydrogen medium. A gamma densitometer using the Am-241 gamma-ray source was designed and installed at the mock-up of the CNS. The attenuation of 59.5 keV gamma-rays from the Am-241 through the hydrogen medium was measured by using an HPGe detector. The void fraction was determined using the amount of the gamma-ray attenuation. The void fractions in the hydrogen moderator were measured for stable thermo-siphon loops with several electric heat loads applied to the moderator cell of the CNS mock-up. The longitudinal distribution of the void fraction inside the moderator cell was also determined. The void fraction measured at a heat load of 720 W had values of 8-41% depending on the height from the bottom of the moderator cell. The overall void fraction was obtained by volume-weighted averaging of its longitudinal distribution. The void fraction at the nuclear heating power expected at the normal operation condition of the HANARO CNS facility was determined to be about 20%. The large uncertainty was expected in the void fraction determination by a gamma densitometer for the liquid hydrogen medium with the void fraction less than 10%. When the void fraction of the liquid hydrogen was near 20%, the uncertainty in the void fraction determination by using a gamma densitometer became relatively small, and it was regarded as an acceptable level. The measurements for the void fraction will be very useful for the design and operation of the HANARO CNS.

X-ray L/sub III/-edge densitometer for assay of mixed S.N.M. solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Russo, P.A.; Canada, T.R.; Langner, D.G.; Tape, J.W.; Hsue, S.T.; Cowder, L.R.; Mosley, W.C.; Reynolds, L.; Thompson, M.C.

1979-01-01

Simultaneous nondestructive analysis of uranium and plutonium in coprocessed solutions is accomplished using L/sub III/-edge densitometry in at-line instrumentation. The densitometer measures the transmission through solutions of a continuous x-ray spectrum, and gives accuracies of approximately one-half percent and three percent for uranium and plutonium concentrations respectively

Application of gamma densitometer for void fraction measurement in the downcomer of DVI experimental apparatus

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chu, In Cheol; Kim, Y. K.; Yun, B. J.; Kwon, T. S.; Chung, M. K.; Song, C. H.

2000-11-01

KNGR which adopts the DVI type of ECCS is expected to show different thermal hydraulic aspects from existing NPPs which use the CLI type of ECCS. Therefore, it is necessary to examine whether existing safety analysis codes could correctly predict major thermal hydraulic phenomena which are inherent in SIS operation of DVI type. Among several thermal hydraulic phenomena, it is of particular importance to examine and improve the analyzing capability of existing codes for the void fraction and flow pattern in the downcomer. In the present study, the design of gamma densitometer to measure the void fraction and flow pattern in the downcomer of DVI test apparatus has been performed. In addition, provided are the requirements of gamma source, source activity, scintillation detector, and signal processing system. Also, the design of the shielding facilities has been carried out to ensure the safety of operator from the danger of radiation exposure. And finally the applicability of gamma densitometer to the density measurement of two-phase flow has been investigated throughout the preliminary tests

Development and performance evaluation of 32-channel gamma densitometer for the measurement of flow pattern and void fraction in the downcomer of MIDAS test facility

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chu, In Cheol; Kim, Y. K.; Yun, B. J.; Kwon, T. S.; Euh, D. J.; Song, C.

2002-03-01

APR 1400, which adopts DVI type of ECCS, is expected to show its unique thermal hydraulic phenomena. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate whether existing safety analysis code can correctly predict the thermal hydraulic phenomena. Among the several phenomena, void fraction and flow pattern govern the other major phenomena. Therefore, the main objective of the present study is to develop the 32-channel gamma densitometer which can measure the void fraction and flow pattern in the downcomer at various locations. The 32-channel gamma densitometer for MIDAS test apparatus has been developed. Throughout the performance evaluation test, the integrity of the 32 channel gamma densitometer has been validated. The measurement error of water film thickness is expected to be less than ±0.5mm. Also, it can correctly predict the flow patterns and the transition location of flow pattern in the downcomer of MIDAS test apparatus

Improvements in or relating to densitometers for use with radiation film dosimeters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Benbow, T.G.; Stevenson, W.J.; Taylor, N.A.

1978-01-01

A densitometer for use with radiation films is described that comprises: means for locating a developed film; means for locating a plurality of infra-red sources relative to said film-locating means so that, when a film is located, the infra-red radiation from each source is received by a predetermined separate area of the film; means for locating a corresponding plurality of infra-red sensors in register with said sources to receive the infra-red radiation therefrom transmitted through each said area of the film; and means for measuring and indicating the output of each sensor. (author)

Plutonium isotopic assay of reprocessing product solutions in the KfK K-edge densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eberle, H.; Ottmar, H.; Matussek, P.

1985-04-01

The KfK K-edge densiometer, designed for accurate element concentration measurements using the technique of X-ray absorptiometry at the K absorption edge, provides as an additional option the possibility to determine the isotopic composition of freshly separated plutonium from an gamma-spectrometric analysis of its self-radiation. This report describes the underlying methodology and experimental procedures for the isotopic analysis in the K-edge densitometer. The paper also presents and discusses the experimental results so far obtained from routine measurements on reprocessing product solutions. (orig.)

Precision of different quantitative ultrasound densitometers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pocock, N.A.; Harris, N.D.; Griffiths, M.R.

1998-01-01

Full text: Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) of the calcaneus, which measures Speed of Sound (SOS) and Broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA), is predictive of the risk of osteoporotic fracture. However, the utility of QUS for predicting fracture risk or for monitoring treatment efficacy depends on its precision and reliability. Published results and manufacturers data vary significantly due to differences in statistical methodology. We have assessed the precision of the current model of the Lunar Achilles and the McCue Cuba QUS densitometers; the most commonly used QUS machines in Australia. Twenty seven subjects had duplicate QUS measurements performed on the same day on both machines. These data were used to calculate the within pair standard deviation (SD) the co-efficient of variation, CV and the standardised co efficient of variation (sCV) which is corrected for the dynamic range. In addition, the co-efficient of reliability (R) was calculated as an index of reliability which is independent of the population mean value, or the dynamic range of the measurements. R ranges between 0 (for no reliability) to 1(for a perfect reliability). The results indicate that the precision of QUS is dependent on the dynamic range and the instrument. Furthermore, they suggest that while QUS is a useful predictor of fracture risk, at present it has limited clinical value in monitoring short term age-related bone loss of 1-2% per year

Actinide L-line ED-XRF and Hybrid K-edge Densitometer Spectra Processing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Esbelin, E.

2015-01-01

The analysis laboratory in the CEA Atalante complex at Marcoule (France) performs numerous R and D studies carried out in glove-boxes or in hot cells. Most of the samples are measured in liquid phase, aqueous or organic. The concentration of the main actinides of interest (U, Np, Pu, Am and Cm) are determined by XRF in a hot cell via their L-line X-ray between 13 and 15 keV. In order to limit the counting rate of many radioactive emitters (X-ray and gamma emitters) in the analysis solution and the continuous spectrum, a graphite monochromator is placed between the sample and detector. Commercial or free, the software packages available for processing X-ray spectra are designed and dedicated to a specific instrument and/or do not take into account the specific feature of our system, in other words, the presence of a monochromator. Therefore, a new X-ray analysis software programme was developed for this particular system which takes into account matrix effects corrections. For sample with U and/or Pu in high concentrations, the hybrid K-edge densitometer is used. A new software programme was also developed. For K-edge densitometry spectra processing, no calibration process is used. Spectra processing is based on theoretical equation and uses XCOM database for mass attenuation coefficients. Measured spectra on K-edge densitometer of Rokkasho Safeguards Analytical Laboratory were processed with this software and a very good agreement was found with IDTIMS results. The new graphical user interface allows to manually correct the defined edge. For the XRF spectra processing, new algorithms are used to define the base line and to find/integrate peaks. With these two analytical devices in laboratory, U and Pu concentrations can be measured from 0.5 mg/l to several hundred of g/l. (author)

Files for workstations with ionizing radiation risks: variation in the use of gamma densitometers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tournadre, A.

2008-01-01

After a brief presentation of the different gamma-densitometers proposed by MLPC to measure roadway density, and having outlined the support role of the provider, the author describes the form and content of workstation files for workstations exhibiting a risk related to ionizing radiation. He gives an analytical overview of dose calculation: analysis of instrument use phases, exposure duration, dose rates and way of introducing these dose rates in the workstation file. He formulates how different procedures are to be followed by the radiation protection expert within the company. He outlines that workstation files are very useful as information feedback tool

Midplane Faraday Rotation: A densitometer for BPX

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jobes, F.C.; Mansfield, D.K.

1992-02-01

The density in a high field, high density tokamak such as BPX can be determined by measuring the Faraday rotation of a 10.6 μm laser directed tangent to the toroidal field. If there is a horizontal array of such beams, then n e (R) can be readily obtained with a simple Abel version about the center line of the tokamak. For BPX operated at full field and density, the rotation angle would be quite large -- about 75 degrees per pass. A layout in which a single laser beam is fanned out in the horizontal midplane of the tokamak, with a set of retroreflectors on the far side of the vacuum vessel, would provide good spatial resolution, depending only upon the number of reflectors. With this proposed layout, only one window would be needed. Because the rotation angle is never more than 1 ''fringe,'' the data is always good, and it is also a continuous measurement in time. Faraday rotation is dependent only upon the plasma itself, and thus is not sensitive to vibration of the optical components. Simulations of the expected results show that BPX would be well served even at low densities by a Midplane Faraday Rotation densitometer of ∼64 channels. Both TFTR and PBX-M would be suitable test beds for the BPX system

Small animals bone density and morphometry analysis with a dual energy X-rays absorptiometry bone densitometer using a 2D digital radiographic detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boudousq, V.; Bordy, T.; Gonon, G.; Dinten, J.M.

2004-01-01

LEXXOS (DMS, Montpellier, France) is the first axial and total body cone beam bone densitometer using a 2D digital radiographic detector. In previous papers, technical principles and patients' Bone Mineral Density (BMD) measurement performances were presented. Bone densitometers are also used on small animals for drug development. In this presentation, we show how LEXXOS can be adapted for small animals' examinations and evaluate its performances. At first, in order to take advantage of the whole area of the 20 x 20 cm 2 digital radiographic detector, it has been made profit of X-Rays magnification by adapting the geometrical configuration. Secondly, as small animals present low BMD, a specific dual energy calibration has been defined. This adapted system has then been evaluated on two sets of mice: six reference mice and six ovariectomized mice. Each month, these two populations have been examined and the averaged total body BMD has been measured. This evaluation shows that the right order of BMD magnitude is obtained and, as expected, BMD increases on two sets until a period around puberty and the ovariectomized set presents a significant decrease after. Moreover, the bone image obtained by dual energy processing on LEXXOS presents a radiographic image quality providing useful complementary information on bone morphometry and architecture. This study shows that LEXXOS cone beam bone densitometer provides simultaneously useful quantitative and qualitative information for analysis of bone evolution on small animals. In the future, same system architecture and processing methodology can be used with higher resolution detectors in order to refine information on bone architecture. (authors)

Design concept and testing of an in-bundle gamma densitometer for subchannel void fraction measurements in the THTF electrically heated rod bundle

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Felde, D.K.

1982-04-01

A design concept is presented for an in-bundle gamma densitometer system for measurement of subchannel average fluid density and void fraction in rod or tube bundles. This report describes (1) the application of the design concept to the Thermal-Hydraulic Test Facility (THTF) electrically heated rod bundle; and (2) results from tests conducted in the THTF

Midplane Faraday rotation: A densitometer for large tokamaks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jobes, F.C.; Mansfield, D.K.

1992-01-01

The density in a large tokamak such as International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), or any of the proposed future US machines, can be determined by measuring the Faraday rotation of a 10.6 μm laser directed tangent to the toroidal field. If there is a horizontal array of such beams, then n e (R) can be readily obtained with a simple Abel inversion about the center line of the tokamak. For a large machine, operated at a full field of 30 T m and a density of 2x10 20 /m 3 , the rotation angle would be quite large-about 60 degree for two passes. A layout in which a single laser beam is fanned out in the horizontal midplane of the tokamak, with a set of retroreflectors on the far side of the vacuum vessel, would provide good spatial resolution, depending only upon the number of reflectors. With this proposed layout, only one window would be needed. Because the rotation angle is never more than 1 ''fringe,'' the data is always good, and it is also a continuous measurement in time. Faraday rotation is dependent only upon the plasma itself, and thus is not sensitive to vibration of the optical components. Simulations of the expected results show that ITER, or any large tokamak, existing or proposed, would be well served even at low densities by a midplane Faraday rotation densitometer of ∼64 channels

The use of the hybrid K-edge densitometer for routine analysis of safeguards verification samples of reprocessing input liquor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ottmar, H.; Eberle, H.

1991-01-01

Following successful tests of a hybrid K-edge instrument at TUI Karlsruhe and the routine use of a K-edge densitometer for safeguards verification at the same laboratory, the Euratom Safeguards Directorate of the Commission of the European Communities decided to install the first such instrument into a large industrial reprocessing plant for the routine verification of samples taken from the input accountancy tanks. This paper reports on the installation, calibration, sample handling procedure and the performance of this instrument after one year of routine operation

Feasibility study for use of a germanium detector in the LOFT gamma-ray densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Swierkowski, S.P.

1976-01-01

The primary aim of this study is to predict the performance of a gamma-ray densitometer system using computer modeling techniques. The system consists of a collimated 137 Cs source, a pipe containing a variable amount of water absorber, and a shielded and collimated germanium detector system. The gamma-ray energy spectrum (number of photon counts as a function of energy) has been computed for several sources at the detector. The response for combined sourceconfigurations has been obtained by linear superposition. The signal essentially consists of the counts in an energy window centered on the 137 Cs source at 662 keV that originate from this source. The noise is the background counts in the signal energy window that originate from 16 N scatter radiation and direct and shield tank activation gammas. The detector signal has been computed for 0, 50, and 100 percent water in the pipe

Gamma densitometer for measuring Pu density in fuel tubes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Winn, W.G.

1982-01-01

A fuel-gamma-densitometer (FGD) has been developed to examine nondestructively the uniformity of plutonium in aluminum-clad fuel tubes at the Savannah River Plant (SRP). The monitoring technique is γ-ray spectroscopy with a lead-collimated Ge(Li) detector. Plutonium density is correlated with the measured intensity of the 208 keV γ-ray from 237 U (7d) of the 241 Pu (15y) decay chain. The FGD measures the plutonium density within 0.125- or 0.25-inch-diameter areas of the 0.133- to 0.183-inch-thick tube walls. Each measurement yields a density ratio that relates the plutonium density of the measured area to the plutonium density in normal regions of the tube. The technique was used to appraise a series of fuel tubes to be irradated in an SRP reactor. High-density plutonium areas were initially identified by x-ray methods and then examined quantitatively with the FGD. The FGD reliably tested fuel tubes and yielded density ratios over a range of 0.0 to 2.5. FGD measurements examined (1) nonuniform plutonium densities or hot spots, (2) uniform high-density patches, and (3) plutonium density distribution in thin cladding regions. Measurements for tubes with known plutonium density agreed with predictions to within 2%. Attenuation measurements of the 208-keV γ-ray passage through the tube walls agreed to within 2 to 3% of calculated predictions. Collimator leakage measurements agreed with model calculations that predicted less than a 1.5% effect on plutonium density ratios. Finally, FGD measurements correlated well with x-ray transmission and fluoroscopic measurements. The data analysis for density ratios involved a small correction of about 10% for γ-shielding within the fuel tube. For hot spot examinations, limited information for this correction dictated a density ratio uncertainty of 3 to 5%

Outdoor solar UVA dose assessment with EBT2 radiochromic film using spectrophotometer and densitometer measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abukassem, I.; Bero, M.A.

2015-01-01

Direct measurements of solar ultraviolet radiations (UVRs) have an important role in the protection of humans against UVR hazard. This work presents simple technique based on the application of EBT2 GAFCHROMIC R film for direct solar UVA dose assessment. It demonstrates the effects of different parts of the solar spectrum (UVB, visible and infrared) on performed UVA field measurements and presents the measurement uncertainty budget. The gradient of sunlight exposure level permitted the authors to establish the mathematical relationships between the measured solar UVA dose and two measured quantities: the first was the changes in spectral absorbance at the wavelength 633 nm (A 633 ) and the second was the optical density (OD). The established standard relations were also applied to calculate the solar UVA dose variations during the whole day; 15 min of exposure each hour between 8:00 and 17:00 was recorded. Results show that both applied experimental methods, spectrophotometer absorbance and densitometer OD, deliver comparable figures for EBT2 solar UVA dose assessment with relative uncertainty of 11 % for spectral absorbance measurements and 15 % for OD measurements. (authors)

Definition of osteoporosis by bone density criteria in men: effect of using female instead of male young reference data depends on skeletal site and densitometer manufacturer.

Science.gov (United States)

Schousboe, John T; Tanner, S Bobo; Leslie, William D

2014-01-01

Whether to use young male or young female reference data to calculate bone mineral density (BMD) T-scores in men remains controversial. The third National Health and Nutrition Examination and Survey (NHANES III) data show that the mean and standard deviation of femoral neck and total hip BMD is greater in young men than young women, and therefore differences in T-scores at these sites using NHANES III female vs male norms becomes less as BMD decreases. In contrast, manufacturer-specific reference databases generally assume similar standard deviations of BMD in men and women. Using NHANES III reference data for the femoral neck and total hip, respectively we found that men with T-scores of -2.5 when young male norms are used have T-scores of -2.4 and -2.3 when young female norms are used. Using manufacturer-specific reference data, we found that men with T-scores of -2.5 when young male norms are used at the femoral neck, total hip, lumbar spine, or one-third of the forearm would have T-scores ranging from -2.4 to -0.4 when young female norms are used, depending on skeletal site and densitometer manufacturer. The change of proportions of men diagnosed with osteoporosis when young female norms are used instead of young male reference data differs substantially according to skeletal site and densitometer manufacturer. Copyright © 2014 The International Society for Clinical Densitometry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A compact low energy multibeam gamma-ray densitometer for pipe-flow measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tjugum, Stein-Arild; Frieling, Joop; Johansen, Geir Anton

2002-01-01

A compact low-energy multibeam gamma-ray densitometer for oil/water/gas pipe-flow measurement has been built at the University of Bergen. The instrument consists of one Am-241 source and three detectors, all collimated and embedded in the pipe wall. Only the 59.5 keV radiation energy of the source is utilized. Two of the detectors measure transmitted radiation across the pipe flow, and one measure scattered radiation at a 90 degree sign angle. The purpose of the multibeam measurement geometry is to acquire flow regime information and to reduce the flow regime dependency of the gas volume fraction (GVF) measurements. The measurement of scattered radiation enables the dual modality densitometry (DMD) measurement principle to be exploited. Its basic principle is to combine the measurement of scattered and transmitted radiation in order to obtain salinity independent GVF measurements. The salinity dependency is otherwise strongly significant when using low-energy radiation. It is also possible to measure the salinity by using this principle. The instrument is a laboratory prototype, and it has been used for characterising the measurement principle and to test different detector alternatives. The testing of the instrument includes static tests on plastic phantoms, tests on simulated water/gas flow and three phase flow loop tests. Both the multibeam measurement principle and the DMD principle have been verified to provide valuable information. This paper presents the physics behind, experimental results and an evaluation of the system

Whole body effective dose measurements in a fan beam bone mineral densitometer, Lunar expert

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sathiakumar, C.; Griffiths, M.; Cross, P.; Pocock, N.; Freund, J. [St Vincents Hospital, Sydney, NSW (Australia) Department of Nuclear Medicine; Kron, T.; Duggan, L. [Newcastle Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Newcastle, NSW (Australia). Department of Radiation Oncology; Holley, L. [University of Technology, Sydney, NSW (Australia). Department of Health Services

1998-06-01

Full text: The most recent generation of DXA machines employ a fan beam geometry and high resolution imaging detector, resulting in decreased scanning time and increased image resolution compared to previous rectilinear scanners, but with higher radiation burden to the patient because of an increasing number of bone mineral density scans, it was felt that independent evaluation of the radiation dose was necessary. The whole body effective dose for an AP lumbar spine scan and femur scan using the EXPERT bone densitometer was calculated for the fast and turbo scanning modes, using thermoluminescence dosimetry (TLD). A method was developed to determine the absorbed dose of the irradiated volume of an organ by summing the dose for each of the coronal areas, which results in a volume dose. The Whole Body Effective dose for AP lumbar spine fast scanning mode is 84.1 {mu}Sv and turbo scanning mode is 56.4 {mu}Sv. The Whole Body Effective dose for femur fast scanning mode is 6.6 {mu}Sv and turbo scanning mode is 4.2 {mu}Sv, with no ovary exposure. A theoretical method has been developed to calculate the organ dose from which whole body effective dose was calculated

Measurement of mass flux in high temperature high pressure steam-water two-phase flow using a combination of Pitot tubes and a gamma densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chan, A.M.C.; Bzovey, D.

1990-01-01

The design and calibration of a two-phase mass-flux measurement device making use of a Pitot-tube rake and a gamma densitometer are described. Five Pitot tubes and three chordal void-fraction measurements are used. Similar devices have been reported previously. The present device is designed for easy operation and simple data interpretation for both axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric flows under high pressure transient two-phase flow conditions. The device was calibrated using a vertical two-phase flow loop as well as a model-scale pump loop in horizontal orientation. Good agreement between the measured two-phase mass fluxes and the single-phase values was obtained in both cases. (orig.)

User's guide for the portable microprocessor equipment: 'KfK K-edge densitometer' for quantitative determination of Th, U, Np, Pu, Am in solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Michel-Piper, I.; Matussek, P.

1985-06-01

This report describes the hardware and software features, and the use of the microprocessor-controlled multichannel analyzer system SILENA + IRIS. The self-contained portable system, which permits independent accumulation and evaluation of spectral data from the KfK K-edge densitometer, provides one of the possible means for the authentication of resident instruments by safeguards inspectors. The 'K-Edge' program, written in PL/M language for compatibility with the system's firmware, allows fully automated assays of heavy element concentrations in solutions by means of X-ray absorption edge spectrometry. It is primarily intended for highly accurate determinations of the U and Pu content in process- and product solutions of a reprocessing plant. (orig.)

Gender disparity in BMD conversion: a comparison between Lunar and Hologic densitometers.

Science.gov (United States)

Ganda, Kirtan; Nguyen, Tuan V; Pocock, Nicholas

2014-01-01

Female-derived inter-conversion and standardised BMD equations at the lumbar spine and hip have not been validated in men. This study of 110 male subjects scanned on Hologic and Lunar densitometers demonstrates that published equations may not applicable to men at the lumbar spine. Male inter-conversion equations have also been derived. Currently, available equations for inter-manufacturer conversion of bone mineral density (BMD) and calculation of standardised BMD (sBMD) are used in both males and females, despite being derived and validated only in women. Our aim was to test the validity of the published equations in men. One hundred ten men underwent lumbar spine (L2-4), femoral neck (FN) and total hip (TH) dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) using Hologic and Lunar scanners. Hologic BMD was converted to Lunar using published equations derived from women for L2-4 and FN. Actual Lunar BMD (A-Lunar) was compared to converted (Lunar equivalent) Hologic BMD values (H-Lunar). sBMD was calculated separately using Hologic (sBMD-H) and Lunar BMD (sBMD-L) at L2-4, FN and TH. Conversion equations in men for Hologic to Lunar BMD were derived using Deming regression analysis. There was a strong linear correlation between Lunar and Hologic BMD at all skeletal sites. A-Lunar BMD was however significantly higher than derived H-Lunar BMD (p Lunar BMD to Hologic BMD, and formulae for lumbar spine sBMD, derived in women may not be applicable to men.

Determination of a cross-sectional void fraction in a tube bundle using a single beam gamma densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guichard, J.; Mezoul, B.; Peturaud, P.; Thomas, B.

1991-06-01

In order to qualify 3-dimensional two-phase flow computer codes modelling average flows in tube bundles, cross-section average void fractions must be measured over sub-channels. On the VATICAN mockup, such void fractions(integrated on the mockup thickness) are determined using a single (narrow) beam gamma densitometer. But to avoid a refined exploration of each measurement mesh, for each test, empirical calibration curves have been developed in a regular mesh of the mockup, in axial flow conditions. These calibration curves, which evaluate the sought cross-sectional value as a function of a chordal void fraction (right in the inter-rod gap) depend only on heat flux density and pressure. The data are consistent with the ARMAND-MASSENA and LELLOUCHE-ZOLOTAR slip correlations, and they are fitted by 3rd degree polynomials, for each heat flux density investigated, with a good accuracy. Unfortunately, preliminary testing and analysis indicate that the use of these calibration curves in subcooled boiling and transverse mixing zones might result in significant uncertainties and errors

Outdoor solar UVA dose assessment with EBT2 radiochromic film using spectrophotometer and densitometer measurements.

Science.gov (United States)

Abukassem, I; Bero, M A

2015-04-01

Direct measurements of solar ultraviolet radiations (UVRs) have an important role in the protection of humans against UVR hazard. This work presents simple technique based on the application of EBT2 GAFCHROMIC(®) film for direct solar UVA dose assessment. It demonstrates the effects of different parts of the solar spectrum (UVB, visible and infrared) on performed UVA field measurements and presents the measurement uncertainty budget. The gradient of sunlight exposure level permitted the authors to establish the mathematical relationships between the measured solar UVA dose and two measured quantities: the first was the changes in spectral absorbance at the wavelength 633 nm (A633) and the second was the optical density (OD). The established standard relations were also applied to calculate the solar UVA dose variations during the whole day; 15 min of exposure each hour between 8:00 and 17:00 was recorded. Results show that both applied experimental methods, spectrophotometer absorbance and densitometer OD, deliver comparable figures for EBT2 solar UVA dose assessment with relative uncertainty of 11% for spectral absorbance measurements and 15% for OD measurements. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Stability of Working Reference Standards for Hybrid K-Edge Densitometer Quality Assurance

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guzzardo, T.; Pickett, C.A.; McElroy, R.; Croft, S.; Garrison, J.; Venkataraman, R.

2015-01-01

The relatively short working life of aqueous solution standards of actinides for the calibration and quality control of Hybrid K-Edge Densitometer (HKED) measurements necessitates the development of a stable matrix material less susceptible to degradation. Degradation in the form of evaporation, radiolysis, settling, sloshing, and sediment formation can all reduce the reliability and working life of an aqueous standard. These factors make aqueous solutions inadequate for long-term quality assurance measurements designed to detect weak or subtle trends in system performance. Epoxy, studied here, is an alternative matrix material that may be less vulnerable to degradation. An additional benefit of epoxy is that standards can easily be characterized as sealed sources which allows for simplified administrative controls during shipping and storage. The stability of working reference standards consisting of U 3 O 8 in an epoxy matrix for use in the HKED has been tracked for over three years through repeated X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and K-Edge (KED) measurements. A set of six epoxy standards ranging in concentration from 1 g/l to 76 g/l uranium were determined to be stable, within the expected accuracy of the system, over the period of analysis. During this time, no effort was made to enhance the stability of the epoxy standards; the radial measurement position was not controlled and in the middle of the analysis period the HKED system and standards were shipped from the vendor's factory to the customer. Epoxy standards afford numerous benefits over those created from aqueous solutions and should be considered when developing HKED standards for quality assurance measurements. The stability of the epoxy allows the development of working standards of a stability and robustness sufficient for use in a proposed international round-robin exercise based on the exchange of such standards. (author)

A prototype, glassless densitometer traceable to primary optical standards for quantitative radiochromic film dosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rosen, B. S.; Hammer, C. G.; Kunugi, K. A.; DeWerd, L. A.; Soares, C. G.

2015-01-01

Purpose: To evaluate a prototype densitometer traceable to primary optical standards and compare its performance to an EPSON Expression ® 10000XL flatbed scanner (the Epson) for quantitative radiochromic film (RCF) dosimetry. Methods: A prototype traceable laser densitometry system (LDS) was developed to mitigate common film scanning artifacts, such as positional scan dependence and high noise in low-dose regions, by performing point-based measurements of RCF suspended in free-space using coherent light. The LDS and the Epson optical absorbance scales were calibrated up to 3 AU, using reference materials calibrated at a primary standards laboratory and a scanner calibration factor (SCF). Calibrated optical density (OD) was determined for 96 Gafchromic ® EBT3 film segments before and after irradiation to one of 16 dose levels between 0 and 10 Gy, exposed to 60 Co in a polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) phantom. The sensitivity was determined at each dose level and at two rotationally orthogonal readout orientations to obtain the sensitometric response of each RCF dosimetry system. LDS rotational scanning dependence was measured at nine angles between 0°and 180°, due to the expected interference between coherent light and polarizing EBT3 material. The response curves were fit to the analytic functions predicted by two physical response models: the two-parameter single-hit model and the four-parameter percolation model. Results: The LDS and the Epson absorbance measurements were linear to primary optical standards to within 0.2% and 0.3% up to 2 and 1 AU, respectively. At higher densities, the LDS had an over-response (2.5% at 3 AU) and the Epson an under-response (3.1% and 9.8% at 2 and 3 AU, respectively). The LDS and the Epson SCF over the applicable range were 0.968% ± 0.2% and 1.561% ± 0.3%, respectively. The positional scan dependence was evaluated on each digitizer and shown to be mitigated on the LDS, as compared to the Epson. Maximum EBT3 rotational

Small animals bone density and morphometry analysis with a dual energy X-rays absorptiometry bone densitometer using a 2D digital radiographic detector; Analyse de la densite osseuse et de la morphometrie de petits animaux avec un osteodensitometre bi-energie utilisant un capteur 2D de radiographie numerique

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Boudousq, V. [Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nimes, 30 (France); Bordy, T.; Gonon, G.; Dinten, J.M. [CEA Grenoble (DTBS/STD), Lab. d' Electronique et de Technologie de l' Informatique, LETI, 38 (France)

2004-07-01

LEXXOS (DMS, Montpellier, France) is the first axial and total body cone beam bone densitometer using a 2D digital radiographic detector. In previous papers, technical principles and patients' Bone Mineral Density (BMD) measurement performances were presented. Bone densitometers are also used on small animals for drug development. In this presentation, we show how LEXXOS can be adapted for small animals' examinations and evaluate its performances. At first, in order to take advantage of the whole area of the 20 x 20 cm{sup 2} digital radiographic detector, it has been made profit of X-Rays magnification by adapting the geometrical configuration. Secondly, as small animals present low BMD, a specific dual energy calibration has been defined. This adapted system has then been evaluated on two sets of mice: six reference mice and six ovariectomized mice. Each month, these two populations have been examined and the averaged total body BMD has been measured. This evaluation shows that the right order of BMD magnitude is obtained and, as expected, BMD increases on two sets until a period around puberty and the ovariectomized set presents a significant decrease after. Moreover, the bone image obtained by dual energy processing on LEXXOS presents a radiographic image quality providing useful complementary information on bone morphometry and architecture. This study shows that LEXXOS cone beam bone densitometer provides simultaneously useful quantitative and qualitative information for analysis of bone evolution on small animals. In the future, same system architecture and processing methodology can be used with higher resolution detectors in order to refine information on bone architecture. (authors)

Development of gamma-ray densitometer and measurement of void fraction in instantaneous pipe rupture under BWR LOCA condition

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yano, Toshikazu

1983-11-01

In order to clarify the transient mass flow rate under the instantaneous pipe rupture condition, it is necessary to use a highly sensitive void meter. Therefore, a high-response gamma-ray densitometer was developed for the measurement of void fraction variation caused by flashing vaporization of the high-pressure and -temperature water under the instantaneous pipe rupture accident. The measurement of void fraction was performed in the pipe rupture test under the BWR LOCA condition with a 6-inch diameter pipe. Initial conditions of the water were 6.86 MPa in pressure and the saturation temperature. To prove the reliability and accuracy, a calibration test by falling acrylic void simulators and an air injection test into cold water filled in the pipe were also conducted. The following results are obtained in the pipe rupture test. (1) The cone slit method is very useful to increase the measuring accuracy. (2) It is clearly observed that the apparent increase of void fraction occurs after the rarefaction wave passes. (3) The first maximum of void fraction occurs with some delay time after break. The following minimum void fraction concurs with the maximum pressure in the pressure recovering phenomena and with the maximum blowdown thrust force. (author)

Comparison of electrical capacitance tomography and gamma densitometer measurement in viscous oil-gas flows

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Archibong Eso, A.; Zhao, Yabin; Yeung, Hoi [Department of Offshore Process and Energy Systems Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield (United Kingdom)

2014-04-11

Multiphase flow is a common occurrence in industries such as nuclear, process, oil and gas, food and chemical. A prior knowledge of its features and characteristics is essential in the design, control and management of such processes due to its complex nature. Electrical Capacitance Tomography (ECT) and Gamma Densitometer (Gamma) are two promising approaches for multiphase visualization and characterization in process industries. In two phase oil and gas flow, ECT and Gamma are used in multiphase flow monitoring techniques due to their inherent simplicity, robustness, and an ability to withstand wide range of operational temperatures and pressures. High viscous oil (viscosity > 100 cP) is of interest because of its huge reserves, technological advances in its production and unlike conventional oil (oil viscosity < 100 cP) and gas flows where ECT and Gamma have been previously used, high viscous oil and gas flows comes with certain associated concerns which include; increased entrainment of gas bubbles dispersed in oil, shorter and more frequent slugs as well as oil film coatings on the walls of flowing conduits. This study aims to determine the suitability of both devices in the visualization and characterization of high-viscous oil and gas flow. Static tests are performed with both devices and liquid holdup measurements are obtained. Dynamic experiments were also conducted in a 1 and 3 inch facility at Cranfield University with a range of nominal viscosities (1000, 3000 and 7500 cP). Plug, slug and wavy annular flow patterns were identified by means of Probability Mass Function and time series analysis of the data acquired from Gamma and ECT devices with high speed camera used to validate the results. Measured Liquid holdups for both devices were also compared.

Cross-calibration of domestic devices and GE lunar prodigy advance dual-energy X-ray densitometer devices for bone mineral measurements

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kim, Jung Su [Chungbuk Health and Science University, Cheongju (Korea, Republic of); Rho, Young Hoon; Lee, In Ju; Kim, Jung Min [Korea University Graduate School, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Kyoung A [CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam (Korea, Republic of); Lee, In Ja [Dongnam Health University, Suwon (Korea, Republic of)

2017-03-15

Reliable follow-up of bone mineral density (BMD) by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is essential in clinical practice. When there is a difference in the BMD values from DXA systems in the same patient, cross calibration equation is required for the reliable follow-up. Unfortunately, no equation is existed in BMD measure between GE Lunar Prodigy Advance (US, GE Healthcare; LPA) and Osteosys Dexxum T (Korea, Osteosys; ODT) DXA systems. In this study, we evaluate the agreement of BMD values between LPA and ODT and suggest the cross calibration equation using European spine phantom (ESP) with two systems. We performed BMD measurements using ten scans with ESP in each DXA systems. We compared BMD values and calculated cross calibration equation by linear regression analysis. The comparison between the LPA and ODT bone densitometers used the ESP. Compared to the ESP BMD values, ODT underestimated 14.36% and LPA overestimated 12.96%. The average of total BMD measurement values acquired with ODT were 21.44% lower than those from LPA. Cross-calibration equation for LPA and ODT was derived from ESP. We calculated simple cross calibration equation for LPA and ODT DXA systems. Cross-calibration equation is necessary for the reliable follow-up of BMD values in two different systems.

Off-line NDA measurement of actinides in reprocessing solution using hybrid K-edge/K-XRF densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bootharajan, M.; Swaminathan, K.; Venkata Subramani, C.R.; Kumar, R.

2015-01-01

A versatile, nondestructive assay (NDA) system of a hybrid K-edge/K-XRF facility adapted to a glove box facility has been developed at RCL, IGCAR for the analysis of U and Pu in process solutions obtained from the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuels. This paper describes i) The development of a hybrid K-edge/K-XRF facility adapted to a glove box system ii) The results obtained using conditioner solution of burn up 155 GWd/t with a dose of 20 R/h and iii) Comparison of the results with the parallel analyses of the same by Isotope dilution mass spectrometry. The hybrid K-edge cum K-XRF densitometer is ideally suited for dissolver solutions as well as U and Pu product solutions from reprocessing plant. This method can be useful in the analysis of mixed solution of Special Nuclear Materials (SNM) without chemical separation. To assay solutions with high radiation background, the hybrid K-edge/K-XRF system is designed and fabricated inside a glove box with adequate shielding from both source X-rays and the sample radiation. The theory and preliminary experiments are described elsewhere. Around 5 mL of the conditioner solution (burn up of 155 GWd/t with a dose of 20 R/h) was taken in a poly propylene vial placed concentrically in to another poly propylene vial. The concentration was estimated by K-edge densitometry with X-ray tube operated with 150 kV and 1 mA and counting period of 3000s. Background correction was obtained with the X-ray tube in OFF condition. The solution was analysed parallelly using isotopic dilution mass spectrometry

Non-destructive assay system for uranium and plutonium in reprocessing input solutions. Hybrid K-edge/XRF Densitometer. JASPAS JC-11 final report

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Surugaya, N.; Abe, K.; Kurosawa, A.; Ikeda, H.; Kuno, Y.

1997-05-01

As a part of JASPAS programme, a non-radioactive assay system for the accountability of uranium and plutonium in input dissolver solutions of a spent fuel reprocessing plant, called Hybrid K-edge/XRF Densitometer, has been developed at the Tokai Reprocessing plant (TRP) since 1991. The instrument is the one of the hybrid type combined K-edge densitometry (KED) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. The KED is used to determine the uranium concentration and the XRF is used to determine the U/Pu ratio. These results give the plutonium concentration in consequence. It is considered that the instrument has the capability of timely on-site verification for input accountancy. The instrument had been installed in the analytical hot cell at the TRP and the experiments comparing with Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry (IDMS) method have been carried out. As the results of measurements for the actual input solutions in the acceptance and performance tests, it was typically confirmed that the precision for determining uranium concentration by the KED was within 0.2%, whereas the XRF for plutonium performed within 0.7%. This final report summarizes the design information and performance data so as to end the JASPAS programme. (author)

Rodent bone densitometer on the International Space Station: Instrument design and performance

Science.gov (United States)

Vellinger, John C.; Barton, Kenneth; Faget, Paul; Todd, Paul; Boland, Eugene

2016-07-01

The study of bone loss dynamics, mechanisms and countermeasures has been a publicly stated purpose of biomedical research aboard the International Space Station. Rodent research has always played a major role in terrestrial laboratories studying bone loss. The "gold standard" for assessing bone loss in human patients has been dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). DEXA is also widely applied to the study of bone loss in laboratory animals, so this technology has been added to the ISS inventory of analytical tools in the form of the ISS Bone Densitometer (BD) designed, constructed, tested and integrated by Techshot, Inc. (Greenville, Indiana, USA). The BD is a re-packaged COTS device known as PIXImus (GE-Lunar, USA), which was installed on ISS in November 2014 after launching on SpaceX-4. To facilitate operations in microgravity and to meet spaceflight facility and safety requirements the commercial x-ray source, control electronics and imaging system were modified and packaged by Techshot into a drawer that fits into a single EXPRESS Locker replacement. A space-rated "Exam Box" is also supplied for containment of the anesthetized subject during transfer into the BD and during exposure. The commercial software package controls four paired-energy exposures, 80 and 35 kV, and applies DEXA algorithms to the fluorescence images and displays bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content, lean mass, fat mass, total mass and per cent fat. The BD is therefore also a means for measuring mass and body composition making it a versatile tool for many types of rodent studies on orbit. The BD has been operated multiple times on orbit, and its performance has not differed significantly from its performance on the ground. It has been shown to measure body mass with a precision of +/- 0.1 g and on-orbit accuracy of -0.3 g. It is expected to detect BMD losses of approximately 2%. The image data are stored in a manner that allows post-test data analysis especially including the

75 FR 6821 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F Series Airplanes

Science.gov (United States)

2010-02-11

... this AD to prevent an electrical hot short from a source outside the FQIS to the densitometer wiring... indicating system (FQIS) to the densitometer wiring could result in an ignition source if the densitometer resistors failed while not covered by fuel. Installation of an electrical isolation device, a ``hot short...

Model to calculate mass flow rate and other quantities of two-phase flow in a pipe with a densitometer, a drag disk, and a turbine meter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aya, I.

1975-11-01

The proposed model was developed at ORNL to calculate mass flow rate and other quantities of two-phase flow in a pipe when the flow is dispersed with slip between the phases. The calculational model is based on assumptions concerning the characteristics of a turbine meter and a drag disk. The model should be validated with experimental data before being used in blowdown analysis. In order to compare dispersed flow and homogeneous flow, the ratio of readings from each flow regime for each device discussed is calculated for a given mass flow rate and steam quality. The sensitivity analysis shows that the calculated flow rate of a steam-water mixture (based on the measurements of a drag disk and a gamma densitometer in which the flow is assumed to be homogeneous even if there is some slip between phases) is very close to the real flow rate in the case of dispersed flow at a low quality. As the steam quality increases at a constant slip ratio, all models are prone to overestimate. At 20 percent quality the overestimates reach 8 percent in the proposed model, 15 percent in Rouhani's model, 38 percent in homogeneous model, and 75 percent in Popper's model

Test and evaluation of the in-line plutonium solution K-absorption-edge densitometer at the Savannah River Plant. Phase I. Off-line testing results

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smith, H.A. Jr.; Marks, T.; Johnson, S.S.

1982-04-01

An in-line, plutonium-solution, K-edge absorption densitometer has been developed at Los Alamos and is currently undergoing test and evaluation at the Savannah River Plant (SRP). The first phase of the test and evaluation (off-line instrument calibration and solution assays) was completed, and preparations are under way to install the instrument in-line, as soon as process schedules permit. Calibration data in the design concentration range of 25 to 40 g Pu/L demonstrate routine achievement of densitometry assay precisions of 0.5% or better in 40 min. Plutonium assays at concentrations outside the calibration range were investigated in an effort to define better the limitations of the instrument and address other possible assay situations at SRP. Densitometry precisions obtained for 40-min assays range from 3% to 5 g Pu/L down to 0.4% at 70 g Pu/L. At higher plutonium concentrations, the precision deteriorated due to increasing gamma-ray absorption by the solution. In addition, with actinide concentrations above approximately 100 g/L, the assay accuracy also suffered because of enhanced small-angle scattering effects in the large sample cell. Measurements on mixed U/Pu solutions demonstrated the feasibility of accurate plutonium assays with correction for the large uranium matrix contributions being determined from the measurement data. The 239 240 Pu weight fractions and 241 Pu/ 239 Pu and 238 Pu/ 239 Pu isotopic ratios can be determined. In a mockup of the in-line solution plumbing system, all assay sequences, error conditions, and interlock criteria were exercised and verified to be working properly

An Investigation Into the Differences in Bone Density and Body Composition Measurements Between 2 GE Lunar Densitometers and Their Comparison to a 4-Component Model.

Science.gov (United States)

Watson, Laura P E; Venables, Michelle C; Murgatroyd, Peter R

We describe a study to assess the precision of the GE Lunar iDXA and the agreement between the iDXA and GE Lunar Prodigy densitometers for the measurement of regional- and total-body bone and body composition in normal to obese healthy adults. We compare the whole-body fat mass by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to measurements by a 4-component (4-C) model. Sixty-nine participants, aged 37 ± 12 yr, with a body mass index of 26.2 ± 5.1 kg/cm 2 , were measured once on the Prodigy and twice on the iDXA. The 4-C model estimated fat mass from body mass, total body water by deuterium dilution, body volume by air displacement plethysmography, and bone mass by DXA. Agreements between measurements made on the 2 instruments and by the 4-C model were analyzed by Bland-Altman and linear regression analyses. Where appropriate, translational cross-calibration equations were derived. Differences between DXA software versions were investigated. iDXA precision was less than 2% of the measured value for all regional- and whole-body bone and body composition measurements with the exception of arm fat mass (2.28%). We found significant differences between iDXA and Prodigy (p Lunar instruments, Prodigy and iDXA measurement values. A divergence from the reference 4-C observations remains in FM estimations made by DXA even following the recent advances in technology. Further studies are particularly warranted in individuals with large FM contents. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The interchangeability of radioisotope and X-ray based measurements of bone mineral density

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Adachi, J.D.; Webber, C.E.

1991-01-01

Lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD) were measured with a Novo radioisotope based dual photon densitometer and with a Lunar X-ray densitometer in 94 subjects attending a Metabolic Bone Disease Clinic. There was a strong correlation between results obtained from each machine. The correlation coefficients for the spine and femoral neck were 0.97 and 0.88, respectively. Differences between results from each machine were normally distributed with a mean bias of 37.5% (spine) and 27.8% (femur), arising principally from differences in machine calibration. In each case the BMD was greater measured by X-ray absorptiometry. The range for the bias was approximately 25-50% for the spine and 10-45% for the femoral neck. The results from these two machines are not interchangeable. When subjects participating in long term studies using a radioisotope densitometer are transferred to an X-ray densitometer, an individual conversion factor must be measured at each site for each subject. (author)

Radiochromic film dosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xu Zhiyong

2002-01-01

Radiochromic film dosimetry was developed to measure ionization irradiation dose for industry and medicine. At this time, there are no comprehensive guideline on the medical application, calibration method and densitometer system for medicine. The review gives update on Radiochromic film dosimetry used for medicine, including principles, film model and material, characteristics, calibration method, scanning densitometer system and medical application

System requirements for one-time-use ENRAF control panel software

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

HUBER, J.H.

1999-01-01

An Enraf Densitometer is installed on tank 241-AY-102. The Densitometer will frequently be tasked to obtain and log density profiles. The activity can be effected a number of ways. Enraf Incorporated provides a software package called ''Logger18'' to its customers for the purpose of in-shop testing of their gauges. Logger18 is capable of accepting an input file which can direct the gauge to obtain a density profile for a given tank level and bottom limit. Logger18 is a complex, DOS based program which will require trained technicians and/or tank farm entries to obtain the data. ALARA considerations have prompted the development of a more user-friendly, computer-based interface to the Enraf densitometers. This document records the plan by which this new Enraf data acquisition software will be developed, reviewed, verified, and released. This plan applies to the development and implementation of a one-time-use software program, which will be called ''Enraf Control Panel.'' The software will be primarily used for remote operation of Enraf Densitometers for the purpose of obtaining and logging tank product density profiles

Instrumentation for two-phase flow measurements in code verification experiments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fincke, J.R.; Anderson, J.L.; Arave, A.E.; Deason, V.A.; Lassahn, G.D.; Goodrich, L.D.; Colson, J.B.; Fickas, E.T.

1981-01-01

The development of instrumentation and techniques for the measurement of mass flow rate in two-phase flows conducted at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory during the past year is briefly described. Instruments discussed are the modular drag-disc turbine transducer, the gamma densitometers, the ultrasonic densitometer, Pitot tubes, and full-flow drag screens. Steady state air-water and transient steam-water data are presented

Experimental study of flow monitoring instruments in air-water, two-phase downflow

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sheppard, J.D.; Hayes, P.H.; Wynn, M.C.

1976-01-01

The performance of a turbine meter, target flow meter (drag disk), and a gamma densitometer was studied in air-water, two-phase vertical downflow. Air and water were metered into an 0.0889-m-ID (3.5-in.) piping system; air flows ranged from 0.007 to 0.3 m 3 /sec (16 to 500 scfm) and water flows ranged from 0.0006 to 0.03 m 3 /sec (10 to 500 gpm). The study included effects of flow rate, quality, flow regime, and flow dispersion on the mean and fluctuating components of the instrument signals. Wire screen flow dispersers located at the inlet to the test section had a significant effect on the readings of the drag disk and gamma densitometer, but had little effect on the turbine. Further, when flow dispersers were used, mass flow rates determined from the three instrument readings and a two-velocity, slip flow model showed good agreement with actual mass flow rate over a three-fold range in quality; mass flows determined with the drag disk and densitometer readings assuming homogeneous flow were nearly as accurate. However, when mass flows were calculated using the turbine and densitometer or turbine and drag disk readings assuming homogeneous flow, results were scattered and relatively inaccurate compared to the actual mass flows. Turbine meter data were used with a two-velocity turbine model and continuity relationships for each phase to determine the void fraction and mean phase velocities in the test section. The void fraction was compared with single beam gamma densitometer results and fluid momentum calculated from a two-velocity model was compared with drag disk readings

High resolution ultrasonic densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dress, W.B.

1983-01-01

The velocity of torsional stress pulses in an ultrasonic waveguide of non-circular cross section is affected by the temperature and density of the surrounding medium. Measurement of the transit times of acoustic echoes from the ends of a sensor section are interpreted as level, density, and temperature of the fluid environment surrounding that section. This paper examines methods of making these measurements to obtain high resolution, temperature-corrected absolute and relative density and level determinations of the fluid. Possible applications include on-line process monitoring, a hand-held density probe for battery charge state indication, and precise inventory control for such diverse fluids as uranium salt solutions in accountability storage and gasoline in service station storage tanks

High-throughput film-densitometry: An efficient approach to generate large data sets

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Typke, Dieter; Nordmeyer, Robert A.; Jones, Arthur; Lee, Juyoung; Avila-Sakar, Agustin; Downing, Kenneth H.; Glaeser, Robert M.

2004-07-14

A film-handling machine (robot) has been built which can, in conjunction with a commercially available film densitometer, exchange and digitize over 300 electron micrographs per day. Implementation of robotic film handling effectively eliminates the delay and tedium associated with digitizing images when data are initially recorded on photographic film. The modulation transfer function (MTF) of the commercially available densitometer is significantly worse than that of a high-end, scientific microdensitometer. Nevertheless, its signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) is quite excellent, allowing substantial restoration of the output to ''near-to-perfect'' performance. Due to the large area of the standard electron microscope film that can be digitized by the commercial densitometer (up to 10,000 x 13,680 pixels with an appropriately coded holder), automated film digitization offers a fast and inexpensive alternative to high-end CCD cameras as a means of acquiring large amounts of image data in electron microscopy.

Accommodating brightness and exposure levels in densitometry of stained polyacrylamide electrophoresis gels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tan, Han Yen; Ng, Tuck Wah; Liew, Oi Wah

2010-01-01

Flatbed scanner densitometers can be operated under various illumination and recording exposure levels. In this work, we show that optical density measurement accuracy, sensitivity, and stability of stained polyacrylamide electrophoresis gel densitometry are crucially dependent on these two factors (brightness and exposure level), notwithstanding that the source is monochromatic, spatially uniform, and the measurements are made using an accurately calibrated step wedge in tandem. We further outline a method to accommodate the intensity deviations over a range of illumination and exposure levels in order to maintain sensitivity and repeatability in the computed optical densities. Comparisons were also made with results from a commercial densitometer.

Photographic quality assurance in diagnostic radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiation therapy. Volume II. Photographic processing, quality assurance, and the evaluation of photographic materials. Final report

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gray, J.E.; Vucich, J.J.

1977-03-01

Contents: Sensitometers, densitometers, and testing equipment; Pitfalls of the photographic (and radiographic) process; Evaluation and optimization of photographic processes; Quality assurance; Odds 'n' ends

Measuring body composition in overweight individuals by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brownbill, Rhonda A; Ilich, Jasminka Z

2005-01-01

Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is widely used for body composition measurements in normal-weight and overweight/obese individuals. The limitations of bone densitometers have been frequently addressed. However, the possible errors in assessing body composition in overweight individuals due to incorrect positioning or limitations of DXA to accurately assess both bone mineral density and body composition in obese individuals have not received much attention and are the focus of this report. We discuss proper ways of measuring overweight individuals and point to some studies where that might not have been the case. It appears that currently, the most prudent approach to assess body composition of large individuals who cannot fit under the scanning area would be to estimate regional fat, namely the regions of thigh and/or abdomen. Additionally, using two-half body scans, although time consuming, may provide a relatively accurate measurement of total body fat, however, more studies using this technique are needed to validate it. Researchers using bone densitometers for body composition measurements need to have an understanding of its limitations in overweight individuals and address them appropriately when interpreting their results. Studies on accuracy and precision in measurements of both bone and soft tissue composition in overweight individuals using available densitometers are needed

Characteristics of X-ray fluorescence of nuclear materials

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Park, Seunghoon; Kwak, Sung-Woo; Shin, Jung-Ki; Park, Uk-Rayng; Jung, Heejun [Korea Institute of Nuclear Nonproliferation and Control, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

2015-10-15

LED is a technique of determination of uranium concentration as a continuous X-ray energy beams transmit a uranium liquid sample for safeguards. Compared to K-edge densitometer, due to relatively lower energy (L-edge energy is 17.17 keV) of Uranium L series energy than K-series energy, L-edge densitometer does not require high purity germanium detector with liquid nitride cooling. Therefore, the Ledge densitometer is appropriate for portable equipment for on-site nuclear material inspection and safeguards at facility sites. XRF combined with LED is a technique of finding of nuclear materials from reflected characteristic X-ray photons. In this study, characteristics of XRF of nuclear materials are simulated Monte Carlo method (Geant4) for feasibility of the system for determination of concentration of nuclear species. The analysis method of uranium concentration or minor actinides is applied using combination of linear extrapolation from jump of L-edge of sample and ratio between uranium and minor actinide from XRF measurement. In this study, The XRF ch aracteristics was simulated from Monte Carlo method. The peaks were obtained from nuclear material mixture. The estimated nuclear material concentration is low due to the volume effect of the sample. The correction factor or minimization of the effect is required.

Systemic Effect of Angipars on Regulation of Wound Healing is ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

1Physiology-Pharmacology Research Center, 2Molecular Medicine Research Center, 3Department of Biology, ... tissues of wounds of diabetics following treatment with insulin, angipars (a .... GS-700 Imaging Densitometer using Molecular.

Measurements of bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and proximal femur using lunar prodigy and the new pencil-beam dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Choi, Dongil; Kim, Deog-Yoon; Han, Chung Soo; Kim, Seonwoo; Bok, Hae Sook; Huh, Wooseong; Ko, Jae-Wook; Hong, Sung Hwa

2010-01-01

We evaluated the correlation of the absolute bone mineral density (BMD) values of the lumbar spine and standard sites of the proximal femur obtained from a Lunar Prodigy and the newly developed pencil-beam dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (Dexxum). Between June 2008 and December 2008, 79 Korean volunteers were enrolled. Measurements were obtained on the same day using both densitometers. The absolute BMD values (g/cm 2 ) from the two densitometers were evaluated using Pearson's correlation analysis with Bonferroni's correction for the three clinically important sites. In order to evaluate precision, we performed duplicate Dexxum measurements, and calculated the within-subject coefficient of variation (WSCV). The Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) of BMD values for the total proximal femur, femoral neck, and lumbar spine by the two densitometers were 0.926, 0.948, and 0.955 respectively, and the null hypotheses of r = 0.8 were all rejected (p < 0.001 by one-sided Z-test with Fisher's z-transformation for each site). The T-scores (r ≥ 0.842) and Z-scores (r ≥ 0.709) also showed strong positive correlations. The duplicate BMD values of Dexxum showed a high level of precision (WSCV ≤ 4.27%). Dexxum measurements of BMD, T-scores, and Z-scores showed a strong linear correlation with those measured on Lunar Prodigy. (orig.)

Characterization of beta radiation fields using radiochromic films

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Benavente, Jhonny A.; Silva, Teogenes A. da

2011-01-01

The objective of this work was to study the response of radiochromic films for beta radiation fields in terms of absorbed dose. The reliability of the EBT model Gafchromic radiochromic film was studied. A 9800 XL model Microtek, transmission scanner, a 369 model X-Rite optical densitometer and a Mini 1240 Shimadzu UV spectrophotometer were used for measurement comparisons. Calibration of the three systems was done with irradiated samples of radiochromic films with 0.1; 0.3; 0.5; 0.8; 1.0; 1.5; 2.0; 2.5; 3.0; 3.5; 4.5 e 5.0 Gy in beta radiation field from a Sr-90/Y-90 source. Calibration was performed by establishing a correlation between the absorbed dose values and the corresponding radiochromic responses. Results showed significant differences in the absorbed dose values obtained with the three methods. Absorbed dose values showed errors from 0.6 to 4.4%, 0.3 to 31.8% and 0.2 to 47.3% for the Microtek scanner, the X-Rite Densitometer and the Shimadzu spectrophotometer, respectively. Due to the easy acquisition and use for absorbed dose measurements, the densitometer and the spectrophotometer showed to be suitable techniques to evaluate radiation dose in relatively homogeneous fields. In the case of inhomogeneous fields or for a two dimension mapping of radiation fields to identify anisotropies, the scanner technique is the most recommended. (author)

Characterization of beta radiation fields using radiochromic films; Caracterizacao de campos de radiacao beta utilizando filmes radiocromicos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Benavente, Jhonny A.; Silva, Teogenes A. da, E-mail: jabc@cdtn.b [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil). Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Ciencia e Tecnologia das Radiacoes, Minerais e Materiais; Meira-Belo, Luiz C.; Reynaldo, Sibele R. [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2011-07-01

The objective of this work was to study the response of radiochromic films for beta radiation fields in terms of absorbed dose. The reliability of the EBT model Gafchromic radiochromic film was studied. A 9800 XL model Microtek, transmission scanner, a 369 model X-Rite optical densitometer and a Mini 1240 Shimadzu UV spectrophotometer were used for measurement comparisons. Calibration of the three systems was done with irradiated samples of radiochromic films with 0.1; 0.3; 0.5; 0.8; 1.0; 1.5; 2.0; 2.5; 3.0; 3.5; 4.5 e 5.0 Gy in beta radiation field from a Sr-90/Y-90 source. Calibration was performed by establishing a correlation between the absorbed dose values and the corresponding radiochromic responses. Results showed significant differences in the absorbed dose values obtained with the three methods. Absorbed dose values showed errors from 0.6 to 4.4%, 0.3 to 31.8% and 0.2 to 47.3% for the Microtek scanner, the X-Rite Densitometer and the Shimadzu spectrophotometer, respectively. Due to the easy acquisition and use for absorbed dose measurements, the densitometer and the spectrophotometer showed to be suitable techniques to evaluate radiation dose in relatively homogeneous fields. In the case of inhomogeneous fields or for a two dimension mapping of radiation fields to identify anisotropies, the scanner technique is the most recommended. (author)

Determination of Absorbed Dose Using a Dosimetric Film

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Scarlat, F.; Scarisoreanu, A.; Oane, M.; Badita, E.; Mitru, E.

2009-01-01

This paper presents the absorbed dose measurements by means of the irradiated dosimetric reference films. The dose distributions were made by MULTIDATA film densitometer using RTD-4 software, in INFLPR Linear Accelerator Department

Differences in distribution of T-scores and Z-scores among bone densitometry tests in postmenopausal women (a comparative study)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wendlova, J.

2002-01-01

To determine the character of T-score and Z-score value distribution in individually selected methods of bone densitometry and to compare them using statistical analysis. We examined 56 postmenopausal women with an age between 43 and 68 years with osteopenia or osteoporosis according to the WHO classification. The following measurements were made in each patient: T-score and Z-score for: 1) Stiffness index (S) of the left heel bone, USM (index). 2) Bone mineral density of the left heel bone (BMDh), DEXA (g of Ca hydroxyapatite per cm 2 ). 3) Bone mineral density of trabecular bone of the L1 vertebra (BMDL1). QCT (mg of Ca hydroxyapatite per cm 3 ). The densitometers used in the study were: ultrasonometer to measure heel bone, Achilles plus LUNAR, USA: DEXA to measure heel bone, PIXl, LUNAR, USA: QCT to measure the L1 vertebra, CT, SOMATOM Plus, Siemens, Germany. Statistical analysis: differences between measured values of T-scores (Z-scores) were evaluated by parametric or non-parametric methods of determining the 95 % confidence intervals (C.I.). Differences between Z-score and T-score values for compared measurements were statistically significant; however, these differences were lower for Z-scores. Largest differences in 95 % C.I., characterizing individual measurements of T-score values (in comparison with Z-scores), were found for those densitometers whose age range of the reference groups of young adults differed the most, and conversely, the smallest differences in T-score values were found when the differences between the age ranges of reference groups were smallest. The higher variation in T-score values in comparison to Z-scores is also caused by a non-standard selection of the reference groups of young adults for the QCT, PIXI and Achilles Plus densitometers used in the study. Age characteristics of the reference group for T-scores should be standardized for all types of densitometers. (author)

Error analysis of the microradiographical determination of mineral content in mineralised tissue slices

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jong, E. de J. de; Bosch, J.J. ten

1985-01-01

The microradiographic method, used to measure the mineral content in slices of mineralised tissues as a function of position, is analysed. The total error in the measured mineral content is split into systematic errors per microradiogram and random noise errors. These errors are measured quantitatively. Predominant contributions to systematic errors appear to be x-ray beam inhomogeneity, the determination of the step wedge thickness and stray light in the densitometer microscope, while noise errors are under the influence of the choice of film, the value of the optical film transmission of the microradiographic image and the area of the densitometer window. Optimisation criteria are given. The authors used these criteria, together with the requirement that the method be fast and easy to build an optimised microradiographic system. (author)

locally fabricated metal step wedge for quality assurance

African Journals Online (AJOL)

DR. AMINU

naturally/artificially occurring radioactive elements, ... energy to improve health care, as in radiography, ... The use of low performance x-ray machines. b. .... carried out using the digital densitometer x-rite 3 31 nickel-cadmium. (NiCad) battery.

Changes of bone density and serum osteocalcin levels in mid and late pregnancy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Qiu Jianmin; Hu Yafen

1998-01-01

Single photon bone densitometer has been used to determine the bone mineral contents in 1521 cases of mid and late pregnant women. The results showed that the contents are significantly lower than the normal group (P<0.001). Varying degrees of bone mineral loss took place in 488 cases (32.1%) of pregnant women. Serum osteocalcin (BGP) levels in 40 cases of normal nonpregnant women and 41 cases of the bone mineral loss group of pregnant women have been measured simultaneously. The results showed that the contents of the bone mineral loss group of pregnant women are obviously lower than the normal group (P<0.001). This fact implies that the determinations of single photon bone densitometer and serum BGP RIA can be used as the indices for assessing the bone mineral loss in pregnant women

New Compton densitometer for measuring pulmonary edema

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Loo, B.W.; Goulding, F.S.; Simon, D.S.

1985-10-01

Pulmonary edema is the pathological increase of extravascular lung water found most often in patients with congestive heart failure and other critically ill patients who suffer from intravenous fluid overload. A non-invasive lung density monitor that is accurate, easily portable, safe and inexpensive is needed for clinical evaluation of pulmonary edema. Other researchers who have employed Compton scattering techniques generally used systems of extended size and detectors with poor energy resolution. This has resulted in significant systematic biases from multiply-scattered photons and larger errors in counting statistics at a given radiation dose to the patient. We are proposing a patented approach in which only backscattered photons are measured with a high-resolution HPGe detector in a compact system geometry. By proper design and a unique data extraction scheme, effects of the variable chest wall on lung density measurements are minimized. Preliminary test results indicate that with a radioactive source of under 30 GBq, it should be possible to make an accurate lung density measurement in one minute, with a risk of radiation exposure to the patient a thousand times smaller than that from a typical chest x-ray. The ability to make safe, frequent lung density measurements could be very helpful for monitoring the course of P.E. at the hospital bedside or outpatient clinics, and for evaluating the efficacy of therapy in clinical research. 6 refs., 5 figs.

The development of a Compton lung densitometer

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Loo, B.W.; Goulding, F.S.; Madden, N.W.; Simon, D.S.

1988-11-01

A field instrument is being developed for the non-invasive determination of absolute lung density using unique Compton backscattering techniques. A system consisting of a monoenergetic gamma-ray beam and a shielded high resolution high-purity-germanium (HPGe) detector in a close-coupled geometry is designed to minimize errors due to multiple scattering and uncontrollable attenuation in the chestwall. Results of studies on system performance with phantoms, the optimization of detectors, and the fabrication of a practical gamma-ray source are presented. 3 refs., 6 figs., 2 tabs.

The development of a Compton lung densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Loo, B.W.; Goulding, F.S.; Madden, N.W.; Simon, D.S.

1988-11-01

A field instrument is being developed for the non-invasive determination of absolute lung density using unique Compton backscattering techniques. A system consisting of a monoenergetic gamma-ray beam and a shielded high resolution high-purity-germanium (HPGe) detector in a close-coupled geometry is designed to minimize errors due to multiple scattering and uncontrollable attenuation in the chestwall. Results of studies on system performance with phantoms, the optimization of detectors, and the fabrication of a practical gamma-ray source are presented. 3 refs., 6 figs., 2 tabs

New Compton densitometer for measuring pulmonary edema

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Loo, B.W.; Goulding, F.S.; Simon, D.S.

1985-10-01

Pulmonary edema is the pathological increase of extravascular lung water found most often in patients with congestive heart failure and other critically ill patients who suffer from intravenous fluid overload. A non-invasive lung density monitor that is accurate, easily portable, safe and inexpensive is needed for clinical evaluation of pulmonary edema. Other researchers who have employed Compton scattering techniques generally used systems of extended size and detectors with poor energy resolution. This has resulted in significant systematic biases from multiply-scattered photons and larger errors in counting statistics at a given radiation dose to the patient. We are proposing a patented approach in which only backscattered photons are measured with a high-resolution HPGe detector in a compact system geometry. By proper design and a unique data extraction scheme, effects of the variable chest wall on lung density measurements are minimized. Preliminary test results indicate that with a radioactive source of under 30 GBq, it should be possible to make an accurate lung density measurement in one minute, with a risk of radiation exposure to the patient a thousand times smaller than that from a typical chest x-ray. The ability to make safe, frequent lung density measurements could be very helpful for monitoring the course of P.E. at the hospital bedside or outpatient clinics, and for evaluating the efficacy of therapy in clinical research. 6 refs., 5 figs

Pressure gauge experiments in India

Digital Repository Service at National Institute of Oceanography (India)

Joseph, A; Desa, E.; VijayKumar, K.; Desa, E.S.; Desai, R.G.P.; Prabhudesai, S.

. The effective mean density directly estimated by the use of a dual pressure gauge system was in close agreement with the density of water samples measured using a precision densitometer. Good quality sea level measurements can be obtained from pressure gauges...

No association between hip geometry and four common polymorphisms associated with fracture: the Danish osteoporosis prevention study

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Nissen, N; Madsen, J S; Bladbjerg, E M

2009-01-01

neck was measured using a Hologic QDR-2000 densitometer and femoral neck axis length, neck width, neck shaft angle, and femoral head diameter were measured from the screen images. Genotype frequencies were compatible with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. No significant differences between homozygotes...

Comparison of immersion density and improved microstructural characterization methods for measuring swelling in small irradiated disk specimens

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sawai, T.; Suzuki, M.; Hishinuma, A.; Maziasz, P.J.

1992-01-01

The procedure of obtaining microstructural data from reactor-irradiated specimens has been carefully checked for accuracy by comparison of swelling data obtained from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations of cavities with density-change data measured using the Precision Densitometer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Comparison of data measured by both methods on duplicate or, in some cases, on the same specimen has shown some appreciable discrepancies for US/Japan collaborative experiments irradiated in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). The contamination spot separation (CSS) method was used in the past to determine the thickness of a TEM foil. Recent work has revealed an appreciable error in this method that can result in an overestimation of the foil thickness. This error causes lower swelling values to be measured by TEM microstructural observation relative to the Precision Densitometer. An improved method is proposed for determining the foil thickness by the CSS method, which includes a correction for the systematic overestimation of foil thickness. (orig.)

Comparison of absolute speed of screen-film systems measured in seven institutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoshida, Ken-ichi; Murakami, Yasunori; Asahara, Masaki; Nakamura, Satoru; Honda, Mitsugi; Morishita, Junji; Higashida, Yoshiharu; Otsuka, Akiyoshi; Yoshida, Akira.

1998-01-01

We compared the differences in absolute speed of four screen-film systems in seven institutions. Four different screens (HR-4, Fuji; Lanex Medium, Kodak; Lanex 250, Kodak; and HR-12, Fuji) combined with super HRS-30 (Fuji) film and a beam quality of 80 kV tube voltage with a 20 mm aluminum filter were employed. Absolute speeds of the HR-4, Lanex Medium, Lanex 250, and HR-12 in combination with super HRS-30 were 1.83 mR -1 , 2.72 mR -1 , 2.79 mR -1 , and 5.35 mR -1 (average of seven institutions), respectively. The variation in speed was about ±10% for the seven institutions. Two factors (film processor and densitometer) affecting absolute speed were analyzed. The absolute speed measured in seven institutions varied ±14% depending on the film processor (development conditions) and ±3% depending on the densitometer employed in each institution. (author)

Sounding rocket flight report, MUMP 9 and MUMP 10

Science.gov (United States)

Grassl, H. J.

1971-01-01

The results of the launching of two-Marshall-University of Michigan Probes (MUMP 9 and MUMP 10), Nike-Tomahawk sounding rocket payloads, are summarized. The MUMP is similar to the thermosphere probe, an ejectable instrument package for studying the variability of the earth's atmospheric parameters. The MUMP 9 payload included an omegatron mass analyzer, a molecular fluorescence densitometer, a mini-tilty filter, and a lunar position sensor. This complement of instruments permitted the determination of the molecular nitrogen density and temperature in the altitude range from approximately 143 to 297 km over Wallops Island, Virginia, during January 1971. The MUMP 10 payload included an omegatron mass analyzer, an electron temperature probe, a cryogenic densitometer, and a solar position sensor. These instruments permitted the determination of the molecular nitrogen density and temperature and the charged particle density and temperature in the altitude range from approximately 145 to 290 km over Wallops Island during the afternoon preceding the MUMP 9 launch.

Analysis of multiphase flows using dual-energy gamma densitometry and neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bishop, C.M.; James, G.D.

1993-01-01

Dual-energy gamma densitometry offers a powerful technique for the non-intrusive analysis of multiphase flows. By employing multiple beam lines, information on the phase configuration can be obtained. Once the configuration is known, it then becomes possible in principle to determine the phase fractions. In practice, however, the extraction of the phase fractions from the densitometer data is complicated by the wide variety of phase configurations which can arise, and by the considerable difficulties of modelling multiphase flows. In this paper we show that neural network techniques provide a powerful approach to the analysis of data from dual-energy gamma densitometers, allowing both the phase configuration and the phase fractions to be determined with high accuracy, whilst avoiding the uncertainties associated with modelling. The technique is well suited to the determination of oil, water and gas fractions in multiphase oil pipelines. Results from linear and non-linear network models are compared, and a new technique for validating the network output is described. (orig.)

Observed and theoretical spectra in the 10-100 A interval. [of solar spectra

Science.gov (United States)

Brown, W. A.; Bruner, M. E.; Acton, L. W.

1988-01-01

The soft X-ray spectra recorded in two sounding-rocket flights in 1982 and 1985 are compared with predicted spectra. The processed densitometer trace of the full spectrum is presented, together with the new spectrum from the 1985 experiment. The intensities of the lines are then compared with predictions.

MTHFR c.677C>T polymorphism as an independent predictor of peak bone mass in Danish men

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Abrahamsen, Bo; Jørgensen, Henrik L; Nielsen, Torben Leo

2006-01-01

in the Odense Androgen Study. BMD at the spine, hip and whole-body was measured using a Hologic QDR-4500 densitometer. Genotype frequencies were compatible with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Spine BMD was significantly associated with genotype, with a decrease in BMD of 0.20 SD for each copy of the T...

MTHFR c.677C>T polymorphism as an indepent predictor of peak bone mass in Danish men - results from the Odense Androgen Study

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Abrahamsen, Bo; Jørgensen, Henrik L.; Nielsen, Torben L.

2005-01-01

in the Odense Androgen Study. BMD at the spine, hip and whole-body was measured using a Hologic QDR-4500 densitometer. Genotype frequencies were compatible with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Spine BMD was significantly associated with genotype, with a decrease in BMD of 0.20 SD for each copy of the T...

A new Compton densitometer for measuring pulmonary edema

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Loo, B.W.; Goulding, F.S.; Simon, S.

1986-01-01

Pulmonary edema (PE) is the pathological increase of extravascular lung water found most often in patients with congestive heart failure and other critically ill patients who suffer from intravenous fluid overload. The chest x-ray, the standard method for validating the presence of PE, is neither quantitative nor sensitive. A non-invasive lung density monitor that is accurate, easily portable, safe and inexpensive is needed for clinical use. To deal with the problem of attenuation along the beam paths, previous gamma-ray techniques require simultaneous measurement of transmitted and scattered beams. Since multiple scattering is a strong function of the density of the scattering medium and the mass distribution within the detection geometry, there will be inherent uncertainties in the system calibration unless it is performed on a body structure closely matched to that of each individual patient. Other researchers who have employed Compton scattering techniques generally used systems of extended size and detectors with poor energy resolution. This has resulted in significant systematic biases from multiply-scattered photons and larger errors in counting statistics at a given radiation dose to the patient. We are proposing a patented approach in which only backscattered photons are measured with a high-resolution HPGe detector in a compact system geometry. By proper design and a unique data extraction scheme, effects of the variable chest wall on lung density measurements are minimized. Preliminary test results indicate that with a radioactive source of under 30 GBq, it should be possible to make an accurate lung density, measurement in one minute, with a risk of radiation exposure to the patient a thousand times smaller than that from a typical chest x-ray

Instrumentation for localized measurements in two-phase flow conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Neff, G.G.; Averill, R.H.; Shurts, S.W.

1979-01-01

Three types of instrumentation that have been developed by EG and G Idaho, Inc., and its predecessor, Aerojet Nuclear company, at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory to investigate two-phase flow phenomenon in a nuclear reactor at the Loss-of-Fluid Test (LOFT) facility are discussed: (a) a combination drag disc-turbine transducer (DTT), (b) a multibeam nuclear hardened gamma densitometer system, and (c) a conductivity sensitive liquid level transducer (LLT). The DTT obtains data on the complex problem of two-phase flow conditions in the LOFT primary coolant system during a loss-os-coolant experiment (LOCE). The discussion of the DTT describes how a turbine, measuring coolant velocity, and a drag disc, measuring coolant momentum flux, can provide valuable mass flow data. The nuclear hardened gamma densitometer is used to obtain density and flow regime information for two-phase flow in the LOFT primary coolant system during a LOCE. The LLT is used to measure water and steam conditions within the LOFT reactor core during a LOCE. The LLT design and the type of data obtained are described

Sounding rocket flight report: MUMP 9 and MUMP 10

Science.gov (United States)

Grassl, H. J.

1971-01-01

The results of the launching of two Marshall-University of Michigan Probes (MUMP 9 and MUMP 10), Nike-Tomahawk sounding rocket payloads, are summarized. The MUMP 9 paylaod included an omegatron mass analyzer, a molecular fluorescence densitometer, a mini-tilty filter, and a lunar position sensor. This complement of instruments permitted the determination of the molecular nitrogen density and temperature in the altitude range from approximately 143 to 297 km over Wallops Island, Virginia, during January 1971. The MUMP 10 payload included an omegatron mass analyzer, an electron temperature probe (Spencer, Brace, and Carignan, 1962), a cryogenic densitometer, and a solar position sensor. This complement of instruments permitted the determination of the molecular nitrogen density and temperature and the charged particle density and temperature in the altitude range from approximately 145 to 290 km over Wallops Island, Virginia, during the afternoon preceding the MUMP 9 launch in January 1971. A general description of the payload kinematics, orientation analysis, and the technique for the reduction and analysis of the data is given.

Quantitative spark-source analysis of UO2-PuO2 for rare earths and tantalum, tungsten

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alkire, G.J.

A quantitative analytical technique good to 20% for the determination of Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ta, and W in Pu-U mixed oxides by spark source mass spectrography has been developed. The technique uses La as an added internal standard and an electronic integrator to measure peak areas of each line photometered on the densitometer. 3 tables

Gamma-ray monitor for plutonium uniformity in fuel tubes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Winn, W.G.

1981-01-01

Plutonium fuel tubes must be examined for abnormal PuO 2 densities. A fuel-gamma densitometer (FGD) was developed to measure the PuO 2 content within 3.2-mm-diameter areas. The FGD measurement of hot spot densities is an extension of the usual gamma-scanner application of verifying fuel uniformity within a few percent

Nature of the emission band of Dergaon meteorite in the region ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

available colour film is used to photograph the spectrum. 3. Results and discussion. Figure 1 demonstrates the general feature of the emission band system in the region. 5700–6700 Å along with the Ar+ lasing line at 5145 Å. The emission band system and its densitometer tracing as shown in figure 2 indicate the diffuse ...

Adaptation of the Nelson-Somogyi reducing-sugar assay to a microassay using microtiter plates.

Science.gov (United States)

Green, F; Clausen, C A; Highley, T L

1989-11-01

The Nelson-Somogyi assay for reducing sugars was adapted to microtiter plates. The primary advantages of this modified assay are (i) smaller sample and reagent volumes, (ii) elimination of boiling and filtration steps, (iii) automated measurement with a dual-wavelength scanning TLC densitometer, (iv) increased range and reproducibility, and (v) automated colorimetric readings by reflectance rather than absorbance.

The Role of Osteoblast-Derived Cytokines in Bone Metastatic Breast Cancer

Science.gov (United States)

2009-01-01

transform infrared microspectroscopy [34]. The MC3T3-E1 cultures, however, contained material of an unknown origin that represented dystrophic...x- ray densitometer (GE Medical Systems, Fitchburg, WI) and scanned via a Dual Energy X- ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. Company-provided software...including osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis , and skeletal metastases, resulting in osteoclast activity in excess of bone deposition by osteoblasts with

Reactor vessel and core two-phase flow ultrasonic densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Arave, A.E.

1979-01-01

A local ultrasonic density (LUD) detector has been developed by EG and G Idaho, Inc., at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) for the Loss-of-Fluid Test (LOFT) reactor vessel and core two-phase flow density measurements. The principle of operating the sensor is the change in propagation time of a torsional ultrasonic wave in a metal transmission line as a function of the density of the surrounding media. A theoretical physics model is presented which represents the total propagation time as a function of the sensor modulus of elasticity and polar moment of inertia. Separate effects tests and two-phase flow tests have been conducted to characterize the detector. Tests show the detector can perform in a 343 0 C pressurized water reactor environment and measure the average density of the media surrounding the sensor

Concentration of rat brown adipose tissue uncoupling protein may not be correlated with 3H-GDP binding

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Henningfield, M.F.; Swick, A.G.; Swick, R.W.

1986-01-01

Rats fed diets low in protein or exposed to cold show an increase in brown adipose tissue (BAT) mitochondrial 3 H-GDP binding. To investigate this phenomenon further, the uncoupling protein associated with BAT function was measured immunochemically on nitrocellulose blots. Quantitation of uncoupling protein was achieved by densitometer scanning with a BioRad densitometer. Peaks were integrated with Chromatochart software and an Apple IIe computer. A standard curve of purified uncoupling protein (50 to 500 ng) was used to calculate uncoupling protein concentration. There is a 1.5-fold increase in uncoupling protein per mg of protein in BAT mitochondria from rats exposed to cold for 15 days. There was no decrease in uncoupling protein from rats exposed to the cold followed by 24 h at 27 0 C although 3 H-GDP binding had decreased by half. Rats fed diets containing either 5 or 15% lactalbumin for 3 weeks did not show differences in uncoupling protein concentration although 3 H-GDP binding was 1.5-fold greater in BAT mitochondria from the low protein group. These results indicate that GDP binding does not necessarily reflect the concentration of uncoupling protein in BAT mitochondria

Evaluation of advanced two-phase flow instrumentation in SCTF Core-1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Iwamura, Takamichi; Sobajima, Makoto; Osakabe, Masahiro; Ohnuki, Akira; Abe, Yutaka; Sudo, Yukio; Adachi, Hiromichi

1984-03-01

In the Slab Core Test Facility (SCTF) Core-I, advanced two-phase flow instruments have been provided by the USNRC to measure the thermohydraulic behavior in the primary system including pressure vessel during the end of blowdown, refill and reflood phases of a postulated loss-of-coolant accident in a pressurized water reactor. The advanced instruments are turbine meters, drag disks, γ-densitometers, spool pieces, liquid level detectors (LLD), fluid distribution grids (FDG), impedance probes (flag, prong and string probes), film probes, and video optical probes. This report presents evaluated results of the data from these instruments. Some instruments are quantitatively evaluated by comparing with the data from the conventional instruments or the other advanced instruments. Main conclusions are as follows: (1) The spool pieces and the γ-densitometers work well and provide satisfactory results; (2) Some of the turbine meters, the impedance probes and the film probes give partially reasonable results, but still more improvements are required; (3) Most of the LLDs, the FDGs, the impedance probes, and the film probes do not work well due to a hard cable corrosion, and (4) The video optical probes give clear image of the flow pattern. (author)

Automated on-line L-edge measurement of SNM concentration for near-real-time accounting

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Russo, P.A.; Marks, T. Jr.; Stephens, M.M.; Baker, A.L.; Cobb, D.D.

1982-09-01

An L-edge densitometer has been modified, tested, and demonstrated for on-line assay of special nuclear material concentration in flowing solution streams. The demonstration was part of a larger demonstration of near-real-time nuclear materials accounting during a continuous, week-long, cold operation of the Barnwell facility. The L-edge data were automatically analyzed and the results were transmitted to the materials accounting computer once every 5.5 min for the duration of the cold run. This report compares the results of the L-edge analyses with the delayed results obtained from destructive analysis of samples withdrawn from the same process line. Comparisons are also made with the results obtained in near real time from an automated process control instrument installed in series with the L-edge densitometer. The performance of the L-edge instrument was reliable throughout the continuous operation. The assay precision was consistent with that predicted by the counting statistics of the measurement. The results of the L-edge assays show good agreement with those of the destructive assays. A gradually varying discrepancy (of a few percent) between the L-edge and the process control results remains unexplained

Use of Radiographic Densitometry to Predict the Bone Healing Index in Distraction Osteogenesis

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

A Saw

2008-04-01

Full Text Available Bone lengthening with distraction osteogenesis involves prolonged application of an external fixator frame. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of callus has been described using various imaging modalities but there is no simple reliable and readily available method. This study aims to investigate the use of a densitometer to analyze plain radiographic images and correlate them with the rate of new bone formation as represented by the bone healing index. A total of 34 bone lengthening procedures in 29 patients were retrospectively reviewed. We used an X-Rite 301 densitometer to measure densities of new callus on plain radiographs taken at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. Patients aged below 16y had significantly lower BHIs indicating faster bone healing and shorter duration of treatment. The ratio of radiographic densities between centre and edge of the new bone measured from plain radiographs taken at 8 weeks correlated positively with the eventual BHI of the patient. This method provides a simple and easy way to predict the rate of bone healing at an early stage of treatment and may also allow remedial action to be taken for those with poor progress in bone formation.

Measurement of humerus and radius bone mineral content in the term and preterm infant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vyhmeister, N.R.; Linkhart, T.A.

1988-01-01

We compared two anatomic sites for single-photon absorptiometric measurement of bone mineral content (BMC) in term and preterm infants. The distal one third of the radius and the midportion of the humerus were evaluated for measurements of BMC with an unmodified, commercially available bone densitometer. We assessed reproducibility of BMC and bone width (BW) measurements and defined normal at-birth ranges of BMC, BW, and BMC/BW ratio for infants with gestational ages of 24 to 42 weeks. Humerus BMC correlated with gestational age, birth weight, and BW of patients and did not differ from humerus BMC values determined over the same range of gestational ages at another center. Representative serial measurements of two very low birth weight (VLBW) infants are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of using humerus BMC in longitudinal studies to assess changes in bone mineralization. We conclude that bone densitometer measurements of mid-humerus BMC can be successfully performed and are preferable to similar measurements of the radius for VLBW infants. Normal humerus BMC values were defined for use in diagnosis and evaluation of the efficacy of treatment in VLBW infants who are at high risk of developing osteopenia of prematurity

IDENTIFIKASI DAN PENETAPAN KADAR SENYAWA KUMARIN DALAM EKSTRAK METANOL Artemisia Annua L. SECARA KROMATOGRAFI LAPIS TIPIS - DENSITOMETRI

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sukmayati Alegantina

2012-08-01

Full Text Available Abstract. Artemisia annua L. contain the active compounds include: terpenoids, flavonoids, kumarin, artemisinin acid, artennuin B, phenols, saponins, and fat. Kumarin and its derivatives have biological activity that can stimulate skin pigment, blood anticoagulation and can inhibit the effects of carcinogens. With this biological activity of kumarin, the research is done to ensure there is kumarin by identification and measure kumarin level which is contained in the Artemisia annua L. herb. The analysis methods include the extraction and fractionation. Identification and determination of level with Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC using a Densitometer CS-9301 PC. From the result of TLC identification of kumarin standard known that Artemisia annua L extract contain kumarin compound which marked by a blue spot flouresense on standards and methanol extract of artemisia annua L. seeing under UV light at a wavelength of 366 nm with Rf value of standard and sample is 0.31, the measurement of kumarin spot with Densitometer known that kumarin concentration in the extract of Artemisia annua L. is 10.5 ul/ ml with 105% RecoveryKeywords: Artemisia annua L, kumarin, TLC-Densitometry

Radiotherapy film densitometry using a slow-scan, cooled, digital CCD imaging system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Burch, S.E.

1993-01-01

A method of performing high-resolution two-dimensional film densitometry for full size radiographic film (35 x 43 cm) using a cooled CCD camera was proposed. Studies were performed to evaluate the physical characteristics of the camera system and recommendations were made to assure maximum accuracy of density measurement. Test films of various sizes and densities, as well as clinical dosimetry films, were measured with the CCD densitometer and the reference transmission densitometer. The measured densities agreed within the stated accuracy of the transmission densitometer for all films with maximum density less than or equal to 1.5 optical density units. The 0.2 mm spatial resolution with 4096 shades of gray made it possible to study dose distributions even for films containing areas of high dose gradients. Patient verification radiographs were used to study exit beam dose distributions to detect errors in beam placement, patient position, and proper placement of beam modifying devices such as wedges and compensators. For studying photon beam dose distributions within phantoms, a method was developed using lead foils placed lateral to the film plane to filter very low energy scattered photons. The error in measurement of central axis percentage depth dose from film for 4 MV x-rays, 25 x 25 cm field was decreased from 65% to 4%. The method requires only two calibration films for density to dose conversion and represents an important advance in the field of film densitometry for radiotherapy. The technique was applied to the study of dynamic wedge dose distribution from a 6 MV linear accelerator. The phantom modification decreased the error in percentage depth dose from 21% to 1% for the 15 x 15 cm beam with 60 degree wedge angle. Profile off-axis errors for the same beam were decreased from 8% to 3%. The film dosimetry system provides fast, high resolution film density data for use in radiotherapy imaging and quality assurance

Preamplifier-discriminator for a photomultiplier

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Groshev, V.Ya.; Zabrodskij, V.A.

1986-01-01

A simple preamplifier-discriminator intended for processing fluxes of low-energy X-radiation in combination with a scintillation detector is suggested. Utilization of the 564LE5 microcircuit in the preamplifier-discriminator permits to use general supply, with digital logical microcircuits. Operation of the preamplifier-discriminator during some years as a part of the RPP-1 X-ray densitometer displayed good repeatibility of parameters of the device and its reliability

The clinical determination of absolute density in bone utilizing single and dual energy compton scattering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Huddleston, A.L.; Weaver, J.

1980-01-01

Several methods important in the clinical diagnosis of skeletal diseases have been proposed for the determination of bone mass, such as photon absorptiometry, computed tomography, and neutron activation. None of these present methods provides for the determination of the physical density of bone. In the Radiological Physics Research Laboratory at the University of Virginia, the principles of Compton scattering are being investigated with the intent of determining the electron density and the physical density of human bone. A Compton-scatter densitometer has been constructed for the in vivo density determination of the femoral head. This technique utilizes of collimated low energy gamma source and detector system. The method has been tested in cadavers and in known density samples and has an accuracy of 2 %. A second densitometer has been designed for the in vivo determination of electron density of the vertebrae based upon a new technique which employs dual energy Compton scattering in the spinal column. These systems will be discussed; and the principles of dual energy Compton scatter densitometry will be presented. The importance of these isotope techniques and the feasibility of in vivo density determination in the vertebrae and femoral head will be discussed as they relate to clinical diagnosis and research. (author)

Automated on-line L-edge measurement of SNM concentration for near-real-time accounting

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Russo, P.A.; Marks, T. Jr.; Stephens, M.M.; Hsue, S.T.; Baker, A.L.; Cobb, D.D.

1982-01-01

The L-edge densitometer developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory has been modified, tested, and demonstrated for on-line assay of special nuclear material concentration in flowing solution streams. The demonstration was part of a larger demonstration of near-real-time nuclear materials accounting during a continuous, week-long, cold operation of the Allied General Nuclear Services facility in Barnwell, South Carolina. The L-edge data were automatically analyzed and the results were transmitted to the materials accounting computer once every 5.5 min for the duration of the cold run. This report compares the results of the L-edge analyses with the delayed results obtained from destructive analysis of samples withdrawn from the same process line. Comparisons are also made with the results obtained in near real time from an automated process control instrument installed in series with the L-edge densitometer. The performance of the L-edge instrument was reliable throughout the continous operation. The assay precision was consistent with that predicted by the counting statistics of the measurement. The results of the L-edge assays show good agreement with those of the destructive assays. A gradually varying discrepancy (of a few percent) between the L-edge and the process control results remains unexplained. 9 figures

Whole-body bone mineral content, lean body mass, and fat mass measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in a population of normal Canadian children and adolescents

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sala, A. [McMaster Children' s Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); McMaster Univ., Dept. of Pediatrics, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); Univ. of Milan-Bicocca, Monza (Italy); Webber, C.E. [Hamilton Health Sciences, Dept. of Nuclear Medicine, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); McMaster Univ., Dept. of Radiology, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada)]. E-mail: webber@hhsc.ca; Morrison, J. [McMaster Children' s Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); Beaumont, L.F. [Hamilton Health Sciences, Dept. of Nuclear Medicine, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); Barr, R.D. [McMaster Children' s Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); McMaster Univ., Dept. of Pediatrics, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada)

2007-02-15

Measurements of body composition have evident value in evaluating growing children and adolescents, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a tool that provides accurate measurements of whole-body bone mineral content (WBBMC), lean body mass (LBM), and fat mass (FM). To interpret such measurements in the context of ill health, normative values must be available. Such information could be expected to be regionally specific because of differences in ethnic, dietary, and physical activity determinants. In this study, DXA was performed with Hologic densitometers in normal girls (n = 91) and boys (n 88) between 3 and 18 years of age. The derivation of normal ranges is presented for boys and girls. The correlation of the sum of WBBMC, LBM, and FM with directly measured body weight was almost perfect (r > 0.997). As expected, FM and body mass index correlated strongly. The normal values for WBBMC, LBM, and FM from this study are compared with other Canadian data and with published normative data from Argentina and the Netherlands, all of which use different densitometers. The results of this study allow the calculation of z scores for each facet of body composition and facilitate the use of DXA to report routine evaluations of body composition in children and adolescents. (author)

Whole-body bone mineral content, lean body mass, and fat mass measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in a population of normal Canadian children and adolescents

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sala, A.; Webber, C.E.; Morrison, J.; Beaumont, L.F.; Barr, R.D.

2007-01-01

Measurements of body composition have evident value in evaluating growing children and adolescents, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a tool that provides accurate measurements of whole-body bone mineral content (WBBMC), lean body mass (LBM), and fat mass (FM). To interpret such measurements in the context of ill health, normative values must be available. Such information could be expected to be regionally specific because of differences in ethnic, dietary, and physical activity determinants. In this study, DXA was performed with Hologic densitometers in normal girls (n = 91) and boys (n 88) between 3 and 18 years of age. The derivation of normal ranges is presented for boys and girls. The correlation of the sum of WBBMC, LBM, and FM with directly measured body weight was almost perfect (r > 0.997). As expected, FM and body mass index correlated strongly. The normal values for WBBMC, LBM, and FM from this study are compared with other Canadian data and with published normative data from Argentina and the Netherlands, all of which use different densitometers. The results of this study allow the calculation of z scores for each facet of body composition and facilitate the use of DXA to report routine evaluations of body composition in children and adolescents. (author)

Radioactive sources production in the Boris Kidric Institute of nuclear sciences

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Radosavljevic, B.; Nemoda, Dj.; Memedovic, T.; Bircanin, LJ.

1978-01-01

Since 1960, in the Laboratory for radioisotopes production of the Institute isotopes were produced for industrial, medical and research purposes. From the beginning, this activity was developed in two directions: 1. sealed sources, for industrial radiography, teletherapy Cobalt, later for lightning arresters, level meters, densitometers etc., 2. radioactive sources that need chemical treatment for different applications in industry and research. This paper lists the types of radioactive sources and methods for production [sr

Quantitative determination of anticonvulsant-induced bone demineralization by an improved x-ray densitometry technique

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wolschendorf, K.; Vanselow, K.; Schulz, H.; Moeller, W.D.

1983-10-01

Quantitative studies of the influence of anticonvulsant drugs on bone mineral content of 88 epileptics were performed by a microcomputer-aided densitometer system. The results showed that the mineral content decreases significantly with the duration of the therapy. This decrease was found to be approximately 1.2% per year for a Diphenylhydantoin (DPH) monotherapy and 1.8% per year and 2.0% per year for a DPH plus Phenobarbital and DPH plus Carbamazepin combination therapy.

Use of Radiographic Densitometry to Predict the Bone Healing Index in Distraction Osteogenesis

OpenAIRE

A Saw; S Manimaran; S Faizal; AM Bulgiba

2008-01-01

Bone lengthening with distraction osteogenesis involves prolonged application of an external fixator frame. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of callus has been described using various imaging modalities but there is no simple reliable and readily available method. This study aims to investigate the use of a densitometer to analyze plain radiographic images and correlate them with the rate of new bone formation as represented by the bone healing index. A total of 34 bone lengthening pro...

Pengaruh Jenis Lembar Penguat (Intensifying Screen) Terhadap Densitas Radiografi

OpenAIRE

Nasrullah

2007-01-01

good ABSTRACT As done research on the influence of type to the density radiography with the objective to define radiography value third-density intensifying screen brand green emitting variation factors exposure and Focus Film Distance is different. Influence of type of intensifying screen to the density radiography is obtained through measurements of the value of radiography density using the densitometer with object stepwedge. The results of this research show that the average dens...

System for uranium superficial density measurement in U3Si2 MTR fuel plates using radiography

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hey, Martin A.; Gomez Marlasca, Fernando

2003-01-01

The paper describes a method for measuring uranium superficial density in high density uranium silicide (U 3 Si 2 ) MTR fuel plates, through the use of industrial radiography, a set of patterns built for this purpose, a transmission optical densitometer, and a quantitative model of analysis and measurement. Our choice for this particular method responds to its high accuracy, low cost and easy implementation according to the standing quality control systems. (author)

Homogeneity and fissure determination in uranium bars with solid state nuclear track detectors

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Castillo, F. (Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City. Facultad de Ciencias); Gamboa, I.; Espinosa, G.; Tapia, A. (Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City. Inst. de Fisica); Somogyi, G. (Magyar Tudomanyos Akademia, Debrecen. Atommag Kutato Intezete)

1984-01-01

A simple and efficient method for determining fissure and concentration inhomogeneity in uranium bars is the alpha-radiographic technique. In our present work uranium bars made by ININ (Mexico) were studied by using CR-39 track detectors. The space inhomogeneity in track density was measured by an optical densitometer. The presence of fissure is determined by a microfiche reader. Such a study takes only few hours and does not require sophisticated instrumentation.

A DXA Whole Body Composition Cross-Calibration Experience: Evaluation With Humans, Spine, and Whole Body Phantoms.

Science.gov (United States)

Krueger, Diane; Libber, Jessie; Sanfilippo, Jennifer; Yu, Hui Jing; Horvath, Blaine; Miller, Colin G; Binkley, Neil

2016-01-01

New densitometer installation requires cross-calibration for accurate longitudinal assessment. When replacing a unit with the same model, the International Society for Clinical Densitometry recommends cross-calibrating by scanning phantoms 10 times on each instrument and states that spine bone mineral density (BMD) should be within 1%, whereas total body lean, fat, and %fat mass should be within 2% of the prior instrument. However, there is limited validation that these recommendations provide adequate total body cross-calibration. Here, we report a total body cross-calibration experience with phantoms and humans. Cross-calibration between an existing and new Lunar iDXA was performed using 3 encapsulated spine phantoms (GE [GE Lunar, Madison, WI], BioClinica [BioClinica Inc, Princeton, NJ], and Hologic [Hologic Inc, Bedford, MA]), 1 total body composition phantom (BioClinica), and 30 human volunteers. Thirty scans of each phantom and a total body scan of human volunteers were obtained on each instrument. All spine phantom BMD means were similar (within 1%; g/cm2 bias) between the existing and new dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry unit. The BioClinica body composition phantom (BBCP) BMD and bone mineral content (BMC) values were within 2% with biases of 0.005 g/cm2 and -3.4 g. However, lean and fat mass and %fat differed by 4.6%-7.7% with biases of +463 g, -496 g, and -2.8%, respectively. In vivo comparison supported BBCP data; BMD and BMC were within ∼2%, but lean and fat mass and %fat differed from 1.6% to 4.9% with biases of +833 g, -860 g, and -1.1%. As all body composition comparisons exceeded the recommended 2%, the new densitometer was recalibrated. After recalibration, in vivo bias was lower (g, respectively. Similarly, BBCP lean and fat agreement improved. In conclusion, the BBCP behaves similarly, but not identical, to human in vivo measurements for densitometer cross-calibration. Spine phantoms, despite good BMD and BMC agreement, did not detect

Radiation dose during mammography using various recording systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Heep, H.; Buelow-Johansen, T.; Klemencic, J.; Wegwitz, J.; Stadtkrankenhaus Offenbach

1978-01-01

Patient dose during mammography for various recording systems, such as film, film-screen combination and xeromammography was measured by thermoluminescent densitometers. In the first set of experiments we measured dose per exposure, in a second set total surface dose at five points on the breast, using the following combintions: a) Two industrial film exposures and one xeromammographic exposure. b) two film-screen exposures and one xeromammographic exposure. c) One industrial film and two xeromammographic exposures. (orig.) [de

Introductory physics of nuclear medicine. Third edition

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chandra, R.

1987-01-01

The new third edition includes essential details and many examples and problems taken from the routine practice of nuclear medicine. Basic principles and underlying concepts are explained, although it is assumed that the reader has some current use as a bone densitometer. For resident physicians in nuclear medicine, residents in pathology, radiology, and internal medicine, and students of nuclear medicine technology, the third edition offers a simplified and reliable approach to the physics and basic sciences of nuclear medicine

A quantitative determination of anticonvulsant-induced bone demineralization by an improved x-ray densitometry technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wolschendorf, K.; Vanselow, K.; Schulz, H.; Moeller, W.D.

1983-01-01

Quantitative studies of the influence of anticonvulsant drugs on bone mineral content of 88 epileptics were performed by a microcomputer-aided densitometer system. The results showed that the mineral content decreases significantly with the duration of the therapy. This decrease was found to be approximately 1.2% per year for a Diphenylhydantoin (DPH) monotherapy and 1.8% per year and 2.0% per year for a DPH plus Phenobarbital and DPH plus Carbamazepin combination therapy. (orig.)

Supine vs decubitus lateral patient positioning in vertebral fracture assessment.

Science.gov (United States)

Paggiosi, Margaret Anne; Finigan, Judith; Peel, Nicola; Eastell, Richard; Ferrar, Lynne

2012-01-01

In vertebral fracture assessment (VFA), lateral scans are obtained with the patient positioned supine (C-arm densitometers) or lateral decubitus (fixed-arm densitometers). We aimed to determine the impact of positioning on image quality and fracture definition. We performed supine and decubitus lateral VFA in 50 postmenopausal women and used the algorithm-based qualitative method to identify vertebral fractures. We compared the 2 techniques for the identification of fractures (kappa analysis) and compared the numbers of unreadable vertebrae (indiscernible endplates) and vertebrae that were projected obliquely (Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test). The kappa score for agreement between the VFA techniques (to identify women with vertebral fractures) was 0.84 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68-0.99), and for agreement with fracture assessments made from radiographs, kappa was 0.76 (95% CI: 0.57-0.94) for both supine and decubitus lateral VFA. There were more unreadable vertebrae with supine lateral (48 vertebrae in supine lateral compared with 14 in decubitus lateral; p=0.001), but oblique projection was less common (93 vertebrae compared with 145 in decubitus lateral; p=0.002). We conclude that there were significantly different projection effects with supine and decubitus lateral VFA, but these differences did not influence the identification of vertebral fractures in our study sample. Copyright © 2012 The International Society for Clinical Densitometry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Proposal to evaluate the use of ERTS-A imagery in mapping and managing soil and range resources in the Sand Hills Region of Nebraska

Science.gov (United States)

Drew, J. V. (Principal Investigator)

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. There appears to be a direct relationship between densitometry values obtained with MSS band 5 imagery and forage density for those range sites measured on the imagery, provided site category identification is indicated by other forms of imagery or ground truth. Overlap of density values for different site categories with differing forage condition classes does not allow assigning a given forage density value for a given densitometer value unless the range site category is known.

Comparison of gamma densitometer detectors used in loss of coolant studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shipp, R.L.

1979-01-01

Ionization chamber type gamma detectors are used in water-steam density measurements in loss of coolant studies at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Ionization chambers have replaced current-mode scintillation detectors to obtain stability and freedom from magnetic field interference. However, this change results in some loss of fast transient response. Results of studies comparing the transient response of ionization chamber detectors, plastic scintillation detectors, and sodium iodide (NaI) detectors to rapid changes in gamma intensity demonstrate that plastic scintillation detectors have the fastest response and most closely reproduce the transient; ionization chambers have an initial fast response followed by a slower response, which may produce errors in fast transient measurements; and NaI scintillation detectors have a moderately fast initial response followed by an extremely slow response, which produces errors in even slow transient measurements

Volumetric and calorimetric properties of aqueous ionene solutions.

Science.gov (United States)

Lukšič, Miha; Hribar-Lee, Barbara

2017-02-01

The volumetric (partial and apparent molar volumes) and calorimetric properties (apparent heat capacities) of aqueous cationic polyelectrolyte solutions - ionenes - were studied using the oscillating tube densitometer and differential scanning calorimeter. The polyion's charge density and the counterion properties were considered as variables. The special attention was put to evaluate the contribution of electrostatic and hydrophobic effects to the properties studied. The contribution of the CH 2 group of the polyion's backbone to molar volumes and heat capacities was estimated. Synergistic effect between polyion and counterions was found.

Maintenance and fabrication of electronic equipment

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chung, Chong Soo; Moon, Byung Soo; Hong, Suk Boong; Kim, Yong Keun; Kim, Jung Bok

2000-12-01

Providing technical support to the maintenance and repair problems of electronic instruments, we have assisted the research and development work, and reduced operation cost of the pilot plants in KAERI. In addition, we have improved the performance of the data processing system of RMS, and modified the cyclic box and IND100 using PLCs which are a facility for airborne monitoring in radiation area and lamp control modules of radiation monitoring control panel respectively. And also, a gamma-ray densitometer for KNGR has been designed and fabricated.

Flow and heat transfer regimes during quenching of hot surfaces

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barnea, Y.; Elias, E.

1993-05-01

Reflooding experiments have been performed to study flow and heat transfer regimes in a heated annular vertical channel under supercooled inlet conditions. A gamma densitometer was employed to determine the void fraction as a function of the distance from the quench front. Surface heat fluxes were determined by fast measurements of the temperature spatial distribution. Two quench front is shown to lie in the transition boiling region which spreads into the dry and wet segments of the heated surface. (authors) 5 refs, 3 figs

Joint programme on the technical development and further improvement of IAEA safeguards between the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany and the International Atomic Energy Agency. Task C.17

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eberle, H.; Ottmar, H.

1986-04-01

This report describes the design and operation of the KfK hybrid X-ray densitometer. The instrument, based on the techniques of K-edge X-ray absorptiometry and K X-ray fluorescence analysis, is primarily designed for a simultaneous assay of the uranium and plutonium concentrations in highly radioactive reprocessing input solutions. The element concentrations are measured with an accuracy of better than 0.3% (1σ) for uranium, and of 1% (1σ) for plutonium, respectively, in a 1000 s counting time. (orig.)

New developments in radiochromic film dosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Soares, C. G.

2006-01-01

NIST has been a pioneer in the use of radiochromic film for medical dosimetry applications. Beginning in 1988 with experiments with 90 Sr/Y ophthalmic applicators, this work has continued into the present. A review of the latest applications is presented, which include high activity low-energy photon source dosimetry and ultra-high resolution film densitometry for dose enhancement near stents and microbeam radiation therapy dosimetry. An exciting recent development is the availability of a new radiochromic emulsion which has been developed for IMRT dosimetry. This emulsion is an order of magnitude more sensitive than was previously available. Measurements of the sensitivity and uniformity of samples of this new film are reported, using a spectrophotometer and two scanning laser densitometers. A unique feature of the new emulsion is that the peak of the absorbance spectrum falls at the wavelength of the HeNe lasers used in the densitometer, maximising sensitivity. When read at a wavelength of 633 nm, sensitivities on the order of 900 mAU Gy -1 were determined for this new film type, compared with about 40 mAU Gy -1 for type HS film, 20 mAU Gy -1 for type MD-55-2 film, and 3 mAU Gy -1 for type HD-810. Film uniformities were found to be good, on the order of 6% peak to peak. However, there is a strong polarisation effect in the samples examined, requiring care in film orientation during readout. (authors)

The use of infrared absorption to determine density of liquid hydrogen.

Science.gov (United States)

Unland, H. D.; Timmerhaus, K. D.; Kropschot, R. H.

1972-01-01

Experimental evaluation of the use of infrared absorption for determining the density of liquid hydrogen, and discussion of the feasibility of an airborne densitometer based on this concept. The results indicate that infrared absorption of liquid hydrogen is highly sensitive to the density of hydrogen, and, under the operating limitations of the equipment and experimental techniques used, the determined values proved to be repeatable to an accuracy of 2.7%. The desiderata and limitations of an in-flight density-determining device are outlined, and some of the feasibility problems are defined.

Design of a computerized application for the quality control of film automatic processors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Merillas del Castillo, A.; Guibelalde del Castillo, E.; Fernandez Soto, J.M.; Vano carruana, E.

1997-01-01

The description of a free ware software for quality control of film automatic processors in diagnostic radiology developed by the authors is presented (CC-PRO ver 1.0). The application has been developed for using with automatic scanning densitometers, type X-Rite 380, being also able for manual data acquisition. By means of standard sensitometric techniques and the thus developed software, the trend analysis of the sensitometric variables and the film processor diagnostic could be carried out with an important production improvement, easy management and test consistency. (Author) 6 refs

A computer database system to calculate staff radiation doses and maintain records

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Clewer, P.

1985-01-01

A database has been produced to record the personal dose records of all employees monitored for radiation exposure in the Wessex Health Region. Currently there are more than 2000 personnel in 115 departments but the capacity of the database allows for expansion. The computer is interfaced to a densitometer for film badge reading. The hardware used by the database, which is based on a popular microcomputer, is described, as are the various programs that make up the software. The advantages over the manual card index system that it replaces are discussed. (author)

Two-phase flow measurements with advanced instrumented spool pieces and local conductivity probes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Turnage, K.G.; Davis, C.E.

1979-01-01

A series of two-phase, air-water and steam-water tests performed with instrumented spool pieces and with conductivity probes obtained from Atomic Energy of Canada, Ltd. is described. The behavior of the three-beam densitometer, turbine meter, and drag flowmeter is discussed in terms of two-phase models. Application of some two-phase mass flow models to the recorded spool piece data is made and preliminary results are shown. Velocity and void fraction information derived from the conductivity probes is presented and compared to velocities and void fractions obtained using the spool piece instrumentation

Design and construction of a computerized optical densitometer for X-ray films

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vicuna V, H.G.; Picon C, C.; Zaharia B, M.

1998-01-01

In Radiotherapy Departments, where it is disposed of radiation units, these require of a control quality of their parameters as: dose in depth, real size, symmetry and levelling of the radiation field. In order to fulfil above it was designed and built a totally automated system for scanning and analysing the X-ray films or plates, which serve to have the parameter information to be measured. (Author)

The curvature of sensitometric curves for Kodak XV-2 film irradiated with photon and electron beams.

Science.gov (United States)

van Battum, L J; Huizenga, H

2006-07-01

Sensitometric curves of Kodak XV-2 film, obtained in a time period of ten years with various types of equipment, have been analyzed both for photon and electron beams. The sensitometric slope in the dataset varies more than a factor of 2, which is attributed mainly to variations in developer conditions. In the literature, the single hit equation has been proposed as a model for the sensitometric curve, as with the parameters of the sensitivity and maximum optical density. In this work, the single hit equation has been translated into a polynomial like function as with the parameters of the sensitometric slope and curvature. The model has been applied to fit the sensitometric data. If the dataset is fitted for each single sensitometric curve separately, a large variation is observed for both fit parameters. When sensitometric curves are fitted simultaneously it appears that all curves can be fitted adequately with a sensitometric curvature that is related to the sensitometric slope. When fitting each curve separately, apparently measurement uncertainty hides this relation. This relation appears to be dependent only on the type of densitometer used. No significant differences between beam energies or beam modalities are observed. Using the intrinsic relation between slope and curvature in fitting sensitometric data, e.g., for pretreatment verification of intensity-modulated radiotherapy, will increase the accuracy of the sensitometric curve. A calibration at a single dose point, together with a predetermined densitometer-dependent parameter ODmax will be adequate to find the actual relation between optical density and dose.

Quality Assessment of Film Processing Chemicals in Dentistry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Han, Mi Ra; Kang, Byung Chul

1999-01-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the qualities of the four different processing chemicals (solutions). With EP 21 films (Ektaspeed plus film, Kodak Co., USA), nine unexposed and nine exposed films of a step wedge were processed utilizing automatic film processor (XR 24, Durr Co., Germany) for 5 days. During 5 days, the total number of processed films including out-patient's intraoral films were about 400-500 for each brand. Base plus fog density, film density, contrast of processed films were measured with densitometer (model 07-443 digital densitometer, Victoreen Co., USA). These measurements were analyzed for comparison. The results were as follows,1. For the base plus fog density, there was significant difference among the four chemicals (p<0.05). The sequence of the base plus fog densities was in ascending order by Kodak, X-dol 90, Agfa and Konica. 2. For the film density, all chemicals showed useful range of photographic densities (0.25-2.5). The sequence of the film densities was in ascending order by Kodak, X-dol 90, Konica and Agfa. But there was no statistically significant difference of film density between X-dol and Kodak (p<0.05). 3. The sequence of the contrasts was in ascending order by Konica, X-dol 90, Kodak and Agfa. But there was no statistically significant difference of contrast between X-dol and Konica (p<0.05). These results indicated that the four processing chemicals had the clinically useful film density and contrast, but only Kodak processing chemical had useful base plus fog density.

Analysis of image factors of x-ray films : study for the intelligent replenishment system of automatic film processor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Park, Sung Tae; Yoon, Chong Hyun; Park, Kwang BO; Auh, Yong Ho; Lee, Hyoung Jin; In, Kyung Hwan; Kim, Keon Chung [Asan Medical Center, Ulsan Univ. College of Medicine, Ulsan (Korea, Republic of)

1998-06-01

We analyzed image factors to determine the characteristic factors that need for intelligent replenishment system of the auto film processor. We processed the serial 300 sheets of radiographic films of chest phantom without replenishment of developing and fixation replenisher. We took the digital data by using film digitizer which scanned the films and automatically summed up the pixel values of the films. We analyzed characteristic curves, average gradients and relative speeds of individual film using densitometer and step densitometry. We also evaluated the pH of developer, fixer, and washer fluid with digital pH meter. Fixer residual rate and washing effect were measured by densitometer using the reagent methods. There was no significant reduction of the digital density numbers of the serial films without replenishment of developer and fixer. The average gradients were gradually decreased by 0.02 and relative speeds were also gradually decreased by 6.96% relative to initial standard step-densitometric measurement. The pHs of developer and fixer were reflected the inactivation of each fluid. The fixer residual rates and washing effects after processing each 25 sheets of films were in the normal range. We suggest that the digital data are not reliable due to limitation of the hardware and software of the film digitizer. We conclude that average gradient and relative speed which mean the film's contrast and sensitivity respectively are reliable factors for determining the need for the replenishment of the auto film processor. We need more study of simpler equations and programming for more intelligent replenishment system of the auto film processor.

Evaluation of a compact portable DEXA unit for wrist densitometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mares, T.; Bonovas, G.; Larcos, G. [Westmead Hospital, Sydney, NSW (Australia). Department of Nuclear Medicine

1998-06-01

Full text: Recently, a number of manufacturers have introduced compact, portable DEXA units in order to facilitate osteoporosis screening in remote communities and on an in-office basis. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of the Norland-Stratec (pDEXA) compared to measurements obtained using a conventional densitometer (Norland XR-36). We recruited 61 adults (3 men, 58 women) with mean age 54 years (range: 19-76) referred for clinical assessment of BMD. Most patients had medications (n=39; 64%) or disorders (n=48;79%) known to interfere with bone mineral metabolism. Subjects underwent bone densitometry of the lumbar spine, (AP; L2-4) femoral neck and distal radius/ulna of the nondominant forearm using the Norland XR-36, with the wrist subsequently re-scanned on pDEXA. Four subjects also underwent 5 scans each on the pDEXA. Mean BMD for the distal radius/ulna was 0.30g/cm2 (range: 0.17 - 0.539/cm2; XR-36) vs 0.319/cm2 (range: 0.18-0.56 g/cm2; pDEXA), r = 0.98 (SEE = 0.07). Mean BMC for the distal radius/ulna was 1.229 (range: 0.67-2.59; XR-36) vs 1.289 (range:0.74-2.69; pDEXA), r = 0.97 (SEE= 0.08). The CV for pDEXA was 0.8% (BMD) and 2.5% (BMC). Thus, we conclude that pDEXA has excellent in-vivo reproducibility, with good correlation of BMD and BMC with standard densitometers

Pattern recognition techniques for horizontal and vertically upward multiphase flow measurement

Science.gov (United States)

Arubi, Tesi I. M.; Yeung, Hoi

2012-03-01

The oil and gas industry need for high performing and low cost multiphase meters is ever more justified given the rapid depletion of conventional oil reserves that has led oil companies to develop smaller and marginal fields and reservoirs in remote locations and deep offshore, thereby placing great demands for compact and more cost effective solutions of on-line continuous multiphase flow measurement for well testing, production monitoring, production optimisation, process control and automation. The pattern recognition approach for clamp-on multiphase measurement employed in this study provides one means for meeting this need. High speed caesium-137 radioisotope-based densitometers were installed vertically at the top of a 50.8mm and 101.6mm riser as well as horizontally at the riser base in the Cranfield University multiphase flow test facility. A comprehensive experimental campaign comprising flow conditions typical of operating conditions found in the Petroleum Industry was conducted. The application of a single gamma densitometer unit, in conjunction with pattern recognition techniques to determine both the phase volume fractions and velocities to yield the individual phase flow rates of horizontal and vertically upward multiphase flows was investigated. The pattern recognition systems were trained to map the temporal fluctuations in the multiphase mixture density with the individual phase flow rates using statistical features extracted from the gamma counts signals as their inputs. Initial results yielded individual phase flow rate predictions to within ±5% relative error for the two phase airwater flows and ±10% for three phase air-oil-water flows data.

Lessons Learned In Developing The VACIS Products

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Orphan, Victor J.

2011-01-01

SAIC's development of VACIS provides useful 'lessons learned' in bridging the gap from an idea to a security or contraband detection product. From a gamma densitometer idea for solving a specific Customs Service (CS) requirement (detection of drugs in near-empty tanker trucks) in mid-1990's, SAIC developed a broad line of vehicle and cargo inspections systems (over 500 systems deployed to date) based on a gamma-ray radiographic imaging technique. This paper analyzes the reasons for the successful development of VACIS and attempts to identify ''lessons learned'' useful for future security and contraband detection product developments.

How to simplify the analytics for input-output accountability measurements in a reprocessing plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ottmar, H.; Eberle, H.; Matussek, P.; Michel-Piper, I.

1986-02-01

An analytical approach to high-performance uranium and plutonium accountancy measurements in reprocessing input and output solutions is presented, which provides larger operational simplicity than the conventionally applied chemical methods. The proposed alternative is based on energy-dispersive absorption edge and fluorescence X-ray spectrometry, using the proven and reliable K-edge densitometry technique as reference method. Two X-ray densitometers developed for accurate and reliable uranium and plutonium analysis in both the feed and product solutions are described. Practical experiences and results from their performance evaluation on actual process solutions from a reprocessing plant are presented and discussed. (orig.) [de

Scanners for analytic print measurement: the devil in the details

Science.gov (United States)

Zeise, Eric K.; Williams, Don; Burns, Peter D.; Kress, William C.

2007-01-01

Inexpensive and easy-to-use linear and area-array scanners have frequently substituted as colorimeters and densitometers for low-frequency (i.e., large area) hard copy image measurement. Increasingly, scanners are also being used for high spatial frequency, image microstructure measurements, which were previously reserved for high performance microdensitometers. In this paper we address characteristics of flatbed reflection scanners in the evaluation of print uniformity, geometric distortion, geometric repeatability and the influence of scanner MTF and noise on analytic measurements. Suggestions are made for the specification and evaluation of scanners to be used in print image quality standards that are being developed.

Colour dosemeters for high level radiation dosimetry

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Schönbacher, H.; Coninckx, F.; Miller, A.

1990-01-01

interpretation or a dose measurement with a simple instrument such as a portable reflecting densitometer in the range of 10(3) to 10(6) Gy. Two projects were investigated: (1) a thin plastic film with a self adhesive tape containing a radiochromic dye which induces a colour change when exposed to ionising...... of paint and film dosemeters were installed in the 450 GeV Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) at CERN and irradiated during operation for more than two years. Within the useful range of the dosemeters, dose comparisons with other dosemeter types gave satisfactory results. Application in other fields...

X-ray film calibration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stone, G.F.; Dittmore, C.H.; Henke, B.L.

1986-01-01

This paper discusses the use of silver halide x-ray films for imaging and spectroscopy which is limited by the range of intensities that can be recorded and densitometered. Using the manufacturers processing techniques can result in 10 2-3 range in intensity recorded over 0-5 density range. By modifying the chemistry and processing times, ranges of 10 5-6 can be recorded in the same density range. The authors report on x-ray film calibration work and dynamic range improvements. Changes to the processing chemistry and the resulting changes in dynamic range and x-ray sensitivity are discussed

Transient void fraction measurements in rod bundle geometries

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chan, A.M.C.

1998-01-01

A new gamma densitometer with a Ba-133 source and a Nal(TI) scintillator operated in the count mode has been designed for transient void fraction measurements in the RD-14M heated channels containing a seven-element heater bundle. The device was calibrated dynamically in the laboratory using an air-water flow loop. The void fraction measured was found to compare well with values obtained using the trapped-water method. The device was also found to follow very well the passage of air slugs in pulsating flow with slug passing frequencies of up to about 1.5 hz. (author)

Diagnosis of osteoporosis through two photon densitometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marone, M.M.S.; Lewin, S.; Bianco, A.C.; Correa, P.H.S.

1989-01-01

Osteoporosis is often diagnosed after fracture occurrence, when therapy is less effective. The dual photon densitometry has been the proposed method for osteoporosis early diagnosis. In the present study is presented our experience on the lumbar vertebral and femoral neck bone mass measurement by utilizing a Lunar DP-3 densitometer in normal young 82 volunteers and 103 women with radiologically and clinically diagnosed osteoporosis. The values found in osteoporotical patients were significantly lower when compared to those normals either in lumbar vertebrae (L2-L4) or in the femoral neck. The method's coefficient of variation was [pt

ADVANCED CUTTINGS TRANSPORT STUDY

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Stefan Miska; Nicholas Takach; Kaveh Ashenayi

2004-07-31

We have tested the loop elevation system. We raised the mast to approximately 25 to 30 degrees from horizontal. All went well. However, while lowering the mast, it moved laterally a couple of degrees. Upon visual inspection, severe spalling of the concrete on the face of the support pillar, and deformation of the steel support structure was observed. At this time, the facility is ready for testing in the horizontal position. A new air compressor has been received and set in place for the ACTS test loop. A new laboratory has been built near the ACTS test loop Roughened cups and rotors for the viscometer (RS300) were obtained. Rheologies of aqueous foams were measured using three different cup-rotor assemblies that have different surface roughness. The relationship between surface roughness and foam rheology was investigated. Re-calibration of nuclear densitometers has been finished. The re-calibration was also performed with 1% surfactant foam. A new cuttings injection system was installed at the bottom of the injection tower. It replaced the previous injection auger. A mechanistic model for cuttings transport with aerated mud has been developed. Cuttings transport mechanisms with aerated water at various conditions were experimentally investigated. A total of 39 tests were performed. Comparisons between the model predictions and experimental measurements show a satisfactory agreement. Results from the ultrasonic monitoring system indicated that we could distinguish between different sand levels. We also have devised ways to achieve consistency of performance by securing the sensors in the caps in exactly the same manner as long as the sensors are not removed from the caps. A preliminary test was conducted on the main flow loop at 100 gpm flow rate and 20 lb/min cuttings injection rate. The measured bed thickness using the ultrasonic method showed a satisfactory agreement with nuclear densitometer readings. Thirty different data points were collected after the test

Osteoporosis in patients with low back pain - a study with DEXA bone densitometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hussain, R.; Momtaz, S.; Khan, ASM H.; Jehan, A.H.

2001-01-01

Osteoporosis has frequently been called the 'silent epidemic' because most patients do not present until they fracture or alternatively in some cases of spinal disease develop back pain, significant loss of height, or a kyphosis. In a longitudinal study of one year period a total of 96 patients were evaluated for bone densitometric measurements. Among them 48 patients (40 F, 8 M) complained of persistent low back pain. The age group was 35-80 years (Mean 59 years). They were referred for their first Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) studies. None of the patients received estrogen, biphosphonates or steroid therapy. Bone density of the hip and lumbar spine were measured. The T- score, which measures the difference between patient's BMD and young normal was computed and Z-score, were calculated. X-ray correlation was also done in most of the cases. Out of 48 patients, 18 (39.6%) showed osteoporosis, 16 (33.3%) showed osteopenia and 12 (25%) were normal. In the osteoporosis group, 14 were female and 4 were male. All were above 50 years of age except a 35 -year old man with Cushing's disease. This study demonstrates the importance of DEXA studies in diagnosing osteoporosis in patients suffering from low back pain. (author) 19 refs

Radiologic observation of the course of renal osteopathy during therapy with Rocaltrol

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Roesli, A.

The radiologic observation of the course of renal osteopathy during therapy with Rocaltrol. By means of a densitometer, the traveculae located in the spongiosa at the base of the proximal phalanxes 2-5 of both hands were counted in 13 patients suffering from renal osteopathy before and after a 3/4-year treatment with Rocaltrol. The number of trabeculae was shown to decrease by 0,8%. Although no comparable values are available in the relevant literature, the drop in number of total trabeculae from 3,505 to 3,476 (-29) is considerably small. However, considering the irreversible progression of renal osteopathy, this decline nevertheless points to the reparative potency of Rocaltrol.

Express immunochromatographic detection of antibodies against Brucella abortus in cattle sera based on quantitative photometric registration and modulated cut-off level.

Science.gov (United States)

Sotnikov, Dmitriy V; Byzova, Nadezhda A; Zherdev, Anatoly V; Eskendirova, Saule Z; Baltin, Kairat K; Mukanov, Kasim K; Ramankulov, Erlan M; Sadykhov, Elchin G; Dzantiev, Boris B

2015-01-01

An immunochromatographic test system was developed for rapid detection of the levels of specific IgG antibodies to Brucella abortus lipopolysaccharide, as a tool for diagnosis of brucellosis in cattle. The pilot test strips were examined using blood sera from sick (78 samples) and healthy (35 samples) cows. The results obtained by immunochromatographic assay, using a portable optical densitometer for digital video detection, correlate well with the results obtained by immunoenzyme assay and are in agreement with the results of the disease diagnosis. The new test system allows detection of antibodies within 10 min and can be proposed as an alternative to the methods available for serodiagnosis of brucellosis.

Derivation of standardised BMD using the European Spine Phantom

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McCloskey, E.V.

2000-01-01

The primary aim of this study is to compare peak bone mass in a range of populations and to examine the determinants of any differences which may be observed. Bone mineral density (areal BMD) has been measured by densitometers manufactured by two companies, Hologic (Waltham, USA) and Lunar (Madison, USA). Systematic differences exist between tile manufacturers in several stages of the scanning procedure (e.g. edge-detection, calibration) so that the normal ranges produced are specific to each brand. To allow comparison of BMD between manufacturers (and thus between centres) we have therefore undertaken a cross-calibration of the scanners in order to derive a standardised BMD

Comparison of instruments for dual-energy X-ray bone mineral densitometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vainio, P.; Koski, E.; Ahonen, E.; Leinonen, K.; Sievaenen, H.

1992-01-01

While bone mineral densitometry has become a common laboratory test, it is important to pay attention to the compatability of the results from different instruments. In this study results from three commercially available bone densitometers are compared using both patient and phantom studies. Overall correlation between instruments was good but there were systematic discrepancies in the results. The three instruments provided bone mineral density (BMD) values that differed by as much as 13.5% due to differences as large as 6% in bone mineral content and as large as 7% in bone area. Thus, the BMD values obtained from different manufacturers' instruments are not directly comparable. (author)

Thermodynamics of aqueous methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) and methyldiethanolammonium chloride (MDEAH+Cl-) over a wide range of temperature and pressure: Apparent molar volumes, heat capacities, and isothermal compressibilities

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hawrylak, B.; Palepu, R.; Tremaine, Peter R.

2006-01-01

Apparent molar volumes of aqueous methyldiethanolamine and its salt were determined with platinum vibrating tube densitometers over a range of temperatures from 283K= o , heat capacities C p o , and isothermal compressibilities κ T o . The standard partial molar volumes V o for the neutral amine and its salt show increasingly positive and negative values, respectively, at high temperatures and pressures, as predicted by corresponding states and group additivity arguments. The density model and the revised Helgeson-Kirkham-Flowers (HKF) model have been used to represent the temperature and pressure dependence of the standard partial molar properties to yield a full thermodynamic description of the system

Determination of beam characteristic parameters for a linear accelerator

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lima, D.A. de.

1978-01-01

A mechanism to determine electron beam characteristic parameters of a linear accelerator was constructed. The mechanism consists in an electro-calorimeter and an accurate optical densitometer. The following parameters: mean power, mean current, mean energy/particle, pulse Width, pulse amplitude dispersion, and pulse frequency, operating the 2 MeV linear accelerator of CBPF (Brazilian Center pf Physics Researches). The optical isodensity curves of irradiated glass lamellae were obtained, providing information about focus degradation penetration direction in material and the reach of particle. The point to point dose distribution in the material from optical density curves were obtained, using a semi empirical and approached model. (M.C.K.) [pt

ISO 3171 production hydrocarbons allocation sampling for challenging ''tie-ins''with pressures close to RVP breakout

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jiskoot, Mark

2005-07-01

There are an increasing number of applications where sampling is required for crude oils and condensates at close to vapour breakout in production environments. These are typified where the quality measurement must be extracted/made in the ''oil'' leg of a separator. The exertion of back pressure (pressure loss) on the liquid leg to expand the operating envelope is generally not acceptable due to the effect that this will have on the separator efficiency and this frequently precludes the use of normal metering technologies. These conditions represent some of the hardest for quality determination. In conventional separators, velocities are low to promote separation of the gas and liquids and the therefore the gas pressure within the liquid phase is close to breakout. Frequently there is an envelope of less than 0.5 bar below the operating pressure at which the fluid will start to cavitate. Concurrent with the low velocity is the expectation of some free water that would require mixing to ensure representativity. There are frequently also severe restrictions on space and the piping arrangement in which to achieve a representative off-take. The ''rules'' that are applied to representative sampling are equally applicable to the use of water monitors (water cut, OWD) and to densitometers. An integrated quality measurement system that prevents any impact on the process and also provides the required mixing to allow extraction of a representative off take that can be used for physical samplers as well as process instrumentation such as densitometers, viscometers and water cut monitors can be achieved by careful design. Jiskoot has adapted its CoJetix technology to meet these goals. (author) (tk)

The radiologic observation of the course of renal osteopathy during therapy with Rocaltrol

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roesli, A.

1981-01-01

The radiologic observation of the course of renal osteopathy during therapy with Rocaltrol. By means of a densitometer, the traveculae located in the spongiosa at the base of the proximal phalanxes 2-5 of both hands were counted in 13 patients suffering from renal osteopathy before and after a 3/4-year treatment with Rocaltrol. The number of trabeculae was shown to decrease by 0,8%. Although no comparable values are available in the relevant literature, the drop in number of total trabeculae from 3,505 to 3,476 (-29) is considerably small. However, considering the irreversible progression of renal osteopathy, this decline nevertheless points to the reparative potency of Rocaltrol. (orig.) [de

Prevalence of low bone health using quantitative ultrasound in Indian women aged 41-60 years: Its association with nutrition and other related risk factors.

Science.gov (United States)

Shenoy, Shweta; Chawla, Jasmine Kaur; Gupta, Swati; Sandhu, Jaspal Singh

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to find the prevalence of low bone health conditions and assess associated nutritional and other risk factors in Indian women aged 41-60 years. A total of 1,911 women participated in this cross-sectional study. Bone health was assessed using an Omnisense multisite quantitative ultrasound bone densitometer on two sites (radius and tibia). Crude prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis was found to be 30.09% and 19.89%, respectively. The Indian women were deficient in a majority of nutrients. Postmenopause, hysterectomy, hyperthyroid, hypothyroid, hypertension, low physical activity, low sun exposure, high stress levels, and low calcium levels were found to be independent risk factors of low bone health.

Development of gamma exposure chart (Selenium-75) for Industrial Radiography Application

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sapizah Rahim; Shaharudin Sayuti; Noorhazleena Azaman

2011-01-01

Radiographic exposure can be determined by either trial exposure, reference to previous data or using exposure chart. Without previous data, exposure chart is the easiest and economic way to achieve correct exposure. It will minimize re-shoot and time. This paper presents the development of gamma exposure chart for Selenium-75 source. Film radiography method has been chosen for this development using steel step wedge blocks. Agfa Structurix D7 films have been used during the exposure and the optical density of the films was measured by using X-Rite densitometer. Method of development of the chart is explained. The chart is tested on pipe and welded plate test sample and the results are discussed. (author)

Infrared technique for measuring steam density

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Snyder, S.C.; Baker, A.G.

1982-01-01

A prototype infrared steam densitometer using a two-wavelength, dual-beam technique was developed. Tests were performed on dry steam flows with this technique, which uses two narrow bandwidths of infrared light in the region of 0.9 to 3.0 μm. One wavelength is absorbed by steam, while the other is not. The latter wavelength is used to account for nonabsorptive light losses. In addition to the beam that traverses the steam flow, a reference beam that does not traverse the flow allows the light source to be monitored. The theory of the device is presented, along with a description of the components and of the system's operation. Test results are also presented

Quality assurance through constancy control for X-ray film processors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Weberling, R.

1982-01-01

A control method to check the reproduction of X-ray film processors and necessary instruments is presented. The application of a light sensitometer allows the production of test films daily, independent of X-ray exposures, X-ray film cassettes and X-ray intensifying screens. The optical densities on the test films will be read by means of a densitometer and the results are plotted on a special control chart. A limitation through optical densities of +-0,15 for Speed Index and +-0,20 for Contrast Index determines the tolerance variation for X-ray film processors. Targets of this control method are uniform image quality, dose reduction and saving of cost. (orig.) [de

Development of a simplified densitometer for the determination of aflatoxins by thin-layer chromatography.

Science.gov (United States)

Stroka, J; Anklam, E

2000-12-29

A simple, miniaturised and low power consuming (battery, fully semiconductor based) detector cell (SeBaDeC) was developed for the densitometric measurement of aflatoxins on TLC plates. A UV-light emitting diode (UV-LED) with a peak emission wavelength of 370 nm was used for fluorescence excitation, while a photo diode with a peak sensitivity of 440 nm in combination with a 418 nm cut-off filter was applied for detecting the fluorescence intensity. The resulting signal was further amplified by means of a commonly used operational amplifier integrated circuit (OA) and directly converted into a digital signal with a simple analogue-digital-converter (ADC). This signal was recorded at the serial (RS232) port of a portable PC and processed with a spreadsheet program. The software used for data recording is freeware and available in its source code, and the long lifetime of the UV-LED (up to 10 000 h) permits a maintenance free application of this device. This simplified device has shown to be able to detect concentrations of aflatoxins of 1 ng, thus offering a cheap and sensitive alternative to currently available TCL scanners.

Computer-supported quality control in X-ray diagnosis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maier, W.; Klotz, E.

1989-01-01

Quality control of X-ray facilities in radiological departments of large hospitals is possible only if the instrumentation used for measurements is interfaced to a computer. The central computer helps to organize the measurements as well as analyse and record the results. It can also be connected to a densitometer and camera for evaluating radiographs of test devices. Other quality control tests are supported by a mobile station with equipment for non-invasive dosimetry measurements. Experience with a computer-supported system in quality control of film and film processing is described and the evaluation methods of ANSI and the German industrial standard DIN are compared. The disadvantage of these methods is the exclusion of film quality parameters, which can make processing control almost worthless. (author)

PC-based process distribution to solve iterative Monte Carlo simulations in physical dosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Leal, A.; Sanchez-Doblado, F.; Perucha, M.; Rincon, M.; Carrasco, E.; Bernal, C.

2001-01-01

A distribution model to simulate physical dosimetry measurements with Monte Carlo (MC) techniques has been developed. This approach is indicated to solve the simulations where there are continuous changes of measurement conditions (and hence of the input parameters) such as a TPR curve or the estimation of the resolution limit of an optimal densitometer in the case of small field profiles. As a comparison, a high resolution scan for narrow beams with no iterative process is presented. The model has been installed on a network PCs without any resident software. The only requirement for these PCs has been a small and temporal Linux partition in the hard disks and to be connecting by the net with our server PC. (orig.)

The use of curium neutrons to verify plutonium in spent fuel and reprocessing wastes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Miura, N.

1994-05-01

For safeguards verification of spent fuel, leached hulls, and reprocessing wastes, it is necessary to determine the plutonium content in these items. We have evaluated the use of passive neutron multiplicity counting to determine the plutonium content directly and also to measure the 240 Pu/ 244 Cm ratio for the indirect verification of the plutonium. Neutron multiplicity counting of the singles, doubles, and triples neutrons has been evaluated for measuring 240 Pu, 244 Cm, and 252 Cf. We have proposed a method to establish the plutonium to curium ratio using the hybrid k-edge densitometer x-ray fluorescence instrument plus a neutron coincidence counter for the reprocessing dissolver solution. This report presents the concepts, experimental results, and error estimates for typical spent fuel applications

Dosimetry and bone densitometry. Comparison between lunar 1Q and Hologic 4500A

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Philippon, B.; Duboeuf, F.; Itti, R.

2002-01-01

Patient dosimetry related to two bone densitometer units from different manufacturers (LUNAR IQ and HOLOGIC 4500A) were evaluated using the parallel beam technique and thermoluminescence from Ca (SO4)/Dy. The radiation dose measured for a phantom of 18 cm in thickness was 0,11 mGy (+/- 0,004) at a maximum current of 3 mA for the LUNAR IQ unit in the high-resolution mode. The radiation dose is 0,28 mGy (+/- 0,011) for the HOLOGIC 4500A unit used at 2,5 mA in the high resolution-mode. These results obtained by thermoluminescence of the Ca (SO4)/Dy are in favor of the LUNAR IQ unit. However, dosimetry must be weighted against image quality. (author)

Full-field optical thickness profilometry of semitransparent thin films with transmission densitometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Johnson, Jay; Harris, Tequila

2010-01-01

A novel bidirectional thickness profilometer based on transmission densitometry was designed to measure the localized thickness of semitransparent films on a dynamic manufacturing line. The densitometer model shows that, for materials with extinction coefficients between 0.3 and 2.9 D/mm, 100-500 μm measurements can be recorded with less than ±5% error at more than 10,000 locations in real time. As a demonstration application, the thickness profiles of 75 mmx100 mm regions of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) were determined by converting the optical density of the sample to thickness with the Beer-Lambert law. The PEM extinction coefficient was determined to be 1.4 D/mm, with an average thickness error of 4.7%.

Application of reconstructive tomography to the measurement of density distribution in two-phase flow

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fincke, J.R.; Berggren, M.J.; Johnson, S.A.

1980-01-01

The technique of reconstructive tomography has been applied to the measurement of average density and density distribution in multiphase flows. The technique of reconstructive tomography provides a model independent method of obtaining flow field density information. The unique features of interest in application of a practical tomographic densitometer system are the limited number of data values and the correspondingly coarse reconstruction grid (0.5 by 0.5 cm). These features were studied both experimentally, through the use of prototype hardware on a 3-in. pipe, and analytically, through computer generation of simulated data. Prototypical data were taken on phantoms constructed of Plexiglas and laminated Plexiglas, wood, and polyurethane foam. Reconstructions obtained from prototype data were compared with reconstructions from the simulated data

Comparison of dual photon and dual energy X-ray bone densitometers in a clinic setting

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nelson, D.A.; Shaffer, S.; Brown, E.B.; Flynn, M.J.; Cody, D.D.

1991-01-01

Two separate studies were conducted. We evaluated the relationships between results of lumbar spine measurements using two dual photon absorptiometry (DPA1 and DPA2) instruments and one dual energy X-ray (DXA) instrument with the same subject (49 volunteers), and also in 65 patients who were measured on the DPA1 and DXA machines. Second, we measured the lumbar spine and the proximal femur in three groups of 12 female volunteers three times on one instrument within 1 week. We purposely simulated a busy clinic setting with different technologists, older radioactive sources, and a heterogeneous patient group. The comparison study indicated a significant difference between the mean bone density values reported by the machines, but the results were highly correlated (R 2 = 0.89-0.96). This study emphasizes the differences between instruments, the potential for greater error in busy clinic environments, and the apparent superiority of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry under these less than ideal conditions. (orig./GDG)

Operating software for plutonium measurements in the KfK K-edge densitometer. A user's guide

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eberle, H.

1983-09-01

A set of computer programs has been developed for the execution of plutonium concentration measurements in the KfK K-edge photon absorptiometer for performance evaluation. The programs are implemented on a ND-6620 data acquisition and processing system. A short description of the programs and commands for data accumulation and analysis is given. Nevertheless, the user should be familiar with the ND-6620 data acquisition and processing system, its system software, and with the FORTRAN programming language. (orig./HP)

New radiochroic film densitometry system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tran, T.; Freeman, N.; Johnston, P.

2004-01-01

densitometer system provides a practical radiochromic film densitometer. Copyright (2004) Australasian College of Physical Scientists and Engineers in Medicine

Important considerations for radiochromic film dosimetry with flatbed CCD scanners and EBT GAFCHROMIC[reg] film

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lynch, Bart D.; Kozelka, Jakub; Ranade, Manisha K.; Li, Jonathan G.; Simon, William E.; Dempsey, James F.

2006-01-01

In this study, we present three significant artifacts that have the potential to negatively impact the accuracy and precision of film dosimetry measurements made using GAFCHROMIC[reg] EBT radiochromic film when read out with CCD flatbed scanners. Films were scanned using three commonly employed instruments: a Macbeth TD932 spot densitometer, an Epson Expression 1680 CCD array scanner, and a Microtek ScanMaker i900 CCD array scanner. For the two scanners we assessed the variation in optical density (OD) of GAFCHROMIC EBT film with scanning bed position, angular rotation of the film with respect to the scan line direction, and temperature inside the scanner due to repeated scanning. Scanning uniform radiochromic films demonstrated a distinct bowing effect in profiles in the direction of the CCD array with a nonuniformity of up to 17%. Profiles along a direction orthogonal to the CCD array demonstrated a 7% variation. A strong angular dependence was found in measurements made with the flatbed scanners; the effect could not be reproduced with the spot densitometer. An IMRT quality assurance film was scanned twice rotating the film 90 deg. between the scans. For films scanned on the Epson scanner, up to 12% variation was observed in unirradiated EBT films rotated between 0 deg. and 90 deg. , which decreased to approximately 8% for EBT films irradiated to 300 cGy. Variations of up to 80% were observed for films scanned with the Microtek scanner. The scanners were found to significantly increase the film temperature with repeated scanning. Film temperature between 18 and 33 deg. C caused OD changes of approximately 7%. Considering these effects, we recommend adherence to a strict scanning protocol that includes: maintaining the orientation of films scanned on flatbed scanners, limiting scanning to the central portion of the scanner bed, and limiting the number of consecutive scans to minimize changes in OD caused by film heating

Application of specific gravity method for normalization of urinary excretion rates of radionuclides

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Thakur, Smita S.; Yadav, J.R.; Rao, D.D.

2015-01-01

In vitro bioassay monitoring is based on the determination of activity concentration in biological samples excreted from the body and is most suitable for alpha and beta emitters. For occupational workers handling actinides in reprocessing facilities possibility of internal exposure exists and urine assay is preferred method for monitoring such exposure. Urine samples collected for 24 h duration, is the true representative of bioassay sample and hence in the case of insufficient collection time, specific gravity applied method of normalization of urine sample is used. The present study reports the data of specific gravity generated for controlled group of Indian population by the use of densitometer and its application in urinary sample activity normalization. The average specific gravity value obtained for the controlled group was 1.008±0.005 gm/ml. (author)

Thermal and Electrical Characterization of Alumina Substrate for Microelectronic Applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ahmad, S.; Ibrahim, A.; Alias, R.; Shapee, S. M.; Ambak, Z.; Zakaria, S. Z.; Yahya, M. R.; Mat, A. F. A.

2010-01-01

This paper reports the effect of sintering temperature on thermal and electrical properties of alumina material as substrate for microelectronic devices. Alumina materials in the form of green sheet with 1 mm thickness were sintered at 1100 deg. C, 1300 deg. C and 1500 deg. C for about 20 hours using heating and cooling rates of 2 deg. C/min. The densities were measured using densitometer and the microstructures of the samples were analyzed using SEM micrographs. Meanwhile thermal and electrical properties of the samples were measured using flash method and impedance analyzer respectively. It was found that thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the substrate increases as sintering temperature increases. It was found also that the dielectric constant of alumina substrate increases as the sintering temperature increases.

Thermal and Electrical Characterization of Alumina Substrate for Microelectronic Applications

Science.gov (United States)

Ahmad, S.; Ibrahim, A.; Alias, R.; Shapee, S. M.; Ambak, Z.; Zakaria, S. Z.; Yahya, M. R.; Mat, A. F. A.

2010-03-01

This paper reports the effect of sintering temperature on thermal and electrical properties of alumina material as substrate for microelectronic devices. Alumina materials in the form of green sheet with 1 mm thickness were sintered at 1100° C, 1300° C and 1500° C for about 20 hours using heating and cooling rates of 2° C/min. The densities were measured using densitometer and the microstructures of the samples were analyzed using SEM micrographs. Meanwhile thermal and electrical properties of the samples were measured using flash method and impedance analyzer respectively. It was found that thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the substrate increases as sintering temperature increases. It was found also that the dielectric constant of alumina substrate increases as the sintering temperature increases.

Real-time graphic display system for ROSA-V Large Scale Test Facility

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kondo, Masaya; Anoda, Yoshinari; Osaki, Hideki; Kukita, Yutaka; Takigawa, Yoshio.

1993-11-01

A real-time graphic display system was developed for the ROSA-V Large Scale Test Facility (LSTF) experiments simulating accident management measures for prevention of severe core damage in pressurized water reactors (PWRs). The system works on an IBM workstation (Power Station RS/6000 model 560) and accommodates 512 channels out of about 2500 total measurements in the LSTF. It has three major functions: (a) displaying the coolant inventory distribution in the facility primary and secondary systems; (b) displaying the measured quantities at desired locations in the facility; and (c) displaying the time histories of measured quantities. The coolant inventory distribution is derived from differential pressure measurements along vertical sections and gamma-ray densitometer measurements for horizontal legs. The color display indicates liquid subcooling calculated from pressure and temperature at individual locations. (author)

Development of phytoxpro TLC videodensitometer for phytochemical screening

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abd Jalil Abd Hamid; Shafii Khamis

2004-01-01

A simple low-cost PhytoXPro TLC Video densitometer was developed to facilitate phytochemical screening in medicinal plants. It was based on a digital video camera system interface to a PC Image capturing of TLC chromatograin through the USB digital video camera is performed according to the selected resolution. Region of interest (ROI) of TLC chromatogram image are selected and transformed to color histogram, based on the HSI color space components. The possibility of phytochemical fingerprint identification from the created color histogram was examined The performance characteristics of the system provide sufficient sensitivity for use in semi quantitative analysis. This type of low-cost system can be installed on conventional PCs with easy to use, and quick documentation system for screening of phytochemical constituents in medicinal plants. (Author)

Calibration Laboratory for Medical Physics towards ISO/ IEC 17025 accreditation: Experience and challenges

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Asmaliza Hashim; Abdul Aziz Ramli; Muhammad Jamal Isa; Sharul Azlan Azizan

2011-01-01

Medical Physics Calibration Laboratory is laboratory where placed under Medical Physics Group, Radiation Healthy and Safety Division. This laboratory offers calibration services to their customers that covered doses calibration, tube voltan (kVp), exposure doses, sensitometer and densitometer. After 12 years of operation, it is the right time for this laboratory to upgrade their quality services based on ISO/ IEC 17025. Accreditation scope covered calibration for diagnostic doses only. Starting from 2009, serious effort was done to prepare the quality documents that covered quality manual, quality procedure and work orders. Meanwhile, several series of audit were done by Quality Management Center (QMC), now Innovation Management Center (IMC) with collaboration with Standard Department. This paper works revealed challenges and experience during the process toward ISO/ IEC 17025 accreditation. (author)

Transient analysis of DTT rakes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kamath, P.S.; Lahey, R.T. Jr.

1981-01-01

This paper presents an analytical model for the determination of the cross-sectionally averaged transient mass flux of a two-phase fluid flowing in a conduit instrumented by a Drag-Disk Turbine Transducer (DTT) Rake and a multibeam gamma densitometer. Parametric studies indicate that for a typical blowdown transient, dynamic effects such as rotor inertia can be important for the turbine-meter. In contrast, for the drag-disk, a frequency response analysis showed that the quasisteady solution is valid below a forcing frequency of about 10 Hz, which is faster than the time scale normally encountered during blowdowns. The model showed reasonably good agreement with full scale transient rake data, where the flow regimes were mostly homogeneous or stratified, thus indicating that the model is suitable for the analysis of a DTT rake. (orig.)

Gamma ray NDA assay system for total plutonium and isotopics in plutonium product solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cowder, L.R.; Hsue, S.T.; Johnson, S.S.; Parker, J.L.; Russo, P.A.; Sprinkle, J.K.; Asakura, Y.; Fukuda, T.; Kondo, I.

1979-01-01

A LASL-designed gamma-ray NDA instrument for assay of total plutonium and isotopics of product solutions at Tokai-Mura is currently installed and operating. The instrument is, optimally, a densitometer that uses radioisotopic sources for total plutonium measurements at the K absorption edge. The measured transmissions of additional gamma-ray lines from the same radioisotopic sources are used to correct for self-attenuation of passive gamma rays from plutonium. The corrected passive data give the plutonium isotopic content of freshly separated to moderately aged solutions. This off-line instrument is fully automated under computer control, with the exception of sample positioning, and operates routinely in a mode designed for measurement control. A one-half percent precision in total plutonium concentration is achieved with a 15-minute measurement

Dual modality densitometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tjugum, Stein-Arild

2003-01-01

Different measurement principles and design issues for gamma-ray densitometry for pipe flow are investigated. The dual modality densitometry (DMD) principle for salinity measurement and flow regime identification by multibeam densitometry are tested and verified. The measurement principles are implemented in a compact instrument design with low energy source and compact detectors. The DMD principle is experimentally verified for 3 inch and 2 inch pipes. These measurements are done on homogenous brine/gas mixtures. Both salinity independent GVF measurements and salinity measurements are obtained. The standard deviation of the salinity measurements are about 2 percent. This measurement inaccuracy is mainly caused by inhomogeneity in the liquid/gas distribution, and measurements are thus sensitive to changes in the flow regime. Models for the generation of scattered radiation are developed, and these have been used in the data-analysis and for producing special sensitivity maps for the generation of scattered radiation. The models are a useful tool for further development of the DMD principle. The work on multibeam gamma-ray densitometry has shown that flow regimes can be identified with as few as two detectors. This is verified in the flow-loop tests. Unambiguous flow regime identification will often require that the multibeam measurements are combined with other flow measurements. With a higher number of detectors more detailed information is found, and from the 9-beam measurements with the University of Bergen (UoB) gamma-ray tomography different flow regimes could clearly be identified from time series plots of the data. A laboratory prototype compact gamma-ray densitometer, the MiniGamma, has been built up and tested. Both the DMD measurement principle and the multibeam arrangement for flow regime identification are implemented in the instrument, and are successfully tested. The detector-types tested are CdZnTe semiconductor detectors, a miniature scintillation

Bubble behaviour and mean diameter in subcooled flow boiling

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zeitoun, O.; Shoukri, M. [McMaster Univ., Hamilton, Ontario (Canada)

1995-09-01

Bubble behaviour and mean bubble diameter in subcooled upward flow boiling in a vertical annular channel were investigated under low pressure and mass flux conditions. A high speed video system was used to visualize the subcooled flow boiling phenomenon. The high speed photographic results indicated that, contrary to the common understanding, bubbles tend to detach from the heating surface upstream of the net vapour generation point. Digital image processing technique was used to measure the mean bubble diameter along the subcooled flow boiling region. Data on the axial area-averaged void fraction distributions were also obtained using a single beam gamma densitometer. Effects of the liquid subcooling, applied heat flux and mass flux on the mean bubble size were investigated. A correlation for the mean bubble diameter as a function of the local subcooling, heat flux and mass flux was obtained.

Quantitative densitometry of neurotransmitter receptors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rainbow, T.C.; Bleisch, W.V.; Biegon, A.; McEwen, B.S.

1982-01-01

An autoradiographic procedure is described that allows the quantitative measurement of neurotransmitter receptors by optical density readings. Frozen brain sections are labeled in vitro with [ 3 H]ligands under conditions that maximize specific binding to neurotransmitter receptors. The labeled sections are then placed against the 3 H-sensitive LKB Ultrofilm to produce the autoradiograms. These autoradiograms resemble those produced by [ 14 C]deoxyglucose autoradiography and are suitable for quantitative analysis with a densitometer. Muscarinic cholinergic receptors in rat and zebra finch brain and 5-HT receptors in rat brain were visualized by this method. When the proper combination of ligand concentration and exposure time are used, the method provides quantitative information about the amount and affinity of neurotransmitter receptors in brain sections. This was established by comparisons of densitometric readings with parallel measurements made by scintillation counting of sections. (Auth.)

Turbine flow meter response in two-phase flows

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shim, W.J.; Dougherty, T.J.; Cheh, H.Y.

1996-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to suggest a simple method of calibrating turbine flow meters to measure the flow rates of each phase in a two-phase flow. The response of two 50.8 mm (2 inch) turbine flow meters to air-water, two-phase mixtures flowing vertically in a 57 mm I.D. (2.25 inch) polycarbonate tube has been investigated for both upflow and downflow. The flow meters were connected in series with an intervening valve to provide an adjustable pressure difference between them. Void fractions were measured by two gamma densitometers, one upstream of the flow meters and the other downstream. The output signal of the turbine flow meters was found to depend only on the actual volumetric flow rate of the gas, F G , and liquid, F L , at the location of the flow meter

(Pressure + volume + temperature) properties for binary oligomeric solutions of poly(ethylene glycol mono-4-octylphenyl ether) with 1-octanol or acetophenone at pressures up to 50 MPa

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, M.-J.; Ku, T.-J.; Lin Homu

2009-01-01

Densities were measured with a high-pressure densitometer for two binary oligomeric systems of poly(ethylene glycol mono-4-octylphenyl ether) (PEGOPE) with 1-octanol or acetophenone at temperatures from 298.15 K to 348.15 K and pressures up to 50 MPa. While the excess volumes are negative in (acetophenone + PEGOPE) over the entire composition range, those are found to change from positive to negative with increasing mole fraction of the solvent in (1-octanol + PEGOPE). The pressure-effect on the liquid densities can be represented accurately by the Tait equation. Moreover, an empirical equation with two characteristic parameters correlates well the PVT data over the entire experimental conditions for each binary system. The experimental specific volumes were also correlated with the Flory-Orwoll-Vrij (FOV) and the Schotte equations of state to within the experimental uncertainty.

Use of an optical digital reader for establishing criterion of quality control in clinical beams; Uso de un lector optico digital (scanner) para establecer criterios de control de calidad en haces clinicos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Genis S, R. [Unidad de Radioterapia, Hospital Medica Sur, S.A. Pte. de Piedra 150, Col. Toriello Guerra, 14050 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

1998-12-31

The goal of this work is to present a procedure for realizing the control of the clinical radiation fields through typical radiographic film of verification in radiotherapy and showing the results of the analysis carried out in the expositions of reference fields for photons and electrons using an optical digital reader of high resolution (600 x 1200 dpi) named scanner and a computer program for images edition. It was possible to obtain the quantification of the following parameters: alinement of the radiation beam with the luminous beam, homogeneity or levelling of the radiation field, and self symmetry with respect to the center of the luminous field. With the purpose to compare the results versus an usual method it was realized measurements of the same images with a luminous photo densitometer with 1 mm collimation window. (Author)

Tomographic reconstruction of the time-averaged density distribution in two-phase flow

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fincke, J.R.

1982-01-01

The technique of reconstructive tomography has been applied to the measurement of time-average density and density distribution in a two-phase flow field. The technique of reconstructive tomography provides a model-independent method of obtaining flow-field density information. A tomographic densitometer system for the measurement of two-phase flow has two unique problems: a limited number of data values and a correspondingly coarse reconstruction grid. These problems were studied both experimentally through the use of prototype hardware on a 3-in. pipe, and analytically through computer generation of simulated data. The prototype data were taken on phantoms constructed of all Plexiglas and Plexiglas laminated with wood and polyurethane foam. Reconstructions obtained from prototype data are compared with reconstructions from the simulated data. Also presented are some representative results in a horizontal air/water flow

Modifying a Rodenstock scanning laser ophthalmoscope for imaging densitometry.

Science.gov (United States)

Tornow, R P; Beuel, S; Zrenner, E

1997-08-01

The necessary modifications and technical requirements are described for using a commercially available scanning laser ophthalmoscope (Rodenstock Model 101 SLO) as an imaging densitometer to assess human photopigment distribution. The main requirements are a linear detector amplifier, fast shutters for the laser beams, and a trigger unit. Images must be compensated for varying laser intensity. Both rod and cone photopigments are measured with the 514-nm argon laser of the SLO. Discrimination is possible owing to the different spatial distribution. The cone pigment density peaks in the foveal center (D = 0.40) with a steep decrease with increasing eccentricity E (full width at half-maximum, 2.5 degrees ). Rod photopigment increases with increasing eccentricity (D = 0.23 for E = 11 degrees ). These values are in agreement with previous reported results obtained with scanning laser ophthalmoscopes specially designed for retinal densitometry and high stability.

Quantitative skeletal scintiscanning of the skull using sup(99m)Tc-Sn-pyrophosphate in patients with malignant tumours of the cranial cavities, the base of the skull, and the visceral cranium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Seidenz, H.R.

1982-01-01

Scintigrams and tomograms were obtained after injection of sup(99m)Tc-Sn-pyrophosphate in 18 patients with malignant tumours of the skull. The examinations were carried out in 3-month intervals over a period of 2 1/2 years. Quantitative evaluations were carried out in 19 points (frontal projection) and 13 points (lateral projection) using a densitometer. The data obtained were compared with those of healthy subjects and sinusitis patients. The advantages of reproducible figures were demonstrated in follow-up examinations. The quantitative evaluation of scintiscans gives a clear picture of tumour progression and spread. Further, inflammatory and neoplastic processes can be distinguished. The time required for the evaluation can be shortened by means of modern data processing equipment and a gamma camera, so that quantitative evaluation can be clearly said to be superior to qualitative evaluation. (orig./MG) [de

Use of an optical digital reader for establishing criterion of quality control in clinical beams

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Genis S, R.

1998-01-01

The goal of this work is to present a procedure for realizing the control of the clinical radiation fields through typical radiographic film of verification in radiotherapy and showing the results of the analysis carried out in the expositions of reference fields for photons and electrons using an optical digital reader of high resolution (600 x 1200 dpi) named scanner and a computer program for images edition. It was possible to obtain the quantification of the following parameters: alinement of the radiation beam with the luminous beam, homogeneity or levelling of the radiation field, and self symmetry with respect to the center of the luminous field. With the purpose to compare the results versus an usual method it was realized measurements of the same images with a luminous photo densitometer with 1 mm collimation window. (Author)

Measurement of mass flux in two-phase flow using combinations of Pitot tubes and gamma densitometers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hau, K.F.F.L.; Banerjee, S.

1981-01-01

New experimental data indicate that mass flux in cocurrent gas-liquid flows may be determined by the use of Pitot tubes in conjunction with a local mixture density measurement technique. The data were taken over a wide range of flow regimes in a horizontal pipe and included separated patterns such as stratified and annular flows. Local mixture densities were obtained by a computer-assisted algebraic reconstruction technique that used chordal average densities measured by traversing gamma beam attenuation. The results extend the applicability of this mass flux measurement technique well beyond the relatively homogeneous, high-pressure, steam-water flow situations originally studied by S. Banerjee and D.M. Nguyen. 13 refs

Methodology to evaluation of the density in radiographic image

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Louzada, M.J.Q.; Pela, C.A.; Belangero, W.D.; Santos-Pinto, R.

1998-01-01

This study was designed in order to optimize the optical densitometry technique in radiographic images by the setorization of the characteristic curves of the radiographic films. We used 24 radiographs of a stepped aluminium wedge that were taken without rigorous control development and manually revealed. The densitometric values of the steps images and its thickness, for each radiographic, was utilized to generate its particular mathematics expressions that represent its characteristic densitometric curves and then it were used for setorization. The densitometric values were obtained by a Macbeth TD528 densitometer. The study showed an optimization in the representation of the relationship between the optical density of the steps images of the wedge and its correspondent thickness, provided by the setorization, with mean square error around 10 -5 . This optimization will allow the use of this methodology in quantitative evaluations of bone mass, by radiographic images. (author)

The digital structural analysis of cadmium selenide crystals by a method of ion beam thinning for high resolution electron microscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kanaya, Koichi; Baba, Norio; Naka, Michiaki; Kitagawa, Yukihisa; Suzuki, Kunio

1986-01-01

A digital processing method using a scanning densitometer system for structural analysis of electron micrographs was successfully applied to a study of cadmium selenide crystals, which were prepared by an argon-ion beam thinning method. Based on Fourier techniques for structural analysis from a computer-generated diffractogram, it was demonstrated that when cadmium selenide crystals were sufficiently thin to display the higher order diffraction spots at a high resolution approaching the atomic level, they constitute an alternative hexagonal lattice of imperfect wurtzite phase from a superposition of individual harmonic images by the enhanced scattering amplitude and corrected phase. From the structural analysis data, a Fourier synthetic lattice image was reconstructed, representing the precise location and three-dimensional arrangement of each of the atoms in the unit cell. Extensively enhanced lattice defect images of dislocations and stacking faults were also derived and shown graphically. (author)

Determination of the quantity of acetyl CoA carboxylase by [14C]methyl avidin binding

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roman-Lopez, C.R.; Goodson, J.; Allred, J.B.

1987-01-01

Conditions are described under which monomeric [ 14 C]methyl avidin binds to SDS-denatured biotin enzymes and remains bound through polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The location of radioactive proteins on the dried gel was determined by fluorography and their identity was established by subunit molecular weight. The relative quantity of bound radioactive avidin, stoichiometrically equivalent to the molar quantity of biotin protein, can be determined by scanning the fluorograph with a soft laser densitometer. To determine the absolute quantity of biotin protein, the radioactive areas of the dried gel were cut out, resolubilized, and assayed for radioactivity. Since the specific radioactivity of the [ 14 C]methyl avidin was known, the quantity of avidin bound and therefore the quantity of biotin enzyme could be calculated. The method is illustrated by the analysis of purified acetyl CoA carboxylase and is applied to the analysis of biotin enzymes in isolated rat liver mitochondria

Comparative study between computed radiography and conventional radiography

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Noorhazleena Azaman; Khairul Anuar Mohd Salleh; Sapizah Rahim; Shaharudin Sayuti; Arshad Yassin; Abdul Razak Hamzah

2010-01-01

In Industrial Radiography, there are many criteria that need to be considered based on established standards to accept or reject the radiographic film. For conventional radiography, we need to consider the optical density by using the densitometer when viewing the film on the viewer. But in the computed radiography (CR) we need to evaluate and performed the analysis from the quality of the digital image through grey value. There are many factors that affected the digital image quality. One of the factors which are affected to the digital image quality in the image processing is grey value that related to the contrast resolution. In this work, we performed grey value study measurement on digital radiography systems and compared it with exposed films in conventional radiography. The test sample is a steel step wedge. We found out the contrast resolution is higher in Computed Radiography compared with Conventional Radiography. (author)

The utilization of false color aerial photography for macrophyte biomass estimation in the Oosterschelde (the Netherlands)

Science.gov (United States)

Meulstee, C.; Vanstokkom, H.

1985-01-01

The correlation between the biomass of sea grass and seaweed samples in a sidebranch of the Oosterschelde delta (Netherlands) and density ratios of this area on color infrared aerial photographs was investigated. As the Oosterschelde will become more divided from the North Sea after pier dam completion, an increase of macrophytes is expected. In an area where the weeds Ulva, Cheatomorpha, Entermorpha, Cladophora, Fucus vesuculosis, and the grasses Zostera noltii and Zostera marina are found, 53 biomass samples of a 0.054 sq m surface each were collected. The relation between covering degree and biomass was estimated. Using a transmission-densitometer adjusted to 3 to 1 mm, densities on 1:10,000 and 1:20,000 scale photographs were measured. A gage line was determined in a density-biomass diagram. The method is shown to be useful for an efficient, accurate biomass determination in the Oosterschelde.

The use of a low-cost gas-liquid flow meter to monitor severe slugging

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Andreussi, Paolo; Bonizzi, Marco; Ciandri, Paolo

2017-01-01

A very simple, low-cost gas-liquid flow meter that only employs conventional field instrumentation has been used to monitor severe slugging occurring at the exit of a vertical pipe. This meter was originally developed for conventional oil field applications [1] and is based on the readings...... method to monitor severe slugging by means of low cost instrumentation, in particular, by replacing a cumbersome instrument such as a gamma-densitometer with a differential pressure transmitter. In field operation, the multiphase orifice used in these experiments can be replaced by a calibrated control...... of a multiphase orifice and the pressure drops of the gas-liquid mixture flowing in a vertical section of the pipe. Liquid and gas flow rates have been determined by means of semi-empirical equations developed for the specific set of flow parameters (geometry, flow rates, physical properties) adopted in a series...

Experimental investigation on densification behavior and surface roughness of AlSi10Mg powders produced by selective laser melting

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Lin-zhi; Wang, Sen; Wu, Jiao-jiao

2017-11-01

Effects of laser energy density (LED) on densities and surface roughness of AlSi10Mg samples processed by selective laser melting were studied. The densification behaviors of the SLM manufactured AlSi10Mg samples at different LEDs were characterized by a solid densitometer, an industrial X-ray and CT detection system. A field emission scanning electron microscope, an automatic optical measuring system, and a surface profiler were used for measurements of surface roughness. The results show that relatively high density can be obtained with the point distance of 80-105 μm and the exposure time of 140-160 μs. The LED has an important influence on the surface morphology of the forming part, too high LED may lead to balling effect, while too low LED tends to produce defects, such as porosity and microcrack, and then affect surface roughness and porosities of the parts finally.

Interpretive Reporting of Protein Electrophoresis Data by Microcomputer

Science.gov (United States)

Talamo, Thomas S.; Losos, Frank J.; Kessler, G. Frederick

1982-01-01

A microcomputer based system for interpretive reporting of protein electrophoretic data has been developed. Data for serum, urine and cerebrospinal fluid protein electrophoreses as well as immunoelectrophoresis can be entered. Patient demographic information is entered through the keyboard followed by manual entry of total and fractionated protein levels obtained after densitometer scanning of the electrophoretic strip. The patterns are then coded, interpreted, and final reports generated. In most cases interpretation time is less than one second. Misinterpretation by computer is uncommon and can be corrected by edit functions within the system. These discrepancies between computer and pathologist interpretation are automatically stored in a data file for later review and possible program modification. Any or all previous tests on a patient may be reviewed with graphic display of the electrophoretic pattern. The system has been in use for several months and is presently well accepted by both laboratory and clinical staff. It also allows rapid storage, retrieval and analysis of protein electrophoretic datab.

Blowdown mass flow measurements during the Power Burst Facility LOC-11C test

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Broughton, J.M.; MacDonald, P.E.

1979-01-01

An interpretation and evaluation of the two-phase coolant mass flow measurements obtained during Test LOC-11C performed in the Power Burst Facility (PBF) at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) are presented. Although a density gradient existed within the pipe between 1 and 6 s, the homogeneous flow model used to calculate the coolant mass flow from the measured mixture density, momentum flux, and volumetric flow was found to be generally satisfactory. A cross-sectional average density was determined by fitting a linear density gradient through the upper and lower chordal densities obtained from a three-beam gamma densitometer and then combining the result with the middle beam density. The integrated measured coolant mass flow was subsequently found to be within 5% if the initial mass inventory of the PBF loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) system. The posttest calculations using the RELAP4/MOD6 computer code to determine coolant mass flow for Test LOC-11C also agreed well with the measured data

Prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia in advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.

Science.gov (United States)

Bhattacharyya, Parthasarathi; Paul, Rantu; Ghosh, Malabika; Dey, Ratna; Dey, Rana; Barooah, Nirjoo; Islam, Saidul; Acharya, Dipabali; Nag, Saikat; Bardhan, Sujan

2011-07-01

Reduction of bone mineral density (BMD) is a known and established phenomenon in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, there have been no data regarding osteoporosis/osteopenia in COPD patients in India. To look for the degree and frequency of osteoporosis/osteopenia in our OPD patients being diagnosed as COPD. Thirty-seven randomly selected patients with COPD were assessed for BMD with commercially available ultrasound bone densitometer (HOLOGIC SAHARA) in a pulmonary OPD. Some cofactors for reduced BMD were also noted. Out of the 37 COPD (all belonging to the GOLD III/IV category) patients studied, the BMD was found to be normal in 10 (27%) patients, while 27 (73%) patients were found to have osteopenia/osteoporosis [19 (51.35%) and 8 (21.62%) patients having osteopenia and osteoporosis, respectively]. Frequency of osteoporosis and osteopenia was found to be very high (73%) in our population of advanced COPD. The data suggest a need for further in-depth study regarding the issue.

Summary of the engineering assessment of inactive uranium mill tailings, Spook Site, Converse County, Wyoming

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1981-10-01

Ford, Bacon, Davis Utah Inc. has reevaluated the Spook site in order to revise the December 1977 engineering assessment of the problems resulting from the existence of radioactive uranium mill tailings 48 mi northeast of Casper, in Converse County, Wyoming. This engineering assessment has included the preparation of topographic maps, the performance of core drillings and radiometric measurements sufficient to determine areas and volumes of tailings and radiation exposures of individuals and nearby populations, the investigations of site hydrology and meteorology, and the evaluation and costing of alternative corrective actions. Radon gas released from the 187,000 tons of tailings at the Spook site constitutes the most significant environmental impact, although windblown tailings and external gamma radiation also are factors. The four alternative actions presented in this engineering assessment range from millsite decontamination with the addition of 3 m of stabilization cover materI), to rema densitometers for measuring cross-sectionally averaged mass velocity in steady steam-water flow are presented. The results are interpreted ntation

A new method for characterizing beta-ray ophthalmic applicator sources

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sayeg, J.A.; Gregory, R.C.

1991-01-01

A technique is described which enables one to obtain detailed dose characteristics of 90Sr beta-ray ophthalmic applicators. A radiochromic radiation detector which is a solid-state solution of hexahydroxyethyl pararosaniline cyanide in a nylon polymer (i.e., thin foil), has been used to determine the surface dose rate and dose distribution of these sources. The detectors are rugged, easily handled, have an equivalent response (optical density per unit absorbed dose) to photons and electrons, and produce high-resolution images. They have been found useful for this application due to the high surface dose rates [0.10-1.0 Gy (H2O)/s] and their low sensitivity (approximately 10(4) Gy for an optical density of 1.0). The foils have been evaluated on a He-Ne scanning laser densitometer with a resolution of 0.3 mum. Comparison with NIST (formerly NBS) extrapolation ionization chamber measurements indicates surface dose-rate agreement within 6%. Spectral dosimetric characteristics are presented and discussed

Interpretation and digestion of radiograph

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdul Nassir Ibrahim; Azali Muhammad; Ab. Razak Hamzah; Abd. Aziz Mohamed; Mohamad Pauzi Ismail

2008-01-01

Radiography digestion is final test for the radiography to make sure that radiograph produced will inspect their quality of the image before its interpreted. This level is critical level where if there is a mistake, all of the radiography work done before will be unaccepted. So as mention earlier, it can waste time, cost and more worst it can make the production must shut down. So, this step, level two radiographers or interpreter must evaluate the radiograph carefully. For this purpose, digestion room and densitometer must used. Of course all the procedure must follow the specification that mentioned in document. There are several needs must fill before we can say the radiograph is corrected or not like the location of penetrameter, number of penetrameter that showed, the degree of density of film, and usually there is no problem in this step and the radiograph can go to interpretation and evaluation step as will mentioned in next chapter.

Turbine transducer developed for adverse conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cooper, D.R.; Edson, J.L.

1982-01-01

This paper reviews the latest developments that the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) has made on a turbine transducer used in measurement of two-phase flow. It is operated in a modular configuration with a drag transducer to provide mass flow data. Current configurations allow its use in single modules or in multiples to provide flow profile information. The turbine can also provide mass flow data when used with associated instrumentation such as a densitometer. The transducer, which is the product of long investigations and test series, is subject to high vibration loading and high temperatures as well as a borated liquid environment; flow conditions range from all liquid to all steam and from ambient temperatures to over 600 0 F at pressures up to 2200 psi. Graphite bearing and carbide shaft materials were selected to provide corrosion resistance along with mechanical integrity, and resistance to wear. The new turbine design has met all operational requirements in actual use and in extended lifetime tests

Engineering assessment of inactive uranium mill tailings, Spook site, Converse County, Wyoming

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1981-10-01

Ford, Bacon and Davis Utah Inc. has reevaluated the Spook site in order to revise the December 1977 engineering assessment of the problems resulting from the existence of radioactive uranium mill tailings 48 mi northeast of Casper, in Converse County, Wyoming. This engineering assessment has included the preparation of topographic maps, the performance of core drillings and radiometric measurements sufficient to determine areas and volumes of tailings and radiation exposures of individuals and nearby populations, the investigations of site hydrology and meteorology, and the evaluation and costing of alternative corrective actions. Radon gas released from the 187,000 tons of tailings at the Spook site constitutes the most significant environmental impact, although windblown tailings and external gamma radiation also are factors. The four alternative actions presented in this engineering assessment range from millsite decontamination with the addition of 3 m of stabilization cover makes and gamma densitometers for measuring cross-sectionally averaged mass velocity in steady steam-water flow are presented. The results are interpreted ntation

Radiation technique in density and strength testing of coniferous structural timber

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dzbenski, W.; Krzosek, S.

1998-01-01

The control process of intermediate and final wood products manufacturing is more and more frequently assisted by flow detectors. In radiation devices cesium isotope 137 Cs is replaced by less harmful americium 241 Am. Americium 241 Am was used in the measuring device made in The Academy of Mining and Metallurgy in Cracow. The device was applied in Warsaw Agricultural University (SGGW) in research on Polish structural timber. Negative influence of anatomical defects (knots, compression wood, resinasis, slope of grain, decay) was estimated by gammascopy method. Botanical species (pine, spruce), position in a stem (sapwood, heartwood), anatomical direction (radial, tangential) and moisture content were taken into account. The method of determination a critical place in timber were density is the lowest value (what is an obligatory criterion of stress graded structural timber according to EN standards) was developed. The practical implementation of the method can be reached when sawmills producing structural timber (especially for export) will be more interested in using miniaturized isotope densitometers. (author)

Engineering assessment of inactive uranium mill tailings, Spook site, Converse County, Wyoming

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

1981-10-01

Ford, Bacon and Davis Utah Inc. has reevaluated the Spook site in order to revise the December 1977 engineering assessment of the problems resulting from the existence of radioactive uranium mill tailings 48 mi northeast of Casper, in Converse County, Wyoming. This engineering assessment has included the preparation of topographic maps, the performance of core drillings and radiometric measurements sufficient to determine areas and volumes of tailings and radiation exposures of individuals and nearby populations, the investigations of site hydrology and meteorology, and the evaluation and costing of alternative corrective actions. Radon gas released from the 187,000 tons of tailings at the Spook site constitutes the most significant environmental impact, although windblown tailings and external gamma radiation also are factors. The four alternative actions presented in this engineering assessment range from millsite decontamination with the addition of 3 m of stabilization cover makes and gamma densitometers for measuring cross-sectionally averaged mass velocity in steady steam-water flow are presented. The results are interpreted ntation.

Summary of the engineering assessment of inactive uranium mill tailings, Tuba City site, Tuba City, Arizona

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1981-09-01

Ford, Bacon and Davis Utah Inc. has reevaluated the Tuba City site in order to revise the March 1977 engineering assessment of the problems resulting from the existence of radioactive uranium mill tailings at Tuba City, Arizona. This engineering assessment has included the preparation of topographic maps, the performance of core drillings and radiometric measurements sufficient to determine areas and volumes of tailings and radiation exposures of individuals and nearby populations, the investigations of site hydrology and meteorology, and the evaluation and costing of alternative corrective actions. Radon gas released from the 0.8 million tons of tailings at the Tuba City site constitutes the most significant environmental impact, although windblown tailings and external gamma radiation also are factors. The four alternative actions presented in this engineering assessment range from millsite decontamination with the addition of 3 m of stabilization cover material (Option I), to rema densitometers for measuring cross-sectionally averaged mass velocity in steady steam-water flow are presented. The results are interpreted ntation

Bone strength and its determinants in peri- and postmenopausal women

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hafeez, F.; Ahmad, M.; Hasan, S.; Khurshid, R.

2011-01-01

Diminished bone strength increases the frequency of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Weight and gonadal status are important determinants of bone mass in women. This study tried to find out the bone strength and its determinants in peri- and postmenopausal age groups of women. Methods: One hundred and twenty females with age range 25 - 66 years were included in the study. According to their age and menstrual status they were divided into premenopausal (30) peri menopausal (50) and postmenopausal (40). Body Mass Index (MBI) and bone related blood parameter, serum calcium, magnesium, inorganic phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase and estradiol were estimated. Bone mineral density was taken by peripheral densitometer. Results: Blood chemical parameters were not significantly different in these groups. The p-value of serum estradiol was highly significant in peri- and postmenopausal groups. BMI was significantly high in postmenopausal as compared to pre and perimenopausal groups. Conclusion: Early menopause, low levels of oestrogen and BMI values can all affect the health of bones in elderly women. (author)

Safety basis for the 241-AN-107 mixer pump installation and caustic addition

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Van Vleet, R.J.

1994-01-01

This safety Basis was prepared to determine whether or not the proposed activities of installing a 76 HP jet mixer pump and the addition of approximately 50,000 gallons of 19 M (50:50 wt %) aqueous caustic are within the safety envelope as described by Tank Farms (chapter six of WHC-SD-WM-ISB-001, Rev. 0). The safety basis covers the components, structures and systems for the caustic addition and mixer pump installation. These include: installation of the mixer pump and monitoring equipment; operation of the mixer pump, process monitoring equipment and caustic addition; the pump stand, caustic addition skid, the electrical skid, the video camera system and the two densitometers. Also covered is the removal and decontamination of the mixer pump and process monitoring system. Authority for this safety basis is WHC-IP-0842 (Waste Tank Administration). Section 15.9, Rev. 2 (Unreviewed Safety Questions) of WHC-IP-0842 requires that an evaluation be performed for all physical modifications

Quantitative evaluation of catheter radiopacity by fiber optic scanning densitometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Solomon, D.D.; Byron, M.P.; Lipton, M.J.

1989-01-01

A rapid accurate method has been developed utilizing fiber optic scanning densitometry to quantify the radiopacity of vascular catheters. The technique provides for computerized calculation of relative catheter radiopacity and an appropriate control standard. A densitometer with a 180 degree collection angle for diffuse transmission density measurements was selected based on the diffusing nature of X-ray film (Q-factor 1.80). A benchmark catheter and 2 mil thick brass shim stock were selected as control standards for evaluation of mono-and multilumen tubing using standard X-ray conditions and an aluminum block attenuator. The authors present results from reproducibility studies which show scan-to-scan repeatability is within ±1%, and day-to-day variability is less than 5%. Application studies demonstrate a linear relationship between percent barium sulfate loading and the radiopaqueness of 16 gauge monolumen tubing. Results were also obtained from a clinical chest X-ray film showing good in-vivo/in-vitro correlation

Grey Balance Colorimetry of the Automatically Guided Printing

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Igor Zjakic

2005-12-01

Full Text Available Apart from visual control, it is possible to controll the ink on a print by means of auxilliary instruments - densitometer, colorimeter and spectral photometer.One of the problems in offset printing reproduction is the inconstancy of theink flow and ink consumption during the run printing. This problem appears because of the change of ink viscosity, the change of ink temperature, the change of fountain solution quantity in ink, the change of printing speed etc.This article shows the measurements of the chromatic values performed by spectral photometer on the control - signal strip from the very beginning of the run printing till 20000th print. Gray balance (CMY by means of CIE L*a*b* system has been investigated. Densitometric values of the solid area, the growth of the screen values and doubling-shear have been determined. The results of the spectrophotometric measurements of gray balance and the densitometric measurements of the solid tint have been analyzed.

Radiopacity and microhardness changes and effect of X-ray operating voltage in resin-based materials before and after the expiration date

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tirapelli Camila

2004-01-01

Full Text Available This study observed alteration in the radiopacity and microhardness of expired resin-based materials compared to non-expired materials and the operating characteristics of the X-ray source used. Five 2 mm-thick cured specimens were prepared for each material: composite resins (P60®, Z100®, and a compomer (Dyract AP®. Radiopacity of the specimens was evaluated comparing the density of the resin-based material to an equivalent (mm density of a 99.5% pure aluminum step wedge using a transmission densitometer. Surface microhardness measurements were carried out using a calibrated Vickers indenter on three different points of the same surface. ANOVA and Tukey tests (pre-set alpha = 0.05 revealed that expired materials showed no significant change in radiopacity. One material (Filtek P60 demonstrated lower radiopacity with lower KVp. Change in microhardness wa s statistically significant for Z100: for this material, the microhardness after expiration was significantly lower than before the expiration date.

Monitoring of multiphase flows for superconducting accelerators and others applications

Science.gov (United States)

Filippov, Yu. P.; Kakorin, I. D.; Kovrizhnykh, A. M.; Miklayev, V. M.

2017-07-01

This paper is a review on implementation of measuring systems for two-phase helium, hydrogen, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and oil-formation/salty water flows. Two types of such systems are presented. The first type is based on two-phase flow-meters combining void fraction radio-frequency (RF) sensors and narrowing devices. They can be applied for superconducting accelerators cooled with two-phase helium, refueling hydrogen system for space ships and some applications in oil production industry. The second one is based on combination of a gamma-densitometer and a narrowing device. These systems can be used to monitor large two-phase LNG and oil-formation water flows. An electronics system based on a modular industrial computer is described as well. The metrological characteristics for different flow-meters are presented and the obtained results are discussed. It is also shown that the experience gained allows separationless flow-meter for three-phase oil-gas-formation water flows to be produced.

Age dependent mineral density in the bones of inhabitants of Karelia

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

I. G. Pashkova

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Analysis of the age changes of mineral density in the lumbar vertebrae was carried out in 929 people (740 women and 189 men at the age of 20 to 87 years, living in Karelia. Bone mineral density was evaluated by dual xray absorptiometry. In the women and in the men the spine bone mineralization peak was seen at the age of 22. The peak mineral density values were 5 % lower in the men and 1.6 % in the women in comparison with the data of the densitometer base. Considerable decrease of the bone mineral density in the vertebrae in the women began at the age of 41–45 years, and in the men – at the age of 51–55 years. Demineralization of the vertebrae in 75 year old women was 20 %, in the men it was 11.1 %, and in 81–87 year old women – 25.2 %.

Proposed quality control protocol of a dual energy bone densitometer from Spanish protocol for quality control of radiology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Saez, F.; Benito, M. A.; Collado, P.; Saez, M.

2011-01-01

In this paper we propose additional testing to complete the tests by the Spanish Protocol for Quality Control of Diagnostic Radiology, taking into account the particular characteristics of these units, and including these tests in the estimation of patient dose dose assessment area. There is also the possibility to independently verify the quality control tests that are done automatically.

Spectral calibration of EBT3 and HD-V2 radiochromic film response at high dose using 20 MeV proton beams

Science.gov (United States)

Feng, Yiwei; Tiedje, Henry F.; Gagnon, Katherine; Fedosejevs, Robert

2018-04-01

Radiochromic film is used extensively in many medical, industrial, and scientific applications. In particular, the film is used in analysis of proton generation and in high intensity laser-plasma experiments where very high dose levels can be obtained. The present study reports calibration of the dose response of Gafchromic EBT3 and HD-V2 radiochromic films up to high exposure densities. A 2D scanning confocal densitometer system is employed to carry out accurate optical density measurements up to optical density 5 on the exposed films at the peak spectral absorption wavelengths. Various wavelengths from 400 to 740 nm are also scanned to extend the practical dose range of such films by measuring the response at wavelengths removed from the peak response wavelengths. Calibration curves for the optical density versus exposure dose are determined and can be used for quantitative evaluation of measured doses based on the measured optical densities. It was found that blue and UV wavelengths allowed the largest dynamic range though at some trade-off with overall accuracy.

Gaseous waste processing facility

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Konno, Masanobu; Uchiyama, Yoshio; Suzuki, Kunihiko; Kimura, Masahiro; Kawabe, Ken-ichi.

1992-01-01

Gaseous waste recombiners 'A' and 'B' are connected in series and three-way valves are disposed at the upstream and the downstream of the recombiners A and B, and bypass lines are disposed to the recombiners A and B, respectively. An opening/closing controller for the three-way valves is interlocked with a hydrogen densitometer disposed to a hydrogen injection line. Hydrogen gas and oxygen gas generated by radiolysis in the reactor are extracted from a main condenser and caused to flow into a gaseous waste processing system. Gaseous wastes are introduced together with overheated steams to the recombiner A upon injection of hydrogen. Both of the bypass lines of the recombiners A and B are closed, and recombining reaction for the increased hydrogen gas is processed by the recombiners A and B connected in series. In an operation mode not conducting hydrogen injection, it is passed through the bypass line of the recombiner A and processed by the recombiner B. With such procedures, the increase of gaseous wastes due to hydrogen injection can be coped with existent facilities. (I.N.)

Prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia in advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Parthasarathi Bhattacharyya

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Background: Reduction of bone mineral density (BMD is a known and established phenomenon in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD. However, there have been no data regarding osteoporosis/osteopenia in COPD patients in India. Aim: To look for the degree and frequency of osteoporosis/osteopenia in our OPD patients being diagnosed as COPD. Materials and Methods: Thirty-seven randomly selected patients with COPD were assessed for BMD with commercially available ultrasound bone densitometer (HOLOGIC SAHARA in a pulmonary OPD. Some cofactors for reduced BMD were also noted. Results: Out of the 37 COPD (all belonging to the GOLD III/IV category patients studied, the BMD was found to be normal in 10 (27% patients, while 27 (73% patients were found to have osteopenia/osteoporosis [19 (51.35% and 8 (21.62% patients having osteopenia and osteoporosis, respectively]. Conclusion: Frequency of osteoporosis and osteopenia was found to be very high (73% in our population of advanced COPD. The data suggest a need for further in-depth study regarding the issue.

Evaluation of the normal values of bone densitometry in brazilian women population

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alonso, G.; Martins, L.R.F.; Alonso, C.R.; Blomer, E.

1992-01-01

The bone mineral density (BMD) can vary according with color, sex, feed and knowing the miscegenation and nutritional state of the Brazilian people; it is obvious that the fixed values of Caucasian females BMD cannot be employed to the Brazilian women. We have studied 158 Brazilian women with average age of 42 ± 14 years in whom it was settled the BMD over the lumbar vertebral column (L2, L3 and L4) and the femoral neck with a gadolinium-153 source double-photon densitometer and analyzed images in a IBM/PC/AT 286 processor computer. It was determined the linear regression equation corresponding to the variation of the bone mineral density as a function of age. The results were: BMD-lumbar column = 1.405 - 0.0086 x age ± 0.013 g/cm 2 and BMD-femoral neck = 0.909 - 0.0034 x age ± 0.11 g/cm 2 preferred to the age group between 25 to 80 years old. The results analysis shows that the Brazilian women BMD is lesser than the Caucasian. (author)

Development and calibration of instruments for measurements in transient two-phase flow

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Banerjee, S.; Heidrick, T.R.

1981-01-01

For validation and development of theoretical models for transient two-phase flow, it is necessary to measure local and cross-sectionally averaged thermalhydraulic parameters. Of these parameters, void fraction and mass velocity are the most difficult to measure. In this paper, we present our recent work on various techniques for determining these quantities. The possibility of determining flow regime by using fast neutron transmission is discussed. The development of a miniaturized electrical resistivity probe for measuring local void fraction is described, together with calibrations obtained by integrating the void fraction profile and comparing the cross-sectionally averaged void fraction with direct measurements using two quick closing valves. Results on the calibration of combinations of full-flow turbine meters, Pitot tube rakes and gamma densitometers for measuring cross-sectionally averaged mass velocity in steady steam-water flow are presented. The results are interpreted with a simple model using single-phase calibration factors for the Pitot tube rakes and turbine meters. Calibration experiments were also done in transient steam-water flows and interpretation of the results with the steady state models is also discussed

Studies on osteoporosis in Chile using isotope-related techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lobo, G.

1998-01-01

The relationship found between BMD of the lumbar spine with the anthropomorphic parameters (age, sex, body size and bone area) in the normal Chilean population studied, was different from the relationship found between BMD of both hips with the same parameters. To determine peak bone mass it is necessary to increase the number of individuals studied. This is specially true for BMD of the lumbar spine. It seems important for the correct interpretation of BMD studies to determine local values for normals, specially for the analysis of BMD in the lumbar spine, which is related to body and bone size. It is necessary to normalize the data base for anthropomorphic parameters specially in epidemiological studies. Knowledge of these parameters for the normal data base used in the different densitometers is highly desirable. There are some differences between this data base and that provided by Hologic, specially for spine in both sexes. This difference could be explained by size related factors. There is a correlation between osteocalcin levels and BMD in lumbar spine and both femoral necks only in women

Array scanner as microdensitometer surrogate: a deal with the devil or . . . a great deal?

Science.gov (United States)

Williams, Donald R.

2005-01-01

Inexpensive and easy-to-use linear and area-array scanners have frequently substituted as densitometers for low-frequency (i.e., large-area) hard copy image metrology. A number of workers and standards committees1 have in fact advocated such use. Increasingly, scanners are also being tasked for high spatial frequency, image microstructure metrology (which is usually reserved for high-performance microdensitometers that use microscope optics), photomultiplier tubes (PMT), and log amps. It is hard to resist their adoption for such use, given the convenience level. The high speed, large scan areas, auto-focus, discomfiting low cost, and low operator skill requirements of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) scanners makes one question if their use for such purpose is somehow too good to be true. To confidently judge their limitations requires a comprehensive signal and noise spatial frequency performance evaluation with respect to available driver options. This paper will outline and demonstrate evaluation techniques that use existing ISO metrology standards for modulation transfer function (MTF), noise, and dynamic range with a comparison to the performance of a Photometric Data Systems (PDS) microdensitometer.

Array scanner as microdensitometer surrogate: a deal with the devil or… a great deal?

Science.gov (United States)

Williams, Donald R.

2004-10-01

Inexpensive and easy-to-use linear and area-array scanners have frequently substituted as densitometers for low-frequency (i.e., large-area) hard copy image metrology. A number of workers and standards committees1 have in fact advocated such use. Increasingly, scanners are also being tasked for high spatial frequency, image microstructure metrology (which is usually reserved for high-performance microdensitometers that use microscope optics), photomultiplier tubes (PMT), and log amps. It is hard to resist their adoption for such use, given the convenience level. The high speed, large scan areas, auto-focus, discomfiting low cost, and low operator skill requirements of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) scanners makes one question if their use for such purpose is somehow too good to be true. To confidently judge their limitations requires a comprehensive signal and noise spatial frequency performance evaluation with respect to available driver options. This paper will outline and demonstrate evaluation techniques that use existing ISO metrology standards for modulation transfer function (MTF), noise, and dynamic range with a comparison to the performance of a Photometric Data Systems (PDS) microdensitometer.

Joint test rig for testing and calibrating of different methods of two-phase mass flow measurement

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reimann, J.; Arnold, G.; Chung, M.; Hahn, H.; John, H.; Mueller, S.; Wanner, E.

1977-01-01

The start-up of the steady-state steam-water loop has been finished. The planned maximal values of the mass flow rate as function of quality and pressure are reached. The components for the steady-state air-water loop have been ordered, the loop has been built up, first function tests have been carried out. Because of the additional work of the extension for air-water flows, the blowdown test rig was delayed. Calculations for the security of the pressure vessel have begun. During the experiments the knowledge of the flow regime and the apparent density is essential. To detect flow regime, impedance probes were developed and have been tested in steam-water flows at pressures up to 150 at. The probe signals can be adjointed to flow patterns even in those cases when high speed movies could not be interpreted definitely. To measure the apparent density a multiple γ-beam densitometer is developed. The collimator block and the mounting support for the γ-source were manufactured, the shielding and cooling of the scintillator has begun. (orig./RW) [de

The variable-depth mobile gammadensitometer (GMPV)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gourdon, J.L.; Davy, M.; Bisson, D.

1991-01-01

The continuous control of the density of wearing courses has been common practice in France for nearly twenty years. The instrument used for this purpose, called PSM (Petit Sabot Mobile; the Small Mobile Shoe), consists of a diffusion nucleo-densitometer carried on a mini-tractor. The unit has had to be completely replaced since this equipment is no longer on the market. The new instrument, known as the GMPV, has the following advantages. The depth of measurement is adjustable, so that thin wearing courses can be controlled. The accuracy and reproducibility of measurements are in the neighbourhood of 1% and 0.5% respectively, for a duration of 100 seconds. Handling is easier, thanks to infra-red remote steering of the measuring carriage from the driver's seat, and to a compatible micro-PC making it possible to gather, display, edit and store 200 kilometres of density values per hour. The GMPV is designed for intensive use in strict accordance with safety standards. It is due to be put into normal service in 1991 [fr

Studies of osteoporosis in urban residents of Sao Paulo, Brazil, using isotope related techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Borelli, A.

1998-01-01

Osteoporosis is presently a major problem scientific as well as economic all over the world. For this reason this disease has been studied quite intensely involving not only researchers but also densitometer makers and medicine manufacturers. Many etiologies have been described relating factors which could interfere either in bone formation or bone reabsorption or both. As bone loss along the life is a normal event it is quite understandable that the amount of remaining bone will depend on the amount gained during bone formation. For this reason it is quite important to know the peak of bone mass and the factors that would interfere in the amount of bone formed. It is also very important to define for a certain population its peak of bone mass which would be a valuable guide for future plans of osteoporosis prevention. This project is aimed at defining the peak of bone mass in an urban population which was chosen randomly taken into account the fact that there is a great miscegenation in S.Paulo

National protocol for quality assurance in DXA-bone densitometry

Science.gov (United States)

Slavchev, A.; Avramova-Cholakova, S.; Vassileva, J.

2008-01-01

Osteoporosis becomes largely one of the most important socially significant and costly diseases. Modern techniques (DXA, US) are applied for bone densitometry. The paper presents a protocol for quality assurance especially of DXA-bone densitometers including quality control made in compliance with international standards (ISCD, IOF). The methodology has been tested in practice by measurements on site-functional assessment, entrance dose, radiation protection, calibration, in-vitro precision. It is expected to raise the quality of the diagnostic process in concert with the EU Medical Directive 97/43 particularly for population screening and sensitive groups. The protocol is an essential part of the National Program for constraining osteoporosis which has been elaborated at the Ministry of Health and at present under implementation throughout the country. It aims at reducing the risk, factors spreading, at diminishing the fracture risk the morbidity and the mortality from osteoporosis. An integral multidisciplinary approach to the problem solving is applied as well as training on three levels — doctors, patients, population, which effectively will contribute for obtaining real results in preventing osteoporosis.

Film dosimetry using a smart device camera: a feasibility study for point dose measurements

Science.gov (United States)

Aland, Trent; Jhala, Ekta; Kairn, Tanya; Trapp, Jamie

2017-10-01

In this work, a methodology for using a smartphone camera, in conjunction with a light-tight box operating in reflective transmission mode, is investigated as a proof of concept for use as a film dosimetry system. An imaging system was designed to allow the camera of a smartphone to be used as a pseudo densitometer. Ten pieces of Gafchromic EBT3 film were irradiated to doses up to 16.89 Gy and used to evaluate the effects of reproducibility and orientation, as well as the ability to create an accurate dose response curve for the smartphone based dosimetry system, using all three colour channels. Results were compared to a flatbed scanner system. Overall uncertainty was found to be best for the red channel with an uncertainty of 2.4% identified for film irradiated to 2.5 Gy and digitised using the smartphone system. This proof of concept exercise showed that although uncertainties still exceed a flatbed scanner system, the smartphone system may be useful for providing point dose measurements in situations where conventional flatbed scanners (or other dosimetry systems) are unavailable or unaffordable.

Film dosimetry using a smart device camera: a feasibility study for point dose measurements.

Science.gov (United States)

Aland, Trent; Jhala, Ekta; Kairn, Tanya; Trapp, Jamie

2017-10-03

In this work, a methodology for using a smartphone camera, in conjunction with a light-tight box operating in reflective transmission mode, is investigated as a proof of concept for use as a film dosimetry system. An imaging system was designed to allow the camera of a smartphone to be used as a pseudo densitometer. Ten pieces of Gafchromic EBT3 film were irradiated to doses up to 16.89 Gy and used to evaluate the effects of reproducibility and orientation, as well as the ability to create an accurate dose response curve for the smartphone based dosimetry system, using all three colour channels. Results were compared to a flatbed scanner system. Overall uncertainty was found to be best for the red channel with an uncertainty of 2.4% identified for film irradiated to 2.5 Gy and digitised using the smartphone system. This proof of concept exercise showed that although uncertainties still exceed a flatbed scanner system, the smartphone system may be useful for providing point dose measurements in situations where conventional flatbed scanners (or other dosimetry systems) are unavailable or unaffordable.

Engineering assessment of inactive uranium mill tailings, Tube City site, Tuba City, Arizona

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1981-09-01

Ford, Bacon and Davis Utah Inc. has reevaluated the Tuba City site in order to revise the March 1977 engineering assessment of the problems resulting from the existence of radioactive uranium mill tailings at Tuba City, Arizona. This engineering assessment has included the preparation of topographic maps, the performance of core drillings and radiometric measurements sufficient to determine areas and volumes of tailings and radiation exposures of individuals and nearby populations, the investigations of site hydrology and meteorology, and the evaluation and costing of alternative corrective actions. Radon gas released from the 0.8 million tons of tailings at the Tuba City site constitutes the most significant environmental impact, although windblown tailings and external gamma radiation also are factors. The four alternative actions presented in this engineering assessment range from millsite decontamination with the addition of 3 m of stabilization cover material (Option I), to rterial (Option I), to rema densitometers for measuring cross-sectionally averaged mass velocity in steady steam-water flow are presented. The results are interpreted ntation

A three-dimensional dose-distribution estimation system using computerized image reconstruction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nishijima, Akihiko; Kidoya, Eiji; Komuro, Hiroyuki; Tanaka, Masato; Asada, Naoki.

1990-01-01

In radiotherapy planning, three dimensional (3-D) estimation of dose distribution has been very troublesome and time-consuming. To solve this problem, a simple and fast 3-D dose distribution image using a computer and Charged Couple Device (CCD) camera was developed. A series of X-ray films inserted in the phantom using a linear accelerator unit was exposed. The degree of film density was degitized with a CCD camera and a minicomputer (VAX 11-750). After that these results were compared with the present depth dose obtained by a JARP type dosimeter, with a dose error being less than 2%. The 3-D dose distribution image could accurately depict the density changes created by aluminum and air put into the phantom. The contrast resolution of the CCD camera seemed to be superior to the convention densitometer in the low-to-intermediate contrast range. In conclusion, our method seem to be very fast and simple for obtaining 3-D dose distribution images and is very effective when compared with the conventional method. (author)

A new method of readout in radiochromic film dosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kellermann, Peer Oliver; Gornik, Erich; Ertl, Adolf

1998-01-01

Radiochromic film as a dosimetry medium offers several advantages in high-resolution radiography. A new technique of readout was developed to measure the optical density distributions of the film in purely directed light. This technique implements radiochromic film dosimetry near the film's absorption maximum by using a single-mode top-surface emitting laser diode (675.2 nm). The effective sensitivity of the film, compared with a helium-neon laser densitometer (632.8 nm), is increased approximately threefold. Good accuracy, high spatial resolution and simple assembly of the readout system is achieved. Beam profiles of the four final collimator helmets of a Leksell Gamma Knife (Elekta Inc., Sweden) were experimentally determined. Measured profiles and full-widths at half maximum are consistent with the computer generated data of the dose planning system (Kula 4.4, Elekta Inc., Sweden). The output factor of the 4 mm collimator (the smallest collimator with the steepest dose gradient), essential for the application of well defined doses, was checked. The measurements established an output factor of 826±9 that lies 9±1% lower than the adjusted one. (author)

The relationship between anthropometric parameters and bone mineral density in an Iranian referral population.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Akbar Soltani

2014-07-01

Full Text Available Osteoporosis is a common health concern in both developed and developing countries. In this study the association between anthropometric measures and osteoporosis was investigated in 3630 males and females visiting BMD clinic of Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran, a teaching hospital and referral center for osteoporosis affiliated to the Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Anthropometric measurements obtained and also Bone Mineral Density (BMD measurement was done using a Lunar DPXMD densitometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS with Chi-square and ANOVA with post-hoc tests. Results showed that the weight, BMI and age had the strongest correlation with the BMD values in the studied people. While age is negatively correlated with BMD in all the studied people, a positive association was noted between weight, height and BMI and BMD parameters (P<0.01. It was concluded that certain anthropometric parameters (BMI and weight can considerably affect one's risk of developing osteoporosis. Further research on the effect of these variables on the association of weight and BMD is needed.

Studies of osteoporosis in Russia using isotope-related techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zaichick, V.

1998-01-01

The main aim of the present study was to estimate the age dependence of mineral density for the different body regions in healthy population of the Russian European area (Moscow and surroundings). Besides, bone mineral density (BMD) was to be analyzed by two ways: both in vivo and in vitro. In vivo studies were carried out using the method of DEXA (LUNAR DPX-L Densitometer) at the Central Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics (Moscow) on volunteers randomly chosen. Autopsy material received from Forensic Department of Municipal Hospital (Obninsk) was used for in vitro NAA analysis. For August 31, 1996 bone mineral density was studied by DEXA on 94 healthy citizens of Moscow aged 15-55 (62 women and 32 men). Bone mineral density of femoral neck (right and left), spine (front view, L 2 -L 4 ) and total body was measured in each studied person. All the examined people were also put questions by a doctor to fill in the appropriate questionnaire (an adapted version of WHO osteoporosis project questionnaire, case control study, July 15, 1993)

A comparison of density of Insight and Ektaspeed plus dental x-ray films using automatic and manual processing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoon, Suk Ja

2001-01-01

To compare the film density of Insight dental X-ray film (Eastman Kodak Co., Rochester, NY, USA) with that of Ektaspeed Plus film (Eastman Kodak) under manual and automatic processing conditions. Insight and wedge on the film under the three different exposure times. The exposed films were processed by both manual and automatic ways. The Base plus fog density and the optical density and the optical density made by exposing step wedge were calculated using a digital densitometer (model 07-443, Victoreen Inc, Cleveland, Ohio, USA). The optical densities of the Insight and Ektaspeed film versus thickness of aluminum wedge at the same exposure time were plotted on the graphs. Statistical analyses were applied for comparing the optical densities of the two films. The film density of both Insight films and Ektaspeed Plus films under automatic processing condition was significantly higher over the manual processing. The film density of Insight over Ektaspeed Plus film. To take the full advantage of reducing exposure time, Insight film should be processed automatically

An assessment of osteoporosis and low bone density in postmenopausal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hafeez, F.; Khurshid, R.

2009-01-01

Assessment of bone mineral density and other risk factors of osteoporosis in postmenopausal age group of Pakistani population and to compare them with premenopausal group. The risk factors of osteoporosis were studied both in premenopausal and postmenopausal groups. These risk factors can be exogenous or endogenous. Endogenous risk factors are aging, altered menstrual status, low bone mass, positive family history and oestrogen deficiency. Exogenous factors include lack of adequate nutrition (milk, calcium, vitamin D etc.) and lack of physical exercise. These risk factors were evaluated by taking history, recording height and weight, doing blood parameters and checking bone mineral density. Oestrogen level was carried out by the Eliza technique. Bone mass density was carried out by the bone heel densitometer. The data was analyzed statistically and the values of two groups were compared. The risk factors in postmenopausal group were low BMD, low oestrogen levels, poor intake of milk and calcium and lack of physical exercise. All women should get checked their BMD in this age group. Regular exercise and adequate calcium intake can still help in postmenopausal age group. (author)

Cross calibration of QDR-2000 and QDR-1000 dual-energy X-ray densitometers for bone mineral and soft-tissue measurements

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Abrahamsen, Bo; Gram, J; Hansen, T. B.

1995-01-01

) and fan beam (FB) modes (n = 40-62) as a quality control measure. A total of 83 subjects (79 females and four males) with a wide range of bone mineral densities (BMD) were studied. There was a linear relationship between results with the QDR-1000W and QDR-2000 in SB mode, and between SB and FB mode...... device. Soft-tissue composition with FB (enhanced analysis protocol) on the QDR-2000 differed greatly from that obtained using SB (standard protocol). Lean tissue mass was 4 kg lower and fat mass 4 kg higher in FB mode.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)...

Three dimensional turbulence structure measurements in air/water two phase flow

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, S.K.L.

1986-01-01

The phenomena of turbulent air/water two phase upward and downward flows in a circular test section were investigated. Important flow quantities such as void fraction, liquid velocity, and Reynolds stresses were measured by using both single sensor and three sensor hot film probes. A digital data processing technique based on combined derivative and level thresholding was developed to determine the local void fraction from hot-film anemometer signals. The measured local void fraction was integrated and the result was compared with the chordal averaged void fraction measured by a gamma ray densitometer. It was found that the local measurement underestimated local void fraction due to surface tension effects and bubble deflection by the probe. A correlation based on local parameters characterizing probe/bubble interaction was developed, and it corrected the measured void fraction successfully. The measured void fraction profiles in upward flow and downward flow showed two distinct patterns. In upward flow, bubbles tend to migrate toward the wall and the void fraction profile shows a sharp peak near the wall. In downward flow, as the liquid velocity increases, the wall peaking phenomenon fades out and bubbles tend to migrate toward the center of the pipe

On film quality in barium-air double contrast colon study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rhu, Sang Hyung; Rhee, Jae Ho; Kim, Hai Sung; Cheung, Hwan

1984-01-01

The colon double contrast study provides valuable diagnostic information by means of appropriate control of Kvp and mAa when making double contrast image by injecting air into the colon after coating the colon wall by appropriately diluted Barium solution. The following experiments were performed the results of which allowed to improve the quality of film in barium-air double contrast colon study: (1) Do the pictures have uniform density when measured with a densitometer from three measuring points established in the picture by changing Kvp and mAs depending on the thickness of the patient? (2) Is the quality of the picture improved by being compensated from the adjacent area when using a wedge filter in routine check lateral decubitus and erect view? (3) What is the optimum dilution of barium solution which gives the best result for colon wall coating? The above experiments revealed that as the patient's thickness increased, it should be considered to increase mAs as well as Kvp and a wedge filter could give diagnostically very informative pictures in routine-check lateral decubitus and erect view. And 70-80% solution of Barium-water mixture provided the best quality of double contrast image

Viscosity and Analytical Differences between Raw Milk and UHT Milk of Czech Cows

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kumbár V.

2015-06-01

Full Text Available Viscosity and analytical differences in four milk samples from Czech cows were described. Three samples of UHT milk (0.5%, 1.5%, and 3.5% fat and one sample of raw milk from a Czech bio-farm were analyzed. The following analytical properties were observed: titratable acidity, fat content, dry matter content, and protein content. Titratable acidity and dry matter content decreased in dependence upon the increasing milk fat content. The protein content ranged 3.51-3.57 g per 100 g milk. The milk flow behaviour represented by density, dynamic and kinematic viscosity, as well as the dependence of the milk flow behaviour on temperature were investigated. These properties were measured using a digital densitometer and a rotary viscometer. Milk density was studied at temperatures ranging 0-60 °C and dynamic viscosity at 0-100 °C. With increasing temperature, the density and dynamic viscosity of the studied milk samples decreased. The temperature dependence of dynamic viscosity was manifested in all samples. Kinematic viscosity was calculated from experimental data. Furthermore, mathematical models using Power law and Gaussian fitting were constructed. Determination coefficients achieved high values (0.843-0.997.

Evaluation of piping heat transfer, piping flow regimes, and steam generator heat transfer for the Semiscale Mod-1 isothermal tests

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

French, R.T.

1975-08-01

Selected experimental data pertinent to piping heat transfer, transient fluid flow regimes, and steam generator heat transfer obtained during the Semiscale Mod-1 isothermal blowdown test series (Test Series 1) are analyzed. The tests in this first test series were designed to provide counterparts to the LOFT nonnuclear experiments. The data from the Semiscale Mod-1 intact and broken loop piping are evaluated to determine the surface heat flux and average heat transfer coefficients effective during the blowdown transient and compared with well known heat transfer correlations used in the RELAP4 computer program. Flow regimes in horizontal pipe sections are calculated and compared with data obtained from horizontal and vertical densitometers and with an existing steady state flow map. Effects of steam generator heat transfer are evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively. The Semiscale Mod-1 data and the analysis presented in this report are valuable for evaluating the adequacy and improving the predictive capability of analytical models developed to predict system response to piping heat transfer, piping flow regimes, and steam generator heat transfer during a postulated loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) in a pressurized water reactor (PWR). 16 references. (auth)

Tokai advanced safeguards technology exercise task T-F: study of selected capabilities needed to apply DYMAC principles to safeguarding the Tokai reprocessing plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lowry, L.L.; Augustson, R.H.

1979-10-01

Selected technical capabilities needed to apply the DYMAC principles to safeguarding the Tokai reproprocessing plant are presented. The measurements needed to close the mass balance around the process line and the analysis methods for assessing the results were investigated. Process conditions at the Tokai plant were used when numerical values were needed to assist the analyis. A rationale is presented for the selection of instruments (x-ray fluorescence spectrometers, x-ray densitometers, and gamma-ray spectrometers) best suited to establishing plutonium concentrations and inventories in the feed tanks. The current state of the art in estimating inventory in contactors is reviewed and profitable directions for further work are recommended. A generalized performance surface has been developed that can measure the diversion sensitivity of the safeguard system when the instrument performance levels, the number of measurements made, and the false alarm probability are specified. An analysis of its application to the Tokai plant is given. Finally, a conceptual approach to the problem of IAEA safeguards verification is discussed. It appears possible that, in the process of verifying, the full power of the plant operator's safeguard system can be brought to the service of the IAEA

A microgravity boiling and convective condensation experiment

Science.gov (United States)

Kachnik, Leo; Lee, Doojeong; Best, Frederick; Faget, Nanette

1987-12-01

A boiling and condensing test article consisting of two straight tube boilers, one quartz and one stainless steel, and two 1.5 m long glass-in-glass heat exchangers, on 6 mm ID and one 10 mm ID, was flown on the NASA KC-135 0-G aircraft. Using water as the working fluid, the 5 kw boiler produces two phase mixtures of varying quality for mass flow rates between 0.005 and 0.1 kg/sec. The test section is instrumented at eight locations with absolute and differential pressure transducers and thermocouples. A gamma densitometer is used to measure void fraction, and high speed photography records the flow regimes. A three axis accelerometer provides aircraft acceleration data (+ or - 0.01G). Data are collected via an analog-to-digital conversion and data acquisition system. Bubbly, annular, and slug flow regimes were observed in the test section under microgravity conditions. Flow oscillations were observed for some operating conditions and the effect of the 2-G pullout prior to the 0-G period was observed by continuously recording data throughout the parabolas. A total fo 300 parabolas was flown.

Fiscal 1995 survey report on the environmentally friendly type coal utilization system joint demonstration project. Water-saving coal preparation system joint demonstration project; Kankyo chowagata sekitan riyo system kyodo jissho jigyo. Shosuigata sentan system kyodo jissho jigyo

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

1996-03-01

This project makes demonstration of clean coal technology (CCT) in China and preparation for the base of its spread, controlled environmental pollution due to the coal use by the countries concerned, and contributes to stably secure energy of Japan. The paper made analog operation in the 1960s-1970s, supported by Russia and Poland, introduced two computer systems for operational control and quality control, densimeter, level meter, flow meter and analyzer to coal preparation plants having problems on productivity and quality control, made the optimum operational diagnosis for the plants, and at the same time, demonstrated the comprehensive rehabilitation type system by which water saving, high quality and high effectiveness are obtained. Various types of sensors such as rapid ash meter, scale and densitometer and computers are introduced to coal preparation plants which were recently constructed in China, have jig or heavy liquid cyclone as main preparation equipment and conducts operational control. There, the central control system was demonstrated in which various information collected in the central operation room and in-site equipment is combined by network for high-grade data processing and water saving is achieved. 50 figs., 11 tabs.

The effect of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L on the basic color stability of thermoplastic nylon resin dentures

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Amiyatun Naini

2011-11-01

Full Text Available Nylon thermoplastic resin is material of choice for the making of flexible. This denture do not use wire retention, but has the physical properties of water absorption. In the oral cavity, it will always be in contact with food and beverages consumed. One of the foods that are consumed by the public is chocolate. This study aimed to determine the effect of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L on color stability of the thermoplastic nylon denture base. The study sample was thermoplastic nylon (valplast with a size of 10x10x2 mm soaked in the chocolate solution for 7 and 14 days. As the control, the sample soaked with distilled water. The color testing stability used was densitometer. There were significant differences between the control group (distilled water and the chocolate solution. This was due to dissolved components/tannin having a capillary flow diffusion into thermoplastic nylons that causing discoloration. The conclusion of this study, there was the effect of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L against the color stability of the nylon thermoplastic denture base. The longer time of immersion of nylon thermoplastic the greater the change in color.

Computerized radiation treatment planning

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Laarse, R. van der.

1981-01-01

Following a general introduction, a chain consisting of three computer programs which has been developed for treatment planning of external beam radiotherapy without manual intervention is described. New score functions used for determination of optimal incidence directions are presented and the calculation of the position of the isocentre for each optimum combination of incidence directions is explained. A description of how a set of applicators, covering fields with dimensions of 4 to 20 cm, for the 6 to 20 MeV electron beams of a MEL SL75-20 linear accelerator was developed, is given. A computer program for three dimensional electron beam treatment planning is presented. A microprocessor based treatment planning system for the Selectron remote controlled afterloading system for intracavitary radiotherapy is described. The main differences in treatment planning procedures for external beam therapy with neutrons instead of photons is discussed. A microprocessor based densitometer for plotting isodensity lines in film dosimetry is described. A computer program for dose planning of brachytherapy is presented. Finally a general discussion about the different aspects of computerized treatment planning as presented in this thesis is given. (Auth.)

Use of electron beam on aflatoxins degradation in coconut agar

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rogovschi, Vladimir D.; Nunes, Thaise C.F.; Villavicencio, Anna L.C.H.; Aquino, Simone; Goncalez, Edlayne; Correa, Benedito

2009-01-01

The fungi Aspergillus flavus are capable of producing toxic metabolites, such as aflatoxin, that is one of the most important human carcinogens, according to the 'International Agency for Research on Cancer'. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of electron beam irradiation on degradation of aflatoxin B1 present in laboratorial residues with a dose of 0 kGy and 5.0 kGy. The fungi were cultivated in potato dextrose agar (PDA) for 7 days and transferred to a coconut agar medium, incubated at a temperature of 25 deg C for 14 days to produce the laboratorial wastes (coconut agar) containing aflatoxins. The samples were conditioned in petri dish for radiation treatment of contaminated material and processed in the Electron Accelerator with 0 kGy and 5.0 kGy. Aflatoxin B 1 was extracted with chloroform and separated on a thin layer chromatography plate (TLC) with chloroform: acetone (9:1). All the control and irradiated samples were analyzed in a Shimadzu Densitometer. The detection limit of this methodology is 0.1μg kg -1 . The results indicate that the irradiated samples had a reduction of 75.49 % in the analyzed dose. (author)

Electrophoretic Porosimetry of Sol-Gels

Science.gov (United States)

Snow, L. A.; Smith, D. D.; Sibille, L.; Hunt, A. J.; Ng, J.; Rose, M. Franklin (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

It has been hypothesized that gravity has an effect on the formation and resulting microstructure of sol-gels. In order to more clearly resolve the effect of gravity, pores may be non-destructively analyzed in the wet gel, circumventing the shrinkage and coarsening associated with the drying procedure. We discuss the development of an electrophoretic technique, analogous to affinity chromatography, for the determination of pore size distribution and its application to silica gels. Specifically a monodisperse charged dye is monitored by an optical densitometer as it moves through the wet gel under the influence of an electric field. The transmittance data (output) represents the convolution of the dye concentration profile at the beginning of the run (input) with the pore size distribution (transfer function), i.e. linear systems theory applies. Because of the practical difficulty in producing a delta function input dye profile we prefer instead to use a step function. Average pore size is then related to the velocity of this dye front, while the pore size distribution is related to the spreading of the front. Preliminary results of this electrophoretic porosimetry and its application to ground and space-grown samples will be discussed.

Zymography in Multiwells for Quality Assessment of Proteinases.

Science.gov (United States)

Mechoor, Ambili; Madanan, Madathiparambil G

2017-01-01

Zymography is a well-standardized protocol for the qualitative assessment and analysis of proteinases under specified conditions. However, analysis of a large number of samples simultaneously becomes a challenge when the zymography is carried out by the usual protocol of electrophoresis. This can be overcome by assaying the matrix-degrading proteinases in substrate-impregnated gels in multiwells. Enzymes are copolymerized with 300 mL of 10% acrylamide impregnated with gelatin substrate and incubated for 16 h. The gels are then stained with Coomassie blue, destained with water, and visualized with the naked eye. The intensity; if needed can be measured with a densitometer or gel documentation system. This method has been tested for bacterial collagenases as well as some matrix-degrading metalloproteinases that were purified from rat mammary gland. It can also be used to characterize the enzymes with respect to the type and concentration of the cations required for activity and the role of other regulatory molecules that may affect the enzyme activity. The added advantage of this method is that the electrophoresis set up and electricity is not needed for the procedure.

Study on application of contrastmeter in radiographic examination, 1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ooka, Kiichi; Hirayama, Kazuo; Senda, Tomio.

1986-01-01

As a check on the image quality of radiograph, it is customary to place a Image Quality Indicator, I. Q. I., and a contrastmeter. Although the observation results of I. Q. I. on the radiograph are affected remarkably by the difference amonge individuals, the density difference of contrastmeter dose not depend on it since the radiographic density is measured with densitometer. In order to apply both I. Q. I. and contrastmeter on all material thickness, it is necessary to know the quantitative relationship between the I. Q. I. sensitivity and the density difference in the contrastmeter. The quantitative relationship for aluminium welds are discussed. The value of dennity difference when the I. Q. I. sensitivity is considered is suitable for controlling the image quality of radiograph. For the reason that the value of density difference of contrastmeter is not strongly infuluenced, it is necessary for adopting the value obtained by dividing the density difference by radiographic density. The dimension of contrastmeter for Aluminium welds more over 20 mm in material thickness should be 20 mm in width and 3.0 mm and 4.0 mm in thickness corresponding to the material thickness. (author)

Evaluation of the strength and radiopacity of Portland cement with varying additions of bismuth oxide.

Science.gov (United States)

Saliba, E; Abbassi-Ghadi, S; Vowles, R; Camilleri, J; Hooper, S; Camilleri, J

2009-04-01

To study the effect of addition of various proportions of bismuth oxide on compressive strength and radiopacity of Portland cement. The compressive strength of white Portland cement and cement replaced with 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30% bismuth oxide was evaluated by testing cylinders 6 mm in diameter and 12 mm high. Twelve cylinders were tested for each material under study. The radiopacity of the cements tested was evaluated using an aluminium step-wedge and densitometer. The optical density was compared with the relevant thickness of aluminium (Al). Statistical analysis was performed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with P = 0.05 and Tukey test to perform multiple comparison tests. Various additions of bismuth oxide had no significant effect on the strength of the material when compared with the unmodified Portland cement (P > 0.05). The radiopacity of the cements tested ranged from 2.02 mm Al for Portland cement to 9.79 mm Al for the highest bismuth replacement. Addition of bismuth oxide did not affect the compressive strength of Portland cement. All the bismuth oxide cement mixtures had radio-opacities higher than 3 mm thickness of aluminium.

FY 1991 report on the results of the development of an entrained bed coal gasification power plant. Part 2. Support study for the development of an entrained bed coal gasification power plant (Summarization of the operation study); 1991 nendo seika hokokusho. Funryusho sekitan gaska hatsuden plant kaihatsu (Funryusho sekitan gaska hatsuden plant kaihatsu no shien kenkyu) - Sono 2. Unten kenkyu sokatsu hen

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

1992-04-01

The paper summarized the results of the following tests on a 40 t/d pilot plant which were conducted as the support study for the development of an entrained bed coal gasification power plant: dry desulfurization test, dry dedusting test, high-temperature NOx gas combustion test (gas turbine element test). In the dry desulfurization test, tested were the operational automation and monitoring technology, performance of desulfurization, characteristics of load response, sulfur recovery, etc. In the dry dedusting test, tested were the filter medium/dust separation, powder level meter, continuous dust densitometer, operational automation, characteristics of partial load/load response, improvement of filtration materials, test on characteristics of air conveyance, etc. In the high-temperature low-NOx gas combustion test (gas turbine element test), the following were conducted: examination of the test method of gas turbine materials, inspection/examination of the corrosion of gas turbine combustion test device, inspection/examination of the internal corrosion of the stationary blade for gas turbine deposit test, inspection/examination of gasification system. The results of these support studies were reflected one after another in the project on the development of an entrained bed coal gasification power plant. (NEDO)

Time course of bone mineral density changes during 4-year rituximab therapy in postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

T. A. Raskina

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Objective: to estimate the time course of bone mineral density (BMD changes during 4-year rituximab (RTM therapy in postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA.Subjects and methods. Seventy-nine postmenopausal women with a valid diagnosis of RA were followed up. According to the basic therapy option, all the patients were allocated into two groups: 1 44 patients who received combination therapy with RTM and methotrexate (MT; 2 35 patients who had MT monotherapy. BMD was estimated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry using an Excell XR-46 stationary dualenergy X-ray bone densitometer (Norland, USA.Results. There was a statistically significant increase in femoral neck BMD and T score as compared to the baseline values in the RTM group after 3 years of follow-up. The MT monotherapy group showed no statistically significant densitometric changes in the femoral neck. The similar positive BMD changes were observed 4 years following RTM and MT therapy.Conclusion. Following 2 therapy cycles, femoral neck BMD parameters were noted to be stabilized in the patients with RA. After 3 therapy cycles, there was a positive densitometric change that remained by the fourth therapy cycle.

Status report on BMD studies as of 10th October 1996

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McCloskey, E.V.

1998-01-01

In this interim report, I have simply documented the current status of BMD measurements as reported in each of the working papers from the centres involved. Due to the uneven distribution of subjects within each of the age categories, no attempt has been made to make a statement about the age range of maximum bone density in young adults. Instead, I have analysed, where possible, the mean BMD at the spine in the age group 26-40 years. For ease of comparison, 1 have divided the data into that from centres using the different types of densitometer (Hologic and Lunar). In the Hologic data, the lumbar spine results reflect values of L1-L4 and this will mean that lower values would be reported compared to the Lunar results even if both scanners employed the exact same method of analysis, as the Lunar scans only include L2-L4. In addition, however, Lunar values will have a systematic difference of approximately 10% due to machine differences in edge detection algorithms etc. Where possible, values of total femur BMD have been shown in the Hologic tables and data for the femoral neck BMD in the Lunar tables. (author)

[High prevalence of osteoporosis in asymptomatic postmenopausal Mapuche women].

Science.gov (United States)

Ponce, Lucía; Larenas, Gladys; Riedemann, Pablo

2002-12-01

Genetic and environmental factors are responsible for variations in the frequency of osteoporosis. Prevalence of osteoporosis in Mapuche women (native Chileans) is unknown. To assess the prevalence and risk factors for osteoporosis in Mapuche women. A random sample of 95 asymptomatic postmenopausal Mapuche females, stratified by age, was studied. Women with diseases or medications that could interfere with calcium metabolism were excluded. Spine and femoral neck bone mass density was determined using a Lunar DPX Alpha densitometer. Seventeen percent of women had normal bone mineral density in both spine and femoral neck. In the spine, 25.3% had a normal bone mineral density, 17.9% had osteopenia and 56.8% had osteoporosis. In the femoral neck, 34.7% had a normal bone mineral density, 57.9% had osteopenia, and 7.4% had osteoporosis. There was a positive correlation between bone mineral density and body mass index. Women with more than one hour per day of physical activity, had a significantly lower proportion of osteopenia or osteoporosis. No association between bone mineral density and parity or calcium intake, was observed. There is a high prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis among Mapuche women. Osteoporosis was associated with low body mass index.

Methods for PCO2 measurement in coral reef. Sangosho ni okeru PCO2 no genba sokutei

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kitano, H; Saito, H; Mito, A; Tamura, N; Takahashi, C [National Research Laboratory of Metrology, Tsukuba (Japan)

1993-05-01

This paper introduces an instrument to measure CO2 partial pressure in sea water being developed for coral reef site measurements. The instrument uses a method that sea water is contacted with a gaseous phase via a gaseous body permeating membrane, and CO2 partial pressure in the gaseous phase is measured when CO2s in the sea water and the gaseous phase have reached a dissolution equilibrium, using an adequate analyzer. The gaseous body permeating membrane uses a material with high CO2 permeation rates, such as porous polytetrafluoroethylene. The paper describes a system that applies a gaschromatograph process to analyzing CO2 in the gaseous phase, and an automatic measuring system that utilizes a non-discrete infrared densitometer. Basic experiments are being carried out that are intended to develop a CO2 partial pressure sensor using optic fibers. This is a device to measure CO2 concentration in sea water, in which fluorescent coloring aqueous solution is contacted with sea water via a gaseous body permeation membrane, and change in fluorescence intensity in the said solution as a result of CO2 melting into it from sea water is utilized. 3 refs., 4 figs.

Nucleus fingerprinting for the unique identification of Feulgen-stained nuclei

Science.gov (United States)

Friedrich, David; Brozio, Matthias; Bell, André; Biesterfeld, Stefan; Böcking, Alfred; Aach, Til

2012-03-01

DNA Image Cytometry is a method for non-invasive cancer diagnosis which measures the DNA content of Feulgen-stained nuclei. DNA content is measured using a microscope system equipped with a digital camera as a densitometer and estimating the DNA content from the absorption of light when passing through the nuclei. However, a DNA Image Cytometry measurement is only valid if each nucleus is only measured once. To assist the user in preventing multiple measurements of the same nucleus, we have developed a unique digital identifier for the characterization of Feulgen-stained nuclei, the so called Nucleus Fingerprint. Only nuclei with a new fingerprint can be added to the measurement. This fingerprint is based on basic nucleus features, the contour of the nucleus and the spatial relationship to nuclei in the vicinity. Based on this characterization, a classifier for testing two nuclei for identity is presented. In a pairwise comparison of ~40000 pairs of mutually different nuclei, 99.5% were classified as different. In another 450 tests, the fingerprints of the same nucleus recorded a second time were in all cases judged identical. We therefore conclude that our Nucleus Fingerprint approach robustly prevents the repeated measurement of nuclei in DNA Image Cytometry.

Precision of bone densitometry measurements: When is change true change and does it vary across bone density values?

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wong, J.C.H.; Griffiths, M.R.

2003-01-01

The precision error of the bone densitometer is used to interpret significant change in bone mineral density (BMD) in serial studies. The precision error can be expressed as standard deviation (SD) or coefficient of variation (CV). The aims of this study are to determine the precision error over a range of BMD values and to demonstrate the application of the precision error in clinical practice. A bone phantom was used consisting of a perspex block with eight compartments containing varying amounts of hydroxyapatite powder to simulate a range of bone densities. The block was scanned 21 times and manual regions placed over each compartment to measure the BMD in each compartment. There were no significant differences in the variances or SD for all eight compartments, that is, over the range of BMD normally encountered in clinical practice. However, the calculated CV show a progressive fall in values as the BMD rises. Therefore, the SD should be used to calculate significant BMD change. In a practise with quality control procedures in place to detect calibration drift and with appropriately trained personnel, a change of approximately 0.05 g/cm 2 is generally regarded as being a significant change at a 95% confidence level. Copyright (2003) Blackwell Science Pty Ltd

Validation of two-phase flow code THYC on VATICAN experiment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maurel, F.; Portesse, A.; Rimbert, P.; Thomas, B.

1997-01-01

As part of a comprehensive program for THYC validation (THYC is a 3-dimensional two-phase flow computer code for PWR core configuration), an experimental project > has been initiated by the Direction des Etudes et Recherches of Electricite de France. Two mock-ups tested in Refrigerant-114, VATICAN-1 (with simple space grids) and VATICAN-2 (with mixing grids) were set up to investigate void fraction distributions using a single beam gamma densitometer. First, experiments were conducted with the VATICAN-1 mock-up. A set of constitutive laws to be used in rod bundles was determined but some doubts still remain for friction losses closure laws for oblique flow over tubes. From VATICAN-2 tests, calculations were performed using the standard set of correlations. Comparison with the experimental data shows an underprediction of void fraction by THYC in disturbed regions. Analyses highlight the poor treatment of axial relative velocity in these regions. A fitting of the radial and axial relative velocity values in the disturbed region improves the prediction of void fraction by the code but without any physical explanation. More analytical experiments should be carried out to validate friction losses closure laws for oblique flows and relative velocity downstream of a mixing grid. (author)

Validation of two-phase flow code THYC on VATICAN experiment

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Maurel, F.; Portesse, A.; Rimbert, P.; Thomas, B. [EDF/DER, Dept. TTA, 78 - Chatou (France)

1997-12-31

As part of a comprehensive program for THYC validation (THYC is a 3-dimensional two-phase flow computer code for PWR core configuration), an experimental project <> has been initiated by the Direction des Etudes et Recherches of Electricite de France. Two mock-ups tested in Refrigerant-114, VATICAN-1 (with simple space grids) and VATICAN-2 (with mixing grids) were set up to investigate void fraction distributions using a single beam gamma densitometer. First, experiments were conducted with the VATICAN-1 mock-up. A set of constitutive laws to be used in rod bundles was determined but some doubts still remain for friction losses closure laws for oblique flow over tubes. From VATICAN-2 tests, calculations were performed using the standard set of correlations. Comparison with the experimental data shows an underprediction of void fraction by THYC in disturbed regions. Analyses highlight the poor treatment of axial relative velocity in these regions. A fitting of the radial and axial relative velocity values in the disturbed region improves the prediction of void fraction by the code but without any physical explanation. More analytical experiments should be carried out to validate friction losses closure laws for oblique flows and relative velocity downstream of a mixing grid. (author)

Correlation of bone mineral density with biochemical markers in different menopausal statuses of Pakistani women

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maqsood, A.; Nadia, N.; Farzana, A.; Bashir, A.

2005-01-01

Aim: The present study is aimed to use bone mineral density (BMD) and various biochemical markers to predict the fracture risk at different menopausal statuses in Pakistani women. Method: Seventy women aged between 28-80 years at various menopausal statuses participated in this study. BMD (T score) of right calcaneus was determined using SAHARA ultrasound bone densitometer that measures the transmission of high frequency from heel. Various biochemical markers such as alkaline phosphates, calcium and inorganic phosphorus were measured from the serum of venous blood using standard kits of Randox. Results: Alkaline phosphates was raised in per menopausal, postmenopausal and postmenopausal with hysterectomy and ligation groups of women as compared to premenopausal women but did not achieve significance (P>0.05). Serum calcium level was significantly lower in postmenopausal women than premenopausal women and inorganic phosphorus decrease significantly when compared with premenopausal and postmenopausal with ligation and hysterectomy. BMD (T score) values of postmenopausal osteopenic and postmenopausal osteoprotic women were significantly lower than those of premenopausal women. BMD values of women under study have negative correlation with age, alkaline phosphates and calcium. Conclusion: Our study conclude that in addition to BMD, serum levels of alkaline phosphate, calcium and inorganic phosphorus can be valuable biochemical markers in predicting bone fracture risk at different menopausal states. (author)

Method of judging leak sources in a reactor container

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maeda, Katsuji.

1984-01-01

Purpose: To enable exact judgement for leak sources upon leak accident in a reactor container of BWR type power plants as to whether the sources are present in the steam system or coolant system. Method: If leak is resulted from the main steam system, the hydrogen density in the reactor container is about 170 times as high as the same amount of leak from the reactor water. Accordingly, it can be judged whether the leak source is present in the steam system or reactor water system based on the change in the indication of hydrogen densitometer within the reactor container, and the indication from the drain amount from the sump in the container or the indication of a drain flow meter in the container dehumidifier. Further, I-131, Na-24 and the like as the radioactive nucleides in sump water of the container are measured to determine the density ratio R = (I-131)/(Na-24), and it is judged that the leak is resulted in nuclear water if the density ratio R is equal to that of reactor water and that the leak is resulted from the main steam or like other steam system if the density ratio R is higher than by about 100 times than that of reactor water. (Horiuchi, T.)

Alpha particle radiography and the track plastic detector CR-39

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Souza, Bismarck Amilar de.

1991-05-01

This work develops the radiographic technique using charged particle beams. This technique complements the X-ray conventional radiography, and presents some advantages in certain cases. The material used as nuclear plastic detector was CR-39, manufactured by Pershre Mould. England, of 250 and 1000 μm nominal thicknesses. The irradiations were made with 7 MeV/Nucleon alpha particles beams, accelerated in the CV-28 Cyclotron of Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear/CNEN - Rio de Janeiro. The etch conditions used were a Na OH 6,25 N solution at 70 0 C, varying the etch time, so that the best etch time was found to be six hours. The calibration curve is presented, which permits images interpretation, showed in terms of light transmittance (obtained using a micro densitometer), and in terms of energy losses suffered by alpha particles in several aluminum degradating thicknesses. This curve was checked by the use of other degradating materials: Mylar, Makrofol, and CR-39 itself. The influence of alpha particle beam FWHM widening on images quality, when it crosses several degradating materials, is also presented. Radiographs of some specimen are presented, including some images obtained varying some irradiation and etch parameters. (author). 62 refs., 22 figs., 19 tabs

Ultra-high performance, solid-state, autoradiographic image digitization and analysis system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lear, J.L.; Pratt, J.P.; Ackermann, R.F.; Plotnick, J.; Rumley, S.

1990-01-01

We developed a Macintosh II-based, charge-coupled device (CCD), image digitization and analysis system for high-speed, high-resolution quantification of autoradiographic image data. A linear CCD array with 3,500 elements was attached to a precision drive assembly and mounted behind a high-uniformity lens. The drive assembly was used to sweep the array perpendicularly to its axis so that an entire 20 x 25-cm autoradiographic image-containing film could be digitized into 256 gray levels at 50-microns resolution in less than 30 sec. The scanner was interfaced to a Macintosh II computer through a specially constructed NuBus circuit board and software was developed for autoradiographic data analysis. The system was evaluated by scanning individual films multiple times, then measuring the variability of the digital data between the different scans. Image data were found to be virtually noise free. The coefficient of variation averaged less than 1%, a value significantly exceeding the accuracy of both high-speed, low-resolution, video camera (VC) systems and low-speed, high-resolution, rotating drum densitometers (RDD). Thus, the CCD scanner-Macintosh computer analysis system offers the advantage over VC systems of the ability to digitize entire films containing many autoradiograms, but with much greater speed and accuracy than achievable with RDD scanners

FY 1989 report on the results of the development of the entrained bed coal gasification power plant. Support study for the development of the entrained bed coal gasification power plant; 1989 nendo seika hokokusho. Funryusho sekitan gaska hatsuden plant kaihatsu (Funryusho sekitan gaska hatsuden plant kaihatsu no shien kenkyu)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

1990-05-01

For the purpose of supplying the data necessary for construction/operation/maintenance of system, gas turbine, etc. of the desulfurization/dust removal process to be adopted to a pilot plant of 200t/d entrained bed coal gasification power generation, support study was made using the Yubari 40t/d test equipment, and the FY 1989 results were summarized. As to the operation of the 40t/d gasification system, operation was stably continued, and also the system was able to feed gas to the wake device. In the high temperature dry desulfurization test, test was made on the following: structure of the sampling system of the continuous analyzer installed in the coal gas system and circulation gas system, load response corresponding control system, sequence control of the system for supplying reducing agent to SO{sub 2} reduction tower and the system for ash discharge, back washing of D-42 lift gas filter, etc. In the high temperature dry dust removal test, improvement in filtration material/dust separation performance, sequence control of the filtration material supply/discharge system, continuous dust densitometer, operational automation, etc. Through the tests, obtained were the results that are useful for the 200t/d plant. (NEDO)

Age-related proximal femur bone mineral loss in South Indian women: a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry study.

Science.gov (United States)

Anburajan, M; Rethinasabapathi, C; Korath, M P; Ponnappa, B G; Kumar, K S; Panicker, T M; Govindan, A; Jagadeesan, G N

2001-04-01

i) To collect normative data for proximal femur bone mineral density (BMD) in South Indian women using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and ii) to study the rate and significance of hip bone mineral loss with advancing age in this population. Forty five women, whose age ranged from 16 to 84 years were studied. This sample was drawn randomly from general medical practice at KJ Hospital, Chennai, South India during November, 1997 to April, 1998. Of these 45 cases, 21 were pre-menopausal (mean +/- SD age = 30.9+/-8.8 years) and 24 post-menopausal (mean +/- SD age = 62.1+/-11.0 years). Subjects with secondary bone diseases were excluded. Also excluded were those taking any drugs known to affect calcium metabolism e.g., thiazide diuretics, oestrogen and calcium. Subjects were divided into seven decadal age groups from 15-24 years to 75-84 years. BMD of the right proximal femur was evaluated using a QDR-1000 DXA bone densitometer (Hologic Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts, USA). Data analysis was done with SPSS/PC statistical software package. Linear regression analysis showed significant (p India women have been evaluated and it may prove useful for diagnosing osteoporosis in the women of South India.

The use of gamma radiation in fluid flow measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tjugum, S.A.; Johansen, G.A.

2000-01-01

The use of gamma radiation in densitometry measurements is a well known principle. These measurements are often used in the oil industry where there is a need for finding the gas fraction of an oil/water/gas flow. The traditional gamma densitometer has a simple construction, where the measured parameter is the attenuation of a single gamma beam. High reliability, robustness and the clamp-on possibility are advantages that this type of instruments offer. More information can be found by studying how radiation is scattered and absorbed by matter. This information is needed in new multiphase flow meters. Problems to be solved in these instruments are how to find volume fractions of more than two components, how to handle different flow regimes in non-homogeneous flow, and how to do measurements independent of the salinity of the water. The new technology involves multi-energy, multi-mode and multi-sensor systems. At the University of Bergen the focus has been on how to do flow regime and salinity independent measurements by using multi-sensor and multi-mode systems. This paper gives an overview of the different techniques, and presents the latest results within this field of research at the University of Bergen. (author)

Further development of drag bodies for the measurement of mass flow rates during blowdown experiments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brockmann, E.; John, H.; Reimann, J.

1983-01-01

Drag bodies have already been used for sometime for the measurement of mass flow rates in blowdown experiments. Former research concerning the drag body behaviour in non-homogeneous two-phase flows frequently dealt with special effects by means of theoretical models only. For pipe flows most investigations were conducted for ratios of drag plate area to pipe cross section smaller 0.02. The present paper gives the results of experiments with drag bodies in a horizontal, non-homogeneous two-phase pipe flow with slip, which were carried through under the sponsorship of the German Ministry for Research and Technology (BMFT). Special interest was layed on the behaviour of the drag coefficient in stationary flows and at various cross sectional ratios. Both design and response of various drag bodies, which were developed at the Battelle-Institut, were tested in stationary and instationary two-phase flows. The influences of density and velocity profiles as well as the drag body position were studied. The results demonstrate, that the drag body is capable of measuring mass flow rates in connection with a gamma densitometer also in non-homogeneous two-phase flows. Satisfying results could be obtained, using simply the drag coefficient which was determined from single-phase flow calibrations

In-vivo precision - a crucial factor in bone densitometry. First results from the clinical practice

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Slavchev, A.

2008-01-01

The good densitometric practice should include assessment of the measurement accuracy and precision as a warranty for the timely recognition and assessment of the disease and particularly important for the monitoring and assessment of its development as well as for the choice of the adequate therapy. First results from a large-scale study of the performance of DXA densitometers under operation throughout the country prove that one of the main characteristics - precision has prevalent importance for the clinical practice than the other one - accuracy, namely in diagnostics and therapy particularly the long term monitoring of the patients. The quality control especially in its part of radiation protection measurements exhibits high specificity concerning both operator and patient. The procedure of determining of the in-vivo precision error and the least significant change, respectively, and the screening as well are interconnected with a higher degree of radiation exposure for the operator staff. The in-vivo precision (errors) obtained from the clinical practice in the most of the osteoporosis centres is inferior to the values recommended by the ISCD and by this represent a warranty for a high degree of objectivity and reducing the subjective and stochastic factors in diagnostics and following-up of osteoporosis. (author)

Qualitative analysis of barium particles coated in small intestinal mucosa of rabbit by using scanning electron microscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, Yong Suk; Ha, Hyun Kwon; Lee, Yang Seob; Kim, Jae Kyun; Yoon, Seong Eon; Kim, Jung Hoon; Chung, Dong Jin; Auh, Yong Ho

1998-01-01

To qualitatively analysed barium coating status in the intestinal mucosa, we used scanning electron microscopy to observe barium particles coated in the small intestinal mucosa of rabbit, and we attempted to assess the relationship between electron microscopic findings and radiographic densities. Six different combination of barium and methylcellulose suspensions were infused into the resected small intestines of 15 rabbits. Barium powders were mixed with water to make 40% and 70% w/v barium solutions, and also mixed with 0.5% methylcellulose solutions were used as a double contrast agent. After the infusion of barium suspensions, a mammography unit was used to obtain radiographs of the small intestine, and their optical densities were measured by a densitometer. Thereafter, photographs of barium-coated small intestinal mucosa were obtained using a scanning electron microscope (x 8,000), and the number of barium particles in the unit area were measured. To compare the relationship between the electron microscopic findings and optical densities, statistical analysis using Spearman correlation was performed. This study shows that by using scanning electron microscopy, barium particles coated on the small intestinal mucosa can be qualitatively analysed. It also shows that the number of small barium particles measured by scanning electron microscopy is related to optical densities. (author). 14 refs., 2 figs

Novel insulin from the bullfrog: its structure and function in protein secretion by hepatocytes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hulsebus, J.J.

1987-01-01

Bullfrog insulin was extracted and purified from the pancreas of Rana catesbeiana adults using gel filtration and reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography. Amino acid analysis of bullfrog insulin revealed 52 amino acids instead of the most common number of 51. The most unique features of bullfrog insulin is a two amino acid extension on the amino terminus (A1) of the A chain. This is the only insulin to date that has an extension at this position. Bullfrog and porcine insulin increase protein secretion from bullfrog adult and three developmental stages of tadpole hepatocytes in a totally defined, serum-free culture system. The hormone slightly stimulates protein secretion by premetamorphic and early prometamorphic tadpoles. Late prometamorphic tadpoles respond to bullfrog and porcine insulin with higher concentrations of secreted protein than either of the two previous developmental stages. Insulin treated adult hepatocytes secrete significantly higher concentrations of protein than any of the tadpole stages. 35 S-methionine and 35 S-cysteine were added to the culture medium for twelve hours. Proteins secreted into the medium were separated using SDS polyacrylamide linear gradient gels. Densitometer scans of autoradiograms did not show an increases in any specific proteins, but did show a generalized increase in all secreted proteins for both adults, and tadpoles

Correlation of expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and -2 in human gingival cells of periodontitis patients.

Science.gov (United States)

Kim, Kyung-A; Chung, Soo-Bong; Hawng, Eun-Young; Noh, Seung-Hyun; Song, Kwon-Ho; Kim, Hanna-Hyun; Kim, Cheorl-Ho; Park, Young-Guk

2013-02-01

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are capable of degrading extracellular matrix, and they are inducible enzymes depending on an inflammatory environment such as periodontitis and bacterial infection in periodontal tissue. Gingival inflammation has been postulated to be correlated with the production of MMP-2 and MMP-9. The objective of this study was to quantify the expression and activity of MMP-9 and -2, and to determine the correlation between activity and expression of these MMPs in human gingival tissues with periodontitis. The gingival tissues of 13 patients were homogenized in 500 µL of phosphate buffered saline with a protease inhibitor cocktail. The expression and activity of MMP-2 and -9 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot analysis, and quantified by a densitometer. For the correlation line, statistical analysis was performed using the Systat software package. MMP-9 was highly expressed in all gingival tissue samples, whereas MMP-2 was underexpressed compared with MMP-9. MMP-9 activity increased together with the MMP-9 expression level, with a positive correlation (r=0.793, P=0.01). The correlation was not observed in MMP-2. The expression of MMP-2 and -9 might contribute to periodontal physiological and pathological processes, and the degree of MMP-9 expression and activity are predictive indicators relevant to the progression of periodontitis.

Dosimetric implications of shifts in linear accelerator electron beam energy detected in routine constancy checks: a scanning film densitometry detection method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cross, P.; Wang, Y.

1993-01-01

The effects of change in electron beam energy are primarily manifest by changes in the range parameters of the depth ionisation/dose curve. Even for a change of up to 10% in the mean energy at the surface, E O , the dose to the depth of maximum on the central axis changes by less than 1%. Using as a limit of acceptability that the change in the therapeutic range (R 85 ) should not be more than ±1.5 mm, the precision required by beam energy checking is that a change of 0.4 MeV in E O should be detectable for all electron beams provided by the accelerator. To satisfy this criterion a routine method is proposed that uses therapy verification film exposed to the electron beam under a perspex wedge. The automatically processed film is then scanned with the densitometer of a beam data acquisition system (BDAS). The optical density versus distance plot is analysed using the BDAS computer that converts it to a quasi-depth dose curve and then calculates E O and E p,0 from the range parameters. The results for electron beams from console energies of 5 to 14 MeV show that the test criterion is within the capability of the method, and that the method is very practical for routine use in a quality assurance program. 9 refs., 5 tab., 2 figs

CHANGES OF BONE MINERAL DENSITY DURING FOUR-YEAR RITUXIMAB AND METHOTREXATE THERAPY IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

T. A. Raskina

2016-01-01

Full Text Available Objective: to estimate the changes of bone mineral density (BMD  at the femoral neck and lumbar spine during fouryear combination  therapy with rituximab (RTM  and methotrexate (MT in postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA.Subjects and methods. 79 postmenopausal women with a documented diagnosis of RA were followed up. They were divided into two groups according to the basic treatment:  1 44 patients received combination  therapy with RTM and MT; 2 36 patients had MT monotherapy. BMD was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry using an Excell XR-46 stationary dual-energy X-ray bone densitometer  (Norland, USA once per year (over 48 months.Results and discussion. The group of patients receiving RTM and MT achieved a statistically significant increase in femoral neck BMD after 36 months of therapy. Statistically significant changes in femoral neck BMD were not revealed in the patients who had MT monotherapy. Lumbar spine BMD was decreased during MT monotherapy, but it remained stable in the RTM + MT group throughout  the 48-month follow-up.Conclusion. Thirty-six-month combination  treatment with RTM and MT provides positive changes in femoral neck BMD, which persists within 48 months after treatment initiation.  Lumbar spine BMD remained stable in the patients receiving RTM and MT.

A new device for acquiring ground truth on the absorption of light by turbid waters

Science.gov (United States)

Klemas, V. (Principal Investigator); Srna, R.; Treasure, W.

1974-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. A new device, called a Spectral Attenuation Board, has been designed and tested, which enables ERTS-1 sea truth collection teams to monitor the attenuation depths of three colors continuously, as the board is being towed behind a boat. The device consists of a 1.2 x 1.2 meter flat board held below the surface of the water at a fixed angle to the surface of the water. A camera mounted above the water takes photographs of the board. The resulting film image is analyzed by a micro-densitometer trace along the descending portion of the board. This yields information on the rate of attenuation of light penetrating the water column and the Secchi depth. Red and green stripes were painted on the white board to approximate band 4 and band 5 of the ERTS MSS so that information on the rate of light absorption by the water column of light in these regions of the visible spectrum could be concurrently measured. It was found that information from a red, green, and white stripe may serve to fingerprint the composition of the water mass. A number of these devices, when automated, could also be distributed over a large region to provide a cheap method of obtaining valuable satellite ground truth data at present time intervals.

Nephrotoxicity of Bence-Jones proteins: interference in renal epithelial cell acidification

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Nicastri A.L.

2002-01-01

Full Text Available The aim of the present study was to evaluate the acidification of the endosome-lysosome system of renal epithelial cells after endocytosis of two human immunoglobulin lambda light chains (Bence-Jones proteins, BJP obtained from patients with multiple myeloma. Renal epithelial cell handling of two BJP (neutral and acidic BJP was evaluated by rhodamine fluorescence. Renal cells (MDCK were maintained in culture and, when confluent, were incubated with rhodamine-labeled BJP for different periods of time. Photos were obtained with a fluorescence microscope (Axiolab-Zeiss. Labeling density was determined on slides with a densitometer (Shimadzu Dual-Wavelength Flying-Spot Scanner CS9000. Endocytosis of neutral and acidic BJP was correlated with acidic intracellular compartment distribution using acridine orange labeling. We compared the pattern of distribution after incubation of native neutral and acidic BJP and after complete deglycosylation of BJP by periodate oxidation. The subsequent alteration of pI converted neutral BJP to acidic BJP. There was a significant accumulation of neutral BJP in endocytic structures, reduced lysosomal acidification, and a diffuse pattern of acidification. This pattern was reversed after total deglycosylation and subsequent alteration of the pI to an acidic BJP. We conclude that the physicochemical characteristics of BJP interfere with intracellular acidification, possibly explaining the strong nephrotoxicity of neutral BJP. Lysosomal acidification is fundamental for adequate protein processing and catabolism.

Consolidation of mechanically alloyed nanocrystalline Cu-Nb-ZrO{sub 2} powder by spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Eymann, K., E-mail: Konrad.Eymann@tu-dresden.de [Institute of Materials Science, Technische Universitaet Dresden, 01062 Dresden (Germany); Riedl, T.; Bram, A.; Ruhnow, M.; Boucher, R.; Kirchner, A.; Kieback, B. [Institute of Materials Science, Technische Universitaet Dresden, 01062 Dresden (Germany)

2012-09-15

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Solid solution of Cu-Nb was achieved by mechanically alloying Cu, Nb and ZrO{sub 2}. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer In as-milled state the Cu-Nb-ZrO{sub 2} powders show an average Cu grain size of 16 nm. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Mechanical and electrical properties are studied in dependence of thermal exposure. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Compaction at 1000 Degree-Sign C/1 min using SPS increases Cu grain size to 43 nm. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Bulk samples reach a maximum IACS of 16% and 98% relative density. - Abstract: This work presents the synthesis of ultra fine grained high-strength Cu-Nb-ZrO{sub 2} bulk samples via mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering. Technologically relevant properties such as density, micro-hardness, and electrical conductivity were studied in terms of the compaction parameters, in particular the sintering temperature and holding time. An optimum process parameter combination has been found T = 950 Degree-Sign C, t = 1 min, and 65 MPa, which yield a micro-hardness of 325 HV, 97.5% relative density, and electrical conductivity of 10% IACS. The dependence of these properties on the compaction parameters is explained by analyzing the microstructure, i.e. grain size, presence and distribution of phases, and porosity, with X-ray diffraction, optical and electron microscopy as well as with an Archimedes densitometer.

[MINERAL BONE DENSITY AND BODY COMPOSITION IN PARTICIPANTS IN EXPERIMENT MARS-500].

Science.gov (United States)

Novikov, V E; Oganov, V S; Kabitskaya, O E; Murashko, L M; Naidina, V P; Chernikhova, E A

2016-01-01

Investigations of the bone system and body composition in Mars-500 test-subjects (prior to and on completion of the experiment) involved dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) using the HOLOGIC Delphy densitometer and the protocol performed to examine cosmonauts. Bone density of lumber vertebrae and femoral proximal epiphysis, and body composition were measured. Reliable changes in vertebral density found in 3 test-subjects displayed different trends from +2.6 to -2.4%. At the same time, the experiment decreased significantly mineral density of the femoral proximal epiphysis, including the neck, in all test-subjects. Four test-subjects had cranial mineralization increased by 5-9%, same as in some cosmonauts after space flight. All tests-subjects incurred adipose loss from 2 to 7 kg; one test-subject lost 20 kg, i.e. his adipose mass became three times less. Changes in lean mass (1-3 kg) typically were negative; as for changes in lean mass of extremities, they could be linked with adherence to one or another type of physical activity. Therefore, extended exposure to confinement may affect mineralization of some parts of the skeleton. Unlike real space missions and long-term bedrest studies conducted at the Institute of Biomedical Problems in the past, Mars-500 did not cause clinically significant mineral losses (osteoporosis, osteopenia), probably because of the absence of effects of microgravity.

Measurement of high energy x-ray beam penumbra with Gafchromic trade mark sign EBT radiochromic film

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cheung Tsang; Butson, Martin J.; Yu, Peter K. N.

2006-01-01

High energy x-ray beam penumbra are measured using Gafchromic trade mark sign EBT film. Gafchromic trade mark sign EBT, due to its limited energy dependence and high spatial resolution provide a high level of accuracy for dose assessment in penumbral regions. The spatial resolution of film detector systems is normally limited by the scanning resolution of the densitometer. Penumbral widths (80%/20%) measured at D max were found to be 2.8, 3.0, 3.2, and 3.4 mm (±0.2 mm) using 5, 10, 20, and 30 cm square field sizes, respectively, for a 6 MV linear accelerator produced x-ray beam. This is compared to 3.2 mm±0.2 mm (Kodak EDR2) and 3.6 mm±0.2 mm (Kodak X-Omat V) at 10 cmx10 cm measured using radiographic film. Using a zero volume extrapolation technique for ionization chamber measurements, the 10 cmx10 cm field penumbra at D max was measured to be 3.1 mm, a close match to Gafchromic trade mark sign EBT results. Penumbral measurements can also be made at other depths, including the surface, as the film does not suffer significantly from dosimetric variations caused by changing x-ray energy spectra. Gafchromic trade mark sign EBT film provides an adequate measure of penumbral dose for high energy x-ray beams

Elevation of D4 dopamine receptor mRNA in postmortem schizophrenic brain.

Science.gov (United States)

Stefanis, N C; Bresnick, J N; Kerwin, R W; Schofield, W N; McAllister, G

1998-01-01

The D4 dopamine (DA) receptor has been proposed to be a target for the development of a novel antipsychotic drug based on its pharmacological and distribution profile. There is much interest in whether D4 DA receptor levels are altered in schizophrenia, but the lack of an available receptor subtype-specific radioligand made this difficult to quantitate. In this study, we examined whether D4 mRNA levels are altered in different brain regions of schizophrenics compared to controls. Ribonuclease protection assays were carried out on total RNA samples isolated postmortem from frontal cortex and caudate brain regions of schizophrenics and matched controls. 32P-labelled RNA probes to the D4 DA receptor and to the housekeeping gene, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), were hybridised with the RNA samples, digested with ribonucleases to remove unhybridised probe, and separated on 6% sequencing gels. Densitometer analysis on the subsequent autoradiogams was used to calculate the relative optical density of D4 mRNA compared to G3PDH mRNA. Statistical analysis of the data revealed a 3-fold higher level (P<0.011) of D4 mRNA in the frontal cortex of schizophrenics compared to controls. No increase was seen in caudate. D4 receptors could play a role in mediating dopaminergic activity in frontal cortex, an activity which may be malfunctioning in schizophrenia.

Dosimetric properties of commercial glasses and sand for high doses

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Teixeira, Maria Ines

2004-01-01

Commercial glasses (transparent and colored) produced by Cebrace, Brazil, Sao Paulo, and sand samples of different Brazilian beaches were studied, due to their low cost and easy handling, to verify the possibility of their use in high dose dosimetry. The main dosimetric characteristics were determined using a densitometer, a spectrophotometer, a thermoluminescent (TL) reader and an electronic paramagnetic resonance system. The gamma irradiations were carried out using a Gamma-Cell 220 and a panoramic source ( 60 Co) of IPEN. An optical absorption band was observed at 420 nm in the glass samples. The TL glow curves presented peaks at 205 deg C, 135 deg C, 150 deg C and 145 deg C for the transparent, bronze, brown and green glass samples, respectively. All EPR spectra of the glasses showed Fe 3+ characteristic signals at g = 4.27 and 2.01. The gamma irradiated sand samples presented two peaks at 110 deg C and 170 deg C and an EPR signal at g= 1.999. However, these materials present a pronounced thermal fading at room temperature after irradiation. With the objective to minimize this thermal fading, both glass and sand samples were submitted to different pre- and post-irradiation thermal treatments. The glass and sand samples showed the possibility of utilization for high dose dosimetry and as Yes/No irradiation detectors. (author)

State of maintenance of JRR-3M neutron radiography facilities

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tsuruno, Akira

1994-01-01

Nearly two years have elapsed since the use of the JRR-3M neutron radiography facilities was begun. Five years passed since the decision of the detailed specification, and this period is enough for the contained equipment and the peripheral equipment become old-fashioned. In addition, as unexpected high performance was obtained by these facilities, the measures were to be taken in many places. In this fiscal year, the improvement of the contained equipment and the increase of the peripheral equipment were carried out. These improvement and renewal are still insufficient for these facilities demonstrate the performance fully, and are expected to continue hereafter. As the measures taken in relation to the TNRF-2, the renewal of the BN shutter, the remodeling of the black box and the improvement of the interlock were carried out. As the measures taken in relation to CNRF, the new installation of auxiliary shields, the remodeling of the shutter and the new installation of internal illumination were carried out. As the measures taken in relation to the image processor, the outline based on long term perspective is shown. The equipments which were purchased in this fiscal year are the work station which becomes the center of the image-processing network, the cooled CCD camera system and the SIT camera for renewal. In the dark room, a scanning micro-densitometer was installed. (K.I.)

Bone mineral measurements of subchondral and trabecular bone in healthy and osteoporotic rabbits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Castaneda, S; Largo, R.; Marcos, M.E.; Herrero-Beaumont, G.; Calvo, E.; Rodriguez-Salvanes, F.; Diaz-Curiel, M.

2006-01-01

Experimental models of osteoporosis in rabbits are useful to investigate anabolic agents because this animal has a fast bone turnover with predominant remodelling over the modelling processes. For that purpose, it is necessary to characterize the densitometric values of each type of bony tissue. To determine areal bone mass measurement in the spine and in trabecular, cortical and subchondral bone of the knee in healthy and osteoporotic rabbits. Bone mineral content and bone mineral density were measured in lumbar spine, global knee, and subchondral and cortical bone of the knee with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry using a Hologic QDR-1000/W densitometer in 29 skeletally mature female healthy New Zealand rabbits. Ten rabbits underwent triplicate scans for evaluation of the effect of repositioning. Osteoporosis was experimentally induced in 15 rabbits by bilateral ovariectomy and postoperative corticosteroid treatment for 4 weeks. Identical dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) studies were performed thereafter. Mean values of bone mineral content at the lumbar spine, global knee, subchondral bone and cortical tibial metaphysis were: 1934±217 mg, 878±83 mg, 149±14 mg and 29±7.0 mg, respectively. The mean values of bone mineral density at the same regions were: 298±24 mg/cm 2 , 455±32 mg/cm 2 , 617±60 mg/cm 2 and 678±163 mg/cm 2 , respectively. (orig.)

Histological evaluation of lung cancer with T2-weighted magnetic resonance images

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ohta, Takashi; Matsuura, Yoshifumi; Shioya, Sumie; Ohta, Yasuyo

1995-01-01

We investigated the differences in signal intensity of lung cancer tissue and non-cancerous lung tissues on T 2 -weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images. MR images were obtained from patients with squamous cell carcinoma (n=6), adenocarcinoma (n=5), small cell carcinoma (n=5), and large cell carcinoma (n=1). To compare the MR signal intensity between tissues, we calculated the signal intensity ratios for tumor/skeletal muscle and lung/skeletal muscle. The MR signal intensity for each tissue was measured with a densitometer and T 2 -weighted MR images with a similar window and a center. The value of the signal intensity ratio for squamous cell carcinoma (3.26±0.76) was greater than those for adenocarcinoma (1.99±0.50, p<0.05), small cell carcinoma (2.35±0.60), large cell carcinoma (2.46), and non-cancerous lung tissues (1.70±0.68, p<0.02). The values of the MR signal intensity ratio for non-cancerous lung tissues were 2.00 for a collapsed lung, 0.93 for a fibrotic lung, and 2.18 for a fibrotic lung with obstructive pneumonia. The results suggest that the MR signal intensity ratio for pathologic tissues/normal skeletal muscle can be a useful indicator for qualitative and quantitative MR imaging diagnosis. (author)

Agarose gel electrophoresis of cerebrospinal fluid proteins of dogs after sample concentration using a membrane microconcentrator technique.

Science.gov (United States)

Gama, Fernanda Gomes Velasque; Santana, Aureo Evangelista; Filho, Eugênio de Campos; Nogueira, Cláudia Aparecida da Silva

2007-03-01

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is produced in the cerebral ventricles through ultrafiltration of plasma and active transport mechanisms. Evaluation of proteins in CSF may provide important information about the production of immunoglobulins within the central nervous system as well as possible disturbances in the blood-brain barrier. The objective of this study was to measure the concentration and fractions of protein in CSF samples using a membrane microconcentrator technique followed by electrophoresis, and to compare the protein fractions obtained with those in serum. CSF samples from 3 healthy dogs and 3 dogs with canine distemper virus infection were concentrated using a membrane microconcentrator having a 0.5 to 30,000 d nominal molecular weight limit (Ultrafree, Millipore, Billerica, MA, USA). Protein concentration was determined before and after concentration. Agarose gel electrophoresis was done on concentrated CSF samples, serum, and serial dilutions of one of the CSF samples. Electrophoretic bands were clearly identified in densitometer tracings in CSF samples with protein concentrations as low as 1.3 g/dL. The higher CSF protein concentration in dogs with distemper was mainly the result of increased albumin concentration. The microconcentrating method used in this study enables characterization of the main protein fractions in CSF by routine electrophoresis and may be useful for interpreting the underlying cause of changes in CSF protein concentrations.

Joint test rig for testing and calibrating of different methods of two-phase mass flow measurement

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reimann, J.; Demski, A.; Hahn, H.; Harten, U.; John, H.; Megerle, A.; Mueller, S.; Pawlak, L.; Wanner, E.

1977-01-01

The steam-water loop was completed by building in two throttling valves upstream of the mixing chamber. By producing steam by throttling the total mass flow may be increased up to 35% compared to the former method of operating the loop. Furthermore, throttling stabilizes the single phase mass flow measurement. The data aquisition system and computation of the reference values has been finished. The computer program contains the equations of state of steam/water and the calibration curves for all signal transducers. The 5 beam γ-densitometer has been finished mechanically and supplied with the electronics. First calibration tests are fully satisfactory. The instrumentation of the air-water loop completed. At low quality the mass fluxes are increased by a factor of 5 compared with the steam-water-loop. The regime of dispersed bubble flow is fully reached in the test section. To detect flow regimes air-water as well as in steam-water flow, a local impedance probe was used. In addition, the phase distribution across the channel could be detected by traversing the probe. The boundaries of the air-water flow regimes detected by the probe are in good correspondance with other investigations. For the first time, such experiments have been carried out in horizontal steam-water flow. The results indicate that the region of slug flow becomes smaller with increasing pressure. (orig./RW) [de

Resistance-driven bunching mode of an accelerated ion pulse

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, E.P.

1981-01-01

Amplification of a longitudinal perturbation of an ion pulse in a linear induction accelerator is calculated. The simplified accelerator model consists only of an applied field (E/sub a/), distributed gap impedance per meter (R) and beam-pipe capacity per meter (C). The beam is treated as a cold, one-dimensional fluid. It is found that normal mode frequencies are nearly real, with only a very small damping rate proportional to R. This result is valid for a general current profile and is not restricted to small R. However, the mode structure exhibits spatial amplification from pulse head to tail by the factor exp(RCLv/sub o//2), where L is pulse length and v 0 is drift velocity. This factor is very large for typical HIF parameters. An initially small disturbance, when expanded in terms of the normal modes, is found to oscillate with maximum amplitude proportional to the amplification factor. Unlike the analogous problem in a circular machine, linear growth is limited in amplitude bntegrating the void fraction profile and comparing the cross-sectionally averaged void fraction with direct measurements using two quick closing valves. Results on the calibration of combinations of full-flow turbine meters, Pitot tube rakes and gamma densitometers for measuring cross-sectionally averaged mass velocity in steady steam-water flow are presented. The results are interpreted ntation

Evaluation of tecniques for controlling UF6 release clouds in the GAT environmental chamber

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lux, C.J.

1982-01-01

Studies designed to characterize the reaction between UF 6 and atmospheric moisture, evaluate environmental variables of UF 6 cloud formation and ultimate cloud fate, and UF 6 release cloud control procedure have been conducted in the 1200 cu. ft. GAT environmental chamber. In earlier chamber experiments, 30 separate UF 6 release tests indicated that variations of atmospheric conditions and sample sizes had no significant effect on UO 2 F 2 particle size distribution, release cloud formation, or cloud settling rates. During the past year, numerous procedures have been evaluated for accelerating UF 6 cloud knockdown in a series of 37 environmental chamber releases. Knockdown procedures included: coarse water spray; air jet; steam spray (electrostatically charged and uncharged); carbon dioxide; Freon-12; fine water mist (uncharged); boric acid mist (charged and uncharged); and an ionized dry air stream. UF 6 hydrolysis cloud settling rates monitored by a laser/powermeter densitometer, indicated the relative effectiveness of various cloud knockdown techniques. Electrostatically charged boric acid/water mist, and electrostatically ionized dry air were both found to be very effective, knocking down the UO 2 F 2 release cloud particles in two to five minutes. Work to adapt these knockdown techniques for use under field conditions is continuing, taking into account recovery of the released uranium as well as nuclear criticality constraints

An evaluation of the subtraction photoshop software accuracy to detect minor changes in optical density by radiovisiography

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Talaeipour AR.

2004-06-01

Full Text Available Statement of Problem: Subtraction is a newly presented radiography technique to detect minor density"nchanges that are not visible by conventional radiography."nPurpose: The aim of this In-vitro study was to evaluate the efficacy of photoshop subtraction software for"ndetecting minor density changes between two dental images."nMaterials and Methods: In this research, five dried human mandibles were held in fixed position while thin"naluminium sheets were superimposed on each mandible on the 1th and 2nd molar teeth regions."nA reference image, without aluminium sheet placement, was obtained from each mandible subsequently series"nconsist of 20 images with aluminium sheets, ranging from 50p. to "5Q0"x were recorded by radiovisiography"n(RVG system. Initial images were subtracted from subsequent ones by Photoshop subtraction software. The"ndifference in density between the two images at the 1st and 2nd molar sites was related to the aluminium"nsheets. The optical density of aluminium sheets was determined by densitometer."nResults: In the present study, 6.6% of the optical density changes of the minimum aluminium thickness as"n300u. could be detected by photoshop software software."nConclusion: The findings of this study showed that the accuracy of photoshop subtraction software was equal"nto that of the conventional subtraction softwares. Additionally, the accuracy of this software was proved to be"nsuitable for clinical investigations of small localized changes in alveolar bone.

Maximizing precision and accuracy in quantitative autoradiographic determination of radiopharmaceutical distribution for dosimetry calculation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lear, J.L.; Mido, K.; Plotnick, J.; Muth, R.

1986-01-01

The authors developed operational equations which relate ranges of film darkening or optical density produced by exposures from autoradiograms to the ranges of radiopharmaceutical concentration contained in the autoradiograms. The equations were solved and used to define ranges of optical density which were optimal for precise determination of radiopharmaceutical concentration. The solutions indicated that in order to maximize precision in determination of tracer concentration, autoradiograms should be produced with images that are less dark than are typically considered pleasing to the eye. Based upon these observations, a solid state image analyzer was designed and developed for high spatial resolution, quantitative analysis of autoradiograms. The analyzer uses a linear array of charge-coupled devices (CCD's) which mechanically scans the autoradiograms. The images are digitalized into 512 x 512 or 1024 x 1024 pixels with 256 gray levels and directly mapped into memory. The system is therefore called a memory mapped, charge-coupled device scanner (MM-CCD). The images can be directly converted to represent tracer concentration or functional parameters and rapid region of interest analysis can be performed in single or multiple tracer studies. The performance of the system was compared to that of other commercially available image analyzers, rotating drum densitometers and video camera digitizers. Values of tracer concentration using the MM-CCD scanner were generally greater than twice as precise and accurate as from the other systems. 3 references, 4 figures, 3 tables

Mobile bone densitometry service in rural South Australia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tucker, K.N.; Schultz, C.G.; Chatterton, B.E.

1997-01-01

Full text: Twenty per cent of South Australia's population live rurally, with limited access to modern medical services. The Mobile Bone Densitometry Unit was established to address this problem. The Unit began in 1994 with cooperation from private industry. In fostering the service, many issues were addressed, including choice of appropriate sites; selection of a liaison person at each site; towing of the Unit; transportation and accommodation of staff; education of local health professionals and community members; promotion of the service to the community: and timely reporting of results to referring doctors. The scanner is an Hologic ODR-1000+ densitometer, housed in a 5.9 1.8 metre, 2200 kg caravan. It is necessary to reduce vibration and motion during travel, control the internal environment, and have an electrically clean power supply. Addressing these parameters result in the critical value for quality control being 2500 patients, averaging 13 patients/working day. The mean age of the patients was 64 y (range 30-90 y), with 93 % of patients being >50 y. Results show a normally distributed Z score, suggesting that non-selected 'normal' population is being studied and the Hologic normal range matches that of the South Australian rural community. Local communities have utilised the service to full capacity resulting in future visits being extended. In conclusion, it is possible to provide a high quality, reliable bone densitometry service to rural communities

Low-level dosimetry based on activation analysis of badge film, 1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Morikawa, Kaoru; Yamashita, Kazuya; Inamoto, Kazuo; Maeda, Masayuki; Sato, Takashi; Ono, Koichi.

1988-01-01

Underexposed badge film contains a minor quantity of silver which corresponds to the low radiation dose even after completion of the photographic densitometry ; however, it cannot be detected with a photographic densitometer. We intended to clarify the minor silver content based on radioactivation analysis with thermal neutrons at KUR (Kyoto University Research Reactor). The natural silver consists of two stable nuclides, i.e., 107 Ag and 109 Ag. These can be activated with irradiation of thermal neutrons to two radionuclides, i.e., 108 Ag and 110 Ag. In this paper, through the activation analysis of an underexposed badge film, methods of measurements are shown regarding both 108 Ag produced by the 107 Ag (n, γ) reaction and 110 Ag by the 109 Ag (n, γ). After underexposed badge films were irradiated with thermal neutrons, some gamma-rays emitted from the radionuclides in the activated films were measured with a high pure Ge detector or a NaI (Tl) scintillation detector. The following results were obtained: (1) several elements such as silver, iodine, gold, antimony, manganese and copper were detected by activation analyses of films exposed to low level 60 Co gamma-rays, (2) the exposure vs 108 Ag or 110 Ag activity curve was linear in the lower dose range of 60 Co gamma-rays. These data indicate that low level radiation doses, which is indeterminable by ordinary photographic densitometry, can be estimated by activation analysis of silver atoms in badge films. (author)

The study of the precision and accuracy of quality control in DXA bone mineral densitometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gong Jian; Xu Hao

2005-01-01

Objective: To study the precision and accuracy of quality control (QC) in dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) bone mineral densitometry so as to raise the reliability and necessity of the results. Methods: 1) Short-term precision trial: 30 people and 30 SD male rats were chosen, and a precision trail was performed. Each people was scanned twice and reposited in next study. The precision and the least significant change (LSC) of each examinated region were calculated. The short-term precision trail of the rats was performed in the similar way. 2) Accuracy trial: measured the body phantom supplied by factor daily, and compared the results with real value, then calculated the accuracy and correction factor. A Shewhart chart was set up based on average values. Results: 1) People's coefficient of variation (CV) and LSC in the lumbar and proximal femur were 0.7%-2.2% and 0.018-0.048 g/cm 2 . Rats' whole body short-term precision was 0.9%. 2) The average accuracy of DXA densitometer was -0.81%, the correction factor was 0.992. The average bone mineral density measured in successive 25 d was 1.244 g/cm 2 , the standard deviation (SD) was 0.008. Conclusion: The precision and accuracy trail can help to get the information about the working state of the instrument and to analyze the measured results, and can effectively raise the reliability of the measure. (authors)

Spatial distribution of Guaiacum sanctum (Zygophyllaceae seedlings and saplings relative to canopy cover in Palo Verde National Park, Costa Rica

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Eric J. Fuchs

2013-09-01

Full Text Available The spatial distribution of individuals is a fundamental property of most species and constitutes essential information for the development of restoration and conservation strategies, especially for endangered plant species. In this paper we describe the spatial distribution of different size classes of the endangered tropical tree Guaiacum sanctum and the effect of canopy cover on spatial aggregation. Adult G. sanctum were located and mapped in a 50ha plot in Palo Verde National Park, Costa Rica. Seedlings, saplings and juveniles were mapped to the nearest centimetre and permanently marked in three 50x50m subplots. Within each subplot spatial aggregation was assessed using Ripley’s K statistic and canopy opening readings were performed every 5m using a densitometer. Kriging spatial interpolation and Monte Carlo simulations were used to determine if average canopy cover differed among size classes. Individuals of G. sanctum were spatially aggregated at all size classes with seedlings being the most frequent size class in all subplots. Seedlings were found predominantly in areas with significantly higher canopy cover. In contrast, juveniles were more likely found in areas with higher light availability. The high number of seedlings, saplings, and juveniles relative to adults suggests that populations of G. sanctum in PVNP are expanding. Light availability and canopy structure are important factors shaping the spatial distribution of this species. The contemporary demographic structure of G. sanctum is dependent on forest gap dynamics and changes in human disturbance during the past 25 years.

Age-predicted values for lumbar spine, proximal femur, and whole-body bone mineral density: results from a population of normal children aged 3 to 18 years

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Webber, C.E. [Hamilton Health Sciences, Dept. of Nuclear Medicine, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); McMaster Univ., Dept. of Radiology, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada)]. E-mail: webber@hhsc.ca; Beaumont, L.F. [Hamilton Health Sciences, Dept. of Nuclear Medicine, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); Morrison, J. [McMaster Children' s Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); Sala, A. [McMaster Children' s Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); McMaster Univ., Dept. of Pediatrics, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); Univ. of Milan-Bicocca, Monza (Italy); Barr, R.D. [McMaster Children' s Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada); McMaster Univ., Dept. of Pediatrics, Hamilton, Ontario (Canada)

2007-02-15

We measured areal bone mineral density (BMD) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the lumbar spine and the proximal femur and for the total body in 179 subjects (91 girls and 88 boys) with no known disorders that might affect calcium metabolism. Results are also reported for lumbar spine bone mineral content (BMC) and for the derived variable, bone mineral apparent density (BMAD). Expected-for-age values for each variable were derived for boys and girls by using an expression that represented the sum of a steady increase due to growth plus a rapid increase associated with puberty. Normal ranges were derived by assuming that at least 95% of children would be included within 1.96 population standard deviations (SD) of the expected-for-age value. The normal range for lumbar spine BMD derived from our population of children was compared with previously published normal ranges based on results obtained from different bone densitometers in diverse geographic locations. The extent of agreement between the various normal ranges indicates that the derived expressions can be used for reporting routine spine, femur, and whole-body BMD measurements in children and adolescents. The greatest difference in expected-for-age values among the various studies was that arising from intermanufacturer variability. The application of published conversion factors derived from DXA measurements in adults did not account fully for these differences, especially in younger children. (author)

Subcutaneous administration of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II/IGF binding protein-2 complex stimulates bone formation and prevents loss of bone mineral density in a rat model of disuse osteoporosis

Science.gov (United States)

Conover, Cheryl A.; Johnstone, Edward W.; Turner, Russell T.; Evans, Glenda L.; John Ballard, F. John; Doran, Patrick M.; Khosla, Sundeep

2002-01-01

Elevated serum levels of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) and a precursor form of IGF-II are associated with marked increases in bone formation and skeletal mass in patients with hepatitis C-associated osteosclerosis. In vitro studies indicate that IGF-II in complex with IGFBP-2 has high affinity for bone matrix and is able to stimulate osteoblast proliferation. The purpose of this study was to determine the ability of the IGF-II/IGFBP-2 complex to increase bone mass in vivo. Osteopenia of the femur was induced by unilateral sciatic neurectomy in rats. At the time of surgery, 14-day osmotic minipumps containing vehicle or 2 microg IGF-II+9 microg IGFBP-2/100g body weight/day were implanted subcutaneously in the neck. Bone mineral density (BMD) measurements were taken the day of surgery and 14 days later using a PIXImus small animal densitometer. Neurectomy of the right hindlimb resulted in a 9% decrease in right femur BMD (Ploss in BMD was completely prevented by treatment with IGF-II/IGFBP-2. On the control limb, there was no loss of BMD over the 14 days and IGF-II/IGFBP-2 treatment resulted in a 9% increase in left femur BMD (Ploss of BMD associated with disuse osteoporosis and stimulate bone formation in adult rats. Furthermore, they provide proof of concept for a novel anabolic approach to increasing bone mass in humans with osteoporosis.

Rapid determination of fluorine in the pulp process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ivanenko, V.V.; Kustov, V.N.; Levitskaya, O.N.

1994-01-01

The control of enrichment of mineral raw materials in order to increase the yield of enriched minerals is an important problem of modern industry. A possible solution is an automatic control system (ACS), which makes possible the monitoring and optimization of the enrichment. In terms of future applications, the nuclear-physical analysis, which is based on the use of a radionuclide source of neutrons, is a promising method. The advantages of this method (high rate, the possibility of performing the analysis directly in the flow, high accuracy, and high sensitivity) make themselves evident in the determination of short-lived isotopes, such as F, Ag, Si, Al, V, etc. Both an instrumental complex and a method for the rapid neutron activation determination (RNAD) of fluorine in the pulp flow of the enrichment process of raw materials were developed at the Institute of Chemistry, Far East Division, Russian Academy of Sciences. The analytical complex for RNAD comprises an activator; a densitometer; a pump; a pulp-feed system; a gamma-ray detector; a data acquisition apparatus; and a computer for processing the input/output data and controlling the analysis. The authors found that the RNAD of fluorine using radionuclide Pu-Be sources allows the determination in a 6-L pulp under recirculation conditions with an error of less than 1% in 3-5 minutes. The method allows the routine monitoring of the enrichment process of mineral raw materials

Effect of nitroimidazoles on glucose utilization and lactate accumulation in mouse brain

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chao, C.F.; Subjeck, J.R.; Brody, H.; Shen, J.; Johnson, R.J.R.

1984-01-01

The radiation sensitizers misonidazole (MISO) and desmethylmisonidazole (DMM) can produce central and peripheral neuropathy in patients and laboratory animals. Nitroimidazoles can also interfere with glycolysis in vitro under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. In the present work, the authors studied the effect of MISO or DMM on lactate production and glucose utilization in mouse brain. It is observed that these compounds result in a 25% inhibition of lactate production in brain slices relative to the control at a 10 mM level. Additionally, MISO (1.0 mg/g/day) or DMM (1.4 mg/g/day) were administered daily (oral) for 1, 4, 7, or 14 days to examine the effect of these two drugs on the regional glucose utilization in C3Hf mouse brain. Five microcuries of 2-deoxy[ 14 C]glucose was given following the last drug dose and autoradiographs of serial brain sections were made and analyzed by a densitometer. Following a single dose of either MISO or DMM, no significant differences in glucose uptake were observed when compared with controls. However, following 4, 7, and 14 doses the rate of glucose utilization was significantly reduced in the intoxicated animals. Larger reductions were measured in specific regions including the posterior colliculus, cochlear nuclei, vestibular nuclei, and pons with increasing effects observed at later stages. These results share a degree of correspondence with the regional brain pathology produced by these nitroimidazoles

Research and development of safeguards measures for the large scale reprocessing plant

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kikuchi, Masahiro; Sato, Yuji; Yokota, Yasuhiro; Masuda, Shoichiro; Kobayashi, Isao; Uchikoshi, Seiji; Tsutaki, Yasuhiro; Nidaira, Kazuo [Nuclear Material Control Center, Tokyo (Japan)

1994-12-31

The Government of Japan agreed on the safeguards concepts of commercial size reprocessing plant under the bilateral agreement for cooperation between the Japan and the United States. In addition, the LASCAR, that is the forum of large scale reprocessing plant safeguards, could obtain the fruitful results in the spring of 1992. The research and development of safeguards measures for the Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant should be progressed with every regard to the concepts described in both documents. Basically, the material accountancy and monitoring system should be established, based on the NRTA and other measures in order to obtain the timeliness goal for plutonium, and the un-attended mode inspection approach based on the integrated containment/surveillance system coupled with radiation monitoring in order to reduce the inspection efforts. NMCC has been studying on the following measures for a large scale reprocessing plant safeguards (1) A radiation gate monitor and integrated surveillance system (2) A near real time Shipper and Receiver Difference monitoring (3) A near real time material accountancy system operated for the bulk handling area (4) A volume measurement technique in a large scale input accountancy vessel (5) An in-process inventory estimation technique applied to the process equipment such as the pulse column and evaporator (6) Solution transfer monitoring approach applied to buffer tanks in the chemical process (7) A timely analysis technique such as a hybrid K edge densitometer operated in the on-site laboratory (J.P.N.).

Development of automatic high-concentration boron measurement technique; Konodo hoso jido sokutei gijutsu no kaihatsu

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Maeda, T.; Honda, S.; Ito, A. [Kyushu Electric Power Co. Inc., Fukuoka (Japan)

1997-03-01

The technology that can automatically measure the boron concentration in boric acid water was developed. A high-concentration boric acid solution must be held at a high temperature to prevent the deposition. Skill and precision ({plus_minus}0.2 to 0.3% for 10 to 2500 ppm as boron concentration, and {plus_minus}2 to 3% for 2500 to 25,000 ppm) are required to analyze the boric acid solution manually. In theory, the boron concentration in a wide range can be measured, and boron has a constant-temperature function. A density hydrometer method that facilitates the treatment and calibration in high precision and at low cost was chosen. The vibration period generated when vibration is given to the solution specimen put in a U-tube is higher as the density is lower. On the basis of this theory, the density of a specimen can be obtained according to the relation with the same data of the known-concentration boric acid water. The high-concentration boric acid water that cannot be measured by the existing boron densitometer can be measured directly. It can also be measured in a low-concentration area. The technique can be used in a laboratory as the simplified method that is replaced by the current manual analysis. The reduction effect of analytical chemical`s waste liquid can also be expected. In the electric power industry, automated equipment is required for high efficiency and labor saving. 13 figs., 3 tabs.

Recognizing Banknote Fitness with a Visible Light One Dimensional Line Image Sensor

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Tuyen Danh Pham

2015-08-01

Full Text Available In general, dirty banknotes that have creases or soiled surfaces should be replaced by new banknotes, whereas clean banknotes should be recirculated. Therefore, the accurate classification of banknote fitness when sorting paper currency is an important and challenging task. Most previous research has focused on sensors that used visible, infrared, and ultraviolet light. Furthermore, there was little previous research on the fitness classification for Indian paper currency. Therefore, we propose a new method for classifying the fitness of Indian banknotes, with a one-dimensional line image sensor that uses only visible light. The fitness of banknotes is usually determined by various factors such as soiling, creases, and tears, etc. although we just consider banknote soiling in our research. This research is novel in the following four ways: first, there has been little research conducted on fitness classification for the Indian Rupee using visible-light images. Second, the classification is conducted based on the features extracted from the regions of interest (ROIs, which contain little texture. Third, 1-level discrete wavelet transformation (DWT is used to extract the features for discriminating between fit and unfit banknotes. Fourth, the optimal DWT features that represent the fitness and unfitness of banknotes are selected based on linear regression analysis with ground-truth data measured by densitometer. In addition, the selected features are used as the inputs to a support vector machine (SVM for the final classification of banknote fitness. Experimental results showed that our method outperforms other methods.

Recognizing Banknote Fitness with a Visible Light One Dimensional Line Image Sensor.

Science.gov (United States)

Pham, Tuyen Danh; Park, Young Ho; Kwon, Seung Yong; Nguyen, Dat Tien; Vokhidov, Husan; Park, Kang Ryoung; Jeong, Dae Sik; Yoon, Sungsoo

2015-08-27

In general, dirty banknotes that have creases or soiled surfaces should be replaced by new banknotes, whereas clean banknotes should be recirculated. Therefore, the accurate classification of banknote fitness when sorting paper currency is an important and challenging task. Most previous research has focused on sensors that used visible, infrared, and ultraviolet light. Furthermore, there was little previous research on the fitness classification for Indian paper currency. Therefore, we propose a new method for classifying the fitness of Indian banknotes, with a one-dimensional line image sensor that uses only visible light. The fitness of banknotes is usually determined by various factors such as soiling, creases, and tears, etc. although we just consider banknote soiling in our research. This research is novel in the following four ways: first, there has been little research conducted on fitness classification for the Indian Rupee using visible-light images. Second, the classification is conducted based on the features extracted from the regions of interest (ROIs), which contain little texture. Third, 1-level discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) is used to extract the features for discriminating between fit and unfit banknotes. Fourth, the optimal DWT features that represent the fitness and unfitness of banknotes are selected based on linear regression analysis with ground-truth data measured by densitometer. In addition, the selected features are used as the inputs to a support vector machine (SVM) for the final classification of banknote fitness. Experimental results showed that our method outperforms other methods.

Comparison between wire mesh sensor and gamma densitometry void measurements in two-phase flows

Science.gov (United States)

Sharaf, S.; Da Silva, M.; Hampel, U.; Zippe, C.; Beyer, M.; Azzopardi, B.

2011-10-01

Wire mesh sensors (WMS) are fast imaging instruments that are used for gas-liquid and liquid-liquid two-phase flow measurements and experimental investigations. Experimental tests were conducted at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf to test both the capacitance and conductance WMS against a gamma densitometer (GD). A small gas-liquid test facility was utilized. This consisted of a vertical round pipe approximately 1 m in length, and 50 mm internal diameter. A 16 × 16 WMS was used with high spatial and temporal resolutions. Air-deionized water was the two-phase mixture. The gas superficial velocity was varied between 0.05 m s-1 and 1.4 m s-1 at two liquid velocities of 0.2 and 0.7 m s-1. The GD consisted of a collimated source and a collimated detector. The GD was placed on a moving platform close to the plane of wires of the sensor, in order to align it accurately using a counter mechanism, with each of the wires of the WMS, and the platform could scan the full section of the pipe. The WMS was operated as a conductivity WMS for a half-plane with eight wires and as a capacitance WMS for the other half. For the cross-sectional void (time and space averaged), along each wire, there was good agreement between WMS and the GD chordal void fraction near the centre of the pipe.

Comparison between wire mesh sensor and gamma densitometry void measurements in two-phase flows

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sharaf, S; Azzopardi, B; Da Silva, M; Hampel, U; Zippe, C; Beyer, M

2011-01-01

Wire mesh sensors (WMS) are fast imaging instruments that are used for gas–liquid and liquid–liquid two-phase flow measurements and experimental investigations. Experimental tests were conducted at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf to test both the capacitance and conductance WMS against a gamma densitometer (GD). A small gas–liquid test facility was utilized. This consisted of a vertical round pipe approximately 1 m in length, and 50 mm internal diameter. A 16 × 16 WMS was used with high spatial and temporal resolutions. Air–deionized water was the two-phase mixture. The gas superficial velocity was varied between 0.05 m s −1 and 1.4 m s −1 at two liquid velocities of 0.2 and 0.7 m s −1 . The GD consisted of a collimated source and a collimated detector. The GD was placed on a moving platform close to the plane of wires of the sensor, in order to align it accurately using a counter mechanism, with each of the wires of the WMS, and the platform could scan the full section of the pipe. The WMS was operated as a conductivity WMS for a half-plane with eight wires and as a capacitance WMS for the other half. For the cross-sectional void (time and space averaged), along each wire, there was good agreement between WMS and the GD chordal void fraction near the centre of the pipe

IMMUNOMODULATOR EFFECT OF COMBINATION OF Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f. Nees HERB AND GINGER RHIZOME (Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb. ETHANOLIC EXTRACT ON CELL PROLIFERATION OF Balb/c MICE LYMPHOCYTES IN VITRO

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Damriati Azimah

2016-12-01

Full Text Available Our susceptibility to various infectious diseases can be avoided by increasing the specific immune responses either by the proliferation of lymphocytes. Immunomodulator effect of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f. Nees and Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb have been well evaluated. Empirically, the East Borneo’s tribe combined both herbs to treat jaundice disease. However, scientific evidence is still needed in their use as a drug candidate. This study explores further effect of the immunomodulator from 5 ethanol extract groups. Quantitative analysis was also completed using a densitometer to obtain andrographolide and curcumin levels of ethanol extract. Lymphocyte proliferation was tested by using MTT colorimetric method, the results was read by an ELISA reader and statistically analyzed with One-Way ANOVA test with 95 % of confidence level. The maceration yield of sambiloto ethanol extract (EES and temulawak ethanol extract (EET were respectively 5.78 % w / w and 3.92 % w / w. The results of quantitative analysis in 28.6 mg EES contained 11.43 % andrographolide and from the 251.8 mg EET contained 28.79 % curcumin. From the MTT test, all treatment groups were significantly different from the control group. Based on the OD values, the best combination to increase lymphocyte cell proliferation ETS was a group contained 56.25 mg of temulawak and 18.75 mg of sambiloto in 1 ml of solvent. Nonetheless, the value was not higher than the ability of ET in increasing cell proliferation.

Age-predicted values for lumbar spine, proximal femur, and whole-body bone mineral density: results from a population of normal children aged 3 to 18 years

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Webber, C.E.; Beaumont, L.F.; Morrison, J.; Sala, A.; Barr, R.D.

2007-01-01

We measured areal bone mineral density (BMD) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the lumbar spine and the proximal femur and for the total body in 179 subjects (91 girls and 88 boys) with no known disorders that might affect calcium metabolism. Results are also reported for lumbar spine bone mineral content (BMC) and for the derived variable, bone mineral apparent density (BMAD). Expected-for-age values for each variable were derived for boys and girls by using an expression that represented the sum of a steady increase due to growth plus a rapid increase associated with puberty. Normal ranges were derived by assuming that at least 95% of children would be included within 1.96 population standard deviations (SD) of the expected-for-age value. The normal range for lumbar spine BMD derived from our population of children was compared with previously published normal ranges based on results obtained from different bone densitometers in diverse geographic locations. The extent of agreement between the various normal ranges indicates that the derived expressions can be used for reporting routine spine, femur, and whole-body BMD measurements in children and adolescents. The greatest difference in expected-for-age values among the various studies was that arising from intermanufacturer variability. The application of published conversion factors derived from DXA measurements in adults did not account fully for these differences, especially in younger children. (author)

Digital image analyser for autoradiography

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Muth, R.A.; Plotnick, J.

1985-01-01

The most critical parameter in quantitative autoradiography for assay of tissue concentrations of tracers is the ability to obtain precise and accurate measurements of optical density of the images. Existing high precision systems for image analysis, rotating drum densitometers, are expensive, suffer from mechanical problems and are slow. More moderately priced and reliable video camera based systems are available, but their outputs generally do not have the uniformity and stability necessary for high resolution quantitative autoradiography. The authors have designed and constructed an image analyser optimized for quantitative single and multiple tracer autoradiography which the authors refer to as a memory-mapped charged-coupled device scanner (MM-CCD). The input is from a linear array of CCD's which is used to optically scan the autoradiograph. Images are digitized into 512 x 512 picture elements with 256 gray levels and the data is stored in buffer video memory in less than two seconds. Images can then be transferred to RAM memory by direct memory-mapping for further processing. Arterial blood curve data and optical density-calibrated standards data can be entered and the optical density images can be converted automatically to tracer concentration or functional images. In double tracer studies, images produced from both exposures can be stored and processed in RAM to yield ''pure'' individual tracer concentration or functional images. Any processed image can be transmitted back to the buffer memory to be viewed on a monitor and processed for region of interest analysis

Design and construction of a computerized optical densitometer for X-ray films; Diseno y construccion de un densitometro optico computarizado para peliculas de rayos-X

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vicuna V, H.G.; Picon C, C.; Zaharia B, M. [Instituto de Enfermedades Neoplasicas, Departamento de Radioterapia, Servicio de Fisica, Av. Angamos Este 2520, Lima 34 (Peru)

1998-12-31

In Radiotherapy Departments, where it is disposed of radiation units, these require of a control quality of their parameters as: dose in depth, real size, symmetry and levelling of the radiation field. In order to fulfil above it was designed and built a totally automated system for scanning and analysing the X-ray films or plates, which serve to have the parameter information to be measured. (Author)

Analysis of Scan Records with a Recording Densitometer - The ''Re-Scanner''; Etude d'un Grand Collimateur a Focalisation et Fort Pouvoir de Resolution: Resultats; Analiz skenogramm s pomoshch'yu registriruyushchego densitometra - ''re-skenner''; Diseno y Funcionamiento de un Gran Colimador Enfocado de Alto Poder de Resolucion

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Harris, C. C.; Bell, P. R.; Satterfield, M. M.; Ross, D. A.; Jordan, J. C. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, TN (United States)

1964-10-15

The impact of improvements in scanning equipment has not been fully felt at the clinical level, largely because of deficiencies in scan recording. In an attempt to improve visualization and contrast in scan records, various instrumental methods of analysis have been devised. We have devised a simple and comparatively inexpensive recording densitometer for ''re-scanning'' scan records. A light-sensor scans the record just as a scanner scans a patient. The output of the device is a pulse rate proportional to the opacity (or transmission) of the record, and may be used to make a new, or ''re-scan'', record. The area of the record over which information is integrated is set by sensor aperture. The wide range of output pulse-rates (zero to 15 000 parts/s) causes large and adjustable contrast amplification. A threshold control provides any ''cut-off level'' of choice. Operation is rapid, and a record can be re-scanned in a small fraction of the time required to obtain the original record. Studies on clinical scans of almost every organ or area of interest show that the re-scanner reveals information not at first evident in original scan records. It has been particularly useful in determining the statistical significance of small variations in counting rate in a scan record. In scan records of large dynamic range where no single cut-off level satisfactorily shows all regions of interest, re-scans at several cut-off levels were once necessary. A two-region sensor, that views a region of the record around the field of view of the main sensor, has been used in an attempt to overcome this difficulty. At least three modes of operation are possible with the two-region sensor: (1) ''normal'' operation; (2) ignoring general record density and responding only to small variations, thus setting its own cut-off level; and (3) reporting only abrupt changes in record density. Other modes seem to be possible. This relatively simple and inexpensive device is proving to be of valuable

The influences of bowel condition with lumbar spine BMD measurement

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yoon, Joon; Lee, Hoo Min; Lee, Jung Min; Kwon, Soon Mu; Cho, Hyung Wook [Dept. of Radiologic Technology, Dongnam Health College, Suwon (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Yun Min; Kang, Yeong Han; Kim, Boo Soon; Kim, Jung Soo [Dept. of Diagonostic Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)

2014-12-15

Bone density measurement use of diagnosis of osteoporosis and it is an important indicator for treatment as well as prevention. But errors in degree of precision of BMD can be occurred by status of patient, bone densitometer and radiological technologist. Therefore the author evaluated that how BMD changes according to the condition of the patient. As Lumbar region, which could lead to substantial effects on bone density by diverse factors such as the water, food, intentional bowels. We recognized a change of bone mineral density in accordance with the height of the water tank and in the presence or absence of the gas using the Aluminum Spine Phantom. We also figured out the influence of bone mineral density by increasing the water and food into a target on the volunteers. Measured bone mineral density through Aluminum Spine Phantom had statistically significant difference accordance with increasing the height of water tank(p=0.026). There was no significant difference in BMD according to the existence of the bowl gas(p=0.587). There was no significant difference in a study of six people targeted volunteers in the presence or absence of the food(p=0.812). And also there was no significant difference according to the existence of water(p=0.618). If it is not difficult to recognize the surround of bone in measuring BMD of lumbar bone, it is not the factor which has the great effect on bone mineral density whether the test is after endoscopic examination of large intestine and patient’s fast or not.

The influences of bowel condition with lumbar spine BMD measurement

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoon, Joon; Lee, Hoo Min; Lee, Jung Min; Kwon, Soon Mu; Cho, Hyung Wook; Kim, Yun Min; Kang, Yeong Han; Kim, Boo Soon; Kim, Jung Soo

2014-01-01

Bone density measurement use of diagnosis of osteoporosis and it is an important indicator for treatment as well as prevention. But errors in degree of precision of BMD can be occurred by status of patient, bone densitometer and radiological technologist. Therefore the author evaluated that how BMD changes according to the condition of the patient. As Lumbar region, which could lead to substantial effects on bone density by diverse factors such as the water, food, intentional bowels. We recognized a change of bone mineral density in accordance with the height of the water tank and in the presence or absence of the gas using the Aluminum Spine Phantom. We also figured out the influence of bone mineral density by increasing the water and food into a target on the volunteers. Measured bone mineral density through Aluminum Spine Phantom had statistically significant difference accordance with increasing the height of water tank(p=0.026). There was no significant difference in BMD according to the existence of the bowl gas(p=0.587). There was no significant difference in a study of six people targeted volunteers in the presence or absence of the food(p=0.812). And also there was no significant difference according to the existence of water(p=0.618). If it is not difficult to recognize the surround of bone in measuring BMD of lumbar bone, it is not the factor which has the great effect on bone mineral density whether the test is after endoscopic examination of large intestine and patient’s fast or not

A Simple Procedure to Evaluate Competitiveness of Toxigenic and Atoxigenic Isolates of Aspergillus flavus in Solid and Liquid Media

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mohammad Moradi

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Application of atoxigenic strains of Aspergillus flavus to reduce aflatoxin levels is the most successful strategy applied in some agricultural crops. The role of ammonium hydroxide for preliminary screening of the competitiveness of atoxigenic A. flavus isolates to interfere with aflatoxin production by highly toxigenic isolates were evaluated. Out of 270 A. flavus isolates, 17 were detected as true atoxigenic using cultural methods and confirmed by analytical assays from different pistachio agro-ecological zones during 2013. For assessment competitive ability among atoxigenic isolates of A. flavus with highly toxigenic one, rice flour, coconut agar and coconut broth medium substrates were inoculated with mixtures including combinations of toxigenic and atoxigenic isolates, simultaneously. The rice flour substrate was used to quantify the content of aflatoxin in either co-inoculations or toxigenic isolate alone on thin layer chromatography plates with a scanning densitometer. While the culture media were used to determine the intensity of color change on exposing to ammonium hydroxide vapor. The reduction rates of aflatoxin B1 in co-inoculations were varied and ranged from 2%-82%. Based on the intensity of colony color changes, the competitiveness of the isolates was classified into five groups. Atoxigenic isolates with high competitiveness have shown low color changes in culture media and high aflatoxin reduction in TLC assays with a ratio of higher than 78%. The method will facilitate preliminary screening of efficient atoxigenic isolates for mitigation of aflatoxins in food and feed as a cheap, simple and quick method.

Study of whole-body bone mineral density measurement in 6 to 19 year-old students in Beijing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu Jiachang; Ouyang Qiaohong; Zhang Jin; Liu Qing; Teng Xiaomei

2003-01-01

Objective: To observe the changes of bone mineral density (BMD) in young boys and girls from 6-19 years old in Beijing area. Methods: 1139 healthy young boys and girls undergoing whole body scanning with dual energy X-ray bone densitometer were divided into different groups according to sex and age. Results: There were no significant difference in body height, weight, BMD and bone mineral contents (BMC) between boys and girls from 6 to 10 years old. The annual growth rates of body height, BMD, and BMC were the fastest in girls from 6 to 14 and boys from 6 to 16 years old, respectively. Thereafter, the annual growth rates of body height, BMD, and BMC didn't significantly increase in boys and girls. There were two fast-growth periods in BMD growth stage, being at 11 and 14 years old in girls, and at 12 and 15 years old in boys. The total body BMD was significantly correlated with the height in girls under 12 years (P < 0.001, r = 0.485-0.575) and in boys under 14 years (P < 0.01-0.001, r=0.402-0.814). Afterwards, no marked correlation was found between BMD and the height in various groups. Nevertheless, the body weight was always markedly correlated with BMD in boys and girls (P < 0.001, r=0.654-0.864). Conclusions: The body height and BMD in young boys and girls had their own characteristics, and the important growth periods were under 14 years in girls and under 16 years in boys

Study of relation between Neck Shaft Angle (NSA and mineral density of the femoral head among old post menopausal women in east part of mazandaran province

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Majid Malekzadeh Shafaroudi

2016-09-01

Full Text Available Background: Diversity in Proximal Femur Geometric Parameters (PFGPs will be led to frequency changes in hip fractures. The purpose of the present study is to investigate of the relation between Bone Mineral Density (BMD in proximal femur with Neck Shaft Angle (NSA in both of osteoporotic and normal groups among old postmenopausal women in eastern part of Mazandaran province as a appropriate indicator to predict hip fractures occurance. Materials and Methods: Among 5103 postmenopausal women reffered to bone densitometry center, for 221 postmenopausal women who had inclusion criteria to this study, simultaneously by using densitometry system and completing a standard questionnaire, history of disease and demographic information including body mass index (BMI were recorded for each patient. Obtained information from densitometers was analyzed by the statistical software SPSS version 16 and Pearson correlation coefficient test was used. Results: Geometric parameters of 221 post-menopausal women aged 50 to 60 were analyzed. The mean of neck shaft angle (NSA were recorded for osteoporotic group 121.55 and for control group 121.44. Pearson correlation coefficient t-test results showed a negative significant correlation between mineral density in the femoral neck in osteoporotic group and NSA (P<0.05. Considering the effect of weight and BMI in strength and bone density in the femoral neck, the mean of BMI and weight in osteoporotic group was lower compared to control group. Conclusion: according to the findings of this study, NSA is effective in predicting of the proximal femur BMD in osteoporotic group.

Monitoring gas retention and slurry transport during the transfer of waste from Tank 241-C-106 to Tank 241-AY-102

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stewart, C.W.; Erian, F.F.; Meyer, P.A.

1997-07-01

The retained gas volume can be estimated by several methods. All of these methods have significant uncertainties, but together they form a preponderance of evidence that describes the gas retention behavior of the tank. The methods are (1) an increase in nonconvective layer thickness; (2) a waste surface level rise (surface level effect [SLE] model); (3) the barometric pressure effect (BPE model); (4) direct void measurement; and (5) the consequences of the transfer process. The nonconvective layer thickness can be determined with sufficient accuracy to describe the overall waste configuration by means of temperature profiles or densitometer indications. However, the presence of a nonconvective layer does not necessarily indicate significant gas retention, and small changes in layer thickness that could quantify gas retention cannot be detected reliably with the methods available. The primary value of this measurement is in establishing the actual open-quotes fluffing factorclose quotes for thermal calculations. Surface level rise is not a useful measure of gas retention in Tank 241-C-106 (C-106) since the waste level fluctuates with regular makeup water additions. In Tank 241-AY-102 (AY-102) with the existing ventilation system it should be possible to determine the gas retention rate within 30-60% uncertainty from the surface level rise, should a significant rise be observed. The planned ventilation system upgrades in AY- 102 will greatly reduce the exhaust flow and the headspace humidity, and the evaporation rate should be significantly lower when transfers begin. This could reduce the uncertainty in gas retention rate estimates to around ± 10%

Studies of osteoporosis in Russia using isotope-related techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zaichick, V.; Shavladze, Z.; Morozov, V.; Burdygina, N.; Kolotov, V.; Dogadkin, N.

2002-01-01

The peak and age losses of bone mineral density (BMD) among residents of Moscow and Obninsk (Russia) were determined using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). The correlations between BMD and such individual parameters (in accordance with the WHO questionnaire) as weight, height, family history, life style including physical activity, smoking, milk intake, etc. were assessed. BMD of lumbar spine and femoral neck of 466 healthy subjects (233 females and 333 males) aged from 15 to 55 years were examined by Lunar DPX-L. bone densitometer. The concentrations of Ca, P, Mg, Sr, Na, Cl, K, Mn, Fe, and Zn in bone samples (iliac crest, femoral neck and rib) were measured using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) with short- and long-lived radionuclides. The highest level of spinal BMD among females was 1.205 g/cm 2 and 1.298 g/cm 2 among males. This was achieved at 25-34 years and 25-29 years, respectively. The highest level of femoral neck BMD among females was 1.045 g/cm 2 and 1.165 g/cm 2 among males. This was achieved at 15-19 years and 20-29 years, respectively. The obtained mean contents of Ca, Cl, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P and Zn in bone agree well with medians of the mean values of reference data. The exclusion is the content of Sr. In average the bone concentrations of Sr are about 3-fold higher than the median of mean values obtained by other researchers. (author)

[Dietary patterns in college freshmen and its relation to bone mineral density].

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Sufang; Mu, Min; Zhao, Yan; Wang, Xiaoqin; Shu, Long; Li, Qingyan; Li, Yingchun

2012-07-01

In order to investigate the bone density of freshmen, and to analyze the association between dietary pattern and bone mineral density (BMD). A questionnaire survey on the situation of dietary pattern was conducted in 1414 freshmen. Effective dietary survey questionnaires and bone mineral density measurements were completed for 1319 participants. Bone mass was assessed by using an Ultrasound Bone Densitometer on the right calcaneus (CM-200, Furuno Electric Corporation, Japan), and the speed of sound (SOS, m/s) was used as an indicator for bone density. Factor analysis with varimax rotation was used to identify the dietary patterns. After adjusting for confounders, covariance with Bonferroni's was used to further examine the associations between dietary patterns and bone mineral density (BMD). (1) Four major dietary patterns were noticed. Western food pattern (high consumption in hamburger, fried food, nuts, biscuit, chocolate, cola, coffee, sugars). Animal protein pattern (high consumption in pork, mutton, beef, poultry meat, animal liver). Calcium pattern (high consumption in fresh fruits, eggs, fish and shrimps, kelp laver and sea fish, milk and dairy products, beans and bean products). Traditional Chinese pattern (high consumption in rice and grain, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, pork). (2) No association was observed between the western food pattern and bone mineral density. High animal protein pattern showed lower SOS value compared with low animal protein pattern. High calcium pattern showed higher SOS value compared with low calcium pattern. High traditional Chinese pattern showed higher SOS value compared with the low traditional Chinese pattern. Dietary patterns are closely related with bone mineral density (BMD) of freshmen.

Characterization of coal-derived liquids and other fossil-fuel-related materials employing mass spectrometry. Final report, September 30, 1976-September 29, 1980

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Scheppele, S E

1982-05-01

A document was prepared which assessed the state-of-the art in the mass spectrometric characterization of fossil fuel materials and the relevance of these data to the fossil fuel industry. A Kratos DS50 SM data system was successfully interfaced to a CEC 21-110B mass spectrometer. Communications between the NOVA 3/12 computer in the data system and the OSU central computer were established. A Grant Comparator/Microdensitometer was acquired and made operational. Plans were developed and hardware acquired for interfacing the densitometer to the NOVA 3/12 computer. A quartz direct introduction probe was acquired for the CEC 21-110B. A temperature controller for the probe was acquired and interfaced to the slow speed ADC on the auxillary board in the data system/mass spectrometer interface. The combined FI/EI source was modified to operate in the FD mode and an apparatus was fabricated for conditioning FD emitters. A CSI supergrater 3 was interfaced to the PE 3920 gas chromatograph. The upgraded facility was used to develop mass spectrometric methods for the characterization of fossil fuel materials and to apply methods to the characterization of these materials. Activities included: (1) initial development of field-ionization mass spectrometry for the characterization of saturated hydrocarbons, (2) computerization of the technique of probe microdistillation/mass spectrometry, (3) initation of the development of a new method for the computer assisted assignment of formulas to ion masses, (4) characterization of neutral fractions from a hydrotreated tar-sands oil, and (5) characterization of coal-derived oils and asphaltenes.

Pool Boiling of Hydrocarbon Mixtures on Water

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Boee, R.

1996-09-01

In maritime transport of liquefied natural gas (LNG) there is a risk of spilling cryogenic liquid onto water. The present doctoral thesis discusses transient boiling experiments in which liquid hydrocarbons were poured onto water and left to boil off. Composition changes during boiling are believed to be connected with the initiation of rapid phase transition in LNG spilled on water. 64 experimental runs were carried out, 14 using pure liquid methane, 36 using methane-ethane, and 14 using methane-propane binary mixtures of different composition. The water surface was open to the atmosphere and covered an area of 200 cm{sup 2} at 25 - 40{sup o}C. The heat flux was obtained by monitoring the change of mass vs time. The void fraction in the boiling layer was measured with a gamma densitometer, and a method for adapting this measurement concept to the case of a boiling cryogenic liquid mixture is suggested. Significant differences in the boil-off characteristics between pure methane and binary mixtures revealed by previous studies are confirmed. Pure methane is in film boiling, whereas the mixtures appear to enter the transitional boiling regime with only small amounts of the second component added. The results indicate that the common assumption that LNG will be in film boiling on water because of the high temperature difference, may be questioned. Comparison with previous work shows that at this small scale the results are influenced by the experimental apparatus and procedures. 66 refs., 76 figs., 28 tabs.

Influence of obesity on bone mineral density in postmenopausal asthma patients undergoing treatment with inhaled corticosteroids.

Science.gov (United States)

Yanik, Burcu; Ayrim, Aylin; Ozol, Duygu; Koktener, Asli; Gokmen, Derya

2009-01-01

The etiology of osteoporosis in asthma is complex as various factors contribute to its pathogenesis. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of obesity and inhaled steroids, as well as the severity and duration of asthma, on osteoporosis in postmenopausal asthma patients as compared to healthy controls. A total of 46 patients with asthma and 60 healthy female controls, all postmenopausal, were enrolled in our study. Bone mineral density was assessed at the lumbar spine and hip using a Lunar DPX-L densitometer. Bone mineral density (BMD) scores were comparable between the asthmatic and control groups, with average scores of 0.95 +/- 0.29 and 0.88 +/- 0.14 g/cm(2), respectively. Likewise, osteoporosis was diagnosed in a similar percentage of patients in the asthmatic (39.1%) and control (43.3%) groups. Bone fracture was identified in four patients with asthma (8.6%) and in six patients from the control group (10%). We could not detect any relationship between BMD and duration of asthma, asthma severity, inhaled steroids or body mass index (BMI). There was no difference between the two groups with respect to age or years since menopause. Although asthma patients were more likely to be overweight and presented higher BMD scores on average than the control subjects, these differences were not statistically significant. There is a slight positive protective effect of high BMI against osteoporosis in asthma patients, but this effect is overcome by time and menopause status. Therefore, the protective effect of obesity against osteoporosis in asthma patients seems to not be significant.

CALCANEAL MINERAL DENSITY IN CHILDREN ATHLETES AND TAKE-OFF LEG

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Borislav Obradović

2010-06-01

Full Text Available It is well-known that physical activity has an anabolic effect on the bone tissue. To examine the influence of the take-off lower limb to the bone density we studied a group of prepubertal boys and girls at the initial phase of their peak bone mass acquisition. A sample consisted of 60 subjects ie., 32 soccer players (boys, 10.7±0.5 years old and 28 swimmers (15 girls and 13 boys, 10.8±0.8 years old, who had performed at least one year of high-level sport training (10-15 hours per week for soccer players, 8-12 hours per week for swimmers. The sample was divided into two groups: the first consisted of 40 subjects, with the left take-off leg, while the second consisted of 20 subjects, with the right take-off leg. The bone mineral density (BMD measurements of the left and the right calcaneus were performed using ultrasound densitometer “Sahara” (Hologic, Inc., MA, USA. There were no significant differences between the groups in regard to BUA and SOS of both the left and the right take-off lower legs. Mean BUA of the take-off left leg and the take-off right leg were different, but not significantly (p>0.05. Likewise, mean SOS of the take-off left leg and the take-off right leg were different, but it was not significant (p>0.05. The results do not indicate that the take-off lower limb has an influence on calcaneal bone mineral density.

Volumetric and transport properties of binary liquid mixtures of sulfolane with aniline, N,N-dimethylaniline and N,N-diethylaniline at different temperatures and atmospheric pressure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aftabuzzaman, M.; Islam, M. Monirul; Nasiruddin; Rima, Farhana Rahman; Islam, M. Nazrul; Ali, M. Azhar

2016-01-01

Highlights: • ρ and η of sulfolane + aniline, +N,N-DMA, +N,N-DEA binary mixtures were measured. • V"E values for sulfolane + aniline, +N,N-DMA, +N,N-DEA binary mixtures are negative. • Δη &d_1_2 are positive for sulfolane + aniline, and negative for +N,N-DMA, +N,N-DEA. • The chemical or strong specific interactions exist in sulfolane + aniline mixtures. • The structural effects are dominated in sulfolane +N,N-DMA, +N,N-DEA mixtures.​ - Abstract: Densities and viscosities of pure sulfolane, aniline, N,N-dimethylaniline, N,N-diethylaniline and their binary mixtures with sulfolane as common component were measured over the entire composition range at T = (303.15, 308.15, and 313.15) K and atmospheric pressure. A high precision vibrating-tube densitometer (DSA 5000, Anton-Paar, Austria) was used for the density measurements and a Cannon–Fenske routine type viscometer for the viscosity. The various thermodynamic properties such as excess molar volumes, deviation of viscosity, free energy and excess free energy of activation for viscous flow were calculated for each of the systems. The excess properties were fitted to the Redlich–Kister equation, and coefficients along with standard deviation of fit were also presented. All these properties were discussed in terms of molecular interactions. The experimental findings would be tremendous important for the accurate design of equipment, and controlling the process parameters of various chemical and industrial processes such as separation of chemicals, fluid flow, heat flow or chemical reactions.

Bone densitometry in normal women of reproductive age: Correlation with reference values and anthropometric variables

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lobo, G.; Palma, T.; Ladron de Guevara, D.

2002-01-01

Bone mass density measurements using X rays is considered to be the non-invasive reference method to measure bone mineral density. Even though the technology has reached a high level of development, precision and reproducibility must be optimised to assure that the observed variations are due solely to the variations in bone mineral content, and not to other associated variables, either technical or biological. The main factors affecting bone density measurements are those that depend on the technique used and those which depend on characteristics of the individuals. The variability associated with the technique can be minimised by an adequate standardisation and quality control. Among those characteristics of the individuals, which have been mentioned as a source of variability, the most important are related to the anthropomorphic characteristics such as size and depth of osseous structures, and thickness and characteristics of soft tissues. These factors may be especially important because the interpretation of bone mass density measurements depends on values obtained for reference normal populations, which are incorporated into the bone mass densitometers as reference value databases. Usually the anthropomorphic characteristics of this reference population are unknown and can be different from those of the local population, independently of genetic or ethnic factors. This situation leads to error both in the definition of basic concepts such as osteopenia and osteoporosis, and in the interpretation of individual results for population studies. The purpose of this study is to correlate bone density measurements of normal Chilean women with reference value databases and with parameters, which depend on body size

The influence of x-ray energy on lung dose uniformity in total-body irradiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ekstrand, Kenneth; Greven, Kathryn; Wu Qingrong

1997-01-01

Purpose: In this study we examine the influence of x-ray energy on the uniformity of the dose within the lung in total-body irradiation treatments in which partial transmission blocks are used to control the lung dose. Methods and Materials: A solid water phantom with a cork insert to simulate a lung was irradiated by x-rays with energies of either 6, 10, or 18 MV. The source to phantom distance was 3.9 meters. The cork insert was either 10 cm wide or 6 cm wide. Partial transmission blocks with transmission factors of 50% were placed anterior to the cork insert. The blocks were either 8 or 4 cm in width. Kodak XV-2 film was placed in the midline of the phantom to record the dose. Midplane dose profiles were measured with a densitometer. Results: For the 10 cm wide cork insert the uniformity of the dose over 80% of the block width varied from 6.6% for the 6 MV x-rays to 12.2% for the 18 MV x-rays. For the 6 cm wide cork insert the uniformity was comparable for all three x-ray energies, but for 18 MV the central dose increased by 9.4% compared to the 10 cm wide insert. Conclusion: Many factors must be considered in optimizing the dose for total-body irradiation. This study suggests that for AP/PA techniques lung dose uniformity is superior with 6 MV irradiation. The blanket recommendation that the highest x-ray energy be used in TBI is not valid for all situations

Estimation of dose in skin through the use of radiochromic and radiographic films in patients subjected to interventional procedures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Campos Garcia, Juan Pablo

2014-01-01

Radiation doses in skin of patients subjected to interventional procedures is estimated from the utilization and analysis of GAFCHROMIC® XR-RV2 radiochromic films and KODAK® X-Omat films with aid of the ImageJ software. The distribution of the radiation fields in the films is generated to obtain the distribution of dose in skin and to find peaks of dose by isodose curves using ImageJ software. The calibration curves are realized from GAFCHROMIC® XR-RV2 radiochromic films, through the use of a densitometer and two types of scanners (reflection scanner and transmission scanner). The reflection scanner has digitalized color images of 48 bit in TIFF format. The scanner transmission has digitalized in grayscale images to 16 bit in TIFF format. Each method has determined the points with maximum dose in skin. The images of the areas of regions with maximum doses are obtained of the scanner. The quantified doses are compared in the radiochromic films with the band of doses supplied by the manufacturer. The methodologies for the estimation of the doses obtained are compared of the radiochromic films with those obtained with the KODAK® X-Omat films. The procedure of obtaining of the doses is validated in patients with KODAK® X-Omat films. The doses obtained have covered a range from the 0,1Gy to 9 Gy. Radiographic films have allowed an assessment of the doses to 900 cGy due to the saturation thereof, the doses found in that range have been consistent with the doses in radiochromic films [es

Expression of embryonic hemoglobin genes in mice heterozygous for α-thalassemia or β-duplication traits and in mice heterozygous for both traits

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Popp, R.A.; Marsh, C.L.; Skow, L.C.

1981-01-01

Hemoglobins of mouse embryos at 11.5 through 16.5 days of gestation were separated by electrophoresis on cellulose acetate and quantitated by a scanning densitometer to study the effects of two radiation-induced mutations on the expression of embryonic hemoglobin genes in mice. Normal mice produce three kinds of embryonic hemoglobins. In heterozygous α-thalassemic embryos, expression of EI (x 2 y 2 ) and EII (α 2 y 2 ) is deficient because the x- and α-globin genes of one of the allelic pairs of Hba on chromosome 11 was deleted or otherwise inactivated by X irradiation. Simultaneous inactivation of the x- and α-globin genes indicates that these genes must be closely linked. Reduced x- and α-chain synthesis results in an excess of y chains that associate as homotetramers. This unique y 4 hemoglobin also appears in β-duplication embryos where excess y chains are produced by the presence of three rather than two functional alleles of y- and β-globin genes. In double heterozygotes, which have a single functional allele of x- and α-globin genes and three functional alleles of y- and β-globin genes, synthesis of α and non-α chains is severely imbalanced and half of the total hemoglobin is y 4 . Mouse y 4 has a high affinity for oxygen, P 50 of less than 10 mm Hg, but it lacks cooperativity so is inefficient for oxygen transport. The death of double heterozygotes in late fetal or neonatal life may be in large part to oxygen deprivation to the tissues

Reproducibility of trabecular bone score with different scan modes using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry: a phantom study

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bandirali, Michele; Messina, Carmelo [Universita degli Studi di Milano, Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Milano (Italy); Di Leo, Giovanni [Unita di Radiologia, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese (Italy); Pastor Lopez, Maria Juana; Ulivieri, Fabio M. [Servizio di Medicina Nucleare, Ospedale Maggiore, Mineralometria Ossea Computerizzata e Ambulatorio Malattie Metabolismo Minerale e Osseo, Milano (Italy); Mai, Alessandro [Universita degli Studi di Milano, Tecniche di Radiologia Medica, per Immagini e Radioterapia, Milano (Italy); Sardanelli, Francesco [Unita di Radiologia, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese (Italy); Universita degli Studi di Milano, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, San Donato Milanese (Italy)

2014-08-12

The trabecular bone score (TBS) accounts for the bone microarchitecture and is calculated on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). We estimated the reproducibility of the TBS using different scan modes compared to the reproducibility bone mineral density (BMD). A spine phantom was used with a Hologic QDR-Discovery A densitometer. For each scan mode [fast array, array, high definition (HD)], 25 scans were automatically performed without phantom repositioning; a further 25 scans were performed with phantom repositioning. For each scan, the TBS was obtained. The coefficient of variation (CoV) was calculated as the ratio between standard deviation and mean; percent least significant change (LSC%) as 2.8 x CoV; reproducibility as the complement to 100 % of LSC%. Differences among scan modes were assessed using ANOVA. Without phantom repositioning, the mean TBS (mm{sup -1}) was: 1.352 (fast array), 1.321 (array), and 1.360 (HD); with phantom repositioning, it was 1.345, 1.332, and 1.362, respectively. Reproducibility of the TBS without phantom repositioning was 97.7 % (fast array), 98.3 % (array), and 98.2 % (HD); with phantom repositioning, it was 97.9 %, 98.7 %, and 98.4 %, respectively. LSC% was ≤2.26 %. Differences among scan modes were all statistically significant (p ≤ 0.019). Reproducibility of BMD was 99.1 % with all scan modes, while LSC% was from 0.86 % to 0.91 %. Reproducibility error of the TBS was 2-3-fold higher than that of BMD. Although statistically significant, differences in TBS among scan modes were within the highest LSC%. Thus, the three scan modes can be considered interchangeable. (orig.)

A new assay for cytotoxic lymphocytes, based on a radioautographic readout of 111In release, suitable for rapid, semi-automated assessment of limit-dilution cultures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shortman, K.; Wilson, A.

1981-01-01

A new assay for cytotoxic T lymphocytes is described, of general application, but particularly suitable for rapid, semi-automated assessment of multiple microculture tests. Target cells are labelled with high efficiency and to high specific activity with the oxine chelate of 111 indium. After a 3-4 h incubation of test cells with 5 X 10 3 labelled target cells in V wells of microtitre trays, samples of the supernatant are spotted on paper (5 μl) or transferred to soft-plastic U wells (25-50 μl) and the 111 In release assessed by radioautography. Overnight exposure of X-ray film with intensifying screens at -70 0 C gives an image which is an intense dark spot for maximum release, a barely visible darkening with the low spontaneous release, and a definite positive with 10% specific lysis. The degree of film darkening, which can be quantitated by microdensitometry, shows a linear relationship with cytotoxic T lymphocyte dose up to the 40% lysis level. The labelling intensity and sensitivity can be adjusted over a wide range, allowing a single batch of the short half-life isotope to serve for 2 weeks. The 96 assays from a single tray are developed simultaneously on a single small sheet of film. Many trays can be processed together, and handling is rapid if 96-channel automatic pipettors are used. The method allows rapid visual scanning for positive and negative limit dilution cultures in cytotoxic T cell precursor frequency and specificity studies. In addition, in conjunction with an automated densitometer designed to scan microtitre trays, the method provides an efficient alternative to isotope counting in routine cytotoxic assays. (Auth.)

IAEA experience with authentication of in-plant NDA instrumentation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Augustson, R.H.; Dermendjiev, E.

1983-01-01

The paper discusses IAEA experience with permanently installed measuring equipment, i.e. in-plant NDA instrumentation, which often has advantages over portable equipment, such as improved accuracy, automated sample handling and data collection, and capacity for higher throughput. In some cases, in-plant equipment is the only means of making a field measurement. However, the use of in-plant equipment requires an additional set of inspector procedures to ensure that the instrument is working correctly and has not been tampered with. This process of verifying instrument performance is called authentication. General guidelines for approaches to authentication have been studied and formulated by an IAEA Advisory Group Meeting held in November 1981. Procedures for specific instruments have been developed in some cases with the help of national support programmes. The field application of authentication is accomplished by incorporating specific actions into inspection procedures. Results are written down as part of the working papers and included in the final inspection report. For quantitative checks such as measurement of a working standard the results are sent along with the inspection measurements to the Agency for inclusion in the safeguards data base. The in-plant equipment may be owned by the facility, a State, a safeguards organization or the Agency. In each case, the use of the in-plant equipment will necessitate additional interactions between facility operator and inspector, in order to judge the impact on plant operation, and understand what is being measured and what can go wrong. The paper discusses the IAEA's experience gained in the field application of authentication procedures for instrument systems such as weighing and volume measuring devices, rod scanners, neutron activation systems and K-edge densitometers

Role of proper response schemes, legislation and regional co-operation in combating illicit trafficking of nuclear materials in developing countries

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sterzov, A.

2003-01-01

Bulgaria's geographical location - between Europe, the former Soviet Union, and the Middle East - exposes it to much illegal trafficking: of people, arms, drugs, etc. The trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials in Bulgaria can be divided in two main parts - internal and transit. Internal trafficking consists of stolen radioactive sources such as counters and densitometers, irradiation devices, tools for removing static electricity, and smoke detectors, which mainly contain the isotopes 137 Cs, 60 Co, 192 Ir, 226 Ra and 241 Am. The external trafficking of illicit nuclear materials is connected with transfer of raw materials and expensive metals from the former Soviet Union to countries in Western Europe and the Middle East, including aluminium, osmium, caesium, scandium, rare earth elements, red mercury, plutonium and enriched uranium. Detecting internal and external trafficking poses serious problems for the Bulgarian authorities, in terms of equipment and qualified personnel at the borders and inside the country. Developing countries need protocols for detecting and responding to illicit trafficking of nuclear materials, which is a new threat that requires rapid implementation of comprehensive measures and efforts, novel approaches, coordination of services and institutions, and even new legislation. The paper describes a three step model for better and more rapid responses for combating illicit nuclear trafficking in Bulgaria.The steps involve developing first response protocols, using nondestructive analytical means to categorize materials on-site, followed by in-depth analysis. It is also important to initiate contacts with neighbouring countries to foster regional collaboration among law enforcement agencies, customs authorities, analytical laboratories, etc., to improve efficiency in combating illicit trafficking of nuclear materials. (author)

Compton-scatter tissue densitometry: calculation of single and multiple scatter photon fluences

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Battista, J.J.; Bronskill, M.J.

1978-01-01

The accurate measurement of in vivo electron densities by the Compton-scatter method is limited by attenuations and multiple scattering in the patient. Using analytic and Monte Carlo calculation methods, the Clarke tissue density scanner has been modelled for incident monoenergetic photon energies from 300 to 2000 keV and for mean scattering angles of 30 to 130 degrees. For a single detector focussed to a central position in a uniform water phantom (25 x 25 x 25 cm 3 ) it has been demonstrated that: (1) Multiple scatter contamination is an inherent limitation of the Compton-scatter method of densitometry which can be minimised, but not eliminated, by improving the energy resolution of the scattered radiation detector. (2) The choice of the incident photon energy is a compromise between the permissible radiation dose to the patient and the tolerable level of multiple scatter contamination. For a mean scattering angle of 40 degrees, the intrinsic multiple-single scatter ratio decreases from 64 to 35%, and the radiation dose (per measurement) increases from 1.0 to 4.1 rad, as the incident photon energy increases from 300 to 2000 keV. These doses apply to a sampled volume of approximately 0.3 cm 3 and an electron density precision of 0.5%. (3) The forward scatter densitometer configuration is optimum, minimising both the dose and the multiple scatter contamination. For an incident photon energy of 1250 keV, the intrinsic multiple-single scatter ratio reduces from 122 to 27%, and the dose reduces from 14.3 to 1.2 rad, as the mean scattering angle decreases from 130 to 30 degrees. These calculations have been confirmed by experimental measurements. (author)

Differentiation study of porous hydroxyapatite body fabricated by using three different additives

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cik Rohaida Che Hak; Idris Besar; Rusnah Mustaffa; Mohd Reusmaazran Yusof

2005-01-01

Porous hydroxyapatite is suitable for bone surgery applications because it allows bone ingrowth and promotes faster healing. In this study, a porous hydroxyapatite body was fabricated by slip casting route, followed by a comprehensive investigation of its physical properties. The porous body was prepared by mixing the hydroxyapatite slurry with three different additives namely; sago beads, potassium oleate and sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS). The mixture of slurry and additives was then casted in plaster mold before it was dried and sintered at high temperature. The structure of the porous body could be tailored by using different composition and parameters of the additives; sago beads (pore former agent), potassium oleate (foaming agent) and SDS (foaming agent). The role of these three additives was investigated by several chemical, physical and mechanical evaluations method. The identification of additives was determined by FTIR, the porosity of porous hydroxyapatite was measured by Densitometer and the morphology of the porous structure was observed under Scanning Electron Microscopy and Image Analyzer. The results showed that potassium oleate contribute significantly towards porosity. However the resulting porosity would actually very dependent on the proportions of the additives, the more additives being added, the higher the porosity. All three additives produced macrostructure with pores larger than 100 mm, however the one produced by using sago beads showed a less pore interconnection structure compared to those obtained by both foaming agent. Playing with different proportions of these additives, it was possible to improve the foam stability, size of pores and pore connectivity in order to reproduce the porous hydroxyapatite body that having a similar pore structure of the natural bone. (Author)

Performance evaluation of the ORNL multi-elemental XRF analysis algorithms

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

McElroy, Robert Dennis [Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)

2016-11-01

Hybrid K-Edge Densitometer (HKED) systems integrate both K-Edge Densitometry (KED) and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyses to provide accurate rapid, assay results of the uranium and plutonium content of dissolver solution samples from nuclear fuel reprocessing facilities. Introduced for international safeguards applications in the late 1980s, the XRF component of the hybrid analyses is limited to quantification of U and Pu over a narrow range of U:Pu concentration ratios in the vicinity of ≈100. The analysis was further limited regarding the presence of minor actinide components where only a single minor actinide (typically Am) is included in the analysis and then only treated as an interference. The evolving nuclear fuel cycle has created the need to assay more complex dissolver solutions where uranium may no longer be the dominant actinide in the solution and the concentrations of the so called minor actinides (e.g., Th, Np, Am, and Cm) are sufficiently high that they can no longer be treated as impurities and ignored. Extension of the traditional HKED Region of Interest (ROI) based analysis to include these additional actinides is not possible due to the increased complexity of the XRF spectra. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has developed a spectral fitting approach to the HKED XRF measurement with an enhanced algorithm set to accommodate these complex XRF spectra. This report provides a summary of the spectral fitting methodology and examines the performance of these algorithms using data obtained from the ORNL HKED system, as well as data provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on actual dissolver solutions.

Use of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of osteomalacia: preliminary results on experimental osteomalacia in the rat.

Science.gov (United States)

Luisetto, G; Camozzi, V; De Terlizzi, F; Moschini, G; Ballanti, P

1999-03-01

This study was performed to investigate the ability of ultrasonographic technique to distinguish osteomalacia from normal bone with the same mineral content. Ten rats with experimentally induced osteomalacia (group A) and 12 control rats having similar body size and weight (group B) were studied. Histomorphometric analysis confirmed the presence of osteomalacia in two rats from group A and showed normally mineralized bone in two rats from group B. Whole body bone mineral density, measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, was similar in the two groups (86 +/- 6 mg/cm2 in group A and 89 +/- 4 mg/cm2 in group B). The velocity of the ultrasound beam in bone was measured by densitometer at the first caudal vertebra of each rat. The velocity was measured when the first peak of the waveform reached a predetermined minimum amplitude value (amplitude-dependent speed of sound) as well as at the lowest point of this curve before it reaches the predetermined minimum amplitude (first minimum speed of sound). Although the amplitude-dependent speed of sound was similar in the two groups (1381.9 +/- 11.8 m/s in group A and 1390.9 +/- 17.8 m/s in group B), the first minimum speed of sound was clearly different (1446.1 +/- 8.9 m/s in group A and 1503.3 +/- 10.9 m/s in group B; P < 0.001). This study shows that ultrasonography could be used to identify alterations in bone quality, such as osteomalacia, but further studies need to be carried out before this method can be introduced into clinical practice.

Quantitative digital radiography with two dimensional flat panels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dinten, J.M.; Robert-Coutant, C.; Darboux, M.

2003-01-01

Purpose: Attenuation law relates radiographic images to irradiated object thickness and chemical composition. Film radiography exploits qualitatively this property for diagnosis. Digital radiographic flat panels present large dynamic range, reproducibility and linearity properties which open the gate for quantification. We will present, through two applications (mammography and bone densitometry), an approach to extract quantitative information from digital 2D radiographs. Material and method: The main difficulty for quantification is X-rays scatter, which superimposes to acquisition data. Because of multiple scatterings and 3D geometry dependence, it cannot be directly exploited through an exact analytical model. Therefore we have developed an approach for its estimation and subtraction from medical radiographs, based on approximations and derivations of analytical models of scatter formation in human tissues. Results: In digital mammography, the objective is to build a map of the glandular tissue thickness. Its separation from fat tissue is based on two equations: height of compression and attenuation. This last equation needs X-Rays scatter correction. In bone densitometry, physicians look for quantitative bone mineral density. Today, clinical DEXA systems use collimated single or linear detectors to eliminate scatter. This scanning technology induces poor image quality. By applying our scatter correction approach, we have developed a bone densitometer using a digital flat panel (Lexxos, DMS). It provides with accurate and reproducible measurements while presenting radiological image quality. Conclusion: These applications show how information processing, and especially X-Rays scatter processing, enables to extract quantitative information from digital radiographs. This approach, associated to Computer Aided Diagnosis algorithms or reconstructions algorithms, gives access to useful information for diagnosis. (author)

Parallel hole collimator acceptance tests for SPECT and planar studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Babicheva, R.R.; Bennie, D.N.; Collins, L.T.; Gruenwald, S.M.

1998-01-01

Full text: Different kinds of collimator damage can occur either during shipping or from regular use. Imperfections of construction along the strips or their connections give rise to nonperpendicular hole alignments to the crystal face and can produce potential problems such as ring artifacts and image degradation. Gamma camera collimator hole alignments and integrity were compared in four parallel hole high resolution collimators-two new cast and two used foil collimators, one with damage to the protective surface. [1] The point source flood image of the defective collimator was non-circular as were the images of cast collimators. The image of new foil collimator was circular. [2] High count sheet flood did not show any imperfections. [3] Bone mineral densitometer was used to perform collimated X-ray beam. The collimator was placed on the scanning bed with an X-ray cassette placed directly above it. The damaged area was well demonstrated. [4] The COR offset test was taken at two extreme radii. The offset value with the defective collimator is increased by 0.53 pixel or 129% with increase of COR from radius 14 cm to 28cm. [5] The collimator hole alignment test involves performing multiple measurements of COR along the length of the collimator, and checking for variations in COR with both position of source and angle of rotation. The maximum variation in COR of the defective collimator hole alignment was 1.13 mm. Collimators require testing when new and at regular intervals, or following damage. The point source test can be used for foil collimators. The most sensitive tests were collimated X-ray source, COR offset test and collimator hole alignment

Characterization of a multileaf collimator system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Galvin, J.M.; Smith, A.R.; Lally, B.

1993-01-01

Commissioning measurements for a multileaf collimator installed on a dual energy accelerator with 6 and 15 MV photons are described. Detailed dosimetric characterization of the multileaf collimator is a requirement for modeling the collimator with treatment planning software. Measurements include a determination of the penumbra width, leaf transmission, between-leaf leakage, and localization of the leaf ends and sides. Standard radiographic film was used for the penumbra measurements, and separate experiments using radiochromic film and thermoluminescent dosimeters were performed to verify that distortions of the dose distribution at an edge due to changing energy sensitivity of silver bromide film are negligible. Films were analyzed with a scanning laser densitometer with a 210 micron spot. Little change in the penumbra edge distribution was noted for different positions of a leaf in the field. Experiments localizing the physical end of the leaves showed less than 1 mm deviation from the 50% decrement line. This small difference is attributed to the shaped end on the leaves. One side of a single leaf corresponded to the 50% decrement line, but the opposite face was aligned with a lower value. This difference is due to the tongue and groove used to decrease between-leaf leakage. For both energies, approximately 2% of photons incident on the multileaf collimator are transmitted and an additional 0.5% leakage occurs between the leaves. Alignment of the leaves to form a straight edge results in a penumbra profile which compares favorably with the standard technique of using alloy blocks. When the edge is stepped, the isodose lines follow the leaf pattern and the boundary is poorly defined compared to divergent blocks. 19 refs., 13 figs

Influence of obesity on bone mineral density in postmenopausal asthma patients undergoing treatment with inhaled corticosteroids

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Burcu Yanik

2009-04-01

Full Text Available OBJECTIVES: The etiology of osteoporosis in asthma is complex as various factors contribute to its pathogenesis. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of obesity and inhaled steroids, as well as the severity and duration of asthma, on osteoporosis in postmenopausal asthma patients as compared to healthy controls. METHODS: A total of 46 patients with asthma and 60 healthy female controls, all postmenopausal, were enrolled in our study. Bone mineral density was assessed at the lumbar spine and hip using a Lunar DPX-L densitometer. RESULTS: Bone mineral density (BMD scores were comparable between the asthmatic and control groups, with average scores of 0.95 ± 0.29 and 0.88 ± 0.14 g/cm², respectively. Likewise, osteoporosis was diagnosed in a similar percentage of patients in the asthmatic (39.1% and control (43.3% groups. Bone fracture was identified in four patients with asthma (8.6% and in six patients from the control group (10%. We could not detect any relationship between BMD and duration of asthma, asthma severity, inhaled steroids or body mass index (BMI. There was no difference between the two groups with respect to age or years since menopause. Although asthma patients were more likely to be overweight and presented higher BMD scores on average than the control subjects, these differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: There is a slight positive protective effect of high BMI against osteoporosis in asthma patients, but this effect is overcome by time and menopause status. Therefore, the protective effect of obesity against osteoporosis in asthma patients seems to not be significant.

K-band EPR dosimetry: small-field beam profile determination with miniature alanine dosimeter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chen, Felipe; Graeff, Carlos F.O.; Baffa, Oswaldo

2005-01-01

The use of small-size alanine dosimeters presents a challenge because the signal intensity is less than the spectrometer sensitivity. K-band (24 GHz) EPR spectrometer seems to be a good compromise between size and sensitivity of the sample. Miniature alanine pellets were evaluated for small-field radiation dosimetry. Dosimeters of DL-alanine/PVC with dimensions of 1.5 mm diameter and 2.5 mm length with 5 mg mass were developed. These dosimeters were irradiated with 10 MV X-rays in the dose range 0.05-60 Gy and the first harmonic (1 h) spectra were recorded. Microwave power, frequency and amplitude of modulation were optimized to obtain the best signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). For beam profile determination, a group of 25 dosimeters were placed in an acrylic device with dimensions of (7.5x2.5x1) cm 3 and irradiated with a (3x3) cm 2 10 MV X-rays beam field size. The dose at the central region of the beam was 20 Gy at a depth of 2.2 cm (build up for acrylic). The acrylic device was oriented perpendicular to the beam axis and to the gantry rotation axis. For the purposes of comparison of the spatial resolution, the beam profile was also determined with a radiographic film and 2 mm aperture optical densitometer; in this case the dose was 1 cGy. The results showed a similar spatial resolution for both types of dosimeters. The dispersion in dose reading was larger for alanine in comparison with the film, but alanine dosimeters can be read faster and more directly than film over a wide dose range

Influence of bone density on the cement fixation of femoral hip resurfacing components.

Science.gov (United States)

Bitsch, Rudi G; Jäger, Sebastian; Lürssen, Marcus; Loidolt, Travis; Schmalzried, Thomas P; Clarius, Michael

2010-08-01

In clinical outcome studies, small component sizes, female gender, femoral shape, focal bone defects, bad bone quality, and biomechanics have been associated with failures of resurfacing arthroplasties. We used a well-established experimental setup and human bone specimens to analyze the effects of bone density on cement fixation of femoral hip resurfacing components. Thirty-one fresh frozen femora were prepared for resurfacing using the original instruments. ASR resurfacing prostheses were implanted after dual-energy X-ray densitometer scans. Real-time measurements of pressure and temperature during implantation, analyses of cement penetration, and measurements of micro motions under torque application were performed. The associations of bone density and measurement data were examined calculating regression lines and multiple correlation coefficients; acceptability was tested with ANOVA. We found significant relations between bone density and micro motion, cement penetration, cement mantle thickness, cement pressure, and interface temperature. Mean bone density of the femora was 0.82 +/- 0.13 g/cm(2), t-score was -0.7 +/- 1.0, and mean micro motion between bone and femoral resurfacing component was 17.5 +/- 9.1 microm/Nm. The regression line between bone density and micro motion was equal to -56.7 x bone density + 63.8, R = 0.815 (p density scans are most helpful for patient selection in hip resurfacing, and a better bone quality leads to higher initial component stability. A sophisticated cementing technique is recommended to avoid vigorous impaction and incomplete seating, since increasing bone density also results in higher cement pressures, lower cement penetration, lower interface temperatures, and thicker cement mantles. Copyright 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Needs of Advanced Safeguards Technologies for Future Nuclear Fuel Cycle (FNFC) Facilities and a Trial Application of SBD Concept to Facility Design of a Hypothetical FNFC Facility

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Seya, M.; Hajima, R.; Nishimori, N.; Hayakawa, T.; Kikuzawa, N.; Shizuma, T.; Fujiwara, M.

2010-01-01

Some of future nuclear fuel cycle (FNFC) facilities are supposed to have the characteristic features of very large throughput of plutonium, low decontamination reprocessing (no purification process; existence of certain amount of fission products (FP) in all process material), full minor actinides (MA) recycle, and treatment of MOX with FP and MA in fuel fabrication. In addition, the following international safeguards requirements have to be taken into account for safeguards approaches of the FNFC facilities. -Application of integrated safeguards (IS) approach; -Remote (unattended) verification; - 'Safeguards by Design' (SBD) concept. These features and requirements compel us to develop advanced technologies, which are not emerged yet. In order to realize the SBD, facility designers have to know important parts of design information on advanced safeguards systems before starting the facility design. The SBD concept requires not only early start of R and D of advanced safeguards technologies (before starting preliminary design of the facility) but also interaction steps between researchers working on safeguards systems and nuclear facility designers. The interaction steps are follows. Step-1; researchers show images of advanced safeguards systems to facility designers based on their research. Step-2; facility designers take important design information on safeguards systems into process systems of demonstration (or test) facility. Step-3; demonstration and improvement of both systems based on the conceptual design. Step-4; Construction of a FNFC facility with the advanced safeguards systems We present a trial application of the SBD concept to a hypothetical FNFC facility with an advanced hybrid K-edge densitometer and a Pu NDA system for spent nuclear fuel assembly using laser Compton scattering (LCS) X-rays and γ-rays and other advanced safeguards systems. (author)

Subcutaneous administration of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II/IGF binding protein-2 complex stimulates bone formation and prevents loss of bone mineral density in a rat model of disuse osteoporosis

Science.gov (United States)

Conover, Cheryl A.; Johnstone, Edward W.; Turner, Russell T.; Evans, Glenda L.; John Ballard, F. John; Doran, Patrick M.; Khosla, Sundeep

2002-01-01

Elevated serum levels of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) and a precursor form of IGF-II are associated with marked increases in bone formation and skeletal mass in patients with hepatitis C-associated osteosclerosis. In vitro studies indicate that IGF-II in complex with IGFBP-2 has high affinity for bone matrix and is able to stimulate osteoblast proliferation. The purpose of this study was to determine the ability of the IGF-II/IGFBP-2 complex to increase bone mass in vivo. Osteopenia of the femur was induced by unilateral sciatic neurectomy in rats. At the time of surgery, 14-day osmotic minipumps containing vehicle or 2 microg IGF-II+9 microg IGFBP-2/100g body weight/day were implanted subcutaneously in the neck. Bone mineral density (BMD) measurements were taken the day of surgery and 14 days later using a PIXImus small animal densitometer. Neurectomy of the right hindlimb resulted in a 9% decrease in right femur BMD (P<0.05 vs. baseline). This loss in BMD was completely prevented by treatment with IGF-II/IGFBP-2. On the control limb, there was no loss of BMD over the 14 days and IGF-II/IGFBP-2 treatment resulted in a 9% increase in left femur BMD (P<0.05). Bone histomorphometry indicated increases in endocortical and cancellous bone formation rates and in trabecular thickness. These results demonstrate that short-term administration of the IGF-II/IGFBP-2 complex can prevent loss of BMD associated with disuse osteoporosis and stimulate bone formation in adult rats. Furthermore, they provide proof of concept for a novel anabolic approach to increasing bone mass in humans with osteoporosis.

Comparison of radiographic density and compaction index of root canal obturation using nickel titanium or stainless-steel spreaders

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M. Adel

2016-08-01

Full Text Available Background: Both nickel titanium and stainless-steel spreaders are available. The obvious advantage of nickel titanium spreader over stainless steel spreaders is greater penetration in curved canals. Objective: To compare the radiographic density and compaction index of root canal obturation using nickel-titanium or stainless-steel spreaders in curved canals. Methods: In this experimental study the primary weight of 30 acrylic blocks with 45o degrees of apical curvature were measured by a scale (W1. After canals were prepared by step back master apical up to file #30 all blocks were weighed again (W2 and randomly divided in two groups of 15each. All canals were obturated by Cold lateral compaction technique (with nickel-titanium in one group and stainless-steel finger spreaders in another group. After all blocks were reweighed (W3, compaction index (W3-W2/W1-W2 was calculated. One radiograph was taken for each sample. Apical density of the apical third of each canal was measured by digital transmission densitometer. Data were analyzed statistically using T-test. Findings: Mean compaction index for nickel-titanium group was 7.67±2.38 and for stainless-steel group was 9.14±4.06. There was no significant difference between two groups. Mean radiographic density of obturation was 2.05±0.14 in nickel-titanium group and was 2.07±0.21 in stainless-steel group. There was no significant difference between two groups. Conclusion: It is concluded that nickel-titanium spreaders are not superior than stainless-steel spreaders in obturating curved canal.

An evaluation on the accuracy of the indirect digital images densitometry by modified Photoshop software

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Bashizadeh Fakhar H.

2004-06-01

Full Text Available Statement of Problem: One of the major goals, in most dental researches, is to measure bone destruction or deposition due to the progression or regression of disease. Failure of human eyes to detect minor radiographic density changes resulted in more accurate methods such as optical densitometry and direct or indirect digital densitometry."nPurpose: The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of a newly proposed method of indirect digital densitometry using modified Photoshop software."nMaterials and Methods: Radiographs from 37 samples of urografin solution with three concentrations (12.5%, 25% and 37.5% were taken on dental radiographic films no.2 and digitized by a scanner. A region with 800*800 pixels was cropped from each image and compressed with the Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG compression algorithm and saved. These new images were then put into registration with new algorithm using MATLAB software version 6.1. This algorithm assigned each image and average pixel value (between 0 and 255. The association between concentration and calculated values for each image was tested with regression analysis and the meaning fullness of differences between calculated values was also analysis by ANOVA test. Tukey HSD and Alpha Krunbach were used whenever needs."nResults: Regression analysis revealed significant correlation between concentration and calculated average pixel value (r=0.883. The differences between average of pixels value for different concentration was significant (P=0.0001. Pixel values showed a good intra- sample and intra-group repeatability (Alpha Krunbach: a=99.96%, a=99.68%."nConclusion: This method due to its high accuracy, easy usage and densitometer independency can be considered as a suitable alternative for conventional densitometry methods.

ADVANCED CUTTINGS TRANSPORT STUDY

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Stefan Miska; Nicholas Takach; Kaveh Ashenayi; Mengjiao Yu; Ramadan Ahmed; Mark Pickell; Len Volk; Lei Zhou; Zhu Chen; Aimee Washington; Crystal Redden

2003-09-30

The Quarter began with installing the new drill pipe, hooking up the new hydraulic power unit, completing the pipe rotation system (Task 4 has been completed), and making the SWACO choke operational. Detailed design and procurement work is proceeding on a system to elevate the drill-string section. The prototype Foam Generator Cell has been completed by Temco and delivered. Work is currently underway to calibrate the system. Literature review and preliminary model development for cuttings transportation with polymer foam under EPET conditions are in progress. Preparations for preliminary cuttings transport experiments with polymer foam have been completed. Two nuclear densitometers were re-calibrated. Drill pipe rotation system was tested up to 250 RPM. Water flow tests were conducted while rotating the drill pipe up to 100 RPM. The accuracy of weight measurements for cuttings in the annulus was evaluated. Additional modifications of the cuttings collection system are being considered in order to obtain the desired accurate measurement of cuttings weight in the annular test section. Cutting transport experiments with aerated fluids are being conducted at EPET, and analyses of the collected data are in progress. The printed circuit board is functioning with acceptable noise level to measure cuttings concentration at static condition using ultrasonic method. We were able to conduct several tests using a standard low pass filter to eliminate high frequency noise. We tested to verify that we can distinguish between different depths of sand in a static bed of sand. We tested with water, air and a mix of the two mediums. Major modifications to the DTF have almost been completed. A stop-flow cell is being designed for the DTF, the ACTF and Foam Generator/Viscometer which will allow us to capture bubble images without the need for ultra fast shutter speeds or microsecond flash system.

The use of dual X-ray absorptiometry for the determination of skeletal calcium accretion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ilich, J.Z.; Skugor, M.; Matkovic, V.

1994-01-01

The neutron activation analysis is considered the 'gold standard' method for the measurement of total body calcium (TBCa). The disadvantage of this method is that there are only a few centers that can perform the measurements with good precision, accuracy and relatively low radiation exposure. The measurement of TBCa gives the information about Ca skeletal accretion which is important for the determination of Ca requirements. The purpose of our study was to measure TBCa in adolescent females during different time periods. The TBCa was measured by the use of dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), on Lunar DPX-L densitometer (LUNAR Corp., Madison WI). The in-vivo precision of the instrument for TBCa measurements was 0.93%. The study population included 364 healthy, Caucasian females. An average age at baseline was 10.8±0.8 years (mean±SD) and 11.9±0.8 years after 1 year. The subjects underwent pubertal stage (PS) changes of PS 2 to PS 3 in their sexual development. The TBCa was 506±91 g (mean±SD) at baseline and 614±122 g after 1 year, with 21.3% change. Assuming that Ca comprises ∼ 38%% of bone mineral, there was ∼ 108 g of Ca accumulated in 1 year or ∼ 296 mg Ca/day. In addition, we compared Ca accretion measured by DXA (over the 6 months period) and 2 weeks Ca balance study on a subsample of 26 girls. The accumulation of Ca by DXA method was 52g/6 months and the one estimated from balance study was 50g. We conclude that DXA is a suitable noninvasive method for the measurement of TBCa accretion during rapid growth and for clinical intervention trials in adults. (author)

Evaluation of osteoporosis using conventional radiographic methods and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anburajan, M.

2001-01-01

In India, conventional radiographs play a major part in evaluating osteoporosis since advanced bone densitometers are expensive and not widely available. Our aim in this study was to investigate the usefulness of conventional radiographic methods, viz., clavicle and metacarpal radiogrammetry, quantitative vertebral morphometry, Singh's index, hip geometry compared to a sophisticated method, viz., DXA for studying osteoporosis in south Indian men (n=663) and women (n=741). This study provides data on BMD of the proximal femur in normal south Indian females. In women, aged above 65 years, BMD of femoral neck, trochanter, and Ward's triangle decreased by 0.90%, 0.84%, and 1.66% per annum, respectively. In 45 pre- and post-menopausal women without fractures, total hip BMD correlated significantly ( p 2 =0.47), medial cortical thickness of the femoral shaft (r 2 =0.38) and neck (r 2 =0.29), combined cortical thickness (CCT) and %CCT of the clavicle (r 2 =0.54 each), and the second metacarpal (r 2 =0.51 and r 2 =0.53, respectively). On comparing variables studied for osteoporotic women with corresponding values in the premenopausal group, the average difference in SD from the mean was greatest for clavicle radiogrammetry (-3.7 SD for %CCT of the clavicle). An empirical formula for predicting total hip BMD with good sensitivity was derived from a multiple linear regression equation involving three independent variables, viz., CCT, %CCT of the clavicle (measured from the chest radiograph) and the patient's age. This author's equation, with modified weightings, has 82% sensitivity and 94% specificity and a positive and negative predictive value of 88% and 91% respectively. A chest radiograph in combination with the formula would serve as a readily available, inexpensive tool for assessing post-menopausal osteoporosis, especially in developing countries

Modifying the baricity of local anesthetics for spinal anesthesia by temperature adjustment: model calculations.

Science.gov (United States)

Heller, Axel R; Zimmermann, Katrin; Seele, Kristin; Rössel, Thomas; Koch, Thea; Litz, Rainer J

2006-08-01

Although local anesthetics (LAs) are hyperbaric at room temperature, density drops within minutes after administration into the subarachnoid space. LAs become hypobaric and therefore may cranially ascend during spinal anesthesia in an uncontrolled manner. The authors hypothesized that temperature and density of LA solutions have a nonlinear relation that may be described by a polynomial equation, and that conversion of this equation may provide the temperature at which individual LAs are isobaric. Density of cerebrospinal fluid was measured using a vibrating tube densitometer. Temperature-dependent density data were obtained from all LAs commonly used for spinal anesthesia, at least in triplicate at 5 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, and 37 degrees C. The hypothesis was tested by fitting the obtained data into polynomial mathematical models allowing calculations of substance-specific isobaric temperatures. Cerebrospinal fluid at 37 degrees C had a density of 1.000646 +/- 0.000086 g/ml. Three groups of local anesthetics with similar temperature (T, degrees C)-dependent density (rho) characteristics were identified: articaine and mepivacaine, rho1(T) = 1.008-5.36 E-06 T2 (heavy LAs, isobaric at body temperature); L-bupivacaine, rho2(T) = 1.007-5.46 E-06 T2 (intermediate LA, less hypobaric than saline); bupivacaine, ropivacaine, prilocaine, and lidocaine, rho3(T) = 1.0063-5.0 E-06 T (light LAs, more hypobaric than saline). Isobaric temperatures (degrees C) were as follows: 5 mg/ml bupivacaine, 35.1; 5 mg/ml L-bupivacaine, 37.0; 5 mg/ml ropivacaine, 35.1; 20 mg/ml articaine, 39.4. Sophisticated measurements and mathematic models now allow calculation of the ideal injection temperature of LAs and, thus, even better control of LA distribution within the cerebrospinal fluid. The given formulae allow the adaptation on subpopulations with varying cerebrospinal fluid density.

A standard comparison of spectral properties and energy response for a number of ultraviolet dosimeters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abu Kassem, I.; Bero, M.

2013-09-01

The radio-chromic chemical radiation dosimeters are materials that change their optical properties (Spectrique optical absorbance and optical density) due to radiation absorption. These detectors are used for dose measurements of ionizing radiation (γ and X-rays). It was established that these detectors could be used for ultraviolet radiation dose measurements. So, the aim of this work is to study and compare the metrological properties of two radiation chemical detectors, FXG gel and EBT2 Gafchromic film. The FXG gel is prepared directly at laboratory but EBT2 gafchromic film is a self developed radiation sensible film which is available as commercial product. This work focuses on realizing a comparison study between FXG and EBT2 detector metrological properties. It consists of studying optical and spectral properties of the detectors responsivity, radiation and temporal stability, linearity and total detected dose level. The results showed that the studied detectors present a very good responsivity to UVA radiation, high stability in optical absorbance under UVA radiation and good linearity over wide radiation level which contains the solar UVA radiation level reaching the earth surface. But, the EBT2 film presents two time higher total detection dose level than FXG gel, moreover, due to the simplicity of use, it was possible to test the use of EBT2 film for direct solar UVA radiation measurement. The two studied chemical detector (FXG gel and EBT2 film) provide a direct second order mathematical relation between the applied radiation dose and the optical absorbance changes with a very good approximation and suitable uncertainty (Measurement results relative dispersion is about 5%). It is possible to study the EBT2 film optical density variation as a function of UVA dose using directly a portable densitometer (author).

Vitamin D and Calcium Intakes, Physical Activity, and Calcaneus BMC among School-Going 13-Year Old Malaysian Adolescents.

Science.gov (United States)

Suriawati, A A; Majid, Hazreen Abdul; Al-Sadat, Nabilla; Mohamed, Mohd Nahar Azmi; Jalaludin, Muhammad Yazid

2016-10-24

Dietary calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone development. Apart from diet, physical activity may potentially improve and sustain bone health. To investigate the relationship between the dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D, physical activity, and bone mineral content (BMC) in 13-year-old Malaysian adolescents. Cross-sectional. Selected public secondary schools from the central and northern regions of Peninsular Malaysia. The subjects were from the Malaysian Health and Adolescents Longitudinal Research Team Cohort study (MyHeARTs). The data included seven-day diet histories, anthropometric measurements, and the BMC of calcaneal bone using a portable broadband ultrasound bone densitometer. Nutritionist Pro software was used to calculate the dietary calcium and vitamin D intakes from the diet histories, based on the Nutrient Composition of Malaysian Food Database guidance for the dietary calcium intake and the Singapore Energy and Nutrient Composition of Food Database for vitamin D intake. A total of 289 adolescents (65.7% females) were recruited. The average dietary intakes of calcium and vitamin D were 377 ± 12 mg/day and 2.51 ± 0.12 µg/day, respectively, with the majority of subjects failing to meet the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) of Malaysia for dietary calcium and vitamin D. All the subjects had a normal Z-score for the BMC (-2.00 or higher) with a mean of 0.55 ± 0.01. From the statistical analysis of the factors contributing to BMC, it was found that for those subjects with a higher intake of vitamin D, a higher combination of the intake of vitamin D and calcium resulted in significantly higher BMC quartiles. The regression analysis showed that the BMC might have been influenced by the vitamin D intake. A combination of the intake of vitamin D and calcium is positively associated with the BMC.

Impact of degenerative radiographic abnormalities and vertebral fractures on spinal bone density of women with osteoporosis

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Lúcia Costa Paiva

2002-01-01

Full Text Available CONTEXT: Measurements of bone density taken by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry are the most accurate procedure for the diagnosis of osteoporosis. This procedure has the disadvantage of measuring the density of all mineral components, including osteophytes, vascular and extra vertebral calcifications. These alterations can influence bone density results and densitometry interpretation. OBJECTIVE: To correlate radiography and densitometry findings from women with osteoporosis, analyzing the influence of degenerative processes and vertebral fractures on the evaluation of bone density. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Osteoporosis outpatients' clinic at Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas. PARTICIPANTS: Ninety-six postmenopausal women presenting osteoporosis diagnosed by bone density. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine and femoral neck were measured by the technique of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, using a LUNAR-DPX densitometer. Fractures, osteophytes and aortic calcifications were evaluated by simple x-rays of the thoracic and lumbar spine. RESULTS: The x-rays confirmed vertebral fractures in 41.6%, osteophytes in 33.3% and calcifications of the aorta in 30.2%. The prevalence of fractures and aortic calcifications increased with age. The mean bone mineral density was 0.783g/cm² and the mean T-score was --3.47 DP. Neither fractures nor aortic calcifications had significant influence on bone mineral density (P = 0.36 and P = 0.09, respectively, despite the fractured vertebrae having greater bone mineral density (P < 0.02. Patients with lumbar spine osteophytes showed greater bone mineral density (P = 0.04. Osteophytosis was associated with lumbar spine bone mineral density after adjustment for fractures and aortic calcifications by multiple regression (P = 0.01. CONCLUSION: Osteophytes and lumbar spine fractures can overestimate bone density interpretation. The interpretation of densitometry

RISK FACTORS AND BONE MINERAL DENSITY IN ATHLETES AND NON-ATHLETES

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Saša Bubanj

2009-12-01

Full Text Available Risk factors are important aspects in the treatment of patients with lower bone mineral density (BMD.The objective of this study was to estimate the association between risk factors and BMD status of subjects.Forty subjects - athletes of first sub-sample, were recruited from a football club “Železničar” in Niš, while forty subjects - non-athletes of the second sub-sample, were recruited from the Faculty of Occupational Safety in Niš, totally 80 subjects of masculine sex. BMD was diagnosed by using Dual X-Ray Energy Absorptiometry (DEXA densitometer, in the lumbar region of the spinal column and region of the hip articulation, while the presence of risk factors was evaluated by the One-Minute Osteoporosis Risk Test, ie. questionnaire of the International Osteoporosis Foundation, just before the diagnostics of BMD. All subjects agreed with the terms of research, conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.Among 80 subjects, in six (1 athlete and 5 non-athletes athletes osteopenia was found in the lumbar region of the spinal column, and in three (non-athletes osteopenia was found in the region of hip articulation. Based on the results of χ2 test, there was the association between the lack of physical activity as a risk factor and osteopenia in the lumbar region of the spinal column (BMDSPINE osteopenia, and between the lack of physical activity as a risk factor and osteopenia in the region of hip articulation (BMDHIP osteopenia, while the association significance between smoking as a risk factor and BMDSPINE osteopenia should be taken with caution, because it is approaching the critical value (p=0.056.Concerning this research, the risk factors had a considerably greater impact on low BMD in non-athletes, compared to athletes, ie., in patients who are smokers and lack physical activity.

BONE MINERAL DENSITY IN PHYSICALLY ACTIVE WOMEN ASSESSED BY ULTRASOUND DESINTOMETRY

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Ana Marijanac

2015-05-01

Full Text Available Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and density. Physical activity has a positive effect on bone tissue, and it is recommended to prevent bone loss which comes with age. Methods: In purpose of determining bone mineral density in women who are physically active we examined 35 women divided into two groups – subjects who are premenopausal (n=20, 43.52 ± 7.56 years, and subjects who are postmenopausal (n=15, 55.89 ± 5.48. The subjects exercised Pilates method twice a week for one hour. Bone mineral density measurements were done by ultrasound densitometer „Sahara“ through the calcaneus. We get the data of the estimated bone density and T-score for right and left foot separate. Results: According to results premenopausal women have normal bone density, and postmenopausal values represent osteopenia, according to the WHO. There is no subjects who established osteoporosis. Discussion: Previous investigations have confirmed that physical activity is important for the preservation of the bone quality. Increasing steps, using simple everyday tasks, can prevent decrease in BMD in postmenopausal women (Muir et al., 2013, Ashe et al, 2008. There’s difference in the density of the calcaneus between physically active and those who are not, measured by ultrasound densitometry (Vainionpää et al, 2005. We use quantitative ultrasound densitometry to describe BMI of women who exercise Pilates and support the finding that physical activity is one of the ways that may prevent the BMD loss. These research was done as a part of long-term project entitled „Impact of physical activity of the working population“ which is co-financed by Provincial Secretariat for Science and Technological Development.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus with early phase acute inflammatory protein on serum protein electrophoresis

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ET Tuladhar

2012-03-01

Full Text Available Background: The onset of Type 2 diabetes has been associated with low grade systemic inflammation. The inflammatory status has been studied by measuring acute phase reactant proteins like hsCRP, α1- antitrypsin, α1-acid glycoprotein, ceruloplasmin, fibrinogen. Most of these acute phase reactants form α1 and α2 bands on electropherogram of serum proteins. The aim of this study was to evaluate inflammatory status in controlled and uncontrolled type 2 diabetes using cellulose acetate electrophoresis and to find the impact of glycemic status as indicated by HbA1c on inflammation process. Materials and Methods: Serum protein electrophoresis was done on serum samples of 60 cases of Diabetes [controlled and uncontrolled] using cellulose acetate paper technique. The electropherogram obtained was stained with Ponseu S and then quantitated using densitometer. Glycemic status was studied by HbA1c analysis. The density of α1and α2 bands in electropherogram were correlated with HbA1c level. Result: A significant increase in the percentage of α1 and α2 band proteins (0.765 and 0.716, p<0.001 were found with the increasing level of HbA1c. With cutoff of HbA1c 7% (American Diabetic Association recommended, the α1 and α2 serum proteins concentration are significantly higher (p<0.001 in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus compared to controlled diabetes mellitus Conclusion: Cellulose acetate electrophoresis of serum proteins show early phase acute inflammatory status in uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus. The process of systemic inflammation worsens with uncontrolled glycemia as indicated by HbA1c. Inflammatory status should be studied adjunct to glycemic status. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v2i3.6024 JPN 2012; 2(3: 211-214

SU-F-T-550: Radiochromic Plastic Thin Sheet Dosimeter: Initial Performance

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jordan, K [London Regional Cancer Program, London, ON (United Kingdom); Adamovics, J [John Adamovics, Skillman, NJ (United States)

2016-06-15

Purpose: Thin sheets, of a high sensitivity formulation of radiochromic dosimeter, Presage were prepared and evaluated for optical readout. Methods: Sheets of radiochromic polyurethane, 12 cm long, 10 cm wide and 0.2 cm thick were prepared with leuco crystal violet as the reporter molecule. Sample transmission was evaluated at a wavelength of 590 nm with in-house constructed instruments: optical cone beam laser CT scanner, fixed and scanning spot densitometers. Sample sequential irradiations to a total dose of 40 Gy were conducted with a modified, Theratron 60, cobalt radiotherapy machine at dose rates of 1 or 0.25 Gy per minute. Exposure to ambient and readout light was minimized to limit background photochromic signals. Samples were stored at 4°C. Optical activity was assessed from linearly polarized transmission images. Comparison sensitivity measurements with EBT3 film were conducted. Results: Samples were transparent, smooth and pale purple before irradiation. Radiochromic reaction was completed in less than 5 minutes. A linear dose response with a sensitivity of 0.5 cm-1Gy-1 was observed. Micrometer measurements found sheet thickness variations up to 20%. Uniform dose, 2 Gy attenuation images, correlated with local sheet thicknesses. Comparable measurements with EBT3 film were 3 times more sensitive at 1 Gy but above 15 Gy, EBT3 film had lower sensitivity than 0.2 cm thick Presage sheet dosimeter due to its non-linear response. Conclusion: Dose sensitivity provided a 10% decrease in transmission for a 1 Gy dose. Improvements in mold design are expected to allow production of sheets with less than 5% variation in thickness. Above, 10 Gy, Presage sheet dosimeter performance expected to exceed EBT3 film based on linearity, sensitivity, transparency and smoothness of samples. J Adamovics is owner of Heuris Inc.

Molar volumes of LiI in H{sub 2}O and D{sub 2}O solutions; Structural hydration interactions

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jakli, Gy. [KFKI Atomic Energy Research Institute, P.O. Box 49, H-1525 Budapest (Hungary)], E-mail: jakli@aeki.kfki.hu

2009-01-15

According to a recent study of the H{sub 2}O and D{sub 2}O molar volume isotope effect (MVIE) of the alkali metal chloride solutions, neither the standard nor the excess MVIE of the LiCl corresponds to the usual hydrophilic hydration characteristics of the inorganic ions above room temperatures. This phenomenon can not be rationalized by electrostriction, with the collapse of the 'loose' tetrahedral ('ice-like') water structure due to the electrostatic (ion + dipole) interaction. It seemed possible that this unique hydration behaviour of the Li{sup +} would be stronger and could reveal further structural information with a less hydrophilic anion than the chloride. Therefore we have determined the MVIE of the LiI as a function of temperature and concentration. The densities of normal and heavy water solutions of LiI have been measured with six-figure precision at T = (288.15, 298.15, and 308.15) K from (0.03 to 4) molal, m, using a vibrating-tube densitometer. The solvent isotope effect on the apparent molar volume, as well as on the solute and solvent partial molar volumes, was evaluated. As expected, with the rationalization of the MVIE of LiI instead of the geometric structural differences of the isotopic solvents, the energetic contributions have to be considered at all the temperatures investigated. At infinite dilution, a high degree of compensation between the reversed influences of the Li{sup +} and I{sup -} on the activities of the isotopic solvents determines the MVIE. By increasing concentration, the highly asymmetric energetic interactions of the Li{sup +} and the I{sup -} with the solvent apparently result in a 'mutual salting-out' effect. At a concentration {approx}0.7m, a uniquely abrupt structural rearrangement results in a 'solvent-separated ion-pair' solution structure.

Prevalence of osteoporosis and incidence of hip fracture in women - secular trends over 30 years

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Sernbo Ingemar

2010-03-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background The number of hip fractures during recent decades has been reported to be increasing, partly because of an increasing proportion of elderly women in the society. However, whether changes in hip fracture annual incidence in women are attributable to secular changes in the prevalence of osteoporosis is unclear. Methods Bone mineral density was evaluated by single-photon absorptiometry at the distal radius in 456 women aged 50 years or above and living in the same city. The measurements were obtained by the same densitometer during three separate time periods: 1970-74 (n = 106, 1987-93 (n = 175 and 1998-1999 (n = 178, and the age-adjusted prevalence of osteoporosis in these three cohorts was calculated. Additionally, all hip fractures sustained in the target population of women aged 50 years or above between 1967 and 2001 were registered, whereupon the crude and the age-adjusted annual incidence of hip fractures were calculated. Results There was no significant difference in the age-adjusted prevalence of osteoporosis when the three cohorts were compared (P = 1.00. The crude annual incidence (per 10,000 women of hip fracture in the target population increased by 110% from 40 in 1967 to 84 in 2001. The overall trend in the crude incidence between 1967 and 2001 was increasing (1.58 per 10,000 women per year; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.17 to 1.99, whereas the age-adjusted incidence was stable over the same period (0.22 per 10,000 women per year; 95 percent confidence interval, -0.16 to 0.60. Conclusions The increased number of hip fracture in elderly women is more likely to be attributable to demographic changes in the population than to secular increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis.

Comparative study between optical densitometry and spectrophotometry for evaluation of PMMA dosimeters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Louback, Luana Trevenzoli; Meira-Belo, Luiz C.

2011-01-01

The use of dosimetric systems based on color changes in PMMA is standardized by ISO/ASTM 51276:2002(E). In a general way, the evaluation of doses in these materials is done correlating the optical absorbance of the material and the absorbed dose. Usually, the absorbance is measured using a spectrophotometer at a wavelength suitably chosen. In the present work, it was performed a comparative study between the techniques of spectrophotometry and optical densitometry in dyed PMMA dosimeters type Harwell RED 4034 and PMMA samples commercially available in Brazil. The main results of this study were the determination of the radiochromic response for different samples of PMMA and the determination of the calibration conditions using a 60 Co beam. The studied materials are suitable for use as routine dosimeters, covering the range of the 500Gy to 100kGy. A direct comparison between the red dyed PMMA and the Harwell RED 4034 Perspex showed that the stabilization time and the fading of the radiochromic information in red dyed PMMA samples is higher than in RED 4034. However, both effects occur on period of weeks, which does not preclude its routine use. Furthermore, the increase in absorbance due to exposure to radiation, determined by the difference between specific absorbance of the irradiated sample and a non-irradiated one, is significantly higher in PMMA with red dyed that the RED 4034. In fact, the amplitude of absorbance peak of a sample irradiated with red dyed PMMA 2kGy and read at 602nm has the same order of magnitude from a peak of RED 4034 irradiated with 10 kGy and read at 640nm. A direct consequence of this fact is the real possibility of using simpler equipment (optical densitometer in this case) to measure the optical absorbance and evaluates the absorbed dose. (author)

Use of quantitative ultrasonography in differentiating osteomalacia from osteoporosis: preliminary study.

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Luisetto, G; Camozzi, V; De Terlizzi, F

2000-04-01

The aim of this work was to use ultrasonographic technology to differentiate osteoporosis from osteomalacia on the basis of different patterns of the graphic trace. Three patients with osteomalacia and three with osteoporosis, all with the same lumbar spine bone mineral density, were studied. The velocity of the ultrasound beam in bone was measured by a DBM Sonic 1,200/I densitometer at the proximal phalanges of the hands in all the patients. The ultrasound beam velocity was measured when the first peak of the waveform reached a predetermined minimum amplitude value (amplitude-dependent speed of sound) as well as at the lowest point prior to the first and second peaks, before they reached the predetermined minimum amplitude value (first and second minimum speeds of sound). The graphic traces were further analyzed by Fourier analysis, and both the main frequency (f0) and the width of the peak centered in the f0 (full width at half maximum) were measured. The first and second minimum speeds of sound were significantly lower in the patients with osteomalacia than in the osteoporosis group. The first minimum speed of sound was 2,169 +/- 73 m/s in osteoporosis and 1,983 +/- 61 m/s in osteomalacia (P m/s in osteoporosis and 1,748 +/- 38 m/s in osteomalacia (P < 0.0001). The f0 was similar in the two groups (osteoporosis, 0.85 +/- 0.14 MHz; osteomalacia, 0.9 +/- 0.22 MHz; P = 0.72), and the full width at half maximum was significantly higher in the osteomalacia patients (0.52 +/- 0.14 MHz) than in the osteoporosis patients (0.37 +/- 0.15 MHz) (P = 0.022). This study confirms that ultrasonography is a promising, noninvasive method that could be used to differentiate osteoporosis from osteomalacia, but further studies should be carried out before this method can be introduced into clinical practice.

Quantitative Determination of Serum Proteins in Persons Occupationally Exposed to Radar

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kasuba, V.; Garaj-Vrhovac, V.

1998-01-01

Radio-wave communications are used extensively in the modern society. We are all subject to radio frequency radiation (RFR) created by a radio, television, wireless telephony, emergency communications, and radar. The interest in the health effects of RFR has been motivated the rapid growth in wireless communications. Recently, many investigations are headed to the influence of nonionizing electromagnetic radiation to people. The interpretation of nonionizing radiation effects depends on apsorption characteristics of biological material and on thermoregulative system of exposed persons. This article includes serum protein analysis of 14 people who work in a radar zone. All the examinees are men aged 39 in average. The average exposure period in the radar zone was 16 years (twelve hours each second day). Human serum proteins in all samples were detected by electrophoresis on cellulose acetate membranes (Cellogel 500, Chemeton, Italy) in sodium-Veronal-Veronal-TRIS buffer pH 8.6. The duration of electrophoresis was two hours at 130-140 V at 11 cm bridge. Electroferograms were stained with 0.1 % Ponceau,s (w/v) (Chemetron, Italy) in 5% trichloracetic acid (v/v). Quantitative determination, i.e. densitometry of five serum protein fractions (albumin, α 1 - , α 2 - , β 1 - and γ -globulin) was carried out by photometry at multipolar densitometer. The results show gradual decrease of albumin 58.0 - 44.0 g/l versus control (64.05 g/l), except in three examinees where the values were almost equal to the normal value. One can also observe the changes in γ -globulin levels. All examinees except one showed increase in g -globulin levels (19.0 - 30.0 g/l vs. normal 15.0 g/l). The effect of nonionizing electromagnetic and microwave radiation on those who work in related field certainly needs much more investigation. (author)

Influence of obesity on vertebral fracture prevalence and vitamin D status in postmenopausal women.

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El Maghraoui, A; Sadni, S; El Maataoui, A; Majjad, A; Rezqi, A; Ouzzif, Z; Mounach, A

2015-01-01

It is well established that weight is an important determinant of bone health. Whereas obesity is associated with increased mortality and morbidity from diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, high body weight is widely believed to be associated to hypovitaminosis D and protective against the development of osteoporosis and fracture risk. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of BMI on vitamin D status and on densitometric vertebral fractures (VFs) in a large series of asymptomatic women aged over 50 who had a VFA examination during their bone mineral density (BMD) testing. We enrolled 429 postmenopausal women (mean age, weight and BMI of 59.5 ± 8.3 (50 to 83) years, 75.8 ± 13.3 (35 to 165) kgs and 29.9 ± 5.2 (14.6 to 50.8) kg/m(2), respectively. Lateral VFA images and scans of the lumbar spine and proximal femur were obtained using a Lunar Prodigy densitometer. VFs were defined using the Genant semiquantitative (SQ) approach. Clinical risk factors of osteoporosis were collected and 25-hydroxivitamin D was measured using electrochimiluminescence (Roche). Prevalence of osteoporosis and hypovitaminosis D (obese women had a higher BMD and less proportion of women with osteoporosis and VFs grade 2/3 than lean and overweight women. The prevalence of VFs globally increased with age and as BMI and BMD declined. Stepwise regression analysis showed that the presence of osteoporosis was independently related to BMI and history of fractures while the presence of grade 2/3 VFs was independently related to age, hypovitaminosis D and years of menopause. Obese women had a higher BMD and lower prevalence of VFs. VFs were significantly related to age, hypovitaminosis D and years since menopause. However, among obese women, prevalence of VFs was increased in osteoporotic women.

Hydrodynamics of circulating and bubbling fluidized beds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gidaspow, D.P.; Tsuo, Y.P.; Ding, J.

1991-01-01

This paper reports that a review of modeling of the hydrodynamics of fluidization of bubbling beds showed that inviscid two-fluid models were able to predict a great deal of the behavior of bubbling beds because the dominant mechanism of energy dissipation is the drag between the particles and the fluid. The formation, the growth and the bursting of bubbles were predicted. Predicted wall-to-bed heat transfer coefficients and velocity profiles of jets agreed with measurements. Time average porosity distributions agreed with measurements done using gamma-ray densitometers without the use of any adjustable parameters. However, inviscid models could not correctly predict rates of erosion around tubes immersed into fluidized beds. To correctly model such behavior, granular stresses involving solids viscosity were added into the computer model. This viscosity arises due to random collision of particles. Several models fro this viscosity were investigated and the results compared to measurements of solids distributions in two-dimensional beds and to particle velocities reported in the literature. While in the case of bubbling beds the solids viscosity plays the role of a correction, modeling of a circulating fluidized bed (CFB) without a viscosity is not possible. Recent experimental data obtained at IIT and at IGT show that in CFB the solids viscous dissipation is responsible for as much as half of the pressure drop. From such measurement, solids viscosities were computed. These were used in the two fluid hydrodynamic model, to predict radial solids distributions and solids velocities which matched the experimental distributions. Most important, the model predicted cluster formation and transient internal circulation which is responsible for the favorable characteristics of CFBs, such as good wall-to-bed heat transfer. Video tape movies of computations compared favorably with high speed movies of the experiments

Assessment of RELAP5-3D copyright using data from two-dimensional RPI flow tests

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Davis, C.B.

1998-01-01

The capability of the RELAP5-3D copyright computer code to perform multi-dimensional thermal-hydraulic analysis was assessed using data from steady-state flow tests conducted at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). The RPI data were taken in a two-dimensional test section in a low-pressure air/water loop. The test section consisted of a thin vertical channel that simulated a two-dimensional slice through the core of a pressurized water reactor. Single-phase and two-phase flows were supplied to the test section in an asymmetric manner to generate a two-dimensional flow field. A traversing gamma densitometer was used to measure void fraction at many locations in the test section. High speed photographs provided information on the flow patterns and flow regimes. The RPI test section was modeled using the multi-dimensional component in RELAP5-3D Version BF06. Calculations of three RPI experiments were performed. The flow regimes predicted by the base code were in poor agreement with those observed in the tests. The two-phase regions were observed to be in the bubbly and slug flow regimes in the test. However, nearly all of the junctions in the horizontal direction were calculated to be in the stratified flow regime because of the relatively low velocities in that direction. As a result, the void fraction predictions were also in poor agreement with the measured values. Significantly improved results were obtained in sensitivity calculations with a modified version of the code that prevented the horizontal junctions from entering the stratified flow regime. These results indicate that the code's logic in the determination of flow regimes in a multi-dimensional component must be improved. The results of the sensitivity calculations also indicate that RELAP5-3D will provide a significant multi-dimensional hydraulic analysis capability once the flow regime prediction is improved

Rib fractures in chronic alcoholic men: Relationship with feeding habits, social problems, malnutrition, bone alterations, and liver dysfunction.

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González-Reimers, Emilio; García-Valdecasas-Campelo, Elena; Santolaria-Fernández, Francisco; Milena-Abril, Antonio; Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Eva; Martínez-Riera, Antonio; Pérez-Ramírez, Alina; Alemán-Valls, María Remedios

2005-10-01

Rib fractures are common in alcoholics. This high prevalence might be due to ethanol-associated malnutrition, bone disease, liver dysfunction, or the peculiar lifestyle of the alcoholic with frequent trauma and altercations. In this study we try to discern the role of these factors on rib fracture (assessed on a plain thoracic X-ray film) in 81 consecutive alcoholic patients, 25 of them cirrhotics. Serum albumin, prothrombin aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type 1 collagen, osteocalcin, insulin growth factor 1, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, estradiol, free testosterone, and corticosterone were measured, and the patients also underwent assessment of bone mineral density by a HOLOGIC QDR-2000 bone densitometer (Waltham, MA, USA). Body mass index, triceps skinfold, and brachial perimeter were also determined, and the patients and their families were asked about tobacco consumption, social and familial links, consumption of ethanol by other members of the family, kind of job, and feeding habits. Forty-two male nondrinker sanitary workers of similar age served as controls. Forty of the 81 patients showed rib fractures. There was a statistically significant association between rib fractures and disruption of social and familial links, irregular feeding habits (in bars or pubs, not at home), ethanol consumption by close relatives, and intensity of tobacco consumption, but not between rib fractures and liver function tests, nutritional parameters, or bone mineral density, besides a nearly significant trend (p = .053) with the presence of osteopenia at the femoral neck. Patients with major withdrawal symptoms at admission also presented more frequent rib fractures. We conclude that rib fractures in alcoholics are related to the peculiar lifestyle of these patients rather than to bone alterations, liver dysfunction, or nutritional status.

Effect of Raised Body Fat on Vitamin D, Leptin and Bone Mass

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fatima, S. S.; Alam, F.

2015-01-01

Objectives: To estimate leptin, vitamin D and bone mineral density levels in individuals with high fat mass, and to assess any correlation. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Basic Medical Sciences Institute, Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Centre, Karachi, and Aga Khan University, Karachi, from August 2012 to July 2014, and comprised healthy male volunteers between the ages of 18-60 years. Body fat percentage was determined using bioelectrical impedance analysis and the participants were classified as: Group A (15-21.9); Group B (22-27.9); and Group C (>28). Bone mineral density was calculated by ultrasound bone densitometer (T-score between +1 and -1 considered normal). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits were used to determine the levels of vitamin D and leptin. SPSS 19 was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 132 male subjects participated in this study, with each of the 3 groups having 44(33.3 percent). Despite all groups having low Vitamin D, a marked decrease was observed in group C compared to groups A and B (p <0.018). Bone mineral density T-score was <-1; total calcium was within normal range in all three groups. Serum leptin was raised in Group C compared to group A and B (p=0.03). Body fat percentage was negatively associated with vitamin D (p=0.004; r = -0.351), while it was positively correlated with leptin (p =0.038; r = 0.256). Conclusion: Excess of body fat percentage led to decreased vitamin D and raised leptin. However, bone mineral density and calcium levels were within normal range, suggesting that other factors might have played a role in maintaining bone mass in obese individuals, such as leptin. (author)

INFLUENCE OF HOMOCYSTEINE AND VERTEBRAL FRACTURES ON PREVALENT ABDOMINAL AORTIC CALCIFICATION IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN - A MULTICENTRIC CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

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Imad GHOZLANI

2017-08-01

Full Text Available The main of this study was to examine the relationship between plasma homocysteine (Hcy, asymptomatic osteoporotic vertebral fractures (VFs using vertebral fracture assessment (VFA and prevalent abdominal aortic calcification (AAC in Moroccan postmenopausal women. The study cohort consisted of 188 consecutive postmenopausal women with no prior known diagnosis of osteoporosis or taking medication interfering with bone metabolism. Mean age, weight, height, body mass index and plasma homocysteine were determined. Lateral VFA images and scans of the lumbar spine and proximal femur were obtained using a Lunar Prodigy Vision densitometer (GE Healthcare Inc., Waukesha, WI. VFs were defined using a combination of Genant’s semiquantitative approach and morphometry. VFA images were also scored for prevalent AAC using a validated 24 point scale. Fifty-eight (30.9% patients had densitometric osteoporosis. VFs were identified using VFA in 76 (40.4% patients: 61 women had grade 1 VFs and 15 had grade 2 or 3 VFs. One hundred twenty nine women (68.6% did not have any detectable AAC, whereas the prevalence of significant atherosclerotic burden defined as AAC score of 5 or higher, was 13.8%. A significant positive correlation between AAC score and homocysteine was observed. Women with extended AAC, were older, had a lower weight, BMI and BMD, higher homocysteine levels and more prevalent VFs than women without extended AAC. Multiple regression analysis showed that the presence of extended AAC was significantly associated with Age and grade 2/3 VFs and not independently associated with homocysteine levels.This study did not confirm that homocysteine is important determinant of extended AAC in postmenopausal women. However, this significant atherosclerotic marker is independently associated with VFs regardless of age. 

The effect of vehicles on spray drying of rifampicin inhalable microparticles: In vitro and in vivo evaluation

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2008-08-01

Full Text Available Backgrond and the purpose of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of solvents used in the spray drying and the aerodynamic properties of the rifampicin microparticles and pulmonary absorption of the microparticles. Methods: Different mixtures of dichloromethane and water were used as solvents for spray drying of rifampicin microparticles. The water to dichloromethane ratios were 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, 80:20, 90:10 and 100:0.   The solutions were dried at inlet temperature of 70 °C. The powder properties of the samples were examined by laser diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM, helium densitometer and infrared spectroscopy (IR. The aerosolization performance of these formulations was investigated using an Andersen cascade impactor. Pulmonary absorptions of formulations were examined by the in situ pulmonary absorption described by Enna and Schanker method. The plasma concentration time profiles of rifampicin were constructed 8 hours following the intravenous and the intrapulmonary administrations. The pharmacokinetics parameters, Cmax, Tmax, t1/2, AUC, mean residence time (MRT, Ka and Ke were determined for each formulations. Results and major conclusions: The Tmax values for the samples decreased by increase in the amount of water in the initial feed. The Tmax values for the spray dried samples from the different mixtures of   dichloromethane and water were 60(min and 30(min respectively. The solvent mixture as the spray drying vehicle played an important role in the in vitro and in vivo lung deposition. The type of spray drying vehicle showed significant effect on the aerodynamic behavior and pharmacokinetic parameters of the particles. The pulmonary absorption of drug revealed the possibility of achieving the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC of the antibiotics. The spray drying vehicle only affected absorption patterns of the formulations and it did not have any effect on the elimination rat of

Problems with film processing in medical X-ray imaging in Lithuania

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sniureviciute, M.; Adliene, D.

2005-01-01

Optimisation in X-ray imaging in order to reduce patient doses during diagnostic X-ray examinations is a complex process given the high level of image quality required. When quality systems are implemented as a basis for optimisation, attention should be paid to the qualifications of the staff and quality control of the equipment and of the X-ray imaging procedures, as well as to the methods used to evaluate the quality of these procedures. Until recently, quality control procedures at health care institutions in Lithuania were limited to the testing of X-ray units. Since film processing is one of the most important factors influencing patient doses and image quality during X-ray examinations, in 2003 the Kaunas department of the Radiation Protection Centre organised inspections of film processing laboratories in 11 health care institutions - hospitals and outpatient departments - in the Kaunas region. Problems of non-compliance with requirements identified during these inspections are discussed in this paper. Most of the health care institutions inspected already had quality assurance programmes. However, the implementation of these programmes was sometimes erratic because of the insufficient attention paid to the film developing processes. The worst situation was found in 4 institutions where the films were developed manually. Only 3 of the 11 departments inspected had sensitometers and densitometers for quality control of the processing. In many cases there was no control of chemicals, film sensitivity and density, or else control was irregular. In only a few departments were the effects of repeated controls investigated and discussed. Despite the current problems occurring in medical X-ray diagnostic departments in Lithuania, the situation is rapidly improving. New equipment is being installed, new devices for quality control are being used and, last but not least, the view of hospital administrators, radiologists and laboratory workers towards quality

Lumber intervertebral disk; Correlation with the signal intensity of magnetic resonance imaging and the histological changes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Uchida, Ryusei; Takahashi, Sadao; Ando, Tadashi; Kumano, Kiyoshi; Hiranuma, Kenji; Kanazawa, Yousuke; Konishi, Seiji; Eguchi, Masanobu; Tanioka, Hisaya (KantoRosai Hospital, Kawasaki, Kanagawa (Japan))

1989-11-01

We studied to provide precise correlations between the intensity of MRI signals and the degenerative changes of the nucleus pulposes of the L4/5 intervertebral disk herniations. 23 cases with the L4/5 intervertebral disk herniations having surgical treatment were examined using Magnetom H 15 (1.5 tesla) with surface coil. The images were obtained with T2 images (long TR (1000{approx}1600 msec), TE (60{approx}90 msec)). The intensity was measured using FUJI densitometer FD 101 at the lumber vertebral body and the intervertebral disk. We calculated the L4/5 intervertebral disk degeneration ratio (determined by comparing the modified L4/5 MR signal intensity with the modified L2/3 MR signal itensity). Histological changes were examined in the cellular components of the nucleus pulposus (such as the number of the nucleus cells, nucleus cell nesting and HE stainability of the nucleus cell) and the matrics substance (such as fibrillation, hyaline degeneration and granular degeneration). Histochemical studies were performed using Scott's Method (AB-0.4 M MgCl{sub 2} Alcinophilia, AB-09 M, MgCl{sub 2} Alcinophilia) to investigate glycosaminoglycans of the nucleus pulposus. We compared the histological and histochemical changes with the MR L4/5 intervetebral disk degeneration ratio. The decreasing MRI signal intensity of the nucleous pulposus was (1) corresponded to the pathological changes such as the increasing number of the cell nesting, fibrillation and hyaline degeneration of the nucleus polposus. (2) corresponded to the decrease in the total glycosaminoglycans of the nucleus pulposus. (3) corresponded to the early stage of degeneration of the nucleus polposus, but in aging when all levels of intervertebral disk degeneration appeared, we could not know the degree of the disk degeneration from the signal intensity of MRI. (J.P.N.).

Status of bone mineral content and body composition in boys engaged in intensive physical activity

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Madić Dejan

2010-01-01

Full Text Available Background/Aim. It is well known that physical activity has an anabolic effect on bone tissue. But there is a lack of information about the effect of intensive physical activity in childhood, particularly at the prepubertal stage. To examine the influence of training on body composition and bone mineral density we have studied a group of prepubertal soccer players as well as a group of inactive prepubertal boys at the starting phase of their peak bone mass acquisition. Methods. A total of 62 healthy prepubertal boys took part in this study. They were divided into two groups. The first one consisted of 32 soccer players (aged 10.7 ± 0.5 years, who had been playing football for at least 1 year (10-15 h per week. The second group a control group 30 boys (aged 11.2 ± 0.7 years doing 1.5 h per week physical activity at school. Body composition was assessed by a Body Fat Analyzer 'BES 200 Z'. Bone mineral density measurements of the left and the right calcaneus were done by using ultrasound densitometer 'Sahara' (Hologic, Inc., MA, USA. Results. There were significant differences between soccer players and the control group in fat mass (p = 0.01. Besides, a significant difference was determined between the group of athletes and the control group in bone mineral density of both calcaneal bones (p = 0.01. Conclusion. The results of this study confirm the significant effects of physical activity on reducing body mass and increasing bone density. Considering that football training can be very easily implemented in the broader population of children and young people, which does not apply to many other sports, it should be used more in the prevention of obesity and osteoporosis.

A verification methodology for in vivo dosimetry in stereotactic radiotherapy; Uma metodologia para verificacao dosimetrica in vivo em radioterapia estereotaxica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Amaral, Leonardo L.; Oliveira, Harley F.; Fairbanks, Leandro R., E-mail: leonardo.fis@usp.br [Universidade de Sao Paulo (HCFMRP/USP), Ribeirao Preto, SP (Brazil). Faculdade de Medicina. Hospital das Clinicas; Nicolucci, Patricia; Netto, Thomaz G. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (FFCLRP/USP), Ribeirao Preto, SP (Brazil). Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciencias e Letras. Departamento de Fisica

2012-12-15

Radiotherapy of brain lesions near critical structures requires a high accuracy in the location and dose. The high precision is achieved by the location of the stereotactic apparatus. The accuracy in dose delivery should be accompanied by an accurate quality control in devices that involve the practice, however, still does not guarantee the dose at the time of therapy. The large number of fields and the small size of these conventional methods difficult dosimetry during treatment. The objective of this work was to develop a verification methodology in vivo dosimetry in stereotactic radiotherapy with the aid of the film radiochromic Linear Accelerator with multi leaf collimators Moduleaf. The technique uses film segments radiochromic Gafchromic EBT2, with dimensions of 1x1 cm{sup 2} in area outside the coupled micro-multileaf Moduleaf Siemens. These films were inserted in the region of the central axis of the beam. The films were irradiated and calibrated to obtain the factors that determine the size dependence of the dosimetric field. With these data, we designed a computer program which calculates the density of a film must acquire when subjected to an exposure in this setting. This study evaluated five non-coplanar plans, the first with 15 fields and the other with 25 fields. Before starting the procedure, the film segment is coupled to the device, and after the treatment, the relative density is evaluated and compared with the calculated. The average value of the verification at the time of radiation dosimetry compared with the calculated by the sheet was 1.5%. The data collected in this study showed a satisfactory agreement between measured and calculated by the program in the densitometer. Thus, a methodology was developed to verify in vivo dosimetry in radiotherapy and stereotactic linear accelerator collimators Moduleaf. (author)

Usefulness and problems of film dosimetry in high energy radiotherapy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hirabayashi, Hisae

1995-01-01

Film dosimetry is a convenient and quick method of obtaining a set of high energy radiation isodose curves in the plane of the film, but it is an empirical method which presents some problems. Many authors have reported on film dosimetry for industrial films. Recently, the development of computerized densitometer systems, ready-pack films for radiotherapy and automatic film processors has helped improve the procedure. This paper reports our experiences regarding film dosimetry using the new materials, its usefulness in radiotherapy and some of technical problems encountered. The optical density value corresponding to a given dose depends upon the processing conditions, for XV-2 film, variation is about 4% when an automatic processor is used under controlled conditions. The Off-axis-ratios and the PDD in the perpendicular film plane agree well with the ion-chamber for photon and electron beams; by contrast, the PDD in the parallel film plane is significantly affected by variations in the phantom thickness, the type of film package and misalignment in phantom. But, bare films inserted into a cassette made of phantom material agree well for electron beams. Film dosimetry is effective and accurate at the edges of the field and for small fields, due to its high spatial resolution and rapid method. In addition, it is useful for electron beams OCR beam data input; for evaluating the input parameters for treatment planning systems; for quality assurance of the treatment equipment; and for preliminary clinical studies. Even when modern materials are used for film dosimetry, some technical problems will arise. Thus, to ensure the accuracy, certain precautions are required when setting conditions of film exposure and for quality control of the film processor. (author)

Quality assurance of the dose delivered by small radiation segments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hansen, Vebeke N.; Evans, Philip M.; Budgell, Geoffrey J.; Mott, Judith H.L.; Williams, Peter C.; Brugmans, Marco J.P.; Wittkaemper, Frits W.; Mijnheer, Ben J.; Brown, Kevin

1998-01-01

The use of intensity modulation with multiple static fields has been suggested by many authors as a way to achieve highly conformal fields in radiotherapy. However, quality assurance of linear accelerators is generally done only for beam segments of 100 MU or higher, and by measuring beam profiles once the beam has stabilized. We propose a set of measurements to check the stability of dose delivery in small segments, and present measured data from three radiotherapy centres. The dose delivered per monitor unit, MU, was measured for various numbers of MU segments. The field flatness and symmetry were measured using either photographic films that are subsequently scanned by a densitometer, or by using a diode array. We performed the set of measurements at the three radiotherapy centres on a set of five different Philips SL accelerators with energies of 6 MV, 8 MV, 10 MV and 18 MV. The dose per monitor unit over the range of 1 to 100 MU was found to be accurate to within ±5% of the nominal dose per monitor unit as defined for the delivery of 100 MU for all the energies. For four out of the five accelerators the dose per monitor unit over the same range was even found to be accurate to within ±2%. The flatness and symmetry were in some cases found to be larger for small segments by a maximum of 9% of the flatness/symmetry for large segments. The result of this study provides the dosimetric evidence that the delivery of small segment doses as top-up fields for beam intensity modulation is feasible. However, it should be stressed that linear accelerators have different characteristics for the delivery of small segments, hence this type of measurement should be performed for each machine before the delivery of small dose segments is approved. In some cases it may be advisable to use a low pulse repetition frequency (PRF) to obtain more accurate dose delivery of small segments. (author)

Comparison between film-screen and computed radiography systems in Brazilian mammography

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vieira, L.A.; Oliveira, J.R.; Carvalho, L.A.P.; César, A.C.Z.; Nogueira, M.S.

2015-01-01

Since 2004 the Public Health Office of the State of Minas Gerais in Brazil has established the Image Quality Control Program in Mammography. It evaluates the image quality based on an accredited phantom of the Brazilian College of Radiology (CBR). This phantom follows international standards such as masses, specks, fibers, contrast details and spatial resolution. The contrast index (CI) is accessed through optical density (OD) measurements. Although OD is defined under film-screen (FS) scope, among all accessible mammographic systems under the health office surveillance, almost 80% are computed radiography (CR) based. A necessity to adapt the protocol has emerged to consider OD as a conformity parameter. Objective: To verify the OD accessibility under CR´s printed out films and the feasibility to calculate contrast index, in comparison with FS´s. Results: A total of 56 images were evaluated with three different CBR phantoms. They were equally divided into FS and CR systems and a densitometer was used to read out their OD values. The correlation between their contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was found to be in the order of 0.77 (±0.14). The samples were not significantly different (inside 5% incertitude) for every phantom. The CNR correlation coefficient was 0.871. For OD, correlation coefficient was 0.989 and a log-fit function has shown good agreement with detector response. The OD-normalized standard deviation difference between CR and FS for every different phantom was 36.6%, 2.8% and 20.2%. A CI range for CR´s lying between 0.13 and 0.69 was found. Conclusions: Different phantoms were successfully tested in both CR and FS to evaluate the feasibility in use contrast index as a conformity parameter since their correlations are strictly related to calibration curve, as provided by phantom manufacturer. The relative CR-FS OD σ-difference provides a spreading indicator, where the first and last phantoms are considerably out of expectation. Such differences are

Bone mineral density and nutritional indices in adolescent females with recently diagnosed anorexia

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wong, J.C.H.; Lewindon, P.J.; Mortimer, R.; Sheperd, R.W.; Royal Children's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD

1999-01-01

Full text: Osteopenia/osteoporosis and fractures have been shown to occur with anorexia nervosa (AN). This study evaluated adolescent females diagnosed with AN less than 12 months previously to determine the presence of any significant bone mass reduction at this early stage of diagnosis and to evaluate the correlation between total body (TB) and lumbar spine (LS) bone mineral densities (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC), and nutritional indices (body weight, body mass index (BMI), lean mass, fat mass and percentage fat). The subjects were 22 adolescent females aged 12-17 years (mean= 14.3 years) diagnosed with AN less than 12 months earlier (range 2.5-11 months; mean = 6.7 months). They had bone density measurements of the TB and LS using a Lunar DPX-L densitometer. Comparison was made with values of age-matched controls in the Lunar normative database. Although there was a tendency towards low TB and LS bone mass, these changes were not statistically significant. Bivariate analyses showed significant correlation between TB BMD and lean mass (P < 0.001) and weight (P < 0.001) and between TB BMC and lean mass (P < 0.001) and weight (P < 0.01). There was similar significant correlation between LS BMD and lean mass (P < 0.01) and weight (P<0.01), and between LS BMC and lean mass (P < 0.01) and weight (P < 0.01). With stepwise regression analysis, only lean mass remained significantly correlated with TB BMD and BMC and LS BMD and BMC. There was no longer any significant correlation with weight. In this study, the weight percentile was found to be correlated highly with the LS BMD Z-score (P < 0.01). Therefore, during adolescence, the lean mass in particular, but also body weight, are good indicators of bone densities. Adolescent females do not appear to show bone mass reduction in the early stages of diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. This suggests early intervention may preserve bone gain and attainment of normal peak bone mass

Vitamin D and Calcium Intakes, Physical Activity, and Calcaneus BMC among School-Going 13-Year Old Malaysian Adolescents

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A. A. Suriawati

2016-10-01

Full Text Available Background: Dietary calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone development. Apart from diet, physical activity may potentially improve and sustain bone health. Objective: To investigate the relationship between the dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D, physical activity, and bone mineral content (BMC in 13-year-old Malaysian adolescents. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Selected public secondary schools from the central and northern regions of Peninsular Malaysia. Participants: The subjects were from the Malaysian Health and Adolescents Longitudinal Research Team Cohort study (MyHeARTs. Methods: The data included seven-day diet histories, anthropometric measurements, and the BMC of calcaneal bone using a portable broadband ultrasound bone densitometer. Nutritionist Pro software was used to calculate the dietary calcium and vitamin D intakes from the diet histories, based on the Nutrient Composition of Malaysian Food Database guidance for the dietary calcium intake and the Singapore Energy and Nutrient Composition of Food Database for vitamin D intake. Results: A total of 289 adolescents (65.7% females were recruited. The average dietary intakes of calcium and vitamin D were 377 ± 12 mg/day and 2.51 ± 0.12 µg/day, respectively, with the majority of subjects failing to meet the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI of Malaysia for dietary calcium and vitamin D. All the subjects had a normal Z-score for the BMC (−2.00 or higher with a mean of 0.55 ± 0.01. From the statistical analysis of the factors contributing to BMC, it was found that for those subjects with a higher intake of vitamin D, a higher combination of the intake of vitamin D and calcium resulted in significantly higher BMC quartiles. The regression analysis showed that the BMC might have been influenced by the vitamin D intake. Conclusions: A combination of the intake of vitamin D and calcium is positively associated with the BMC.

Fourth and final research co-ordination meeting for the coordinated research project on 'Comparative international studies of osteoporosis using isotopic techniques'. Summary report

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Iyengar, G.V.; Mokhtar, N.

2002-01-01

In 1994, the International Atomic Energy Agency started the five-year Co-ordinated Research Project (CRP) on Comparative International Studies of Osteoporosis Using Isotope Techniques. The objectives of this study were: To harmonize the techniques of measuring BMD within the participating countries and to obtain data that can be compared between the different study groups (countries); To determine whether early adult PBM varies between populations over the age range from 15 to 50 years. In other words, to determine the age of peak bone mass in selected populations from developing countries; To explore environmental and nutritional contributions to any determined differences. Further information about the purpose and scope of the CRP may be found in the report of the Advisory Group Meeting (AGM) held in 19921 and other reports of this CRP. Since the last RCM held in 1998, the CRP participants have gathered up more data on BMD. Indeed 3488 subjects 15-50 years) have been recruited for the purpose of this project and have been stratified equally by sex and age into six -year age bands. Most of the participants have also completed collecting data on dietary intake, medical history, physical exercise, and lifestyle, as suggested in the VrHO questionnaire. Some participants have analyzed trace elements in a number of bone samples as well. One of the most important purposes of this CRP is to obtain harmonized data on BMD that is comparable from one study group to another. To ensure this quality insurance, the densitometers in each center were cross calibrated using a European Spine Phantom (ESP). Further-more, day-to-day control of DEXA machines was managed by each individual center. The fourth Research Co-ordination Meeting (RCM) for participants of the CRP, which is the subject of the present report, was held at the University of Sheffield Medical School; WHO Collaborating Center for Metabolic Bone Diseases in Sheffield, UK from 28 Feb. to 3 March 2000

Instrument performance in bone density testing at five Australian centres

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Khan, K M; Saul, A; Wark, J D [Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC (Australia). Department of Medicine; Henzell, S L [Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA (Australia). Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes; Broderick, C [University of NSW, Sydney, NSW (Australia); Prince, R L [University of Western Australia, Perth, WA. (Australia). Department of Medicine; Lomman, J [Bone Densitometry Technologist, Ashford, SA (Australia)

1997-10-01

Using a multicentre reliability study the accuracy and short- and long-term precision of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in vitro was compared on five instruments. Measures were performed using pencil beam mode on four Hologic QDR- 2000 densitometers and one Hologic QDR-1000/W (Hologic Inc, Waltham, MA). Short-term precision of bone mineral density measurement was less than 0.5% for spine phantoms (n= 10 for each centre, mean intrasite coefficient of variation [CV] 0.39{+-}0.09% [SD]) and for hip phantoms (n=10 for each centre, mean intrasite coefficient of variation [CV] 0.34{+-}0.10% [SD]). Between-centre measurement (n=10 for each phantom) of a single spine phantom and a single hip phantom (specified mineral contents - 58.5 g and 38.6 g, respectively) revealed ranges of bone mineral content of 57.7-58.1 g (all-point CV=0.52%) and 37.1-37.8 g (all-point CV=0.70%), respectively. When results from pairs of machines were compared there were statistically different mean BMD results for the majority of the ten possible pairings for both spine and hip measurements. Each study centre measured in vitro stability of phantom BMD measurements over a one year period (n=45-283, median 157 for spine; and n=0-262, median 38, for hip); CVs ranged from 0.38 % to 0.53% for the spine measurements and from 0.38 % to 0.54% for the hip measurements. The mean all-point accuracy of the spine phantom measurements was 99.1% and the hip phantom measurements was 96.7%. It is concluded that across a number of instruments assessed in this study, DXA demonstrates in vitro all-point precision of 0.5% for the spine phantom and 0.7% for the hip phantom. The instrument demonstrates accuracy of greater than 99% at the spine and 96% at the hip (authors). 14 refs., 3 tabs., 4 figs.

Dose Distribution and Characterization for Radiation Fields of Multileaf Collimator System

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chu, Sung Sil; Kim, Gwi Eon

1996-01-01

Purpose : Multileaf collimator(MLC) is very suitable tool for conformal radiotherapy and commissioning measurements for a multileaf collimator installed on a dual energy accelerator with 6 and 10MV photons are required. For modeling the collimator with treatment planning software, detailed dosimetric characterization of the multileaf collimator including the penumbra width, leaf transmission between leaf leakage and localization of the leaf ends and sides is an essential requirement. Measurement of characteristic data of the MLC with 26 pair block leaves installed on CLINAC 2100C linear accelerator was performed. Low sensitive radiographic film(X-omatV) was used for the penumbra measurement and separate experiments using radiographic film and thermoluminescent dosimeters were performed to verify the dose distribution, Measured films were analyzed with a photo densitometer of WP700i scanner. For 6 and 10 MV x-ray energies, approximately 2.0% of photons incident on the multileaf collimator were transmitted and an additional 0.5% leakage occurs between the leaves. Localizing the physical end of the leaves showed less than 1mm deviation from the 50% decrement line and this difference is attributed to the curved shaped end on the leaves. One side of a single leaf corresponded to the 50% decrement line, but the opposite face was aligned with a lower value. this difference is due to the tongue and groove used to decrease between leaf leakage. Alignment of the leaves to form a straight edge resulted larger penumbra at far position from isocenter as compare with divergent alloy blocks. When the MLC edge is stepped by sloping field, the isodose lines follow the leaf pattern and produce scalloping isodose curves in tissue. The effective penumbra by 45 degree stepped MLC is about 10mm at 10cm depth for 6MV x-ray. The difference of effective penumbra in deep tissue between MLC and divergent alloy blocks is small (5mm). Using the characteristic data of MLC, the MLC has the

An Experimental Study of Oil / Water Flow in Horizontal Pipes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Elseth, Geir

2001-07-01

The purpose of this thesis is to study the behaviour of the simultaneous flow of oil and water in horizontal pipes. In this connection, two test facilities are used. Both facilities have horizontal test sections with inner pipe diameters equal to 2 inches. The largest facility, called the model oil facility, has reservoirs of 1 m{sub 3} of each medium enabling flow rates as high as 30 m{sub 3}/h, which corresponds to mixture velocities as high as 3.35 m/s. The flow rates of oil and water can be varied individually producing different flow patterns according to variations in mixture velocity and input water cut. Two main classes of flows are seen, stratified and dispersed. In this facility, the main focus has been on stratified flows. Pressure drops and local phase fractions are measured for a large number of flow conditions. Among the instruments used are differential pressure transmitters and a traversing gamma densitometer, respectively. The flow patterns that appear are classified in flow pattern maps as functions of either mixture velocity and water cut or superficial velocities. From these experiments a smaller number of stratified flows are selected for studies of velocity and turbulence. A laser Doppler anemometer (LDA) is applied for these measurements in a transparent part of the test section. To be able to produce accurate measurements a partial refractive index matching procedure is used. The other facility, called the matched refractive index facility, has a 0.2 m{sub 3} reservoir enabling mainly dispersed flows. Mixture velocities range from 0.75 m/s to 3 m/s. The fluids in this facility are carefully selected to match the refractive index of the transparent part of the test section. A full refractive index matching procedure is carried out producing excellent optical conditions for velocity and turbulence studies by LDA. In addition, pressure drops and local phase fractions are measured. (author)

Modulation of tenascin Genes expression in pig skin and muscular fibrosis after ionizing radiation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Geffrotin, C.; Tricaud, Y.; Castelli, M.; Crechet, F.; Lefaix, J.L.; Vaiman, M. [Institut National de Recherches Agronomiques (INRA-CEA-DSV-DRR) Laboratoire de Radiologie Appliquee, 78 - Jouy-en-Josas (France)

1997-03-01

To study mechanisms leading to radiation-induced fibrosis, a complication which may occur after radiotherapy or radiation accidents, a model of local irradiation of skin in pig has been set up. It is characterized by the development of a cutaneous and muscular fibrosis within 5 months following a single dose of at least 140 Grays at the point of application of a collimated {sup 192}Ir source (2 cm in diameter). Accumulation of myo-fibroblasts, increased synthesis and deposition of components of the extra cellular matrix (ECM), such as collagens, fibronectin and hyaluronan were described in this model. We present here a study of the expression of the tenascin C and X (TN-C and TN-X) molecules which belong to a new family of glycoproteins of the ECM that has never been analysed in this context. A single dose of 160 Grays (0,6 Gy/mn) at the point of application of the {sup 192}Ir source was delivered on the right thigh of 4 Large While pigs. The animals were killed 9 to 11 months after irradiation and samples from unirradiated skin, repaired fibrotic skin and underlying muscular fibrotic tissue were recovered. TN-C and TN-X RNAs were analysed by the RNase protection and Northern blot methods using porcine cDNA probes. Analysis of TN-C protein was performed by Western blot technique using a polyclonal antibody raised against human TN-C. RNAs and proteins were quantified with the PhosphorImager SI and the Imaging Densitometer GS-700 from Biorad respectively. In conclusion, these data confirmed our previous observations about the independence of the regulatory mechanisms involved in the level of TN-X and TN-C mRNAs. As the TN-C gene is highly expressed both at the RNA and the protein levels, its products might play an important role both in the initiation and the chronic extension of radiation-induced fibrosis by modulating mechanism such as adhesion, migration or proliferation of cells. (authors)

A fast neutron and dual-energy gamma-ray absorption method (NEUDEG) for investigating materials using a 252Cf source

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bartle, C. Murray

2014-01-01

DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorption) is widely used in airport scanners, industrial scanners and bone densitometers. DEXA determines the properties of materials by measuring the absorption differences of X-rays from a bremsstrahlung tube source with and without filtering. Filtering creates a beam with a higher mean energy, which causes lower material absorption. The absorption difference between measurements (those with a filter subtracted from those without a filter) is a positive number that increases with the effective atomic number of the material. In this paper, the concept of using a filter to create a dual beam and an absorption difference in materials is applied to radiation from a 252 Cf source, called NEUDEG (neutron and dual-energy gamma absorption). NEUDEG includes absorptions for fast neutrons as well as the dual photon beams and thus an incentive for developing the method is that, unlike DEXA, it is inherently sensitive to the hydrogen content of materials. In this paper, a model for the absorption difference and absorption sum in NEUDEG is presented using the combined gamma ray and fast neutron mass attenuation coefficients. Absorption differences can be either positive or negative in NEUDEG, increasing with increases in the effective atomic number and decreasing with increases in the hydrogen content. Sample sets of absorption difference curves are calculated for materials with typical gamma-ray and fast neutron mass attenuation coefficients. The model, which uses tabulated mass attenuated coefficients, agrees with experimental data for porcelain tiles and polyethylene sheets. The effects of “beam hardening” are also investigated. - Highlights: • Creation of a dual neutron/gamma beam from 252 Cf is described. • An absorption model is developed using mass attenuation coefficients. • A graphical method is used to show sample results from the model. • The model is successfully compared with experimental results. • The importance of

Vitamin D and nutritional status are related to bone fractures in alcoholics.

Science.gov (United States)

González-Reimers, Emilio; Alvisa-Negrín, Julio; Santolaria-Fernández, Francisco; Candelaria Martín-González, M; Hernández-Betancor, Iván; Fernández-Rodríguez, Camino M; Viña-Rodríguez, J; González-Díaz, Antonieta

2011-01-01

Bone fractures are common in alcoholics. To analyse which factors (ethanol consumption; liver function impairment; bone densitometry; hormone changes; nutritional status, and disrupted social links and altered eating habits) are related to bone fractures in 90 alcoholic men admitted to our hospitalization unit because of organic problems. Bone homoeostasis-related hormones were measured in patients and age- and sex-matched controls. Whole-body densitometry was performed by a Hologic QDR-2000 (Waltham, MA, USA) densitometer, recording bone mineral density (BMD) and fat and lean mass; nutritional status and liver function were assessed. The presence of prevalent fractures was assessed by anamnesis and chest X-ray film. Forty-nine patients presented at least one fracture. We failed to find differences between patients with and without fractures regarding BMD parameters. Differences regarding fat mass were absent, but lean mass was lower among patients with bone fracture. The presence of fracture was significantly associated with impaired subjective nutritional evaluation (χ² = 5.79, P = 0.016), lower vitamin D levels (Z = 2.98, P = 0.003) and irregular eating habits (χ² = 5.32, P = 0.02). Reduced lean mass and fat mass, and altered eating habits were more prevalent among patients with only rib fractures (n = 36) than in patients with multiple fractures and/or fractures affecting other bones (n = 13). These last were more closely related to decompensated liver disease. Serum vitamin D levels showed a significant relationship with handgrip strength (ρ = 0.26, P = 0.023) and lean mass at different parts of the body, but not with fat mass. By logistic regression analysis, only vitamin D and subjective nutritional evaluation were significantly, independently related with fractures. Prevalent fractures are common among heavy alcoholics. Their presence is related more closely to nutritional status, lean mass and vitamin D levels than to BMD. Lean mass is more reduced

Bone mineral content reduction in youth with surgical form of Schistosomiasis mansoni: factors involved in the pathogenesis

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Brandt Carlos Teixeira

2001-01-01

Full Text Available Thirty two children and adolescents from 14 to 20 years of age, suffering from hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni and bleeding esophageal varicose veins, were evaluated for bone mineral density (BMD, before undergoing medical and surgical treatment. The surgical protocol was splenectomy, autoimplantation of spleen tissue into a pouch of the major omentum and ligature of the left gastric vein. Follow up of these patients? ranges from one to ten years with a mean of five years. The BMD was measured at the lumbar spine (L2 - L4 through the dual energy absorptionmetry X-ray (DEXA, using a LUNAR DPX-L densitometer. The degree of Symmers´ fibrosis was assessed by semiautomatic hystomorphometry. In eleven patients, the serum magnesium was measured before an intravenous overload of this ion and subsequently after eight and twenty four hours. Urine was collected 24 hours before and 24 hours after the magnesium overload. Deficiency of magnesium was considered when the uptake of this ion was greater than 40%. There was a significant trend of association between the status of bone mineral content and the Symmers´ fibrosis degree (c² = 6.606 R = 0.01017. There was also a moderate agreement between the greater fibrosis densities ( > the mean percentage and bone mineral deficits. Although the normal bone mineral content was more found among the patients with better hepatic functional reserve, the results did not reach statistical significance. There was a marked magnesium retention (>95% in one patient who had severe osteoporosis and a slight depletion (<5% in another patient, who presented no bone mineral deficit. It was concluded that the patients included in this series, showed an important BMD deficit, specially among the females which has had a significant improvement after medical and surgical treatment. Bone mineral deficit was associated with the degree of Symmers´ fibrosis. Magnesium depletion was present in two out of eleven patients. It is

Reliability of a two-wavelength autofluorescence technique by Heidelberg Spectralis to measure macular pigment optical density in Asian subjects.

Science.gov (United States)

Obana, Akira; Gellermann, Werner; Gohto, Yuko; Seto, Takahiko; Sasano, Hiroyuki; Tanito, Masaki; Okazaki, Shigetoshi

2018-03-01

This study evaluates the accuracy of an objective two-wavelength fundus autofluorescence technique for the purpose of measuring the macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in Asian pigmented eyes. Potential differences between MPOD values obtained via autofluorescence technique and subjective heterochromatic photometry (HFP) were examined. Inter-examiner reproducibility between three examiners and test-retest reliability over five time points were also explored. Subjects were 27 healthy Japanese volunteers aged 24 to 58 (mean ± standard deviation, 40.2 ± 9.0) years. An MPOD module of the Spectralis MultiColor instrument configuration (Spectralis-MP) was used for the autofluorescence technique, and a Macular Metrics Densitometer (MM) was used for HFP. The mean MPOD values at 0.25° and 0.5° eccentricities using the Spectralis-MP were 0.51 ± 0.12 and 0.48 ± 0.13, respectively. In comparison, the MM based values were 0.72 ± 0.23 and 0.61 ± 0.25, respectively. High correlations between the Spectralis-MP and MM instrument were found (Pearson's correlation coefficients of 0.73 and 0.87 at 0.25° and 0.5° eccentricities, respectively), but there was a systematic bias: the MPOD values by MM method were significantly higher than those by Spectralis-MP at 0.25° eccentricity. High inter-examiner reproducibility and test-retest reliability were found for MM measurements at 0.5° eccentricity, but not at 0.25°. The Spectralis-MP showed less inter-examiner and test-retest variability than the MM instrument at 0.25° and 0.5° eccentricities. We conclude that the Spectralis-MP, given its high agreement with the HFP method and due to its higher reproducibility and reliability, is well suited for clinical measurements of MPOD levels in Asian pigmented eyes. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Studies of osteoporosis in Singapore using isotope related technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bose, K.; Goh, J.; Lee Soon Tai; Shamal Das De

1996-01-01

The main objectives of this study will be to determine the bone density in selected populations for the purposes of i)determining the age of peak bone mass in each study group and ii)quantifying the differences in bone density as functions of the age and sex of persons in the study group as well as quantifying the differences between study groups in different countries. Normal healthy subjects of both sexes across the age range of 15-50 will be recruited for this programme. There will be at least 15 subjects in each 5 year age range (i.e. a total of 105 subjects of each sex). The subjects will be of urban residency. The project will take a maximum of five years. Volunteers will be recruited from the hospital personnel and their friends and relatives. The subjects will be healthy individuals with no history of fractures and they should not be on any medication which may affect the bone density. A questionnaire regarding their lifestyle factors such as exercise, coffee/tea/alcohol intake and medication be filled. The subjects will also have X-rays of the dorsolumbar spine taken to ascertain the absence of scoliosis or crush fractures. Bone mineral density will be measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry using a Norland XR-26 bone densitometer. The BMD in the L2-L4 region of the lumbar spine and right hip which includes the femoral neck, trochanter and Ward's triangle will be scanned. Body composition will also be determined by doing a whole body scan on the subjects. Autopsy samples of rib bones from healthy accident victims in the age range 20-50 years will be obtained and the biomechanical strength of these bones will be tested. Biopsy specimens of the iliac crest will also be obtained to study the differences in trace element composition between osteoporotic patients and controls. (author)

Radiologic study of the experimentally produced bone destruction and bone formation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chei, Soon Chul; Ahn, Hyung Kyu

1988-01-01

Bone destruction was induced experimentally by the insertion of a bit of the arsenic compound into the pulp chambers of the right premolars and the artificial bone defects were produced in the periapical regions of the left premolars in 7 dogs. The serial standardized periapical radiographs using aluminum stepwedge attached to the XCP instruments and resin bite blocks were taken following insertion of arsenic compound and at 2, 4, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24 and 28 days in case of bone destruction and following bone injury and weekly thereafter for a total of 14 weeks in case of bone formation . The errors of the method were determined with error estimators described by the Duinkerke. All radiographs were evaluated by the visual examination after joint evaluation by three dental radiologists and analysed with densitometer. The following results were obtained; 1. Analysis of the bone destruction process 1) The error of the method in estimating two distances proved to be small (S.D. for the measuring error; 0.04 mm, S.D. for the over-all error; 0.06 mm, S.D. for the positioning error; 0.05 mm) 2) The radiographic changes were observed after 7 days in 6 cases, 4 days in 1 case and 10 days in 1 case by the visual examination. 3) Aluminum equivalent values were diminished after 2 days and the diminution of 0.58 ± 0.19 mm was demanded to be detected by the visual examination. 2. Analysis of the bone formation process 1) The error of the method in estimating two distances proved to be small (S.D. for the measuring error; 0.03 mm, S.D. for the over-all error; 0.04 mm, S.D. for the positioning error; 0.04 mm) 2) The radiographic changes were observed after 2 weeks in 5 cases and 3 weeks in 2 cases by the visual examination. 3) Aluminum equivalent values were increased after 1 week and the increase of 0.45 ± 0.15 mm was demanded to be detected by the visual examination. 4) Aluminum equivalent values were increased continuously for 7 or 9 weeks but there was only extremely small

Peak bone mass and bone mineral density correlates for 9 to 24 year-old Mexican women, using corrected BMD Pico mineral óseo y factores asociados a la densidad mineral ósea en mujeres mexicanas de 9 a 24 años de edad usando densidad mineral ósea corregida

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Gabriela Torres-Mejía

2009-01-01

Full Text Available OBJECTIVE: To determine the age of peak bone mass (PBM in Mexican women and factors associated with both BMDa and corrected BMD (BMDcorr at the femoral neck and the spine (L2-L4. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data on 461 women between 9 and 24 years old was used. An interview was performed and height and weight were measured. BMDa was measured by a densitometer and BMDcorr by the method proposed by Kröger et al. (1992. RESULTS: PBM at the spine (L2-L4 was observed later than at the femoral neck. Both BMDa and BMDcorr at the lumbar spine correlate with age, socio-economic status, body fat percentage and height. BMDa at the femoral neck correlates with overweight and obesity, body fat percentage, height and moderate physical activity; the same variables were associated with BMDcorr except for height. CONCLUSIONS: The method proposed by Kröger et al. was more precise at the femoral neck than at the spine.OBJETIVO: Determinar la edad del pico de masa ósea (PMO y los factores asociados a DMOa y a DMOcorr del cuello femoral y de la columna vertebral (L2-L4 en mujeres mexicanas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se utilizaron datos de 461 mujeres de 9 a 24 años de edad. La DMO se midió mediante un densitómetro y la DMOcorr mediante el método propuesto por Kröger et al. (1992. RESULTADOS: El PMO en la columna vertebral (L2-L4 se observó más tarde que en el cuello femoral. A la DMOa y DMOcorr de la columna se asociaron: edad, estado socio económico, porcentaje de grasa corporal y la talla. A DMOa del cuello femoral se asociaron: sobrepeso y obesidad, porcentaje de grasa corporal, talla y actividad física moderada; las mismas variables se asociaron con la DMOcorr excepto talla. CONCLUSIONES: El método propuesto por Kröger et al. fue más preciso para el cuello femoral que para la columna.

Prevalence and related risk factors of osteoporosis in peri- and postmenopausal Indian women.

Science.gov (United States)

Aggarwal, Neelam; Raveendran, Ainharan; Khandelwal, Niranjan; Sen, Ramesh Kumar; Thakur, J S; Dhaliwal, Lakhbir Kaur; Singla, Veenu; Manoharan, Sakthivel Rajan Rajaram

2011-07-01

We undertook this study involving 200 peri- and postmenopausal women to determine the prevalence of osteoporosis, and in turn increase the awareness, education, prevention, and treatment of osteoporosis. Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, UT Chandigarh, India, and a clinical study. A detailed medical, obstetrical, menstrual, and drug history was recorded in a proforma designated for the study. Height and weight was measured, weight-bearing exercise was assessed, and sunlight exposure per day for each woman was recorded. Food intake was estimated by using the 24-hour dietary recall method, and calcium and vitamin D consumption pattern was assessed. Bone mineral density (BMD) at postero-anterior lumbar spine and dual femurs was assessed by densitometer. Women were classified according to the WHO criteria. Student's t-test, multiple logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of low BMD was found in more than half of this population (53%). The mean age in group I (normal BMD) was found to be 50.56 ± 5.74 years as compared to 52.50 ± 5.94 in group II with low BMD (P=0.02). The two groups were similar with respect to parity, education, socioeconomic status, family history of osteoporosis, hormone replacement therapy, and thyroid disorders. 46.8% of the women in group I and 33% of the women in group II had low physical activity and there was no statistically significant difference in sunlight exposure between the groups. Parity or the number of children and type of menopause was not seen to have much association with low BMD in our study. Lack of exercise and low calcium diet were significantly associated with low BMD. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age, exercise, menopause, and low calcium diet acted as significant predictors of low bone density. The findings from the study suggest the need for large community-based studies so that high-risk population can be picked up and early interventions and other life style changes can

[Sufficiency with water-soluble vitamins and state of bone in pregnant women].

Science.gov (United States)

Vrzhesinskaya, O A; Pereverzeva, O G; Gmoshinskaya, M V; Kodentsova, V M; Safronova, A I; Korosteleva, M M; Aleshina, I V; Fandeeva, T A

2015-01-01

Vitamin status and bone strength have been estimated in 91 pregnant women (29.3 ± 4.6 years old) from Moscow by non-invasive methods. Sufficiency with vitamins C, B2, B6 has been evaluated by morning urinary excretion of ascorbic acid, riboflavin and 4-piridoxic acid determined by visual titration and fluorimetric methods. The rate of bone resorption has been measured by the ratio of urinary calcium and creatinine, determined by complexometric titration and spectrophotometrically. The study of the bone strength has been conducted using an ultrasonic densitometer (the speed of the ultrasonic waves along the cortical layer). The lack of vitamin C was found in 20.4% .of the women surveyed, vitamin B2--in 27.4%. Vitamin B6 deficiency was detected most frequently (90%). Excretion of vitamins B2 and B6 in women in the third trimester of pregnancy was lower as compared with the women in the first and second trimester. In 53.3% of the women surveyed an increase in urinary excretion of calcium per creatinine has been observed. Excretion of group B vitamins (especially vitamin B6, 1.75 fold, p vitamin supplements was higher compared to non-taking vitamins that indicates the better sufficiency of the organism with these vitamins. Among women who took vitamin complexes, inadequate supply with water-soluble vitamins C, B2 and B6 was detected less frequently (the difference was significant for vitamin B2) than among women who did not intake vitamin complexes (in 11.9, 27.7 and 42.4% vs 16.1, 54.8 and 48.8 %). The rate of bone resorption (Ca/creatinine) in women taking vitamins was smaller (0.19 ± 0.09 vs 0.24 ± 0.14, p > 0.05). Ca/creatinine ratio was within normal range in 40% of women who intake vitamins, while in women not taking vitamins--only in 22.2%; this value exceeded the upper limit of norm in the rest. The strength of bone was broken in women in the second and third trimester of pregnancy, having worse supply of vitamins. The percentage of agreement of the results

Expression of serum insulin-like growth factors, insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins, and the growth hormone-binding protein in heterozygote relatives of Ecuadorian growth hormone receptor deficient patients.

Science.gov (United States)

Fielder, P J; Guevara-Aguirre, J; Rosenbloom, A L; Carlsson, L; Hintz, R L; Rosenfeld, R G

1992-04-01

Recently, an isolated population of apparent GH-receptor deficient (GHRD) patients has been identified in the Loja province of southern Ecuador. These individuals presented many of the physical and biochemical phenotypes characteristic of Laron-Syndrome and are believed to have a defect in the GH-receptor gene. In this study, we have compared the biochemical phenotypes between the affected individuals and their parents, considered to be obligate heterozygotes for the disorder. Serum GH, insulin-like growth factor I and II (IGF-I and IGF-II) levels were measured by RIA Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins. (IGFBPs) were measured by Western ligand blotting (WLB) of serum samples, following separation by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and relative quantitation of serum IGFBPs was performed with a scanning laser densitometer. Serum GH-binding protein (GHBP) levels were measured with a ligand-mediated immunofunctional assay using a monoclonal antibody raised against the GHBP. These values were then compared to values obtained from normal, sex-matched adult Ecuadorian controls, to determine if the above parameters were abnormal in the heterozygotes. The serum IGF-I levels of the GHRD patients were less than 13% of control values for adults and 2% for children. However, the IGF-I levels of both the mothers and fathers were not significantly different from that of the control population. The serum IGF-II levels of the GHRD patients were approximately 20% of control values for adults and 12% for the children. The IGF-II levels of the mothers were reduced, but were not significantly different from that of the control population. However, IGF-II levels of the fathers were significantly lower than those of controls (64% of control male levels). WLB analysis of serum IGFBP levels of the affected subjects demonstrated increased IGFBP-2 and decreased IGFBP-3, suggesting an inverse relationship between these IGFBPs. The GHRD patients who had the

Centro de Medicina Nuclear da Guanabara, CMNG, Rio de Janeiro. Activities, safety and radiation protection in medical practices

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rocha, A. F.G.; Loureiro, M.V.D.M.; Santos, C.S.B.; Costa, T.S.; Maciel, O. S.; Rozental, J.J.

2008-01-01

Full text: The Center of Nuclear Medicine of Guanabara (CMNG), established in the city of Rio de Janeiro, is a private company who acts for more than 30 years in the area of images and nuclear medicine diagnosis using radioactive tracers for examinations initially 'in vivo' and treatment of the hyperthyroid and thyroid cancer, and later extending its area of activities using equipment producing ionizing or non-ionizing radiation. The CMNG has installed and operated the first computerized tomography in the city of Rio de Janeiro by the year 70, and now also implementing its activities by operating a PET-CT (positron emission tomography). In the City of Rio de Janeiro, from the head quarter, the CMNG manages several offices localized in important points of the City. At the present time the CMNG works with sophisticated equipment as tomography's, mammography's, densitometers, X-Ray and fluoroscopy. The CMNG's PET equipment is connected to a computerized multislice tomography that use the integration of anatomical information provided by the CT scan with the metabolic ones allows to the accomplishment of the two methods sequentially supplied by the PET, increasing the certainty in the localization of the results found in the examinations. In such a way it improves significantly the accuracy, the sensitivity of the negative predictive value of both the methods separately. Still in the medical diagnosis for images, but without the use of ionizing radiations, the CMNG operates diverse devices as ultrasound and nuclear magnetic resonance. To operate all the systems the CMNG has equipped with multi discipline of professionals, being included doctors, pharmacists', biologists, biomedical, engineers, and specialists in computer science, quality control and staff of technical level properly trained for support tasks. The purpose to present this paper is to attend the call for papers contained in the institutional objective of the IRPA 12 Congress for exchange of experience and

Prevalence and correlates of osteoporosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients in India

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jyothi Hattiholi

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD is a syndrome of progressive airflow limitation caused by the abnormal inflammatory reaction of the airway and lung parenchyma. Osteoporosis is one of the major extrapulmonary manifestations of COPD. The, prevalence of osteoporosis in COPD patients in Indian population is unknown. Objectives: To study the prevalence of osteoporosis in COPD and to define various risk factors associated with reduced bone mineral density (BMD in COPD. Materials and Methods: The study was done in the department of Pulmonary Medicine of a tertiary care hospital. All the diagnosed cases of COPD according to the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD guidelines were included in this study. The present study was a prospective study in for a period of 1 year. A brief history of the patients was taken, especially regarding duration of illness, number of exacerbations in the past 3 years, smoking in pack years, and history of steroid use (both systemic and inhaled steroids after which cumulative dose of steroids was calculated. Spirometry was done in all these patients to stage the severity of COPD according to GOLD criteria. DEXA scan of the lumbar spine was done using bone densitometer to determine osteoporosis. A world Health Organization (WHO criterion for definition of osteoporosis was applied and patients with T-score of > –2.5 standard deviation (SD were diagnosed to have osteoporosis, –1 SD to –2.5 SD were diagnosed to have osteopenia and 3 (OR: 30.3, 95% CI: 4.74-200, P 1,000 mg (OR: 7.35, 95% CI: 0.92-58.5, P < 0.04 were observed to be significant risk factors for osteoporosis in COPD patients. Conclusions: In the present study, the prevalence of osteoporosis was 66.6% and another 19.6% had osteopenia. As the severity of COPD increased, the risk of osteoporosis increased. GOLD stage III and stage IV patient had significantly lower BMD as compared to stage I and stage II of COPD disease

COMPUTATIONAL AND EXPERIMENTAL MODELING OF SLURRY BUBBLE COLUMN REACTORS

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Paul C.K. Lam; Isaac K. Gamwo; Dimitri Gidaspow

2002-05-01

The objective of this study was to develop a predictive experimentally verified computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for gas-liquid-solid flow. A three dimensional transient computer code for the coupled Navier-Stokes equations for each phase was developed and is appended in this report. The principal input into the model is the viscosity of the particulate phase which was determined from a measurement of the random kinetic energy of the 800 micron glass beads and a Brookfield viscometer. The details are presented in the attached paper titled ''CFD Simulation of Flow and Turbulence in a Slurry Bubble Column''. This phase of the work is in press in a referred journal (AIChE Journal, 2002) and was presented at the Fourth International Conference on Multiphase Flow (ICMF 2001) in New Orleans, May 27-June 1, 2001 (Paper No. 909). The computed time averaged particle velocities and concentrations agree with Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) measurements of velocities and concentrations, obtained using a combination of gamma-ray and X-ray densitometers, in a slurry bubble column, operated in the bubbly-coalesced fluidization regime with continuous flow of water. Both the experiment and the simulation show a down-flow of particles in the center of the column and up-flow near the walls and nearly uniform particle concentration. Normal and shear Reynolds stresses were constructed from the computed instantaneous particle velocities. The PIV measurement and the simulation produced instantaneous particle velocities. The PIV measurement and the simulation produced similar nearly flat horizontal profiles of turbulent kinetic energy of particles. To better understand turbulence we studied fluidization in a liquid-solid bed. This work was also presented at the Fourth International Conference on Multiphase Flow (ICMF 2001, Paper No. 910). To understand turbulence in risers, measurements were done in the IIT riser with 530 micron glass beads using a PIV

Shielding the spinal cord is necessary when junctioning abutting fields with independent collimation in head and neck radiotherapy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rosenthal, David I.; McDonough, James; Kassaee, Alireza

1997-01-01

Purpose: Asymmetric collimation is a relatively new method of junctioning abutting fields with non-diverging beam edges. When this technique is used at the junction of lateral and low anterior fields in three field head and neck set ups, there should, in theory, be a perfect match. There should be no overdose or underdose at the match line. We have performed dosimetric measurements to evaluate the actual dosimetry at the central axis. Materials and Methods: X-ray verification film was placed in a water-equivalent phantom at a depth of 4 cm, corresponding to an isocentric distance of 100 cm. A double exposure technique was used to mimic two half-beam blocked fields abutting at the central axis. Each half of the film was irradiated with 50 monitor units using a 6 MV photon beam. One of the collimators was set to an off-axis position to force a gap or overlap of the radiation fields at the isocenter in increments of 1 mm. The films were scanned with a laser densitometer with a resolution of 300 μm. The beam profiles were evaluated at the region of overdose or underdose around the match line. Results: The dose on the central axis varied linearly from - 50% (field gap of 3 mm) to + 50% (field overlap of 3 mm). Surprisingly, the width (defined as a full-width, half-maximum, FWHM) of the region of overdose or underdose around the match line is 3 mm for field gaps or overlaps of 1 and 2 mm. The width of the region is 4.5 mm for field gaps or overlaps of 3 mm. The larger than expected width of this region is due to the addition of the two abutting penumbras. Conclusion: Asymmetric collimation with half-beam blocks may overdose the spinal cord. Calibration specifications generally allow for a 1 mm tolerance in the position of each independent jaw. In a calibrated machine, this could lead to a 2 mm field overlap. A field overlap of just 1 mm results in a FWHM region of overdose measuring 3 mm with a maximum dose of 140%. To our knowledge, there are no current recommendations

Measurement and modelling of high pressure density and interfacial tension of (gas + n-alkane) binary mixtures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pereira, Luís M.C.; Chapoy, Antonin; Burgass, Rod; Tohidi, Bahman

2016-01-01

Highlights: • (Density + IFT) measurements are performed in synthetic reservoir fluids. • Measured systems include CO_2, CH_4 and N_2 with n-decane. • Novel data are reported for temperatures up to 443 K and pressures up to 69 MPa. • Predictive models are tested in 16 (gas + n-alkane) systems. • Best modelling results are achieved with the Density Gradient Theory. - Abstract: The deployment of more efficient and economical extraction methods and processing facilities of oil and gas requires the accurate knowledge of the interfacial tension (IFT) of fluid phases in contact. In this work, the capillary constant a of binary mixtures containing n-decane and common gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrogen was measured. Experimental measurements were carried at four temperatures (313, 343, 393 and 442 K) and pressures up to 69 MPa, or near the complete vaporisation of the organic phase into the gas-rich phase. To determine accurate IFT values, the capillary constants were combined with saturated phase density data measured with an Anton Paar densitometer and correlated with a model based on the Peng–Robinson 1978 equation of state (PR78 EoS). Correlated density showed an overall percentage absolute deviation (%AAD) to measured data of (0.2 to 0.5)% for the liquid phase and (1.5 to 2.5)% for the vapour phase of the studied systems and P–T conditions. The predictive capability of models to accurately describe both the temperature and pressure dependence of the saturated phase density and IFT of 16 (gas + n-alkane) binary mixtures was assessed in this work by comparison with data gathered from the literature and measured in this work. The IFT models considered include the Parachor, the Linear Gradient Theory (LGT) and the Density Gradient Theory (DGT) approaches combined with the Volume-Translated Predictive Peng–Robinson 1978 EoS (VT-PPR78 EoS). With no adjustable parameters, the VT-PPR78 EoS allowed a good description of both solubility and

The effects of barium sufate and iodide compound on the characteristics of dental acrylic resins

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, Yong Keun; Lee, Keon Il; Jung, Sung Woo

1996-01-01

Aspiratin or swallowing foreign bodies is a common occurrence. If they are wholly or partly radiopaque, their localization in and progress through the gastrointestinal tract can be more effective. Of the dental origin foreign materials swallowed, the most common things are fragments of anterior maxillary partial denture. But the radiopacity of denture base resins is not sufficient to determine the location of the objects. The purpose of this study was to develop a radiopaque dental acrylic resin, which has clinically detectable radiopacity with minimal change of mechanical properties and color. the radiopacity, color change (CIE E) and microhardness of acrylic resins were determined after mixing barium sulfate or iolide compound. Thermocycling course was conducted to deter mine the change of characteristic of resins after using for a long time I the mouth. Five or ten percent of barium sulfa te to total weight of cured material was mixed with heat curing dental acrylic resin or chemically curing orthodontic re sin. In the case of iodide compound, the mixing ratio was two or three percent. After mixing the high radiopaque material s, resin was cured to 20X20X2 mm plate, polished with 600 sand paper and finally polished with Microcloth (Buehler). T he specimens were thermocycled in 5 and 55 degree distilled water for 2,000 times, and the measurement of radiopacity, color and Vickers hardness was repeated every 500 times thermocycling. The radiopacity of specimens on the X-ray films was measured with densitometer (X-rite). The color change was determined with differential colorimeter (Model TC-6FX, Tokyo Denshoku), and the Vickers hardness number was measured with microhardness tester (Mitsuzawa). The following results were obtained : 1. All the three variables, the kinds of acrylic resins, the mixing or the kinds radiopaque materials and thermocycling , had combined effect on the radiopacity of the dental acrylic resins (p<0.01). 2. The two variables, the mixing or

International Benchmark on Pressurised Water Reactor Sub-channel and Bundle Tests. Volume II: Benchmark Results of Phase I: Void Distribution

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rubin, Adam; Avramova, Maria; Velazquez-Lozada, Alexander

2016-03-01

This report summarised the first phase of the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission Benchmark based on NUPEC PWR Sub-channel and Bundle Tests (PSBT), which was intended to provide data for the verification of void distribution models in participants' codes. This phase was composed of four exercises; Exercise 1: steady-state single sub-channel benchmark, Exercise 2: steady-state rod bundle benchmark, Exercise 3: transient rod bundle benchmark and Exercise 4: a pressure drop benchmark. The experimental data provided to the participants of this benchmark is from a series of void measurement tests using full-size mock-up tests for both Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) and Pressurised Water Reactors (PWRs). These tests were performed from 1987 to 1995 by the Nuclear Power Engineering Corporation (NUPEC) in Japan and made available by the Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organisation (JNES) for the purposes of this benchmark, which was organised by Pennsylvania State University. Twenty-one institutions from nine countries participated in this benchmark. Seventeen different computer codes were used in Exercises 1, 2, 3 and 4. Among the computer codes were porous media, sub-channel, systems thermal-hydraulic code and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) codes. It was observed that the codes tended to overpredict the thermal equilibrium quality at lower elevations and under predict it at higher elevations. There was also a tendency to overpredict void fraction at lower elevations and underpredict it at high elevations for the bundle test cases. The overprediction of void fraction at low elevations is likely caused by the x-ray densitometer measurement method used. Under sub-cooled boiling conditions, the voids accumulate at heated surfaces (and are therefore not seen in the centre of the sub-channel, where the measurements are being taken), so the experimentally-determined void fractions will be lower than the actual void fraction. Some of the best

PROPOSAL OF RATIONAL SCREENING FOR OSTEOPOROSIS IN THE PRIMARY CARE SETTING

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rok Hren

2002-12-01

Full Text Available Background. Early identification of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis by means of bone mineral density (BMD measurement is a prerequisite for reducing the incidence of osteoporotic fractures. Primary care physicians have a leading role in referring such patients, however, given the cost of the BMD measurement, efficient screening criteria remain to be determined. Currently available criteria (e. g., SCORE, ORAI are very broad with low specificity. Objective of our study is to assess simple decision rules that could enhance identifying patients with high risk of fracture while concurrently minimizing number of unnecessary measurements.Methods. In the study, 357 primary care physicians (GPs and gynecologists referred their patients to BMD measurements based on the following decision rules: women (i should be postmenopausal for at least 5 years, (ii should have body mass index (BMI less than 26 kg/m2, and (iii should have never been diagnosed with osteoporosis. BMD of lumbar spine and/ or hip was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA in 5 centers using Hologic (Hologic Corp., Bedford, MA or Lunar (Lunar Corp., Madison, WI densitometers. Results of BMD measurements were expressed in terms of the T-score and were forwarded to the primary care physicians.Results. 2339 postmenopausal women participated in the study; by the end of the study, 327 physicians (92% reported results on 2196 women (94%. 1332 women of 2196 (61% were identified as osteoporotic, 637 (29% as osteopenic, and 227 (10% had normal BMD. Approximately 30% of patients with osteoporosis suffered from previous low-trauma fracture. Among all women, the prevalence of osteoporosis was 34% for ages less than 55 years, 50% for ages 55–59 years, and 69% for ages above 60 years. The number of DXA measurements needed to detect one osteoporotic patient among women older than 60 years and with BMI < 24.5 kg/m2 was 1.32.Conclusions. Results of our study suggest that three simple

The effects of barium sufate and iodide compound on the characteristics of dental acrylic resins

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lee, Yong Keun; Lee, Keon Il; Jung, Sung Woo [Dept. of Oral Radiology, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University, Iksan(Korea, Republic of)

1996-08-15

Aspiratin or swallowing foreign bodies is a common occurrence. If they are wholly or partly radiopaque, their localization in and progress through the gastrointestinal tract can be more effective. Of the dental origin foreign materials swallowed, the most common things are fragments of anterior maxillary partial denture. But the radiopacity of denture base resins is not sufficient to determine the location of the objects. The purpose of this study was to develop a radiopaque dental acrylic resin, which has clinically detectable radiopacity with minimal change of mechanical properties and color. the radiopacity, color change (CIE E) and microhardness of acrylic resins were determined after mixing barium sulfate or iolide compound. Thermocycling course was conducted to deter mine the change of characteristic of resins after using for a long time I the mouth. Five or ten percent of barium sulfa te to total weight of cured material was mixed with heat curing dental acrylic resin or chemically curing orthodontic re sin. In the case of iodide compound, the mixing ratio was two or three percent. After mixing the high radiopaque material s, resin was cured to 20X20X2 mm plate, polished with 600 sand paper and finally polished with Microcloth (Buehler). T he specimens were thermocycled in 5 and 55 degree distilled water for 2,000 times, and the measurement of radiopacity, color and Vickers hardness was repeated every 500 times thermocycling. The radiopacity of specimens on the X-ray films was measured with densitometer (X-rite). The color change was determined with differential colorimeter (Model TC-6FX, Tokyo Denshoku), and the Vickers hardness number was measured with microhardness tester (Mitsuzawa). The following results were obtained : 1. All the three variables, the kinds of acrylic resins, the mixing or the kinds radiopaque materials and thermocycling , had combined effect on the radiopacity of the dental acrylic resins (p<0.01). 2. The two variables, the mixing or

Quantitative assessment of radiation-induced lung changes by computerized optical densitometry of routine chest x-rays

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bentzen, Soeren M.; Skoczylas, Jerzy Z.; Overgaard, Marie; Overgaard, Jens; Nielsen, Ole G.; Madsen, Erik Hjoellund

1996-01-01

Purpose: To develop a quantitative assay of radiological lung changes after postmastectomy radiotherapy applicable for analysis of routine chest x-rays. Methods and Materials: The assay relies on measurement of the optical density of chest x-rays by means of a standard personal computer-controlled film densitometer used for scanning dosimetry films. Density profiles were recorded at 1 mm steps along two reference lines in each lung. The crossing between the clavicula and the first rib in the x-ray projection was used as an easily identifiable anatomical landmark and was used to establish two parallel cranio-caudal reference lines separated by 20 mm. The starting point for recording optical densities was 5 mm below a line perpendicular to the reference lines and tangent to the top of the lung. Data were stored in a computer file for subsequent processing. The optical film densities in the apex of the lungs were converted into equivalent absorber thickness (EAT). To minimize the dependency on technical factors, the unirradiated lung was used as a control. Lung density changes were quantified by the relative change in EAT (REAT), which was evaluated as the difference between the summed EATs along the reference lines in the two lungs, corrected for any pretreatment difference in lung density, and taken as a percentage of the pretreatment EAT value of the lung. Results: Four different tests were carried out to investigate the reproducibility and validity of the proposed assay. (a) An anthropomorphic phantom was used to test the relationship between REAT and the layer of plastic absorber placed in front of one lung. A linear relationship was found with a correlation coefficient of 0.9993. (b) A series of 10 repeat measurements of the same arbitrarily chosen x-ray showed a mean REAT value of 9.8%, with a standard deviation of 0.21%. (c) Forty-three chest x-rays exposed on the same day were available from the clinical series. These were treated as double determinations of

[Role and functional spectrum of HPTLC in a hospital pharmaceutical quality control program].

Science.gov (United States)

Bourget, P; Perello, L; Demirdjian, S

2001-02-01

As part of the development of a quality assurance program (QAP), a high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis unit was installed in the pharmacy department at Gustave-Roussy. The HPTLC-CAMAG consists of: 1) an HPTLC-Vario development chamber for optimization of the mobile phases; 2) TLC Sampler III automated sample applicators; 3) solid teflon migration chambers, i.e., horizontal tanks that enable separation to be carried out either in sandwich or in saturation mode; 4) a TLC Scanner 3 densitometer controlled by CATS 4 software; and 5) a Pentium MMX 233 MHz personal computer with an external backup unit. HPTLC quantitative and qualitative analysis has now reached a remarkably high level of development and performance. The samples (aqueous or non-aqueous solutions) that are to be processed are automatically applied by spraying (50-300 nl) in calibrated bands of a few mm (with up to 64 3-mm bands per 10 x 20 cm plate) on high-performance stationary phases and of wide technological diversity. The chromatogram is obtained in 10 min, and run over a migration pathway of 5-6 cm. The plates are read by absorption-reflection or fluorescence-reflection at an ad hoc wavelength (190-800 nm), then the peak areas which have been scanned are calculated by the trapezoid method. The calibration curves are generated by Michaelis-Menten non-linear regression, and validated by internal quality control. The analytical yield is high, i.e., up to 50 assays and 250 determinations per day. HPTLC analysis covers a wide functional range, and can be used in the following ways: 1) as a teaching tool for separative analysis and GLP; 2) it is an invaluable method for the optimization of mobile phases and for the determination of absorption spectra and absorption maxima, with a view to developing HPLC methods in complex matrices; 3) it provides major support for post-production quality control of prescribed hospital preparations of all types, e.g., those connected with parenteral

Efeito do tamoxifeno no perfil das proteínas plasmáticas em condição de diabetes mellitus tipo 1 Effect of tamoxifen on plasma proteins in diabetes mellitus type 1

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Teresa Cristina P. Silva

2005-01-01

with tamoxifen. The electrophoresis was accomplished in cellulose acetate. pH 8.6-8.8, TECNOW chamber, and the strains were stained by Ponceau S. The total proteins were determined by the Biuret method (Labtest. Proteinograms were obtained in densitometer BioSystems BTS-235. RESULTS: Albumin decreased progressively in the groups T, D and DT; á1 fraction increased in groups T and DT; á2 fraction increased in groups T and D, including a synergic effect in group DT; â fraction increased in groups T and D; ã fraction increased in groups T, D and DT. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate an acute phase resposta, with synergic effect of tamoxifen and diabetes, suggesting a probable hepatic lesion.

Germany [Summary country report on coordinated research project on development of protocols for corrosion and deposit evaluation in large diameter pipes by radiography

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2008-01-01

Full text: In the framework of the CRP, Germany provided certified stepped film density strips for the calibration of film densitometers. They were used by each participant in his own country to validate the density measurements made in the radiographs prepared from the test specimen. According to the working plan, BAM belongs to Group 2 (8 and 12 inch pipe diameter, Co 60 available). The necessary raw pipe material was ordered and the corresponding drawings for machining were prepared in 2003. Because of weight and handiness it was decided to cut each of the two pipes into 2 halves, i.e. one half with outer steps and the other half with inner steps. In this way, a total number of 4 pipes were produced. As material, steel St-52 was chosen, the maximum wall thickness was 26 mm. The film exposure was finalized in October 2003. As radiation source, Co 60 was used and, as detector, AGFA D7 films with front/back screens of 0.5 mm Fe. Two different inspection methods have been applied: tangential projection technique (TRT) for absolute wall thickness measurements and double wall penetration technique (DWT) for estimation of wall thickness differences in the pipe centre. The combination of Fe screens with AGFA D7 films gives an excellent image quality with very low noise, but needs about double exposure time as compared with Pb screens. After film exposure, the evaluation of the films started. Wall thicknesses and optical film densities have been measured according to the recommended procedures as agreed at the expert meetings. In parallel Excel data sheets were developed for easy data evaluation and for the comparison of results provided by the different participating countries. The final Excel sheets for data evaluation and data collection have been distributed to the other CRP participants at the end of 2003. All films have been digitized at BAM Berlin. The digitized films have been evaluated also by special software, developed together with BASF for the German

Low radiation dose impact on human bone mineral density

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zaichick, V.E.

2002-01-01

Immediately after the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant disaster it was assumed that osteoporosis would develop in a few young adult males (the so-called 'cleaners') who took part in the cleanup operations. The following factors were taken into consideration: Low external irradiation of whole body including skeleton; Non-uniform irradiation of thyroid and parathyroid glands by iodine radionuclides, as well as the different radiosensitivity of these organs (imbalance of parathormone and calcitonine); Intoxication from lead dropped from helicopters into the destroyed reactor as well as cadmium, a constituent of the nuclear reactor construction (a suppressive action of Pb and Cd on normal growth and the functioning of osteoblasts); Chronic stress arising in the cleaners following a huge amount of negative information from the mass media about the unhealthy consequences of exposure (imbalance of Ca-regulating hormones, including an excess of glucocorticoids). Despite substantiated assumption, all the efforts of national and international programs during the after-disaster period were mostly aimed at early diagnoses of thyroid and blood diseases. No attention was paid to osteoporosis problems of the cleaners. Only since 1997, the DXA method (Bone Densitometer LUNAR DPX-L) has been used to determine spinal and femoral BMD. To date, 162 men aged 30 to 50 have been examined, that is, those who were 18 to 35 years old during cleanup operations. In addition, the total body composition (tissue, fat, lean, BMD, BMC) as well as height and body mass was determined by DXA in every subject. A control group consisted of 188 randomly selected healthy men of the same age. Using the T score and the WHO recommendation changes in either spinal or femoral BMD that could be classified as osteopenia (77 cleaners, 47.5 %) and osteoporosis (9 cleaners, 5.6 %) were found in 86 of 162 cleaners. No great changes in height and body composition were found in cleaners. The incidence of osteopenia and

Unit of stable isotopic N15 analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cabrera de Bisbal, Evelin; Paredes U, Maria

1997-01-01

active roots. The location of areas with higher density of absorbent roots and the way as they vary with the stations. The inorganic fertilizers can be substituted, in certain measure, by other sources of nutriments that are available in the town or that are less expensive. As well as the leguminous and other families, in symbiosis with the appropriate microorganisms can use the atmospheric N 2 directly. The N 1 5 isotopic techniques are really reliable to obtain quantitative and integrated fixed nitrogen values, either in natural or agricultural systems. Besides the supply of nutriments, the water is one of the main restrictive factors for the domestic agricultural production. The application of radiation techniques using neutron probe and gamma densitometers allows the development of methods to handle rain waters under agricultural drought conditions or to improve the efficiency of the irrigation use of water. The Stable Isotopes N 1 5 Analysis Laboratory, of the Laboratory Unit of the Agroecologic Resources Investigations Institute (IIRA), of CENIAP, provides from its foundation, a valuable service support to the investigation of nitrogen fertilization, aswell as alternative nitrogen sources (biological fixation), and in the development of water handling methods. The laboratory was installed in 1989, with the collaboration of the International Atomic Energy Agency. This laboratory is in capacity to analyze N 1 5 in water, land and vegetable tissue. The number of samples analyzed through these eight years of activities is 2000, being beneficiaries of this service diverse national agricultural research institutions (UCV, IVIC, LUZ and FONAIAP). The projects that have been assisted by the laboratory cover the areas previously mentioned, promoting the generation and deepening of knowledge, which helps to obtain a maximum efficiency in the use of nitrogen fertilizers and water, in the main domestic cropping systems [es

A comparative study of the work involved in measuring profiles using ion chambers, a linear diode array and film

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rykers, K.L.; RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC; Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW; Geso, M.; Brown, G.M.; Olilver, L.D.

1996-01-01

Full text: The usefulness of film to perform dosimetric measurement is a topic often discussed and not clearly agreed upon. While single point measurement detectors give consistent and reliable results for physically wedged fields they cannot be easily used to measure intensity modulated fields. In this work a method of using film to measure profiles for dynamically wedged (DW) fields is presented. The method of positioning film for the subsequent generation of a conversion function to allow for the variation in films' response with energy is outlined. Furthermore, the profiles determined by film measurement are compared with those measured with single point measurement detector and an array of silicon diodes. Both Leavitt et. al. 8 and Weber et. al. 7 have reported on the successful use of the linear diode array (LDA) in measuring dynamic wedge data. This claim will be investigated. The film used in this work was Kodak X-Omat V. The solid water was RW3 with high water equivalency in the range from 137 CS to 50 MV for photons and electrons. All films were processed in an automatic processor. Both the Wellhoefer and the Scanditronix RFA 300 densitometers were used to take film readings. Wedged field and open field profiles measurements were taken in water using both the Wellhoefer IC-10 chamber, the Scanditronix RFA 300 RK chamber and the Scanditronix LDA . The energy investigated was 6 MV at 1.5, 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 20.0 cm for a Varian 2100C machine. More consistent density readings were obtained when films were processed with the edge of the film that was parallel to the beam axis was fed into the processor first; rather than when the beam incident edge was fed into the processor first. Comparing the position of the central axis (CAX) of open films from the geometric method developed in this work to the software determined CAX (as available with the Wellhoefer software), it was found that the difference in CAX positions varied between -0.03 to +0.04 cm at 2.5 cm

Efecto de dos programas de actividad física en el medio acuático con diferente impacto, sobre el índice de rigidez óseo y el nivel de actividad física en mujeres postmenopáusicas y osteopénicas de Toledo. (Effects of two aquatic physical activity programs with different impact, on stiffness index and physical activity level in postmenopausal and osteopenic women from Toledo.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Fernando Navarro Valdivielso

2010-07-01

. There are two components that affect bone strength: bone quantity, measured as bone mass density (BMD, and bone quality, which can be measured as bone stiffness index (SI. It is recommended impact and strength training to improve bone mineral density (BMD. Water-based exercise is unclear about the effect on BMD. The same goes for SI. Sixty elderly women (57,7 + 6,18 years old were divided into two groups: a swimming group (GN, trained in deep water; b impact and resistance group (GIR trained in shallow water. The training was carried out during 6 months, 2 days per week during 45 minutes per session. BMD were measured by an ultrasound portable densitometer device (Lunar Achilles Express. Physical activity level was assessed with an uniaxial accelerometer (MTI actigraph. Antropometric measured were also assessed. There were no significance differences between groups in any of the measured variables neither at the beginning nor after six months of training. A significant decrease was observed on weight (p less than0,05 in GIR after the 6-month protocol. A six months water-based exercise with two sessions per week seems to be not enough neither to increase BMD nor to change physical activity habits in postmenopausal women.

Damping and fluidelastic instability in two-phase cross-flow heat exchanger tube arrays

Science.gov (United States)

Moran, Joaquin E.

An experimental study was conducted to investigate damping and fluidelastic instability in tube arrays subjected to two-phase cross-flow. The purpose of this research was to improve our understanding of these phenomena and how they are affected by void fraction and flow regime. The model tube bundle had 10 cantilevered tubes in a parallel-triangular configuration, with a pitch ratio of 1.49. The two-phase flow loop used in this research utilized Refrigerant 11 as the working fluid, which better models steam-water than air-water mixtures in terms of vapour-liquid mass ratio as well as permitting phase changes due to pressure fluctuations. The void fraction was measured using a gamma densitometer, introducing an improvement over the Homogeneous Equilibrium Model (HEM) in terms of void fraction, density and velocity predictions. Three different damping measurement methodologies were implemented and compared in order to obtain a more reliable damping estimate. The methods were the traditionally used half-power bandwidth, the logarithmic decrement and an exponential fitting to the tube decay response. The decay trace was obtained by "plucking" the monitored tube from outside the test section using a novel technique, in which a pair of electromagnets changed their polarity at the natural frequency of the tube to produce resonance. The experiments showed that the half-power bandwidth produces higher damping values than the other two methods. The primary difference between the methods is caused by tube frequency shifting, triggered by fluctuations in the added mass and coupling between the tubes, which depend on void fraction and flow regime. The exponential fitting proved to be the more consistent and reliable approach to estimating damping. In order to examine the relationship between the damping ratio and mass flux, the former was plotted as a function of void fraction and pitch mass flux in an iso-contour plot. The results showed that damping is not independent of mass

Lifestyle changes after osteoporotic fractures in elderly women Mudanças dos hábitos de vida após fratura por osteoporose em mulheres idosas

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Marcelo Medeiros Pinheiro

2003-10-01

Full Text Available OBJECTIVE: health promotion and disease prevention activities directed to osteoporosis might help to reduce the rate of osteoporotic fractures among elderly people. METHODS: in order to check whether osteoporotic women modify their habits after the fracture, 518 postmenopausal white Brazilian elderly women were recruited from the outpatient clinic of the Rheumatology Division (122 of them with fracture and were followed for one year. Questionnaire of evaluation was based on the European Vertebral Osteoporosis Study (EVOS and inquiries about topics related to falls, bone mass and fracture. Lateral thoracic and lumbar radiographs were taken according to a standard protocol in order to verify vertebral fracture. Bone mineral density was measured using a bone densitometer (Lunar DPX, Madison, WI. Women's behavior was analyzed before and after the fracture. RESULTS: before the fracture, 34% of them had poor health perception, 40.2% walked at least half an hour per day, 14.7% used canes, 56.6% complained of dizziness, 59.6% scattered rugs, 78.9% used public transportation, 21.1% used car, and 36.8% wore leather instead of rubber sole. After the fracture, 66.4% of those women had worse health perception; 69.7% became more sedentary, 27.9% used more canes, 63.4% complained of more dizziness, 38.3% removed rugs, 68.1% changed from public to private car transportation, and 55.7% modified their shoes from leather to rubber sole. Risk factors related to bone mass did not change before and after the fractures. CONCLUSIONS: these findings suggested that women modify only lifestyle habits related to falls but not those related to bone mass after osteoporotic fracture. Further research is needed in order to check which intervention strategies may lead to better results in preventing osteoporotic fractures.OBJETIVO: atividades de promoção de saúde e prevenção direcionadas para osteoporose podem ajudar a reduzir a taxa de fraturas osteoporóticas na popula

Calidad del hueso en mujeres de edad mediana con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 Bone quality in middle-aged females with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Alina Acosta Cedeño

2008-04-01

. OBJECTIVE: to determine the quality of bones in middle-aged females with type 2 diabetes mellitus. METHODS: a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted to determine the bone quality in 30 females with type 2 DM, and in 20 without DM that were in the control group. Medical history was made to know age, body mass index, hip circumference and physical activity. In the diabetic, the time of evolution of diabetes mellitus, fasting glycaemia and 2-hour postprandial glycaemia, were also determined. Bone quality was defined by "LEXUS" densitometer, and it was expressed as bone mineral content and T-score in L2-L4 and radius. The World Health Organization's criteria were used to define osteoporosis. Descriptive statistics and lineal correlations were also used. RESULTS: 33 % of the patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus had osteoporosis in radius, and 3.3 % in L2-L4, which occurred in 75 and 30 % of the non-diabetic, respectively. The bone mineral content in L2-L4 of the diabetic was 0.561 g/cm2, whereas in radius it was 0.358 g/cm2. In the non-diabetic, it was 0.285 and 0.313 g/cm², respectively (p 18.5 kg/cm² cs and the hip circumference > 88 cm with the bone mineral content. There was a negative association between the T-score in Radius and fasting glycaemia ³ 7 mmol/L, and between the time of evolution > 5 years and the bone mineral content in L2-L4 (p<0.05. CONCLUSIONS: in our study, the bone quality in females with type 2 diabetes mellitus was better than in those with no diabetes mellitus.

Utilization of DXA Bone Mineral Densitometry in Ontario: An Evidence-Based Analysis.

Science.gov (United States)

2006-01-01

Systematic reviews and analyses of administrative data were performed to determine the appropriate use of bone mineral density (BMD) assessments using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and the associated trends in wrist and hip fractures in Ontario. DUAL ENERGY X-RAY ABSORPTIOMETRY BONE MINERAL DENSITY ASSESSMENT: Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry bone densitometers measure bone density based on differential absorption of 2 x-ray beams by bone and soft tissues. It is the gold standard for detecting and diagnosing osteoporosis, a systemic disease characterized by low bone density and altered bone structure, resulting in low bone strength and increased risk of fractures. The test is fast (approximately 10 minutes) and accurate (exceeds 90% at the hip), with low radiation (1/3 to 1/5 of that from a chest x-ray). DXA densitometers are licensed as Class 3 medical devices in Canada. The World Health Organization has established criteria for osteoporosis and osteopenia based on DXA BMD measurements: osteoporosis is defined as a BMD that is >2.5 standard deviations below the mean BMD for normal young adults (i.e. T-score related fragility fractures occur most often in the wrist, femur and pelvis. These fractures, particularly those in the hip, are associated with increased mortality, and decreased functional capacity and quality of life. A Canadian study showed that at 1 year after a hip fracture, the mortality rate was 20%. Another 20% required institutional care, 40% were unable to walk independently, and there was lower health-related quality of life due to attributes such as pain, decreased mobility and decreased ability to self-care. The cost of osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures in Canada was estimated to be $1.3 billion in 1993. With 2 exceptions, almost all guidelines address only women. None of the guidelines recommend blanket population-based BMD testing. Instead, all guidelines recommend BMD testing in people at risk of osteoporosis, predominantly

Micropogonias furnieri (Desmarest, 1823: estudo quali-quantitativo da variação ontogenética do padrão eletroforético de proteínas gerais do cristalino Micropogonias furnieri (Desmarest, 1823 quali-quantitative studies on ontogenetic variation of the electrophoretic patterns of eye-lens proteins

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Anna Emília Amato de Moraes Vazzoler

1985-01-01

-1, III-2, IV-1; b - comparar padrões de exemplares dentro de um estreito intervalo de comprimentos; c - comparar frações que variam, apenas para indivíduos com comprimentos a partir dos quais a concentração dessas frações já se estabilizou (II-2 e III-3 a partir de 300 mm, e I e IV-2 de 450 mm; d - comparar os padrões globais de indivíduos que integram o extrato adulto da populaçao, quando já ocorreu estabilização do número e da concentração das frações protéicas. Esta ultima estratégia (d parece ser a mais viável, tanto a nível interespecífico quando a finalidade é restrita à delimitação espacial de populações, como em estudos taxonomicos de níveis superiores, quando nao há problemas na classificação de formas jovens.In population studies based on genetic-biochemical markers, variations induced by ontogenetic development, sex and gonad maturation act as a potencial source of bias. These aspects were analysed for patterns of eye-lens proteins of Micropogonias furnieri (Sciaenidae, following electrophoregrams obtained from 546 specimens ranging from 98 and 710 mm in length, collected along the southeastern Brazilian coast (23º S - 29º21'S. Proteins were extracted in 0.9% NaCl solution, processed on cellulose acetate membranes in a bridge buffer discontinuous system trisglicine-barbital, for 25 minutes at 300 V, and stained with Ponceau S. The basic pattern obtained was divided into 4 sets and 8 fractions, that were evaluated by scanning in a ATAGO-QUICK densitometer. No differences were found in the patterns of right and left eye-lens, male and female and maturity stages for the same length class. Patterns variations related to ontogenetic development were found: set I present a decrease, while sets II, III and IV show an increase in their relative concentration. Set II showed two fractions for young (until 300-350 mm and only one for adults. Fractions I, II-1, II-2, III-3 become stable above 300-350 mm and I and IV-2 above 450

Unit of stable isotopic N{sup 1}5 analysis; La unidad de analisis isotopicos estables N{sup 1}5

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cabrera de Bisbal, Evelin; Paredes U, Maria [Fondo Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias (FONAIAP), Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias (CENIAP), Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Agroecologicos, Maracay (Venezuela)

1997-07-01

active roots. The location of areas with higher density of absorbent roots and the way as they vary with the stations. The inorganic fertilizers can be substituted, in certain measure, by other sources of nutriments that are available in the town or that are less expensive. As well as the leguminous and other families, in symbiosis with the appropriate microorganisms can use the atmospheric N{sub 2} directly. The N{sup 1}5 isotopic techniques are really reliable to obtain quantitative and integrated fixed nitrogen values, either in natural or agricultural systems. Besides the supply of nutriments, the water is one of the main restrictive factors for the domestic agricultural production. The application of radiation techniques using neutron probe and gamma densitometers allows the development of methods to handle rain waters under agricultural drought conditions or to improve the efficiency of the irrigation use of water. The Stable Isotopes N{sup 1}5 Analysis Laboratory, of the Laboratory Unit of the Agroecologic Resources Investigations Institute (IIRA), of CENIAP, provides from its foundation, a valuable service support to the investigation of nitrogen fertilization, aswell as alternative nitrogen sources (biological fixation), and in the development of water handling methods. The laboratory was installed in 1989, with the collaboration of the International Atomic Energy Agency. This laboratory is in capacity to analyze N{sup 1}5 in water, land and vegetable tissue. The number of samples analyzed through these eight years of activities is 2000, being beneficiaries of this service diverse national agricultural research institutions (UCV, IVIC, LUZ and FONAIAP). The projects that have been assisted by the laboratory cover the areas previously mentioned, promoting the generation and deepening of knowledge, which helps to obtain a maximum efficiency in the use of nitrogen fertilizers and water, in the main domestic cropping systems. [Spanish] La demanda continua y

The Role of Non-Destructive Testing in Test-Reactor Operation at the National Reactor Testing Station; Role des Essais Non Destructifs dans l'Exploitation des Reacteurs d'Essai au Centre National d'Essais de Reacteurs; Rol' nedestruktivnykh ispytanij pri ehkspluatatsii ispytatel'nykh reaktorov na natsional'noj stantsii po ispytaniyam reaktorov; Papel de los Metodos No Destructivos en la Explotacion de los Reactores de la National Reactor Testing Station

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Francis, W. C.; Brown, E. S.; Burdick, E. E.; Gibson, G. W.; Tingey, F. H. [Phillips Petroleum Company, Atomic Energy Division, Idaho Falls, Idaho (United States)

1965-10-15

The huge investment (well over $100 000 000) in the Nuclear Test Reactors at the National Reactor Testing Station and the need to operate them safely requires the highest order of quality control for reactor and test components, especially for fuel and control elements. Non-destructive testing has, therefore, assumed a very vital role in establishing the quality of these components before their use in the Test Reactors. Although many of these non-destructive tests follow well-established procedures, many unique techniques have been developed and new uses made of conventional equipment. Ultrasonic techniques have long been used at this site for detecting voids, non-bonding and internal cracking. More recently this work has been extended to the automated scanning of curved plates and to the inspection of irradiated fuel plates in the storage canals. A very interesting work has been the application of the ultrasonic technique to the detection of brittle core fracture which may occur in forming operations. A gamma-scanning technique to establish the U{sup 235} content of fuel elements has proved so reliable that it is the basis for assessing financial penalties for out-of-specification material. Radiographs of fuel plates provide core dimensions and, with densitometer scans, determine fuel distribution. Radiographing of welds is standard procedure for reactor and test loop components. Burnup of fuel and poison in test specimens may be determined each reactor cycle by the use of the Advanced Reactivity Measurement Facility (ARMF). A somewhat unusual application for a critical facility is the measurement of the boron content of fuel in the Engineering Test Reactor Critical Facility (ETRC). Eddy-current and mechanical probing of fuel-plate spacing and eddy-current gauging of oxide film thickness (corrosion) on irradiated plates have given excellent results. Additional techniques, which have proved valuable, include liquid penetrant inspection and liquid nitrogen tests for

Yttrium-90 Needles in Interstitial Beta-Ray Therapy; Les Aiguilles d'Yttrium-90 en Endo-Electron-Therapie (Betatherapie Interstitielle); ИГЛЫ ИЗ ИТТРИЯ-90 ДЛЯ ЭНДОЭЛЕКТРОННОЙ ТЕРАПИИ ВНУТРИТКАНЕВОЙ БЕТА-ТЕРАГИ; Agujas de Itrio-90 en la Endo-Electronterapia (Betaterapia Intersticial)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pierquin, B.; Mortreuil, M.; Beyer, H.; Dutreix, J.; Chassagne, D.; Galle, P.; Jammes, R. [Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires, Saclay (France)

1963-03-15

The Technical Unit for Interstitial Irradiation Therapy by Radioisotopes, of the Gustave Roussy Institute is at present studying, in collaboration with the Saclay Nuclear Centre, some therapeutic applications of interstitial beta-therapy using yttrium-90. Equipment: The needles consist of a stainless-steel tube, 1-mm diam., 0.1-mm wall thickness and 30 or 40 mm in length, closed at one end by a sharp point and at the other by a projecting head for attaching a pull-out wire. The yttrium oxide cylinders or seeds (5 mm x 0.6 mm) are irradiated for one week at a flux of 2.7 x 10{sup 12} n/cm{sup 2}s and are loaded three or five in each needle. Dosimetry: These yttrium-90 needles are supplied by the Saclay Centre with a standard activity of 1-1.5 me/cm (radioactive length). The activity is monitored both by a 4-{pi} counter and by a film densitometer. The reference dose is calculated by standard method at 2 mm from the tube wall assuming, with a certain approximation, a dose-rate of 10 rad/min for an activity of 1 me/cm. Therapeutic applications: Yttrium-90 needle radiobiology is still an almost unexplored field. The rapid fall-off in the dose beyond 3 mm from the needle wall causes difficulty in obtaining uniform distribution of irradiation in the treated tissues. In principle, the positioning of needles at 5 - 6 mm distance one from another is a possibility, but requires an implanting device capable of extremely delicate control, as an error of 1 or 2mm may cause too many hot or cold points. For that reason the authors decided to use the needles, at a first stage, in benign vascular tumours, with no biological attempt to obtain uniform irradiation of the tissue, the aim being confined to creating sclerotic areas in bands centred around the needles and separated by areas of tissue having received little or no irradiation. In this way it was-hoped to obtain an adequate sclerogenous effect in a certain number of tuberous angiomas while at the same time giving the

High-Dose Ionizing Radiation Photographic Dosimetry; Mesure, par des Methodes Photogra Phiques, de Doses Elevees de Rayonnements Ionisants; 0424 041e 0422 041e 0413 0420 0414 ; Dosimetria Fotografica de Dosis Elevadas de Radiaciones Ionizantes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Trousil, J.; Bucina, I. [Institute for Research Production and Application of Radioisotopes Prague, Czechoslovakia (Czech Republic)

1965-06-15

In this report film dosimetry of ionizing radiation in the range of 10 mr to 1000 r (for gamma and higher energy X-rays) is described. In this method two films with different emulsions, worn simultaneously in the same badge, are used. An essential feature of this technique is that the doses in the given range may be evaluated without knowing whether a higher exposure has taken place with an accuracy better than {+-} 25% over the whole dose range (confidence interval 95%). The radiation energy to which the film has been exposed can be also estimated to a good approximation. The equipment, film types and chemical processing facilitating these measurements are described. The principle of the densitometer construction, permitting measurement of film blackening with the same accuracy in the range from D = 0 to D= 6, is described. By this method the whole range of applicable film blackening may be utilized. Since no photomultiplier is used, the possible glare of the instrument is reduced to a minimum and thus it is suitable for routine standard measurements. The parameters of a dosimeter film suitable for high-dose detection are given, and the properties of high-level dosimeter FOMA and ORWO films are compared. Progress in high-dose measurements is represented by the method of inhibited development which is described below. For this purpose substances of the nitrobenzimidazole and benzotriazoletype were used in appropriate concentrations in the developer. In the case of low-sensitivity emulsions with a high silver content, this technique facilitates the measurement of exposures of gamma-radiation or X-rays of higher energy up to 10{sup 3}r or even higher if precise evaluation is not required in the range up to 100 r. The effect of inhibitors added to the developer on high- and low-sensitivity emulsions with a high silver content is shown. In the emulsions used for high-level dose measurement and processed in a developer with the addition of inhibitors, the effect of