Showing papers in "Iranian Journal of Radiation Research in 2015"

Assessment of geogenic natural radionuclide contents of soil samples collected from Ogun State, South western, Nigeria

Abstract: Background: Natural radionuclides are always present in the environment. Human exposure to the background radia�on is inevitable. It is therefore important to assess health risk associated with these radionuclides. Materials and Methods: The distribu�on of natural radionuclides 238U, 232Th and 40K in soil samples collected from all the twenty (20) local Governments headquarter areas in Ogun state, Nigeria were determined by gamma spectroscopy using a high-purity germanium detector. The measured concentra�ons were used in es�ma�ng the radiological risk pose to people living in these communi�es. Results: The ac�vity concentra�ons measured ranged between 3 ± 1 Bqkg-1(O0a) to 27 ± 6 Bqkg-1(odeda) for 238U, 10 ± 1 Bqkg-1(O0a) to 126 ± 6 Bqkg-1(Ijebu Igbo) for 232Th and 7 ± 6 Bqkg-1(Aiyetoro) to 497 ± 1 Bqkg-1(Odeda) for 40K. The mean radium equivalent calculated was 77.6 Bqkg-1 which is lower than 370 Bqkg-1 of the world average and the hazard indices calculated were lower than unity. Conclusion: The absorbed rate and annual effec�ve dose es�mated for most of the loca�ons are in good agreement with world average values except for Akomoje, Ake-Abeokuta, Ogere, Ijebu-Igbo and Odeda.

The effect of “Curcuma Longa” topical gel on radiation-induced oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer

Abstract: Background: Different treatment and protecve approaches for radiaon- induced oral mucosis have been pracced and have variees of success. Of which, radioprotecve agents, synthec or natural, have been of great interest for researchers. This study aims to evaluate the ef fect of curcuma longa topical gel as a herbal producon on mucosis induced by radiaon therapy of head and neck cancers. Materials and Methods: Thirty seven paents with head and neck cancer admi ed for radiaon therapy were selected. The paents were given curcuma longa or placebo topical gel for 8 weeks since the iniaon of the radiotherapy, and were evaluated weekly for the presence and the extent of oral mucosis. Results: No grade-3 mucosis was observed in paents who used curcuma longa topical gel, and the grade of the mucosis was significantly different between the two groups with be er effects found in case group compared to controls. No significant difference between the case and control groups was observed when comparing theme of appearing the first signs of mucosis. Oral lesions in case group were significantly smaller than that of control group. Conclusion: This study showed that the topical gel, containing curcuma longa's derivate, can effecvely reduce the oral symptoms of mucosis in paents undergoing head and neck cancer radiotherapy. This herbal drug improves the grade of mucosis and reduces the size of oral lesions resulng from radiotherapy to the head and neck region.

Optimization study for BNCT facility based on a DT neutron generator

Abstract: Background : A Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) facility, based on a DT neutron generator, with the final goal to find out a potenal, alternave, soluon to exisng BNCT treatment facilies which a re based on nuclear reactors is examined. Materials and Method s: With the aim of the MCNP4B Monte Carlo code different beam-shaping assembly (BSA) configuraons were considered. Lead was selected as reflector material while CF 2, D 2O, Fluental, PbF 4, PbF 2, BiF 3, BiF 5, MgF 2, Al 2O3, AlF 3, TiF 3, BeD 2, CaF 2 and 7 LiF were examined as spectrum shi3ers. In order to improve t he quality of the beam �tanium, nickel-60, iron andtanium alloy (Ti 6Al 14 V) were simulated as fast neutrons filters while lead and bismuth were considered as gamma filters. Results: An extensive set of calculaons performed with MCNP4B Monte Carlo code have shown that the combinaon of 7 LiF which accommodates a conic part made of D 2O, then followed by a TiF 3 layer is the opmum moderator design. The use of three different materials for further reducon of fast neutrons, thermal neutrons and gamma rays is necessary. 60

Neuroprotective effects of propolis and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on the radiation-injured brain tissue (Neuroprotective effects of propolis and CAPE)

Abstract: Background : Our purpose was to invesgate propolis and its component caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) for their anoxidant effects on the brainssue of rats exposed to ionizing radiaon (IR). Materials and Methods : Fi&y-four male albino Sprague-Dawley rats, divided into six groups, were designed as normal control group, cranial irradiaon of 5 Gray alone, irradiaon plus CAPE, irradiaon plus propolis, control groups of propolis and CAPE. Oxidave/anoxidave status indicators, lipid peroxidaon and anoxidant enzyme s, were determined by biochemical methods in homogenized brainssue of rats. Results : Malondialdehyde level, the lipid peroxidaon index, in the irradiaon alone group was found to be significantly increased compared to all of the other groups (p<0.001). Enzyme acvies of superoxide dismutase (SOD) were 504.93, 720.70 and 659.98 for irradiaon alone group, irradiaon p lus CAPE group and irradiaon plus propolis group, respecvely. Enzyme acvity of SOD in the irradiaon alone group was found to be significantly decreased compared to the groups received propolis or CAPE (p<0.003). Enzyme acvity of glutathione peroxidase was not found stascally different among all of the groups. Conclusion: Propolis and CAPE were found to be beneficial agents in protecng brainssue against IR-induced oxidave damage.

Effects of microwave electromagnetic radiations emitted from common Wi-Fi routers on rats’ sperm count and motility

Abstract: Background: Wi-Fi allows electronic devices such as laptops to exchange data or connect to a network resource. The main goal of this study was to assess the bioeffects of short term exposure to 2.4 GHz microwave radia$on emi%ed from a common Wi-Fi router on sperm quality. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into 7 groups; I, sham exposed 4 h/ day for 7days at 30 cm from the router. II, exposed for 2 h/day for 7days at 30 cm and sacrificed a0er 53 days. The exposure protocols for groups III to VII were 2h – 30 cm, 2h – 60 cm, 4 h – 30 cm, 4 h60 cm, 4 h – 30 cm (no data exchange) respec$vely. Rats in all the groups except group II, were sacrificed immediately a0er exposure and basic parameters of tes$cles weight, sperm mo$lity, morphology, count, and DNA fragmenta$on were studied. Nonparametric tests were used to detect sta$s$cally significant differences between different groups. Results: Findings of this study showed sta$s$cally significant differences between the rela$ve frequency of progressive and rapid progressive sperms in sham exposed rats compared to those of exposure groups. The tes$cles weight, DNA fragmenta$on of sperms and the frequency of sperms with normal morphology were not affected by Wi-Fi radia$on. However, sta$s$cally significant differences between sperm count of the sham exposed rats compared to those of exposure group were observed. Conclusion: Exposure to microwave radia$on emi%ed from Wi-Fi routers affects sperm parameters such as count and mo$lity which are among the key parameters determining the chance of conceiving.

Natural radioactivity in indian vegetation samples

Abstract: Background: Vegeta on (food stuff) is grown in soil that contains many radioac ve elements such as 238 U (uranium), 232 Th (thorium) and 40 K (potassium), which may get deposited either due to radioac ve fallout or/and by absorp on from the soil and can pose serious health hazards. Materials and Methods: Natural radioac vity, radiological hazards and annual effec ve dose assessment was carried out in vegeta on samples (vegetables, cereals and fruits) collected from fields and market. Gamma spectrometry using HPGe detector was used. Results: The measured specific ac vity concentra on of 238 U (uranium), 232 Th (thorium) and 40 K (potassium) varied from 10.25 ± 0.94 Bq/kg to 29.13 ± 0.69 Bq/kg, 22.20 ± 2.46 Bq/kg to 58.21 ± 1.15 Bq/kg, and 1158.4 ± 26.05 Bq/kg to 1962.2 ± 18.17 Bq/kg respec vely in various vegetable and cereal samples and varied from 2.5 ± 0.16 Bq/kg to 9.8 ± 0.15 Bq/kg, 7.4 ± 1.24 Bq/kg to 18.4 ± 1.39 Bq/kg, and 287.13 ± 11.23 Bq/kg to 815.72 ± 12.50 Bq/kg respec vely in various fruit samples studied in the present work. From these values, hazard indices, the minimum and maximum values of absorbed dose and indoor and outdoor annual effec ve doses were calculated for various samples used in the present inves ga on. Conclusion: The various values obtained were found to be within the recommended limits. The absorbed dose and annual effec ve dose for the vegetable and cereal samples in which fer lizers were used to enhance the crop yield were higher than that in fruit samples.

Evaluation of MTT and Trypan Blue assays for radiation-induced cell viability test in HepG2 cells

Abstract: Background : Cell viability is an important factor in radiaon therapy and thus is a method to quanfy the effect of the therapy. Materials and Methods : The viability of human hepatoma (HepG2) cells exposed to radiaon was evaluated by both the MTT and Trypan blue assays. The cells were seeded on 96 well-plates at a density of 1 x 10 4 cells/well, incubated overnight, and irradiated with 1-100 Gy. Results: The cell viability was decreased in a dose- andme- dependent manner when using the Trypan blue assay, but no significant changes in the response to dose could be detected using the MTT assay. It indicated that the MTT assay was not efficient at a cell density of 1 x 10 4 cells/well on 96 well-plates to determine cell viability. Subsequently, the relaonship between cell viability and lower cell density (1 x 10 3 , 3 x 10 3 , and 5 x 10 3 cells/well) was invesgated. A cell density of 1 x 10 3 was found to be the most effecve when using the MTT assay. Results show that the cell density is most important when using the MTT assay in 96 well-plates to follow in radiaon effects. Furthermore, the radiao n-induced cell viability dependent on cell density was confirmed by using the tradional Clonogenic assay. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the MTT and Trypan blue assays are rapid methods to detect radiaon-induced cell viability of HepG2 cells in about 3 days as compared with 14 days of assayme in the Clonogenic assay. To obtain accurate cell viability measures using both rapid assays, an incubaonme of at least 3 days is needed a6er irr adiaon.

The gene expression level of p53 and p21 in mouse brain exposed to radiofrequency field

Abstract: Background : Widespread and growing sources of electromagnec radiaon raised concerns aributed to the potenal adverse h ealth risk of radiofrequency fields. Given the funconal importance of the hippocampus, this study aimed to invesgate the effects of electromagnec waves radiated by mobile jammer on hippocampal expression of p21 and p53 genes as regulators of cellular apoptosis. Materials and Methods : Forty-eight male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups (n=8 each). Animals in the experimental groups were radiated at the frequencies of 900 and 1800 megahertz for a period of 30 consecuve days, while the control group remains constant during the experiment. The hippocampal expression of p21and p53 mRNAs were evaluated using Real-Time PCR. Results: There were not differences between the mean expression level of p53 and p21 genes of the exposure groups compared to those of the control group (P>0.05). The rao expression of p53 and p21 genes was increased to greater than one (p53/p21>1) in almost all experimental groups compared to controls. However, there was not significant differences between the expression level of p53 and p21 genes among the experimental groups using paired t test (p>0.05). Conclusion: Taken together, our findings demonstrate changes in hippocampal expression level of p53 and p21 a;er mo bile jammer radiaon. However, cell condion expected to remain relavely stable over the exposure period due to parallel changes of both pro- and an�- apoptoc genes at the sameme.

Dose calculations accuracy of TiGRT treatment planning system for small IMRT beamlets in heterogeneous lung phantom

Abstract: Background : Accurate dose calculaons in small beamlets and lung material have been a great challenge for most of treatment planning systems (TPS). In the current study, the dose calculaon accuracy of TiGRT TPS was evaluated for small beamlets in water and lung phantom by comparison to Monte Carlo (MC) calculaons. Materials and Methods : The head of Siemens Oncorimpression linac was simulated for 6 and 18 MV photon beams using MCNPX MC Code. The model was validated using measured percentage depth dose and beam profiles. Then, the validated model used for dose calculaons for small beamlets in water as well as lung phantoms. For treatment planning purposes, the lung phantom was scanned and imported into the TPS, and then the percentage depth dose values were obtained from plans for small fields of 1×1, 2×2, 3×3 and 4×4 cm 2 in water and lung phantom. Results: For small fields in water phantom, there was a good agreement between TPS and MC for 2×2 to 4×4 cm

Indoor exposure assessment of radon in the elementary schools, Palestine

Abstract: Background: Many public health agencies rank residenal radon exposure as the second leading cause of lung cancer aer cigaree smoking. It has been shown that the risk coefficient for lung cancer is higher for children than that for adults. Therefore, indoor radon measurements were carried out in the elementary schools of Tulkarem province, West Bank, Palesne. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and thirty solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs) type CR-39 were distributed in the classrooms of 20 elementary schools in Tulkarem province area. About thirty of them were used for quality assurance purposes. The CR-39 detectors were exposed in the schools for three months during the school summer holiday from May 2012 to August 2012 and then collected and etched in Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) 6.25 N soluon at 75 °C for 6 h. The tracks were counted manually at the digital microscope. Results: The indoor radon levels were generally low, ranging from 3.48 to 210.51 Bq/m 3 (Becquerel per cubic meter), with a mean radon concentraon (mean±SE; standard error) of 40.42± 2.49 Bq/m 3 . The average annual radon effecve dose was assessed to be (mean±SE) 0.17 ± 0.01 mSv/y (milliSievert per year) while the excess lifeme lung cancer risk was approximately 0.09%. The results obtained indicate that the indoor radon concentraon was signif icantly af fected by the fl oor level of the classroom (negavely correlated) and the school building age (posively correlated). Conclusion: The radon concentraon and the resulng dose in the schools were within the reference levels of the Internaonal Commission on Radiological Protecon (ICRP). Beer venlaon is recommended to decrease the risk to the minimum.

Radioactivity of soil at proposed rooppur nuclear power plant site in bangladesh

Abstract: Background: The concentraons and distribuons of natural and anthropogenic radioacve materials in soils of the site of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) were invesgated with the aim of evaluang the environmental radioacvity and radiaon hazard. Materials and Methods: Soil samples were collected from 40 locaons in and around the proposed site of Rooppur Power Plant and determined the acvity level by using a gamma-ray spectrometry. Results: T he concentraons of 226 Ra, 232 Th, and 40 K in soil samples, radium equivalent acvity (Raeq) for soil, absorbed dose rates, external hazard (Hex) values were determined. No arficial radioacvity ( 137 Cs) was found in these samples. Conclusion: This present study provides a baseline of radioacvity and radiaon levels in the proposed nuclear power plant site area at Rooppur. It will be ulized to correlate the radioacvity measured a1er operaon of the reactor.

Future role of vitamin C in radiation mitigation and its possible applications in manned deep space missions: survival study and the measurement of cell viability

Abstract: Background: Astronauts will be exposed to both chronic space radiaon and acute high doses of energec radiaon of solar parcle events in long-term deep space missions. The applicaon of radioprotectors in space missions has basic limitaons such as their very shortme windo w as well as their acute toxicity and considerable side effects. The aim of the present study was to invesgate the potenal radiaon migaon effect of vitamin C that is known as an effecve anoxidant and free radical scavenger . Materials and Methods: One hundred twenty male Wistar albino rats weighing 250-300 g were randomized into the following study groups: I, control; II, Only exposure to gamma-radiaon (LD 50/30 ); treated with a single dose of vitamin C, III, 1h before irradiaon, IV, V and VI, 1h, 12h and 24 h a3er irradiaon. Measurement of cell viability and proliferaon was also performed by using MTT cell proliferaon assay. Results: The survival rate in animals received vitamin C 1h, 12h and 24h a3er irradiaon were 55%, 60%, and 80%, respecvely. The viability of cells in animals received vitamin C 1h, 12h and 24h a3er irradiaon were 94.9%, 99.0%, and 100%, re specvely. The viability of the cells in animals only exposed to gamma rays was 50.1%. Conclusion: These findings reveal that a single dose of vitamin C can potenally be used up to 24 hours a3er exposure to reduce the detrimen tal effects of high levels of ionizing radiaon in cases such as the occurrence of currently unpredictable solar parcle events.

Diagnostic reference levels (drls) for routine x-ray examinations in lorestan province, iran

Abstract: Background : In diagnosc radiology there are two reasons for measuring or esmang radiaon doses to paents. Firstly measure ments provide a means for seng and checking standards of good pracce as an aid to the opmizaon of paent protecon. Secondly esmates o f the absorbed dose to ssue and organs in the paents. Materials and Methods: A total of 2382 paents were studied to calculate the Entrance Surface Air Kerma (ESAK) following seven radiographic examinaons including: chest (PA, Lat), lumbar spines (AP, Lat), pelvis (AP), abdomen (AP), skull (PA, Lat), thoracic spine (AP, Lat) and cervical spines (AP, Lat). The ESAKs values were measured according to x- ray tube output, opmized exposure parameters and body thickness (t p) for each technique. Results: The parameters such as, 1 st quarle, mean, median, 3 rd quarle, minimum, maximum and standard deviaon of each ESAK values are reported and compared to NRPB guide levels. The results showed that the ESAK s values in the lumbar spines and chest X-ray examinaons were 30% above the guide levels. However, for the pelvis (AP), skull (PA) and abdomen (AP) examinaons, these values were below than those reported by the NRPB. Conclusion: Periodic quality control and monitoring the technical performance of radiographers might effecvely improve the image quality and eventually reducing the dose received by paents.

Different aspects of cytochalasin b blocked micronucleus cytome (cbmn cyt) assay as a comprehensive measurement tool for radiobiological studies, biological dosimetry and genome instability

Abstract: It is now universally accepted that DNA is the main target for damages caused by physical and chemical genotoxicants. Although there are different methods to measure directly the induced DNA damages but due to fast repair processes in cellular environment, most of the damages would be repaired even before sampling, therefore processed DNA damages, i.e. damages le� unrepaired aer ac ng repair machinery is preferable to measure in various exposure scenarios. Various cytogene c end points are introduced and implemented such as metaphase analysis, sister chroma d exchanges, premature chromosome condensa on, transloca on assay and micronucleus assay. All of these methods were extensively used for various purposes but among them micronucleus (MN) assay was found more prac cal because of ease of scoring, poten al for automa on as well as being nearly as sensi ve as other procedures. These characteris cs made MN assay very popular for screening of the effects of various genotoxic agents in vitro and in vivo. In this review we try to summarize the main aspects of applica on of this method in radiobiological studies and genome instability related diseases.

Out-of-field photon dosimetry study between 3-D conformal and intensity modulated radiation therapy in the management of prostate cancer

Abstract: Background: The present work aims to study the out-of-field photon calculaon accuracy of a commercial treatment planning system (TPS), Oncentra, for three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) and intensity modulated radiaon therapy (IMRT) treatment techniques from Elekta Synergy medical linear accelerator. Materials and Methods: Accuracy of individual out-of-field dose components was studied by defining a square fi eld of 10 x 10 cm 2

Induction of apoptosis by 900 MHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from a GSM mobile phone simulator in bystander Jurkat cells

Abstract: Background: Radiaon-induced bystander effect is a response which results in damage in non-irradiated cells in response to signals from the irradiated cells. The aim of the present study was to invesgate microwave-induced bystander effect from a GSM mobile phone simulator on inducon of apoptosis in Jurkat cell line. Materials and Methods: Jurkat cells were divided into three groups of non-irradiated, exposed and bystander (medium transfer from the irradiated cells). The exposed group was subjected to irradiaon from GSM mobile simulator for 2h and12h; the medium from irradiated cells was then transferred to the bystander cells. Apoptosis rate was measured12 and 24 hours a,er treatment by Annex in V 7-AAD kit using flow cytometry. Results: Apoptosis was observed in both exposed and bystander cells of Jurkat cell line. The difference among non-irradiated, exposed and bystander cell groups was significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: From the obtained results it can be concluded that microwave radiaon exposure in Jurkat cells leads to a significant increase in the apoptosis rate not only in the exposed cells but also in the bystander cells.

The comparison between simple and advanced shielding materials for the shield of portable neutron sources

Abstract: Background : Monte Carlo simulaons play a vital role in the calculaon of the necessary shielding both for neutrons and photons. Advanced and simple shielding materials against neutron and gamma rays were compared by simulaon using the MCNB4B Monte Carlo code. The simulaons were carried out for the three common neutron sources, namely the 252 Cf, the 241 Am/Be and the DD neutron generator which are suitable for transportable facilies. Materials and Methods : The source has been simulated as sphere with 3 cm diameter while the necessary shielding is designed in the form of a sphere around the neutron source. The materials considered were chosen according to the EU Direcve 2002/95/EC, hence excluding lead and cadmium. Results: In the case of DD neutron generator the thickness, the weight and the volume of the shield can decrease up to 41.3, 44, and 78.4% correspondingly. With regard to the 252 Cf neutron source the use of advanced shielding materials can reduce the corresponding parameters up to 32.7, 40.7, and 68.4% respecvely. As regards the 241 Am/Be neutron source, based on advanced shielding materials the thickness, the mass and the volume of the shield can decrease by 33.8, 49.5, and 70% respecvely. Conclusion: The obtained results showed that the use of advanced shielding materials has led to reduce greatly the weight and the volume of the necessary shield.

Determination of human absorbed dose from [153sm]-samarium maltolate based on distribution data in rats

Abstract: Background: Therapeuc radiopharmaceucals are designed to deliver high doses of radiaon to selected target organs with an aim of minimizing unwanted radiaon to surrounding healthyssue. Due to the potenal of targeted radiotherapy to treat a wide range of malignant condions, ( 153 Sm)-samarium maltolate was developed for possible therapeuc applicaons. Materials and Methods: The organ radiaon-absorbed doses have been evaluated for human based on animal data. A%er intravenous administraon of 153 Sm-Mal to four groups of rats, they were sacrif iced at

Studies on electron beam induced DNA damage and repair kinetics in lymphocytes by alkaline comet assay

Abstract: Background: Exposure to ionizing radiaon is known to induce oxidave stress followed by damage to crical biomolecules like lipids, proteins and DNA through radiolysis of cellular water. Since radiaon has been widely used as an important tool in therapy of cancer, the detailed invesgaon regarding the DNA damage and repair kinecs would help to predict the radiaon sensivity of cells. The present study is focused on quanficaon of DNA damage and repair kinecs of human peripheral blood lymphocytes a%er 8 MeV pulsed electron beam irradiaon in vitro . Materials and Methods: DNA damage and repair kinecs in human blood cells were studied using alkaline comet assay. The dose-response curves for the dose range of 0-5 Gy were established using 8 MeV electron beam. Repair kinecs was studied by incubang the cells from 0 to 90 min at 37°C a%er irradiaon. For quanficaon of DNA damage, percentage Tail DNA, Tail length, Tail moment and Olive Tail moment were used as a comet parameter. Results and Conclusion: The study reveals that, inducon of DNA damage by 8 MeV pulsed electron beam is near linear with a negligible negave quadrac component at high doses. This small quadrac component is a5ributed to high dose rate during the pulsed irradiaon. The DNA repair hal%ime and mean repairme for human blood lymphocytes were found to be varying between 9.29 - 23.78 min and 13.41 - 34.31 min respecvely. The repair rate is found to be maximum in inial 15 minutes and almost constant a%er 60 min.

Pet and mri-guided focused ultrasound surgery for hypoxic-tissue ablation combined with radiotherapy in solid tumors

Abstract: Background : The raonale was to develop an ablaon approach to destroy regions of tumor resistant to radiaon and thus reduce theme required for whole tumor ablaon, while improving overall tumor control aer radiotherapy. Materials and Methods : The system is composed of a micro positron emission tomography (mPET), 7T magnec resonance imaging (MRI), and a customized MRI-compable focused ultrasound applicator. 18F- fluoromisonidazole (18F-miso) radioacve tracer delineated hypoxic regions based on a threshold tumor/muscle acvity rao. 18F -miso PET/MRI fused images were used for targeng tumor hypoxic regions for focused ultrasound ablaon. With MRI real-�me temperature imaging guid ance, PET-detected hypoxic regions of tumor could be selecvely ablated to temperatures (T>55 o C). In vivo validaon experiments were performed in SCK and 4T1 murine mammary carcinomas. In two tumor response assays, sequence dependence of combined radiotherapy and ablaon was studied in the SCK tumor model. Tumor ablaon was performed using a conducve probe or focused ultrasound and ionizing radiaon administered in single doses of 15-20 Gy. Results : Tumor growth was abolished when ablaon was applied immediately AFTER radiaon while interesngly; when ablaon was administered immediately BEFORE radiaon, there was no difference in observed growth delay compared to ablaon or radiaon alone. Conclusion : PET and MRI guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) of tumor hypoxic regions is feasible and will be potenally useful for preclinical studies using ultrasound, radiaon or chemotherapy. This study suggests that radiaon precedes ablave therapy to avoid unwanted stress response or addional hypoxia induced by the ablaon, potenally confounding the improved response potenal for combined therapy.

Post monsoon spatial distribution of uranium in water of Alaknanda and Ganges river

Abstract: Background : Uranium poses both chemical and radiological hazard to the living system. Drinking water from river is one of the major sources of uranium intake. Dissoluon of minerals, washout from rain water, rock-water interacon, agricultural run off, and industrial disposals are some of the sources of uranium in river water system. Present study was aimed to determine the uranium in the water Alaknanda and Ganges rivers and its post- monsoon spaal distribuon from Nandprayag to Harid war. Materials and Methods : River water samples were collected during the post monsoon period in pre-washed polypropylene bo'les from the designa ted locaons at both of the rivers. Samples were filtered and analyzed by fluorimetric technique. Results : The measurements showed the concentraon of uranium in water of Alaknanda river varied from 3.05 µg/l to 2.53 µg/l along the downstream sampled locaons with a mean value of 2.75 µg/l, whereas in water of Ganges river the concentraon varied in the range 1.70 µg/l to 2.00 µg/l with a mean value of 1.86 µg/l. Conclusion : The average concentraon of uranium was found significantly higher (2.75 µg/l) in water of Alaknanda river than in Ganges river the average values (1.86 µg/l) of. However, both the values were far lower than the permissible limits at the sampled locaons. The values obtained in present studies were notably higher than that reported elsewhere which seems partly a'ributable to post monsoon cont ribung factors.

Radon concentration and gamma exposure in some Kosovo underground mines

Abstract: Background : In this study are submied the radon concentraon m easurement results of four underground mines: Stanterg, Artana, Hajvali and Badovc, which are owned by Trepca Enterprise, Kosovo. The mines have the same geological formaon and from these mines are extracted ores rich with lead, zinc, silver, and gold. The radiaon exposures caused by radon and radon daughters was determined and gamma dose measurements were also performed in the sameme. Materials and Methods : The measurement of radon concentraons in the environment of mines is carried out by CRM 510, a portable device which connuously made measurement for four consecuve days. The gamma exposure was determined using fully portable handheld instrument GR-130 Exploranium. The detector consisted of a 65 cm 3 sodium iodide NaI(Tl) and a GM tube. The system was calibrated against a 137 Cs standard and checked for stability using a low-acvity 9 kBq radioacve source. Results: The radon gas concentraon for underground mines under study varied from minimal values 60 Bqm-3 to maximal recorded value 748 Bqm-3. The average radon concentraon for mines Stanterg, Artana, Hajvali and Badovc are 301.6, 191.4, 463.2 and 527.2 Bqm-3, respecvely. Conclusion: The average of total annual effecve doses from radon concentraon and radon decay products for miners under the study is 2.67 mSv and just from gamma ray exposure is 0.26 mSv. The average values for radon concentraon and radon decay products to mines under the study are lower than acon level 1000 Bq m-3 given by IAEA.

Nano selenium-lovastatin mixture modulate inflammatory cascade in arthritic irradiated model

Abstract: Background : The development of nanotechnology has been a boon to mankind as its significance paved the way for several applicaons in therapeucs. This study was to evaluate the an�-arthric capability of nano Sel enium-lovastan mixture (Lov-Se) against inflammatory cascade in arthric irradiated rats. Materials and Methods : Animal model of Arthris was organized by subcutaneous injecon of Complete Freund's adjuvant; CFA. Rats were exposed to γ-radiaon (2Gy every 3 days up to total dose of 8 Gy). Lov-Se (1ml ≈ 20 mg kg −1 day −1 Lov and 0.1 mg kg −1 day −1 Se) was administrated by daily oral injecon. The anoxidan t parameters (heart glutathione peroxides; GSH-Px, catalase; CAT, superoxide dismutase; SOD, xanthine dehydrogenase; XDH, reduced glutathione; GSH and blood selenium; Se), oxidant markers (heart Xanthine oxidase; XO, Nitric oxide; NO, protein carbonyls and thiobarbituric acid reacve substances; TBARS) and the inflammatory molecules (serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha TNF-α, C-reacve protein; CRP and rheumatoid factor; RF) were determined. Results: The arthric and arthric irradiated rats were displayed augment oxidave stress, inflammatory cascade and impaired anoxidant status compared to control. Conclusion: The data revealed that Lov-Se administraon ameliorate oxidave, anoxidants para meters as well as inflammatory factors. The prolonged administraon of Lov-Se mixture in appropriate concentraon could exert a considerable systemic an�-inflammatory acon through adjustment of red-ox tone and the integraon of XDH/XO rao.

Evaluation of γ-irradiation treatment on the antibacterial activities of Mentha piperita L. essential oils in vitro and in vivo systems (CLP inflammatory model)

Abstract: Background: Mentha piperita L. essenal oils have different anbacterial acvity. In the present study, we invesgated the effect of - γ irradiaon on the anbacterial acvies of Mentha piperita L. essenal oils in vitro and in vivo systems. Materials and Methods: The aerial parts of peppermint were irradiated in a cobalt 60 source with 0, 10 and 25 kGy absorbed doses. Then, the plants were subjected to Clevenger extracon to obtain essenal oils. The peppermint oils were evaluated for the potenal acvity against four pathogenic bacteria: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus in vitro system. The anbacterial assays were determined by using agar well diffusion and disk diffusion methods. In addion, a broth macrodiluon method was ulized to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentraons (MIC's) of the peppermint essenal oils. For evaluaon the in vivo anbacterial acvity, a surgical procedure by Cecal Ligaon and Puncture (CLP) in rats was used. The blood samples were taken from the rats for blood colony forming units (CFU) determinaon. Results: The results indicated that the oil was effecve in reducing CFU caused by sepsis-induced CLP operaon. Also, the peppermint oil was effecve against all Gram posive and Gram negave organisms tested in vitro system. Irradiated peppermint had no significant anbacterial effects compared with non irradiated one. Conclusion: This study indicated the anbacterial acvies of peppermint oils both in vivo and in vitro systems which is sustained even a4er gamma-irradiaon treatment.

Development of methemoglobin-based biological dosimetry in gamma–irradiated mice

Abstract: Background: A new biological dosimeter based on methemoglobin level was developed in this study. Materials and Methods: Methemoglobin level in erythrocytes from mice subjected to γ rays from a 60 Co source was detected using the methemoglobin kit. The dose range was from 0.5 to 8 Gy and the dose rate was 0.5 Gy/min. Results : The results demonstrate that methemoglobin level increases with increasing dose. The detec%on limit based on methemoglobin has a lower limit of dose es%ma%on of about 1 Gy. The high levels of methemoglobin are maintained for at least 28 days, and the maximal increase of methemoglobin observed occurs at about 30 min a+er γ irradia%on. The rela%onship between dosage and the increased methemoglobin level can be expressed by a linear quadra%c equa%on of y = 8.75 x 2 + 168.09 x + 32.66, with the correla%on coef fi cient, r, equal to 0.96. The best suggested %me for blood collec%on is up to 1 day a+er γ irradia%on. The doses absorbed by mice as es%mated from the use of the dose-response rela%onship were close to the blind doses of 1, 2, 4 and 8 Gy. Conclusion : Methemoglobin is a quick, simple, and precise biomarker for the early assessment of the absorbed dose in mice.

Radiation doses from 131I treated hyperthyroidism patients versus life style: - a survey

Abstract: Background : Radioacve iodine is widely used for the treatment of various thyroid disorders. Safety issues are oen a source of worry and anxiety for the paents, their families and comforters. The paents are advised to restrict their social and work related acvies. Th e work presented in this study describes the results of a structured survey conducted on paents vising our hospital. Materials and Methods : The total number of paents inducted was 419. The paents were asked about their housing condions, family set up, number of children, travelling modes and travellingme back to home. The hospital leaving exposure rates from the paents were measured and radiaon doses to others were esmated . Results : Paents residing in joint family system were 93%. The measured dose rate at one meter were 5.7, 11.0, 15.7, 18.7, 23.0 and 28.0 µSvh -1 for the administered 131 I acvity of 185, 370, 555, 740, 925 and 1100 MBq respecvely. The corresponding radiaon doses to others from the paent were esmated as 0.76, 1.53, 2.29, 3.06, 3.82 and 4.58 mSv. The paents using public transport were 78.04% whereas 21.96% used private transport. There were 11.93% of the paents with no children and 88.07% of the pae nts had children residing with them. It was observed that 1.67% of the paents had no toilets at home and 98.33% had mulple toilets available. Conclusion : The radiaon protecon advice and regulatory requirements need to be formulated keeping in view the individual paent life styles and other living condions.

Dose response evaluation of a low density anoxic polymer gel dosimeter using MRI

Abstract: Background: The human body contains of differentssues and cavies with different physical and radiological properes. Most important among these aressues and cavies that are radiologically different from water, including lungs, sinuses and bones. Gel dosimetry provides a unique feature to display dose distribuons occurring in clinical radiaon therapy in three dimensions. Materials and Methods: The low density polymer gel dosimeter is composed of 12% gelan, 5% methacrylic acid, 0.15% sodium dodecyl sulfate, 10 mM THPC, and approximately 83% ultrapure deionized water. Post- preparaon irradiaonme for all samples was 5 hr. Theme between irradiaon and scanning for all gels experiments was 18 hr. The gel dosimeters were imaged using a 1.5 T clinical MRI scanner in a transmi.er/receiver head coil. Results: There was a linear correlaon between the doses and R2 responses from 0 to 12 Gy. However, above the 14 Gy probably due to saturaon and or consumpon of the monomers the dose response was reduced. The low-density gels had a mass density between 0.35 and 0.45 g.cm -3 and the CT values of about -650 to -750 Hounsfield units. These values are close to those of the normal human lungssue, which ranges from -770 to -875 Hounsfield units. Conclusion: Increasing the gel temperature during rotaon in the household mixer and probably reacons between the gelan-free radicals and monomers led to a higher R2-background response.

The influence of respiratory motion on dose distribution of 3D-CRT and IMRT- A simulation study

Abstract: Background: 3DCRT (three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy) and IMRT (intensity-modulated radiotherapy) has provided us with tools to delineate the radia on dose distribu on of tumor targets. However, the precision of radia on can be compromised by respiratory mo on, which usually limits the geometric and dosimetric accuracy of radiotherapy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of respiratory mo on on dose distribu ons of 3DCRT and dynamic IMRT by simula ng the respiratory mo on, and provide sugges ons to op mize treatment planning. Materials and Methods: American Sun Nuclear Mapcheck 2D-ARRAY was placed on a moving pla,orm to simulate the respiratory mo on. The dose distribu ons were measured with a Sun Nuclear Mapcheck 2D-ARRAY on the moving pla,orm. The mo on cycle was 3.5s, the amplitude was ±3mm, ±5mm, ±10mm, ±15mm. Dosimetric distribu on between 3DCRT and IMRT plans were contrasted byγ-passing rate analysis. SPSS 13.0 so3ware was used for data processing and analysis. Results: The respiratory mo on could blur the target dose distribu on of 3DCRT and IMRT. The pass rate (3% 3mm) in 3DCRT was larger than that in IMRT. The Mapcheck so3ware reflected that, the respiratory mo on largely affected the marginal dose distribu on of 3D-CRT, while affected the whole target volumes of IMRT. Conclusions: Respiratory mo on has a greater impact on the dose distribu on of IMRT than on 3D-CRT. As for tumors with large mo on amplitude, it is advisable to use 3DCRT rather than IMRT techniques.

Post-operative radiotherapy of keloids. A 10-years experience of kilovoltage irradiation

Abstract: Background: Keloids are benign fibrous dermal tumors originang from skin injury aer surgery, piercing or others wounds. Materials and Methods: Sixty -two paents with keloids were treated postoperavely using orthovoltage irradiaon. The total dose delivered was 12 Gy in three consecuve days, 4Gy per fracon. Treatment started 24 h aer surgery. The median follow-up was 44.5 months. Results: Grade 1 erythema was observed in 48% of paents (30/62); 20/62 paents (32%) showed telangiectasia and altered skin pigmentaon as late toxicies. In 10/62 (16%) a clinical relapse was observed. Conclusion: The postoperave orthovoltage radiotherapy for keloids is a valid and tolerated method that reduces the risk of recurrence. Aims: evaluate the role of post-operave superficial orthovoltage radiotherapy in the management of keloids.

The effect of superposition of 900 MHz and incoherent noise electromagnetic fields on the induction of reactive oxygen species in SP2/0 cell line

Abstract: Background: Inducon of cellular response aer exposure to electromagnec fields is limited to coherent fields. An incoherent noise field is supposed to suppress the bioeffects of regular RF electromagnec fields. The purpose of this study was to invesgate the effect of GSM mobile phone-induced radiofrequency (RF) on the inducon of oxidave stress in SP2/0 cell line. Materials and Methods: This study was also an a-empt to assess whether these RF-induced effects can be blocked by superposing the RF radiaon and an incoherent magnec noise. Three groups of cultured cells were used in this study. The cells in the first group were only exposed to RF radiaon emi-ed from a mobile phone simulator. The second group was only exposed to an incoherent noise field and the third group was simultaneously exposed to RF radiaon and incoherent noise field. The exposure duraon in all groups was 2 hours. The level of ROS producon in the cells was quanfied by the CM- H2DCFDA fluorescence probe, using flow cytometry technique. Results: Although our results showed increased ROS producon aer exposure to 900 MHz RF radiaon, superposion of 900 MHz RF and the incoherent noise fields did not lead to increased levels of ROS in any experiment. However, the differences between RF exposure group and superposion of RF and noise exposure group were not stascally significant. Conclusion: Altogether our results cannot support the neutralizing effect of noise theory but may confirm the concept that just the coherent fields can be bioeffecve while the incoherent noise fields cannot cause any biological effects.