Radiation Protection Methods Research Articles

Radiation Protection and Radiobiology

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of radiation protection and radiobiology. It defines and classifies radiation, distinguishing between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. The biological effects of radiation, with a particular emphasis on its impact on DNA and cellular structures, are examined in detail. The text specifies radiation-sensitive and radiation-resistant tissues and explains both deterministic and stochastic effects. Additionally, the discussion encompasses radioepidemiological information and the relationship between linear energy transfer and DNA damage. The article delineates the classification of radiation areas as either controlled or supervised. It offers an extensive overview of the safety and protection methods employed in radiation work, including the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, the use of personal protective equipment, and dosimeters. Furthermore, it explains the radiation protection methods utilized in radiology units and outlines the precautions that should be taken during pregnancy. The article also presents recommendations for reducing radiation exposure. Overall, this article serves as a valuable resource on radiation safety for radiation workers and the public, containing essential information on protection from the harmful effects of radiation and safe working practices.

Advancements in Cardiac Catheterization Safety: Novel Radiation Protection Approaches Redefining Occupational Health.

Radiation exposure poses a substantial occupational risk for healthcare professionals in the catheterization laboratory (cath lab). The escalating complexity and frequency of interventional procedures, such as cardiac catheterizations and percutaneous coronary interventions, underscore the need for innovative strategies to mitigate radiation exposure. While traditional measures like lead aprons, thyroid collars, and goggles have been pivotal in reducing radiation exposure, they have limitations, especially during prolonged and intricate procedures. Consequently, there is a growing demand for advanced radiation protection methods that prioritize safety without compromising procedural efficacy. Recent strides in radiation protection technology have given rise to novel shielding devices and zero-radiation approaches tailored for cath lab use. The novel shields leverage innovative materials and designs to achieve superior attenuation of both scattered and direct radiation. Their ergonomic and adjustable features also ensure optimal shielding coverage without impeding the operator's skill or workflow. Multiple studies have validated the effectiveness of these advanced radiation protection methods in diminishing occupational radiation exposure in the cath lab. Initial findings suggest a significant reduction in doses for operators and staff, potentially lowering the risk of radiation-induced health complications over the long term. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current landscape of radiation protection shields in the cath lab, emphasizing the efficacy and potential of these cuttingedge shielding technologies.

Investigation of biological-rhythm patterns: physiological and biochemical effects in herbaceous plants exposed to low-level chronic radiation – part 1: nonirradiated seeds

Hypothesis Because reactive oxygen species are involved in the regulation of biological rhythms, we hypothesized that intra-annual variability of seed progeny quality at low doses of ionizing radiation (LDIRs) would differ from that of background plants. Materials and methods We conducted 12 consecutive experiments using the roll culture method by germinating seeds (monthly for 3 weeks) of six herbaceous plant species (Bromus inermis, Geum aleppicum, Plantago major, Rumex confertus, Silene latifolia, and Taraxacum officinale) growing under conditions of chronic radiation in the East Ural Radioactive Trace (EURT). We assessed physiological (seed viability and abnormality frequency) and biochemical (low-molecular-weight antioxidants, LMWAs) parameters of seedlings. Results Total absorbed dose rates of maternal plants (TADRplants) and seed embryos (TADRseeds) in the EURT exceeded background levels by 1–3 and 1–2 orders of magnitude, respectively. Nonlinear dependencies on TADR were mainly characteristic of physiological and biochemical parameters. For most populations of the studied species (B. inermis, G. aleppicum, R. confertus, and S. latifolia), seedling survival and root length decreased in the autumn–winter period, while the frequency of abnormal seedlings increased. The content of LMWAs could be ranked as R. confertus > B. inermis > G. aleppicum > S. latifolia, in good agreement with the presence of anthocyanin pigmentation in the plants. The lowest synthesis of antioxidants in seedlings was observed in winter. A high LMWA content promoted growth and reduced the frequency of abnormal seedlings. Conclusions These results underscore a multistage nature of the impact of LDIRs on intra-annual biological rhythms in plants. High heterogeneity in reference group ‘wild grasses’ and diversity of their radiobiological effects should help to develop methods of radiation protection for natural ecosystems and facilitate approaches used by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. Highlights Absorbed dose rates for six plant species in the East Ural Radioactive Trace (EURT) area range from 0.11 to 73.89 µGy h−s (plants) and 0.11 to 6.88 µGy h−s (seed embryos). Intra-annual rhythms of physiological and biochemical parameters in the EURT zone differ from those in background seedlings. Plants in the EURT area exhibit a wide range of trait variability, asynchrony of the manifestation of the effects, nonlinear dose–response relations, and hormesis. A high content of low-molecular-weight antioxidants (LMWAs) is associated with low frequency of developmental abnormalities and high viability of seed progeny.

Calculation method for novel upright CT scanner isodose curves.

A computational method based on Monte-Carlo calculations is presented and used to calculate isodose curves for a new upright and tilting CT scanner useful for radiation protection purposes. The TOPAS code platform with imported CAD files for key components was used to construct a calculation space for the scanner. A sphere of water acts as the patient would by creating scatter out of the bore. Maximum intensity dose maps are calculated for various possible tilt angles to make sure radiation protection for site planning uses the maximum possible dose everywhere. The resulting maximum intensity isodose lines are more rounded than ones for just a single tilt angle and so closer to isotropic. These maximum intensity curves are closer to the isotropic assumption used in CTDI or DLP based methods of site planning and radiation protection. The isodose lines are similar to those of a standard CT scanner, just tilted upwards. There is more metal above the beam that lessens the dose above versus below isocenter. Aside from the orientation, this upright scanner is very similar to a typical CT scanner, and nothing different for shielding needs to be done for this new upright tilting CT scanner, because an isotropic scatter source is often assumed for any CT scanner.

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Dentists in Birjand Regarding the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation and Radiation Protection Methods

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Dentists in Birjand Regarding the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation and Radiation Protection Methods

Scattered high-energy synchrotron radiation at theKARA visible-light diagnostic beamline.

To characterize an electron beam, visible synchrotron light is often used and dedicated beamlines at synchrotron sources are becoming a more common feature as instruments and methods for the diagnostics are, along with the accelerators, further developed. At KARA (Karlsruhe Research Accelerator), such a beamline exists and is based on a typical infrared/visible-light configuration. From experience at such beamlines no significant radiation was expected (dose rates larger than 0.5 µSv h-1). This was found not to be the case and a higher dose was measured which fortunately could be shielded to an acceptable level with 0.3 mm of aluminium foil or 2.0 mm of Pyrex glass. The presence of this radiation led to further investigation by both experiment and calculation. A custom setup using a silicon drift detector for energy-dispersive spectroscopy (Ketek GmbH) and attenuation experiments showed the radiation to be predominantly copper K-shell fluorescence and is confirmed by calculation. The measurement of secondary radiation from scattering of synchrotron and other radiation, and its calculation, is important for radiation protection, and, although a lot of experience exists and methods for radiation protection are well established, changes in machine, beamlines and experiments mean a constant appraisal is needed.

Radiation protection methods for suborbital aircrafts

This paper presents the outcomes of a study conducted by SALTO team in the framework of the Student Aerospace Challenge, focusing on designing structures to optimize passenger protection against radiation in a suborbital vehicle. The study delves into space radiation characteristics and their potential impact on human health during suborbital flights. Through comprehensive research and the utilization of CARI-7A software, the team evaluated radiation exposure and explored both passive and active shielding solutions. The passive shielding solution involved the design of a multifunctional sandwich panel and a shielding layout for windows, minimizing weight penalties on the vehicle’s structure. Additionally, an active shielding concept utilizing high-temperature superconductor material and solenoid layouts was investigated. The study underscores the benefits and challenges associated with both passive and active shielding methods, emphasizing the importance of further exploration to enhance suborbital flight safety and pave the way for future human space exploration endeavors.

Questionnaire Survey of Radiation Protection Education in Hospitals

The present study aimed to investigate the current situation of radiation protection education for designated radiation workers in hospitals. A web-based questionnaire survey was conducted at 1,883 hospitals nationwide with 200 or more beds. Responses from 186 hospitals were included in the analysis. Seven hospitals (6.7%) regulated by the Act on the Regulation of Radioisotopes and six hospitals (7.4%) regulated by only the Ordinance on Prevention of Ionizing Radiation Hazards did not implement radiation protection education. In approximately 6% of the hospitals, designated radiation workers-including physicians, nurses, and radiological technologist-did not attend the education program. The education program attendance rate of physicians was lower than that of nurses. In more than 90% of the hospitals, the frequency of the periodical education program was once every year and lecture time spanned one or less than one hour. The topics of lecture in more than 90% of the hospitals were health effects of radiation and methods of radiation protection for occupational exposure. The radiological technologist was the instructor of the education program in approximately 70% of the hospitals. The implementation of radiation protection for designated radiation workers varied from hospital to hospital, and some hospitals did not comply with laws and regulations. Effective and efficient radiation protection education models should be implemented in hospitals.

Construction of radiation protection training program for nurses using virtual reality

There are also risks associated with X-rays as they are a form of radiation and although precautions are taken to protect patients, exposure of radiology personnel can be neglected. Senior Assistant Professor Tomihiko Daioku, from Chubu University, has been working to educate nurses about radiation in the workplace as many nurses may not have important knowledge about radiation and correct radiation protection methods and experience fear and anxiety about exposure. Given that nursing training courses are intensive, opportunities to learn about radiation are limited. Daioku believes it is vital to provide nurses with more education on radiology and equip them to stay safer in the workplace and has been developing an education programme to raise awareness of radiation and precautionary measures that can be taken by nurses. He has been using projection mapping and VR as useful educational tools for understanding the characteristics of invisible radiation, ensuring the teachings are fun and experience-based. As Daioku found that clinical experience was essential in recalling situations within the VR environment, he has been focusing on practising nurses, building a programme based on Kolbâ–™s experiential learning model. He has confirmed the efficacy of his teaching materials and wants to determine how to utilise these for nursing students without any clinical experience, with the additional hurdle that they have heavy workloads and therefore little time for lengthy education programmes.

SEDIMENT RADIOACTIVITY LEVELS DETERMINATION WITH THE HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENTS IN CHEFA RIVER BASIN.

The activities of the naturally occurring radionuclides 232Th, 226Ra, 40K and 238U of the shore sediments in the South Gondar Zone were determined and used to evaluate radiation hazards in the study spots. The activities of 232Th, 226Ra, 40K and 238U range from 46 to 179, 62 to 140, 125 to 449 and 72-156Bq/kg, with the overall average of 123.07±7.90, 105.34±4.27, 371.38±13.53 and 115.52±4.62Bq/kg, respectively. These were analogous to concentrations of other states in worldwide. We recommend to all the concerned bodies about the environment that the farmers require use the necessary radiation protection method before deploying them for farming (irrigation) activities and preparing for construction. Therefore, accommodating a permanent protection method by talking to the concerning bodies (e.g. Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Health) should be taken.

Minimizing radiation exposure in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a review for medical personnel.

Fluoroscopy is used frequently during endoscopic procedures, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). However, exposure to radiation is an important health concern, primarily because of the potential increase in the lifetime risk of malignancy. This consideration is important for patients and staff exposed to radiation during ERCP. Thus, an understanding of how radiation doses are measured during ERCP and the potential risks of this radiation is important. Additionally, staff must be educated about methods used to minimize the radiation dose, such as the use of different imaging techniques, the general principles of fluoroscopy, and advances in hardware and software. The use of personal protective equipment is also essential to minimize occupational exposure. However, no comprehensive ERCP guideline on the use of X-ray systems in clinical settings or on radiation protection for operators has been established. This review focuses on the properties of fluoroscopy systems and methods of radiation protection for physicians and assistants participating in ERCP.

Abstract 236: Evaluation Of The Radiation Safety And Protection Practices At The Cardiac Catheterization Unit Of The Cairo University Hospital.

Introduction: Cardiac Catheterization laboratories are one of the most hazardous places to work in. The aim of this study is to evaluate the radiation safety in the cardiac catheterization unit at the Cairo University Hospital in Egypt. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that the employees of the Cath labs are overexposed to radiation. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional observational descriptive study at two Cath labs at the Cairo University Hospital in 2019. The participants were nine cardiologists, six nurses, three technicians, and seven hundred patients. The study was conducted over seven months in three phases. Phase I (Thre months), we measured the real-life radiation exposure for the participants in the Cath lab of our department. Phase II (Four weeks), educational lectures about radioprotection and the hazards of radiation exposure were given. Phase III (Three months) The operators were motivated to use maximally the radiation protection shields that are fixed to the table and the ceiling, and radiation doses were re-meausred. Results: The total cumulative radiation doses in Phase I ranged from 2.7mSv to 6.5mSv (mean=4.29±1.26), 0.5mSv to 5.5mSv (mean=2.7±1.7), and 0.7 mSv to 4 mSv (mean=2.9±1.9), while in Phase III ranged from 2.1mSv to 5.5 mSv (mean=3.48±1.26), 0.6 mSv to 4.8 mSv (mean=2.4±1.5), and 0.8 mSv to 5.8 mSv (mean=4±2.8); for the cardiologists, the nurses and the technicians respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the two phases in the mean total cumulative radiation doses received by the cardiologists (P value=0.013), and the mean total dose area product for the patients (P value= <0.001). Conclusion: The staff compliance with radiation protection standards during cardiac catheterization was insufficient. However, the exposure to radiation to the operators and the patients was significantly lowered after we educated the staff and applied out the methods of radiation protection. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first study to clarify the role of radiation protection on reducing the received radiation doses by the working personnel and patients in the region of Africa. The challenges we faced were huge to introduce then implement the basics of radiation safety and protection practices in our hospital.

Development and evaluation of the effectiveness of educational material for radiological protection that uses augmented reality and virtual reality to visualise the behaviour of scattered radiation

Understanding the behaviour of scattered radiation is important for learning appropriate radiation protection methods, but many existing visualisation systems for radiation require special devices, making it difficult to use them in education. The purpose of this study was to develop teaching material for radiation protection that can help visualise the scattered radiation with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) on a web browser, develop a method for using it in education and examine its effectiveness. The distribution of radiation during radiography was calculated using Monte Carlo simulation, and teaching material was created. The material was used in a class for department of radiological technology students and its influence on motivation was evaluated using a questionnaire based on the evaluation model for teaching materials. In addition, text mining was used to evaluate impressions objectively. Educational material was developed that can be used in AR and VR for studying the behaviour of scattered radiation. The results of the questionnaire showed that the average value of each item was more than four on a five-point scale, indicating that the teaching material attracted the interest of users. Through text mining, it could be concluded that there was improved understanding of, and confidence in, radiation protection.

Radiation safety analysis of emergency repair personnel in the reactor cabin under the natural circulation condition of the reactor

Objective Radiation safety of emergency repair personnel in the reactor cabin under the natural circulation condition of the reactor is studied, the radiation protection method of emergency repair personnel in the reactor cabin is described, which provides a theoretical reference for personnel radiation protection and emergency repair time control. Methods The radiation was simulated by the Monte Carlo method for emergency repair personnel in the reactor cabin under the natural circulation condition of the reactor, and the radiation was also analyzed with the radiation data measured by experiments in the reactor cabin under the natural circulation condition of the reactor. Results The neutron dose of external irradiation about reactor simulated computation was 140 µSv/h, and gamma radiation dose rate was 48 µSv/h. By experiment and calculation, the effective dose received by emergency repair personnel in the 30-minutein the reactor cabin was 2.2 mSv. Conclusions Under the natural circulation condition of the reactor, the gamma radiation is harmful to emergency repair personnel, but the focus of protection is different locations for maintenance. It’s safe for emergency personnel to repair the reactor in 30 minutes in turn, wearing the respirators. 摘要： 目的 开展对反应堆自然循环工况下抢修人员辐射安全研宄, 阐述反应堆舱应急抢修人员辐射防护方法, 为应 急抢修人员辐射防护和抢修时间控制提供理论参考。 方法 针对反应堆自然循环工况下抢修人员辐射情况, 利用蒙 特卡罗方法进行模拟计算, 并结合自然循环工况下反应堆舱实验测量的辐射数据进行验证分析。 结果 反应堆外照 射模拟计算中子剂量率约为 140 µSv/h, γ 辐射剂量率为 48 µSv/h, 实验测量计算抢修人员在 30 min 堆舱内受到的有效 剂量为 2.2 mSv。 结论 自然循环功率下进堆舱抢修, γ 辐射对抢修人员危害大, 但在不同的位置维修, 防护重点又有 不同;佩戴呼吸器, 30 min 轮流抢修的方式, 对抢修人员是安全的。

Development of Visual Educational Materials for Radiation Protection in Computed Tomography

The purpose of this article is to develop a virtual reality (VR) instructional environment that allows users to visually experience scattered radiation intensity distribution during computed tomography (CT) is presented. Scattered radiation generated during a CT scan of the head was measured with an air dosimeter to create a dose profile. A color map showing the spread and intensity of scattered radiation was created from the dose profile and used to generate VR content. Scattered radiation was visually recognized using the developed VR educational environment. From the results obtained, it is clear that with the developed immersive teaching material, it is possible to visually recognize the characteristics of scattered radiation in head CT examinations. Users can look back on their own radiation protection methods through virtual experiences with the developed immersive teaching materials.

Retrospective Analysis of the Safety and Outcomes of Percutaneous Radiologic Gastrostomy in Obese vs Nonobese Patients.

The purpose of this study is to compare the safety and outcomes of percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy (PRG) in obese vs nonobese patients. This is an institutional review board-approved retrospective study of 109 patients (male:female, 68:41; mean age, 64.7 years; range, 21-94 years) who underwent PRG with or without gastropexy at a single academic medical center between 2015 and 2018. Body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m2 was defined as obese. Patient demographics, indications, technical success, intraoperative variables, and major/minor complications were analyzed. Major and minor complications occurring within 30 days of the procedure were recorded and categorized based on the Society of Interventional Radiology Quality Improvement guidelines. Of 109 patients included in the study, 22.9% (n = 25) of patients were obese (average BMI, 34.6 kg/m2 ; range, 30-50). Overall technical success in the obese and nonobese groups was 100% each. In the obese vs nonobese group, major and minor complications were not significantly different. There were also no significant differences in procedure time, fluoroscopy time, or contrast volume. However, mean peak skin dose was significantly increased in the obese group vs nonobese group (190.3 ± 224.2 vs 59.1 ± 71.1 mGy; P < .0001). PRG is a safe procedure in obese patients with similar technical success, major and minor complication rates, procedure time, fluoroscopy time, and contrast volume. However, PRG is associated with increased radiation dose with obese patients; therefore, optimal methods of radiation protection should be utilized.

Evaluation of Radiation Protection Methods for Assistant Staff during CT Imaging in High-energy Trauma: Lens Dosimetry with a Phantom Study.

Staff are exposed to radiation in the scanning room when assisting with CT scans of patients requiring ventilatory support during procedures. We measured lens doses using a phantom during a high-energy trauma protocol. Dosimetry showed that the unprotected lens received 2.02 mGy on the right and 1.91 mGy on the left, which are not negligible doses. Respective exposures to the right and left lens were 53.6% and 55.1% when wearing 0.07 mm Pb protective glasses with side covers; 53.7% and 64.2% when wearing 0.7 mm Pb glasses without side covers when facing away from the patient couch; and 92.1% and 91.2% using protective shielding in the gantry. Since the face direction may change during assistance with CT imaging, it is desirable that the protective glasses have a shape with a side cover. The protective shielding had a major radiation reduction effect, although it is expensive to acquire, install, and maintain.

Nanomateryallerin Kompozit Malzemelerin Radyasyon Zırhlama Özelliklerine Etkisinin İncelenmesi

When we look around us carefully, it is a fact that radiation is with us at every moment of life. As a result of the widespread use of radiation rays due to developments in science, human beings are exposed to radiation much more. Avoiding exposure to radiation in the use of radiation sources is a vital issue to be considered. For this purpose, different techniques have been developed to protect from radiation. In this review, information about radiation and radiation protection methods is given and the contribution of nano-sized materials used in the production of composite materials to radiation shielding is systematically examined.

Safety and effectiveness of strategies to reduce radiation exposure to proceduralists performing cardiac catheterization procedures: a systematic review.

The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize the best available evidence on the effect of various radiation protection strategies on radiation dose received by proceduralists performing cardiac catheterization procedures involving fluoroscopy. Cardiac catheterization procedures under fluoroscopy are the gold standard diagnostic and treatment method for patients with coronary artery disease. The growing demand of procedures means that proceduralists are being exposed to increasing amounts of radiation, resulting in an increased risk of deterministic and stochastic effects. Standard protective strategies and equipment such as lead garments reduce radiation exposure; however, the evidence surrounding additional equipment is contradictory. Randomized controlled trials that compared the use of an additional radiation protection strategy with conventional radiation protection methods were considered for inclusion. The primary outcome of interest was the radiation dose received by the proceduralist during cardiac catheterization procedures. A three-step search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and the Cochrane Library (CENTRAL). Trials published in the English language with adult participants were included. Trials published from database inception until July 2019 were eligible for inclusion. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal checklist for randomized controlled trials. Quantitative data were extracted from the included papers using the JBI data extraction tool. Results that could not be pooled in meta-analysis were reported in a narrative form. Fifteen randomized controlled trials were included in the review. Six radiation protection strategies were assessed: leaded and unleaded pelvic or arm drapes, transradial protection board, remotely controlled mechanical contrast injector, extension tubing for contrast injection, real-time radiation monitor, and a reduction in frame rate to 7.5 frames per second. Pooled data from two trials demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in the mean radiation dose (P < 0.00001) received by proceduralists performing transfemoral cardiac catheterization on patients who received a leaded pelvic drape compared to standard protection. One trial that compared the use of unleaded pelvic drapes placed on patients compared to standard protection reported a statistically significant decrease (P = 0.004) in the mean radiation dose received by proceduralists.Compared to standard protection, two trials that used unleaded arm drapes for patients, one trial that used a remotely controlled mechanical contrast injector, and one trial that used a transradial protection board demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the radiation dose received by proceduralists.Similarly, using a frame rate of 7.5 versus 15 frames per second and monitoring radiation dose in real-time radiation significantly lowered the radiation dose received by the proceduralist. One trial demonstrated no statistically significant difference in proceduralist radiation dose among those who used the extension tubing compared to standard protection (P = 1). This review provides evidence to support the use of leaded pelvic drapes for patients as an additional radiation protection strategy for proceduralists performing transradial or transfemoral cardiac catheterization. Further studies on the effectiveness of using a lower fluoroscopy frame rate, real-time radiation monitor, and transradial protection board are needed.

New-old methods of reducing and monitoring x-ray exposure in the interventional radiology environment

Ionizing radiation as a scientific achievement provides a variety of advantages, e.g., in the medical field. However, it also causes a risk of some illnesses, e.g., cataract or cancer. This results in the need to measure radiation doses and to reduce the unnecessary risk. There are 3 main methods of dose reduction, i.e., shortening the time of exposure, working as far as possible from the X-ray source, and using radioprotective shields. Together with the development of science and technology, dose reduction methods and radioprotection methods have also evolved. Besides improved shielding, the ergonomics is also more advanced, e.g., the zero-gravity shielding or light, and non-lead aprons. What is more, the awareness of using radiological protection and conducting the surgery in the safest way for both the staff and the patient is growing up. The goal of this article is to discuss the newest methods of radiation protection against the background of 3 main protection principles. Med Pr. 2021;72(1):49-59.