X-ray Generator Research Articles

PERBEDAAN PROYEKSI PEMERIKSAAN RADIOGRAFI SINUS PARANASAL PADA KLINIS SINUSITIS DI RUMAH SAKIT MAYAPADA LEBAK BULUS.

Radiographic examination of the paranasal sinuses using an X-ray machine can be performed with various projections. Selection of the right projection will provide imaging results that support the diagnosis process. This study aims to analyze the management of the radiographic examination of the paranasal sinuses and to analyze the use of X-ray projections for the examination of the paranasal sinuses in patients with clinical sinusitis at Mayapada Hospital Lebak Bulus. This research method is descriptive qualitative with secondary data analysis approach in January 2022. The study sample consisted of six patients who underwent examination of the paranasal sinuses with clinical sinusitis. The research process includes literature study, observation and interviews. The instruments used are worksheets and documentation tools. Interviews were conducted with two radiographers and one radiology specialist. The result of this research is that the examination of the paranasal sinuses in clinical sinusitis can be performed using two or three projections. Examination of two projections, consisting of a parietoacanthial projection (water's method open mouth) and a lateral projection. Three-projection examination consists of lateral projection, parietoacanthial projection (water's method open mouth) and Posteroanterior or PA axial projection (caldwell method). 

Implementation of evidence-based multiple focus integrated intensified TB screening to end TB (EXIT-TB) package in East Africa: a qualitative study

IntroductionTuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. We qualitatively evaluated the implementation of an Evidence-Based Multiple Focus Integrated Intensified TB Screening package (EXIT-TB) in the East African region, aimed at increasing TB case detection and number of patients receiving care.ObjectiveWe present the accounts of participants from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia regarding the implementation of EXIT-TB, and suggestions for scaling up.MethodsA qualitative descriptive design was used to gather insights from purposefully selected healthcare workers, community health workers, and other stakeholders. A total of 27, 13, 14, and 19 in-depth interviews were conducted in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia respectively. Data were transcribed and translated simultaneously and then thematically analysed.ResultsThe EXIT-TB project was described to contribute to increased TB case detection, improved detection of Multidrug-resistant TB patients, reduced delays and waiting time for diagnosis, raised the index of TB suspicion, and improved decision-making among HCWs. The attributes of TB case detection were: (i) free X-ray screening services; (ii) integrating TB case-finding activities in other clinics such as Reproductive and Child Health clinics (RCH), and diabetic clinics; (iii), engagement of CHWs, policymakers, and ministry level program managers; (iv) enhanced community awareness and linkage of clients; (v) cooperation between HCWs and CHWs, (vi) improved screening infrastructure, (vii) the adoption of the new simplified screening criteria and (viii) training of implementers. The supply-side challenges encountered ranged from disorganized care, limited space, the COVID-19 pandemic, inadequate human resources, inadequate knowledge and expertise, stock out of supplies, delayed maintenance of equipment, to absence of X-ray and GeneXpert machines in some facilities. The demand side challenges ranged from delayed care seeking, inadequate awareness, negative beliefs, fears towards screening, to financial challenges. Suggestions for scaling up ranged from improving service delivery, access to diagnostic equipment and supplies, and infrastructure, to addressing client fears and stigma.ConclusionThe EXIT-TB package appears to have contributed towards increasing TB case detection and reducing delays in TB treatment in the study settings. Addressing the challenges identified is needed to maximize the impact of the EXIT-TB intervention.

A Novel Algorithm for Fast Measurement of Material Density in Symmetrical Objects Using X-Ray Radiography

AbstractX-ray radiography has proved to be essential in medical imaging and examination of material structures because it is noninvasive and generates images based on well-understood attenuation characteristics of materials. For radiographs of multiple overlapping materials, unraveling the individual attenuation contributions poses a problem that is commonly handled by either taking many radiographs at different object orientations for computed tomography or multiple images with different photon energies for Multiple Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (MEXA). Alternatively, to perform faster measurements, a novel algorithm has been developed to determine multimaterial systems' density. The algorithm can be effectively applied to perform measurements using only one to four radiographs of the object. A case study has been presented for a layered cylindrical object that involved sensitivity studies on image noise, X-ray generator voltage fluctuations, layer thickness measurement perturbations, and X-ray generator photon energy distribution fluctuations using simulated radiographs and density calculations using actual radiographs. The results from the simulated and experimental results were found to agree with actual density values.

Assessment of Rejected Radiographs during planar imaging procedures

Radiographic Imaging represents the largest source of exposure to ionizing radiation humans from artificial sources. The estimated annual radiation exposure per individual in the United States is 6.20 mSv. This study aims to evaluate the rejection rate at King Khalid Hospital-Al-Kharj retrospectively and to identify the causes of rejection to radiographic technique. This study was carried out at King Khalid Hospital (KKH) and Prince Sultan center for health services (PSCHS) in Al-Kharj City, Saudi Arabia. The radiographs were retrospectively analyzed for seven digital X-ray machines for three consecutive months. Reject rates per technologist and cause for rejection were analyzed. In total, 22552 radiographic images were acquired for 11134 patients (15363 radiographs) obtained over a period of three months. 67.1% (7544 patients) of the patients are males. Two thousand two hundred five patients were pediatric, representing 19.8% of the all-patients group. In total, 50 technologists are working in the radiology departments with different levels of qualification (Diploma, and Bachelor of Science) and experience. 27 (54%) radiography technologist are working at the planar radiography departments. The overall average positioning error is 34.26%, while the anatomical cut-off is 13.37%. Therefore, staff training is recommended to ensure that patients are well positioned regarding patient setup and body positioning with the proper exposure setting. The study showed no significant difference between image receptors in reject analysis, suggesting that operator performance and professional experience are more important factor than type of image receptor. The study showed that screen film radiography (SFR) is still used in many African countries, while computed radiography (CR) and digital radiography (DR) are dominant in Gulf, Europe, and the United States.

G4XRTube: A Geant4-based Monte Carlo application for X-ray tube simulation

This paper focuses mainly on the generation of X-rays in the X-ray tubes and their utilization in imaging applications. In this work, the Geant4 Monte Carlo simulation toolkit was used to develop an application for simulating the production of X-rays in X-ray tubes. This Geant4-based Monte Carlo application generates X-ray spectra depending on anode angle, tube voltage, filter and anode material. In addition to X-ray spectra, G4XRTube can be used, for instance, for the prediction of half-value layer (HVL) and investigation of anode heel effect. The utilization of G4XRTube can also be extended to include other fields such as radiation protection, shielding, dosimetry and investigation of the performance of X-ray tubes and detectors. The results obtained in this work with G4XRTube were validated against existing data in the literature. Specifically, we compared our results with experimental literature data and TASMICS, SpekCalc, and SpekPy codes. The comparison shows a good agreement between G4XRTube results and other data.

RAPTOR: The Innovation for Making Long Leg Standing Radiography for Total Knee Arthroplasty from Conventional Radiography

Purpose: To evaluate the reliability and validity of femoral anatomical-mechanical angle (fAMA), hip knee ankle angle (HKA), and overlap of long leg standing radiography (LLSR) obtained using a Rapid Orthoroentgenography Making Machine (RAPTOR) compared with a standard X-ray generator. Methods: This observational study was conducted between July 2021 and August 2021, including patients diagnosed with primary knee osteoarthritis that underwent preoperative LLSR for total knee replacement. Three orthopedic surgeons blindly evaluated LLSR (fAMA, HKA, overlap of the femoral shaft) twice within one-month using the Visio program. Intra- and interobserver reliability and validity were analyzed. Results: Three evaluators assessed 30 LLSRs. The intraobserver agreement levels were -0.951–1.062° for fAMA, -10.338–11.076° for HKA, and -0.418–0.418 mm for overlap of RAPTOR, while for the standard X-ray generator the agreement levels were -1.359–1.114° for fAMA, 11.844–12.467° for HKA, and 0 mm for overlap. The intraclass correlation was 0.55–0.99 for all RAPTOR measurements and 0.56–0.99 for standard X-ray generator. The interobserver’s levels of agreement were -1.441–1.175° for fAMA, -7.453–7.475° for HKA, and -0.681–0.637 mm for overlap of RAPTOR, whereas those of the standard X-ray generator were -1.149–1.424° for fAMA, -4.789–6.171° for HKA, and 0 mm for overlap. The intraclass correlation was 0.69–0.97 for all RAPTOR measurements and 0.71–0.95 for the fAMA and HKA standard X-ray generator measurements. The mean and 95% limits of agreement of the comparison between RAPTOR and standard X-ray generator were -0.131° (-1.187, 0.925) for fAMA, -0.126° (-4.724, 4.471) for HKA, and 0.363 (-) mm for overlap. Only overlap was significantly different between the two methods (p=0.0243). Intraclass correlations between the two radiographic methods were 0.75 (0.63, 0.88) for fAMA and 0.93 (0.89, 0.97) for HKA. Conclusions: Estimation of fAMA, HKA, and overlap had moderate to excellent reliability and inter- and intra-rater reliabilities in both RAPTOR and standard X-ray generator. Only overlap was different between the two methods.

Importance of Instant Thrombectomy to Treat Cerebral Vessel Occlusion During TAVI in Third World Country

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is considered to be one of the treatments for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis. This procedure has been associated with cerebrovascular events be it thromboembolic or hemorrhagic in nature that increase the periprocedural mortality and morbidity. Strokes post TAVI are mostly ischemic in origin; they can be either due to symptomatic or silent emboli. These thromboembolic events may occur during the procedure or up to 2 months after the procedure. In the acute setting, especially during the procedure, immediate intervention is crucial for better patient outcome. Mechanical thrombectomy is the best treatment modality for immediate revascularization and stroke prevention. Case description: We present a case of a patient who developed symptomatic signs of hypoperfusion during the procedure that required an urgent mechanical thrombectomy in a third world country. The patient didn’t undergo CT imaging and wasn’t transferred to the brain angiography suite; the procedure was done using the x-ray machine and in the cardiology catherization lab which lacks proper equipment to do cerebral DSA (Digital subtraction angiography). This case is the 8th to be reported in the literature where mechanical thrombectomy was done on the table during a TAVI procedure. Based on this case and the literature review, we will propose an algorithm for dealing with similar cases. Conclusion: We highlight the importance of instant thrombectomy that should be done in a patient suffering from a thromboembolic event while performing TAVI procedure. Using the same endovascular access, in the same setting in the cardiac catherization lab to assess thrombus location, even if done sub-optimally without DSA, in correlation with patient’s symptoms, without taking the patient to perform a CT scan, is life saving and guarantees quick reperfusion after clot aspiration with clinical improvement afterwards and better patient outcome.

Pulsating mode in X-ray generators based on the SBN-61 crystal

Currently, pyroelectric crystals are used in the development of new portable sources of X-ray and neutron radiation. Typically, X-rays are produced when pyroelectric crystals are heated or cooled. In this work, in an X-ray generator based on a ferroelectric crystal of barium-strontium niobate Sr0.61Ba0.39Nb2O6, the pulsations of the electron and X-ray flux were registered at a constant temperature when the gas pressure increased in the range 2·10−2–10−1 Torr. The electron flux had the shape of a cross in the crystal plane. The flash duration did not exceed 0.04 seconds. The observed effect is explained by the movement of domain boundaries on the depolarized crystal face in vacuum, resulting in a large surface charge and, accordingly, an electric potential, leading to the formation of a pulsed electron flux.

The Evaluation of Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) in Smartphone to Test X-Ray Tube Radiation Leakage

Radiation detection method has been developed through years. It started from the complex module tools to simple handheld instrument. Recently, the more ease method has been developed with the help of smartphone application. To detect radiation using smartphone usually required the external tools connected to the phone as detector, but there is one application that did not. This application only required complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) part of camera. The application is a game changer in radiation protection because nowadays smartphone is in everyone’s pocket. The application needs to be tested to ensure its effectiveness to detect radiation. The application has been tested by the previous research and it is effective to detect radiation. In this research, CMOS will be tested to detect radiation leakage of x-ray tube. The aim of this research is to find the effectiveness of CMOS in smartphone for radiation leakage detection of x-ray tube. The finding will help the radiation worker detect leakage radiation of x-ray tube using smartphone in case of the absences of surveymeter in the facility. The radiation from x-ray machine were detected and measured three times by Iphone 6s, Xs, and 11 using RadioactivityCounter. To ensure there was a leakage, surveymeter is used as a comparative modul. The data obtained from the experiment was analyzed using t-test. The result show that percentage error of Iphone 6s, Xs, and 11 Consecutively were 93.4%, 98.2%, and 98.9%. which mean CMOS in these said phone could detect and measured radiation ineffectively. This due to the low leaked intensity x-ray that came from x-ray machine. From the T-test anaysis found that only Iphone 11 had linear comparison to surveymeter

Deciphering the Structural and Chemical Transformations of Oxide Catalysts during Oxygen Evolution Reaction Using Quick X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy and Machine Learning.

Bimetallic transition-metal oxides, such as spinel-like CoxFe3-xO4 materials, are known as attractive catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline electrolytes. Nonetheless, unveiling the real active species and active states in these catalysts remains a challenge. The coexistence of metal ions in different chemical states and in different chemical environments, including disordered X-ray amorphous phases that all evolve under reaction conditions, hinders the application of common operando techniques. Here, we address this issue by relying on operando quick X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, coupled with unsupervised and supervised machine learning methods. We use principal component analysis to understand the subtle changes in the X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectra and develop an artificial neural network to decipher the extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectra. This allows us to separately track the evolution of tetrahedrally and octahedrally coordinated species and to disentangle the chemical changes and several phase transitions taking place in CoxFe3-xO4 catalysts and on their active surface, related to the conversion of disordered oxides into spinel-like structures, transformation of spinels into active oxyhydroxides, and changes in the degree of spinel inversion in the course of the activation treatment and under OER conditions. By correlating the revealed structural changes with the distinct catalytic activity for a series of CoxFe3-xO4 samples, we elucidate the active species and OER mechanism.

Barriers to childhood tuberculosis case detection and management in Cambodia: the perspectives of healthcare providers and caregivers

BackgroundDiagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in children remain challenging, particularly in resource-limited settings. Healthcare providers and caregivers are critical in improving childhood TB screening and treatment. This study aimed to determine the barriers to childhood TB detection and management from the perspectives of healthcare providers and caregivers in Cambodia.MethodWe conducted this qualitative study between November and December 2020. Data collection included in-depth interviews with 16 healthcare providers purposively selected from four operational districts and 28 caregivers of children with TB and children in close contact with bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary TB residing in the catchment areas of the selected health centers. Data were analyzed using thematic analyses.ResultsMean ages of healthcare providers and caregivers were 40.2 years (standard deviation [SD] 11.9) and 47.9 years (SD 14.6), respectively. Male was predominant among healthcare providers (93.8%). Three-fourths of caregivers were female, and 28.6% were grandparents. Inadequate TB staff, limited knowledge on childhood TB, poor collaboration among healthcare providers in different units on TB screening and management, limited quality of TB diagnostic tools, and interruption of supplies of childhood TB medicines due to maldistribution from higher levels to health facilities were the key barriers to childhood TB case detection and management. Caregivers reported transportation costs to and from health facilities, out-of-pocket expenditure, time-consuming, and no clear explanation from healthcare providers as barriers to childhood TB care-seeking. Aging caregivers with poor physical conditions, lack of collaboration from caregivers, ignorance of healthcare provider's advice, and parent movement were also identified as barriers to childhood TB case detection and management.ConclusionsThe national TB program should further invest in staff development for TB, scale-up appropriate TB diagnostic tools and ensure its functionalities, such as rapid molecular diagnostic systems and X-ray machines, and strengthen childhood TB drug management at all levels. These may include drug forecasting, precise drug distribution and monitoring mechanism, and increasing community awareness about TB to increase community engagement.

Application of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Guidance in Lumbar Transforaminal Endoscopic Surgery for Puncture and Catheterization.

BACKGROUND Foraminal puncture is a key step in foraminal endoscopic surgery, but the radiation dosage poses a clinical risk to patients. To reduce the radiation dosage, we investigated the feasibility and clinical effect of endoscopic transforaminal puncture through the use of the musculoskeletal ultrasound-guided lumbar percutaneous posterolateral approach. MATERIAL AND METHODS Retrospective data of 80 lumbar percutaneous posterolateral approach endoscopic surgery patients from March 2018 to June 2021 were analyzed. The clinical efficacy was assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) during the follow-up. RESULTS Between the musculoskeletal ultrasound-guided group and the C-arm X-ray machine fluoroscopy group, the puncture time of the musculoskeletal ultrasound-guided group was significantly shorter than that of the C-arm X-ray machine fluoroscopy group (t=13.113, P=0.010). The radiation received in the ultrasound guidance group was significantly less than in the C-arm X-ray group. There was no difference in ODI values between the 2 groups before surgery (t=0.195, P=0.286), 3 months after surgery (t=0.235, P=0.092), and 1 year after surgery (t=0.168, P=0.173). There was no significant difference in VAS scores between the 2 groups before surgery (t=0.715, P=0.610), 3 months after surgery (t=0.367, P=0.192), and 1 year after surgery (t=0.496, P=0.390). CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that musculoskeletal ultrasound can accurately guide the lumbar percutaneous posterolateral approach for endoscopic foraminal puncture, which can significantly reduce the puncture time and the amount of X-ray radiation.

Frequency of occurrence of taurodontism in the historical population of Radom (11th−19th centuries)

ObjectiveThe aim of the work was to trace possible changes in the frequency of taurodontism in individuals who inhabited historical Radom from the early Middle Ages to modern periods. DesignThe research was based on the analysis of X-ray images of 640 molars of individuals from the 11th/12th c. (n = 120), 14th/17th c. (n = 76), and 18th/19th c. (n = 444). Radiological images were made with the use of a portable X-ray machine, and the results were biometrically analysed using the Shiffman and Chanannel index. ResultsThe highest frequency of taurodontism was observed in the 18th/19th c. (31 %, 138/444). In the 11th/12th and 14th/17th centuries, this percentage was significantly lower (22 %, 26/120 vs. 16 %, 12/76). In subsequent chronological periods, no statistically significant differences between sexes in the occurrence of taurodontism were observed. The highest number of taurodontal teeth was observed among the second and first upper molars (73 % and 52 %, respectively), and the lowest number was observed among the first and second lower molars (16 % and 23 %, respectively). In all historical periods, hypotaurodont forms were most often observed. ConclusionsVariations in the frequency of taurodontism may result from many reasons, for example environmental factors. However, it cannot be ruled out that the observed differences result from the increased migration of people to Radom in the 18th/19th century.

Evaluation of patients’ and occupational radiation risk dose during conventional and interventional radiology procedures

Medical personnel working with ionizing radiation are exposed to significant radiation doses. Previously published studies reported increased incidence of induced cancer and cataracts among radiation workers in medical and industrial premises due to exposure to ionizing radiation. Therefore, an assessment of occupational exposure is recommended. The purpose of this study is to estimate the radiation risk caused by staff exposure and ambient exposures during diagnostic radiography. The study involved 46 staff members: 38 technologists, 8 Radiologists and 22 patients: 11 undergoing conventional radiology and 11 undergoing fluoroscopic radiology. Occupational and ambient doses were measured using calibrated optical stimulating-luminescent dosimeters (OSL) (Al2O3:C). These badges were read using an automatic OSL reader. Patients’ doses were calculated form the reading of the x-ray machines. Calculating the dose parameters for patients, the mean and standard deviation (SD) of the kVp, mAs, and patient doses in terms of Dose Area Product (DAP)were 113.1 ± 16.2, 7.5 ± 11.65, and 869.6, respectively. The mean and range of the annual effective dose (mSv) for technologists was (0.6 ± 0.36) (0–2.11). The mean and range of effective dose (mSv) for Radiologists were (0.48 ± 0.19) (0.17–0.74). The occupational exposure in this study showed that radiology technologists and radiologists are exposed to a low dose according to the current workload. The staff dose reported in this study is lower than those available in most previous studies.

Digital X-ray Machine Carestream DRX-NOVA Fault Maintenance

To analyze the malfunction and maintenance process of Carestream digital X-ray machine DRX-NOVA for reference. The fault of Carestream digital X-ray machine DRX-NOVA in 2011-2021 was summarized, the fault types were classified, and the maintenance process was summarized. Fault types can be divided into three categories, each of which has its own characteristics and specific solutions. It is necessary to master the principle of equipment to repair all kinds of equipment failures. Repair the machine should be careful, comprehensive consideration of the cause of the failure. To correctly understand and analyze the operation of the machine under normal conditions, we can accurately analyze the cause of failure, so that we can really solve the problem.

Additive manufactured foam targets for experiments on high-power laser–matter interaction

Additive manufactured (AM) foams in the context of high-power laser–matter interaction have emerged as a topic of significant interest. Printed foam targets provide a highly controlled environment for laser interaction and permit a high degree of versatility in terms of average density, spatial structure, and materials. These features are of great value to a variety of applications, including inertial confinement fusion and generation of intense x-rays and gamma rays. This paper describes an approach to the design and fabrication of AM foams for laser–plasma interaction experiments, including the selection of cellular structure, optimization of mechanical properties using a finite element approach, and foam printing on dielectric and conducting substrates.

X-ray-acquired imaging and detection radiography system using digital radiography with a DSLR digital camera: preliminary results of a pilot study

This study aimed to develop an X-ray digital radiography (DR) imaging system with a low radiation dose and superior resolution compared to those of the existing computed radiography (CR) and DR image acquisition systems using a complementary metal–oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor-type digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that is capable of adjusting sensitivity. The X-ray system consists of an X-ray generator, a DSLR camera, and a power cable. The X-ray irradiated from the X-ray imaging device was detected on a fluorescence plate located on the upper part of the body, and an image was captured by a digital camera installed below the fluorescence plate. After converting the image into an electric signal inside the pixel, the data are output through a cable to the computer, which is a data-processing device installed outside the imaging system. The spatial resolution using the resolution chart was 3.19 (LP/mm). The plot profile obtained using the ImageJ program showed a spatial resolution difference according to the spatial frequency. In addition, by exposing X-rays to the resolution chart, a plot profile of 1.0–4.86 (LP/mm) was drawn for the surface profile and resolution according to spatial frequency. Using an aluminum step wedge, images from 3.0–18 mm and plot profiles were shown. In the phantom, the hand muscle signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were 13.42 was 7.2, and the bone SNR and CNR were 10.86 and 7.2%, respectively. In conclusion, the X-ray image acquisition system using a CMOS sensor-type DSLR camera has the advantage of acquiring images in real-time with low radiation dose, resolution, and contrast, so it applies to X-ray examination in clinical practice, such as the existing CR and DR image acquisition systems. DSLR image acquisition systems can be deployed in developing countries and provided through teleradiology and telemedicine.

Influence of grain size on direct conversion X-ray sensing Bi2O3 for low-dose X-rays

Low-dose X-ray sensors are essential in healthcare applications, especially for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The highly sensitive X-ray sensors at low doses are significantly limited by the crystallite morphology of the attenuating materials. Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) with unique functional properties was used to understand the influence of grain size on direct conversion X-ray induced photocurrent at low dose X-rays (mGy). Hence, a commercial nano-Bi2O3 and bulk-Bi2O3 were developed into a thick film on top of the interdigitated electrode by glass rod sliding technique. The photocurrent instigated for nano-Bi2O3 and bulk-Bi2O3 thick films at different low doses under 3 V biased condition was examined using 70 keV dental X-ray machine. The obtained sensitivity for nanocrystalline Bi2O3 was superior than the bulk-Bi2O3 due to the multiple scattering process, which was discussed in detail.

Anatomical Side Marker Use in Digital Radiography at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) of Lusaka, Zambia

Background: All general radiographic images must always display a correct permanent anatomical side marker (ASM). However, literature reports a decline in the use of permanent ASMs in digital radiography (DR). The ASM has been reported as one of the most common sources of error in radiography of which some have resulted in performing wrong-site surgery and treatment. Since the installation of a DR X-ray machine in 2015 at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) no research or audit has been conducted on this subject. Aim: This study aimed at auditing the use of ASMs in digital radiography (DR) and identifying the barriers to the use of permanent ASMs at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) of Lusaka, Zambia. Methodology: This study was conducted in two phases. The first phase involved a retrospective auditing of the use of ASMs in DR with a sample of 290 radiographic images. Data were collected using a checklist. The second phase was aimed at identifying the barriers to the use of permanent ASMs and suggestions to overcome them. Data were collected using an online questionnaire. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, whilst qualitative data from open-ended questions were analysed using content analysis. Results: In the first phase, all the audited images N=290 (100.0%) had electronic (digital) ASMs and were placed on the correct anatomical side (right or left). However, no image had a permanent ASM. A total of N=45 (18.8%) images had ASMs that obscured the anatomy. In the second phase, a total of N=20 (46.0%) respondents agreed that they do not always use permanent ASMs because of a lack of ASMs, increased workload, and time-consuming. Conclusion: This study revealed the non-use of permanent ASMs by radiographers and radiography students. The purchasing of permanent ASMs and delivery of educational awareness programme is recommended as well as frequent auditing.

Operator Protection from Gamma Rays Using Ordinary Glass and Glass Doped with Nanoparticles

Radiation-shielding glass is utilized in a few applications such as nuclear medicine, (PET) scans, x-rays, or treatment use. Nuclear reactors additionally require shielding from radiation types such as gamma, x-rays, and neutron emissions. Radiation-shielding glass is additionally utilized in the exploration and industry fields, for example, in cyclotron support testing of non-destructive materials, and the improvement of airport x-ray machines. Notwithstanding, radiation-shielding glass utilizes space innovation to protect both the astronauts and tools from cosmic rays. Nanoparticles have been involved recently in those applications. Several simulations using MCNP 6 have been used in this study to compare a variety of conventional and nanoparticle-doped glass, including silicate glass (containing BiO or PbO), BZBB5, and glass containing nanoparticles, including Na2Si3O7/Ag, Al2H2Na2O13Si4/HgO, and lead borate glass containing ZrO2 to detect shielding properties for operators at different gamma energies. We investigated the percentage of transmitted photons, linear attenuation coefficient, half-value layer, and mean free path for the selected glass. Several shielding properties were not significantly different between the simulated results and the theoretical data available commercially. Based on the results, those parameters depend on the glass material due to their densities and atomic number. It has been found that 70 Bismuth(III) oxide:30 Silica has the best shield properties from gamma rays, such as a low percentage of transmitted photons, low HVL, and low MFP, which is due to its high density and atomic number.