Vol. 9, 2024

Table of contents

Radiation Technologies in Industry and Environment

GEOCHEMICAL ASPECT OF CAAPUCU HEIGHT AT SOUTHEASTER PARAGUAY BY X-RAY FLUORESCENCE AND NEUTRON ACTIVATION ANALYSIS

Peter Kump, Julio Cabello(♰), Juan F. Facetti Masulli

Pages: 1-5

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.01

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

The Precambrian in eastern Paraguay is present mainly in two areas in the north and in the south; at the Apa High in the former and at the Caapucu Height in the latter which is constituted by Rio Tebicuary complex; to the north of this river is exposed the Caapucu Hight (Jaguarete Kua plug). Recently, geochemical studies were performed in the Precambrian plug of Fuerte San Carlos, near the Apa River providing analytical data in this regard. In this work hand specimen of granitoid rocks from the southern Jaguarete kua outcrops are studied in some of their major, minor and trace elements aiming to look for relationships with the northern outcrops and their provenance as well as the granitoid type. The analyzed elements were Na, Al, Si, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ga, Pb, Rb, Sr, Th, Y, Zr, Nb, Ba, La, Ce, Pr, Nd. Analyses were carried out by EDXRF except for sodium that was analyzed by Neutron Activation. The XRF experiments were carried out using the facility of Josef Stefan Institute in Ljubljana, whereas NAA was done with an Am‐ Be neutron source with a flux of 5 x107ns -1 at the Facultad de Química (UNA), Paraguay. The results of analysis allow to establish inter alia indexes, ratios which are related with crystallization, granitoid type etc. The spidergrams standardized to primordial mantle of refractory elements content, show an enrichment of incompatible elements in the samples. Besides, they resemble to those found in Precambrian (Neoproterozoic) outcrops from the northern area (eastern and the Paraguayan Chaco), as well as from Brazil.
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Radon and Thoron

PARALLEL HALF-YEAR-LONG RADON CONCENTRATION MEASUREMENT AT TCAS IN ZRENJANIN, SERBIA

Iris Borjanović Trusina, Milica Rajačić

Pages: 6-9

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.02

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Radon is a radioactive gas originating from the ground which can permeate enclosed spaces and pose serious health risks for humans when inhaled chronically. At the Technical College of Applied Sciences in Zrenjanin continuous measurements of radon concentration were undertaken during the summer and autumn of 2023. Radon concentrations were monitored in four rooms located in the basement and ground floor levels, covering an area of approximately 4000 m2, where previous short-term tests had indicated the highest radon concentrations. Detectors were positioned approximately 1 meter above the ground and away from doors, windows, walls and heating sources. These rooms remained in normal use throughout the measurement period. Two types of detectors were utilised simultaneously, placed in close proximity to each other. Radon concentrations were assessed using active-type radon detectors branded as Airthings, alongside CR39 track detectors. The radon concentration values obtained with CR39 detectors demonstrated good agreement with the results obtained using Airthings detectors. The statistical Z-test was employed for analysis.
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Radiochemistry

NEW DEVELOPMENT OF RADIUM-226 ANALYSIS IN WATER SAMPLES USING MnO2 RESIN AND ALPHA SPECTROMETRY

Aishah Alboloushi

Pages: 10-12

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.03

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

A time-saving and optimum procedure for determining Radium in water has been implemented in Kuwait. This new development has been reached including radiochemical separation using manganese dioxide (MnO2) resin and α spectrometry measurements. Radium is separated and retained by the MnO2 resin, then it is extracted by 5 M HCL/15%H2O2 solution. Barium sulfate is precipitated onto the resolve filter followed by α measurement of Radium-226 (226Ra), in addition to γ measurement of Barium-133 (133Ba) to calculate chemical recovery%. IAEA proficiency test sample 2 was analyzed similarly, and the generated value of Radium-226 (226Ra) was in agreement with the reference value as well as the γ result analyzed in the same laboratory. The newly developed radium analysis procedure is more efficient for water samples than other radio-analytical techniques due to the low detection limit of α spectrometry compared to γ spectrometry.
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Biomedicine

GENDER PREDICTION BASED ON QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE MASTOID PROCESS

Aida Sarač – Hadžihalilović, Edin Hojkurić

Pages: 13-17

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.04

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Osteoscopy and classic morphometric analysis of the skull can determine gender with an accuracy of 92%. The aim of our study was to determine the degree of accuracy in determining the gender of the skull based on the classic morphometric analysis of the mastoid process. The research was conducted on a sample of 100 macerated and degreased skulls of known gender and age from the second half of the 20th century, including the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which belong to the osteological collection of the Anatomy Department of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Sarajevo. It is a prospectively designed, osteometric study, where 3 diameters of the mastoid process were measured on each skull using a sliding compass (Schubler) on both sides: mastoid length, width and antero-posterior diameter. The size of the mastoid process was calculated according to the given formula. The antero-posterior diameter of the mastoid process was shown to be a significant predictor for the differentiation of skull gender p=0.0001. If the antero-posterior diameter of the mastoid process increases by 1 mm, the odds ratio (chance ratio) that it is a female skull decreases by 41% in our sample, while in the general population the chance ranges between 50-30%. The size of the mastoid process proved to be a significant predictor for the gender differentiation of the skull p=0.0001. If the size of the mastoid process increases by 1 mm3, the odds ratio (chance ratio) that it is a female skull decreases by 41% in our sample, while in the general population the chance ranges between 50-30%. Increasing values of length, width, antero-posterior diameter and size of the mastoid process increase the probability that the skull is classified as male. By multivariate binary logistic regression, the antero-posterior diameter of the mastoid process was singled out as statistically significant for the differentiation of skull gender.
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Radiation Measurements

Thermoluminescence of beta-irradiated YBO3 :Nd3+ phosphor synthesized by combustion method: A preliminary study

Sibel Akça Özalp, Z. Gizem Portakal Uçar, Y. Ziya Halefoğlu, Mustafa Topaksu

Pages: 18-22

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.05

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

This study aims to investigate the thermoluminescence (TL) properties of the YBO3 sample doped with Nd3+, which is known to be an important candidate luminescence material. The Nd3+-doped YBO3 phosphor was synthesized at various concentrations (wt%) utilizing the combustion method. The optimal dopant concentration and optical filter combination for the Nd3+-doped YBO3 samples were determined through analysis of their TL glow curves. Consequently, TL emissions of the specified YBO3: Nd3+ (0.5%) samples were examined using the IRSL-TL 410 nm filter combination. The YBO3: Nd3+ (0.5%) sample displayed two distinct maxima at approximately 210oC and 390oC, with a linear heating rate of 2 oCs-1, and when the beta dose response of the sample was examined within the range of 0.1-20 Gy, a consistent linearity (b = 0.946, R2= 0.999) was observed between 0.1-5 Gy. Following 12 cycles of reusability testing, the integrated TL intensity exhibited no significant alterations. A short-term fading experiment of the TL emission of the sample was carried out, and the results showed that up to 7 days, the 1st maxima faded very little, the 2nd maxima almost did not fade at all, but around the 7th day, the intensity of this maxima increased greatly.
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Nuclear Forensics

APPLICATION OF DISPERSION MODELS OF ESTE FOR MODELLING OF THE RADIOLOGICAL IMPACT OF RELEASED Cs-137 IN A SPECIFIC URBAN ENVIRONMENT

Jozef Sabol, Ľudovít Lipták, Jan Bajura, Eva Fojcíková, Peter Čarný

Pages: 23-28

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.06

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

The software ESTE was used to assess the spread of contaminated air in terms of parameters that calculate radiation exposure to affected individuals. The computer simulation proved to be a reliable tool for obtaining relevant radiation protection quantities and their dependence on parameters such as the initial source activity, its position, wind direction, and wind velocity. An essential condition for accurate dispersion modelling in urban areas is the evaluation of urban wind fields specific to various environments and atmospheric conditions. The location, structure, and layout of buildings are reflected in the simulation of the behaviour and movement of radioactive air. The modelling considers external exposures, expressed in ambient dose equivalent, and internal exposures, leading to committed effective dose. The ESTE dispersion models have proven extremely useful in obtaining essential parameters for predicting the impact of dispersed radioactivity on individuals in the investigated areas. These data can help implement effective protection measures for people in such areas, where exposure also depends on the configuration of the building structures, which can be taken into account when adopting measures to minimise the exposure of individuals present or moving around. The ESTE code was applied to model the dispersion of Cs-137 in a specific urban environment.
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Medical Physics

THE APPLICATION OF AI-BASED TECHNIQUES FOR EARLY DETECTION OF BREAST CANCER

Dafina Xhako, Elda Spahiu, Suela Hoxhaj, Niko Hyka

Pages: 29-35

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.07

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Breast cancer is a type of tumor that occurs in breast tissue. It continues to remain one of the most prevalent and life-threatening diseases globally, becoming the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Breast cancer begins when malignant and cancerous cells begin to grow from the breast cells. Self-tests and periodic clinical examinations help in early diagnosis and significantly improve survival chances. Early diagnosis of breast cancer, when it is small and has not spread, can make the disease easier to treat, thus increasing the patient’s chances of survival. Due to the medical importance of breast cancer examinations, Computer-Aided Detection methods have been developed to detect anomalies such as calcifications, masses, architectural distortions, and bilateral asymmetry. Micro calcifications are nothing but tiny mineral deposits within the breast tissue. They look like small white colored spots. They may or may not be caused by cancer. This is one reason why breast cancer detection is difficult with mammogram because the mammogram results vary greatly depending on the patient’s age, breast density, and the type of lesion present. Breast density can lead to differences in the contrast of malignant regions and can lead to incorrect conclusions. Our study describes an AI approach of adaptive median filter which performs spatial processing to determine which pixels in an image have been affected by noise. To detect a tumor at different stages we use neural network with different learning techniques to get Gaussian Mixed Model (GMM) segmentation. The Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model is based on convolutional neural networks (CNN) and as input data we have selected 260 mammogram images classifying them into three categories: normal mammogram, mammogram with benign and mammogram with cancer. After the training process, we used a CNN model named ResNet50 to compare the results. Due to the low processing capacity, we have chosen a small dataset. Our results show that a CNN model with 3*3 convolutional layer performed better compared with Gaussian Mixed Model segmentation.
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Medical Physics

CANCER RISK EVALUATION FOR HIGH-DOSE CHEST CT EXAMINATION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Dafina Xhako, Suela Hoxhaj, Elda Spahiu, Niko Hyka

Pages: 36-40

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.08

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

High-dose chest CT exams were performed significantly more frequently during the Covid-19 pandemic to diagnose and treat patients. While critical for patient care, there are concerns about the potential increase in cancer risk linked with this ionizing radiation exposure. Based on the radiation dose, age, sex, and organ exposure, this study examines the cancer risk linked to high-dose thorax CT during the pandemic in Albania. This study is to evaluate the possible cancer risk associated with high-dose CT exams of the thorax for Covid patients. As a method for calculating the incidence of cancer linked to radiation exposure, the idea of Lifetime Attributable Risk (LAR) is investigated through data collection from Covid 19 patient for the period 2020 -2022. The study's methodology includes a thorough analysis of radiation exposure from CT scans, with a particular emphasis on the risks associated with cancer from thorax imaging techniques. The cancer risks significantly increased linearly with radiation dose of CT scans, with the highest risks for doses greater than 50 mSv. The lifetime attributable risk (LAR) of cancer for adults following CT scans was inordinately increased. This study also investigates how the Covid-19 pandemic has affected the need for and frequency of thoracic CT scans, considering the increasing use of imaging in the diagnosis and monitoring of respiratory diseases during this global health emergency. The results of this study emphasize how crucial it is to weigh the possible long-term hazards of radiation-induced cancer against the diagnostic advantages of high-dose thoracic CT scans. Using the patient's age, sex, and effective dose value, the risk factors from BEIR VII tables for more than 2000 patients, analyzing other complex factors that contribute to the risk of cancer, we found there is a low cancer risk estimation considering as an important factor the age of patients.
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Radiation Detectors

YAG:Ce SCINTILLATOR DETECTOR FOR GAMMA RADIATION

Madalina Cruceru, Alin Serban, Liviu Ciolacu

Pages: 41-43

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.09

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

A new detector with Cerium-doped yttrium garnet (YAG:Ce) scintillator crystal plate is reported. The crystal of YAG:Ce, made in China at Hangzhou Yong Hee Photonics Co. Ltd has 0.2% Cerium activator and was grown by Bridgeman method. Since the maximum of the peak emission of YAG:Ce is situated at 550nm, the readout can be made with a PIN photodiode. The dimensions of the crystal plate are 18x18x10mm3. The photodiode used in this experiment was of type S3204-08, made in Japan by Hamamatsu, with an active area of 18x18mm2, which is not affected by magnetic field. The signal from this detector was fed into a charge sensitive amplifier. Two positron sources of 48V (with energies of 511 keV, 983.5 keV, 1312.1 keV) and 22Na (511keV, 1274 keV) were used to measure the energy resolution obtained. We find a value 12%, bigger than the energy resolution obtained for CsI(Tl)(6.7%) with the same PIN photodiode readout and the same charge sensitive preamplifier. Also, the YAG:Ce crystal was polished on all faces and then was wrapped with black paper on lateral faces. The YAG:Ce crystal is non-hygroscopic in comparison with NaI(Tl) and CsI(Tl) crystals, and so it can be used in high temperature and ultra-high vacuum conditions for a long time. The decay time of 70ns for YAG:Ce is smaller than the decay time for CsI(Tl), which makes it a fast detector. Indeed, the YAG:Ce crystal is very good for replacing the old crystals used in gamma radiation detectors from a positron emission tomography (PET) scanner and from other types of end detectors used for high energy experiments.
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Radiation Detectors

FABRICATION AND FIRST ELECTRICAL TESTS OF SILICON-BASED PIN PHOTODIODES FOR RADIATION APPLICATIONS

E. Yilmaz, E. Doganci, O. Yilmaz, U. Gurer, A. Kahraman, A. Mammadli, C. Abbasova, N. Suleymanova, S. Nuruyev, R. Akbarov, A. Mutale, E. Budak, A. Aktag, H. Karacali

Pages: 44-47

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.10

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Silicon-based PIN photo diodes with 3 x 3 mm2 sensitive regions were successfully fabricated in this work. The electrical properties of PIN diodes were investigated intensively. The dark current of Silicon PIN photodiodes has been found to be 200nA at a reverse voltage of -70V. The PIN photo diodes have also been found to reach the full depletion mode and a capacitance value of 5.5 pF has been achieved at -40V. When the photo- sensitive region of the photo diode was illuminated with a help of 450 nm LED light. The photon current of 310 nA was obtained at a reverse voltage of -70V by using 450nm LED light. As the results of first evaluation, the experimental results also showed high dark current value and low photocurrent efficiency. The problems affecting the electrical performance of PIN diodes have been addressed in this research work. Additionally, all the results were carried out at room temperature.
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Radiation Measurements

ASSESSING GAMMA DOSE RATES: AIRBORNE NATURAL RADIOACTIVITY MEASUREMENTS IN ALBANIA

Jurgen Shano, Elida Bylyku, Dritan Prifti, Kozeta Tushe, Brunilda Daci

Pages: 48-52

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.11

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Our study’s main objective is to evaluate gamma dose rates in the air across the Republic of Albania. The Institute of Applied Nuclear Physics set up six monitoring stations in different parts of the country to measure how much radiation is present each month and year, and to figure out the total yearly exposure to natural radioactivity in the air. The monitoring system employed for gamma radiation is the GMT-based Gamma Dose Rate Monitoring System. The research has shown that the average radiation level for Albania is about 1.61 µSv ± 0.010 µSv/h, and the yearly estimate is around 587 µSv ±0.01 µSv/h. One interesting finding is that for three years in a row, Elbasan had the highest radiation reading, reaching up to 3,477 µSv. This number changed depending on the time of year, with the highest levels often happening during rainy days. These findings provide a baseline for monitoring environmental radioactivity and informing public health policies.
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Radon and Thoron

LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE 2022 CAMPAIGN OF THE MEASUREMENT OF INDOOR RADON CONCENTRATION IN DWELLINGS IN ALBANIA

Gerti Xhixha, Blerim Rrakaqi, Kozeta Tushe, Merita Xhixha (Kaçeli), Njomza Elezaj, Ylli Kaçiu, Nazim Gashi

Pages: 53-56

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.12

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Indoor radon concentration in Albania has been investigated to study the influence of measuring indoor radon concentration between living room and bedroom using the CR-39 Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors (SSNTDs). Approximately 60% (out of 69 measurement locations) of the indoor radon measurements were performed in houses, while the remainder in apartments. The average bedroom-living room indoor radon concentration in houses were found to vary from 13 to 454 Bq/m3 with an arithmetic mean of 68 Bq/m3 (median 49 Bq/m3), while in apartments from 24 to 144 Bq/m3 with an arithmetic mean of 54 Bq/m3 (median 47 Bq/m3). The relatively lower concentrations found in apartments is mainly due to apartment floor height, varying from 1st to 7th floor. The ratio of radon concentrations between bedroom/living rooms showed values varying from 0.3 to 4.1 in houses and 0.5 to 3.7 in apartments. The distribution is positively skewed with median value of 1.0 in houses and 1.1 in apartments. The slight difference between houses and apartments can be an indication that the lifestyle is a factor determining bedroom radon concentrations. However, these results support our proposal that radon concentration measured in living room and/or bedroom is representative for the determination of environmental radon exposure of the population in dwellings.
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Radiobiology

OPTIMIZATION OF X-RAY IRRADIATION DOSE FOR INDUCED MUTATION IN BREAD WHEAT VARIETIES CULTIVATED IN ALBANIA

Arjana Ylli, Fotion Mitrushi, Fetah Elezi, Fatos Ylli

Pages: 57-62

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.13

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Induced mutagenesis is one of the most used techniques to improve the quality of agricultural products. One of the main problems of induced mutagenesis is the assessment of treatment doses interval of biological materials for their processing. Calculation of radio-sensitivity is the first step in induced mutagenesis to improve the traits of different varieties. Our study is based on the selection of four varieties of winter bread wheat cultivated in Albania: DAJTI, UBT-1, UBT-2 and KIA-1. Irradiation of bread wheat seeds was carried out with X-rays generated by the RS-2400Q irradiation unit for the evaluation of radio-sensitivity tests. Referring to IAEA protocols, we chose for irradiation six X-rays doses of 50, 100, 150, 200, 300 and 400 Gy. The quantity of seeds for each treatment was the same and the biological material was planted in greenhouse pots. Seeds treated with 6 doses of radiation and the control were planted in three replicates each. To obtain an effective mutation with high probability, the growth reducing dose (GR50) and the lethal dose (LD50) were used in the radio-sensitivity test. The high radiation doses of 300 Gy and 400 Gy for X-rays caused significant damage to the seeds of the four bread wheat varieties. The KIA-1 variety was less resistant and at the 200 Gy, more than 75% of the plants were lost. Following the radio-sensitivity test, to study abiotic and biotic stresses in the experimental field, the three most appropriate doses to irradiate the seeds of these bread wheat varieties were 50, 100 and 150 Gy.
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Radiation Effects Analysis and Fault-Tolerant Design for Space Applications

MACHINE LEARNING MODELS FOR CLASSIFICATION OF SPACE RADIATION

Z. Stamenkovic, S. Vairachilai, M. Andjelkovic, S. P. Raja

Pages: 63-69

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.14

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

The primary aim of this study is to classify space radiation using existing models trained and analysed with a prepared dataset. Leveraging techniques such as Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, Random Forest, and Ensemble methods, the research aims to classify various types of space radiation, including gamma rays and hadrons. The goal is to build a classification prediction system capable of accurately distinguishing between different types of space radiation, facilitating the effective identification and analysis of radiation-induced effects in semiconductor devices. By discriminating between various types of radiation, this study aids in the detection and characterization of radiation-induced effects, crucial for evaluating the reliability and performance of semiconductor devices in space conditions. The outcomes of this research contribute to advancing the understanding of space radiation effects on semiconductor devices and assist in devising mitigation strategies to enhance their resilience in space missions. The study found that Random Forest and XGBoost were the top performers, achieving 99% accuracy in classifying space radiation, and Decision Tree also showed strong results at 98% accuracy.
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Radiation Protection

DISMANTLING OF THERATRON EQUINOX HEAD WITH Co-60 RADIOACTIVE SOURCE AND PERSONAL DOSE ASSESSMENT

Brikena Vuçaj, Kozeta Tushe, Dritan Prifti

Pages: 70-74

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.15

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

In this paper are presented some technical aspects from the decommissioning process of a Teletherapy machine model “Theratron Equinox” that contained category one Cobalt-60 radioactive source. This study includes some technical aspects of dismantling, security, transport and personal doses assessment during the dismantling procedure of teletherapy machine based on the Albanian Laws. During the dismantling process were used thermoluminescence dosimeters and Electronic Portable Dosimeters for personal doses received. The dismantled teletherapy head was transported securely to the National Radioactive Waste Storage Facility. This study highlights safety and security measures taken during the decommissioning process of Cobalt-60 sources while minimizing occupational exposure.
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Radiochemistry

RADIOCHEMICAL PURITY CONTROL OF 99mTc-MERTIATIADE (MAG-3) RADIOPHARMACEUTICAL

Brunilda Daci, Elida Bylyku, Dritan Prifti, Kozeta Tushe

Pages: 75-79

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.16

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Several methods have been recommended in the literature for the radiochemical purity control of 99mTc-mertiatide (MAG-3, mercaptoacetyltriglycine) radiopharmaceutical. This study aimed to compare these miniaturized chromatographic systems to verify their true usefulness and to determine the best way to quantify the radiochemical purity of this radiopharmaceutical, which is used in nuclear medicine for dynamic renal imaging for purposes of diagnosing the problems in kidneys. Instant Thin Layer Chromatography (ITLC) silica gel and Paper Chromatography using different solvents in different supports are analyzed. The chromatographic systems were: ITLC-SG, Whatman S&S 2589C, Whatman 4 (as support phase) in Acetone, NaCl, MEK, Absolute Alcohol, Ethyl Acetate:MEK 3:2, Acetonitrile 50% (as mobile phase). ITLC-SG was found to be the best support for these miniaturized chromatographic methods because it saves considerable time, fits quite well in the nuclear medicine department’s daily routine production, and meets the labelling criteria formulated by the manufacturer.
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Biomedicine

VACCINATION AGAINST TETANUS OF CHILDREN IN ŠUMADIJA DISTRICT: RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS

Jasmina Jovanović Mirković, Jagoda Nikolić, Slađana Pirić, Jelena Milojković, Violeta Stajić Simić, Christos Aleksopoulos, Nataša Rančić

Pages: 80-86

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.17

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Tetanus is a fatal disease that is widespread in underdeveloped countries. Tetanus occurs after injuries, which are the entry point for infection with Clostridium tetani. The bacillus itself secretes a strong and potent exotoxin that causes intoxication of the body, which can be manifested by neuromuscular dysfunction. Tetanospasmin, as a powerful neurotoxin, can lead to a fatal outcome of this disease if adequate protection is not prescribed in time after the injury to prevent further intoxication with this exotoxin. Even greater importance should be attached to neonatal tetanus, which has been more common in rural areas over the last century. The vaccine is one of the safest and most effective measures in the fight against tetanus, as it provides long-term protection in fully immunized individuals. Surgical treatment, appropriate wound care, and the administration of anti-tetanus serum and the vaccine in the first hours after the injury lead to 100% protection against this deadly disease. Objective. To determine whether regular vaccination against tetanus in children in the Šumadija District has been successfully carried out over five years from 2018 to 2022 to achieve satisfactory immunity and protection against this disease for a certain period. Results and discussion. The lowest success rate in immunization against tetanus for the observed five-year period was observed in 2020: 72% for the booster vaccination at the age of seven and 86% for the booster vaccination at the age of fourteen for the area of Šumadija District. Even during the current COVID-19 pandemic in the calendar year 2021, a low tetanus vaccination coverage rate is observed compared to before the pandemic. Based on statistically processed and summarized data, it can be said that the vaccination coverage rate for 2021 is significantly lower for the first vaccination in the first year of life and is 89%, the booster vaccination in the second year of life is 90% and in the fourteenth year of life 87%. It is important to pay attention to immunization status and the completeness and regularity of tetanus vaccination. In some developed countries, special attention is paid to the assessment of tetanus vaccination status by reviewing medical records as part of primary health care. Conclusion. Continuous and improved education of physicians (especially surgeons, anesthesiologists, and emergency physicians) about immunization of the childhood population according to the calendar of mandatory vaccinations against tetanus in the form of panel discussions, lectures, and professional conferences is extremely important. Immunoprophylaxis in children and immunoprophylaxis together with seroprophylaxis and chemoprophylaxis in the elderly is the key to success in the fight against tetanus.
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Biomedicine

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPULSORY VACCINATION IN CHILDREN IN THE FIGHT AGAINST PERTUSSIS AFTER COVID-19

Jasmina Jovanović Mirković, Jagoda Nikolić, Slađana Pirić, Christos Aleksopoulos, Jelena Milojković, Dragana Đorđević Šopalović, Nataša Rančić

Pages: 87-94

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.18

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Introduction. Whooping cough (pertussis) is a contagious respiratory disease caused by Bordatella pertussis, a gram-negative bacterium. It can occur at any age. The clinical picture is diverse, with a wide range of symptoms and severity, especially in newborns, infants, and the elderly. Due to the potential complications, a high morbidity and mortality rate of this disease has been recorded in developed and developing countries. The diagnosis is made based on the clinical picture and confirmed by a nasal swab or a nasopharyngeal aspirate, PCR detection, or serological tests. Epidemics occur worldwide every 3 to 5 years. Early detection of the disease itself and appropriate and rapid treatment with suitable antibiotics are key to success in controlling the epidemic. Objective. To determine whether, with the emergence of COVID-19, the rate of vaccinations and booster vaccinations against whooping cough according to the prescribed vaccination calendar on Šumadija District. County has decreased compared to previous years before the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Results and Discussion. Prevention of this disease is childhood vaccination according to the vaccination calendar prescribed in our country. Whooping cough is a notifiable disease in the Republic of Serbia and is recorded in the Report on Infectious Diseases of the Institute of Public Health of Serbia “Dr. Milan Jovanović-Batut”. The incidence of diseases in Serbia has steadily decreased since the introduction of compulsory vaccination in the middle of the 20th century. The pertussis vaccine has proven to be an effective and powerful weapon in the fight against whooping cough in all age groups. The statistical data obtained shows that the vaccination coverage rate in the first year of life was 89% in 2021, compared to 2018 when it was 98% in the first year of life. Booster vaccination in the second year of life was 90% in 2021 compared to 98% in 2018 in the Šumadija District. According to the latest vaccination guidelines and considering the recurrence and spread rate of this disease, as well as possible complications in certain systems, we should talk about the possibility of supplementary vaccination at some point in life. Conclusion. Based on the processed data, it can be stated that children’s response to vaccination and booster vaccination has decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Šumadija District. It is necessary to check the vaccination status and thus improve immunity against this disease to reduce the possibility of the occurrence and spread of the said disease on an epidemic scale, which is extremely serious in newborns, young children, and the elderly.
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Biomedicine

COMPARISON OF THE SUCCESS OF IMMUNIZATION AGAINST DIPHTHERIA IN THE ŠUMADIJA DISTRICT BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Jasmina Jovanović Mirković, Goran Golubović, Christos Alexopoulos, Marija Jovanović, Nataša Rančić

Pages: 95-101

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.19

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Introduction. Diphtheria is an acute respiratory infection caused by the gram-positive bacillus Corynebacterium diphtheria. Diphtheria can manifest with various clinical manifestations ranging from diphtheria of the skin, diphtheria of the eye, nasopharynx, and tonsils to severe respiratory tract infections. Due to the strong exotoxin produced by this bacterium, complications can occur in some organs and organ systems (myocarditis, neuritis, paralysis). It is very important to treat patients with antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin to reduce the effect of the exotoxin produced by this pathogen. As a preventive measure, the vaccine should be administered in childhood from the age of one. A booster vaccination is given at 2, 7, and 14 years of age. Objective. To determine whether the regular administration of the diphtheria vaccine is carried out according to the mandatory vaccination calendar on the territory of the Šumadija District in Serbia and to compare the results obtained for the period before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Results and Discussion. Thanks to mandatory vaccination, the morbidity and mortality of children have decreased, and in our country, this serious infection has almost disappeared, i.e. eradicated. In many countries in Asia and Africa, there are cases of occurrence and spread of diphtheria during the year. The study is based on the processing of statistical data for the period 2018 to 2022. During the pandemic caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19), there was a standstill in health services and interruptions in health care at the primary healthcare level. It was also observed that the percentage of vaccinations administered decreased in the calendar years during the pandemic and immediately after COVID-19. For the period from 01.01.2020 to 31.12.2020, a significant decrease in booster vaccination against diphtheria from 98% to 72% among 7-year-olds and from 96% to 86% among 14-year-olds was observed on the territory of Šumadija District compared to 2018, the period before COVID-19. Conclusion. It is to be feared that the disease, which can assume epidemic proportions due to its easy transmissibility and spread, will re-emerge. Healthcare professionals and the population should continue to be educated about the importance of mandatory vaccination according to the childhood vaccination calendar.
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Biomedicine

BURNOUT SYNDROME AMONG MEDICAL STAFF IN THE DISTRICT OF BOR

Goran Golubović, Marija Živanović, Dragan Radosavljević, Jagoda Nikolić, Christos Alexopoulos, Nemanja Nenezić, Jasmina Jovanović Mirković

Pages: 102-108

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.20

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

Introduction. Stress is any abnormal reaction of the human organism that manifests itself in psychological and physical symptoms and behavioral responses due to attempts to adapt the organism to a sudden, unpleasant influence. It is assumed that stress is a functional state of disturbed equilibrium of the organism and a short-term psychophysiological state that occurs in response to external and internal factors. Occupational stress is often experienced by professionals in certain professions, including healthcare workers. Burnout is a state of excessive stress and a complex human response to long-term exposure to stress. The signs are similar to stress, but burnout also includes emotional exhaustion and an increasingly negative attitude towards work and even life. The research aims to determine the current intensity of burnout among healthcare workers. Research methodology. A modified questionnaire on burnout among healthcare workers and a questionnaire on socio-demographic data specifically designed for this research were used for the study. Data processing included descriptive statistics and hypothesis tests. The results of the study show that there is no statistically significant difference between the manifestation of stress in the basic group of respondents (emergency medical service) and the control groups (general practice service, pediatric pharmacy). Such a result contradicts many other studies from the literature (American Medical Association). When interpreting the results obtained, we believe that the reason for this could be the size of the sample, as well as the fact that a larger area (Timočka Krajina) was covered. Likely, we would then find a difference in work stress in the EMS and control groups. Burnout syndrome in primary care in Bor is more pronounced than we predicted. We had expected burnout syndrome to be more pronounced in the ambulance service than in the pediatric and general medical service. Conclusion. The statistically processed results of our study show that healthcare staff in primary care are exposed to an approximate level of stress, regardless of where they work or what function they perform. With combined efforts and support, we can overcome the challenges and create a working environment that promotes our well-being and enjoyment of our daily work.
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Environmental Chemistry

BIOGEOCHEMICAL ASPECTS OF SELECTED ELEMENTAL CONTENT IN ILEX PARAGUAYENSIS S.H FROM EASTERN PARAGUAY II BY X -RAY FLUORESCENCE

Alicia Dávalos, Peter Kump, Juan F. Facetti Masulli

Pages: 109-113

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.21

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

rba mate, Ilex paraguayensis, is a plant used in infusions/macerations as a “reviver”/energy and mineral supplier beverage from historical times by the ancient originary inhabitants of Paraguay, to these days, almost worldwide; in regard to the mineral content of Ilex from Paraguay few studies are known, some of them by XRF (X-Ray Fluorencence). In this work, selected non-metallic, as well as some alkaline and alkaline earth elements contents in yerba mate from eastern Paraguay were studied by XRF techniques in order to determine their eventual correlation as well as provenance. The analysis of complex spectra was performed by the AXIL software and the quantitative analysis by the QAES software. The samples indicate that Ilex paraguayensis present in the aerial parts an important contents enrichment of Si,S,Cl, Br and I, some of them considered essentials. On the other hand, except K & Rb, the other cations are well below the line of reference when normalized to Upper Crust (UC) values.
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Radiobiology

POST–ACCIDENT BIOTA OF SERIOUS AND MAJOR RADIATION ACCIDENTS AND RADIOADAPTATION

N.M. Lyubashevsky, V.I. Starichenko

Pages: 114-120

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2024.22

Abstract | References | Full Text (PDF)

The hypothesis of potentially lethal effects on biota during serious and major radiation accidents (SMA) is presented as a key event determining the characteristics of post-accident biota. At the same time, its actual observed state is the result of an evolutionarily fixed adequate reactivity to the risk of extinction. The programmed radioprotective–adaptive response includes epigenetic modifications and all levels of bioorganization, from molecular, intrapopulation (maternal effect, biosocial processes, etc.), to the formation of radiation ecosystems. The universality and effectiveness of this reactivity are the main indicator of overcoming biota extinction. Multiple anomalies imitating the effects of reduced radioresistance are also markers of damage. However, increased sensitivity to radiation in the natural environment is incompatible with the basic principles of biodiversity, which increases resistance to stress. Therefore, suppression of radioresistance cannot serve as an alternative to potentially lethal irradiation by SMA. Real SMA radiation loads are an order of magnitude lower than the doses characteristic of the observed damage to biota, ranked in laboratory and controlled conditions. It has been shown that the abnormally high radiotoxic load in SMA is provided by the synergy of damaging factors, both physical (acute/subacute + chronic irradiation) and biological (two– and multicomponent), to one degree or another associated with mutagenesis. In the early stages, for example, in rodents – hematological syndrome, then mainly reproductive damage, genetic drift, synergistically enhanced by a small population size. A constant level of increased mutagenesis against the background of a decrease in the absorbed dose may indicate a molecular-adaptive mechanism for blocking the synthesis products of damaged DNA (proteins, mRNA). Radioadaptation depends on isolation: animals living in families in an underground colony (mole vole Ellobius talpinus Pallas, 1770) are perfectly adapted, i.e. without anomalies, while the adaptation of mobile terrestrial rodents is imperfect. Radioadaptation is widely represented in the post–accident biota of the Chernobyl disaster under conditions of epigenetic transgenerational heredity. However, its implementation in the experiment has not been noted.
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