@article{ author = {HosseinMozdarani,}, title = {Being on the right path}, abstract ={Being on the right pathThe 1st issue of the Iranian Journal of Radiation Research (IJRR) was published two years ago (June 2003). This journal was initiated to bring together the various disciplines of radiation oncology, radiation biology, medical physics, nuclear medicine and other related subjects to intensify the dialogue between basic and clinical researchers especially those working in Iran. Within the last two years, this journal has tried to offer an ideal platform for the exchange of detailed scientific information concerning the latest developments in the field of radiation research, from various institutes, hospitals or even individuals. IJRR has been one of the specialized journals when published 2 years ago. The executive committee of the journal has been anxious about the quality and quantity of papers received by the IJRR office. The reason is that, the research activities in these fields are unexplored. Then, we believed that there might not be sufficient numbers of articles to be published in a specialized magazine as IJRR. Now, only a little over 2 years we have realized potential peoples and centers working in this area, not only in Iran but in other countries who contributed sincerely to the journal so that we are not worried about the materials to be published. We have realized that the existence of such a unique journal is a must both for Iran and the researchers in the region.    Shortly after publishing the 1st issue, we tried to computerize all activities in the editorial office, including online review by our reviewers. The journal’s website is one of the most complete websites among Iranian journals with search capabilities and free access to abstracts and full PDF texts by readers and our visitors.   The scientific quality of the journal specifically depends on the quality of papers submitted and the keen attention of the journal’s reviewers. These efforts were led to recognition of the journal as a scientific and academic research source by the ministry of Health and Medical Education. It has also been indexed by Index Medicus for Eastern Mediterranean Region (IMEMR). And now, in an annual qualification of scientific medical journals, IJRR is ranked among the highest scored journals..    We are proud to publish the 3rd volume of the journal with a short delay. To fulfill the interest of our readers and taking another step toward being internationally published in the field of radiation research, we have made some changes in the structural appearance and reference citation according to Vancouver’s format.      We would like to express our special thanks to our editorial board for their help and suggestions, all reviewers for their sincere help and careful review of the articles and my colleagues at the editorial and publishing office.  I doubt we could publish this journal without their interest and efforts. IJRR is looking forward to receiving the invaluable papers from Iranian and foreigner scientists to be published in the forthcoming issues.}, Keywords = {}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {1-1}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-115-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-115-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {M.Mohammadi, and E.Bezak,}, title = {The evaluation of minimum detectable phantom thickness change using a scanning liquid filled ion chamber EPID dose response}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: Although Electronic Portal imaging Devices (EPIDs) have originally developed for positioning verification, they can also be used for dosimetric purposes. In the current work, the dose response of minimum detectable thickness of a Scanning Liquid filled Ion Chamber EPID, SLIC-EPID, and the variation of transmitted dose with the shift of inhomogeneity inside of phantom was also evaluated were investigated.Materials and Methods: The SLIC-EPID pixel values were converted to the dose values using ionization chamber calibration and KODAK Extended Dose Range films (EDR2 films). The variation of EPID dose values with phantom thickness was investigated. In order to find the rate of dose deposited per centimetre of phantom, several reference points were defined and the variation of dose delivered to the points in the vicinity of reference points was investigated. Two cm thick foam layer, as air gap, was shifted in the beam direction to evaluate the variation of transmitted dose with the shift of inhomogeneity position inside of phantom.Results: An exponential decrease of the transmitted dose values was observed with the increase of the thickness of attenuators. The maximum and minimum rate of dose deposited per unit of phantom thickness was found to be 5.45% /cm and 3.78% /cm, respectively. Due to the reproducibility and noise level of SLIC-EPID, a 0.5 cm of thickness can be detected with a good reliability. The relative error of EPID dose values increases with an increase of phantom thickness for both data sets. The relative error did not exceed 0.7%. No significant variation in transmitted dose inplane and crossplane profiles were found with the shift of inhomogeneity in the beam direction. Conclusion: The minimum detectable thickness is an important factor to evaluate an imager for dosimetric purposes. The SLIC-EPID can be used as a reliable two-dimensional dosimeter. }, Keywords = {,Dose verification,electronic portal imaging,portal dosimetry,transmitted dosimetry}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {3-10}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-116-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-116-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {H.Pourbeigi, and A.S.Meigooni, and H.Ghafourian, and R.A.Koona, and M.H.Zahmatkesh,}, title = {Enhancement of MD-55-2 radiochromic film sensitivity using a multilayer film technique for applications in the low dose range}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackgrounds: MD-55-2 is one of the Radiochromic film models with the sensitivity suitable for dose measurements ranging from 5 to 100 Gy.  However, this lower limit makes the film impractical for its applications in many areas such as brachytherapy source dosimetry.Materials and methods: In this project, the useful range of the film has been extended by using a multilayer film technique. In this technique, single-, double-, and triple- layers of films were exposed to the doses ranging from 0.5 to 10 Gy using a Co-60 photon beam. Calibration curves for corresponding layers of films were obtained with a spectrophotometer using a 680nm wavelength.Results: The results indicated that the sensitivities of double and triple layers were approximately 200% and 300%, respectively, higher than a single-layer film.  The impact of multilayer film arrangement on the energy dependence of the MD-55-2 Radiochromic film has also been examined using 100KVp, 80 KVp, and 6 MV X-ray beams. The results indicated an insignificant (within 5%) change in film responses with the beam energy. Conclusion: Therefore, the multilayer technique enhances the Radiochromic film sensitivity and expands its application to the low dose range in field of brachytherapy source dosimetry.   }, Keywords = {}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {11-16}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-117-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-117-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {F.Bouzarjomehri, and M.HEhrampoush,}, title = {Gamma background radiation in Yazd province A preliminary report}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: There are relatively rich uranium mines in regions of Saghand and Bafgh in Yazd province. This survey was carried out to provide a map of ambient gamma radiation of Yazd province and the probable effects of the existence of these mines on background radiation dose rates.Materials and Methods: The measurements of the outdoor and indoor–environmental exposures (including cosmic and terrestrial components) were accomplished by a portable Geiger Muller detector in the five areas in each of eight big cities of Yazd province.Results: The average exposure rates of indoor and outdoor ambient of Yazd province were 13.9 ±0.7 µRh-1 and 11.6 ±0.8 µRh-1 respectively. The average dose rates in air, resulting from gamma background radiation of indoor and outdoor were 122±6.8 nSvh-1 and 101.4 ±7.4 nSvh-1 respectively. The annual average of equivalent dose in air was found to be 1.03 ± 0.05 mSv, and the annual average of effective dose was 0.72 mSv.Conclusion: The results of this study in comparison with the same measurements in some other cities in Iran such as Isfahan and Tabriz, proves that the existence of uranium mines doesn’t affect gamma background radiation of Yazd province. }, Keywords = {,Background radiation,annual effective dose, cosmic rays,terrestrial Radiation}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {17-20}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-118-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-118-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {M.T.BahreyniToossi, and H.Zare,}, title = {Organ and effective dose arising from conventional diagnostic X-ray examinations by Monte Carlo simulation (MCNP-4C Code)}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: Monte Carlo simulation has been used by many researchers to calculate organ and effective dose of patients arising from conventional X-ray examinations. In this study the radiation transport code, MCNP-4C, has been used to perform Monte Carlo simulations to estimate radiation dose delivered to different organs in conventional X-ray examinations.Material and Methods: In this work we have made use of ORNL mathematical phantoms with few modifications which have been made. The source has been defined as a point source, emitting photons into a solid angle. The X-ray beam was shaped by a collimator to produce a rectangular field at the midline of the phantom. Results: To validate the simulation executed in this study normalized organs doses to unit ESD for hermaphrodite phantom were computed. Our results were compared with corresponding values presented by NRPB. In general organs doses obtained by application of MCNP-4C (present study) and corresponding values presented in NRPB were in good agreement. For further evaluation of our phantom, the values acquired for organ and effective doses by MCNP-4C and ODS-60 were compared. Conclusion: The technique we have developed is capable of estimating organ and effective doses with a better accuracy than dose values obtained by employment of NRPB and ODS-60 technique. }, Keywords = {,Organ dose,effective dose,diagnostic radiology,Monte Carlo,MCNP-4C}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {21-30}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-119-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-119-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {P.Ghoraeian, and H.Mozdarani, and Sh.Akhlaghpoor,}, title = {Effect of famotidine on radiation induced apoptosis in human peripheral blood leukocytes}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: Radioprotective effects of famotidine, an antagonist of H2 receptor clinically used for peptic ulcer treatment, was previously shown on radiation-induced micronuclei and chromosomal aberration in human peripheral blood lymphocytes and mouse bone marrow cells. This study was conducted to investigate radioprotective property of famotidine against radiation induced apoptosis in human peripheral blood leukocytes.Materials and Methods: Peripheral blood was obtained from 6 healthy volunteers including three males and three females. 12 µL of blood sample diluted in 1 ml RPMI-1640 supplemented with antibiotics and foetal calf serum was irradiated a dose of 8 Gy gamma rays generated from a Co-60 source at a dose rate of 1.27 Gy/min. After 48 h incubation in a 37 ºC incubator, cells embedded in low melting point agarose were transferred to a slide precoated with normal agarose. Cells were lysed and subjected to electrophoresis under neutral condition. Slides were then stained with ethidium bromide and analysed under a fluorescence microscope. 500 cells were analysed for each sample for the presence of apoptosis. The data were statistically evaluated using Man-Whitney non-parametric and ANOVA tests.Results: Results show a significant increase in apoptosis induction following 8 Gy γ-irradiation comparing with controls (p<0.001). The presence of famotidine at 50 and 100 µg/ml did not show any protective effect against radiation induced apoptosis however, the presence of famotidine at higher concentration (200 µg/ml) significantly deceased radiation induced apoptosis (p<0.001).Conclusion: The obtained results suggest that famotidine suppresses radiation-induced apoptosis at 200 µg/ml, probably via OH radical scavenging and an intracellular antioxidation mechanism. Famotidine appears to be a useful candidate for the future development of post-irradiation radioprotectors. }, Keywords = {,Leukocytes,apoptosis,famotidine,radioprotection,comet assay}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {31-36}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-120-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-120-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {S.RabieMahdavi, and A.Shirazi, and D.Sardari, and L.Sadri,}, title = {Developing a PC-based portal image contrast enhancement program}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: Delivering the radiation dose to the target volume and minimizing the dose to normal tissues are the main objectives in radiotherapy. The aim of our study is to enhance the contrast of the portal image to increase the accuracy of delineation of the organs in the irradiation field.   Methods: The software was written based on local enhancement of the pixel values in image matrix. The portal images were digitized by charged coupled device (CCD) in compatible format to be read with this program. This program was applied as an m-file in MATLAB imaging tool box to the matrices of the portal images. The imaging parameters before and after application of the program were compared.                                                                                                                         Results: The quantitative information of images was obtained. Analysis of the mean and standard deviations of the results has shown that the difference of the criteria between two groups of the images is significant (p< 0.01). In qualitative analysis, final images scores were based on “special weight “. The result of this test confirms the superior quality of the post-processed images from the professional view point. Conclusion: Superiority of final images within the three studied parameters by the experts (superiority of lung image, superiority of thorax and its soft tissue images) can be used to increase the accuracy of the treatment set up and decrease the probability of normal tissue complications.  }, Keywords = {,Contrast enhancement,radiotherapy,portal imaging,MATLAB,imaging tool box}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {37-42}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-122-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-122-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {F.Amouzgarhashemi, and M.Vakilha, and M.Sardari,}, title = {An unusual metastatic breast cancer presentation Report of a case}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTWe are reporting a 43-year-old female breast cancer case with a solitary metastatic adenocarcinoma in clivus. This patient with a stage II (T1N1M0) breast cancer history has been followed for 7 years.  Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM) and 6 courses chemotherapy with CMF (Cyclophosphamide, Metotrexate, 5FU) regimen were done for her at the time of diagnosis. Also, she took tamoxifen twenty mg per day for five years. She had no evidence of disease for 6 years. About one year ago she suffered diplopia and headaches for two months. MRI and CT scan studies showed a well defined mass in her clivus. Biopsy of mass was performed and pathologic report was metastatic adenocarcinoma. }, Keywords = {,Breast cancer,metastatic,radiotherapy}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {43-46}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-123-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-123-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {M.Asefi, and A.A.Fathivand, and J.Amidi,}, title = {Short report, Estimation of annual effective dose from 226Ra and 228Ra due to consumption of foodstuffs by inhabitants of Ramsar city, Iran}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: 226 Ra and 228 Ra contents in foodstuffs of Ramsar which is a coastal city in the northern part of Iran were determined by gamma spectrometry. Measurement results together with food consumption rates were used to estimate annual effective dose from  226 Ra and 228 Ra, due to consumption of food stuffs by inhabitants of Ramsar city.Materials and Methods: A total of 33 samples from 11 different foodstuffs including root  vegetables (beetroot), leafy vegetables (lettuce, parsley and spinach) and tea, meat, chicken, pea, broad bean, rice, and cheese were purchased from markets of Ramsar city and were analyzed for their 226 Ra and 228Ra  concentration. 1-8 kg of fresh weight sample was placed in Marinnelli beaker and sealed. The measurement of natural radioactivity levels as performed by gamma-spectrometry system, using a high purity germanium (HPGe) detector with 40% relative efficiency.Results: The highest concentrations of 226Ra and 228 Ra were determined in tea samples with 1570 and 1140 mBq/kg , respectively , and the lowest concentration of 226Ra  was in pea, cheese, chicken, broad bean, and beetroot.Conclusion: The maximum estimated  annual effective dose from 226 Ra and 228 Ra due to consumption of foodstuffs were determined to be  19.22   and   0.71 mSv   from  rice  and  meat samples respectively, where  as, the minimum estimated annual effective dose for  226Ra  was 0.017, 0.018 and 0.019 mSv from beetroot, cheese and pea samples respectively.  }, Keywords = {,Gamma spectrometry,226 Ra and 228 Ra,annual effective dose,Ramsar}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {47-48}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-124-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-124-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {L.Moghaddam-Banaem, and H.Afarideh,}, title = {· Technical note Design of a PLC system for automatic I-123 production}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: Design of the production system for Iodine-123 has begun recently in nuclear research centre of agricultural and medicine (NRCAM). The production system consists of pipes for xenon gas transfer, equipped with 10 valves, 3 heaters, fluid nitrogen and 2 vacuum pumps. In the first prototype the function of elements was being done manually by an operator. Because dispensing radiopharmaceuticals manually involves receiving radiation dose by operators, therefore, automation is very important step in radiopharmaceutical production. Materials and Methods:  The automatic system for production of Iodine-123 is PLC /135u Siemens, which is designed and installed for the first time in Iran. The PLC was connected to the production system through relays. By programming the CPU of the PLC, start up and control of the production procedure was executed automatically.Results: Automation leads to reduced presence of operator for Iodine-123 production. We were also able to record storage and transfer of materials and minimize risk of error.Conclusion:  Automation in production of radiopharmaceutical may lead to reduced radiation dose to personnel and achieved better dispensing precision. }, Keywords = {,Automation,programmable logic controller,Iodine-123}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {49-51}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-125-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-125-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {MahbodSedaghat, and M.H.Zahmatkesh, and R.Jaberi, and Sh.Akhlaghpoor, and M.Allahverdi,}, title = {Brachytherapy polymer gel dosimetry with xCT}, abstract ={ABSTRACTBackground: Polymer gels are an emerging new class of dosimeters which are being applied to the challenges of modern radiotherapy modalities. Research on gel dosimetry involves several scientific domains, one of which is the imaging techniques with which dose data is extracted from the dosimeters. In the current work, we present our preliminary results of investigating capability of X-ray CT for extracting brachytherapy dose distributions from a normoxic gel dosimeter. Materials and methods: A normoxic radiosensitive polymer gel was fabricated under normal atmospheric conditions and poured into three phantoms. Using Cs137 brachytherapy sources, the phantoms were irradiated with different dose distributions with a LDR Selectron remote after-loader. To improve SNR, 25 images were obtained of each slice for image averaging and an averaged background image of an un-irradiated gel phantom was then subtracted for artifact removal. To further improve the accuracy, a self-consistent normalized method was used for calibration of the dosimeters based on an assumption of a linear dose response between zero and maximum dose regions in the gel. Results: Although results reveal very similar CT-number gradients to that of brachytherapy dose distributions, but the method does not fulfill brachytherapy dosimetry requirements. This might be due to the high prescribed doses in this study which in turn results in a large change in the CT numbers. This change in the CT numbers of the images can not be considered to have a linear relationship with dose which was the basic assumption of our calibration method, so the results are just qualitatively comparable. Conclusion: In this study, the results of using X-ray CT for brachytherapy polymer gel dosimetry is promising but not still satisfying. Improving a proper calibration method for correlating CT numbers to dose will be significantly helpful for performing measurements with CT. The main limitation for CT is still a low signal to noise ratio especially in lower dose areas.}, Keywords = {,MAGICA,brachytherapy,normoxic,Polymer gel dosimetry,X-ray CT}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {101-108}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-162-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-162-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {A.T.Al-Kinani, and A.S.Al-Saidi, and S.Al-Anni,}, title = {Investigation of depleted uranium contamination in south west of Iraq}, abstract ={  ABSTRACT   Background : The application of DU emanation for first time contaminated certain areas in the south west region of Iraq after the second Gulf war (1991). These contaminated areas were discovered in 1994. Radioactive contamination was detected using the nuclear enterprise PCM5/1 in soil samples collected from two regions near by grazing lands. This study was done for assessment of DU contaminated soil in the regions under study.   Materials and Methods : Portable detector was used for radiation measurement of the contaminated area. Samples from each region were selected and taken to Baghdad kept in plastic bags for gamma ray spectroscopy measurement. Gamma-ray spectroscopy system consists of high purity germanium (HPGE) detector surrounded by appropriate shield. The measurement of detector efficiency using (GDR) computer programs, supplied by Canberra Company was used to analyze gamma-ray spectrum. The activity of 234 Th, 235 U, 238Pa and other natural isotopes were measured.   Results: The measurement by gamma –ray spectrometry system showed that six samples were heavily contaminated with DU, because the presence of 243Pa and 235U peak and the percentage ratio between 235 U/238U were less than 0.005, when both international mathematical methods, namely IAEA and Kosovo, were used. Because of existence of radiation equilibrium between 234Th and 234Pa, the measurements should be accurate.   Conclusion: The result showed that six of the samples were heavily contaminated with DU and there is a good agreement between the two methods. Because of the accuracy and ease of the Kosovo method, it is recommended for future investigations.}, Keywords = {,Kosovo Method,south west of Iraq,soil contamination,Depleted uranium}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {109-115}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-163-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-163-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {F.Atabi, and N.Alirezazadeh, and H.Garshasbi, and J.KarimiDiba, and M.J.Zarei,}, title = {Personnel internal radiation exposure to iodine-125 in a radioiodination laboratory: Exposure levels and trends}, abstract ={ABSTRACT Background: Monitoring internal exposure of individuals handling significant amounts of iodine-125 (I-125) for iodination is of great importance. These individuals are potentially exposed to external contamination, and internal contamination through inhalation, ingestion and intact skin absorption, to I-125. Considering radiological toxicity of this radionuclide its monitoring in the workplace and workers is necessary for radiation protection purposes. Materials and Methods: Direct measurement of I-125 in thyroid of individuals, known as a common and reliable method, was applied in the framework of monitoring program. Intakes of I-125 by individuals and the associated effective doses were evaluated using thyroid monitoring results and recommended metabolic models. Results: The monitoring results of the laboratory personnel for a period of 3 years are given and compared . According to the results , the intakes of I-125 by individuals in the early phase of laboratory operations were higher due to insufficient facilities and experience. Improvements in the radiation protection facilities of the laboratory and personnel including provision of personal respiratory protection devices resulted in significant reduction of I-125 intakes . Conclusion: According to 3 years results from the implementation of internal exposure monitoring program for personnel producing I-125 labeled compounds, the exposure levels of the personnel have contineously decreased due to improvements in working conditions and increasing of personnel experiences.}, Keywords = {}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {117-122}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-164-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-164-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {H.Garshasbi, and J.KarimiDiba, and M.H.Jahanbakhshian, and S.K.Asghari, and G.H.Heravi,}, title = {Measurements of natural uranium concentration in Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf water in by laser flourimetric method}, abstract ={  ABSTRACT   Background : Natural uranium exists in earth crust and seawater. The concentration of uranium might increase by human manipulation or geological changes. The aim of this study was to verify susceptibility of laser flourimetry method to determine the uranium concentration in Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf water.   Materials and Methods : Laser flourimetric method was used to determine the uranium concentration in several samples prepared from Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf water. Biological and chemical substances were eliminated in samples for better evaluation of the method.   Results: As the concentration of natural uranium in samples increases, the response of instrument (uranium analyzer) increases accordingly. The standard deviation also increased slightly and gradually.   Conclusion: Results indicate that the laser flourimetry method show a reliable and accurate response with uranium concentration up to 100 μg/L in samples after removal of biological and organic substances.}, Keywords = {,Persian Gulf water,caspian sea,laser flourimetry,Uranium}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {123-127}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-165-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-165-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {A.A.Mowlavi,}, title = {X-ray spectra calculation for different target-filter of mammograms using MCNP Code}, abstract ={ ABSTRACTBackground: An electron beam generated X-ray spectrum consists of characteristic X-ray and continuous bermsstrahlung. The aim of this research is calculating and comparing X-ray spectra for different target filter of mammograms. Materials and Methods: Monte Carlo is a very powerful tool to simulate a series of different target-filter assembly in order to calculate the X-ray spectra. MCNP version 4C has been used for simulation set up to calculate X-ray spectra for different target-filter combination of mammograms. Results: The spectra of different and the most commonly used target– filter in mammography equipments (Mo-Mo, Mo-Rh, Rh-Rh, W-Rh, Mo-Al and Rh-Al) have been calculated.  Conclusion: The computational results can be used to select a suitable X-ray spectrum for mammography as well as for computing the absorbed dose. Also, the Monte Carlo result of Mo-Mo is in good agreement with the published results.}, Keywords = {,Monte Carlo simulation,mammography,, target- filter combination,X-ray spectra,MCNP code}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {129-133}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-166-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-166-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {P.Abdolmaleki, and H.Abrishami-Moghddam, and M.Gity, and M.Mokhtari-Dizaji, and A.Mostafa,}, title = {Improving the performance of neural network in differentiation of breast tumors using wavelet transformation on dynamic MRI}, abstract ={ ABSTRACT Background: A computer aided diagnosis system was established using the wavelet transform and neural network to differentiate malignant from benign in a   group of patients with histo-pathologically proved breast lesions based on the data derived independ­ently from time-intensity profile.   Materials and Methods: The per­formance of the artificial neural network (ANN) was evaluated using a database with 105 patients' records each of which consisted of 8 quantitative parameters mostly derived from time-intensity profile using wavelet transform. These findings were encoded as features for a three-layered neural network to predict the outcome of biopsy. The network was trained and tested using the jack­knife method and its performance was then compared to that of the radiologists in terms of sensitiv­ity, specificity and accuracy using receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis.   Results: The network was able to classify correctly the 84 original cases and yielded a comparable diagnostic accuracy (80%), compared to that of the radiologist (85%) by per­forming a constructive association between extracted quantitative data and correspond­ing pathological results (r=0.63, p<0.001). Conclusion: An ANN supported by wavelet transform can be trained to differentiate malignant from benign breast tumors with a reason­able degree of accuracy.}, Keywords = {,Breast,neural network,wavelet transform, MR Imaging}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {135-142}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-167-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-167-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {A.Kazemian, and Sh.Kamian, and M.S.Hoseini, and M.R.Azizi,}, title = {Leiomyosarcoma of the tongue (Report of a case)}, abstract ={  ABSTRACT   Soft tissue sarcomas of the oral cavity are uncommon malignancies those of smooth-muscle origin are extremely rare. Leiomyosarcomas of the tongue are very rare. Either surgery or radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy are the treatment modalities which improve prognosis. We are presenting a 32-year-old man with leiomyosarcoma of the lateral aspect of the oral tongue with neck metastasis, who was referred to our radio therapeutic oncology department after glossectomy and radical modified neck dissection. The clinical and pathologic features together with his clinical course will be discussed. Six months after chemoradiotherapy, he developed a single metastasis in his right femur, and then by features of lung metastasis he died in a few weeks, unfortunately.}, Keywords = {,leiomyosarcoma,Tongue}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {143-147}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-168-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-168-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {M.Asefi, and A.A.Fathivand, and A.Amidi, and A.Najafi,}, title = {Determination of 226Ra and 228Ra concentrations in foodstuffs consumed by inhabitants of Tehran city of Iran}, abstract ={  ABSTRACTBackground : The presence of primordial radionuclide in human habitats has always been a source of prolonged exposure. Measurement of naturally occurring radionuclides in the environment can be used as baseline to evaluate the impact of non-nuclear activities and also routine releases from nuclear installations.   Materials and methods: A total of 56 samples from 18 different foodstuff including root vegetables ( beetroot, carrot, onion, potato, radish and turnip), leafy vegetables(lettuce, parsley, spinach and white cabbage) and lentil, kidney bean, Soya, eggs, rice, meat, tomato and cooking oil were purchased and analyzed by low level gamma spectrometry.  Results: The 226 Ra concentrations from root vegetables varied from 13-62 mBqkg-1 (fw) with turnip of highest concentration, i.e. 62mBq kg-1. Among leafy vegetables parsley showed the maximum concentration of 228 Ra equal to 173 mBqkg-1 (fw). 226 Ra and 228 Ra contents in the soya, 394 and 578 mBq kg-1 (fw) was much higher than those of other samples respectively.   Conclusion: Results indicate that foodstuff consumed by Tehran inhabitants have low radium content and are safe, as far as radium concentrations is concerned.}, Keywords = {,Tehran,Ra,naturally occurring radionuclide,Gamma spectrometry}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {149-151}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-169-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-169-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2005} } @article{ author = {M.Allahverdi, and M.R.Taghizadeh,}, title = {Achievable accuracy in brain tumors by in vivo dosimetry with diode detectors}, abstract ={ABSTRACT Background: In vivo measurements of applied dose during radiotherapy treatment, is important to ensure accurate dose delivery to patients. Uncertainty in dose delivery should fall within ±5% of the prescribed dose as recommended by ICRU. Assessment of dose for radiotherapy applications performed with various types of detectors. In this study, semiconductor diodes were used which have some advantages for clinical dosimetry. Materials and Methods: The brain tumors have generally treated with two fields using SSD technique. Entrance and exit dose were measured for each patient with diodes during treatment. Entrance and exit dose measurements have converted to midline dose. Measured entrance and exit doses have compared with calculated ones and large deviations (more than 5%) have observed. A farmer ionization chamber (0.6 cm) was used as the reference dose detector and a Perspex water phantom (30 30cm2 area and thickness ranging from 5 cm to 30 cm) were used to determine calibration and correction factors. Results: Correction factors were determined and variations more than 1% have used to obtain correct doses. Large deviations between measured and calculated for entrance (5.3%), exit (42%) and midline (47%) were detected. The difference was not found to be significant when comparing the measured entrance dose with the calculated one (p=0.696) and the measured exit dose with calculated one (p=0.643) and measured midline dose with calculated one (p=0.104). Conclusion: In vivo dosimetry is very useful to check the dose delivered to the patient. A high precision obtained when the calibration and correction factors for each parameter of influence on the diode response are carefully determined and applied to convert the diode signal in the adsorbed dose. In this study, the target-absorbed doses were estimated from the measured entrance dose and the measured transmission.}, Keywords = {,In vivo dosimetry,brain tumors,semiconductor detectors}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {153-161}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-187-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-187-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} } @article{ author = {A.H.Barati, and M.Mokhtari-Dizaji, and H.Mozdarani, and S.Z.Bathaei, and Z.M.Hassan,}, title = {Free hydroxyl radical dosimetry by using 1 MHz low level ultrasound waves}, abstract ={  ABSTRACTBackground : In order to quantify effects of ultrasound irradiation parameters under therapeutic condition, especially sonodynamic therapy, it is initially necessary to evaluate inertial cavitation activity in vitro conditions therefore, in this study, the effect of 1 MHz low level ultrasound based on °OH radicals generated by acoustic inertial cavitation in aqueous solution was monitored by their reaction with terephthalic acid (TA) to produce fluorescent 2-Hydroxyterephthalate acid (HTA) by spectrofluorometry method (Terephtalic acid dosimetry).   Materials and Methods: The study was designed to measure hydroxyl radicals in a field near to 1 MHz sonotherapy probe in progressive mode and low level intensity. The effect of ultrasound irradiation parameters (1MHz) containing duty factor, mode, intensity ultrasound and, time sonication in hydroxyl radical production have been considered. After preparation of solution of dosimetry and plotting calibration curve of spectrofluorescence, the effect of mode of sonication (continuous and pulsating), duty factor (20-80%), intensity (0-2 W/cm2, with step of 0.5 W/cm2), and sonication time (0-60min with step time of 10min) without increasing temperature to more than 3°C to determine the effective exposure in low level ultrasound were evaluated. The fluorescence intensity of TA solution before and after irradiation, in all cases was measured, and the results were reported as Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD).   Result : The result of experiments related to sonication mode for 1MHz ultrasound irradiation (2 W/cm2) show that continuous mode of sonication is 29% higher fluorescence intensity than the pulse mode in 80% duty cycle for sonodynamic therapy. With compensation of irradiation time for 1MHz sonication in different duty cycles, fluorescence intensity in continuous mode is 22% higher than the pulse mode in average. The amount of hydroxyl radicals production versus ultrasound intensity, and sonication time show with increasing intensity or sonication time in continuous mode, the hydroxyl radical production is linearity increased (R=0.99).   Conclusion: The results show that the terephthalic acid dosimetry is suitable for detecting and quantifying free hydroxyl radical as a criterion of inertial cavitation production over a range of condition in medical ultrasound fields.}, Keywords = {,Low level ultrasound,cavitation,terephthalic acid dosimetry,free hydroxyl radical dosimetry}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {163-169}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-188-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-188-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} } @article{ author = {M.Nain, and R.P.Chauhan, and S.K.Chakarvarti,}, title = {Alpha radioactivity in Indian cement samples}, abstract ={ABSTRACT  Background: The essential constituents of cements like lime, silica and alumina are derived from earth’s crust in which radioactive elements like uranium, thorium etc are also present in varying amounts almost everywhere. These two elements are considered as the parent elements of uranium and thorium radioactive decay series in which radon and thoron are produced respectively as decay products. In the present study the samples of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), Portland pozzolana cement (PPC) and some other cementious finishing materials like white cement, Plaster of Paris (POP), cement putty etc were collected and analysed for radium and radon concentrations along with radon exhalation rates.   Materials and Methods: Alpha sensitive LR-115 Type II plastic track detectors commonly known as “Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors” were used to measure the radium and radon concentration. The alpha particles emitted from the radon causes the radiation damaged tracks. The Chemical etching in NaOH at 60 ° C for about 90 minutes was done to reveal these latent tracks, which were then scanned and counted by an optical microscope of suitable magnification. By calculating the track density of registered tracks, the radon and radium concentrations along with exhalation rate of radon, were determined using required formulae.   Results: The radon and radium concentration in various brands of cements found to vary from 333 ±9.9 to 506 ±13.3 Bq m–3 and from 3.7 ± 0.1 to 5.6 ± 0.2 Bq kg–1 while in various cementious finishing materials used in the construction, these were found to vary from 378 ±19.7 to 550 ± 9.8 Bq m–3 and from 4.2 ± 0.2 to 6.1 ± 0.1 Bq Kg–1, respectively. Based on the data the mass and surface exhalation rates were also calculated.   Conclusion: The measurements indicate that there is marginal variation of the concentration of radium and radon in various brands of cements in India with lower levels in the cement samples having red oxide and higher levels in fly ash based cement samples but overall concentration levels of radon and radium are lower than that of average global values.}, Keywords = {,Portland cement,radioactivity,radon concentration,nuclear tracks,exhalation rate}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {171-176}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-189-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-189-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} } @article{ author = {B.Aghahadi, and Z.Zhang, and S.Zareh, and S.Sarkar, and P.S.Tayebi,}, title = {Impact of quality control on radiation doses received by patients undergoing abdomen X-ray examination in ten hospitals}, abstract ={  ABSTRACT   Background: The X-ray machines used for radiodiagnosis should meet certain quality assurance (QA) programmes . These are necessary to have good quality radiographs at reasonably low exposure to patients.   Materials and Methods: Dose reduction methods in abdomen X-ray examination were carried out in 10 hospitals in Tehran. This paper presents the work, which was implemented on 200 patients and evaluated using the entrance skin dose (ESD) in the Anterior-Posterior (AP) abdomen projection measured directly at the center of the X-ray field. In addition, the machine room, and dark room parameters, as well as work practices and repeat rates were studied .   Results: The quality control (QC) parameters and the ESD were evaluated utilizing an anthropologic phantom to define the optimal exposure condition at all hospitals before and after QC. Results show   that after using the QC parameters and optimization of the exposure condition s , the mean of mAs and ESD can be decrease d by 62% and 65% respectively.   Conclusion: The quality of the radiograph s generally increased. The reported method is easily implemented in any clinical situation where optimization of abdomen radiography is necessary.}, Keywords = {,Quality assurance,quality control,X-ray radiography,diagnostic radiology,entrance skin dose,dose reduction}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {177-182}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-190-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-190-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} } @article{ author = {F.Bouzarjomehri, and M.H.Zare, and D.Shahbazi,}, title = {Conventional and spiral CT dose indices in Yazd general hospitals, Iran}, abstract ={  ABSTRACT   Background: While the benefits of Computed Tomography (CT) are well known in accurate diagnosis, those benefits are not risk free. CT is a device with higher patient dose in comparison with other conventional radiological procedures. Is the reduction of exposures by requiring optimization of CT procedures [a principle concern in radiological protection]? In this study, the radiation dose of conventional and spiral CT were investigated and compared with European Commission Reference Dose Levels (EC RDLs).   Materials and Methods: The dosimetric quantities proposed in the European Guidelines (EG) for CT are Weighted Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDIW) for a single slice for axial scanning or per rotation for helical scanning and Dose-Length Product (DLP) for a complete examination. The patient-related data were collected for brain, neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis examination s in each scanner. For each type of examination, 10 typical patients were randomly included. CTDI with an active length of 10cm was measured in two CT scanners by using UNFORS (Mult-O-Meter 601) in head and body phantom (PMMA) with 16 cm and 32 cm in diameter respectively. Mean values of CTDIW , DLP and Effective Dose(ED) were estimated for those examinations .   Results: CTDIW had a range of 15.8-24.7 mGy for brain, 16.1-30.6mGy for neck, 6.8-9.2 mGy for chest, 6.8-9.8 mGy for abdomen and pelvis. DLP had a range of 246.4-397.7 mGy.cm for brain, 104.6-262.2 mGy.cm for neck, 135-248.4 mGy.cm for chest, 187-298.9 mGy.cm for abdomen and 197.2-319.4 mGy.cm for pelvis. The mean values of effective dose were 0.74 mSv for brain, 0.9 mSv for neck, 3.1 mSv for chest, 3.7 mSv for abdomen and 5 mSv for pelvis.   Conclusion: The obtained results in this study have shown that CTDIW and DLP are lower than EC RDLs and other studies, in other words , the performance of all scanners has been satisfactory as far as CTDIw and DLP are concerned. The CTDIW and DLP in the conventional CT are higher than the spiral CT values . With regard to ALARA principle, for the establishment of reference dose levels, the radiation dose with spiral CT scanners should be taken into account.}, Keywords = {,CTDIw,patient dose,CT, DLP,RDLs}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {183-189}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-191-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-191-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} } @article{ author = {A.Mirzajani, and N.Riyahi-Alam, and M.A.Oghabian, and K.Firuznia, and H.Saberi,}, title = {An fMRI study of human visual cortex in response to spatiotemporal properties of visual stimuli}, abstract ={  ABSTRACT  Background: The brain response to temporal frequencies (TF) has been already reported, but with no study reported for different TF with respect to various spatial frequencies (SF).  Materials and Methods: fMRI was performed by 1.5T GE-system in 14 volunteers during checkerboard, with TFs of 4, 6, 8 and 10Hz in low and high SFs of 0.5 and 8cpd.  Results: Average percentage BOLD signal change demonstrated the amplitude of the fMRI response to different TFs was maximal in 6Hz for high SF of 8cpd, while, it was maximal at TF of 8Hz for low SF of 0.5cpd.  Conclusion: The results are useful for vision therapy (such as the treatment of Amblyopia) and visual task selecting in fMRI studies.}, Keywords = {,Spatial frequency,cortical response,, temporal frequency,human,fMRI}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {191-194}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-192-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-192-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} } @article{ author = {K.Moosavi, and S.Vatankhah, and J.Salimi,}, title = {Relative measurement of heavy elements in the bile, gallbladder and gallstone}, abstract ={ABSTRACT  BACKGROUND: PIXE (Particle Induced X-Ray Emission) is a suitable method for the analysis of biological samples in which heavy trace elements are contained in light matrix elements. It is very important to know which factors or probably elements act as initial seed and lead to growing the sands. The goal of this study was to compare the relative values of Fe/K, Cu/K and Zn/K for gallstones, gallbladder, and bile of a specific patient for studying the origination of forming the gallstones.   MATERIAL AND METHODS: Human gallbladder, bile, and gallstone samples were obtained by surgical operation from 15 patients and are bombarded by 2.0 MeV energy proton beams produced by van de Graff accelerator in vacuum. All the gallstones were chosen of pigment type of stones and, all the patients were adults. In contrast with conventional methods, the shell and center of the sands has been analyzed separately. The PIXE spectrum analysis was performed using the nonlinear least square fitting code AXIL and GUPIX.   RESULTS: The results of detected minor and trace elements shows that the precipitation of calcium salt in the bile lead to reduction of crystals’ formation. Elemental comparison of pigment type of gallstone and bile shows that the concentration of calcium in the shell of the stones is four times more than that in the bile.   CONCLUSION: Precipitation of the calcium from the saturated bile on the cholesterols as a seed of gallstones led to reduced sands formation. Analysis of the gallbladder of the same patients revealed no relation between elemental concentrations of bile and gallstones.}, Keywords = {,Bile,gallbladder,gallstone,trace elements,PIXE}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {195-196}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-193-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-193-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} } @article{ author = {F.AmouzegarHashemi, and F.Ghaemmaghami, and N.Behtash,}, title = {Unusual presentation of gestational trophoblastic neoplasm: Report of two cases}, abstract ={  Abstract: Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasm (GTN) is among rare human tumors which can be observed with widespread metastasis. Two young patients with emergent neurologic symptoms with no gynecological problems are presented in this report. GTN was later diagnosed in both cases with brain metastasis. The first case: A 22 years old patient, admitted to the infectious disease ward, with probable diagnosis of Encephalitis. After brain CT scan and measurement of β human chorionic gonadotropin (βhCG), GTN with brain metastasis was confirmed. The second case: A 33 years old patient who underwent craniotomy due to hemorrhagic brain tumor in neurosurgery department. Brain metastatic GTN was confirmed by histological examinations. Both cases received multiagent chemotherapy concurrent with whole brain irradiation of 3000 cGy in 10 fractions (F) within a period of 2 weeks, and chemotherapy was continued for additional course. The patients were both well after about 22 months. Diagnosis of GTN should be considered in any woman of reproductive age.}, Keywords = {,Brain metastatic GTN,choriocarcinoma,multiagent chemotherapy,WBRT}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {199-202}, publisher = {Dr. Hossein Mozdarani}, url = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-194-en.html}, eprint = {http://ijrr.com/article-1-194-en.pdf}, journal = {International Journal of Radiation Research}, issn = {2322-3243}, eissn = {2345-4229}, year = {2006} }