Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) of zinc concentrations in scalp hair and fingernails samples of Algerian females with breast cancer

In the present work, zinc levels were measured in scalp hair and fingernails in order to identify potential risk factors for breast cancer. The samples were collected from 40 Algerian breast cancer female patients and from 20 normal subjects matching the same age range. The concentration of zinc was analyzed using Instrumental neutron activation analysis technique (INAA). In scalp hair samples it was found in the range 119–792 μg/g for the normal subjects and in the range 82–806 μg/g for the patients, with an increase rate of 10.9%. The range of concentration of zinc in fingernails was found between 89 and 247 μg/g for normal subjects and between 75 and 276 μg/g for the patients with an increase rate of 2.5%. The influence of age on zinc concentration was also investigated. The obtained results show some consistency with those obtained by other groups.

Reply to Blair

Blair provides a thorough review of data he claims stands in opposition to our narrative concerning the origins of IIa40/Early Blue glass trade beads and their presence in arctic Alaska prior to Columbus’ initial voyage. He employs three lines of evidence: historical and archaeological data, Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis, and radiocarbon dating. Our reply addresses his application of these data sets, clarifying his use of our data to arrive at his conclusions. While we continue to disagree with Blair, we do wish to acknowledge his time spent on debating the issue thereby furthering all of our understanding on this topic.

Geochemical and Isotope Anomalies in Sioma River Gorge, Western Tajikistan

For a better understanding of the previously observed increased natural radioactivity at the confluence of the Varzob and Sioma rivers, Central Tajikistan, the activity concentration of natural radioactive 40K, Th and U daughters as well as of the anthropogenic 137Cs were determined in nine locations covering the entire Sioma River. The radiometric determinations evidenced, in addition to increased activity concentrations of Th and U daughter radionuclides, an anomalous accumulation of anthropic 137Cs and natural 210Pb in the middle of the Sioma gorge. Complementarily, the mass fractions of natural Th and U determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis evidenced an increased presence of Th and U, which, in some places, overpasses six-times the average mass fraction found in the upper continental crust. The possible influence of active air transport from the southern Tadjik plane during the Afghani storms, as well as the presence of actinide-rich minerals, were analyzed and discussed.