Tolerable Risk for Hydrogen Sulfide in Sewage Treatment Plant- STP

Hydrogen sulphide is a toxic gas, it can cause a range of physiological responses from simple annoyance to permanent injury and death. There are a number of approaches to deal with the impacts of toxic gases. This study focused on minimizing the hazard exposure for hydrogen sulfide in the different operational zones for activated sludge process in sewage waterplant. Research tools/ approaches conducted were interviews, toxic gas testers, analysis report interpretation & quantitative risk assessment method. The study was conducted on Arabian Peninsula during the period (September 2019- September 2021). The (13) operational locations tested for toxic gas concentrations were inlet chamber, outlet channel, coarse /fine screens, primary sedimentation tank, activated sludge tanks, secondary sedimentation tanks, gas desulfurization unit, disc filters, chlorine dosing unit, sludge dewatering, sludge silos and digester tanks. The study found that the highest concentration for H₂S in the inlet chamber/ outlet channel. The severity hazards in the sewage treatment plant using activated sludge process are the asphyxiation by H₂S was extremely high can cause harm to public health, followed by the radiation hazard followed by electrical hazard, then (working at height, mechanical, traffic, health, chemical, physical, ergonomic, environmental, microbial and natural). The frequency of hazards occurrence is asphyxiation by H₂S was extremely high followed by the radiation hazard and health hazard including the infection with Covid 19 virus followed by mechanical hazard then (electrical, traffic, ergonomic, natural, chemical, physical and natural). Control measures were recommended to minimize the risk of asphyxiation by H₂S in the working environment at the STP.

Basis for the ICRP’s updated biokinetic model for systemic astatnie

The ICRP recently updated its biokinetic models for workers in a series of reports called the OIR (Occupational Intakes of Radionuclides) series. A new biokinetic model for astatine, the heaviest member of the halogen family, was adopted in OIR Part 5 (ICRP Publication 151, in press). This paper provides an overview of available biokinetic data for astatine; describes the basis for the ICRP’s updated model for astatine; and tabulates dose coefficients for intravenous injection of each of the two longest lived and most important astatine isotopes, 211At and 210At. Astatine-211 (T1/2 = 7.214 h) is a promising radionuclide for use in targeted α-particle therapy due to several favorable properties including its half-life and the absence of progeny that could deliver significant radiation doses outside the region of α-particle therapy. Astatine-210 (T1/2 = 8.1 h) is an impurity generated in the production of 211At in a cyclotron and represents a potential radiation hazard via its long-lived progeny 210Po (T1/2 = 138 d). Tissue dose coefficients for injected 210At and 211At based on the updated model are shown to differ considerably from values based on the ICRP’s previous model for astatine, particularly for the thyroid, stomach wall, salivary glands, lungs, spleen, and kidneys.

Outdoor Background Radiation Levels in Mining Locations and Major Activity Areas of Ebonyi State, South-Eastern, Nigeria and Their Radiological Impacts

Background: Miners and the people living close to mining sites are exposed to elevated levels of ionizing radiation with or without their knowledge. This study was designed to evaluate the outdoor background radiation levels in some selected mining locations and major activity areas of Ebonyi State, South-Eastern, Nigeria and their radiological impacts. Materials and Methods: The levels of background radiation in these mining areas were estimated using a well calibrated International Medicom CRM-100 Digital Radiation Monitor (survey meter). A cross-sectional survey was adopted for this study. Based on standard method, the radiation monitor was held at a distance of 1.0 meters above the ground and three readings taken at each location and the mean recorded. The radiation dose rates were calculated. A descriptive statistic and inferential statistic were used to summarize the data using statistical package for social Sciences SPSS version 21. Results: The mean dose rate for all the mining locations studied is 0.269+0.039(µSv/hr) and OAEDR of 0.470+0.068(mSv/yr). The excess life cancer risk for adult and children are 1.645 x 10-3 and 1.175 x 10-3 in the mining areas respectively. The mean outdoor Annual Equivalent Dose Rate (OAEDR) for the mining locations of Ebonyi States was 0.470±0.068 and mean of the radiation dose values recommended by UNSCEAR (2008) was 2.4± 0.48. There was statistically significance mean difference between the mean of OAEDR and the UNCEAR recommended value (p = 0.001). Conclusion: the outdoor background radiation levels emitted from the study area are within permissible limits for the general population. Therefore there is little risk of instantaneous radiation hazard within the mining areas of Ebonyi State. Key words: Absorb dose, excess life Cancer risk, radiation hazard.

Method of Wavelet-Decomposition to Research Cosmic Ray Variations: Application in Space Weather

Since their discovery, cosmic rays have been an integral part of the development of fundamental physics, from the discovery of radiation coming to the Earth from outer space and the identification of high-energy particles in it, as well as new fundamental symmetries in the laws of nature, to the knowledge of residual matter and magnetic fields in interstellar space. Cosmic rays are used in a number of fundamental and applied research in solar-terrestrial physics and are important in the research of the near-Earth space processes. Cosmic ray variations observed on the Earth’s surface are an integral result of various solar, heliospheric, magnetospheric and atmospheric phenomena. The most significant changes in cosmic ray parameters are caused by coronal mass ejections and subsequent changes in the parameters of the interplanetary magnetic field and solar wind. Therefore, the study of cosmic rays makes it possible to obtain valuable information about the processes in the near-Earth space and in the Earth’s magnetosphere during disturbed periods. This article proposes a method for analyzing cosmic ray variations. It is based on the use of wavelet data decomposition operations and their combination with threshold functions. By using adaptive thresholds, the operations for detecting anomalous changes in data and for suppressing the noise were developed. Anomalies in cosmic rays can cause radiation hazard for astronauts, radio communication failures, as well as malfunctions in satellites, leading to the loss of orientation and destruction. Therefore, the task of timely diagnostics of anomalies is urgent. The paper describes the algorithms for the implementation of the method and shows their application in the space weather problem. We used data from the network of ground stations of neutron monitors. The efficiency of the method for detecting abnormal changes of different amplitudes and durations is shown. Application of the method made it possible to detect clearly and to evaluate Forbush effects in cosmic rays, which precede the onset of magnetic storms of various nature and strength.

The prognostic role of inflammatory markers in COVID 19 patients – A retrospective analysis.

Background. Approximately 5% of COVID-19 patients suffer near fatal disease. Clinical and radiologic features may predict severe disease albeit with limited specificity and radiation hazard. Laboratory biomarkers are eyed as simple, specific and point of care triage tools to optimize management decisions.This study aimed to study the role of inflammatory markers in prognosticating COVID-19 patients.Methodology. A hospital based retrospective study was conducted on COVID-19 adult inpatients classified into three groups as mild disease-recovered [Group I], severe disease-recovered [Group II] and dead [Group III]. Categorical outcomes were compared using Chi square test. Univariate binary logistic regression analysis was performed to test the association between the explanatory and outcome variables. Unadjusted OR along with 95% CI was calculated. The utility of lab parameters (Ferritin, LDH, D dimer, N/L ratio and PLT/L ratio) in predicting severity of COVID-19 was assessed by Receiver Operative Curve (ROC) analysis. P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results. The mean age was 49.32 +/- 17.1 years. Among study population, 378 were Group I, 66 Group II, and 56 Group III. Median levels of Ferritin among the 3 groups were 62ng/mL, 388.50 ng/mL and 1199.50 ng/mL. Median value of LDH were 95U/L, 720 and 982.50(p <0.001). D-dimer values of 3 groups were 23.20ng/mL, 104.30 ng/mL and 197.10 ng/mL (p <0.001). CRP done qualitatively was positive in 2 (0.53%), 30 (45.45%) and 53 (94.64%) of patients. The odds of patients suffering severe COVID-19 rose with rising values of ferritin, LDH and D-dimer [unadjusted OR 1.007, 1.004 &1.020]Conclusion. One time measurement of serum ferritin, LDH, D-dimer and CRP is promising to predict outcomes for COVID 19 inpatients. Single qualitative CRP was equally good but more cost effective than quantitative CRP. The most specific combination was NLR, Lymphocyte percentage and D-dimer levels done between 7th – 10th day of symptoms.

Measurement and Analysis of Natural Radioactive Elements in Salty Sediments from Central and Southern Iraq

Purification of fifteen NaCl samples from natural and different area in the middle and south of Iraq are prepared and studied the structural characteristics of samples by powder X-ray diffraction analysis at 𝛌=1.542Å. The present work considered the specific activities of naturally occurring radioactive materials in salt samples, which are measured and analyzed using high resolution HPGe system. Also, the radiological parameters have been considered in this work. The average specific concentration (in Bq.kg-1) of the salt samples is found 16.864.92 for 226Ra, 5.972.05 for 232Th and 9.852.8 for 40K, respectively, which are below the national levels, 40Bq.kg-1, 30Bq.kg-1 and 400Bq.kg-1, respectively (UNSCEAR, 2000). Similarly the absorb dose rates are in the range3.71 nGy.h-1 to 12.591nGy.h-1.The measured radiation hazard indices show that the concentrations of these radionuclides in all samples are within the allowable limits.

Recent Advances in Second Near-Infrared Region (NIR-II) Fluorophores and Biomedical Applications

Fluorescence imaging technique, characterized by high sensitivity, non-invasiveness and no radiation hazard, has been widely applicated in the biomedical field. However, the depth of tissue penetration is limited in the traditional (400–700 nm) and NIR-I (the first near-infrared region, 700–900 nm) imaging, which urges researchers to explore novel bioimaging modalities with high imaging performance. Prominent progress in the second near-infrared region (NIR-II, 1000–1700 nm) has greatly promoted the development of biomedical imaging. The NIR-II fluorescence imaging significantly overcomes the strong tissue absorption, auto-fluorescence as well as photon scattering, and has deep tissue penetration, micron-level spatial resolution, and high signal-to-background ratio. NIR-II bioimaging has been regarded as the most promising in vivo fluorescence imaging technology. High brightness and biocompatible fluorescent probes are crucial important for NIR-II in vivo imaging. Herein, we focus on the recently developed NIR-II fluorescent cores and their applications in the field of biomedicine, especially in tumor delineation and image-guided surgery, vascular imaging, NIR-II-based photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy, drug delivery. Besides, the challenges and potential future developments of NIR-II fluorescence imaging are further discussed. It is expected that our review will lay a foundation for clinical translation of NIR-II biological imaging, and inspire new ideas and more researches in this field.

Natural radioactivity of rocks from the historic Jeroným Mine in the Czech Republic

This study reports the natural radioactivity of characteristic rocks found in the historic Jeroným Mine of the Czech Republic as measured under the laboratory conditions. The rocks analyzed included granites and schists weathered to varying degrees and collected from different levels of the underground workings of the Jeroným Mine. The mine itself has been subject to metal extraction (mainly tin and tungsten) since the sixteenth century and has recently been developed as a cultural and scientific attraction open to the public. Activity concentrations of 40K, 232Th and 238U were measured from nine rock samples using gamma-ray spectrometry. The activity concentrations of 40K varied from 595 Bq kg−1 to 1244 Bq kg−1, while 232Th varied from 25 Bq kg−1 to 55 Bq kg−1. The activities associated with 238U ranged from 46 Bq kg−1 to 386 Bq kg−1. The measured activities were used to estimate two radiation hazard indices typically applied to building materials, the activity concentration index I and the external hazard index Hex. Mean respective values of 1.02 and 0.77 for I and Hex indicate that the rocks found in the Jeroným Mine meet radiological safety standards for building materials and do not pose a risk to potential tourists and staff.

AWARENESS OF RADIATION HAZARD IN ORTHOPAEDIC RESIDENTS SURGEON IN A CENTRAL INDIA

One of the effective techniques which has evolved in contemporary orthopaedic practice is C-arm fluoroscopy in intra-operative orthopaedic procedures. Such techniques improve the competence of the surgeon while reducing the jejuneness and duration of the patients stay at hospital. Although having awareness about reported benefits of the device, there is increasing worry over the surgical teams elevated radiation exposure. The current research was undertaken on orthopaedic surgeons working in the region of Central India to assess the amount of radiation exposure if they follow the normal precautionary steps as well as to raise awareness and encouraging them to use the image intensifier safety in daily practice. In addition, to raise concerns of radiation safety and the befitting use of radiation in the operating room.Materials and Method: This is an observational review of data gathered by residents performing common orthopedic surgical operations in emergency and routine OT during one-year residency at a medical college hospital. We calculated the mean radiation exposure on each resident (orthopedic resident postgraduate-3yr) with and without lead apron protection, and compared it with the ICRP limit for radiation to body per year between 1st January 2020 and 31st December 2021.Result: Total radiation levels accumulated by one resident without lead apron over 1 year was calculated (35.88 milliSv). which was greater to ICRP limit for radiation to body per year (20milliSv).Total radiation levels accumulated by one resident with lead apron over 1 year was calculated (2.04 mSv).which was less than ICRP limit for radiation to body per year (20mSv).Conclusion: Orthopedic resident surgeons are not listed as Radiation personnel. Radiation toxicity, in addition to the risks of other surgical industries, is therefore an additional occupational danger. As a result, orthopedic resident surgeons should be concerned. During surgeries, junior orthopaedic residents vastly underestimate their level of radiation. They should adhere to the guidelines outlined above. The conventional assertion that radiation exposures during c arm use are negligible and should be disregarded, as the long-term adverse biological effects of continuous low-dose radiation exposure are uncertain at this time. Theres a chance of cancer, as well as genetic variations and fertility complications.

A prospective observational study depicting role of lung ultrasound in pediatric pneumonias

Background: Pneumonia is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children under five years of age. Chest x-ray poses radiation hazard to children and thus an alternative safe imaging modality must be explored for pediatric pneumonias.Methods: This prospective observational study included all children below 18 years of age. Majority of patients were below five years of age. All clinically suspicious patients were subjected to chest x-ray and lung ultrasound (LUS). Chest x-ray was considered as imaging diagnostic standard for pneumonia. Consolidation and dynamic air bronchogram were looked on LUS.Results: A total of 55 patients were included in study with 26 (47.2%) as infants and up to 47 (85.3%) as under five children. Out of 55 cases 32 cases (58.20%) were diagnosed as lobar pneumonia while 23 (41.8%) as bronchopneumonia on chest x-ray. LUS demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity of 90.63% and 100% for lobar pneumonia and 86.96 and 90.63% for bronchopneumonia respectively. Dynamic air bronchogram sign was found in all cases of lobar pneumonia on LUS and with sensitivity of 73.91% in bronchopneumonia.Conclusions: LUS proved itself as highly sensitive and specific modality for detecting consolidation and owing to safe non ionizing nature of ultrasound, it must be considered as an alternative to chest x-ray as an imaging diagnostic tool for pediatric pneumonia.