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MEDICAL APPLICATIONS OF NEUTRON ACTIVATION ANALYSIS

Journal Article · · Intern. J. Appl. Radiation and Isotopes

Neutron activation analysis, employing low flux intensities has been adapted to the estimation of anions and cations in biologic specimens. A flux of this magnitude is obtainable from Van de Graaff-beryllium sources, radiumberyllium systems, as well as nuclear reactors; hence the techniques should be technically feasible for a number of laboratories. Following exposure of 10 ml serum to such a flux for one hour, 15 radioisotopes are produced to the extent of 30 dpm or greater. The isotopes represent 8 cations (Na, K, Ca, Cu, Zn, Mg, Co, Mn) and 4 anions (Cl, Br, I, P). Methods of separating the isotopes, and distinguishing them by beta and gamma ray spectroscopy are discussed. Radiosodium (Na/sup 24/) is the principal gamma ray emitiing isotope produced in bloods it may be readily produced and estimated with fluxes of 10/sup 6/ or even lower. The necessity of removing radiosodium in order to estimate isotopes present in only trace quantities is stressed. Applications to the nondestructive analysis of tissues, red - cells, and other biologic specimens are discussed. (auth)

Research Organization:
U.S. Naval Hospital; National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Md.
NSA Number:
NSA-12-009033
OSTI ID:
4330169
Journal Information:
Intern. J. Appl. Radiation and Isotopes, Journal Name: Intern. J. Appl. Radiation and Isotopes Vol. Vol: 3
Country of Publication:
Country unknown/Code not available
Language:
English