bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 90-Day Subchronic Exposure to Heated Tobacco Product Aerosol Caused Differences in Intestinal Inflammation and Microbiome Dysregulation in Rats
Authors: Tian Yushan , Cheng Jiale , Yang Yanan , Wang Hongjuan , Fu Yaning , Li Xianmei , Wang Wenming , Ma Shuhao , Xu Xiaoxiao , Lu Fengjun , Feng Pengxia , Han Shulei , Chen Huan , Hou Hongwei , Hu Qingyuan , Wu Chongming
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Smoking is one of the most important predisposing factors of intestinal inflammatory diseases. Heated tobacco product (HTP) is a novel tobacco category that is claimed to deliver reduced chemicals to humans those reported in combustible cigarette smoke (CS). However, the effect of HTP on the intestine is still unknown.

Aims and Methods

Our study aims to explore the potential effects of HTP on intestine. In the framework of Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines 413 guidelines, Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to HTP aerosol and CS for 13 weeks. The atmosphere was characterized and oxidative stress and inflammation of the intestine were investigated after exposure. Furthermore, the feces we performed with 16S sequencing and metabolomics analysis.

Results

HTP aerosol and CS led to obvious intestinal damage evidenced by increased intestinal proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress in male and female rats After HTP and CS exposure, the abundance that obviously changed were Lactobacillus and Turiciacter in male rats and Lactobacillus and Prevotella in female rats. HTP mainly induces the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acyls such as short-chain fatty acids and tryptophan, while CS is involved in the main metabolism of bile acids, especially indole and derivatives. Although different metabolic pathways in the gut are mediated by HTP and CS, both inflammation and oxidative stress were ultimately induced.

Conclusions

HTP aerosol and CS-induced intestinal damage are mediated by different gut microbiota and metabolites, while both lead to inflammation and oxidative stress.

Implications

The concentration of various harmful components in heated tobacco product aerosol is reported lower than that of traditional cigarette smoke, however, its health risk impact on consumers remains to be studied. Our research findings indicate that heated tobacco products and cigarette smoke inhalation induced intestinal damage through different metabolic pathways mediated by the gut microbiome, indicating the health risk of heated tobacco products in the intestine.
High Hepatitis B Prevalence and Vaccination Needs Among Transgender Women and Men Sex Workers in Barcelona, Spain
Authors: Antuori Adrián , Not Anna , Mesías-Gazmuri Jocelyn , González Victoria , Montoro-Fernandez Marcos , Folch Cinta , Saludes Verónica , Villar Marta , Meroño Mercè , Paytubi Sonia , Alemany Laia , Casabona Jordi , Martró Elisa ,   SexCohort Group, Folch C , Ferrer L , González V , Muñoz R , Mesías-Gazmuri J , Egea L , Casabona J , Martró E , Saludes V , Antuori A , Not A , González-Gómez S , Alemany L , Pavón M A , Paytubi S , Esteban A , Vergara M , Rodríguez V , Morey F , Tous S , Montoliu A , de Sanjosé S , Villegas L , Villar M , Adell H , Santander K , Meroño M , Cebrián M , Carrascal C , Longares E , Martínez L , Almirall R , Mansilla R , Lletjós P , Drou-Roget G , Álvarez-Vargas A
Published: July 2024

Background

Transgender women sex workers (TWSWs) and men sex workers (MSWs) are especially vulnerable to acquiring hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We aimed to describe HBV prevalence (hepatitis B surface antigen [HBsAg] and core antibody [HBcAb]) and associated risk factors for HBV exposure (HBcAb), to assess vaccination status and risk factors for no prior vaccination, and to compare HBV prevalence and vaccination status between TWSWs and MSWs.

Methods

The SexCohort study was advertised to TWSWs and MSWs through several communication channels. At cohort entry through 2 community-based organizations in Barcelona, the study population was screened for HBV and other sexually transmitted infections, and an epidemiological questionnaire was administered (n = 271).

Results

Overall, 93.0% of participants were migrants, mostly from South and Central American countries. HBsAg prevalence was 1.9% (TWSWs, 2.4%; vs MSWs, 0.9%; P = .42), and previous exposure to HBV was 31.8% (TWSWs, 38.5%; vs MSWs, 20.8%; P = .002). Over 5 years of sex work (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 9.35), prior exposure to Treponema pallidum (aOR, 3.49), and treatment with anxiolytic drugs (aOR, 3.23) were associated with HBV exposure. Overall, 33.7% of participants exhibited immunity from vaccination (TWSWs, 30.8%; vs MSWs, 38.61%; P < .001), while 34.4% were candidates to HBV vaccination (TWSWs, 30.8%; vs MSWs, 40.6%; P < .001). Never having been on pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (odds ratio [OR], 4.23) and non-Spanish origin (OR, 5.00) were associated with no prior HBV vaccination.

Conclusions

There is a need to reinforce screening and vaccination programs aimed at TWSWs and MSWs as integrated services offered at the community centers commonly accessed by these populations.
Clinical Predictors of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Lung Disease and Coisolates of Potential Pathogenic Microorganisms in Noncystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis
Authors: Wang Ping-Huai , Shu Chin-Chung , Sheu Chau-Chyun , Chang Chia-Ling , Hsieh Meng-Heng , Hsu Wu-Huei , Chen Ming-Tsung , Ou Wei-Fan , Wei Yu-Feng , Yang Tsung-Ming , Lan Chou-Chin , Wang Cheng-Yi , Lin Chih-Bin , Lin Ming-Shian , Wang Yao-Tung , Lin Ching-Hsiung , Liu Shih-Feng , Cheng Meng-Hsuan , Chen Yen-Fu , Cheng Wen-Chien , Peng Chung-Kan , Chan Ming-Cheng , Chen Ching-Yi , Jao Lun-Yu , Wang Ya-Hui , Chen Chi-Jui , Chen Shih-Pin , Tsai Yi-Hsuan , Cheng Shih-Lung , Lin Horng-Chyuan , Chien Jung-Yien , Wang Hao-Chien
Published: July 2024

Background

In bronchiectasis, nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) lung disease (NTM-LD) is a well-known coexisting infection. However, microorganism coisolates and clinical NTM-LD predictors are poorly studied.

Methods

Patients with bronchiectasis diagnosed by means of computed tomography between January 2017 and June 2020 were screened, using the date of computed tomography as the index date. Those with a major bronchiectasis diagnosis in ≥2 follow-up visits after the index date were enrolled in the study, and NTM-LD occurrence and its association with pneumonia and hospitalization within 1 year were analyzed.

Results

Of the 2717 participants, 79 (2.9%) had NTM-LD diagnosed. The factors associated with NTM-LD included hemoptysis, postinfectious bronchiectasis, a tree-in-bud score ≥2, a modified Reiff score ≥4, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (adjusted odds ratios, 1.80, 2.36, 1.78, 2.95, and 0.51, respectively). Compared with patients in the non-NTM group, those with NTM-LD had higher rates of hospitalization (15.9% vs 32.9%; P < .001) and pneumonia (9.8% vs 20.3%; P = .003). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common microorganism in those with NTM-LD and those in the non-NTM group (10.1% vs 7.8%; P = .40). However, compared with those in the non-NTM group, Acinetobacter baumannii and Escherichia coli were more prevalent in patients with NTM-LD (0.7% vs 3.8% [P = .03%] and 1.0% vs 3.8% [P = .05], respectively).

Conclusions

Postinfectious bronchiectasis with hemoptysis, higher radiological involvement, and a tree-in-bud pattern were associated with NTM-LD risk. The rate of A baumannii and E coli coisolation was higher in bronchiectasis populations with NTM-LD.
Successful Treatment of Refractory Cutaneous Protothecosis With MAT2203, an Oral Lipid Nanocrystal Formulation of Amphotericin B
Authors: Pechacek Joseph , Schmitt Monica M , Ferrè Elise M N , Webb Taura , Goldberg Joel , Pathan Sabina , Banerjee Camellia , Barber Princess , DiMaggio Thomas , Quinn Anne , Matkovits Theresa , Castelo-Soccio Leslie , Nussenblatt Veronique , Lionakis Michail S
Published: July 2024

Prototheca wickerhamii is a rare cause of cutaneous and systemic infection that requires long treatment courses with potentially toxic medications. We describe a patient with cutaneous protothecosis refractory to triazole monotherapy who experienced clinical and radiographic improvement with the novel oral lipid nanocrystal formulation of amphotericin B without experiencing toxicity.
Clinical and molecular characteristics of patients with brain metastasis secondary to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yousef Mahmoud , Hurd Mark W , Yousef Abdelrahman , Ludmir Ethan B , Pillai Ashwathy B , Peterson Jennifer , Koay Eugene J , Albarouki Sali , Tzeng Ching-Wei , Snyder Rebecca , Katz Matthew H G , Wang Huamin , Overman Michael J , Maitra Anirban , Pant Shubham , Smaglo Brandon G , Wolff Robert A , Yao James , Shen John P , Zhao Dan
Published: July 2024

Background

The prognosis for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is poor. Secondary brain metastasis (Br-M) occurs in less than 1% of patients. Clinical characteristics and molecular alterations have not been characterized in this rare patients’ subset.

Materials and methods

The Foundry software platform was used to retrospectively query electronic health records for patients with Br-M secondary to PDAC from 2005 to 2023; clinical, molecular, and overall survival (OS) data were analyzed.

Results

Br-M was diagnosed in 44 patients with PDAC. Median follow-up was 78 months; median OS from initial PDAC diagnosis was 47 months. Median duration from PDAC diagnosis to Br-M detection was 24 months; median OS from Br-M diagnosis was 3 months. At Br-M diagnosis, 82% (n = 36) of patients had elevated CA19-9. Lung was the most common preexisting metastatic location (71%) with Br-M, followed by liver (66%). Br-M were most frequently observed in the frontal lobe (34%, n = 15), cerebellar region (23%, n = 10), and leptomeninges (18%, n = 8). KRAS mutations were detected in 94.1% (n = 16) of patients who had molecular data available (n = 17) with KRASG12V being the most frequent subtype 47% (n = 8); KRASG12D in 29% (n = 5); KRASG12R in 18% (n = 3). Patients who underwent Br-M surgical resection (n = 5) had median OS of 8.6 months, while median OS following stereotactic radiosurgery only (n = 11) or whole-brain radiation only (n = 20) was 3.3 and 2.8 months, respectively.

Conclusion

Br-M is a late PDAC complication, resulting in an extremely poor prognosis especially in leptomeningeal disease. KRAS was mutated in 94.1% of the patients and the KRASG12V subtype was prevalent.
How inequality undermines institutions
Authors: Posner Eric A
Published: July 2024

This commentary, on an article by Satz and White, argues that redistribution of wealth for the purpose of advancing equality (rather than improving the worst off) can be provided an institutional defence. The argument is that major institutions of society—the market, the legal system, the educational system, and agency regulation—perform their social functions most effectively when inequality is not too high.
Benefits and tax credits
Authors: Hoynes Hilary , Joyce Robert , Waters Tom
Published: July 2024

The UK government spends over £100 billion each year on working-age benefits, predominantly for those with low incomes or disabilities. Broadly, these payments protect families from hardship, reduce inequality, and support disabled people. But governments across the world and over time have designed these programmes in very different ways. We examine trends in benefit policy in the UK over time, including the treatment of work, support for children and housing costs, and the role of health-related benefits. We then provide a survey of the existing evidence on a wide range of questions in benefit policy design, including take-up, work incentives, and the impact on the next generation—and bring this evidence to bear on key UK policy questions.
Public policy and labour market competition
Authors: Ashenfelter Orley
Published: July 2024

Broad recent interest in the failure of competition in labour markets has led to several new public policy initiatives. This commentary reviews initiatives related to antitrust laws, as well as initiatives associated with the labour market effects of firm mergers and non-compete and non-solicitation agreements.
Gendered economic inequalities: a social policy perspective
Authors: Bennett Fran
Published: July 2024

This commentary addresses gender inequalities from a social policy perspective. It extends the analysis by Andrew et al. in this collection; focuses on lower incomes and social security; and recognizes both individual financial autonomy and interdependence as central. The commentary discusses labour market issues, including how to improve security and in-work progression for women in particular. Policy proposals are also made to limit the disruptions to women’s working lives by care for elderly or disabled people. More broadly, the commentary argues that a key question for any policy is whether it will help transform gender roles and relationships, to allow both sexes to fulfil their capabilities to the full. In addition, both male disadvantage and inequalities and economic dependence within households require more attention. Impact analysis should therefore explore not only distribution between households at the time but also potential effects on individual women and men over the life course. A balance is needed between moves towards economic independence and recognition of past, and continuing, inequalities. Policies can potentially tackle gender inequalities directly, and norms and values that may affect them indirectly. Proposals are put forward for changes in ‘family policy’, including towards second earners, parental leave and childcare. Finally, the commentary argues that the combination of a focus on autonomy and agency for all with awareness of our interdependence as a society and wider world means that gender issues must be central to the Deaton Review, not just for their own sake but also in a broader context.
Families and inequalities
Authors: Kiernan Kathleen , Crossman Sam , Phimister Angus
Published: July 2024

This article examines inequalities between families with children in the UK. Families are central to the nurturing and raising of children, yet not every family is able to provide the same level of resources, support and opportunities. Moreover, in recent decades, changing partnership and fertility behaviours has led to greater diversity, fragility and complexity between families. Here we examine whether there are discernible socio-economic gradients and geographical variation in the recent changes in partnership and parenthood behaviour. We also assess the extent to which these family developments and the attributes of the families in which children are born and reared contribute to disparities in their lives and their future life chances, with a particular foci on education, income, mental well-being, parenting and parental relationships. To this end, we provide new analyses and draw on an extensive literature from a range of disciplines.
Political inequality: reasons for optimism?
Authors: Cagé Julia
Published: July 2024

I comment on the article in this collection by Ansell and Gingrich, who highlight the concept of political inequality. Then they investigate empirically whether political inequality has risen in line with economic inequality over the past few decades in the UK. This is an important question, as political inequality can easily generate an inequality trap. I focus on the last dimension of political inequality that Ansell and Gingrich consider—who politicians are—and highlight that it is strongly linked to the first two: who votes and who they vote for. I first argue that the lack of political representativeness may at least partly explain the rise in abstention. I then highlight the role played by campaign finance regulations in explaining the relationship between political and economic inequalities. Finally, using the example of gender underrepresentation, I argue that shifting descriptive representation may have concrete policy consequences.
Perceptions and preferences for redistribution
Authors: Stantcheva Stefanie
Published: July 2024

The relationship between the degree of inequality and the demand for redistribution has been a central question in political science and political economy. The famous median-voter model predicts that higher inequality, reflected in a growing gap between the income of the average and the median voter, should lead to increased demand for redistribution, as policymakers cater to the median voter’s preferences. Yet data from Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries show that, despite increases in inequality in those countries, there was no corresponding increase in demand for redistribution. Part of the explanation of this puzzle lies in the realization that it is not only (or even mainly) reality but also perceptions that shape support for policy. This article will explore recent evidence, using large-scale social economics surveys and experiments, that sheds light on beliefs about inequality, social mobility, diversity and immigration, social position, and understanding of how policies work.
What is wrong with inequality?
Authors: Satz Debra , White Stuart
Published: July 2024

This article lays out the reasons we have for objecting to certain differences between what individuals have and in how they relate to one another. Our aim is to show that there is a plurality of reasons to be concerned with such differences and not simply with the absolute amount that each individual has considered independently. Furthermore, we argue against a limited focus on income inequality. Other forms of inequality can also matter.
Political inequality
Authors: Ansell Ben , Gingrich Jane
Published: July 2024

The rise of economic inequality in the UK over the past four decades raises serious questions about the state of political equality in Britain. In this article, we analyse changes in political equality from voter participation to voting behaviour to the descriptive and substantive representativeness of Parliament. We find that voter participation in the electoral process has become substantially more unequal since the 1960s but that traditional geographic patterns of voting, where wealthier constituencies typically voted Conservative, have almost entirely vanished. Descriptively, Parliament has become more reflective in demographic and socio-economic terms of the population. In terms of substantive representation, policymaking in Britain has been more responsive to the interests of older homeowners than younger, less wealthy groups. Almost all British citizens nonetheless feel less represented by politicians and policymaking than they did several decades ago.
Trade and price-index inequality
Authors: Atkin David
Published: July 2024

This commentary reviews the literature exploring the impact of international trade on the cost of living. We first summarize the strategies researchers have used to identify such impacts in the data before discussing the evidence for heterogeneity in price effects across income groups and across regions. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of how trade may have affected components of the price index such as differentiated manufactures and services where measurement is more challenging and where the existing literature has made less progress.
Innovation and inequalities
Authors: Aghion Philippe , Griffith Rachel
Published: July 2024

Innovation is a key source of sustainable growth, but it can affect inequalities in many ways—increasing some inequalities and decreasing others. The impact of any particular innovation on inequalities will depend importantly on who controls the property rights to exploit the innovation and what they decide to do with it. The introduction of an innovation can affect the power of different actors in a market, the way markets work, and the returns to different attributes of actors in the market. All of these factors and more will influence how innovation affects inequalities. We would like policy to encourage innovation while making sure that yesterday's innovators do not use their rents to deter innovation by new entrants, thereby eventually undermining productivity growth and social mobility, and increasing inequalities. This requires a combination of regulation, progressive taxation, and enlightened competition policy.
Why has the UK’s social security system become so means-tested?
Authors: Timmins Nicholas
Published: July 2024

Since its foundation in 1948, the UK’s modern social security system has become increasingly means-tested, even though the intention of its conceptual founder, Sir William Beveridge, was that it should be overwhelmingly insurance based. This commentary looks at some of the key factors that have driven the change and briefly asks whether what remains of the national insurance system should be preserved.
Top income inequality and tax policy
Authors: Delestre Isaac , Kopczuk Wojciech , Miller Helen , Smith Kate
Published: July 2024

The share of pre-tax income flowing to the top of the UK income distribution increased continually and substantially in the three decades leading up to the financial crisis, but has changed little since 2013. Using microdata sampled from UK tax records, we describe the nature of top incomes in the UK and how they are taxed. We show that wage income is the dominant source of pre-tax income, even for highest-income 0.1% of UK adults. However, ‘active’ business income—derived from self-employment or closely-held incorporated businesses—is considerably more important for the top 1% than for those with lower incomes. High-income wage earners work disproportionately in financial services. The high-income self-employed are predominately working in partnerships in professions such as accountancy and legal services. Overall, UK income taxes are progressive: average tax rates rise with income. Taxes on top incomes have been increased since 2010, with the result that the post-tax share of income flowing to the top has fallen. But average tax rates vary significantly within the top and depend on how income is received. Incomes from business ownership and investment are taxed at lower rates than employment income. We discuss options for reforming the taxation of top incomes.
The role of parenting in child development
Authors: Doepke Matthias , Zilibotti Fabrizio
Published: July 2024

We study the consequences of unequal parenting on children’s long-term outcomes. Our analysis reveals that parenting style exerts a distinct influence on children’s development, separate from socio-economic factors such as education and race. We contend that parenting styles adapt to the evolving environment in which children are raised. Although correlated with socio-economic family characteristics, this factor demonstrates an independent impact. Recognizing how parents respond to economic shifts is crucial for deriving policy implications. Supporting this perspective, our findings indicate that parenting choices exhibit systematic variation across countries and local communities with varying formal and informal institutions. Therefore, a critical next step in addressing inequality in early-childhood outcomes involves examining how parents will modify their own behaviours in response to potential policy changes.
Impact of light and nutrient availability on the phagotrophic activity of harmful bloom-forming dinoflagellates
Authors: Mena Catalina , Long Marc , Lorand Ophélie , Malestroit Pascale , Rabiller Emilie , Maguer Jean-François , L’helguen Stéphane , Regaudie De Gioux Aurore
Published: July 2024

Phagotrophy is a key nutritional mode for many bloom-forming dinoflagellates that can supplement their carbon and nutrient requirements. However, the environmental drivers and ecological relevance of phagotrophy in algal blooms are still poorly understood. This study evaluates the effect of light and nutrient availability on the phagotrophic activity of three common bloom-forming dinoflagellates (Alexandrium minutum, Heterocapsa triquetra and Prorocentrum micans) using three fluorescently labeled preys: bacteria, Synechococcus and the haptophyte Isochrysis galbana. The three dinoflagellates exhibited distinct responses to light and nutrient availability in terms of growth, cell size, prey ingestion and preference. A. minutum and H. triquetra showed higher cell-specific ingestion rates on bacteria (0.53 ± 0.13 and 1.64 ± 0.39 prey dinoflagellate−1 h−1, respectively) under co-limited nutrient and light availability, whereas P. micans showed higher ingestion on Synechococcus (0.93 ± 0.22 prey dinoflagellate−1 h−1) under low-light availability alone. However, the three dinoflagellates exhibited the highest carbon and nitrogen-specific ingestion rates when feeding on the larger prey I. galbana. Our findings indicate that phagotrophy could be of advantage in short periods of light or nutrient limitation and may play different roles during the development of blooms, likely influencing the energy transfer through the food web.
Synthesis and characterisation of calcium–iron–aluminium nanocomposites for electromagnetic radiation shielding application
Authors: Ramachandrappa Umashankara Raja , Shivanna Vidya Yakekadakalu , Shastry Manjunatha Holaly Chandrashekara , Lakshmaiah Seenappa , Nagarthnamma Sridhar Krishnachari , Rajachari Munirathnam , Mahadevappa Rajashekara Koppa , Shivanna Manjunath
Published: July 2024

Electromagnetic shielding parameters are crucial to investigate unexplored nanoparticles and their nanocomposites. Herein, calcium–iron–aluminium (Ca: Fe: Al) nanocomposites are synthesised using the simple solution combustion technique. The as-synthesised nanocomposites with various doping concentrations of Al nanoparticles are characterised to study the structural and surface parameters and to confirm the successful formation. Further, the procured Ca: Fe: Al nanocomposites along with various doping concentrations are utilised for electromagnetic shielding applications, and various shielding parameters are calculated. It was confirmed that Ca: Fe: Al nanocomposites are suitable for electromagnetic shielding applications.
Radiation dose due to uranium in groundwater to the population of Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka, India
Authors: Lavanya Bevinathalapura Shankarappa Kempalingappa , Namitha Shivachara Nandish , Manilal Smithri , Ghosh Malay , Chandrashekara Mallupura Shrirangaiah
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the concentration of uranium in 67 groundwater samples of Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka, India, estimated using an LED fluorimeter. The age-dependent ingestion dose to the population of the district is also studied. The concentration of uranium in groundwater varied from 0.20 to 57.50 μg L−1 with an average of 4.40 μg L−1. The annual ingestion dose due to uranium varies from 0.18 to 142.68 μSv y−1, with an average of 7.11 μSv y−1. The ingestion dose received by the population in the study area is less than the recommended level of 100 μSv y−1 by the World Health Organization (2011).
Gamma-ray shielding characteristics of concrete containing different percentage of ceramics for different energies
Authors: Chikkegowda Ashwitha , Adarsh Raj Lingaraj , Belur Mohan Sankarshan , Sannathammegowda Krishnaveni
Published: July 2024

To shield people from dangerous gamma radiation, it is imperative to fabricate inexpensive and environmentally friendly materials. In the present work, suitability of concrete with various % concentrations of ceramics as gamma-ray shielding material has been studied. In this regard, concrete mixture using M-sand and cement with ceramic as filler in different concentrations has been prepared. The mass attenuation coefficients of the prepared samples were measured for different concentrations of ceramics such as 15, 30, 45 and 60%. The mass attenuation coefficients, half value layer (HVL) and tenth vale layer (TVL) of the prepared samples were determined using gamma-ray spectrometer with NaI(Tl) detector at 511, 661.6, 1173, 1332 keV gamma energies. Experimentally obtained mass attenuation coefficients varied from 0.080 to 0.090, 0.074 to 0.086, 0.056 to 0.072 and 0.054 to 0.055 cm2 g−1 at 511, 662, 1173 and 1332 keV, respectively. Therefore concrete mixture with ceramics filler could be a promising shielding material than the bare concrete.
Multifiller-based polymer composites for shielding high energy ionising radiation
Authors: Rajanna Ambika Madalakote , Kuttukaran Sherry S , Nagaiah Ningaiah , Melavanki Raveendra , Shashi Kumar Shivappa K , Kumar Suman Santosh
Published: July 2024

Polydimethyl silicone rubber-based polymer composites filled with molybdenum and bismuth were fabricated using simple open mold cast technique. The physical and chemical structure and gamma shielding parameters like attenuation coefficient, half-value layer (HVL) thickness and relaxation length have been investigated for the said novel materials using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gamma ray spectrometer. XRD study reveals the crystalline nature of the composites. It is evident from FTIR studies that there is no chemical interaction between the polymer matrix and filler particles. The results of attenuation studies reveal that the linear attenuation coefficient increases with addition of Bi and Mo and is found to be 0.653, 1.341 and 1.017, 1.793 and 0.102, 0.152 cm−1 for 1MMB and 2MMB polymer composites at 80, 356 and 662 keV gamma rays, respectively. The HVL thickness of the materials is found to be 1.06, 0.51 and 0.68, 0.38 and 6.73, 4.532 cm for 1MMB (20Mo + 10Bi phr) and 2MMB (40Mo + 20Bi phr) at these energies, respectively. The mass attenuation coefficient of the novel composites 1MMB and 2MMB is found to be higher than the conventional materials like lead and barite for 356 keV gamma rays. In addition, the material is found to be light weight and flexible enabling to be molded in required forms, thus being a substitute for the material lead that is known to be heavy and toxic by nature.
60Co gamma radiation effects on NPN transistor at cryogenic temperature
Authors: Muddubasavanna Darshan , Anjum Arshiya , Nagaraj Pushpa , Patel Gnana Prakash A
Published: July 2024

The 60Co gamma radiation effects on the DC electrical characteristics of silicon NPN transistor were studied in the dose range of 100 krad to 6 Mrad at room temperature (300 K) and cryogenic temperature (77 K). The measurements were carried out at both 300 and 77 K temperature. The electrical characteristics such as Gummel characteristics, excess base current (ΔIB), current gain (hFE), transconductance (gm) and output characteristics were studied in situ as a function of total dose. The results show that there is a considerable degradation in the electrical parameters of the device irradiated both at 300 and 77 K as a consequence of increase in excess base current (ΔIB) because of the formation of generation and recombination centers in the emitter–base spacer oxide (SiO2). At cryogenic temperature irradiation, the degradation in electrical characteristics is less because of the physical phenomena such as carrier freezeout effect, decreased recombination rate, reduced charge yield, decreased electron mobility, etc.
Methodology for shielding design and evaluation for container scanners
Authors: Singh Thokchom D , Sha Rajib L , Singh Ranjankumar K , Sahani Ghanshyam , Tandon Pankaj , Sharma Pankaj Kumar Dash
Published: July 2024

There has been an increase in the use of high energy photon beam for container scanners in many countries for multi purposes such as detecting high atomic number materials which might be nuclear materials, drugs, high explosive materials and other contrabands etc. High energy photon beams generally 6 and 9 MV can be used for scanning such materials. However, it is important to ensure that radiation level beyond the container scanner installation is within the permissible dose limit specified by the national competent authority for the protection of public and radiation workers. In this paper, challenges in the biological shielding during the installation of high energy X-ray system for scanning vehicles containing suspected materials are discussed. The purpose of the present study is to develop a methodology for shielding design and evaluation for container scanner installations. The basic concept pertaining to shielding evaluation of radiotherapy installations provided in National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP)/International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports are referred, and appropriately used to calculate optimized shielding thicknesses requirements for container scanner installation. Workload is estimated based on number of containers scanned, machine ON time and dose rate at 1 m. The shielding evaluation includes use of beam stopper in the primary beam, scattering by heterogeneous metallic scrap materials or any other suspected materials contained in the vehicle and their impact on the thickness of shielding walls. A model lay out plan to be used for installation of container scanner is developed. A methodology for shielding evaluation for various protective walls and ceiling of this model is also discussed. The study provides basic requirement for designing a structural room for installing 9MV container scanner from radiological safety view point.
Assessment of naturally occurring radionuclides in surface soil and drinking water from western part of Yadgir district Karnataka, India
Authors: Mugalgaon Archanadevi R , Mugalgaon Rajesh S , Kerur Basavaraj R , Suresh Shesha
Published: July 2024

Radionuclide activity of the selected radionuclides 238U, 232Th and 40K was measured in surface soil samples collected from 40 villages of the western part of Yadgir district of Karnataka. A 4″ × 4″ NaI (Tl) detector based on a gamma spectrometer is used for the estimation of radionuclides. The major type of soil in this region is sandy and red. The 222Rn activity concentrations in drinking water were determined by the Emanometry method. The 222Rn activity in ground water is found to vary from 1.73 to 155.6 Bql−1. The total annual effective doses because of 222Rn inhalation and ingestion range from 4.72 to 424.84 μSv y−1 with an average value of 108.8 μSv y−1, respectively. Among the sampling stations, Shahapur and Shorapur soil samples show higher activity values than the Kembhavi and Hunasagi sampling stations soil samples.
Distribution of 210Po activity and soil texture in agricultural soil
Authors: Charles Meril , Thomas Ebin , Chandran Ruchila , Crasta Rita , Dawalekar Kamalakar Vaijinathrao , Yerol Narayana
Published: July 2024

The assessment of 210Po in agricultural soil matrices in different regions of Kerala and Karnataka was studied. The wet ash method was used to find the activity concentration of 210Po. The alpha activity was counted using a silver-activated zinc sulfide counter of 30% efficiency, and the activity was calculated. The average concentration of 210Po activity in soil samples ranged from 0.09 to 20.52 Bq kg−1, with an average value of 4.47 Bq kg−1. The soil texture was measured using the International Pipette method. Using the IBM Statistical Package of Social Science Software, the frequency distribution curve of 210Po is plotted and found to be lognormal. The data of 210Po are highly skewed, and the Kurtosis has a significant positive value. The 210Po activity concentrations are substantially within the World Health Organization’s recommended limits.
Monitoring of terrestrial gamma dose rate from the Kumaun Himalayan region of the Bageshwar district in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Patni Kiran , Singh Krishna P , Yadav Manjulata , Pande Ashutosh P
Published: July 2024

The present study is carried out in 42 sampling sites for the measurement of background gamma dose rate in six tehsils of the Bageshwar district that comes under the Kumaun Himalaya, Uttarakhand. The annual effective dose in the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons was estimated from the measured values of the Gamma dose rate. It is found that the minimum and maximum values ranged between 0.01–0.39 mSv per y (Arithmetic Mean = 0.19 mSv per y) in the pre-monsoon and 0.11–0.42 mSv per y (Arithmetic Mean = 0.20 mSv per y) in the post-monsoon season of the year. The finding of the present study shows that the annual effective dose equivalent is higher than the worldwide average value recommended by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation.
Assessment of natural radioactivity concentration in the soil samples from the Churchandpur and Ukhrul districts of Manipur, India
Authors: Devi Thiyam Priya , Singh Thokchom Dewan , Sharma Brahmacharimayum Arunkumar , Singh Sarangthem Nabadwip , Singhal Rakesh
Published: July 2024

The natural radioactivity concentration was studied for 40 soil samples of the Churchandpur and Ukhrul districts of Manipur, India, by using gamma-ray spectroscopy. The average radioactivity concentration of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in Churchandpur was found as 39.9 (range: 30–56), 72.1 (range: 57–93) and 564.1 (range:360–867) Bq kg−1 respectively, whereas, in Ukhrul, average radioactivity for the same was found as 30.3 (range: 16–54), 54.2 (range:24–89) and 637.1(range:103–901) Bq kg−1, respectively. The calculated radioactivity parameters were compared with the world average values. The measured radium equivalent activity (Raeq), absorbed dose rate ($\dot{\mathrm D}$), annual effective outdoor dose(Ė) and the external hazard index (Hex) were observed as 165 (range: 63.7–234.8) Bq kg−1, 77.6 (36.9–108.0) nGy h−1, 0.11 (0.05–0.13) mSv y−1 and 0.5 (0.1–0.6), respectively. This study aims to provide baseline data for radionuclide present in the Churchandpur and Ukhrul districts of Manipur.
Carbon-based brilliance: a novel approach to renewable energy in radiotherapy centers
Authors: Venkatraman Pitchaikannu , Aggarwal Lalit Mohan , Choudhary Sunil
Published: July 2024

The energy produced from other sources which does neither come from fossil fuels nor contribute in the production of any greenhouse effects that causes climate changes is called as ‘Alternative Energy’. Since our world’s primary energy sources such as coal, oil and natural gases are exploited to a greater extent, we are in an urge to switch to an alternative energy. Scattered radiation, a common byproduct in radiation therapy and diagnostic radiology, presents a unique opportunity in the realm of alternative energy. As a potential source of interference, scattered radiation can be repurposed to contribute to sustainable energy solutions. Addressing the issue of scattered radiation wastage and utilizing it for alternative energy, an activated carbon-based solar cell emerges as a solution. This solar cell, a conventional one in which cadmium Telluride is replaced by coconut shell based carbon material, has the potential in producing a significant amount of electrical energy by utilizing scattered radiation from radiotherapy and radiology machines. Furthermore, this activated carbon based-material undergoes thorough characterization into various teletherapy and radiology machines, and it can be seamlessly integrated into clinical practices.
Assessment of radiation dose due to 210Po in water and food samples of Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka, India
Authors: Lavanya Bevinathalapura S K , Namitha Shivachara N , Hidayath Mohamed , Chandrashekara Mallupura S
Published: July 2024

Groundwater is in direct contact with the soil and rocks that dissolve many compounds and minerals including uranium and its daughter products. 210Po is one of the decay products of 238U series that cause internal radiation dose in humans when consumed in the form of water and food, including sea food. Therefore, activities of 210Po have been studied in ground and surface water, and in food samples that are commonly used in Chamarajanagar region of Karnataka, India. The average 210Po concentration in bore well water samples and surface water samples are 3.21 and 1.85 mBq L−1, respectively. In raw rice and wheat, the average values of 210Po are 96 and 41 mBq kg−1, respectively. In millets and pulses, the average activity of 210Po is 157 and 79 mBq kg−1, respectively. Among food items, the highest activity of 1.3 kBq kg−1 is observed in marine crabs and the lowest activity of 2.6 mBq kg−1 is found in milk samples. The average ingestion dose due to 210Po in ground and surface water are 2.8 and 1.62 μSv y−1, respectively. The ingestion dose due to various food samples to the population is also calculated. Total ingestion dose due to 210Po to pure vegetarian population and general population are 38.09 and 590.80 μSv y−1, respectively. The concentration of 210Po in water samples and food samples of this region are in a comparable range with the world and Indian average values and lies well below the recommended guideline level.
Feasibility study of shielded diode detector for small field dosimetry
Authors: Bharathan Resmi K , Thasni Irfana , Musthafa Musthafa , Cheruliyil Ayyappan Suja , Ajaykumar Silpa , Jose Lisha
Published: July 2024

Improved imaging techniques and modern radiotherapy treatment delivery in the treatment field are reduced to the precise size of the tumor, which necessitates the need for small-field dosimetry. Dosimetry in small-field dosimetry is challenging because most of the available code of practice for dosimetry is based on the cavity theory concept. Some small-sized detectors show good spatial resolution and sensitivity. Of the available small detectors, the diamond detector's performance is remarkably good. Most of the centers for radiotherapy lack diamond detectors. In this situation, if a diode detector is available, we can use it for small-field dosimetry by applying the Daisy Chaining method correction methods. In this study, the diode detector's response is not over-responding because of the defective diode. So this diode cannot be used for further measurements, and we have to regularly check the performance of the diode before using it for measurements.
Computational analysis of electromagnetic field exposure in passengers near high- current contact wire environments
Authors: Yang Changqiong , Lu Mai
Published: July 2024

The electromagnetic environment of a railway station is composed of electrical, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields, which are generated by various sources such as traction current, voltage, pantograph-catenary arc, locomotive braking, wheel-rail rolling arc, and communication systems. However, there is public growing concern among the public about the potential negative human health effects of this electromagnetic environment. To analyze the distribution of electromagnetic fields in human tissues, electromagnetic simulation software is used to create a model that includes six track contact wires and four waiting passengers on three platforms. This model is used to analyze the magnetic field environment created by high currents in the contact wires of a multi-track high-speed railway station. By varying the loads on different contact wires, the distribution of electric field and magnetic flux density within human tissues of waiting passengers on different platforms is studied using this model. When the track is unoccupied, the calculation results show that the maximum values of the electric field and magnetic flux density of the passenger’s human body tissue at the blind way on the platform and 1 m of the blind way are 17.6 mV m−1 and 52.7 μT, respectively. These values increase by 9.28 mV m−1 and 16.4 μT compared to when the track is occupied. When more contact wires are loaded with currents, the electric field mode and magnetic flux density mode of human tissues increase at the same position on the platform. Specifically, when the contact wires of six tracks are loaded with current at the same time, the maximum values of the electric field mode and magnetic flux density mode of the waiting passengers’ human tissues at the blind way on different platforms are 29.6 mV m−1 and 88.1 μT, respectively. These maximum values are lower than the public electromagnetic exposure limits that are designated by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection guidelines. The research results demonstrate that the magnetic field environment generated by the current in the contact wires of a railway station with six tracks does not pose a health risk to human tissues of passengers waiting at the blind way and 1 m of the blind way on the platform. These findings can provide valuable data reference for the formulation of relevant standards for the design of electrified rail transit, as well as the suppression of electromagnetic interference and protection of human bioelectromagnetism.
Contextualizing the Resurgence of U.S. Housestaff Union Activity
Authors: Lin Grant L. , Priest Kelsey C. , Sossenheimer Philip H. , Pal Ria
Published: July 2024

There is a growing trend of resident and fellow physician unionization in the United States, with 14 new housestaff unions formed at private employers since 2022. This resurgence of housestaff union organizing parallels the last era of housestaff activism in the 1960s. Today’s housestaff organizing takes place within the context of long-standing challenges in medicine, including the burnout and systemic inequities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and an increase in national activism and labor organizing. Housestaff unions offer opportunities for residents and fellows to negotiate for improvements across multiple issues.

In this Commentary, the authors focus on common bargaining topics: poor working conditions, undercompensation, and inadequate representation in an increasingly corporatized health care landscape. The authors also discuss the role of collective bargaining for improving the housestaff experience and address common concerns about unionization. Finally, the authors explore the limited evidence of the impact of unions in health care settings and outline key considerations for future scholarship.

The current generation of housestaff started their medical careers with an awareness of systemic challenges to the profession and has responded through collective organizing. While the short- and long-term ramifications of housestaff organizing need further study, the authors express optimism that unionization will lead to improved working conditions and thus improved health care delivery.