scholarly journals Radiologists’ Knowledge and Attitudes towards CT Radiation Dose and Exposure in Saudi Arabia—A Survey Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (3) ◽  
pp. 27 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hussain M Almohiy ◽  
Khalid Hussein ◽  
Mohammed Alqahtani ◽  
Elhussaien Elshiekh ◽  
Omer Loaz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Radiation Risk ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Specific Information ◽  
Highly Sensitive ◽  
Key Factor ◽  
Ct Radiation ◽  
Training Courses ◽  
Multiple Choice Questionnaire

Computed tomography (CT) is a key imaging technique in diagnostic radiology, providing highly sensitive and specific information. While its use has increased dramatically in recent years, the quantity and associated risks of radiation from CT scans present major challenges, particularly in paediatrics. The fundamental principles of radiation protection require that radiation quantities be as low as reasonably achievable and CT use must be justified, particularly for paediatric patients. CT radiation knowledge is a key factor in optimising and minimising radiation risk. The objective of this study was to analyse knowledge level, expertise, and competency regarding CT radiation dose and its hazards in paediatrics among radiologists in Saudi Arabian hospitals. A self-reported, multiple-choice questionnaire assessed the attitudes and opinions of radiologists involved in imaging studies using ionising radiation. Among the total respondents, 65% ± 13.5% had a good comprehension of the dangers of carcinogenicity to the patient resulting from CT scans, with 80% presuming that cancer risks were elevated. However, only 48.5%, 56.5%, and 65% of the respondents were aware of specific radiation risks in head, chest, and abdominal paediatric examinations, respectively. Regular, frequent, and specific training courses are suggested to improve the fundamental knowledge of CT radiation among radiologists and other physicians.

Development of a computational tool for estimating computed tomography dose parameters

2020 ◽  
Vol 28 (6) ◽  
pp. 1025-1035
Author(s):  
Hussain M. Almohiy ◽  
Khalid I. Hussein ◽  
Mohammed S. Alqahtani ◽  
Mohammad Rawashdeh ◽  
Elhussaien Elshiekh ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Radiation Risk ◽  
Diagnostic Procedures ◽  
Ct Scanner ◽  
Computational Tool ◽  
Computed Tomographic ◽  
Ct Dose ◽  
Ct Radiation ◽  
Ct Head ◽  
Periodic Inspections

BACKGROUND: Computed Tomographic (CT) imaging procedures have been reported as the main source of radiation in diagnostic procedures compared to other modalities. To provide the optimal quality of CT images at the minimum radiation risk to the patient, periodic inspections and calibration tests for CT equipment are required. These tests involve a series of measurements that are time consuming and may require specific skills and highly-trained personnel. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to develop a new computational tool to estimate the dose of CT radiation outputs and assist in the calibration of CT scanners. It may also provide an educational resource by which radiological practitioners can learn the influence of technique factors on both patient radiation dose and the produced image quality. METHODS: The computational tool was developed using MATLAB in order to estimate the CT radiation dose parameters for different technique factors. The CT radiation dose parameters were estimated from the calibrated energy spectrum of the x-ray tube for a CT scanner. RESULTS: The estimated dose parameters and the measured values utilising an Adult CT Head Dose Phantom showed linear correlations for different tube voltages (80 kVp, 100 kVp, 120 kVp, and 140 kVp), with R2 nearly equal to 1 (0.99). The maximum differences between the estimated and measured CTDIvol were under 5 %. For 80 kVp and low tube currents (50 mA, 100 mA), the maximum differences were under 10%. CONCLUSIONS: The prototyped computational model provides a tool for the simulation of a machine-specific spectrum and CT dose parameters using a single dose measurement.

scholarly journals Validation of CARE kV automated tube voltage selection for PET-CT: PET quantification and CT radiation dose reduction in phantoms

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Natalie A. Bebbington ◽  
Troels Jørgensen ◽  
Erik Dupont ◽  
Mille A. Micheelsen
Keyword(s):  
Image Quality ◽  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Activity Concentration ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Reference Image ◽  
Tube Voltage ◽  
Pet Quantification ◽  
Measured Activity ◽  
Ct Radiation ◽  
The Individual

Abstract Background Applied tube voltage (kilovolts, kV) and tube current (milliampere seconds, mAs) affect CT radiation dose and image quality and should be optimised for the individual patient. CARE kV determines the kV and mAs providing the lowest dose to the patient, whilst maintaining user-defined reference image quality. Given that kV changes affect CT values which are used to obtain attenuation maps, the aim was to evaluate the effect of kV changes on PET quantification and CT radiation dose using phantoms. Method Four phantoms (‘Lungman’, ‘Lungman plus fat’, ‘Esser’ and ‘NEMA image quality’ (NEMA IQ)) containing F-18 sources underwent 1 PET and 5 CT scans, with CARE kV on (automatic kV selection and mAs modulation) and in semi mode with specified tube voltages of 140, 120, 100 and 80 kV (mAs modulation only). A CARE kV image quality reference of 120 kV/50 mAs was used. Impact on PET quantification was determined by comparing measured activity concentrations for PET reconstructions from different CT scans with the reconstruction using the 120 kV reference, and dose (DLP, CTDIvol) differences calculated by comparing doses from all kV settings with the 120 kV reference. Results CARE kV-determined optimal tube voltage and CARE kV ‘on’ dose (DLP) savings compared with the 120 kV reference were: Lungman, 100 kV, 2.0%; Lungman plus fat, 120 kV, 0%; Esser, 100 kV, 9.3%; NEMA IQ, 100 kV, 3.4%. Using tube voltages in CARE kV ‘semi’ mode which were not advised by CARE kV ‘on’ resulted in dose increases ≤ 65% compared with the 120 kV reference (greatest difference Lungman plus fat, 80 kV). Clinically insignificant differences in PET activity quantification of up to 0.7% (Lungman, 100 kV, mean measured activity concentration) were observed when using the optimal tube voltage advised by CARE kV. Differences in PET quantification of up to 4.0% (Lungman, 140 kV, maximum measured activity concentration) were found over the full selection of tube voltages in semi mode, with the greatest differences seen at the most suboptimal kV for each phantom. However, most differences were within 1%. Conclusions CARE kV on can provide CT radiation dose savings without concern over changes in PET quantification.

scholarly journals The psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults with autism: a survey study across three countries

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Danna Oomen ◽  
Annabel D. Nijhof ◽  
Jan R. Wiersema
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Social Life ◽  
Social Stress ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Specific Information ◽  
Long Term Effects ◽  
Adults With Autism ◽  
Psychological Burden ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Background Previous studies have reported a negative psychological and mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This impact is likely to be stronger for people with autism as they are at heightened risk of mental health problems and because the pandemic directly affects social functioning and everyday routines. We therefore examined COVID-19 pandemic-related changes in mental health, the impact of the pandemic on their social life and routines, satisfaction with pandemic-related information and tips, and participants’ wishes for guidance. Methods We used a mixed-method approach, collecting quantitative and qualitative survey data from adults with and without autism across three European countries: Belgium, the Netherlands, and the UK (N = 1044). Results We found an increase in depression and anxiety symptoms in response to the pandemic for both the non-autism and the autism group, which was greater for adults with autism. Furthermore, adults with autism showed a greater increase in worries about their pets, work, getting medication and food, and their own safety/security. They felt more relieved from social stress, yet experienced the loss of social contact as difficult. Adults with autism also felt more stressed about the loss of routines. Pleasant changes noted by adults with autism were the increase in solidarity and reduced sensory and social overload. Adults with autism frequently reported problems with cancellation of guidance due to the pandemic and expressed their wish for (more) autism-specific information and advice. Limitations Our sample is likely to reflect some degree of selection bias, and longitudinal studies are needed to determine long-term effects. Conclusions Results highlight the psychological burden of the pandemic on adults with autism and shed light on how to support them during this COVID-19 pandemic, which is especially important now that the pandemic is likely to have a prolonged course. There is a need for accessible, affordable (continued) support from health services. Guidance may focus on the maintenance of a social network, and adjusting routines to the rapid ongoing changes. Finally, we may learn from the COVID-19 pandemic-related changes experienced as pleasant by adults with autism to build a more autism-friendly society post-pandemic.

scholarly journals Science Teachers’ Perceptions and Self-Efficacy Beliefs Related to Integrated Science Education

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 272
Author(s):  
Outi Haatainen ◽  
Jaakko Turkka ◽  
Maija Aksela
Keyword(s):  
Science Education ◽  
Science Teachers ◽  
Self Efficacy ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Teaching Method ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Integrated Education ◽  
Integrated Science ◽  
Teachers Perceptions ◽  
Key Factor

To understand how integrated science education (ISE) can be transferred into successful classroom practices, it is important to understand teachers’ perceptions and self-efficacy. The focus of this study is twofold: (1) to understand how teachers perceive ISE and (2) to assess if science teachers’ perceptions of and experiences with integrated education correlate with their views on self-efficacy in relation to ISE. Ninety-five Finnish science teachers participated in an online survey study. A mixed method approach via exploratory factor analysis and data-driven content analysis was used. Self-efficacy emerged as a key factor explaining teachers’ perceptions of and their lack of confidence in implementing ISE as well as their need for support. In addition, teachers regarded ISE as a relevant teaching method, but challenging to implement, and teachers primarily applied integrated approaches irregularly and seldom. Furthermore, teachers’ experiences with integrated activities and collaboration correlated with their views on integrated education and self-efficacy. These findings indicate teachers need support to better understand and implement ISE.

Pediatric CT Radiation Dose: How Low Can You Go?

2009 ◽  
Vol 192 (5) ◽  
pp. 1292-1303 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mervyn D. Cohen
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Pediatric Ct ◽  
Ct Radiation

scholarly journals Radiation Awareness for Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair in the Hybrid Operating Room: An Instant Operator Risk Chart for Daily Practice

2021 ◽  
pp. 152660282110074
Author(s):  
Quirina M. B. de Ruiter ◽  
Frans L. Moll ◽  
Constantijn E. V. B. Hazenberg ◽  
Joost A. van Herwaarden
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Dose Rate ◽  
Effect Size ◽  
Radiation Risk ◽  
Dose Limit ◽  
Access Site ◽  
Femoral Access ◽  
Dose Rates ◽  
Rate Prediction ◽  
Operator Dose

Introduction: While the operator radiation dose rates are correlated to patient radiation dose rates, discrepancies may exist in the effect size of each individual radiation dose predictors. An operator dose rate prediction model was developed, compared with the patient dose rate prediction model, and converted to an instant operator risk chart. Materials and Methods: The radiation dose rates (DRoperator for the operator and DRpatient for the patient) from 12,865 abdomen X-ray acquisitions were selected from 50 unique patients undergoing standard or complex endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) in the hybrid operating room with a fixed C-arm. The radiation dose rates were analyzed using a log-linear multivariable mixed model (with the patient as the random effect) and incorporated varying (patient and C-arm) radiation dose predictors combined with the vascular access site. The operator dose rate models were used to predict the expected radiation exposure duration until an operator may be at risk to reach the 20 mSv year dose limit. The dose rate prediction models were translated into an instant operator radiation risk chart. Results: In the multivariate patient and operator fluoroscopy dose rate models, lower DRoperator than DRpatient effect size was found for radiation protocol (2.06 for patient vs 1.4 for operator changing from low to medium protocol) and C-arm angulation. Comparable effect sizes for both DRoperator and DRpatient were found for body mass index (1.25 for patient and 1.27 for the operator) and irradiated field. A higher effect size for the DRoperator than DRpatient was found for C-arm rotation (1.24 for the patient vs 1.69 for the operator) and exchanging from femoral access site to brachial access (1.05 for patient vs 2.5 for the operator). Operators may reach their yearly 20 mSv year dose limit after 941 minutes from the femoral access vs 358 minutes of digital subtraction angiography radiation from the brachial access. Conclusion: The operator dose rates were correlated to patient dose rate; however, C-arm angulation and changing from femoral to brachial vascular access site may disproportionally increase the operator radiation risk compared with the patient radiation risk. An instant risk chart may improve operator dose awareness during EVAR.

Metallic Prosthesis: Technique to Avoid Increase in CT Radiation Dose with Automatic Tube Current Modulation in a Phantom and Patients

Radiology ◽  
2005 ◽  
Vol 236 (2) ◽  
pp. 671-675 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tejas Dalal ◽  
Mannudeep K. Kalra ◽  
Stefania M. R. Rizzo ◽  
Bernhard Schmidt ◽  
Christoph Suess ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Tube Current Modulation ◽  
Current Modulation ◽  
Metallic Prosthesis ◽  
Automatic Tube Current Modulation ◽  
Tube Current ◽  
Ct Radiation

Diagnostic CT Scans: Assessment of Patient, Physician, and Radiologist Awareness of Radiation Dose and Possible Risks

Radiology ◽  
2004 ◽  
Vol 231 (2) ◽  
pp. 393-398 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christoph I. Lee ◽  
Andrew H. Haims ◽  
Edward P. Monico ◽  
James A. Brink ◽  
Howard P. Forman
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Diagnostic Ct

Technologies of personnel training and development in the organization

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marina Polevaya ◽  
Igor' Belogrud ◽  
Irina Ivanova ◽  
Elena Kamneva ◽  
Valentina Maslova ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Personnel Management ◽  
Professional Training ◽  
Training And Development ◽  
Personnel Training ◽  
High Quality ◽  
Modern Economy ◽  
Key Factor ◽  
Training Courses ◽  
Management Students ◽  
Psychological Features

In the modern economy, high-quality personnel is a key factor for the success of an organization. The success of the organization directly depends on the degree of qualification of the staff. The textbook presents technologies, methods and types of personnel training and development; legal and organizational aspects of professional training; socio-psychological features of personnel training and development; the basics of forming and managing the personnel reserve in the organization, as well as methods for evaluating the effectiveness of personnel training and development in the organization. It is intended for students studying in the direction of training "Personnel Management", students of institutes and advanced training courses, employees of personnel management services, managers of enterprises and organizations.

Radiation exposure during the treatment of spinal deformities

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-7
Author(s):  
Jwalant S. Mehta ◽  
Kirsten Hodgson ◽  
Lu Yiping ◽  
James Swee Beng Kho ◽  
Ravindra Thimmaiah ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Dose ◽  
Ionizing Radiation ◽  
Effective Dose ◽  
Spinal Deformity ◽  
Background Radiation ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Intraoperative Fluoroscopy ◽  
The Difference ◽  
Risk Of Cancer ◽  
Surgical Group

Aims To benchmark the radiation dose to patients during the course of treatment for a spinal deformity. Methods Our radiation dose database identified 25,745 exposures of 6,017 children (under 18 years of age) and adults treated for a spinal deformity between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2016. Patients were divided into surgical (974 patients) and non-surgical (5,043 patients) cohorts. We documented the number and doses of ionizing radiation imaging events (radiographs, CT scans, or intraoperative fluoroscopy) for each patient. All the doses for plain radiographs, CT scans, and intraoperative fluoroscopy were combined into a single effective dose by a medical physicist (milliSivert (mSv)). Results There were more ionizing radiation-based imaging events and higher radiation dose exposures in the surgical group than in the non-surgical group (p < 0.001). The difference in effective dose for children between the surgical and non-surgical groups was statistically significant, the surgical group being significantly higher (p < 0.001). This led to a higher estimated risk of cancer induction for the surgical group (1:222 surgical vs 1:1,418 non-surgical). However, the dose difference for adults was not statistically different between the surgical and non-surgical groups. In all cases the effective dose received by all cohorts was significantly higher than that from exposure to natural background radiation. Conclusion The treatment of spinal deformity is radiation-heavy. The dose exposure is several times higher when surgical treatment is undertaken. Clinicians should be aware of this and review their practices in order to reduce the radiation dose where possible.

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