Prompt-gamma neutron activation analysis system design: Effects of D-T versus D-D neutron generator source selection |
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Authors: | R J Shypailo K J Ellis |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA |
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Abstract: | Prompt-gamma neutron activation (PGNA) analysis is used for the non-invasive measurement of human body composition. Advancements
in portable, compact neutron generator design have made those devices attractive as neutron sources. Two distinct generators
are available: D-D with 2.5 MeV and D-T with 14.2 MeV neutrons. To compare the performance of these two units in our present
PGNA system, we performed Monte Carlo simulations (MCNP-5; Los Alamos National Laboratory) evaluating the nitrogen reactions
produced in tissue-equivalent phantoms and the effects of background interference on the gamma-detectors. Monte Carlo response
curves showed increased gamma production per unit dose when using the D-D generator, suggesting that it is the more suitable
choice for smaller sized subjects. The increased penetration by higher energy neutrons produced by the D-T generator supports
its utility when examining larger, especially obese, subjects. A clinical PGNA analysis design incorporating both neutron
generator options may be the best choice for a system required to measure a wide range of subject phenotypes. |
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