L. Duggan

Variations in dose response with x-ray energy of LiF:Mg,Cu,P thermoluminescence dosimeters: implications for clinical dosimetry

In many medical procedures where accurate radiation dose measurements are needed, the variation of detector response with x-ray energy is of concern. The response of LiF:Mg,Cu,P TLDs to a range of x-ray energies was analysed in monoenergetic (synchrotron), diagnostic and therapy radiation beams with the aim of implementing this dosimeter into clinical practice where existing dosimetry techniques are limited due to lack of sensitivity or tissue equivalence (e.g. neonatal radiography, mammography and brachytherapy). LiF:Mg,Cu,P TLDs in different forms from two manufacturers (MCP-N: TLD Poland, GR200: SDDML China) were irradiated using x-ray beams covering 10 keV to 18 MVp. Dose readings were compared with an ionization chamber. The effect of different TLD types and annealing cycles on clinical utility was investigated. The measured energy response of LiF:Mg,Cu,P TLDs was fit to a simple model devised by Kron et al (1998 Phys. Med. Biol. 43 3235-59) to describe the variation of TLD response with x-ray energy. If TLDs are handled as recommended in the present paper, the energy response of LiF:Mg,Cu,P deviates by a maximum of 15% from unity and agrees with the model to within 5% or experimental uncertainty between 15 keV and 10 MeV. LiF:Mg,Cu,P TLDs of all forms have consistent and superior energy response compared to the standard material LiF:Mg,Ti and are therefore suitable for a wide range of applications in diagnostic radiology and radiotherapy.

A Comparison of Medical Physics Training and Education Programs - Canada and Australia

An overview and comparison of medical physics clinical training, academic education, and national certification/accreditation of individual professionals in Canada and Australia is presented. Topics discussed include program organization, funding, fees, administration, time requirements, content, program accreditation, and levels of certification/accreditation of individual Medical Physicists. Differences in the training, education, and certification/accreditation approaches between the two countries are highlighted. The possibility of mutual recognition of certified/accredited Medical Physicists is examined.

Miniature LiF:Mg,Cu,P TLDs to study the effect of applicator material in 192-Ir brachytherapy.

Dose calculations in brachytherapy planning typically don’t take into account inhomogeneities and the material of applicators. We evaluated the justification of the latter by investigating the dose delivered in 192-Ir interstitial implants employing plastic catheters and steel needles using miniature LiF: Mg, Cu, P thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLDs) which fit in the applicators. Within the uncertainty of the measurement (+/−5%) no difference could be found in the dose distribution from 192Ir in steel needles or plastic catheters. Computerized treatment planning (Philips/ADAC Pinnacle) was in good agreement with the measured data.

Boyce Worthley Young Achiever Award Winner 2005

Place of Birth: Newcastle, 1972 Nationality: Australian Academic Record: BSc (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) [1993], BSc Class 1 Honours (Physics) [1994], PhD (Physics) [2002] Professional Status: ACPSEM Senior accredited Radiotherapy Medical Physicist, University Lecturer, NSW Clinical Placement Coordinator NSW Health (currently developing and promoting TEAP through out NSW), IAEA consultant Professional Membership: Full membership of the Australian College of Physical Scientist and Engineers in Medicine (MACPSEM), Junior Full Membership of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) Interests and Hobbies: Travel, Movies, Photography, Stockmarket, Music (Piano)