Evaluation of uncertainties in 90Sr-body-burdens obtained by whole-body count: application of Bayes' rule to derive detection limits by analysis of a posteriori data

Appl Radiat Isot. 2002 Oct;57(4):525-35. doi: 10.1016/s0969-8043(02)00129-x.

Abstract

A whole body counter (WBC) designed to measure bremsstrahlung from 90Y, the short-lived daughter of 90Sr, has been used since 1974 to measure 90Sr-body burdens in residents along the Techa River, which was contaminated by releases from the Mayak Production Association. Bayes' rule has been applied to the a posteriori WBC data in order to derive the uncertainties associated with the data: The lower limit of reliable detection is 2.0 kBq and the uncertainty of routine measurements is 1.6 kBq.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Bayes Theorem
  • Body Burden*
  • Humans
  • Radioactive Hazard Release
  • Radiobiology
  • Radiometry / instrumentation
  • Radiometry / methods*
  • Russia
  • Strontium Radioisotopes / adverse effects
  • Strontium Radioisotopes / analysis*

Substances

  • Strontium Radioisotopes