Investigation of K₀ NAA at MURR and investigation of the toenail as a biomonitor for Mg, Zn, Cu, Se and Hg

Abstract

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] The K₀ method of neutron activation analysis (INAA) requires a stable core and neutron flux parameterization. The stability of the core at MURR was evaluated by measuring the parameters [alpha] and [function]. The results indicate that [alpha] and [function] are sufficiently stable between fuel cycles at MURR for K₀ (INAA). However, unexpected values of [alpha] and [function] will decrease the accuracy of K₀ (INAA). The toenail as a biomonitor of a dietary supplement containing Mg, Zn, and Cu was evaluated. The toenail was not sensitive to supplementation of these elements. The nail response to concurrent dietary intake of methyl mercury (MEHG) and Se in long Evans rats was evaluated. The Se concentration in the nail was correlated with dietary Se in every (MEHG) exposure group and (MEHG) was correlated with nail Hg with dietary (MEHG) in every Se exposure group. Exposure to high levels of (MEHG) did affect the measured nail Se concentration in one experimental group relative to control.