System design for in vivo neutron activation analysis measurements of manganese in the human brain: based on Monte Carlo modeling

Manganese is an essential nutrient required by the human body, but converse ly, over exposure to the element may cause central nervous system damage. T he technique of in vivo neutron activation analysis, using the McMaster KN- accelerator, is being investigated as a possible method of noninvasively de termining manganese concentrations within the human body. Since the brain i s the primary target of damage from exposure it would be the ideal site for measurements. Thus, Monte Carlo simulations have been undertaken to define the optimum experimental parameters for such a measurement, examining the use of possible moderator, reflector and collimator materials. (C) 2000 Els evier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.