Regional Conference on Medical Physics, Dhaka 18 February, 2011

01. BRAIN ATROPHY OF AN ALZHEIMER DISEASE

AFFECTED PATIENT
Md. Shafiul Islam, Saadia Binte Alam, Md. Afzalur Rab, Ishtiak Hussain, Md. Enamul Hoque
Chowdhury, Shahida Rafique
Department of Applied Physics & Electronics, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
shafiul.ece@gmail.com
Abstract: A growing body of evidence suggests that a preclinical phase of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)
exists several years or more prior to the overt manifestation of clinical symptoms and is characterized by
subtle neuropsychological and brain changes. Identification of individuals prior to the development of
significant clinical symptoms is imperative in order to have the greatest treatment impact by maintaining
cognitive abilities and preserving quality of life. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) offers
considerable promise as a non-invasive tool for detecting morphological brain changes in Alzheimer
disease affected patients. In fact, evidence to date indicates that functional brain decline precedes
structural decline in preclinical samples. Therefore, fMRI may offer the unique ability to capture the
dynamic state of change in the degenerating brain. This analysis examines morphological change in brain
structure in those at risk for AD as well as in early AD. fMRI data analysis and findings is done on at-risk
groups by collecting data from fMRI data centre which is gathered according to the virtue of genetic
susceptibility or mild cognitive decline followed by an appraisal of the methodological issues concerning
the diagnostic usefulness of fMRI in early AD. Alzheimer disease affected subjects data from fMRI data
centre were analyzed in this paper. The analysis result shows that the cortex, hippocampus, and ventricle
area of the Alzheimer diseased patient have shrunk dramatically than the normal subject and other
changes of brain are distinguishable. A discussion of data analyzing procedure has been given that will
improve the ability to reliably detect early brain changes and will help for early identification of
Alzheimer (AD) disease and to cure the disease.

02. ANALYSES ON fMRI DATA EXHIBITING ACTIVE BRAIN REGION

DUE TO AUDIO-VISUAL EFFECT
Md. Nahid Hossain, Md. Shafiul Islam, Md. Enamul Hoque Chowdhury
Dept of Applied Physics & Electronics, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
nahidapece@gmail.com
Abstract: Human generate both visual and auditory phonetic signals by talking and movements of lips.
When someone is talking face to face, perceiver typically integrates phonetic distinctiveness of both the
visual and auditory stimuli (audiovisual integration).The prominent function of the brain’s audio-visual
response is to enable the evaluation of novel, environmental events in order to prepare for potential
action. This analyses reveal neuroanatomical and neuroimaging studies pertaining to audio-visual effect
and particular emphasis will be given to neuroimaging studies using functional magnetic resonance
imaging(fMRI). Analyses of haemodynamic responses and audio-visual effects have been done on
neuroimaging data. These approaches provide complete information as they evaluate different features of
audio-visual effect. fMRI data analysis has been accomplished by using a validated set of neuroimaging
tools from the FMRIB Software Library (Version 4.1.5, FSL) used by Department of Clinical Neurology,
University of Oxford. Neuroimaging studies suggest that auditory and visual shows quite similar patterns
of brain activation. We observed that regions of the FEFs, PPC, and SMA were significantly modulated
by spatial cues. Additionally, areas of the auditory cortex are also activated for this contrast, possibly
indicating preparatory biasing in sensory cortices. We found quite similar regions involved in visuospatial
orienting.

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03. LIFE-SAVING APPLICATIONS OF A NANO-POWER IC

A. Begum1, R. Sultana1, S Binzaid2
1
Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering
University of Information Technology and Sciences, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2
SERES-BD, Bangladesh
mukta2121@yahoo.com1, shuza00@yahoo.com2
Abstract: Public health and safety always raise national economic concerns in developing countries like
Bangladesh when catastrophic disasters causing unavoidable medical emergencies become a “lost-
control”. Careful review can minimize some of the major issues and also by developing better
technologies can keep the causing factors under control at pre- and post-disaster stages. Nano-power
electronics is an area of emerging semiconductor VLSI technology where scaled down CMOS circuits are
primarily used in this project. Scalable design techniques of MOSIS are used for designing a fabricable
CMOS integrated chip (IC). A sense amplifier is redesigned to improve specific functions and also lower
the power to nano-watts level i.e. 7.15E-03watts to 1.31E-09watts. Floor plan of all components and their
pin-assignments of the CAD layout of the test chip are described. PSPICE simulation for verifying
operations and power consumption of components in the chip is presented in this paper. Applications of
this IC have been explored and it is found to be a life-saving design for ferries, launches, boats etc. in
Bangladesh waterways. Application of three types of sensors and their proper placements is identified for
this IC such that they can sense the catastrophic situations ahead of time. This IC can also accurately
determine the increasing levels of leaking water in the hull and degradation of floating conditions to
buoyancy. This low power electronics can be operated by sustainable energy systems when the generator
and the primary power source are obvious to fail while sinking. A sequence of preventive functions are
generated by the IC that include warnings to captain if a possibility of structural damage, activate the
alarm system prior to leaving dock if serious defects detected such as overloading conditions, activate the
inflation of floating devices and assure passengers’ away from sinking vehicle, continue power to medical
equipments and air supply to patients by auto-control electronic system. Detailed description of such
system, sensor logical functions, applicable analysis of physics and thus forming its electronic operational
plans are presented in this paper.

04. ON CHIP SI-MICRORING RESONATOR FOR BIO-MEDICAL

APPLICATIONS AT µm WAVELENGTH

Rajib Ahmed, Rifath Ahmed1, Md. Afzalur Rab

Dept of Applied Physics, Electronics & Communication Engg., University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
1
Dept. of Electronics & Telecommunication Engg., Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology,
Rajshahi, Bangladesh
rajib.ahmed.apece@gmail.com, rifat.epe07@gmail.com, riazshhall@yahoo.com
Abstract: Nowadays, Optical resonator has generated wide interests in the detection and sensing field.
This is possible only for a small change on the refractive index can be detected from the shift of
resonance wavelength and the splitting of the resonance modes. The synergy between microresonator and
nanoparticle can be used for various applications, such as biological imaging, fluorescent markers for
biological processes, contrast agents in bio molecule sensing, cancer therapies and photothermal tumor
ablation etc. We experimentally demonstrate a high-Q silicon microring resonator operating at
wavelength of 1.55µm with/without Au nanoparticles. We consider the micro ring resonator (4µm in
diameter) and the ring waveguide (width is 200nm) as a single mode waveguide. SiO2 as the bottom

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cladding and air as the top cladding. The two bus waveguides are evanescently coupled to the micro ring
resonator, with the coupling gap 100nm and the thickness of the ring resonator and bus waveguide is
250nm. We used 2D Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method & Perfect Matched Layer (PML) as
absorbing boundary condition. The Au nanoparticle was placed at the outside edge of the micro ring
resonator and found resonance wavelength shift and broadening of the splitting bandwidth with the
increase number & size of Au nanoparticles but irrespective of position up to certain limit – when the
interaction between metallic nanoparticles and micro ring resonator is becoming so strong that they
completely degrade the resonance – the Q is strongly degraded and the intensity at output port is
approaching zero. This unique result by Au nanoparticles is used extensively for sensing and nano
medicine field.

05. DESIGN AND SIMULATION OF CLOSED LOOP CONTROLLERS

FOR CANCER CHEMOTHERAPY
Md. Belayat Hossain, Md. Omar Faruk and Md. Shofiul Alam
Dept. of Applied Physics, Electronics & Communication Engg., University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
belayat.du@gmail.com
Abstract: In cancer chemotherapy drug scheduling, effective feedback control must be ensured in order
to maintain a predefined level of drug concentration in tumor sites. This controlling can be achieved by
fuzzy controller, neural network as well as conventional controllers. Most of these are complex in design.
In this paper, simple closed loop Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) and a variant of it, namely
Integral-Proportional-Derivative (I-PD) controllers based on Martin’s model for drug concentration have
been designed to prepare doses and control the drug to be infused to the patient’s body. Finally,
enhancement in the performance of the cancer drug treatment with minimum toxic side effects is achieved
through the proposed controllers.

06. ARTIFICIAL MUSCULOSKELETAL DESIGN FOR AN EMG

CONTROLLED PROSTHETIC HAND USING FLEXIBLE WIRE.
Jawshan Ara, K Siddique-e Rabbani
Department of Biomedical Physics and Technology, University of Dhaka.
jawshan@gmail.com, rabbani@univdhaka.edu
Abstract: The design of this prosthesis is for a functional replacement of a natural hand, for subjects with
a hand severed from the wrist. A three dimensional model of a mechanical structure of the prosthetic hand
has been designed using AutoCAD, a computer aided design software. For the primary model, two basic
function of hand, grasping and holding light objects was to be performed by contraction and tension of
flexible wires, which acts in a way similar to that of tendons in the fingers. These wires will perform the
flexion (grip closing) and extension (grip loosening) actions through the two directions of rotation of a dc
motor. The power applied to the motor will be controlled by electrical signals picked up from the muscles
(Electromyograph – EMG) of the existing portion of upper limb. The EMG signals will be analysed to
obtain mainly the control signals for the direction of rotation of the motor. However, the possibility to use
the strength of the EMG signals will also be explored. This artificial musculoskeletal model has been
designed using a light material like aluminium in mind. However, due to limitations in fabricating
facilities, prototypes are being made using brass. The prosthetic hand can be made available at a low cost
without sacrificing its quality of action, and will contribute greatly to the sufferings of a large number of
people who have lost their hands.

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07. DESIGN OF AN EMG DRIVEN MICROCONTROLLER BASED

PROSTHETIC LEG
Md. Rokibul Islam1, A N M. Mushfiqul Haque1, S N Amin1, K Siddique-e Rabbani2
1
Dept of Electrical and Electronic Engg, Islamic University of Technology, Gazipur, Bangladesh
2
Dept of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
rokib.iut@gmail.com, rabbani@univdhaka.edu
Abstract: Over the past few years prosthetic legs have become much improved and complex. However
their costs are very high and are not within the reach of most people in the Third World. Low-cost fixed
prostheses made of wood or plastics are available in some Third world countries, but these offer very
basic movement with unnatural gait; climbing stairs gets quite difficult. The prosthesis being worked
upon in the present work are for amputees with legs removed above the knee, and would offer a limited
rotational movement of the knee joint under voluntary control of the wearer, driven by the EMG signals
extracted from thigh muscles. The aim is to make it at a low cost, may be at a cost slightly higher than the
passive ones, but allowing a better gait in walking, and in climbing stairs. An initial work was done in this
direction by our extended group earlier; the present work gives further improvements. This involves
redesigning of the motor and the gear system and that of the electronic circuitry for processing the EMG
signals extracted from thigh muscles, interfacing the output to the microcontroller, rotating the motor in
two directions thereby accomplishing the movement of the knee joint. The motor, geared down, is
mounted horizontally and a pulley system drives the artificial knee joint. A wooden prototype was used to
study the motion of the mechanical structure and the action of the motor. Further challenge is to
incorporate lighter and stronger material like carbon fibre and testing the prosthesis with an amputee
before making it commercially available.

08. DEVELOPMENT OF A PEDOGRAPH FOR DYNAMIC FOOT

PRESSURE MEASUREMENT
K Siddique-e Rabbani1,2, SM Zahid Ishraque2, M Shahedul Islam2 and Rhaad Muasir Rabbani2
1
Department of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2
Bangladesh Institute for Biomedical Engineering & Appropriate Technology (BIBEAT)
rabbani@univdhaka.edu
Abstract: Dynamic foot pressure measurement is necessary particularly for diabetic patients, who lack
sensation in the feet, to prevent ulcers, eventually leading to gangrene and amputation. The present work
reports a low cost optical sensing system for the above, suitable for the Third World. It uses a horizontally
placed transparent Acrylic plate with a webcam placed below facing upwards. A white paper, backed by a
black adhesive plastic sheet, covered the whole plate on the top. Light from a tubular fluorescent lamp
entered the acrylic plate from a side and traversed the thickness through total internal reflection. At points
of pressure applied from the top, the air between the paper and the acrylic plate got displaced and caused
breakdown of total internal reflection. The scattered light rays from the white sheet were recorded by the
webcam. Computer software on Java platform was developed to grab and analyse video data to display
dynamic pressure distribution in artificial colour contours. Approximate pressure calibration was obtained
using static and dynamic values obtained from subjects with normal and abnormal foot pressures. Time
graphs of pressure at user chosen points were also provided. The developed system worked with
satisfaction and is being used for clinical assessment regularly in a neighbouring country.

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09. CALIBRATION OF A LOCALLY DEVISED LOW COST DYNAMIC

FOOT PRESSURE SYSTEM
M Ahsan Habib1, M Shahedul Islam2 and K Siddique-e Rabbani1,2
1
Department of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2
Bangladesh Institute for Biomedical Engineering & Appropriate Technology (BIBEAT)
rabbani@univdhaka.edu

Abstract: A low cost dynamic foot pressure measurement system was developed earlier by our extended
group which gives the approximate pressure variation at different points of the foot while walking, which
is working satisfactorily in a clinical setting. However, from a scientific point of view, a more accurate
and rigorous calibration is desired. The device uses a horizontally placed transparent acrylic plate covered
by a white paper, and backed by a black adhesive plastic sheet on the top. Light from a tubular fluorescent
lamp entered the acrylic plate from a side and traverses the thickness through total internal reflection. At
points of pressure applied from the top, the air between the paper and the acrylic plate got displaced and
caused breakdown of total internal reflection. The scattered light rays from the white sheet were recorded
by the webcam, and the intensity of light is presumed to represent pressure applied at that point.
It has been suggested in earlier work using similar devices that static and dynamic pressure calibrations
are different. In the present work a four wheel wooden cart was devised with weights placed on top,
which could be pulled along the sensitive surface at different speed. By analysing the pressures created by
the wheels for these different speeds, an understanding was achieved regarding the variation of pressure
with the time of contact. It was also confirmed that the intensity of light in a pixel was related to the
pressure value directly.
Finally the average pressure created by a walking person was analysed critically. Two humps at the
beginning and at the end of the step were observed, which suggests that because of the nature of walking
there will be such increases at these phases of the footstep. This agrees with foot pressure analysis done
theoretically earlier by other groups. Therefore, when complete this work will increase the capability of
the foot pressure measuring system developed at relatively low cost.

10. DEVELOPMENT OF A DUAL FREQUENCY SYSTEM OF FOCUSED

IMPEDANCE METHOD (FIM) FOR MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS
Md Abdul Kadir, K Siddique-e Rabbani
Dept of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
kadir_221@yahoo.com, rabbani@univdhaka.edu

Abstract: Focused Impedance Method (FIM) developed recently by our group at Dhaka University
provides an opportunity for localized impedance measurement down to reasonable depths using surface
electrodes, and application of FIM may give more specific results in the detection and diagnosis of
diseases and disorders like pneumonia, certain cancer, etc., if measurements are carried out at several, or
at least at two different frequencies. FIM essentially measures the impedance around a region using
tetrapolar technique in two orthogonal directions using special configurations of electrodes. This paper
presents the design and fabrication of the instrumentation of a dual frequency version of FIM, operating at
10kHz and 100kHz. Two separate oscillators with separate current drive circuitry were used in the design
to supply alternating currents with constant amplitude through circuitry based on op-amps. Potentials

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developed across two other electrodes were measured through a well designed bioelectric amplifier to
minimize associated noise. The signal was then converted to dc to get a numerical output through a digital
multi-meter. The system has a manual switching for the frequencies, and for changing the connection to
the electrodes in order to change the direction of impedance measurement in the prototype. Performance
test on the finished device gave values as desired. This instrument would be used to get preliminary
information on the measurement on human body, particularly addressed to the diagnosis of Cervical
Cancer, and characterization of already detected breast tumours. In a subsequent design all the switching
will be done automatically using a microcontroller or a personal computer.

11. DETECTION OF CERVICAL CANCER USING THE NEW

FOCUSED IMPEDANCE METHOD (FIM)
Sultana Mahmuda Yeasmin, Kamila Afroj1,
Md. Abdul Kadir, K Siddique-e Rabbani
Department of Biomedical Physics, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
1
Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Ultrasound, BAEC.
mgs@dhaka.net, rabbani@univdhaka.edu
Abstract: Cervical cancer occurs in the lining of the cervix and slowly, over time, forms a malignant
tumor. Cancer of the cervix is the second most common cancer affecting women in the world and the
commonest cause of cancer related mortality. It is highly curable when found and treated early, at the pre
cancerous phase known as Cervical Intra-epithelial Neoplasia (CIN). Visual Inspection with acetic acid
(VIA), Pap smear test and Colposcopy test are the existing methods of screening for the presence of
premalignant changes in superficial cervical tissue. A group at Sheffield University, UK demonstrated
that it is possible to distinguish between normal squamous epithelium and Cervical Intra-epithelial
Neoplasia (CIN), an early stage of cervical cancer, by measuring electrical impedance at different
frequencies using conventional tetrapolar impedance techniques. They showed that cell structure, shape
etc. change in cancer and electrical impedance can detect this change instantaneously.
Focused Impedance Method (FIM) developed recently by our group at Dhaka University provides an
opportunity for localized impedance measurement, and application of FIM may give more location
specific results in the detection and diagnosis of cervical cancer. From the spectral nature of the
impedance in case of cervical cancer, it also seems possible to obtain diagnostic information through
measurements at only two suitable frequencies, instead of a range of frequencies, which we are targeting
at present
In the present work firstly an appropriate electrode configuration is being developed using which
measurements will be carried out in phantoms. Then real life measurements will be carried out to see its
viability in comparison to traditional methods. The electrode configuration will be modified if needed,
and a comparative study will be made between these different configurations. The results will allow us to
decide on the technique which will then be used for clinical trial on human subjects with and without
Cervical Cancer. Finally the results of the clinical trial will give us adequate information to use the best
option as a diagnostic tool.

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12. ELECTRONIC MOBILITY AID FOR THE BLIND USING

ULTRASOUND ECHO-DELAY AND NERVE STIMULATION
K Siddique-e Rabbani, Md. Towhidul Islam1, Md. Shahriar Iqbal1, A K M Bodiuzzaman
Dept of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
1
Dept of Applied Physics, Electronics and Communication Engg, University of Dhaka.
rabbani@univdhaka.edu, towhidul_1099@yahoo.com
Abstract: This paper describes an electronic mobility aid for the visually handicapped using ultrasound
echo pulses, and delivering the distance information through nerve stimulation. This combination of
sensing and information delivery is a new idea of our extended group which developed an initial model
earlier. The frequency of the nerve stimulation is varied according to the distance between the person and
the obstacle, increasing with decreasing distance. This was designed to match a normal psychological
reaction of getting alarmed when the frequency of a sensation increases, ultimately allowing the person to
move away if the object gets too close. In a practical set up an ultrasonic transmitter and a receiver will be
mounted on two sides of a sunglass, and the wearer can sense the position of objects around by turning
the head. The changing frequency of stimulation will allow sensing the movement of an object as well. A
frequency of 40kHz was chosen for the ultrasound sensors to get a sensitive range of about 10m.
The transmitter circuit was designed using an astable or free running pulse generator which drives the
ultrasound transducer. Because of its high resonant characteristics, a damped sinusoidal waves result. The
receiver transducer picks up the reflected pulses which are amplified and processed to produce square
pulses. The time delay between the transmitted pulse and received pulse was used to produce a
proportional voltage through a triggered ramp generator. This voltage was the input of a voltage
controlled oscillator (VCO) which gave an output frequency depending on the modulating voltage. This
output was used to drive a nerve stimulator which produced 200V pulses with a width of about 1ms.
In the earlier prototype the useful range was short, about a few feet. The present work was mainly taken
up to extend the range. This was achieved by driving the transmitting transducer with high voltage of
about 150V by designing necessary high voltage circuitry. An experimental prototype, developed on a
bread board, gave a reasonably large output even at distances of 4 meters within the laboratory. From the
size of the received pulses from the ultrasound transducer, it is expected that it may be used to a range of
about 10m, which was the maximum range initially desired. When completed, this device will be helpful
for the blind people throughout the world at an affordable cost.

13. PATIENT RESPONSES IN A PHASE 1 CLINICAL TRIAL OF TARGETED

ALPHA THERAPY FOR METASTATIC MELANOMA
Barry J Allen
Centre for Experimental Radiation Oncology, St George Cancer Care Centre
Gray St, Kogarah 2217, NSW, Australia
bjallen@unsw.edu.au
Targeted alpha therapy is based on the cytotoxic properties of the high linear energy transfer (~ 100
keV/µm) and low range (20-80 µm) of alpha particles. Monoclonal antibodies are labeled with an alpha
emitting radioisotope to form the alpha-immunoconjugate. Our phase 1 melanoma trial with intravenous
injections of up to 25 mCi of the 213Bi-cDTPA-9.2.27 demonstrated that alpha therapy could regress solid
tumours without any adverse events1.

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The effect of key parameters such as melanoma inhibitory activity protein, age, sex, injected dose, lactate
dehydrogenase, disease stage and treatment dose were examined. Thirty nine patients with stage IV
melanoma or in transit metastasis were treated with activities of 55-1035 MBq. No adverse events of any
type or level were observed, so the maximum tolerance dose was not achieved.
An objective partial response rate of 10% was observed for partial response, with 40% stable disease for 8
weeks and a median survival of 8.9 months. Survival analysis showed MIA, disease stage, LDH and
treatment effect to be significant prognostic indicators for survival. The lack of dose response is indicative
of the importance of the tumour capillary permeability, without which alpha therapy cannot function2.

14. PALLIATIVE RADIOTHERAPY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

Barry J Allen
Centre for Experimental Radiation Oncology, St George Cancer Care Centre
Gray St, Kogarah 2217, NSW Australia
bjallen@unsw.edu.au
Abstract: The International Agency for Research on Cancer predicts that cancer incidence in developing
countries will increase dramatically in the first two decades of this millennium. Already some 80% of
cancer patients in developing countries present with incurable disease. In many cases pain is a severe
problem and palliation is needed to improve quality of life as well as extending survival.
This paper will consider the physical and clinical aspects of palliative radiotherapy (PRT), choice of
radiation modality, alternative approaches to imaging and therapy and cost-benefit considerations.
The potential benefits of a dedicated palliative centre include lower cost and therefore more centres,
enabling more patients access to regional palliative care.. Whilst there is an obvious need for palliative
radiotherapy, simple curative treatments could also be managed.
Co60 radiotherapy has important advantages in developing countries, because of the higher initial cost of
a linear accelerator, as well as the need for reliable power supply and the level of skill required by linac
technicians and physicists. The beam characteristics of both Co60 units and low energy linacs are
compared and both are found to be acceptable for palliation.
The concept of telemedicine is also discussed, using mobile phones and internet communication to allow
rural clinics to receive support from specialists based in the cities, to send images for remote diagnosis
and remote dose planning for radiotherapy.

15. ATTENUATION CHARACTERISTICS OF WML BLOCK FOR

CERVIX CANCER TREATMENT
Alok Kumar Dey1, Md. Adnan Kiber1 , M. Jahangir Alam2 and S. Reza Husain2
1
Department of Applied Physics, Electronics & Communication Engineering,
University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
2
Oncology Unit, Delta Medical center, Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
meos.bd@hotmail.com
Abstract: Cervix cancer among Bangladeshi females is very common. Radiation therapy is one of the
modality to treat it. The common modality of treatment of early stage cervical cancers Ιb, ΙΙa and ΙΙb
cases is through a combination of intracavity applicator (radiation) and external beam irradiation
(radiotherapy) delivering required dose to the cervix and significantly reduced dose to the surrounding

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normal tissues and vital organs like rectum and urinary bladder. The main goal of the radiotherapy
treatment is to maximize the radiation dose at lesions (tumor volume) and minimize dose below the
tolerance level in the surrounding normal tissues. Cervix cancer treatment is a critical task as different
important organs like rectum, bladder, parametrium, fornix have different radiation tolerance levels.
Conventional rectangular block shields the rectum area and urinary bladder but the resultant dose fall off
is very rapid beyond point ‘A’ (Point A is defined to be 2 cm superior to the external cervical OS and 2
cm lateral to the cervical canal) resulting in dose inhomogeneity to the target volume.. To overcome this
problem, an alternative method is proposed to protect the unnecessary central axis radiation dose to the
critical organs by using “Wedge shaped Mid-Line Block (WMLB)
The wedge shaped mid-line block has a rectangular shape at the center and wedge shaped slope on both
sides. The central rectangular portion with an area 10×4cm² and thickness of 5.5 HVLS (Half Value
Layer Surface) ensure nearly 100% shielding up to point A. The wedge shaped portion of the block
covers an overall area of 10×10cm² on both sides of the uterine canal for a source to surface distance
(SSD) of 80 cm (the edge of the block being named point B). Beyond this point and up to the edge of the
beam, there is no shielding, since the contribution of intracavity dose is considered to be nil. To estimate
the thickness of the block between point A and B a lateral 100% dose profile was generated for Fletcher-
Suit applicator at the level of point A using computer. The fall off of dose between point A and B was
estimated in percentage by normalising to the dose at the point A (taken as 100%).
This paper presents the attenuation characteristics of the fabricated WMLB. Cobalt 60 was used as
radiation source and Electrometer PTW UNIDOS and Farmer ion chamber (0.6 cc) were used to carry out
radiation dose measurements. Attenuation close to 97% was obtained using the WMLB from the central
axis to point A to compensate the fall of dose, which represents a good achievement.

16. LESSONS FROM MAJOR RADIATION ACCIDENTS IN

RADIOTHERAPY PRACTICES
A. Sattar Mollah
Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, GPO Box 158, Dhaka, Bangladesh
mollah_as@yahoo.com
Abstract: Radiation therapy uses high-powered x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells.
There are two forms of radiation therapy:
• External beam radiation, which is the most common form. This method carefully aims high
powered x-rays or particles directly at the tumor from outside of the body.
• Internal beam radiation, which uses radioactive seeds that are placed directly into or near the
tumor. Internal beam radiation is also called interstitial radiation or brachytherapy.
Radiation accident or injury attributable to radiotherapy is a topic that has attracted ample attention in the
literature. However, the literature is clearly devoid of compilations regarding the effects of ionized
radiation accidents. Lessons have been learned from investigations into a relatively large number of
accidents that have occurred in radiotherapy practices. In order to prevent accidents in radiotherapy, it is
important to learn from accidents that have occurred previously. Lessons learnt from a number of
accidents are summarized and underlying patterns are looked for in this paper. Accidents can be
prevented by applying several safety layers of preventive actions. Categories of these preventive actions
are discussed together with specific actions belonging to each category of safety layer. This paper
provides an overview of the lessons learnt and specifically considers the human actions and omissions
that have resulted in accidents.

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17. DESIGN OF INTENSITY AND FIELD SHAPE CONTROL OF AN

INFRARED SYSTEM FOR CANCER TREATMENT
Istihaq Hussain, Md. Shafiqur Rahman, M.H.Imtiaz, Md.Adnan Kiber
Dept of Applied Physics, Electronics & Communication Engg, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
shafiqrahman50@yahoo.com

Abstract: Cancer is one of the deadly diseases which affect a large number of populations worldwide.
There are many types of cancers depending on their origin and where it grows. Now-a-days it is treated
using many different techniques, for example surgery, radiation therapy, hyperthermia etc. Hyperthermia
is a process where heat energy is used to destroy/weaken the cancerous cell. We proposed Infrared or Far
Infrared light radiation can be used for hyperthermia process instead of currently used methods. The
proposed infrared radiation cancer treatment system consists of two functional sub system or units. The
intensity control sub unit has controllable knobs by which heat radiation incident on tumor volume can be
adjusted as per calculation done by the Medical Physicist to raise the temperature to the desired value.
The shape control sub unit produces a shape of focused radiation that matches the shape of the tumor
target volume, so that surrounding normal tissues gets minimum (safe) level of heat radiation. The power
control circuit changes the intensity of radiation by changing the conduction angle of the power device,
triac. The conduction angle is changed by step selection Resistor, and fine tuning of power controlled by a
continuous variable resistor within that selected range. The desired shape is constructed by controlled sub
unit using multi leafs heat radiation absorber or obstructers. We borrowed the idea of multi leaf collimator
used in Multi million taka recently introduced ionizing radiation therapy LINAC system for cancer
treatment. By placing the each multi-leaf component at desired position any shape can be simulated. In
this project for simplicity we used eight leafs for shape control. Higher number of leafs definitely would
increase the precession of the shape to be constructed. The inward or outward position of any leaf is
controlled by a small size digital stepper motor connected to it, whose steps are controlled by sequences
of digital pulses. The proposed multi-leaf intensity and shape controlled infrared system for cancer
treatment has been designed and found to be working.

18. RADIATION PROTECTION MANAGEMENT IN SEVERAL X-RAY

INSTALLATIONS.
Nazma Zaman1, Abdus Sattar Mollah2, Sultana Mahmuda Yeasmin3
1
Department of Physics, Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology, Dhaka
2
Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka
3
Home Economic College, Dhaka, Bangladesh
mollah_as@yahoo.com, mgs@dhaka.net
Abstract: In Bangladesh number of X-ray machines is increasing at a rate accelerated by the recent
economic expansions. Despite the low dose per examination, the magnitude of practice makes the
diagnostic X-ray the dominant source of medical radiation exposures. It estimates that the average
individual and collective doses to the world population from diagnostic medical X-ray examination range
from 0.3 to 2.2 mSv and 1.8 to 5 mSv respectively. The X-ray installations, therefore, deserve attention
from population dose perspective. This study was undertaken to survey the radiation protection
management in several X-ray installations of Narayanganj district. To get a real picture of radiation
protection management of a specific area this work is necessary. It will give us an assessment about the
radiation protection condition of X-ray installations of our country. A questionnaire was used to collect
the raw data about a specific X-ray installation. Questions were divided in some basic categories such as

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general information i.e. particulars of X-ray technicians, availability of protective equipments etc. and
technical information i.e. types of X-ray unit, maximum kV and mA etc. Some technical observation such
as availability of warning signal, area of X-ray room etc. were also noted. Measurement of radiation
exposure in each X-ray installation was carried out at different locations of that specific installation by
using a survey meter during typical X-ray examination.
Present study gives the information that only 12% radiation workers are trained and only 10%
installations having a proper control panel are considering radiation protection for X-ray operator. About
33% of the total installations have standard size X-ray room i.e. room with area above 16 meters. The
lead apron, which is an important radiation protection item for the operator, is available in 83%
installations. Only 28% installations have the entrance door with lead which is also essential for the
protection of visitors standing out side of the X-ray room. In the present study, skin entrance dose has
been calculated by using two different empirical formulae. The variation of result has also been
calculated. Then the organ dose calculation for different organs was done based on the skin entrance dose
and International Commission for Radiation Protection tissue weighting factor. The minimum value of
organ doses were measured and for Gonads it is 4.33 µGy, for bone marrow, 4.33 µGy, for bone surface,
0.36 µGy, whereas, the maximum value of organ doses measured are for Gonads, 75.76 µGy, for bone
surface, 4.87 µGy and for liver, 24.33 µGy. Study of this work thus compares well with the works which
had already been done abroad. The lay out of the X-ray room has also been drawn and the dose rate at
various locations was measured by using a dose meter. These layouts should help to develop a standard
lay out plan for X-ray room.
The results of this study will help us to understand the radiation protection management system of most of
the X-ray installations of our country and take necessary actions to implement the rules or regulations
suggested for the radiation protection of the diagnostic X-ray installations. In coming years, there will be
more clinics and government hospital and it is therefore, suggested that in future, a more comprehensive
study be carried out for dose absorbed by patients undergoing radiological investigations, the
occupational workers, the public at large (for example, relatives accompanying the patients). It will then
give a more general picture of the radiation protection management in X-ray installations. However, the
results presented in this work should partly serve as base line to establish a full-fledged radiation
protection procedure for our country.

19. PATIENT-SPECIFIC DOSIMETRY FOR I-131 IN THE NORMAL

BANGLADESHI
M N Islam1, N Hossain1, K Afroj1, F Alam1, M A Zaman2, S M Azharul Islam2
1
Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Ultrasound, BAEC, BSMMU Campus, Shahbag, Dhaka.
2
Department of Physics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka.
nurulislam_40@yahoo.com, q.kamila@gmail.com
Abstract: Biological internal dosimetry performed on fifteen normal patients who underwent a routine
diagnostic investigation with I-131. Tracer kinetics and bio-distribution for I-131 were evaluated by a
dual head ECAM gamma camera, with planar images, and a thyroid uptake system. A water phantom of
known activity and volume were used to find the cross calibration factor and to convert bio-distribution
data into activities. These data were used to plot a time-activity curve and used to determine effective
half-life of I-131 in different source organs for the patient. Thus the cumulated activities of I-131 in
thyroid and in different organs, as well as the residence times at different organs are calculated. These
values with a recent version of software program MIRDOSE3 was used to calculate the absorbed dose per
unit of activity in the target organ. The absorbed doses to thyroid as a target organ in normal and healthy

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Bangladeshis were calculated and found in the range of 592-1150 rad/mCi of I-131. The effective dose
equivalent at the time of highest thyroid uptake (23%) was 3.56E+01 rem/mCi. Thus gamma camera
based, patient specific internal dosimetry is feasible using I-131. Sequential planar image can be used to
obtain cumulated activity in different source organs.

20. A STUDY ON THE IONIZATION CHAMBER USED IN

REFEENCE DOSIMETRY.

Shamsun Naher Islam

Dept of Electrical & Electronic Engg, Primeasia University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
naher.buet@gmail.com
Abstract: Modern radiotherapy relies on accurate dose delivery to the prescribed target volume. Before
clinical use, the output of photon and electron beams produced by external beam radiotherapy machines
must be calibrated. A study on comparison of three types of ionization chamber used in reference
dosimeter as absolute dosimeters is presented here from recent commercial use .Also a discussion of
using more practical solid materials as phantom materials such as polystyrene; Lucite, A-150 tissue
equivalent plastic, Solid Water (WT1), Solid Water (RMI-457), Plastic Water or Virtual Water beside the
standard material Water is also mentioned.

21. RADIATION MONITORING OF A NEWLY ESTABLISHED

NUCLEAR MEDICINE FACILITY
Kamila Afroj1, Anwar-ul- Azim1, Nurul Islam1, Ferdoushi Begum1,
Md. Nahid Hossain1, Tanvir Ahmed Biman1, Md. Rezaul Karim2
1
Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Ultrasound, Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission
2
Health Physics Division, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission
q.kamila@gmail.com
Abstract: A study of area monitoring in a nuclear medicine department’s new physical facility was
performed for 3 months to ascertain the level of radiation protection of the staff working in nuclear
medicine and that of the patients and patient’s attendants. Exposure to nuclear medicine personnel is
considered as occupational exposure, while exposure to patients is considered medical exposure and
exposure to patients’ attendants is considered public exposure. The areas that were considered the sources
of radiation hazard were (a) the hot laboratory, where unsealed isotopes, radionuclides, generators are
stored and dosages are prepared, (b) the patients’ waiting room where the radioactive nuclides are
administered orally and intravenously for diagnosis and treatment and (c) the SPECT rooms, where the
patients’ acquisition are taken. The monitoring process was performed using the TLD supplied and
measured by the Health Physics Division of Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission. The result shows
no over-exposure of radiation from any of the working areas. The environment of the department is safe
for work and free from unnecessary radiation exposure risk.

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22. REVIEW OF MEDICAL EQUIPMENT NEEDS IN VANUATU

Barry J Allen
Centre for Experimental Radiation Oncology, St George Cancer Centre
Gray St, Kogarah NSW 2217 Australia
bjallen@unsw.edu.au

Abstract: Vanuatu lies off the East coast of Australia with a Melanesian population of ~300,000. Of the
working age population, only one quarter are engaged in monetary activity and two thirds work as
subsistence farmers. Major businesses are mostly owned by overseas interests and villages are rarely
involved in commercial livestock and fruit & vegetable production. As such, Vanuatu is seriously
disadvantaged financially when it comes to rural public health services. In 2008 there were 34 Health
Centers and 6 hospitals in 6 provinces, supported by ~ 46 midwives and 40 nurse practitioners.

A detailed review was undertaken of medical services in the villages and towns, with particular regard to
equipment and training needs. Visits were made to the National Referral Hospital: Vila Central Hospital,
Efate (Level 6); Regional Referral Hospital: Northern Districts Hospital, Luganville, Santo (Level 5);
Level 3 Health Centres at Paunagisu Health Centre, North Efate, Fanafo Health Centre, Santo and Port
Olry Health Centre, Santo and a Level 2b Dispensary: Erakor Dispensary, Efate.

The following comments are pertinent to this report.

• Staff morale would be enhanced by availability of improved communications.
• Vacuum birthing equipment and ultrasound is requested.
• In-house training and distant education for improved morale, skill base and service.
• The villagers should provide voluntary maintenance support, so that accumulated funds can be
spent on more important requirements.
• Increase in the retirement age so as to retain experienced staff.
• Microscopes needed for malaria and HIV in hospitals.
• Need for pressurized autoclaves, drip stands for IV infusion, baby scales and blood pressure
measurement.

Overall recommendations
• Introduction of local, in-house apprenticeships at all levels.
• Increase in the retirement age so as to retain experienced staff.
• Engineer required for equipment repair (Engineers Australia support).
• Support for cervical cancer screening.
• Palliative pain centre is required for end-stage cancer patients.
• Telemedicine via mobile phone technology using the existing transmission towers.

This review was funded by a grant from the Australasian College of Physical Scientists and Engineers in
Medicine (ACPSEM).

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23. EVALUATION OF A HEMATOLOGY ANALYZER EQUIPMENT

BASED ON 4-ANGLE ARGON LASER LIGHT SCATTER AND 2-COLOR
FLUORESCENCE FLOW CYTOMETRY
Iraj Alipourfard, Nader Heydari1
Shahid Bahonar Hospital and Research Institute, Tehran, Iran
1
Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization(IBTO), Khuzestan, Iran
email: alipourfard@gmail.com
Abstract: A new generation hematology analyzer, Abbott CELL-DYN 4000 (CD 4000), capable of
providing 26 parameters, including fully automated reticulocyte, nucleated RBC, blast, band, and
immature granulocyte, and variant lymphocyte counts, was evaluated by using the National Committee
for Clinical Laboratory Standards H20-A protocol and compared with the Bayer-Technicon H-2 analyzer,
which is used routinely in our laboratory. A lipid interference experiment and a sample aging study also
were performed. Linearity, carryover, and precision were within the limits established by the
manufacturer, and satisfactory agreement was found with the H-2 analyzer. The evaluation of leukocyte
differential counts indicated an excellent correlation with the manual reference method for neutrophils
and lymphocytes, a good correlation for monocytes and eosinophils, and a poor correlation for basophils
in samples with low counts; for basophil counts of 2% or higher, we found an improvement of the
correlation coefficient. In the lipid interference experiment, only hemoglobin determination was
influenced significantly on the CD 4000, but by using a new Abbott hemoglobin reagent, the interference
was eliminated. The CBC and differential counts were stable and reportable up to at least 24 hours.
Intrasample viability information on leukocytes provided a quality check on each individual specimen.

24. A NEW SERVICE USING A PORTABLE ELECTRO-

ENCEPHALOGRM (EEG) EQUIPMENT
Selina H. Banu 1, Md. Abu Zahid 2, Shipra Rani3, Naheed Nabi 4
1
Institute of Child Health and SSF Hospital, Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2
CNC Clinical Neurophysiology laboratory, Mirpur, Dhaka
3
Comfort Diagnostic center, Dhaka, 4 Clinical Neurophysiologist
selina_h_banu@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Introduction: We introduced the portable EEG in February 2010 for the first time in Bangladesh to
extend the service for difficult to reach population. Our target is to provide high technology based service
for the people with neurological and neuro-developmental disorders.
Objective: This study was performed to describe the electro-clinical profile and evaluate the value of
portable service in the context of our socio-economic and disease pattern in children.
Methods: We have reviewed the clinical criteria, referral pattern and the EEG findings of the children
which were performed with the portable EEG machine during the period of February to December 2010.
Result: Total 69 EEGs were performed by the portable EEG machine. Tests were performed for the
children who were difficult to move from the hospital care, i.e., patient in coma, in status epilepticus at
Dhaka Shishu Hospital, Mirpur Shishu Hospital, ICU of Comfort Diagnostic Center, ICU of United
Hospital, ICU Care Hospital, Home in Dhaka city. In addition, we organized clinics for children with
neurological disorders including suspected epilepsy in two villages of Hobiganj in February 2010 and in
Kishorganj in December for the first time in the country. The diagnosis of Epilepsy was confirmed in

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some of the children with immediate EEG and appropriate treatment could be started for their epileptic
seizures on the spot.
Conclusion: Medical technology is the essential part of health management and should be available at all
levels. It is possible to arrange appropriate diagnosis and treatment for Epilepsy and related neurological
disabilities among the population at remote areas.

25. USE OF AN INNOVATIVE INDIGENOUS ELECTRICAL

GASTROMETER IN ASSESSING GASTRIC ACIDITY
Siddartha Sankar Biswas
Gobindopur, Sreepur, Magura, Bangladesh
deepak_hitech99@yahoo.com
Abstract: As a trainee rural doctor the author noticed that many patients complain of acidity problems,
i.e., problems related to digestion. However, no equipment capable of measuring such conditions of
acidity quantitatively are available in the hospitals of Bangladesh, and treatment is carried out based on
the idea of the doctor only. This sometimes leads to complications, and even death may result in certain
cases. Equipment to measure pH in the Esophagus are available in advanced countries, but these are
expensive, and have not found much in use in Bangladesh. This experience led the author to develop an
innovative electrical gastrometer that takes measurements from the saliva of the patient. Measurements
were taken on more than 1000 human subjects including normal subjects and patients with different
degrees of acidity problem. The results indicate the efficacy of this instrument. Treatment given to these
patients based on this estimation also produced relief in majority of cases.

26. DEVELOPMENT OF A LOW COST PERSONAL COMPUTER BASED

ECG MONITOR FOR THE THIRD WORLD
K Siddique-e Rabbani, A Raihan Abir, A K M Bodiuzzaman,
Department of Biomedical Physics & Technology
University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
rabbani@univdhaka.edu, raihan1079@gmail.com, nipun1207@gmail.com
Abstract: ECG equipment is vital for diagnosis of cardiac problems. However, such equipment come
from the economically advanced countries at a huge cost in both procurement and maintenance, and
therefore cannot offer services to a large population in the Third World. The only solution is to design and
develop such equipment in individual countries by developing local expertise. With about three decades
of experience, the Dhaka University group has taken a step towards developing prototypes of low cost
ECG equipment for dissemination to the healthcare service providers. Since personal computers are
available widely, a PC based solution was the target. This paper presents the detailed design and
development of a PC based ECG equipment where optimized choice of components and of the design
have been made keeping the cost and maintenance in view, but not sacrificing the quality, and
incorporating necessary safety features to protect the patient from known hazards. Outputs obtained from
human subjects are of reasonable good quality, and have been verified using standard ECG equipment.
The PC based ECG system will allow digital post processing of signals for improved diagnosis through
software. The same PC could be used for acquiring data from various other sensors and equipment to
provide comprehensive health monitoring in the rural areas. In future, this could be the basis of a
nationwide telemedicine network.

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27. DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A PORTABLE

MINIATURE ECG MONITOR
Nahian Rahman1, A K M Bodiuzzaman, A Raihan Abir, K Siddique-e Rabbani
Department of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
1
Dept of Mechanical Engineering, BUET, Dhaka, Bangladesh
nahiian@yahoo.com, rabbani@univdhaka.edu
Abstract: A portable battery powered miniature ECG monitor with a small graphic display
screen has been developed at low cost which can be used in rural areas, and may be carried by
medical practitioners in their bags for on site service to patients. This involved development of
electronic hardware based on a microcontroller unit (MCU) and necessary software. The electronic
hardware consisted of an analogue part and a digital part. The analogue front end amplified the feeble
ECG signal eliminating much larger mains borne 50Hz noise, and was based on an Instrumentation
amplifier and a few operational amplifier IC’s. Since the whole system is battery powered no electrical
isolation was necessary from the considerations of safety and noise reduction. The digital section is based
on a microcontroller unit (MCU), Atmega 32, with built-in analogue to digital converter. For graphics
display a 128 x 64 pixel monochrome LCD unit (Topway LM6063) with integrated controller (Ks0713)
was used. This displays graphics through 8 vertically displaced rows, each of 128 x 8 pixels, and plotting
8 vertical pixels at a time sequentially from left to right for each row. Firmware (base software) necessary
to control the graphics was developed and stored in the MCU. Software was developed to acquire
analogue data sequentially in equal intervals of time, converting these to digital values, simultaneous
calculation of co-ordinates of display pixel to be plotted, performing algorithm to join the current point
with the last plotted point through a line, and sending all this information to the graphic controller. The
software also displayed the total time of a horizontal plot numerically on a corner of the screen by
acquiring timer pulses from the MCU and performing necessary calculation. Both firmware and software
were developed in ‘C’ language. Using facilities available in the MCU, 5 external control buttons
provided functions to shift the display up and down, to change the horizontal scale of display, and to
freeze the display at any time. ECG from real human subjects was obtained and displayed using this
device, and was found satisfactory. The developed hardware was mounted in a compact box with
integrated battery. Field trial and further improvement will be needed before it can be given out to users.
A little modification will make it suitable for ambulatory monitoring, with data stored in an SDRAM,
which can later be read into a PC and analysed by a doctor.

28. DEVELOPMENT OF A LOW COST PULSE OXIMETER WITH

AN IMPROVISED PROBE
M Sadat Hasan2, K Hussain Sunny1, S M Mehedee Parvez2,
Tanvir Noor Baig3 and K Siddique-e Rabbani1
1
Dept of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
2
Dept of Applied Physics, Electronics & Communication Engg., University of Dhaka.
3
Dept of Physics, University of Dhaka
neloysadat@gmail.com, rabbani@univdhaka.edu
Abstract: SpO2 stands for either ‘Saturation of Peripheral Oxygen’ or ‘Oxygen saturation on Pulse
Oximetry’. It is directly related to the arterial blood oxygen saturation level and is usually called the fifth
vital sign, which carries great importance in medical diagnosis. A pulse oximeter is a non-invasive device
to measure SpO2 and heart beat rate. Commercial devices are available from foreign manufacturers, but

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these are very expensive, and their widespread use in our rural health centres is not practicable. A locally
developed device can reduce the cost and fulfill this important gap.
In a pulse oximeter light of two different wavelengths is passed through some limbs of the body, usually
the finger tips or ear lobes, and is modulated by the pulsatile blood flow therein. The amplitude of the
alternating current component generated by the processed light incident on the photo detector is used to
calculate the molecular extinction co-efficient that relates to the degree of oxygen saturation. To eliminate
contributions of skin colour and other body tissues, lights of two different wavelengths are used. Two
LEDs, a red one having a wavelength of 660nm and an infrared LED having a wavelengths of 900nm,
provide two different absorption values which depend on the presence of oxyhemoglobin and
deoxyhemoglobin in the blood. Based on Beer-Lambert law, the logarithmic ratio of these absorption
values can be analysed to obtain the desired value of SpO2. The necessary calculation is performed using
a microcontroller. Side by side the pulsatile signal can be analysed through software in the
microcontroller to get the heart beat rate. When ready this device can be produced at low cost so that it
can be distributed to rural health centres at an affordable cost.

29. A PROPOSITION FOR LOW COST PREVENTIVE CARDIOLOGY

FOR RURAL HEALTH CARE SYSTEM IN BANGLADESH AND DESIGN
OF A CARDIOLOGICAL DATA COLLECTION PLATFORM USING A
NONINVASIVE APPROACH

Md. Afzalur Rab, Md. Fazlul Huq, Rajib Ahmed,

Md. Shafiul Islam,Md. Zahir Uddin Chowdhury
Dept. of Applied Physics, Electronics & communication Engineering,
University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
riazshhall@yahoo.com

Abstract: Many statistical investigations assert that cardiovascular disease is the prominent cause of
death for several million people annually. Novelty in public habits and lifestyles has introduced newer
maladies that the health care system of a country has not always been able to vie with. Need for
efficacious preventive cardiology has been advocated by many researchers. An imperative component of
effective preventive cardiology is to collect, monitor and maintain health data of the target population
over an extended period of time. In this paper, we propound a proposition of a cheaper methodology for
collection, distribution and dissemination of information pertaining to the cardio vascular system for rural
population in Bangladesh. Major incidents of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in rural population of
Bangladesh include different abnormalities that are manifested in ECG, ankle-brachial index, arterial
compliance and insufficient hemoglobin in children and pregnant women. A non-invasive approach can
be advocated for preliminary assessment of CVD by collecting the biomedical signals such as 3-lead
ECG, Phonocardiogram, Plethysmograph pulse oximetry and blood pressure. As all the signals can be
obtained in a non-invasive way, this approach offers several benefits such as the low cost of diagnostic
tests, low average time of data collection per subject, low capital investment, automated record keeping
and possibility of simultaneous acquisition of multiple signals. We designed a low cost data acquisition
platform by using locally available devices consists of several units- a signal acquisition unit including
transducers , signal conditioner and amplifier unit, a digitizer, USB interface and a computer .After
collection of data it can be stored and sent via internet to central server for analysis. This scheme can be
implemented with fewer difficulties and can perform a vital rule in public cardiological health care
system of Bangladesh.

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30. NEED TO DECENTRALIZE AND DEVELOP ASSISTIVE

DEVICES IN THE RURAL AREAS OF BANGLADESH.
Shuvra Kanti Dey
Physiotherapist, Vill: Notkhana, Nilphamari, Bangladesh
skdpt2004@yahoo.com
Many types of Assistive Devices (including Orthosis, Prosthesis, Brace Splints) have been
developed for the disabled, but are not available in rural areas of Bangladesh. In Bangladesh
some are available in Dhaka, but not in the other places, and obviously not in rural areas. It is
necessary to develop facilities for offering such services, including facilities of fabrication of
make such devices, in rural areas at a minimum cost. A policy for decentralization of such
facilities is needed for this purpose. The cost may be minimized and sustained services may be
achieved through procurement of locally made low cost machines and tools (oven for melting
poly propylene, welder, heat-gun, etc.) and development of skills among the assistive device
makers. A close collaboration among socially conscious researchers in Bio-Medical science and
Technology, and a facilitating policy of the Government is required to take necessary steps in
this regard.

31. DEVELOPING A REAL-TIME PATIENT CARE PROTOTYPE

ESPECIALLY FOR DISASTER SITUATIONS IN BANGLADESH USING
WIFI BASED TECHNOLOGY

Morsalin Uz Zoha
Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Chittagong
Chittagong, Bangladesh
mzoha@acm.org

Abstract: In our country Bangladesh, patient monitoring is still carried out by manual process. Here in
the country, emergency medical services to the victims of disasters are conducted by manually measuring
patient conditions. Patient assessments and documentation are also performed manually. Though in recent
years some telecom service providers start providing health service communicating over cell phones but
these measures are inadequate in disasters which occur frequently in our country. To achieve the goal of
vision 2021 to make a glorious Bangladesh, there is a need to develop a new patient care prototype to the
disaster response arena through the digitization and automation of the emergency medical services in
disasters by which each step of the rescue operation in a trauma will be e-compatible. IEEE 802.11
(WiFi) wireless based technology can play a significant role to provide necessary network infrastructure
to build up this real-time patient care prototype at the disaster sites, as it is economically viable in coastal
areas and hilly regions, which parts of our country are the most vulnerable to disasters, rather than
deploying new optical fiber in these areas. This paper mainly concentrates on the development of a real-
time patient care prototype to coordinate and enhance care of casualties in a natural or a human-made
disaster by the use of IEEE 802.11 (WiFi) wireless based technology.

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32. INNOVATION OF A LOW COST BONE DENSITOMETER BASED ON

EXISTING X-RAY FACILITY
Jubaid Abdul Qayyum1, Md. Masum Howlader1, Md. Tamzeed-Al-Alam1, Md. Saiful
Islam1, Tahmid Latif1, and K Siddique-e Rabbani
Department of Biomedical Physics & Technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh
1: Islamic University of Technology, Gazipur, Bangladesh
jubaidaq@yahoo.com, rabbani@univdhaka.edu

Abstract: Osteoporosis (bone degeneration) is a disabling condition, particularly at old age, and for
women, and needs to be diagnosed early for medical intervention. Specialised X-ray based bone
densitometry equipment are available, but are expensive and not widely available in Third World
countries. It was thought that an improvisation is possible using conventional X-ray equipment which is
available in most Third World hospitals. The idea was to have an X-ray of a specific bone of a subject on
a conventional X-ray film together with a stack of aluminium strips providing different thicknesses and
placed in the neighbourhood. Next the optical densities of the developed X-ray film would be measured at
desired bone locations and at the positions of the aluminium strips. The latter would provide a means of
calibration and standardization for the bone density, and will eliminate variations due to film quality,
exposure, and film development processes. In this work the necessary optical instrumentation was
developed using a number of red LED’s as an extended source the light beams from which was diffused
to obtain uniform lighting over a circular area of diameter 1cm, where the X-ray film is to be placed for
measurement. The transmitted light was concentrated onto a photo transistor and necessary electronic
circuitry was developed to obtain digital readout of light intensity values. Measurements were carried out
on two healthy young subjects and two aged patients. A significant difference was obtained as expected.
This now needs to be calibrated with a standard bone density measuring equipment to make the device
practically useful.

33. MEDICAL ASPECTS STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF THE EM WAVES

ON HUMANS AND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
M B Hossain
Dept. of Applied Physics, Electronics & Communication Engg.,
University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
bipul_apece@yahoo.com

Abstract: In modern life, we are surrounded by Electromagnetic (EM) radiations originated from various
appliances used in daily life. Interference of the EM waves has bad impacts on human beings like
neurological effects, physiological stress on human body and even genetic mutation that results in cancer.
All the devices used in daily life emit radiations having their own maximum level of emissions and the
distance at which they have minimal effect. In this paper, medical aspects have been studied for the effect
of the EM waves along with the latest inventions on shielding these waves. Based on the surveys, a living
room has been designed with minimum effect of harmful radiations even if it is fully equipped with the
electronic items. A future idea has also been given for saving power by converting the stray microwaves
in the atmosphere into current with the help of a receiver.

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34. EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS: ELECTROMAGNETIC

HYPERSENSITIVITY, A CASE STUDY
M.Quamruzzaman1, Farruk Ahmed2, Shabab Zaman3
1
Dept of Electrical & Electronic Engg., World University of Bangladesh, Dhaka
2
Dept of Applied Physics, Electronics & Communication Engg., University of Dhaka, Dhaka
3
Technical Core Network, Banglalink GSM, Dhaka
shababz@gmail.com

Abstract: It is only about 100 years since electricity generation started, 70 years since radio
transmission and 30 years mobile telephone system came into existence. As the world is being
industrialized and technological revolution continues, there has been an unprecedented increase in the
number and diversity of electromagnetic (EMF) sources. While all these devices have made our lives
richer, safer and easier, they have been accompanied by concerned possible health risks due to their
electromagnetic field (EMF) emission.

For sometime a number of individual have reported a variety of health problems that they relate to
exposure to EMF. While some individuals report mild symptoms and react by avoiding the field as mush
as they can, others are so severely affected that they cease work and change their entire lifestyle. So,
repeated sensitivity to EMF has been generally termed “electromagnetic hypersensitivity” or “EHS”.

There is a wide range of estimates of the prevalence of EHS in the general population. A survey of
occupational centers estimated the prevalence of EHS to be a few individual per million in populations.
However, a survey of self-help groups yielded much higher estimates. Approximately 10% reported cases
of EHS were considered severe.

There is also considerable geographical variability in prevalence of EHS and in the reported symptoms.
The reported incidence of EHS has been higher in Sweden, Germany and Denmark than in the UK,
Austria and France. VDU related symptoms were more prevalent in Scandinavian countries and they were
commonly related to skin disorders than elsewhere in Europe. Symptoms similar to those reportedly by
EHS individuals are common in the general population.

EHS is characterized by a variety of non-specific symptoms that differ from individual to individual. The
symptoms are certainly real and can vary on their severity. Whatever it causes, EHS can be a disabling
problem for the affected individuals.

A case study has been carried out very recently among the employees of a NGO organization in an office
block with an 11kV power line passing near one of the walls. Measurements were carried out on the
magnetic fields produced. It was found that people working near the high voltage side of the building
developed various complains including headaches only within a few weeks, it may be considered as
hypersensitivity of the people towards the effect of EMF. After relocating these persons to areas distant
from the high voltage lines, the physical symptoms disappeared.

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Regional Conference on Medical Physics, Dhaka 18 February, 2011

35. MIGRATION OF RADIONUCLIDE 137CS IN NORMAL SOLUTION

THROUGH DIFFERENT TYPES OF SOIL LAYER

M M Haque, S Ghose1 and S M A Islam

Department of Physics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

1
Nuclear Safety & Radiation Control Division, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission,
4 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Ramna, Dhaka.
mozaharulhaque41@gmail.com, ghosesatyajit@yahoo.com

Abstract: This paper presents the results of migration behavior of 137Cs in various type of soil
(agriculture soil, land soil, high land soil and river soil) profiles by γ-spectrometer which were sampled
(0-50 cm depth) in the Sylhet sadar upazila areas of Bangladesh. Migration of radionuclide is one of the
most important factors to be considered when carrying out safety analyses of radioactive waste and
opening a good absorber for the reduction of radionuclide from radioactive liquid waste generated from
nuclear facilities. Laboratory based column experiments have been carried out with a fixed column length
(50 cm) and diameter (5.34 cm) to determine migration depth, migration percentage and migration rate of
137Cs after passing 50 ml 137Cs aqueous solution and 4000 ml distilled water. The physio-chemical
characteristics, soil-water characteristics and radioactive concentration of natural radionuclide of the soil
were also measured. It was observed that the maximum migration of 137Cs was found at a maximum
length 0-10 cm in clay type of low land soil, 0-20 cm in clay loam textured of agriculture soil and 0-15
cm in sandy loam textured of high land and river soil. The downward migration depth concentration of
137
Cs via de-sorption, diffusion or flow in clay type soil column layer is very small than that of other soils.
These results indicated that locally available clay can be used as an adsorbent for the decontamination of
liquid radioactive waste generated at nuclear facilities without any pretreatment.

36. DRINKING WATER DISINFECTION USING LOW VOLTAGE

ELECTRICAL FIELD, AN INNOVATIVE METHOD TARGETING THE
RURAL POPULATION

K Siddique-e Rabbani and Rahman Faizur Rafique

Dept of Biomedical Physics & technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
rabbani@univdhaka.edu, dipu1219@hotmail.com

Abstract: Surface water in rivers, canals, ponds, wells, etc. in the rural areas does not contain arsenic.
Therefore removing or destroying diarrhoeal pathogens can render such water drinkable. However, to be
of use in the rural areas, simple low cost techniques are needed. One of the authors (KSR) first thought of
using low voltage electrical fields to remove such pathogens in water using the method of electrical drift,
and carried out some preliminary tests many years back showing indications of success. The idea
stemmed from information that most bacteria carry a negative surface charge. It was thought that by
simply applying a low voltage across a enclosed water volume, it may be possible to push such negative
charge carrying bacteria towards the positive electrode (anode). The water around the negative electrode
(cathode) should have reduced concentration of pathogens rendering the water drinkable. The present
work was taken up to test this idea through microbiological investigation. Techniques were developed to
apply a voltage across a water volume taken in two horizontally placed PET bottles linked through a short
piece of tight fitting soft plastic tubing. Pond water was treated in this manner for about 30 minutes using

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Regional Conference on Medical Physics, Dhaka 18 February, 2011

3V dc and water samples were collected from the two ends. Microbiological investigation for total
coliform (TC) done at NGO forum for drinking water showed approximately 4 times reduction of
bacterial concentration at the cathode region, and several times increase at the anode region, in agreement
with the initially conceived idea. On the application of 30V, the concentration reduced further at the
cathode, but the concentration at the anode was less than that obtained for 3V. It was hypothesized that
nascent oxygen generated at the anode contributed to a destruction of bacteria at the anode. It was not
assessed whether water with the reduced concentration at the cathode would be safe to drink or not.
However, taking a parallel run on a method called SODIS, promoted in the Third World by a Swiss
organisation, where water in a transparent PET bottle is left in sunshine for 5 hours, we found it to have
less reduction of TC compared to that at the cathode after treatment in our method. Further work is being
carried out at a facility offering a better microbiological discrimination.

37. DRINKING WATER DISINFECTION AT LOW COST FOR

RURAL AREAS USING SOLAR THERMAL PROCESS

K Siddique-e Rabbani
Dept of Biomedical Physics & technology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
rabbani@univdhaka.edu

Abstract: Surface water in rivers, canals, ponds, wells, etc. is free of arsenic and is available in most
Third World villages. By destroying diarrhoeal pathogens such water may be rendered drinkable. Past
scientific work has shown that all diarrhoeal pathogens may be destroyed by heating water to 60°C and
maintaining it for about half an hour, which is also the technique of milk Pasteurisation. The author has
innovated very low cost methods and techniques to destroy such pathogens by raising the water
temperature to more than 60°C in about one and a half hours using solar energy. Microbiological tests on
treated pond water have borne it out. The device is basically a flat plate solar water heater, but the
innovation lies in the use of very low cost and easily available materials like hay, bamboo trays and
transparent polythene or polypropylene sheets or bags. A unit for 5 litres will cost about Taka 150 (about
US $2.00), which can treat about 10 litres in two harvests on a typical sunny day, and will last months if
used carefully. Pre-filtration using a normal cloth will improve the quality of the water. An NGO
successfully introduced this device among the river gypsies in a part of Bangladesh. For rainy days, a
simple open funnel has been contrived using the same polythene sheets which can help collect a large
amount of rainwater which is good for drinking. Extra amounts may be collected for future storage.
Microbiological tests by other groups have shown that diarrhoeal germs are destroyed even at 55°C in this
device innovated by us. The extra role of UV in sunlight has been invoked to explain this result. For
coastal areas with salinity, attempts are being made to make low cost solar distillation units to give
reasonable outputs of drinkable water.
Flood water may be made drinkable by making all the above devices on a common raft. Each family can
make such units on its own and will not depend upon common initiatives and infrastructures which are
sometimes difficult to organize in the villages. The devices may also find use globally in post disaster
periods, after cyclones, earthquakes, civil wars, etc.

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