Intelligent tools to control the effect of radiation on the eye
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Date
2024-07-12
Authors
Αδαμοπούλου, Μαρία
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Abstract
This thesis delves into how certain human tissues, as the eye's lens, are prone to damage from radiation. Notably, the eye's lens has shown a significant vulnerability to low-LET radiation through a variety of processes. There's been an effort by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) to revise the guidelines on acceptable limits for high-LET radiation exposure. The article offers important perspectives on how radiation affects human tissues, emphasizing the necessity for correct radiation exposure guidelines. It also examines the potential impact of radiation on other eye diseases and the development of cataracts among health workers, flight personnel, and astronauts. This thesis could offer valuable insights into the root causes of radiation-induced eye diseases and aid in refining radiation protection strategies. Recent studies support the long-held belief that the lens of the eye is one of the human body's most radiosensitive tissues, especially in the ocular region. This study highlights the influence of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation, which may cause cataracts or other visual illnesses. We exposed intact cultured lenses to microwave radiation for extended periods while maintaining a consistent ambient temperature using an A.I. computer-controlled electromagnetic bench. To simulate using a cell phone, both eyes were exposed to microwave radiation at 0.8 to 1.2 GHz and 2.0 W from a distance of 2 to 5 cm. The investigation of electromagnetic field (EMF) distribution in living tissues was simulated using the Sim4Life platform's MIDAS head phantom for personalized experiments through “Digital Twin” approaches. According to our research, this electromagnetic radiation causes a mean rapid 2 °C temperature increase. Notably, electromagnetic radiation causes temperature-related effects on the sclera, choroid, and retina, which are the posterior portions of the eye. This is explained by the predominant heat flux that these regions' blood flow produces. Extended exposure (i.e., more than 20 minutes) to 2.0 W at 1.1 GHz is detrimental to the eyes’ health and optical performance. The temperature elevation is the main cause of possible damaging processes for the nonionizing radiation band, according to International Regulation Bodies such as ICRP and ICNIRP. The study unequivocally shows that microwave radiation has an impact on the eye structures, introducing risks with both immediate and long-term consequences. The optical transmission properties of these structures are compromised by electromagnetic radiation that surpasses specific energy thresholds, indicating potential harm to them. The current methodology can also be applied to personalize workplace/environment safety measures or even medication techniques for eye tissues, as all Digital Twins models.
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Keywords
Digital twin, Eye, Low-LET radiation