Attenuation Dependent Radio-Sensitivity in Dioscorea rotundata: Uncovering the Underlying X-Irradiation induced response

This research investigated the implications of attenuation on Dioscorea rotundata samples that were subjected to X-irradiation. A microbial analysis was conducted prior to and subsequent to the irradiation of Dioscorea rotundata specimens, resulting in an 87% reduction in microbial load. A total of ten Dioscorea rotundata specimens, consisting of five unfertilized varieties and five inorganically fertilized varieties, were subjected to X-ray irradiation utilizing a Philips Medical PXR 321B static X-ray machine. The irradiation procedure was executed at the Radiology Department of Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi-Nigeria The absorbed dose was quantified through thermoluminescent dosimetry technique, while the attenuation was computed as a function of both thickness and density, emphasizing the interrelations among absorbed dose, thickness, and density. The study encompassed the treatment of various Dioscorea rotundata species, employing both fertilized and unfertilized specimens, followed by their exposure to X-ray irradiation. The outcomes of the study demonstrated a negative correlation between absorbed dose and attenuation, signifying that increased doses resulted in decreased attenuation. Furthermore, a notable inverse relationship was identified between attenuation and thickness, indicating that more substantial Dioscorea rotundata specimens manifested lower attenuation. The research also uncovered a robust positive correlation between density and attenuation, suggesting that materials with greater density exhibited enhanced attenuation properties. These findings possess significant implications for the application of X-ray irradiation in the domains of food preservation and radiation therapy, emphasising the necessity for further inquiry into the mechanisms that govern attenuation within biological materials. The conclusions derived from this investigation can be leveraged to refine X-ray irradiation protocols aimed at augmenting the shelf life and quality of Dioscorea rotundata.