Publication Date

1959

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Bennett, Jack

Degree Name

M.S. (Master of Science)

Legacy Department

Department of Education

LCSH

Iodine--Isotopes; Thyroid gland

Abstract

The introduction of isotopic tracers into biochemistry and physiology has mads possible a direct experimental approach to many types of problems which previously were in the province of the philosopher rather than the experimental scientist. The results obtained from experiments with the heavy stable and the radioactive isotopes of the elements of biological importance have brought about a revolution in the ways of thinking of investigators In these fields. The new technique has in turn given rise to its own specialized vocabulary, with which the student must become familiar for a clear understanding of the literature. Many of the early studies with isotopic tracers were of a descriptive nature rather than an analytical one. With increasing familiarity with the potentialities of the technique, the emphasis has been increasingly on the use of isotopes to elucidate mechanisms. This is particularly the case In investigations on intermediary metabolism. As a result of this type of experiment, new concepts have arisen and become firmly established, displacing the speculations of an earlier day. A brief account of the elements of nuclear physics and radioactivity and of the principles of measurement of both the heavy stable and the radioactive isotope has been included, for the sake of completeness. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the principles involved in the use of isotopic tracers, to describe therapeutic use of radioactive Iodine on the thyroid gland, and to evaluate its diagnostic applications.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references (pages 67-[72])

Extent

[iv, 72] pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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