Efficient sampling of shiitake-inoculated oak logs to determine the log-to-mushroom transfer factor of stable cesium.

Sawdust can be used as an alternative to determine the log-to-shiitake TF of 133Cs. To satisfy the goals of different studies and professionals, we have described two sampling methodologies (Methods I and II) in this paper. In Method I, a composite of eight sawdust samples collected from a log can be used to provide a representative whole-log sample (i.e., wood and bark), whereas Method II allows for the simultaneous sampling of two sets of sawdust samples-one set representing the whole log and the other representing wood only. Both methodologies can greatly reduce the time required for sample collection and preparation.