A growing energy supply will be needed to meet future demands; thorium offers fewer environmental and human health hazards in its fuel production. DBI has developed innovative concepts to exploit thorium's benefits, including reduced waste and toxicity.
Researchers at NIST have developed a highly sensitive technique called delayed neutron activation analysis to improve the detection of nuclear materials. The technique can detect trace amounts of uranium-235 and plutonium-239 in less than three minutes, making it crucial for homeland security.
Researchers analyzed nuclear hormone receptors in the honey bee genome, finding that they play a role in regulating adult brain growth and behavior. The study also identified a unique gene found only in the bee's compound eye, with potential connections to human eye development.
A new study suggests that increasing nuclear power production by a factor of three to ten could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but comes with significant drawbacks including massive nuclear waste generation and proliferation risks. The study's author emphasizes the need for a complete picture when choosing energy sources.
A recent study assesses the effectiveness of available technologies for detecting nuclear devices at ports, highlighting significant vulnerabilities in current security measures. The authors propose an 11-layer security system and estimate a detection rate of 90% would require substantial investments.
Global security experts address concerns about nuclear terrorism and proliferation following North Korea's nuclear test. Scholars propose strategies to mitigate the growing threat, including cooperation, containment, and non-proliferation measures.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging emphasizes the beneficial aspects of nuclear medicine, a highly effective diagnostic and treatment method. Every major hospital has a nuclear medicine department, performing over 19 million procedures annually, increasing by 15% from four years ago.
A new study has identified a key player in HIV-1's nuclear import process, revealing that host cell tRNA molecules facilitate the entry of the virus's reverse transcription complex into the nucleus. This finding sheds light on the complex mechanisms by which HIV-1 integrates its genetic material into host cells.
Brookhaven National Laboratory researchers are exploring the use of ionic liquids for nuclear fuel reprocessing to mitigate the risk of unintended chain reactions. By incorporating boron-containing ions, these liquid salts can hold up to a hundred times more dissolved plutonium before reaching critical thresholds.
The September volume of The Annals explores the possibility of preventing a catastrophic nuclear terrorist attack by examining historical trends and proposing solutions. Scholars emphasize the need for world leaders to recognize the gravity of this threat and take proactive steps to prevent it.
Researchers created the first 'encyclopedia' of nuclear receptors, revealing their role in regulating reproduction and nutrient metabolism. The study found that certain receptors form networks to control processes such as diet-derived lipid use for energy.
At SNM's 53rd Annual Meeting, nearly 2,000 scientific and technologist abstracts were presented on various topics including cardiology, neurology, oncology, pediatrics, infectious disease, and more. The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging also recognized individuals with named awards, lectures, and honors.
Researchers recreated quark-gluon plasma at RHIC, studying matter in its earliest form and gaining insights into the universe's evolution. The project also improves nuclear equipment training for young researchers, with applications in cancer radiotherapy and material analysis.
Researchers used a supercomputer to calculate interactions among neutrons and protons from quark and gluon properties, providing insight into how nuclear forces emerge. This breakthrough paves the way for understanding how finely tuned the universe is and could reveal essential information about carbon-based life.
A large cohort study found that statin users had a significantly lower risk of developing age-related nuclear cataract compared to non-users. The odds of developing nuclear cataract were 40% lower in statin users after adjusting for other factors, such as smoking and diabetes.
Daniel Guarasci, a clinical assistant professor at State University of New York at Buffalo, has been honored with the SNMTS Outstanding Educator Award. He translates complex information into understandable language for students, positively influencing nuclear medicine technology students.
Alexander Gottschalk, a Michigan State University professor, received the 2006 Benedict Cassen Prize for his groundbreaking research in nuclear medicine. He made significant contributions to the field, including dynamic camera studies of the brain and heart using technetium-99m.
Researchers have developed a technology that can reduce imaging time for cardiac stress/rest tests by 50% without compromising image quality. This innovation allows for increased patient comfort and improved throughput in nuclear medicine departments, enabling more patients to be scanned without additional floor space or equipment.
The Salk Institute researchers created a cell-free system to study the insertion of nuclear pore complexes into the nuclear membrane. Using advanced imaging tools, they observed the formation of nuclear membranes and pores within an hour.
A study in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology found that physical activity, even minor exercises like turning a page or shoveling snow, can impact PET scan results and lead to false positives. To minimize this effect, patients should avoid excessive muscle activity 48 hours before scanning and inform their technologist.
Researchers at Imperial College London suggest that photovoltaics could match and exceed current nuclear output by 2023, with potential to produce 12 gigawatts of electricity. The UK's decision to halt solar panel installations is attributed to a pro-nuclear bias in scientific and government establishments.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded $30,000 in grants to three institutions in China and India. The SNM/GE Healthcare Visiting Physician/Scientist Program Grant will cover travel and per diem costs for a one- or two-week visit to lecture, train, and consult on molecular and nuclear imaging.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded $75,000 in grants to support innovative pilot projects in molecular imaging/nuclear medicine research. The grants will fund research projects focused on cancer diagnosis and treatment response, including the use of existing radiotracers for new applications.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has awarded a $25,000 grant to aid in the development of new pilot projects focused on molecular imaging and nuclear medicine for cancer diagnosis and treatment response. The grant will support research led by Dr. Yu at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
A recent poll suggests that over half of the British public would accept new nuclear power stations to combat climate change, but most prefer renewable energy sources and energy efficiency. The survey highlights a need for balance in energy policy, with 63% supporting a mix of nuclear and renewables.
Scientists have successfully developed a proof-of-concept for Altered Nuclear Transfer (ANT), an alternative to somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) that enables the creation of genetically altered embryos without implantation. The method uses RNA interference to disable genes in donor nuclei, producing stem cells with disabled Cdx2 fu...
The SNM/GE Healthcare Visiting Physician/Scientist Program Grant will provide educational enrichment in China and India through one- to two-week visits. Clinical centers, hospitals, academic institutions can apply for funding to support nuclear medicine/molecular imaging training and consulting.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new nuclear fuel that conducts heat better than conventional fuels, promising to be safer and last longer. The fuel is made by interlacing uranium oxide with beryllium oxide, which increases thermal conductivity by 50%, reducing the risk of catastrophic accidents and allowing for more e...
Yates received $3,000 and a certificate, as well as covered travel expenses to the meeting, in recognition of his research in nuclear chemistry and radiochemistry. A five-day symposium will be held at the 2006 spring meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in Atlanta.
A case-control study involving 445 men found an association between cumulative cosmic radiation dose and nuclear cataract risk among commercial airline pilots. The odds ratio was 3.02 for pilots compared with nonpilots, indicating a potential causative factor in nuclear cataracts.
Researchers at Purdue University have confirmed findings by Rusi Taleyarkhan, using a tabletop device to produce nuclear fusion reactions through the use of ultrasound. The experiment produced neutrons in the range of 2.5 MeV and tritium, providing evidence for thermonuclear fusion.
Jan Winn, associate professor at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, has been honored with the Outstanding Educator Award by the Society of Nuclear Medicine Technologist Section. She is praised for her ability to explain complex concepts and incorporate new information into her classes.
Researchers have made advances in nuclear medicine, providing alternatives to traditional chemotherapy treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients. The new treatments showed improved response rates and durations, exceeding those following chemotherapy, and offer a personalized dose option.
Researchers propose Assured Nuclear Fuel Services Initiative (ANSFI) to provide nuclear fuel services to countries without enrichment capabilities. The initiative aims to prevent proliferation by making it economically attractive for countries to join, reducing the risk of weapons development.
A new nickel-based alloy with added gadolinium has been verified as safe for the disposal of spent nuclear energy fuel. The alloy can be fabricated in large quantities using conventional techniques and has a higher neutron-absorption capacity than borated stainless steel.
A recent study by Sergei Sokol and colleagues reveals that the Wnt signalling protein Dishevelled (Dsh) has a critical role in the nucleus to respond to certain Wnt signals. In contrast, nuclear localisation is not required for its function in non-canonical signaling pathways.
Physicists at NIST recreate key process for nuclear energy production in dense stars using ultracold crystals. The experiments may help study nuclear fusion as an energy source and demonstrate a new method for modeling dense stellar objects.
Researchers at Purdue University have improved nuclear reactor safety codes by enhancing their simulation capabilities. The new codes better predict what happens during severe accidents, allowing for more accurate plant designs and reduced risk of meltdowns.
The Journal of Nuclear Medicine Supplement offers a comprehensive overview of radionuclide therapy, including its applications in thyroid cancer, lymphoma, and other diseases. The supplement highlights the growing importance of nuclear medicine in patient care and provides insight into emerging trends and technologies.
High levels of radiation from thyroid treatment can trigger homeland security detectors, which are now more common with increased sensitivity. Hospitals should develop documentation guidelines for patients undergoing nuclear medicine procedures to minimize this risk.
Researchers analyzed a sample from Gabon's natural nuclear chain reaction site and found how the reactor operated in a 30-minute cycle. The study also revealed the role of alumophosphate as the system's waste absorber, providing insights into safer nuclear reactor operations.
Scientists have developed a method to re-engineer nuclear receptors, allowing them to bind to specific small molecules. The technique enables the detection of common drugs, chemical weapons, and other important molecules. By hijacking cellular machinery, researchers can create new sensing mechanisms.
The Idaho National Laboratory's (INEL) RELAP5-3D training module aims to enhance nuclear reactor safety worldwide. The five-DVD set includes a Russian translation, allowing students in countries like Slovakia and Lithuania to develop independent safety thinking.
Loewen, an INEEL scientist, has been selected for a congressional fellowship to share his knowledge of nuclear science and technology with a member of Congress. The fellowship aims to bring a knowledgeable view of nuclear matters to Congress and provide a resource for Congress in science and engineering.
Researchers have discovered a method to generate nuclear reactions using sound waves and tiny bubbles, supporting the development of an inexpensive 'tabletop' device. The process creates conditions comparable to the interior of stars, with temperatures reaching 10 million degrees Celsius.
Los Alamos is leading reactor design for the JIMO mission, which would orbit icy moons to study their makeup and potential for sustaining life. The lab is developing key technologies such as nuclear fuel, beryllium components, and diagnostic instruments for a safe and reliable space reactor.
A study of 1,036 women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) diagnosed at age 40 or older found that those with high-nuclear-grade lesions had a higher risk of invasive cancer recurrence. Women treated by lumpectomy alone who experienced initial palpation-detected lesions also faced a greater risk of recurrence.
Researchers found correlations between cellular features and cancer development in prostate and ovarian cancers. Prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia may be a significant target for prevention strategies.
Two researchers, Bahcall and Davis, will share an award for their groundbreaking work on neutrino physics, a field that revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Dr. Sack will receive an award for his crucial role in ensuring the reliability of nuclear weapons, thereby contributing to national security.
A recent study has found that 18F-FDG PET scans are more accurate than CT scans in predicting post-therapy Hodgkin's disease relapse. The diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG PET was 92%, while CT results were only correct in 56% of cases.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine has announced an image that represents a significant advance in achieving high throughput in PET scanning without sacrificing quality. The image showcases technology such as 3D-LSO PET/CT, which could decrease whole-body scan duration substantially, benefiting nuclear medicine professionals and patients.
Dr. Barry Siegel is being recognized for his pioneering work in nuclear medicine, including the use of positron emission tomography (PET) in cancer detection and tumor staging. With over 220 publications to his credit, Dr. Siegel's contributions have significantly impacted the field of nuclear medicine.
The new center will conduct basic nuclear science research and partner with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to acquire specific data for the DOE's scientific and engineering effort to maintain the nation's nuclear weapons. The partnership aims to engage faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students in nuclear science research.
A new virtual mockup at Penn State has shown promise in reducing construction costs by enabling more efficient scheduling. Experiments with experienced superintendents and students found that the interactive method saved up to 33% of time.
The University of California, San Diego's IGCC will establish a six-year program for training Ph.D. students in nuclear threats and public policy issues. The program aims to address the scarcity of experts in these areas, particularly following the retirement of Cold War-era strategic thinkers.
The UGA Center for International Trade and Security has received over $3 million in grants to conduct research on preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. The center will examine international efforts to control the spread of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons.
The conference emphasized the need for collaborations among government, industry, and academia to address nuclear education and R&D needs. Key action items include developing better secondary-school curriculum, expanding joint outreach at high schools and community colleges, and attracting young women and minorities to the field.
Seismologists have made significant progress in identifying violations of the nuclear test ban treaty by analyzing technical characteristics of seismic signals. Nearly all questionable events since 1995 have been identified as nuclear explosions, chemical explosions, earthquakes, or mine collapses.
The Big Ten university consortium is enhancing its research and training reactors to improve nuclear education and infrastructure. The four universities will share $1.97 million in funding to design the next generation of nuclear research facilities.
The US Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory has developed a small, portable neutron detector that can detect hidden nuclear weapons and materials. The device uses a wafer of gallium arsenide coated with boron or lithium to detect neutrons, producing a cascade of charged particles that is easy to detect.