Researchers have created nanoscale atomic generators that selectively destroy cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. The generators use radioactive actinium to produce potent alpha particles that kill cancer cells, offering a new hope for treating various types of cancer.
Researchers found that prostate cancer patients who underwent seed implantation (brachytherapy) experienced more urinary, sexual, and bowel problems compared to those treated with high-quality conformal external-beam radiation. The procedure's invasive nature may contribute to the higher side effects.
The MilliWave Viscometer measures viscosity in molten materials, indicating chemistry and quality. It enables feedback control, maximizing waste loading and improving efficiency in glass production, with significant economic impact on environmental clean-up efforts.
A new approach reduces lymph node removal in breast cancer patients, reducing surgical trauma and complications. The technique uses a radioactive tracer to locate the sentinel node, allowing for targeted biopsy and minimizing false negatives.
A new technology, InStreem™, has been successfully demonstrated at the George DeRuyter Dairy in Washington state, reducing odors and solids in waste lagoons. The system converts existing lagoons into extended aeration systems, establishing conditions favorable for both aerobic and anaerobic degradation of wastes.
A new trial found that a radioactive compound called MIBG can not only image but also help kill neuroblastoma tumors. In the Phase I trial, 11 children with advanced neuroblastoma had positive responses and few side effects when treated with MIBG combined with chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant.
University of Michigan professor Rodney Ewing argues that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's method for assessing the Yucca Mountain site's safety is flawed due to large uncertainties. He proposes a more comprehensive approach by evaluating independent barriers, such as canisters and rock layers, to ensure the site's long-term safety.
Scientists have identified a class of ceramic materials that may safely contain radioactive waste for long-term storage, featuring disordered atomic structures. The fluorite-type complex oxides show promise as radiation-proof materials, warranting further development for containing nuclear wastes.
The FDA has approved a new cancer treatment using microscopic glass beads that deliver localized radiation to liver tumors. The treatment involves injecting radioactive glass beads into the liver, where they kill malignant cells with minimal side effects.
A study of 31 prostate cancer patients found that quality of life returns to normal within a year following brachytherapy, with urinary symptoms disappearing. The treatment was compared to other options like removal of the prostate or standard radiation therapy, which carry higher risks of decreased sexual function and bowel problems.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that most household members were exposed to significantly less radiation than the government allows. The study's findings suggest that outpatient care for thyroid cancer patients is safe and poses minimal risk to those around them.
Cornell researchers are developing an enzyme-based process to convert biomass waste into auto fuel, offering a cheaper alternative to oil. The process breaks down plant fibers into fermentable sugars using thermophilic bacteria enzymes.
Physicist Jacquelyn Yanch has devised a new method to combat severe rheumatoid arthritis by injecting boron compounds and exposing joints to neutron beams, killing the synovium lining. Early results on rabbits are promising, but human trials are still needed.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have discovered that microorganisms can break down urea and promote the formation of calcite, trapping radioactive strontium-90. This process could be used to contain contaminant until it decays away, potentially providing a cheaper and safer alternative to surface extraction.
Researchers at INEEL are developing a method to trap strontium-90 in calcite crystal, effectively removing it from groundwater. By stimulating naturally occurring bacteria to hydrolyze urea, they aim to increase the pH and facilitate mineral formation.
Scientists discovered that microorganisms in basalt rock can reduce toxic hexavalent chromium to less toxic forms, especially in the presence of volatile organic compounds. The researchers found that certain bacteria, such as Arthrobacter oxydans, play a key role in this process.
The University of Cincinnati researchers have created a novel microsensor for monitoring radioactive and hazardous wastes in the Hanford nuclear facility. The sensor offers three-way selectivity and high sensitivity, allowing it to detect compounds at the nanomolar level.
INEEL researchers develop polyphosphazene membranes for efficient chemical separation and waste minimization, offering stability up to 300 degrees Celsius. The hybrid membrane combines organic and inorganic molecules for improved durability and versatility.
A nonradioactive substitute for 'screamingly radioactive' storage tanks has been developed to aid in nuclear waste clean-up, potentially saving hundreds of millions of dollars. The synthetic sludge mimics the deadly sludge found in underground nuclear waste storage tanks and can be handled safely by lab workers.
Researchers suggest that a rare radioactive isotope found in deep-sea sediments may be evidence of a nearby supernova. The explosion could have caused a 'cosmic-ray winter' leading to mini-extinctions about 5 million years ago, with effects still detectable today.
Researchers are exploring using tiny amounts of radioactive material to power microscopic devices, improving medical equipment, environmental management, and automobiles. The goal is to capture the natural decay of radioactive material and convert it into a power source, without the use of nuclear reactions.
The use of depleted uranium weapons by US and British forces in the Balkans threatens the health of soldiers on both sides, as well as civilians. The radioactive dust created by these weapons can cause cell damage, increase cancer risk, and pose a threat to kidneys.
The Decontamination, Decommissioning, and Remediation Optimal Planning System (DDROPS) simulates facility decontamination and waste minimization. This software optimizes cutting and packaging of debris to reduce radiation exposure risk and disposal costs.
Researchers from Idaho National Laboratory are developing tools to monitor water flow and contaminants in the vadose zone beneath the Savannah River Site. They planted soil monitoring equipment to measure water content, tritium concentration, and soil tension, providing valuable information about the vadose zone.
Researchers have compiled a vast collection of gamma-ray spectra, enabling identification of radioactive materials and prediction of decay. The data includes over 315 reference spectra and more than 371 associated decay schemes.
Researchers found that common soil minerals can work with ionizing radiation to break down toxic chlorinated chemicals into simpler compounds. However, this process may produce volatile gases, posing a risk of explosion at storage tanks like Hanford's.
Professor Lynda Warren argues that local residents' opinions are distorted by political rhetoric and underestimated by the industry. She calls for increased transparency and involvement from politicians and companies to address public fears about radioactive waste.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory report a natural process that removes nearly all toxic metals and uranium from polluted soil, successfully cleaning incinerator ash. The patented process uses citric acid and sunlight to separate metal contaminants from radioactive elements, producing a concentrated and stable form.
The special issue of Interdisciplinary Science Reviews explores various aspects of radioactive waste disposal, including geological disposal, natural analogues, and engineered barriers. Leading experts from different fields share their knowledge to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex problem.
Russian scientists are developing a bacterial mixture to break down organic waste from astronauts' underwear, reducing storage issues in space. The disposal unit will process plastic, cellulose, and other waste aboard spacecraft, addressing the acute problem of waste management in space.
Scientists are investigating the hydrogeology of the West Siberian Basin to better track and predict the future path of radioactive waste from nuclear weapons material production. This research aims to inform remediation strategies at three former plutonium production sites, influencing both human health and ecosystem safety.
Researchers found that dissolved humic material can bind radionuclides, speeding contaminant migration. This process has significant implications for existing and future waste facilities, as low levels of humics in groundwater can facilitate transport.
Duke University researchers have developed a new treatment that significantly extends the survival of patients with glioblastoma multiforme, the most malignant brain cancer. The treatment involves injecting antibodies carrying radioactive Iodine-131 directly into the tumor cells, achieving a median survival time of about 56 weeks.
A new technique using electricity instead of chemicals to drive chemical separation processes could greatly reduce waste byproducts at the Hanford nuclear site. The method, being tested for large-scale cleanup efforts, has shown promise in reducing radioactive waste and hazardous byproducts.
Using heat-resistant microbes, researchers can treat waste air and water emissions at temperatures up to 70 degrees Celsius. The new process eliminates the need for cooling, saving companies time and money while reducing environmental impact.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new gold-DNA probe technique that offers high accuracy and speed in detecting genetic and pathogenic diseases. The method uses gold nanoparticles combined with oligonucleotides to detect specific genes linked to diseases, eliminating the need for radioactive materials.
Researchers at Purdue University have been working on phytoremediation, a process that uses plants to collect heavy metals and radioactive waste from polluted sites. By understanding how plants take up and store toxic metals, they aim to develop metal-mining plants that can clean up contaminated soil and water.
A comprehensive international study by Duke University researchers found that waste-to-energy incineration is a competitive alternative only where economic and environmental considerations discourage landfills. Despite improved technology, WTE facilities cannot match conventional power plants in energy outputs or economics.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory will study nuclei in stellar explosions and exotic nuclear structures, answering questions about nuclear physics and astrophysics. The facility provides a resource for scientists from around the world, offering insights into the main constituent of the visible universe.
The University of Massachusetts has introduced an in-vessel composting unit at Tillson Farm, expected to process 10-20 tons of food waste into compost. The system, a self-contained commercial composter, uses a combination of heat, moisture, and air circulation to break down organic waste.