A recent Baycrest-Sunnybrook pilot study found that low-dose radiation therapy showed remarkable improvements in behavior and cognition within days in individuals living with severe Alzheimer's. The treatment used a CT scanner to deliver low doses of radiation, stimulating the body's natural protection systems to work harder.
The review highlights focused, high-dose radiation's potential to destroy small tumors with minimal impact on surrounding normal tissue. Researchers aim to tailor radiotherapy to optimize benefits and minimize risks through advanced techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy and radiosurgery.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed personalized, 3D-printed shields to shield patients undergoing radiation therapy. The device can reduce tissue injury by up to 15% in the gastrointestinal tract for prostate cancer patients, and by up to 30% in the mouth for head and neck cancer patients.
Researchers analyzed 130 children and found no increased germline mutation rates; instead, DNA double-strand breaks were more pronounced for younger survivors. A second study provided insights into radiation-induced papillary thyroid cancer, revealing radiation dose-related increases in DNA damage.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital develop a new radiation technique that carefully targets tumors while sparing surrounding tissues, reducing inflammation and preserving swallowing function. The study shows promising results in patients with localized lung cancer, with none developing severe esophagitis despite high-dose ra...
A phase 1 clinical trial found that stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is safe for treating patients with multiple metastases. The treatment used precisely targeted beams of high doses of radiation to destroy tumors, reducing damage to noncancerous tissue.
A large-scale study found that people living in areas with high background radiation had a 2.5-year longer life expectancy and lower rates of certain cancers, including lung, pancreatic, colon, and rectal cancer. The researchers suggest re-evaluating the linear no-threshold paradigm for low-dose radiation.
Space radiation poses significant risks to astronaut cardiovascular health, including myocardial remodeling, atherosclerosis, and inflammation. Research highlights the potential of antioxidant treatments, such as vitamin C and spinach, to protect astronauts from space-induced damage.
Researchers at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center identified a new approach combining an anti-psychotic drug, a statin and radiation to improve overall survival in mice with glioblastoma. The triple combination extended median survival 4-fold compared to radiation alone, providing hope for improved treatment options.
A new study reveals that the behavior of p53, a key tumor-suppressor protein, over time determines whether tissues can survive radiation exposure. In vulnerable tissues, p53 levels remain high, leading to cell death, while in more radioresistant tissues, p53 levels oscillate, allowing cells to survive.
Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University successfully measured a spectral line width of less than 0.01 percent using high-precision spectrometry equipment, revealing approximately 8,000 coherently radiating sources in the super-radiant regime.
The BeamSite Cherenkov imaging camera system captures real-time images of the beam directly on the patient, allowing radiation oncologists to verify accuracy of dose and beam delivery. This technology has improved treatment quality, precision, and patient safety during radiation therapy.
Researchers presented two radiation oncology trials that aimed to improve local tumor control in NSCLC patients. One trial found no significant difference in 2-year local-regional tumor progression-free rates between adaptive and standard radiation therapy arms, while another study demonstrated excellent local control rates with dose e...
Dartmouth researchers have developed a method to convert standard linear accelerators to deliver ultra-high-dose rate radiation therapy beams, known as FLASH. The beams have been shown to protect normal tissues from excess damage while maintaining the same treatment effect on tumor tissues.
For older patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, omitting postoperative radiation therapy did not compromise survival or increase risk of distant metastasis. Local recurrence rates were higher in those who didn't receive radiation therapy.
A researcher at Indiana University School of Medicine has received a $2.9 million grant to develop a drug that could make radiation therapy more effective in treating lung cancer and other solid tumors.
A new study has identified two types of bacteria that can provide protection against radiation exposure by increasing production of propionate and tryptophan. These metabolites were found in leukemia patients undergoing radiotherapy, suggesting a potential alternative to expensive and potentially harmful treatments.
The study found that patients with a radio-sensitive genotype have better survival with standard radiation therapy, while those with the resistant genotype fare better with high dose radiotherapy. High dose radiotherapy is associated with shorter survival times among patients with the sensitive genotype.
Researchers at UCI and CHUV/UNIL have developed a new cancer treatment that uses ultra-high dose rate radiation therapy to eliminate brain tumors without causing significant side effects. This breakthrough technique, known as FLASH-RT, has shown promising results in mice and has the potential to be used for a range of cancer types.
The number of radiation therapy facilities in the US has grown by 17% over 15 years, with a disproportionate increase in urban areas. Despite this growth, 4.5% of the population lives more than 50 miles from a treatment center, highlighting access disparities.
A randomized phase III trial found that image-guided intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) improves long-term toxicity-free survival and reduces gastrointestinal side effects in women with cervical cancer. The study showed a significant reduction in moderate-to-severe gastrointestinal side effects compared to 3D-CRT, with improv...
A randomized phase III trial found that stereotactic radiosurgery reduces cognitive decline without compromising survival for patients with four or more brain metastases. Patients who received SRS had better preserved cognitive function compared to those who received whole-brain radiation therapy.
A new Penn study found administering radiation therapy to multiple myeloma patients waiting for CAR T cells to be manufactured was safe and did not interfere with cellular therapy. Patients who received radiation 34 days or fewer before infusion had similar rates of severe side effects as those who did not receive radiation.
A new study found that adding advanced PET scans to radiation plans for prostate cancer increases disease-free survival rates. After three years, 75.5% of patients treated with the additional imaging were still cancer-free, compared to 63% in the control group.
A randomized phase II/III trial found that SBRT reduced pain in patients with spinal metastases by 35% after three months, compared to 14% for conventional radiation. Patients treated with SBRT also experienced higher satisfaction rates related to financial considerations.
A phase II trial shows similar safety and efficacy with single- and multiple-fraction treatment for patients with limited oligometastases. The study found comparable survival rates, local control rates, and disease-free survival rates between the two treatment groups.
A phase II trial found no statistically significant overall survival differences between dose-intensification radiation therapy (IMRT) and standard-dose radiation therapy with temozolomide treatments. However, MGMT methylation and RPA were predictive of progression-free survival.
A new study from Penn Medicine found that proton therapy reduces the risk of radiation-induced heart diseases in lung cancer patients. Mini-strokes and heart attacks were significantly less common among patients who underwent proton therapy compared to those treated with conventional photon-based radiation therapy.
The new guideline provides options for different treatments to improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Recommendations address patient selection, pelvic radiation treatments, integration with chemotherapy and surgery, and follow-up care.
Researchers developed a novel γ-radiation intensity sensor using polymethylmethacrylate and polyvinyl chloride membranes. The sensor changes color in response to increasing radiation intensity, allowing for quick and easy measurement.
Researchers developed a balloon-based system to study stratospheric radiation over the Tibetan Plateau, providing in situ measurements for the first time. The data helps understand radiation variations and thermal conditions associated with clouds and aerosols during the Asian summer monsoon period.
A multidisciplinary research team found that low-level ionizing radiation degrades superconducting qubit performance. To maintain coherence and achieve practical quantum computing, radiation shielding will be necessary. Researchers emphasize the need to exclude radiation-emitting materials and consider underground experimental setups.
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that delaying radiation therapy for men with unfavorable intermediate-risk or high-risk localized prostate cancer, who are receiving radiation and hormone therapy, is unlikely to impact survival. This flexibility in radiation timing could help patients minimize exposure to COVID-19 by s...
The Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences special issue shares stories about interpersonal skills beyond technical aspects to care for patients during medical imaging and radiation therapy procedures. Guest Editor Sue Robins curated this issue as a learning experience for technologists, therapists, and patients alike.
A new finger-stick test can estimate radiation exposure in mice with high accuracy, using microRNA biomarkers. The test distinguishes between various doses of radiation, including those requiring triage, and could improve acute radiation syndrome diagnosis and treatment.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released its first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for cervical cancer. The guidelines address indications and best practices for external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy in postoperative and definitive settings, including the use of chemotherapy and IMRT.
Researchers developed a thermoluminescent material that responds to UV radiation, overcoming current limitations in personal and environmental UV dosimetry. The new material enables accurate detection of UV exposure and has potential applications in various fields.
Glioblastoma cells acquire radiation resistance by dumping exosomal microRNA miR-603, leading to increased protein production and insensitivity to radiation. This study reveals a new therapeutic strategy for overcoming cancer cell resistance.
Microbeam radiation therapy (MRT) uses high-energy X-ray beams to target tumors while sparing healthy tissue. The research team has identified the optimal energy range and developed a precise measurement detector technique to ensure safety and effectiveness for human treatment.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered a polymer composite material with bismuth trioxide particles that can effectively shield against ionizing radiation while being lightweight and non-toxic.
A new study from North Carolina State University has developed a fast and efficient radiation detector using single-crystal gallium oxide. The detector can monitor X-ray radiation in near-real time, making it suitable for applications such as medical imaging and security.
Researchers at UCLA have found that adding a schizophrenia drug to traditional radiation therapy improved overall survival in mice with glioblastoma. The combination successfully delayed tumor growth and prolonged animal survival by over 200 days.
A new algorithm developed by researchers at the University of Michigan can quickly differentiate between benign and illicit radiation signatures in cargo, enabling cost-effective detectors at borders. The algorithm works even in high-radiation backgrounds and can identify weak signals from plutonium encased materials.
Patients receiving 177Lu-DOTATATE radiation therapy may experience travel delays at U.S. ports of entry due to residual radiation activity; carrying a travel card with treatment information can help alleviate this issue.
This study found that HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) cells exhibit enhanced radiosensitivity and increased cell motility after radiation therapy. In contrast, HPV-negative OPSCC cells show decreased radiosensitivity and reduced cell motility.
A new grant aims to gather evidence on the safest pulse rate for pediatric swallow studies, ensuring both safety and diagnostic accuracy. Research shows that developing cells in children are more susceptible to radiation than mature ones.
A team at Colorado State University used a novel approach to test assumptions in NASA's model predicting health risks from space radiation. They found that the risk exceeds what is considered acceptable, highlighting the need for further research and validation.
Researchers at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center identified a possible new drug, NSPP, that prevents cognitive decline in mice after radiation therapy for brain tumors. The study found the drug did not reduce radiation treatment efficacy.
Researchers found that inhibiting IDO1 protein helps radiation destroy tumor cells while preserving healthy tissue. Combining radiation with the inhibitor increased cell death within tumors and improved protection of healthy tissue.
A new phase II trial found a combination of radiation therapy and pembrolizumab to be effective in treating locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly for patients ineligible for cisplatin chemotherapy. The treatment showed encouraging survival outcomes and acceptable toxicity.
Researchers developed a hydrogel that changes color with radiation exposure, allowing for painless dose monitoring on the skin. The gel is relatively inexpensive and can be used directly on the skin without complex handling.
Thoracic radiation therapy increases fatigue and difficulty breathing in cancer patients, but engaging in physical activity prior to treatment may help improve these symptoms over time. High levels of physical activity are associated with concurrent improvements in fatigue and shortness of breath.
Researchers at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found a condensed five-day radiation regimen to be as effective as traditional five-week treatment in treating soft tissue sarcoma. The new approach showed lower wound complication rates and improved cancer control without increasing side effects.
Researchers at Dartmouth's Norris Cotton Cancer Center have developed a non-invasive way to directly monitor oxygen distributions within cancer tumors during radiation therapy. The method uses specialty cameras and an oxygen probe drug injection to image the distribution of oxygen from within the tumor.
New research from UT Southwestern Medical Center shows how AI can generate optimal treatment plans in near real-time, streamlining the process and reducing delays of up to a week. This can decrease the odds of cancer spreading by 12-14%.
Scientists at TU Wien have created a record-breaking terahertz laser beam that produces extremely efficient and high-intensity terahertz radiation. The technology generates a broad spectrum of terahertz radiation, enabling the creation of short pulses with extremely high radiation intensity.
New study finds low doses of ionizing radiation used in medical imaging create breaks that allow extra bits of DNA to integrate into the chromosome, potentially leading to mutations. The researchers stress that translating these findings to animal models is necessary to determine full effects and impact on patient health.
A new study found that a disrupted biological clock increases the risk of heart disease in mice treated with radiation therapy, highlighting the potential role of protein Bmal1 in protecting the heart. The research could lead to personalized medicine approaches and optimized timing for radiation therapy to minimize side effects.
A new study shows that the 21-gene recurrence score test, commonly used to predict disease recurrence and chemotherapy benefit in breast cancer patients, may also help determine whether radiation therapy is necessary. Patients with intermediate or high scores are more likely to see their cancer return and benefit from radiation.
A study published in JAMA Oncology found that proton therapy is just as effective as X-ray radiation therapy in treating cancer, but causes fewer side effects and lower hospitalization rates. This could lead to improved quality of life for patients and reduced healthcare costs.