A Texas A&M University-led consortium has been awarded a five-year, $10 million grant to establish the Center for Excellence in Nuclear Training And University-based Research (CENTAUR). The center aims to develop next-generation leaders in low-energy nuclear science. CENTAUR will pursue basic research using accelerators at various inst...
Nuclear power's contribution to US energy is expected to decline over several decades due to a lack of advanced reactor designs and economically viable small modular reactors. Researchers warn that decarbonization efforts will be hindered without significant policy changes.
The US nuclear power sector is expected to vanish in the next few decades due to the aging of large light water reactors and competition from low-cost natural gas. Advanced reactor designs and small modular reactors may not play a significant role in US energy markets either.
A team of biologists has shed light on how lamins maintain the relative positions of DNA segments throughout the nucleus, influencing gene expression. This finding has implications for understanding lamin-associated aging and diseases, including premature aging, neuropathies, heart defects, and organ decay.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging's 65th Annual Meeting showcased advancements in theranostics, quantitative nuclear imaging, and multimodality molecular imaging. Key findings include improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment options for various diseases, highlighting the potential for precision health.
Gambhir's work on multimodality molecular imaging has advanced nuclear medicine and healthcare. He has developed strategies to study gene and cell therapies, and his lab has more than 625 publications and over 40 patents pending.
Richard L. Wahl, MD, has been recognized for his pioneering work in radioimmunotherapy, PET scans, and fusion imaging. His research has significantly contributed to understanding cancer prognosis, treatment response, and the importance of metabolic activity.
A new study finds that the shutdown of two nuclear power plants in Pennsylvania will not significantly impact power prices due to low natural gas prices. The research suggests that efficient natural gas power plants have increased capacity, making it difficult for nuclear power to compete with competitive market outcomes.
A study by Michigan Technological University researchers suggests that more than 100 nuclear weapons in a nation's arsenal can destabilize the country and lead to widespread starvation. The authors argue that maintaining such a large number of nuclear weapons is not only counterproductive but also costly.
Researchers from MIPT and TISNCM developed a new type of nuclear battery using nickel-63 that packs about 3,300 milliwatt-hours of energy per gram, exceeding previous records. The battery achieves a power density 10 times higher than commercial chemical cells, making it suitable for powering small devices.
Scientists have calculated the axial coupling of neutrons with unprecedented precision using supercomputers, paving the way for more accurate nuclear physics predictions. This breakthrough has significant implications for fields like nuclear energy and nuclear weapon detection research.
A new analysis found that construction delays contribute 18% to the costs of building new nuclear power plants, making them more expensive than expected. The study suggests that these extra costs make nuclear projects high-risk investments.
Researchers propose using viruses to restore normal functioning of cells' nuclei, potentially eradicating unwanted effects of aging. Wrinkled nuclear membranes may be responsible for metabolic diseases such as diabetes and fatty liver disease.
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory successfully simulated an atomic nucleus using a quantum computer, demonstrating the ability of quantum systems to compute nuclear physics problems. The team extracted the deuteron's binding energy with high accuracy, despite challenges posed by inherent noise on the chip.
Researchers found that ZFC3H1 helps retain exosome targets in the nucleus, preventing their export to the cytoplasm. This new mechanism involves polyadenylated RNAs accumulating in distinct nuclear foci.
Scientists use satellite radar imaging to pinpoint detonation site and yield of North Korea's latest nuclear test, which caused displacement and subsidence at the Punggye-ri nuclear test site. The research provides a detailed view of the site, including the explosion's impact on the mountain above.
The US will gain better capabilities to respond to a nuclear attack thanks to Penn State's research on nuclear forensics, which will analyze special nuclear materials for unique signatures. The project will enhance national response in the face of a nuclear detonation and contribute to broader applications in nuclear science.
A new study by Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute (SBP) researchers describes how nuclear pore component Nup210 is critical for the survival of circulating CD4+ T cells. The findings identify a new node of T cell receptor signaling and could pave the way for the development of future immunotherapies.
A new study by ICTA-UAB analyzes the impacts of substituting fossil fuels for cleaner energies on lifestyles. The researchers conclude that renewable energy sources must grow at a rate two to three times current projections to maintain net energy per capita.
Researchers at University of Lincoln develop machine learning algorithms for self-learning robots in hazardous nuclear sites, increasing capabilities in waste handling and site monitoring. The project aims to build systems that can adapt to unique radiation conditions using vision-guided robot grasping, manipulation, and cutting.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory found that nuclear power plants can adjust to changing demand for power, enabling the use of more renewable energy. This flexibility can lower electricity costs for consumers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
A Northwestern University research team has developed a new semiconductor device that can detect gamma rays and identify radioactive isotopes at room temperature. The device, made of cesium lead bromide, offers high spectral resolution and can be scaled up for widespread use in biomedical imaging, astronomy, and spectroscopy.
A new RAND Corporation paper warns that AI's potential to encourage risky behavior and undermine strategic stability poses a significant threat to global security. Improved sensor technologies and the rise of first-strike capabilities could erode mutual assured destruction, making nuclear war more likely.
Researchers developed a new method for creating extremely precise clocks using controlled nuclear transitions in thorium-229 nuclei. The frequency of transitions can be increased or decreased by dozens of times, potentially increasing precision by an order of magnitude.
Researchers at MIT have developed a physics-based system to verify the destruction of nuclear warheads, using cryptographic keys in physical form. The new method uses neutron detection and resonance processes to identify authentic warheads, while concealing their designs.
Researchers at PTB have successfully measured some important properties of the thorium-229 nucleus using optical methods, bringing scientists closer to developing an optical nuclear clock. This breakthrough uses laser excitation to monitor the nucleus's behavior and could lead to a more precise atomic clock.
Researchers at ETH Zurich found that ionization delays in molecules can significantly depend on the kinetic energy of both the photoelectron and the nuclei. This study extends the concept of ionization delays introduced for atomic systems, showing that variations can be as large as those with electronic kinetic energy.
Defects in a nuclear receptor, LXRβ, in the brain's dentate gyrus have been linked to autism spectrum disorders. Early changes in neurogenesis of this region may provide an aberrant template for social function circuitry.
Researchers at Colorado State University have demonstrated micro-scale nuclear fusion using a compact laser, achieving record-setting efficiency for generating neutrons. This breakthrough could lead to advances in neutron-based imaging and materials science research.
The Sandia transport triathlon tested the safe transportation of spent nuclear fuel by combining data from three modes of transportation: truck, ship, and train. The test yielded valuable insights into the stresses experienced by fuel rods during routine handling and transportation.
A new study by international researchers has found uranium and other radioactive materials in tiny particles released from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi reactors. These micro-particles could last much longer than previously expected due to their small size, which allows humans to inhale them.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging and the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology have issued joint guidelines for the clinical quantification of myocardial blood flow using Positron Emission Tomography (PET). The guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for the measurement and interpretation of myocardial blood ...
Lassina Zerbo received the 2018 AAAS Award for Science Diplomacy for his efforts to strengthen nuclear test-ban verification. He has led international diplomacy efforts, negotiated data-sharing agreements, and promoted universalization of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.
Researchers create conditions to test theoretical nuclear effect, capturing excited nuclei and gamma rays for the first time. This advance may improve understanding of star formation and creation of star elements.
A Brazilian researcher's study has elucidated the conditions necessary for self-sustaining nuclear fusion in tokamaks. The findings provide crucial information for the successful operation of ITER, a fusion reactor prototype designed to reproduce the sun's energy generation process.
Researchers at Tokyo Tech have developed a new Langevin model that predicts low-energy fission more accurately by accounting for the deformation of nuclear fragments. The four-dimensional model fits empirical data better than previous models and has potential applications in radioactive waste containment and nuclear power generation.
Researchers investigated molecular mechanisms behind squamous cell carcinoma, revealing NUP62's role in regulating ΔNp63α nuclear transport. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining SCC cells' undifferentiated status and proliferation.
Physicists at Mainz University have calculated that neutrino detectors could be useful in certain scenarios for monitoring nuclear waste. A suitable detector could detect if radioactive material had been removed without being documented, and verify the contents of a container without opening it up.
Researchers from Sweden propose a new theory on the Chernobyl disaster, suggesting a nuclear explosion preceded a steam explosion. The theory is supported by observations of debris and weather conditions.
Researchers from the University of Seville have discovered that genes located near nuclear pores contribute to maintaining genome stability. The study found that anchoring DNA to the pore during transcription prevents DNA-RNA hybrids, a natural source of genome instability.
A new nuclear medicine test can identify kidney transplant infection in non-invasive procedures, using positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI). The test has the potential to refine characterization of infectious and inflammatory kidney diseases.
A Dartmouth study finds that nuclear energy programs have not led to an increase in proliferation among participating countries. Despite the technical ability to develop nuclear weapons, countries with energy programs face political obstacles and international scrutiny that counter this risk.
Researchers at Rutgers University have developed an extremely efficient molecular trap that can capture radioactive iodides in spent nuclear reactor fuel, far outperforming existing industrial materials. The material has high porosity and can be recycled and reused, making it a potential game-changer for nuclear waste reprocessing.
Researchers at Jefferson Lab lead development of next-generation software to benefit nuclear physics computation. The project aims to optimize calculations on future supercomputers, enabling better prediction and understanding of QCD at extreme temperatures and densities.
A new molecular trap, MIL-101-Cr, removes nearly all radioactive iodide from used nuclear fuel rods, exceeding current regulations by up to 0.003 percent. The breakthrough could save on fuel costs worldwide, as the new method is cheaper and more effective than existing industrial adsorbents.
Collaborative nuclear medicine and radiology training options are proposed to address evolving practice needs, while an alternative view emphasizes the importance of independent training programs. Innovative theranostics advances in nuclear medicine are highlighted as a result of dedicated training programs.
TSRI researchers studied the interactions between Avandia, a nuclear receptor, and coregulatory protein SRC-2, revealing how DNA binding affects drug potency and receptor shape. This knowledge could lead to designing new antidiabetic drugs with better efficacy and fewer side effects.
Theranostics combines predictive biomarkers and precise therapy to target cancer cells, minimizing side effects. The field is expected to change nuclear medicine from 'nuclear radiology' to true 'nuclear medicine,' with potential for cures.
A new method for detecting strontium in milk has been adapted for use in routine environmental studies. The research group successfully applied the IAEA's emergency method to achieve reliable results at lower detection limits.
Scientists at the University of Basel report that shuttling proteins, known as importins, control nuclear pore function, rather than the other way around. Importin alpha and beta cooperate to open and close the pore like a revolving door.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) has announced the recipients of the 2017-2019 Wagner-Torizuka Fellowship. The two-year fellowship provides extensive training and experience in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging for Japanese physicians in the early stages of their careers. This year's fellows are Sho Mo...
A global network of nuclear forensics experts has developed new analytical techniques to investigate radioactive material intercepts. The latest exercise, CMX-5, involved 20 labs from around the world and tested the capabilities of these new approaches.
The Department of Energy's Office of Science Early Career Research Program has awarded funding to four Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers. The selected researchers will study exotic nuclei, simulate magnetically confined fusion plasmas and investigate the role of symbiotic relationships between plants and microbes.
A new study reveals the US Office of Nuclear Energy's budget history, showing a lack of effective allocation of resources and failure to support innovative research. The researchers recommend a new approach with stricter programmatic discipline and transparent evaluation processes to identify promising reactor concepts.
Researchers successfully performed thermonuclear measurements of nuclear reaction cross-sections in extreme plasma conditions, replicating previous accelerator experiments. This achievement lays groundwork for studying phenomena in stellar interiors, such as plasma electron screening.
A new instrument capable of detecting trace amounts of uranium and other materials will be designed, supported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Nuclear Forensics Research Award program. The instrument will allow for nanoscale imaging of isotopic content in solid samples, with unprecedented sensitivity and spatial resolution.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging recognized Robert E. Henkin, MD, for his 30-year dedication to the field of nuclear medicine, while John M. Hoffman, MD, was honored for his expertise in molecular imaging research and leadership roles in the SNMMI Clinical Trials Network.
The UK's withdrawal from Euratom may threaten the supply of essential medical isotopes, used in some cancer treatments and medical imaging. Professor Martin McKee warns that this could put patients at risk if supplies are interrupted.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging's Technologist Section recognized the work of several award-winning nuclear medicine technologists, including Amanda Abbott, Dusty M. York, Cindi Luckett-Gilbert, Margaret M. Doonan, and Robert A. Pagnanelli, for their contributions to education and service in the field.
Scientists are calculating environmental and human impacts of a potential nuclear war using sophisticated climate models and supercomputers. The team aims to provide a solid scientific analysis of the issues, including impacts on agriculture, food availability, and migration activity.