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Chemical complexity promises improved structural alloys for next-gen nuclear energy

Designing alloys to withstand extreme environments is a fundamental challenge for materials scientists. Researchers found that exploiting the complexity of equal amounts of up to four different metallic elements can lead to improved radiation resistance. The results reveal significantly reduced defect production and damage accumulation...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2015

Testing the shelf-life of nuclear reactors

A team of researchers has devised a method to rapidly test the structural materials used in nuclear reactors, closely replicating damage caused by high-energy neutrons. The technique uses high-energy ion beams to damage samples of ferritic-martensitic steel, allowing for the development of more resilient components for advanced reactors.

SourceElsevier·JournalScripta Materialia·DateAug 20, 2014

X-ray irradiation at a certain dose alters the neuronal cytoskeleton and cytomechanics

Researchers found that X-ray irradiation damages cortical neurons by altering their cytoskeleton and cytomechanics. The study suggests that heavy ion beams may have a biological advantage over X-rays in protecting normal brain tissue during cranial radiotherapy. This could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 21, 2014

Opening-up the stem cell niche

A team of scientists led by Prof. Claudia Waskow has successfully generated a mouse model that supports human blood stem cell transplantation without irradiation, enabling the study of human blood development in a physiological setting. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment options and disease research for patients with he...

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 11, 2014

Uniformity: The secret of better fusion ignition

Theoretical physicists use numerical simulations to analyze the uniformity of irradiation at thermonuclear fusion reaction, with potential applications to the Orion facility's high-power laser beams. The approach demonstrates a reduction in non-uniformity by 50% and 35% for elliptical and circular intensity profiles respectively.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateOct 11, 2013

Study examines racial/ethnic disparities in cranial CT among children

Research suggests racial/ethnic disparities exist in the use of cranial CT scans among children with minor blunt head trauma, particularly for those at lowest or intermediate risk. Children from white non-Hispanic backgrounds may be more likely to undergo the procedure, while those from black or Hispanic backgrounds have lower odds.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 6, 2012

Highly targeted irradiation as good as whole breast radiotherapy in early stage cancer

A randomized trial found that highly targeted irradiation had equally good results as whole breast radiotherapy in early stage cancer, with a lower risk of adverse effects. The treatment reduced the rate of local recurrence by 0.8% and improved cosmetic outcomes by 18%, making it a potential game-changer for breast cancer patients.

Study shows electron-beam irradiation reduces virus-related health risk in lettuce, spinach

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that electron-beam irradiation can inactivate viruses on leafy greens, reducing the risk of foodborne illness. The research provides quantified data on the reduction in health risks through this technology, which could lead to greater adoption in the fresh produce industry.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Advantages and motivations uncertain behind use of brachytherapy for breast cancer radiotherapy

A study found APBIb use increased from 0.4% to 6.6% between 2000 and 2007, with wide regional disparities and racial/ethnic differences in utilization. The authors suggest unwarranted variation in practice may be present, highlighting the need for further research on APBI effectiveness.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 16, 2011

Women, but not men, who are exposed to radiation therapy as children much more prone to stillbirths or baby death when attempting to have children

A new study published in The Lancet found that women who underwent radiation therapy as children are more likely to experience stillbirths or baby deaths when attempting to conceive. In contrast, no increased risk was found for men exposed to similar levels of radiation. The authors suggest that uterine damage may be the primary factor...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 22, 2010

True properties of carbon nanotubes measured

Carbon nanotubes' true mechanical properties have been measured by Northwestern University researchers using a novel nanoscale material testing system. The results match quantum mechanics predictions and reveal that irradiation can strengthen the structure by forming bonds between shells of the tube.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 15, 2008

Prophylactic cranial irradiation in small cell lung cancer significantly increases survival

Prophylactic cranial irradiation reduces the risk of symptomatic brain metastases and prolongs survival in small-cell lung cancer patients with extensive disease. The EORTC trial results show a significant increase in one-year survival, from 13.3% to 27.1%, after receiving prophylactic cranial irradiation.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 16, 2007