Articles tagged with Radioactivity
Researchers have discovered bacteria that can survive in highly alkaline conditions expected in radioactive waste disposal sites and use isosaccharinic acid as a food source. These microbes may prevent the release of toxic radionuclides into the environment, offering a potential solution for safe nuclear waste disposal.
Experts from around the world will participate in a simulated nuclear inspection in Jordan to prepare for Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) on-site inspections. The exercise aims to refine and test monitoring techniques, ensuring scientists are ready to investigate possible nuclear explosions.
A group of Russian astrophysicists have detected the formation of radioactive cobalt during a supernova explosion, confirming a corresponding theory. The discovery was made using data from the INTEGRAL gamma-ray orbital telescope and indicates that about 60% of the Sun's mass was emitted as radioactive cobalt.
Researchers have created a small, portable and inexpensive radiation detection device that can provide information on radiation levels and type, helping people understand the risks associated with it. The new system, called MiniSpec, is expected to be commercially available for under $150.
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a faster method to create 18F radiotracers, which are used to detect and track certain diseases in patients. The new method avoids harsh conditions that scramble the placement of chemical bonds, resulting in improved efficiency and accuracy.
Researchers at Liverpool University are developing new sensors to detect and measure nuclear radiation in the environment, aiming to locate radioactive sources with greater accuracy and sensitivity. The goal is to monitor sites, prevent releases, and support safe nuclear facility operation, with a focus on improving monitoring and cont...
Research finds radiation contamination hinders plant matter decomposition, leading to dry detritus buildup and increased wildfire hazard. Slower decomposition also reduces nutrient supply for plants, affecting tree growth near the Chernobyl site.
Researchers detected early evidence of Alzheimer's disease using brain scans and found that those with positive scans had a faster rate of decline on memory, language, and reasoning over three years. This biomarker could help clinicians better evaluate and treat patients at risk for cognitive decline.
The NuSTAR mission has produced the first map of high-energy X-ray emissions from a supernova remnant, revealing details about the core explosion and its effects on the surrounding gas and dust. The observations provide new insights into the fundamental physics of nuclear explosions and their role in creating life's essential elements.
Researchers identified 17 microalgae and aquatic plants capable of removing radioactive contaminants, including cesium, iodine, and strontium. These plant strains could potentially be used to decontaminate highly radio-polluted water in the Fukushima area.
Researchers from Curtin University found natural radioactivity in DNA can alter molecular structures, creating new molecules that do not belong to the four-letter alphabet of DNA. This could lead to genetic mutations by confusing DNA replication mechanisms.
The University of Bristol has developed a large semi-autonomous drone called the ARM system to provide visual and thermal monitoring of radiation after nuclear material releases. The system can detect radiation and prevent exposure to response crews, improving safety in disaster response scenarios.
Researchers have designed a highly sensitive nanosensor using graphene oxide to detect extremely low levels of uranium and plutonium in nuclear waste water. The discovery has significant implications for identifying potential leaks and ensuring environmental and human health safety.
Researchers at RIKEN have provided evidence for a new nuclear 'magic number' in the unstable calcium isotope 54Ca, which has 34 neutrons. This discovery challenges the traditional understanding of atomic nuclei and sheds light on the behavior of highly unstable nuclei.
A Duke University study found elevated levels of radioactivity, salts, and metals in river water and sediments after fracking wastewater discharge. Radioactivity levels were up to 200 times greater in sediment samples collected near the facility than upstream.
Researchers at MU College of Veterinary Medicine have created radioactive nanoparticles that target lymphoma tumor cells, a crucial step toward treating metastasized cancers. The nanoparticles, made with lutetium and gold shells, can deliver radiation to tumors without harming healthy cells.
Researchers found that planets in solar systems with similar stars may be warmer and more dynamic, potentially hosting microbial life. This could expand the habitable zone around those stars, making them more suitable for life.
A promising new approach to treating solid tumors with radiation has been developed, which uses an injectable substance that spontaneously assembles into a radioactive seed after injection. This technique shows great efficacy and minimal toxicity in a mouse model of cancer, providing a useful alternative to existing brachytherapy.
A new study challenges conventional models assessing radiation's impact on human health, revealing a non-linear transfer of radioactive compounds in ecosystems. The research found that levels of these compounds are three times higher in fish-eating species than in non-fish-eating species.
Stanford researchers estimate that radiation from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster may cause 15-1,300 deaths and 24-2,500 cancer cases, mainly in Japan. The study uses a 3-D global atmospheric model to predict radioactive material transport and human exposure.
A new study has found that patients with mild or no cognitive impairment can be identified as at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease through a PET brain scan using a radioactive dye. The study, led by researchers at Duke University Medical Center, shows that the presence of amyloid plaques in the brain can predict future decline.
The Portable Neutron Spectroscope (NSPECT) is a highly sensitive instrument that detects illicit radioactive materials with pinpoint accuracy. The technology, developed by UNH scientists, employs techniques used in NASA's Compton Gamma Ray Observatory to locate nuclear bomb-making material.
The Large Underground Xenon (LUX) detector is a trap set for dark-matter WIMPs, with a titanium bottle holding 350 kilograms of liquid xenon. The new LUX ZEPLIN project aims to increase sensitivity by orders of magnitude.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that catastrophic nuclear accidents are more likely to happen than previously assumed. The study reveals that half of the radioactive caesium-137 would be spread over an area of over 1,000 kilometres away from the reactor, contaminating Western Europe once in 50 years.
Radioactive iodine found in New Hampshire's Mink Brook watershed is a result of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power facility's explosion. The study shows minimal deposition in soil but doubling in stream sediments, with significant dilution expected.
Scientists developed a capsule that can remove more than a dozen radioactive substances from water, milk, and fruit juices. The technology uses nanoparticles to absorb and concentrate radioactive materials, making them safe for consumption.
A new paper by University of Notre Dame researchers describes a method for safely absorbing radioactive ions from nuclear waste streams using the NDTB-1 compound. The team has successfully removed approximately 96% of technetium (99Tc) from nuclear waste in laboratory studies.
Researchers highlight the need for better understanding of how water interacts with damaged fuel and radioactive material release in nuclear accidents. A new paper by Peter C. Burns and colleagues from the University of Notre Dame and others emphasizes the importance of increased research to develop predictive models.
A new study analyzes radioactivity from the Fukushima nuclear power plants, revealing high levels of cesium-137 and iodine-131. While the releases are not a direct threat to humans or marine life, they raise concerns about radiation accumulation in marine sediments.
A new study analyzes radioactivity discharged from the Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear power plants and finds that while levels are high, they pose no direct exposure threat to humans or marine life. However, accumulated radionuclides in marine sediments remain poorly understood.
Researchers found elevated levels of radioactivity in San Francisco Bay area rainwater after the Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant accident, but at non-health-risking concentrations. The study collected samples from March 16th to March 26th and detected above-normal radioactivity starting on March 18th.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory detected radioactive materials from Fukushima in the US, providing insight into the disaster's magnitude. The findings demonstrate huge advancements in nuclear monitoring technology.
Brazilian scientist Heldio Villar advocates for better physics teaching and environmental education on radioactivity and nuclear power generation. This approach could lead to a more informed public and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
A study found a significant increase in use of radioactive iodine after surgery for well-differentiated thyroid cancer, with variation in practice patterns among hospitals. The use was more common in younger patients without comorbidities and those with lower tumor stages.
A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that thyroid cancer treatment varies greatly depending on where patients receive care. Radioactive iodine treatment is being used more frequently overall, but hospital factors play a significant role in its use, accounting for 29% of variation.
Researchers measured a spike in radioactive sulfur in the air, revealing that 400 billion neutrons were released per square meter surface of cooling pools between March 13 and March 20, 2011. The levels reached California coast, but posed no threat to human health.
University of Pennsylvania chemists have made the first molecular binding measurement of radon, a dangerous radioactive gas. The team measured how well radon binds to a molecule called cryptophane, paving the way for future research on its properties and other noble gases.
A novel way to immobilise radioactive forms of iodine using a microwave has been discovered by Professor Neil Hyatt at the University of Sheffield. The method uses Pb5(VO4)3I, a solid material that can safely contain radionuclides like iodine-129, reducing long-term health risks from environmental release.
Professor Richard Wakeford critiques the comparison of Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Station to Chernobyl, highlighting key differences in radiological hazard and Japanese authorities' response. He notes that lessons learned from Chernobyl have guided actions taken in Fukushima, including evacuation zones and iodine tablets.
Researchers analyzed 198 cases of differentiated thyroid cancer patients in Japan and found that delaying treatment beyond 180 days increased mortality risk. The Society of Nuclear Medicine supports maintaining current regulations, citing existing scientific evidence as safe for patients and the public.
Researchers found that radiation exposure led to population declines in birds with orangish plumage, as the pigment pheomelanin consumes antioxidants and diminishes their ability to combat oxidative stress. In contrast, some species with different melanin-based coloration showed positive effects from radiation.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a material that can bind and trap radioactive iodide in drinking water, making it safe for human consumption. The material, which combines hemicellulose and chitosan, can also extract heavy metals from water, providing a sustainable solution for desalination.
Researchers use Closterium moniliferum algae to remove strontium, a major component of nuclear waste, by sequestering it in solid crystals. The algae's ability to differentiate between strontium and calcium can help isolate highly radioactive 'high-level' waste from 'low-level' waste.
The Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) has developed a primary standard for the measurement of short-lived radioactive thoron, allowing for accurate calibration of thoron measuring instruments. This enables the estimation of risks associated with thoron exposure through its progenies.
Scientists report that red mud's high alkalinity and salt content are the main threats to crop growth, not toxic metals or radioactivity. Adding gypsum can reduce alkalinity and accelerate salt removal, recommending long-term monitoring of metal levels in crops.
Researchers have developed Cornell Dots, nanoparticles that can light up cancer cells to aid in diagnosis and treatment. The FDA has approved the first clinical trial of these dots in humans, which will verify their safety and effectiveness in treating melanoma.
Researchers found that 34% of Galician secondary schools have radon levels exceeding the EU's maximum recommended limit of 400 Bequerels/m3. The study emphasizes the need for corrective measures to reduce high radon levels, which can be effectively implemented during building construction.
University of Maryland researchers developed a scheme to detect concealed radioactive material without searching containers one by one. The concept uses gamma-ray emission from the material ionizing the surrounding air, facilitated by high-power, coherent terahertz or infrared radiation.
Researchers developed a new radiotracer, florbetapir F18, to distinguish between Alzheimer's disease patients and healthy volunteers on brain scans. The compound has a longer half-life than previous options, allowing for more widespread use and potential applications in diagnosing dementia and tracking disease progression.
A Missouri University researcher is studying sulfate-reducing bacteria that can convert toxic uranium into nearly insoluble uraninite, reducing contamination and environmental costs. The bacteria's ability to cleanse water is being explored, with potential applications for heavy metal pollution from storage tanks and industrial waste.
Researchers at Monash University discovered that early meteorites' radioactive nuclei could have originated from a nearby giant star. The presence of these nuclei affects the evolution of planetary systems and the origin of Earth's water.
The American Association of Physicists in Medicine meeting will explore ways to minimize radiation dosage in children, adults, and health professionals. Studies have shown that lower doses can be effective in detecting abnormalities, reducing the risk of cancer among medical professionals.
Researchers at Duke University discovered that ancient groundwater in Jordan's Disi aquifer contains up to 20 times the safe level of radiation, threatening long-term human consumption. To make it safe, experts recommend diluting or treating the water with technologies like ion exchange and desalination.
New findings show that marine life closest to unexploded bombs from WWII-era vessel USS Killen have high levels of carcinogenic materials. Data gathered since 1999 indicates a significant correlation between the proximity of corals, sea urchins, and other marine species to munitions and elevated cancer rates among local residents.
Researchers have developed a novel technique using photoacoustic tomography (PAT) and gold nanocages to noninvasively image sentinel lymph nodes (SLN) in breast cancer patients. This method reduces the need for invasive surgical biopsies and minimizes patient radiation exposure, offering a promising alternative for cancer diagnosis.
Researchers found no radioactive signals in recent ice core samples from the Naimona'nyi glacier, suggesting that it has not accumulated new ice since 1944 and posing a threat to water supplies for half a billion people in Asia. The absence of these signals makes it challenging to date the ice cores and extract climate history.
Sandia scientists train Iraqi professionals to clean up radioactively contaminated sites and safely dispose of radioactive wastes. The program focuses on characterization, cleanup, dismantling nuclear facilities, waste management, and waste disposal at the Al Tuwaitha nuclear complex.
Hospital emergency room doctors and nurses express concerns about radiological event management and patient care after a terrorist attack. They prioritize protecting themselves and loved ones over decontamination protocols, highlighting the need for better preparedness training and guidelines.
Researchers from Case Western Reserve University studied Chernobyl-derived radionuclides in Swedish and Polish soil, finding higher levels of plutonium in Swedish soil. The team's findings help shed light on public health ramifications and differentiate radioactive elements from one-time events like the Chernobyl disaster.
A long-term study of 1,471 patients with ankylosing spondylitis who received repeated intravenous injections of 224Radium found a significantly increased rate of leukaemias, particularly acute myeloid leukaemia, compared to a control group