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Large medical center reduces CT scans and patient radiation exposure through a simple, educational intervention

A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that a simple educational intervention and routing patients to V/Q scanning or CTPA based on chest X-ray results significantly reduced CT scan usage and radiation exposure. The medical center saw a 20% reduction in radiation dose from 8.0 mSv to 6.4 mSv.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJan 21, 2010

Ghost remains after black hole eruption

Astronomers observe a high-energy apparition, known as an X-ray ghost, lingering around a supermassive black hole in the Chandra Deep Field-North. The source, HDF 130, is 10 billion light years away and existed 3 billion years after the Big Bang.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 28, 2009

'Hidden' Van Gogh painting revealed

A new technique has successfully revealed a hidden portrait of a woman behind Vincent van Gogh's 'Patch of Grass'. The method, using synchrotron radiation induced X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, allowed researchers to reconstruct the concealed painting in unparalleled detail.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2008

Many physicians misperceive radiation risks to developing fetuses from X-rays and CT scans

A study of 273 family physicians and obstetricians found that many doctors overestimated the risk of major fetal malformations from X-rays and CT scans. Most diagnostic imaging exams result in less than 50 mGy of radiation exposure to the fetus, dispelling a misconception that can lead to unnecessary anxiety and terminations.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMay 18, 2004

Experimental microbeam radiation therapy may offer improvement over traditional radiation treatments

Researchers have developed a new radiation therapy technique that shows significant improvement over traditional methods in treating brain tumors in infants. The treatment uses high-intensity synchrotron sources to confine x-rays to extremely narrow slices, resulting in reduced damage to surrounding tissue.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalCellular and Molecular Biology·DateJul 2, 2001

Weizmann institute scientists capture first-ever 3D visualization of molecules breaking apart when exposed to x-rays

Researchers visualize radiation-induced breakage of specific chemical bonds in protein, revealing a highly specific phenomenon. The findings have direct implications for improving data collection using X-ray crystallography and developing pharmacological means to protect against radiation damage.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2000

New Device Helps Reduce Radiation Exposure For Patients

A new device has been developed to protect patients from radiation exposure during CT scans, with significant reductions in breast and thyroid radiation exposure reported. The reusable protective garment is expected to cost less than $30, making it a potential game-changer for individuals at risk of increased lifetime breast cancer risk.

SourcePenn State·JournalRadiology·DateNov 26, 1997