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Advances in nuclear medicine technology reduce radiation exposure, shorten scan times

Physics World

CT-free PET reduces radiation dose. But the CT scan performed alongside to obtain attenuation maps can deliver a substantial radiation dose, negating these low-dose benefits. The lutetium in the scintillator contains a small amount – less than 3% – of the radioisotope 176 Lu, which emits background radiation during the scan.

Radiation 108
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Introducing the non-radiating antenna

Physics World

An international team of physicists has created what might seem like a contradiction in terms: a non-radiating source of electromagnetism. Maxwell’s equations tell us that accelerating charges radiate energy in the form of electromagnetic waves. cm above the non-radiating source prototype.

Radiation 145
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Terahertz radiation drives compact ultrafast electron diffractometer

Physics World

The team, led by Dongfang Zhang and Franz Kärtner at the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science in Hamburg, created their instrument by compressing bunches of electrons to ultra-short durations, using millimetre-wavelength terahertz radiation. Laser combo opens up futuristic terahertz technology. Terahertz manipulation.

Radiation 143
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Monochromatic X-ray method promises dramatic cut in radiation dose

Physics World

A technology called monochromatic X-ray imaging could reduce radiation dose per mammogram by a factor of five to 10 times, according to a research review published in the European Journal of Radiology. cm thick breast phantom acquired using monochromatic X-rays at a radiation dose of 0.55 © AuntMinnieEurope.com. mGy (bottom).

Radiation 139
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Novel brachytherapy device treats eye cancer with intensity-modulated radiation

Physics World

The device, designed by John Monro III, managing director of Montrose Technology Inc, and simulated by Medich’s research group, delivers a more conformal treatment to ocular tumours than conventional brachytherapy approaches. The device would also shorten treatment from one to two weeks to less than 10 minutes. What is brachytherapy?

Radiation 145
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Terahertz radiation is created using semiconductor surface states

Physics World

A highly efficient way to convert optical photons into terahertz radiation has been developed by researchers in the US and Germany. Terahertz radiation falls between infrared light and microwaves in the electromagnetic spectrum and has a range of potential applications including security scanning and medical imaging.

Radiation 125
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Carbon nanotubes help space-bound electronics resist radiation damage

Physics World

As space missions venture ever further afield, spacecraft will inevitably be exposed to greater amounts of cosmic radiation that can damage or even destroy their onboard electronics. Cosmic radiation is ionizing radiation made up of a mixture of heavy ions and cosmic rays (high-energy protons, electron and atomic nuclei).

Radiation 119