Proof-of-Concept For Converging Beam Small Animal Irradiator

The Monte Carlo particle simulator TOPAS, the multiphysics solver COMSOL., and several analytical radiation transport methods were employed to perform an in-depth proof-ofconcept for a high dose rate, high precision converging beam small animal irradiation platform. In the first aim of this work, a novel carbon nanotube-based compact X-ray tube optimized for high output and high directionality was designed and characterized. In the second aim, an optimization algorithm was developed to customize a collimator geometry for this unique Xray source to simultaneously maximize the irradiator’s intensity and precision. Then, a full converging beam irradiator apparatus was fit with a multitude of these X-ray tubes in a spherical array and designed to deliver converged dose spots to any location within a small animal model. This aim also included dose leakage calculations for estimation of appropriate external shielding. The result of this research will be the blueprints for a full preclinical radiation platform that pushes the boundaries of dose localization in small animal trials

Evolution of Ionizing Radiation Research

The industrial and medical applications of radiation have been augmented and scientific insight into mechanisms for radiation action notably progressed. In addition, the public concern about radiation risk has also grown extensively. Today the importance of risk communication among stakeholders involved in radiation-related issues is emphasized much more than any time in the past. Thus, the circumstances of radiation research have drastically changed, and the demand for a novel approach to radiation-related issues is increasing. It is thought that the publication of the book Evolution of Ionizing Radiation Research at this time would have enormous impacts on the society. The editor believes that technical experts would find a variety of new ideas and hints in this book that would be helpful to them to tackle ionizing radiation