Improved Radiation Dosimetry/Risk Estimates to Facilitate Environmental Management of Plutonium-Contaminated Sites

Scott, Bobby R. ; Tokarskaya, Zoya B. ; Zhuntova, Galina V. ; Osovets, Sergey V. ; Syrchikov, Victor A., Belyaeva, Zinaida D.

Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Institute

关键词: Management;    Inhalation;    Neoplasms;    63 Radiation, Thermal, And Other Environ. Pollutant Effects On Living Orgs. And Biol. Mat.;    Stimulation;   

DOI  :  10.2172/923839
RP-ID  :  DOE/ER/63657-1
RP-ID  :  FG02-03ER63657
RP-ID  :  923839

美国|英语

来源: UNT Digital Library

【 摘 要 】

This report summarizes 4 years of research achievements in this Office of Science (BER), U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) project. The research described was conducted by scientists and supporting staff at Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute (LRRI)/Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Institute (LBERI) and the Southern Urals Biophysics Institute (SUBI). All project objectives and goals were achieved. A major focus was on obtaining improved cancer risk estimates for exposure via inhalation to plutonium (Pu) isotopes in the workplace (DOE radiation workers) and environment (public exposures to Pu-contaminated soil). A major finding was that low doses and dose rates of gamma rays can significantly suppress cancer induction by alpha radiation from inhaled Pu isotopes. The suppression relates to stimulation of the body's natural defenses, including immunity against cancer cells and selective apoptosis which removes precancerous and other aberrant cells.