Japanese researchers discovered a radiation protection gene in a small animal named the tardigrade. Source: sciencenews.org Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are resilient organisms able to survive through extreme temperatures, outer space, high pressures, and intense radiation. After decoding the entire genome of the Ramazzottius varieornatus tardigrade, the scientists found a protein that may be key to resisting high amounts of radiation. Named Dsup for Damage Suppressor, the protein protects DNA from being damaged when it is irradiated. In the study, human cultured cells exposed to X-rays had their DNA damaged. When given the ability to produce Dsup, the
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China’s current nuclear safety frameworks effective, but require further development to cope with nuclear growth
A United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expert team visited China to evaluate its nuclear safety in September this year. The team commended the country’s nuclear and radiation safety frameworks as effective. But with rapid nuclear energy growth, China should continue to further develop them. In the meantime, China should adopt the draft Nuclear Safety Act. China currently has 32 nuclear power reactors in operation and there are 24 nuclear power reactors under construction. Full Article
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Energy Department ends inquiry into Idaho radiation exposure
Two years ago, a radiation leak happened at an eastern Idaho nuclear facility, leading to the contamination of nine workers. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the consequences of this event were low and they will not conduct a formal investigation. The agency will continue to monitoring the company’s efforts to improve nuclear safety at the Idaho National Laboratory. Full Article
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Diagnostic reference levels for radiation lowered in Germany
Germany’s Federal Office for Radiation Protection released a statement that nation’s diagnostic reference levels for all X-ray and CT examinations have been significantly reduced. Due to the increase in the efficacy of machines, less radiation is required to produce the same results as before. Depending on the test, radiation levels may drop by 20% to 50%. Full Article
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