2015-08-21
450
An introductory part
The article/text is entitled “ Particle physicists join battle against cancer”.
The author of the article/text is indicated as Edwin Cartlidge.
The source the information is taken/copied from is also known. It is Physics World, June 2005.
The problem of the article is outlined in the introductory phrase given in bold type. It deals with activities that particle physicists are doing in the field of cancer treatment.
Basic contents
Even at the very beginning the author mentions the fact that some new technologies were developed by particle physicists for medical applications. This makes us understand the importance of the big professional meeting the authors speaks about further. This gathering of about 130 physicists and healthcare professionals was held in London to discuss what they called “ the future of medical imaging and radiography”. The participants focused mostly on what applied physics can do to diagnose and treat cancer. The potential of physics in improving cancer cure rates in the nearest future is stressed by Alan Horwich, who directs clinical research in London. He gives some annual statistics about cancer cases in the UK and also informs about the latest improvements in radiotherapy.
The author goes on talking about breakthroughs in medical imaging These include positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed X-ray tomography and molecular imaging. Besides, linear accelerators are also used for the same purpose.
Another expert, Nathan Hill, involved in industrial coordination, speaks about collaboration between academics and industry as well as some projects set up already in the field of healthcare.
Among other specific applications discussed at the meeting the statistical analysis used to improve image quality, a hand-held gamma camera for cancer diagnosis, the use of artificial neural networks and the development of a microstrip dosimeter are also enlisted.
Conclusion
The article/text is quite informative and may be of special interest for people involved both in applied physics and practical medicine. Really specific medical terms are few and this makes the article/text easy to read and understand.
Read text 2.
