Interface dosimetry for electronic brachytherapy intracavitary breast balloon applicators.

In this study, we evaluate the attenuation of the dose due to barium-impregnation in the region between the surface of an electronic brachytherapy (EBT) balloon applicator for accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) and the prescription point at 1 cm depth in tissue. To perform the study, depth dose curves were calculated using a general purpose multi-particle transport code (FLUKA) for a range of balloon wall thicknesses with and without barium impregnation. Numerical data were verified with experimental readings using a parallel plate extrapolation ionization chamber for different wall thicknesses.

Accurate analysis of tumor margins using a fluorescent pH Low Insertion Peptide (pHLIP).

The recurrence of certain cancers remains quite high due to either incomplete surgical removal of the primary tumor or the presence of small metastases that are invisible to the surgeon. Near infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging might improve surgical outcomes by providing sensitive, specific, and real-time visualization of normal and diseased tissues if agents can be found that discriminate between normal and diseased tissue and define tumor margins. We have developed a new approach for revealing tumor borders by using NIR fluorescently labeled pH Low Insertion Peptide (pHLIP) and have created a computational program for the quantitative assessment of tumor boundaries.