Irradiating cell samples in an x-ray radiation cabinet--the effect of tube filtration.

The cell irradiation cabinet described is used for creating DNA damage in cell samples in order to study tumourigenesis. The medical research laboratory involved was using the manufacturer's quoted dose rate (32.2 mGy s(-1)) to determine the required exposure time to impart a dose of 10 Gy.

Abdominal CT and the Euratom Directive.

Legislation about the use of ionising radiation within Europe is being more strictly defined. Since the introduction of the Euratom Directive, each member state is obliged to check that the Directive is being implemented and that referrals are appropriate. Against this background there is also increasing concern about the relatively high radiation dose associated with CT.