Postgraduate studies in radiation biology in Europe.

The present system of radiobiological research in universities and research centres is no longer able to train radiobiologists who have a comprehensive understanding of the entire field of radiation biology including both 'classical' and molecular radiation biology. However, such experts are needed in view of the role radiation protection plays in our societies. No single institution in Europe could now run a 1-year, full-time course which covers all aspects of the radiobiological basis of radiation protection. Therefore, a cooperative action of several universities from different EU member states has been developed and is described herein.

Diagnostic radiology better images--lower dose compromise or correlation? A European strategy with historical overview.

Quality Criteria for diagnostic radiographic images include the definition of necessary image details, performance of the imaging system and appropriate choice of radiographic parameters. Actions have established a framework for the optimisation of these three groups of Quality Criteria. Their evolution, practice and efficacy will be demonstrated for conventional and digital radiology. The link between the Quality Criteria and exposure of the patient and staff will be discussed. The historical follow up of these aspects will appreciate the efforts done all over Europe since the twenties and will reveal the potential for continuously optimising diagnostic radiology in many respects: in day-to-day practice, new technical design and radiological concepts.

Self-incompatibility system of Oenothera organensis for the detection of genetic effects at low radiation doses.

The self-incompatibility system of Oenothera organensis is used to analyze the frequency of S locus mutations induced by low doses (2.5-20 rad) of fast neutrons and x-rays. Th principles and methods of the screening system for detection of low dose effects have been presented. The results show that low doses induced significantly higher frequencies of seeds and seedlings than those produced spontaneously. The analyses of part of the progenies derived from the control and treated series suggested that they were due to revertible mutations. A modified in vitro method of culturing pollinated cut styles has been developed for rapid screening of compatible pollen tubes.

Mentor pollen effects on gametophytic incompatibility in Nicotiana, Oenothera and Lycopersicum.

Attempts were made, through mentor pollen techniques, to overcome self-incompatibility in species belonging to the genera Nicotiana and Oenothera and in a hybrid of Lycopersicum, which are characterized by a gametophytic system of incompatibility. While radiation-killed incompatible pollen did not generate mentor effects in any of the material tested, radiation-killed compatible pollen was found to promote a high level of illegitimate fertilizations by incompatible pollen in N. alata. No evidence was obtained that radiation-killed compatible pollen could induce mentor effects in strictly self-incompatible clones of O. organensis and of the interspecific hybrid L. esculentum x L. peruvianum.