Fundamentals of radiology for natural scientists and veterinarians

A survey is presented of the fundamentals of the application of radiation in biology and medicine, of radiation effects, and principles and methods of radiation protection. The textbook is intended for students of veterinary medicine, natural sciences, and readers interested in the subject field. An outline of the physical principles, including measuring quantities and their determination, is followed by the explanation of radiation types, radiation sources, and the generation of X-rays. The physiological and cellular mechanisms induced by radiation are discussed in great detail in order to facilitate comprehension of the radiation effects on tissue, body organs, and the organism as a whole. Radiodiagnosis and X-ray diagnosis as well as nuclear medical applications are treated, with food radiology being explained as a special example. The book also deals with the legal aspects of radiation protection, including information on the radiation exposure of the environment and the population, explaining radiation sources and their effects. Literature references for further reading and a list of legal provisions provide good access to the information seeked by various readers. (orig.)