Multi-Disciplinary Role of Atomic Astrophysics: From Stellar Interiors to Cancer Research Via Nanotechnology

We discuss the application of atomic physics to two diverse topics: Astrophysical opacities that determine the flow of radiation through the interior of stars, and biomedical research using nanotechnology for novel methodologies for cancer diagnostics and therapy (theranostics). Recent determination of solar abundances suggests that a re-examination of the absolute accuracy of these opacities might be in order. A discussion of the Opacity Project work and possible sources of missing opacity and uncertainties in atomic data is presented with a view to possible solution of the solar abundances problem. Another major application is shaping up in biomedicine and nanotechnology: A paradigm change and transition from conventional broadband X-ray imaging (such as in CT scanners or common X-ray sources) to precision monochromatic spectroscoppy for cancer theranostics. A novel methodology — Resonant Theranostics — is proposed to exploit Kα resonances due to deep inner-shell transitions that trigger Auger processes in heavy elements. The methodology can be used to build laboratory monochromatic X-ray sources for imaging using Kα emission, as well as for therapy using Kα absorption by high-Z nanoparticles or radiosenstizing agents embedded in cancerous tumors. This review of recent work demonstrates the scope and power of multi-disciplinary research in general, particularly highlighting the role of atomic physics as an enabling scientific tool from astronomy to medicine. 2 Anil K. Pradhan et al.