A contribution to the linear no-threshold discussion
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

A Simple Stimulatory Device for Evoking Point-like Tactile Stimuli: A Searchlight for LFP to Spike Transitions
Published on: March 25, 2014
K H Chadwick1, H P Leenhouts, M J P Brugmans
1Department of Biological Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK. kennethhchadwick@aol.com
Abstract:
The paper approaches the linear no-threshold (LNT) hypothesis, currently used as the basis for recommendations in radiological protection, from the point of view of the radiation mechanism. All considerations of the validity of the LNT hypothesis based on experiment or epidemiology are dismissed because of the impossibility of deriving statistically significant data at very low doses. Instead, the LNT hypothesis is assessed from a consideration of the mechanism of radiation action. The DNA double-strand break is proposed to be the crucial radiation-induced molecular lesion. A trace is made using a series of correlations that link the DNA double-strand break to effects at the cellular level and these cellular effects are linked to the induction of cancer. Multistep modelling of carcinogenesis is used to take the link through to a consideration of radiation risk. It is concluded that, from the point of view of radiation mechanism, at very low doses the LNT hypothesis of radiation action is valid, that is, the risk function has a positive slope from zero dose.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Difference from Background: Limit of Detection
The LOD indicates the presence or absence...
Linear Circuits
Classification of Systems-I
Homogeneity dictates that if an input x(t) is multiplied by a constant c, the output y(t) is multiplied by the same constant. Mathematically, this is expressed as:
Linear time-invariant Systems
The input-output behavior of an LTI system can be fully defined by its response to an impulsive excitation at its input. Once this impulse response is known, the system's reaction to any other input can be calculated...
Linear Approximation in Frequency Domain
In contrast, nonlinear systems do not inherently possess these properties. However, for small deviations around an operating point, a nonlinear system can often be approximated as linear.
Parameters Affecting Nonlinear Elimination: Zero-Order Input, First-Order Absorption and Two-Compartment Model
When a drug is administered through a constant intravenous infusion and eliminated via nonlinear pharmacokinetics, it follows zero-order input. For example, oral drugs undergo first-order absorption upon administration and are eliminated through nonlinear pharmacokinetics.
In the case of subcutaneously administered drugs,...

