[Biophysical foundations of the effect of cosmic radiation and accelerator radiation].

This book summaries the results of numerous studies, mainly by Soviet investigators, of the characteristics of radiation effects of high energy cosmic rays and of their simulation by heavy charged particle accelerators, and also of their biological effects. It contains the first systematic presentation of data on specific hadron effects. Facts are given showing the ability of these particles to cause profound local damage in tissues and organs. There is evidence that these particles should be considered one of the main factors limiting the duration of space flights. In the book a generalized kinetic model of radiation-induced cellular damage also is presented. This model allows an explanations of the observed changes in dose related survival with increasing LET and dose-rate, based on microdosimetric conceptions.