Abstract: Accelerated charged particles are provided by inductive amplification of particle energy in connection with a deflagration-mode plasma discharge. The deflagration mode discharge tends to increase particle energy relative to other operating modes. Inductive amplification of particle energy further increases output particle velocity. Inductive amplification can occur by formation of a current loop in the plasma discharge, and/or by a sudden increase in inductance due to collapse of the current distribution of the plasma discharge. Applications include particle therapy and production of radio-isotopes.

Abstract: Accelerated charged particles are provided by inductive amplification of particle energy in connection with a deflagration-mode plasma discharge. The deflagration mode discharge tends to increase particle energy relative to other operating modes. Inductive amplification of particle energy further increases output particle velocity. Inductive amplification can occur by formation of a current loop in the plasma discharge, and/or by a sudden increase in inductance due to collapse of the current distribution of the plasma discharge. Applications include particle therapy and production of radio-isotopes.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention relate to an apparatus for moving the esophagus having an elongate body having a distal tip, a controlled curvature section, and a flexible section. A handle is coupled to the flexible section having means for adjusting the curvature of the controlled curvature section. Additionally, the length of the controlled curvature section is less than the length of the thoracic portion of the esophagus. Alternatively, there is an apparatus for moving the esophagus having a flexible elongate body having a distal tip, a controlled curvature section, and a proximal section. A bendable element is within the controlled curvature section that, when bent, moves and holds the controlled curvature section into a corresponding bent shape. There is provided various methods of adjusting the curvature of the esophagus during a therapeutic procedure in a treatment area outside of the esophagus.