Abstract: An optical waveguide comprising a silica structure and a number of radiation shielding dopant atoms. At least some of the radiation shielding dopant atoms are chemically bonded with at least some of the constituents of silica structure. As such, the radiation shielding dopants are fixed within the silica structure to shield the optical waveguide from at least one of alpha-, beta-, gamma-, x-, and neutron-radiation.

Abstract: Interior shields for protecting structure openings such as windows and doors are described. The shields which are to be positioned on the inside of a window include metal pane backing, metal reinforcement channel members, a metal flange frame, and sealing gasket material on the inside edges of the flange frame. The shields are held in place by compressive fasteners that include a metal cam type wheel with a flat side portion, an axial-hole off center and a side opening for an adjustment rod. A bolt can fit through the axial opening to hold the wheel against the side interior frame of a window. The bolt can be held in place by a concrete anchor and metal sleeve. Rotating the adjustment rod attaches and detaches the shield from the window. When attached, the gasket material forms a watertight seal between the shield and the window. For wooden frames a lag bolt can be substituted for the bolt. Materials for the shield and compressive fastener can include aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized steel or the like.