WO2015105539A2

WO2015105539A2 - Radiation system with emanating source surrounding an internal attenuation component

Info

Publication number: WO2015105539A2
Application number: PCT/US2014/056135
Authority: WO
Inventors: Laurence J. Marsteller; Uwe Schwarz; Birgit DOCKHORN-NEUMAIER; Thorsten DOERR
Original assignee: Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc.; Eckert & Ziegler Radiopharma Gmbh
Priority date: 2013-09-18
Filing date: 2014-09-17
Publication date: 2015-07-16
Also published as: WO2015105539A9; WO2015105539A3

Abstract

Methods and radiation systems for delivery of radiation to a target such as the posterior portion of the eye featuring emanating sources with attenuation materials disposed therein. The emanating sources may be in the shape of an annulus, a partial annulus, or a variation thereof. The radiation systems may emit a radiation flux such that a substantially uniform dose is delivered to a target area.

Description

RADIATION SYSTEM WITH EMANATING SOURCE SURROUNDING AN INTERNAL ATTENUATION COMPONENT FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to methods and radiation systems for introducing radiation to the eye for various purposes, for example for treating and/or managing eye conditions including but not limited to macular degeneration. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Presently, workers in the field of radiation therapy believe that a disk-shaped radiation source (or a disk-shaped radiation projection) creates an ideal radiation profile for treating neovascular lesions of wet AMD. We have surprisingly discovered radiation systems that provide a substantially uniform dose rate to a target area (see FIG. 1 A). The radiation systems comprise emanating sources with attenuation materials (e.g., attenuation materials disposed within the emanating sources or effectively similar configurations). The target area is an area that is a certain distance (e.g., 2 mm) from the outer surface of the emanating source and that has a diameter that is less than, equal to, or greater than that of the diameter of the emanating source. The target area may be part of a tissue (e.g., part of or encompassing a neoplastic lesion, or any other appropriate body tissue), or the target area may be part of a detector or other material. Without wishing to limit the present invention to any theory or mechanism, it is believed that this radiation profile (e.g., the radiation profile from an emanating source having an annulus shape or an effectively similar configuration) may be more effective for radiation treatment purposes, for example for the treatment of neovascular lesions of wet AMD from the posterior episcleral surface. [0003] The present invention features methods and radiation systems for delivery of radiation, for example to the eye, e.g., the posterior portion of the eye. The methods and systems of the present invention may be used for any appropriate application, e.g., a medical application, an industrial application, or the like. The systems and methods of the present invention may be used for any appropriate medical application and are not limited to ophthalmic applications. In some embodiments, the methods and systems of the present invention are used to deliver radiation to the skin (e.g., for treating melanoma or other skin conditions and diseases (e.g., birthmarks, minimizing scarring), for treating oral cancers or other conditions or diseases, or the like. The radiation systems of the present invention provide a substantially uniform dose to a target area. The systems may have radiation profiles similar to that of an annulus-shaped emanating source or an effectively similar configuration (e.g., see FIG 1 A). [0004] Any feature or combination of features described herein are included within the scope of the present invention provided that the features included in any such combination are not mutually inconsistent as will be apparent from the context, this specification, and the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art. Additional advantages and aspects of the present invention are apparent in the following detailed description and claims. SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention features radiation systems for delivery of radiation. In some embodiments, the radiation system comprises an attenuation material and an emanating source having a shape that at least partially surrounds the attenuation material. The attenuation material and the emanating source may be coaxial. In some embodiments, the radiation system comprises an emanating source in the shape of a rotationally symmetrical shape, wherein an attenuation material is disposed in a center portion of the emanating source coaxial to the emanating source. [0006] In some embodiments, the emanating source completely surrounds the attenuation material. In some embodiments, the radiation system is attached to or engages an applicator system (e.g., a stick, a rod, a tube, a cannula, or a combination thereof). [0007] In some embodiments, the emanating source is in the shape of an annulus or a partial annulus. In some embodiments, the outer edge of the emanating source as viewed from above is in the shape of a circle, a star, an oval, a square, a triangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, or a decagon. In some embodiments, the attenuation material as viewed from a side is in the shape of a cylinder, a cone, a partial cone, a prism, or a dome. In some embodiments, the attenuation material comprises two coaxial layers of two distinct materials divided into an innermost layer and a second layer. In some embodiments, the attenuation material comprises more than one piece. In some embodiments, the innermost layer of the attenuation material comprises a light source emitter component. In some embodiments, the second layer comprises a metal or plastic. [0008] In some embodiments, the radiation system is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area, the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source, the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source. [0009] In some embodiments, the emanating source comprises a plurality of discrete inserts that have a cumulative radiation emission shape of an annulus or partial annulus. In some embodiments, the radiation system is housed in an encapsulation. In some embodiments, the emanating source is complexed to a carrier. In some embodiments, the carrier is a porous substrate. In some embodiments, the porous substrate comprises aluminum oxide. In some embodiments, isotope is added to the porous substrate, and the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed. In some embodiments, the isotope comprises a stable isotope, the isotope is added to the porous substrate, the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed, and then the isotope is activated. [0010] In some embodiments, the centrally disposed attenuation material comprises air, metal, plastic, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the attenuation material comprises lead, gold, tungsten, beryllium, titanium, magnesium, aluminum, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the attenuation material comprises polyoxymethylene (POM), polyacrylmethacrylate, silicone, an optical component, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the emanating source comprises Strontium-90, Yttrium-90, Strontium-90and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium, Yttrium- 89, Iodine-125, Cesium-131 , Cesium-137, Iridium-192, Ruthenium-106, Phosphorous-32, or a combination thereof. [0011] In some embodiments, the emanating source has a diameter of between about 1 to 100 mm. In some embodiments, the emanating source has a thickness of between about 0.1 to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the attenuation material is flush with the top surface of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the attenuation material extends above the top surface of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the emanating source is encapsulated. [0012] The present invention also features methods of irradiating a target of an eye (an“eye target”) in a patient. In some embodiments, the method comprises exposing a target of an eye with a radiation system (e.g., as described above, e.g., a radiation system comprising an attenuation material and an emanating source that at least partially surrounds the attenuation material). In some embodiments, the radiation system is attached to or engages an applicator system. In some embodiments, the applicator system comprises a stick, a rod, a tube, a cannula, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the radiation system is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area, the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source, the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the target of the eye (eye target) comprises a neovascular lesion of wet AMD. In some embodiments, the radiation system is placed adjacent to the retrobulbar episcleral surface. [0013] In some embodiments, the method comprises inserting an applicator system into a potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient, wherein the applicator system comprises a radiation system (e.g., as described above). The radiation system is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area (the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source, the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source). In some embodiments, the emanating source of the radiation system may create a radiation flux similar to a radiation flux emitted by an annulus-shaped emanating source or partial annulus-shaped emanating source. The method may further comprise positioning the radiation system near the target of the eye (eye target); exposing the target of the eye (eye target) to the emanating source; and removing the applicator system. In some embodiments, the target of the eye (eye target) comprises a neovascular lesion of wet AMD. In some embodiments, the radiation system is placed adjacent to the retrobulbar episcleral surface. [0014] In some embodiments, the step of inserting the applicator system into a potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient further comprises placing a distal portion of the applicator system on or near the sclera and positioning a treatment position of the distal portion of the applicator system near the target of the eye (eye target). In some embodiments, the radiation system is advanced to the treatment position prior to the inserting of the applicator system into the potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient. In some embodiments, the radiation system is advanced to the treatment position after the inserting of the applicator system into the potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient. [0015] The present invention also features brachytherapy systems. In some embodiments, the brachytherapy system comprises an applicator system for insertion into a potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of an eye of a patient, wherein the applicator system comprises a radiation system (e.g., as described above). The radiation system may be is disposed at or near a tip of the applicator system. In some embodiments, the tip of the applicator is disk-shaped. In some embodiments, the emanating source provides a dose rate of between about 1 to 10 Gy/min to a target. In some embodiments, the applicator system comprises a cannula system, wherein the cannula system comprises a proximal portion connected to a distal portion by an inflection point. The distal portion may have a radius of curvature between about 9 to 15 mm and an arc length between about 25 to 35 mm, and the proximal portion may have a radius of curvature between about an inner cross-sectional radius of the cannula system and about 1 meter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 A shows the dose distribution of an annulus-shaped emanating source (401 ). The dose across the diameter of the emanating source (which also may be the diameter of the target tissue) may be substantially uniform.

[0017] FIG. 1 B shows a perspective view of a radiation system (400) of the present invention. The radiation system (400) of FIG. 1 B comprises an emanating source (401 ) in the shape of an annular ring. A centrally disposed attenuation material (410) is disposed within the emanating source (401 ). The centrally disposed attenuation material (410) is shown to extend above the emanating source (401 ); however, the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) is not limited to this configuration. For example, the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) may be flush with or below the top surface (401 a) of the emanating source (401 ).

[0018] FIG. 1 C shows a top view of the radiation system (400) of FIG. 1 B.

[0019] FIG. 1 D shows a schematic view of an annulus-shaped emanating source (401 ) and a target and illustrates the lateral direction with respect to the target.

[0020] FIG. 2A shows a variety of configurations (shapes) for the emanating source (401 ) as viewed from above (or below) the radiation system (400). The emanating source (401 ) is not limited to an annulus shape. For example, in some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) is oval-shaped, star-shaped, hexagon-shaped, a rotationally symmetrical shape, a horseshoe shape, etc.

[0021] FIG. 2B shows a variety of configurations (shapes) for the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) as viewed from above (or below) the radiation system (400). The centrally disposed attenuation material (410) is not limited to a circular shape. For example, in some embodiments, the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) is oval-shaped, triangle-shaped, square-shaped, a rotationally symmetrical shape, etc.

[0022] FIG. 3 shows a horseshoe shaped emanating source (401 ). The radiation system (400) is attached to an applicator device (e.g., the distal portion (110) of the applicator device). The centrally disposed attenuation material (410) and a light source emitter component (610) are disposed in the inner area of the horseshoe shaped emanating source (410).

[0023] FIG. 4 shows a variety of configurations (shapes) for the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) as viewed from the side (e.g., a cross-sectional view) of the radiation system (400). The centrally disposed attenuation material (410) is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, in some embodiments, the centrally disposed attenuation material (401 ) has a cone shape, a spherical shape, a dome shape (e.g., an indentation (416)) in the top surface or bottom surface of the emanating source (401 ), a cuboid shape, a prism shape, a pyramid shape, etc.

[0024] FIG. 5A (a-c) shows alternative embodiments of the radiation system (400) wherein the radiation system (400) comprises one or more layers (e.g., coaxial layers) of emanating sources (401 ) and/or centrally disposed attenuation material (410), e.g., alternating rings, etc. The material for the various layers of the emanating sources (401 ) and/or centrally disposed attenuation material (410) may be the same or different.

[0025] FIG. 5B shows a side cross sectional view of the embodiment in FIG. 5A(b). In some embodiments, the first layer (e.g., centermost layer) is a light source (e.g., a light pipe), which may be surrounded by the second layer (e.g., a metal, e.g., stainless steel, or other attenuation material), which may be surrounded by a third layer, e.g., the emanating source (401 ). The radiation systems (400) are not limited to the aforementioned configurations or materials.

[0026] FIG. 6 (a, b) shows alternative embodiments of the radiation system (400) wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises a plurality of inserts (e.g., inlays, spheres, seeds, etc.) arranged in a ring. In some embodiments, the inserts are surrounded by inert or other material (414). The system (400) is not limited to spherical inserts arranged in a ring shape; for example, in some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) may comprise inserts having a different regular (e.g., cuboid) or irregular shape (as shown in (b)). In some embodiments, the inserts are arranged in alternative configurations, e.g., in a horseshoe shape.

[0027] FIG. 7 (A-E) shows embodiments of an applicator system comprising a radiation system (400) of the present invention. FIG. 7A shows a radiation system (400) comprising an annular emanating source (401 ) and a cylindrical centrally disposed attenuation material (410). FIG. 7B and FIG. 7C show a radiation system (400) like that of FIG. 7A housed in an encapsulation (402) (e.g., jacket) disposed at the tip (112) of the applicator device (100). FIG. 7E shows an encapsulation (402) attached to the distal portion (110) of the applicator device. The encapsulation (402) (e.g., jacket) houses the radiation system (400). A light source emitter component (610) is disposed in the center of the encapsulation (402) (e.g., jacket). The applicator systems and/or radiation systems (400) of the present invention are not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 7.

[0028] FIG. 8 shows a side cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the radiation system (400) wherein the emanating source (401 ) is in the shape of an annulus and is housed in the tip (112) of an applicator system. Disposed in the center of the emanating source (401 ) is a channel (e.g., light source plug compartment (116)) adapted to accept a light system (600). The tip (616) of the light source plug (614) (comprising the light source emitter component (610)) can be inserted into the light source plug compartment (116). The tip (616) may be secured in its position via a locking system (617). The tip (616) may extend through a light aperture (114) in the tip (112) of the distal portion (110) of the applicator device (100).

[0029] FIG. 9A shows a comparison between a radiation system comprising a YTTRIUM-90 emanating source in a ceramic ring (aluminum oxide annulus) with air as the centrally disposed attenuation material (see top diagram) and a radiation system comprising a YTTRIUM-90 emanating source in a ceramic ring (aluminum oxide annulus) with lead (density 11.34 g / cm3) as the centrally disposed attenuation material (see bottom diagram). The sources each had an outer diameter of 3.9 mm, an inner diameter of 3.1 mm, and a height of 0.7 mm. The dose was detected by a detector 2 mm from the outer surface of the emanating source. The radiation systems and the detector were separated by a piece of solid water, e.g., plastic with similar density and radiological properties as water). The axis labels are pixels on the detector film (202 pixels corresponds to 1 inch so the distance shown in the graph (0 to 160) corresponds to about 2 cm on the film). The numbers in the graphic are for darkness (0 = black, 255 = white) of the irradiated film (the higher the dose at a point of the film, the film becomes darker there).

[0030] FIG. 9B shows a schematic representation of the dose profiles of the radiation systems in FIG. 9A. The blue line represents the system with air as the attenuation material, and the orange line represents the system with lead (density 11.34 g / cm3) as the attenuation material. The X-axis is the distance across the film (in cm). The Y-axis is the dose applied to the film. FIG. 9B shows that the lead attenuation material provides a target area (approximately 5 mm in diameter) that has a substantially uniform dose.

[0031] FIG. 9C shows an overlay of dose profiles obtained from radiation systems similar to those in FIG. 9A/B but with other attenuation materials. The peaks broaden with a higher mass density of inserts (in the order of air 1.3 10^-3 g/cm3, POM 1.4 g / cm3, aluminum 2.7 g / cm3, stainless steel 7.9 g / cm3, lead 11.3 g / cm3)).

[0032] FIG. 10A shows a comparison of dose rates in a target region for several emanating source designs: a disc and various ring configurations.

[0033] FIG. 10B shows a comparison of dose rates in a target region for several emanating source designs: 4 active inserts arranged side by side; 4 inserts arranged side by side wherein only the outer 2 inserts are active; and 4 active inserts arranged on the circumference of a square.

[0034] FIG. 11 shows the 3D dose distribution (top) and iso-dose lines (middle) of an annulus-shaped emanating source (bottom).

[0035] FIG. 12A shows a side view of a linear emanating source (a four-beaded Strontium-90 source) against detectors at various distances from the source (e.g., 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, and 3.5 mm.

[0036] FIG. 12B shows a top cross sectional view of the source of FIG. 12A.

[0037] FIG. 12C shows dose distribution as surface plots and iso-dose lines (in Gy/min mCi) for the source of FIG. 12A at the 2.0 mm distance from the source midpoint.

[0038] FIG. 12D shows the 3D dose distribution of a linear-shaped emanating source (see configuration in FIG. 12A) at 2.0 mm from the source. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] The following is a list of elements corresponding to a particular element referred to herein:

[0040] 100 cannula system

[0041] 101 stick

[0042] 110 distal portion of cannula system

[0043] 112 tip/distal end of distal portion of cannula system

[0044] 114 light aperture in tip of distal portion of cannula system

[0045] 116 light source plug compartment

[0046] 120 proximal portion of cannula system

[0047] 400 radiation system

[0048] 401 emanating source [0049] 402 encapsulation

[0050] 410 centrally disposed attenuation material

[0051] 412 inner edge of emanating source

[0052] 414 inert material (or other material)

[0053] 416 indentation

[0054] 450 radiation flux

[0055] 600 light source assembly

[0056] 610 light source emitter component

[0057] 612 light pipe (e.g., fiber optic cable, light pipe, other light guide)

[0058] 613 lens (e.g., prism)

[0059] 614 light source plug

[0060] 616 tip of light source plug

[0061] 617 locking mechanism [0062] Referring now to FIG. 1 -12, the present invention features methods and radiation systems for delivery of radiation, for example for delivery of radiation to the eye (e.g., the posterior portion of the eye). For example, the present invention features radiation systems (400) comprising an emanating source (401 ) and an attenuation material (410), wherein the attenuation material (410) is disposed at least partially within the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the radiation systems (400) are attached to or engaged with an applicator system, for example a stick (101 ) or rod (solid, hollow, or partially hollow), a tube, a cannula system (100), or the like. In some embodiments, the radiation systems (400) attached to (or engaged with) the applicator systems are adapted for insertion into a potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of a patient, for example using the method of Brigatti, Hamilton et al. [0063] The present methods and systems may be effective for treating and/or managing a condition (e.g., an eye condition). For example, the present methods and radiation systems may be used to treat and/or manage wet (neovascular) age- related macular degeneration. The present methods and radiation systems are not limited to treating and/or managing wet (neovascular) age-related macular degeneration. For example, the present methods and/or radiation systems may also be used to apply superficial radiation to benign or malignant ocular growths (e.g., choroidal hemangioma, choroidal melanoma, retinoblastoma) and or to treat and/or manage conditions including macular degeneration, abnormal cell proliferation, choroidal neovascularization, retinopathy (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, vitreoretinopathy), macular edema, and tumors. [0064] The methods and systems of the present invention may be used for any appropriate application, e.g., a medical application, an industrial application, or the like. The systems and methods of the present invention may be used for any appropriate medical application and are not limited to ophthalmic applications. In some embodiments, the methods and systems of the present invention are used to deliver radiation to the skin (e.g., for treating melanoma or other skin conditions and diseases (e.g., birthmarks, minimizing scarring), for treating oral cancers or other conditions or diseases, or the like. RADIATION SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS

[0065] The present invention features radiation systems (400) comprising an emanating source (401 ) and an attenuation material (410). The radiation systems (400) may create a radiation profile, e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 A, wherein there is a substantially uniform dose delivered to a target area. The target area is an area that (a) is a certain distance (e.g., 2 mm) from the outer surface of the emanating source and (b) has a diameter that is less than, equal to, or greater than the diameter of the emanating source (401 ). As used herein, the term“substantially uniform” refers to a collection of doses that vary no more than about 20%, no more than about 15%, or no more than about 10%. For example, in an embodiment wherein the dose rates to the target area are such that the highest dose rate detected is no more than about 20%, 15%, or 10% higher than the average or median dose rate is reflective of a “substantially uniform” dose delivered to the target area. An embodiment wherein the dose rates to the target area are such that the lowest dose rate detected is no more than about 20%, 15%, or 10% less than the average or median dose rate is reflective of a“substantially uniform” dose delivered to the target area. [0066] In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is equal to the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is greater than the diameter of the emanating source. [0067] In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 0.01 to 0.1 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 0.1 to 0.5 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 0.5 to 1 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 1 to 1.25 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 1 to 1.5 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 1 to 2 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 2 to 3 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is more than 3 mm less than the diameter of the emanating source. [0068] In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 0.01 to 0.1 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 0.1 to 0.5 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 0.5 to 1 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 1 to 1.25 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 1 to 1.5 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 1 to 2 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is between about 2 to 3 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments the diameter of the target area is more than 3 mm greater than the diameter of the emanating source. [0069] In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is greater than or equal to 50% of the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is between about 50 to 75% of the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is between about 75 to 100% of the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is between about 100 to 125% of the diameter of the emanating source. In some embodiments, the diameter of the target area is at least 125% of the diameter of the emanating source. [0070] In some embodiments the emanating source does not necessarily have a circular outer edge, e.g., the emanating source has a different shape. In some embodiments, the target area has the same geometry as the emanating source. In some embodiments, the target area has the same dimensions as the emanating source. As used herein, the dimensions of the emanating source are referred to as the base dimensions. In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) minus between 0.01 and 0.25 mm (inwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) minus between 0.25 and 0.5 mm (inwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) minus between 0.5 and 1 mm (inwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) minus more than 1 mm (inwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). [0071] In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) plus between 0.01 and 0.25 mm (outwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) plus between 0.25 and 0.5 mm (outwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) plus between 0.5 and 1 mm (outwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). In some embodiments, the target area has the dimensions of the emanating source (the base dimensions) plus more than 1 mm (outwardly and perpendicularly to all lines tangent to the base dimensions). [0072] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the attenuation material (410) is disposed within the emanating source (401 ), e.g., near or in a central location with respect to the emanating source (401 ) (the emanating source (401 ) and attenuation material (410) may be coaxial). In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) has a shape that at least partially (or completely) surrounds the attenuation material (410). In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) is not necessarily disposed inside the emanating source (401 ) but is positioned so as to create a radiation profile similar to that of an emanating source having an annulus shape (or variation thereof). For example, the attenuation material (410) may be disposed on the outer surface of the emanating source (401 ) but in a central location so as to create a radiation system (400) similar to that of one with an annulus-shaped emanating source (401 ). EMANATING SOURCES

[0073] An emanating source (401 ) may refer to an isotope/source that emanates or emits radiation, or has the potential to emanate/emit radiation (e.g., a stable isotope). The emanating source (401 ) may be a stand-alone radiation source (e.g., a radioactive insert, a sealed seed, an unsealed seed, an inlay, a radioactive isotope complexed with a carrier such as an alloy or a ceramic carrier, etc.). The emanating source (401 ) may comprise an encapsulation (402) (e.g., gold, titanium, stainless steel, platinum) or other encasement (forming, for example, a “radionuclide brachytherapy source” (RBS)). As used herein, the terms“insert” and“seed” can refer to an isotope/source that may be encapsulated, an isotope/source that may not be encapsulated, an isotope/source that may be a stand-alone substance, a stand- alone isotope/source substance that complexes with materials that are naturally not radioactive and/or combinations thereof, etc. [0074] In some embodiments the emanating source (401 ) comprises one or more isotopes/sources (e.g., radioisotopes, stable isotopes, etc.) complexed to a carrier. The carrier may comprise a porous substrate (e.g., aluminum oxide, ceramic carrier) wherein the isotope is added to the porous substrate and the substrate/isotope complex is then sealed. In the case of a stable isotope, the stable isotope may be added to the porous substrate, the substrate/isotope complex is then sealed, and then the stable isotope is then activated to its radioactive isotope. [0075] In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) (e.g., the isotope/source, the isotope/source complexed in a carrier, etc.) is in the shape of an annulus (e.g., a ring), as shown in FIG. 1 B and FIG. 1 C. The emanating source (401 ) is not necessarily in the shape of an annulus, but the overall radiation flux (405), e.g., as shown in FIG 1 A, of the emanating source (or radiation system (400)) is similar to that of an annulus shaped emanating source. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B show non-limiting examples of various shapes of emanating sources. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) has a shape that is a variation of an annulus, e.g., a partial annulus, a horseshoe (see FIG. 3), a half-pipe, a square with a hollow center, a rectangle with a hollow center, etc. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) has an alternative shape, for example another geometric or symmetrical shape (rotationally symmetrical shapes) with a hollow center. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises one or multiple wires that together form a generally annulus-like radiation emission shape (406). In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises multiple discrete inserts (e.g., inlays, seeds, spheres, etc.) that together have a radiation profile similar to that of an annulus- shaped emanating source (e.g., see FIG 6). The emanating sources (401 ) are not limited to the shapes and configurations described herein. For example, the emanating source (401 ) comprising a plurality of inserts may feature inserts that are not necessarily equidistant from the center (or attenuation material (410)). [0076] The emanating source (401 ) may be constructed in any appropriate size, e.g., a customized size depending on the size and depth of the target. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) has a diameter between about 1 to 100 mm, e.g., the outer diameter of the emanating source (401 ) is between about 1 to 100 mm, e.g., 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, between about 1 mm to 5 mm, between about 1 mm to 10 mm, between about 1 mm to 20 mm, etc. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) has an inner diameter. The inner diameter of the emanating source (401 ) is less than the outer diameter of the emanating source. The emanating source (401 ) may be constructed with any appropriate inner diameter. [0077] In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) has a thickness of between about 0.1 to 10 mm, e.g., 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm. 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, between about 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, between about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, between about 0.1 mm to 5 mm, etc. The sizes and thicknesses of the emanating source (401 ) are not limited to the dimensions described herein. ATTENUATION MATERIAL

[0078] The radiation systems (400) of the present invention further comprise an attenuation material (410) that either reduces or eliminates radiation from a particular region of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) merely comprises a hole, e.g., filled with air. In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) comprises air, metal, plastic, the like, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) comprises lead, gold, tungsten, beryllium, titanium, magnesium, aluminum, the like, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) comprises silicone, polyoxymethylene (POM), polyacrylmethacrylate, an optical component, or a combination thereof. The attenuation material (410) helps create the shape of the emanating source (401 ), e.g., the annulus shape or a variation thereof as described herein. [0079] As shown in FIG. 2A, the attenuation material (410) may be generally circular as viewed from above (or below); however, the attenuation material (410) is not limited to this shape. As shown in FIG. 2B, the attenuation material (410) may be any particular geometric or symmetrical shape (rotationally symmetrical shape), e.g., an oval, a square, a triangle, etc. As shown in FIG. 4, the attenuation material (410) may be generally cylindrical (as viewed from the side). In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) has an alternative shape, e.g., a cone-like shape or a variation thereof. In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) is an indentation (416). The attenuation material (410) is not limited to the shapes and configurations described herein. For example, shown in FIG. 1 B, the attenuation material may extend beyond one or more of the surfaces (e.g., the top surface) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) is flush with one or more (or all) of the surfaces of the emanating source (401 ). [0080] As shown in FIG. 6, the emanating source (401 ) may comprise multiple inserts arranged to create a profile similar to that of an annulus-shaped emanating source. The attenuation material (410) may be disposed within the central area of the insert arrangement. In some embodiments, inert material is disposed between the inserts. In some embodiments, the material between the inserts is attenuation material (410). [0081] As described above, the attenuation material (410) is not necessary disposed within the emanating source (401 ); the attenuation material (410) may be positioned external to the emanating source (401 ) but in a generally central region, acting like a shield. This may achieve a radiation profile similar to that of an annulus- shaped emanating source. [0082] In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 10% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 15% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 20% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 25% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 30% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 40% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 50% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 60% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 70% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 80% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 90% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the dose that is emitted from the attenuation material (410) is about 100% less than the dose emitted from the inner edge (412) of the emanating source (401 ). [0083] In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) is encapsulated. In some embodiments, the attenuation material (410) is encapsulated (e.g., separate from the emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, both the emanating source (401 ) and attenuation material (410) are encapsulated. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) may comprise an encapsulation (402) (e.g., gold, titanium, stainless steel, platinum) or other encasement, wherein the isotope insert within the encapsulation (402) itself does not have an attenuation material disposed therein but the encapsulation is configured and constructed to be the attenuation material at the surface of the emanating source (e.g., the encapsulation comprises a centrally disposed radiation shaper to act as the attenuation material). LAYERING OF EMANATING SOURCES OR ATTENUATION MATERIALS

[0084] The radiation system (400) may comprise one or more rings or layers of emanating sources (401 ) and/or attenuation materials (410). For example, as shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, the radiation system (400) may comprise a plurality of coaxial layers. In some embodiments, the layers alternate between emanating source material and attenuation material (e.g., see FIG. 5A(a)). In some embodiments, a first emanating source layer may be adjacent to a second emanating source layer. In some embodiments, a first attenuation material layer may be adjacent to a second attenuation material layer (see FIG. 5A(b), FIG. 5A(c), and FIG. 5B). FIG. 5A(b) shows two layers (coaxial layers) of attenuation material inside the emanating source. The attenuation material is divided into an innermost layer (a first layer) and a second layer adjacent to the innermost layer. In some embodiments, the attenuation material is more than one piece (e.g., the innermost layer and the second layer are different pieces) and/or more than one material. For example, in some embodiments, the innermost layer comprises a light source or a means of emitting light, and the second layer comprises metal, plastic, or any other appropriate attenuation material (410). The radiation systems (400) are not limited to the configurations shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B. DOSE RATES AND COMPOSITION OF EMANATING SOURCE

[0085] The methods and systems of the present invention may features any appropriate emanating source (401 ). In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) is a high-dose-rate (HDR) source. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) is a low-dose-rate (LDR) source. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) is a pulsed-dose-rate (PDR) source. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ), e.g., HDR source, delivers a dose rate greater than 100 cGy per minute for a length of time. However the present invention is not limited to a HDR source that delivers a dose rate greater than 100 cGy per minute. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of between about 2 to 10 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of between about 1 to 10 Gy/min to the target. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of between about 2 to 6 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of about 4.4 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ), e.g., a LDR source, provides a dose rate of less than about 2Gy/hour. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ), e.g., a medium-dose-rate (MDR) source, provides a dose rate of between about 2 to 12 Gy/hour. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ), e.g., a HDR source, provides a dose rate of greater than about 12 Gy/hour. [0086] In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of less than about 10 Gy/min. For example, in some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 1 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 2 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 3 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 4 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 5 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of between about 5 and 10 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of about 10 Gy/min to the target area. [0087] In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 10 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 11 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 12 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 13 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 14 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than about 15 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 10 to 15 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 15 to 20 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 20 to 30 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 30 to 40 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 40 to 50 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 50 to 60 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 60 to 70 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 70 to 80 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 80 to 90 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 90 to 100 Gy/min. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of greater than 100 Gy/min. [0088] In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 15 to 20 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 20 to 25 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 25 to 30 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 30 to 35 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 35 to 40 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 40 to 50 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 50 to 60 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 60 to 70 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 70 to 80 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 80 to 90 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate between about 90 to 100 Gy/min to the target area. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate greater than about 100 Gy/min to the target area. [0089] The present invention is not limited to emanating sources (401 ) comprising any particular radioisotope. The emanating source (401 ) may comprise one or more materials. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises a stable isotope. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises a radioactive isotope, a stable isotope, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises a stable isotope that is later activated to a radioactive isotope. [0090] The present invention may employ emanating sources comprising radioisotopes either alone, in combination, or in secular equilibrium with daughter products. For example, the emanating source may comprise Strontium-90, Yttrium- 90, Strontium-90 and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium, or neither Strontium-90 nor Yttrium-90. [0091] In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises a beta emitter. However, the emanating source (401 ) is not limited to a beta emitted; in some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises an appropriate alpha emitter or gamma emitter. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises a stable isotope or a mixture of stable isotopes wherein one or more stable isotopes can be activated, e.g., via bombarding the material with a neutron beam (neutron activation), to convert the stable isotope into a radioactive isotope with the desired properties. In some embodiments, the emanating source (401 ) comprises Strontium-90, Yttrium-89, Yttrium-90, Iodine-125, Cesium-131 , Cesium- 137, Iridium-192, Ruthenium-106, Phosphorous-32, any other appropriate source, stable isotopes or radioactive isotopes, a combination of isotopes, other isotopes or emanating sources that are not isotopes (e.g., x-ray sources, radiofrequency sources), or isotopes alone, or in combination, or in secular equilibrium with daughter products (e.g., Strontium-90 and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium). [0092] According to the Federal Code of Regulations, a radionuclide brachytherapy source (RBS) comprises a radionuclide encased in an encapsulation layer. For example, the Federal Code of Regulations defines a radionuclide brachytherapy source as follows:“A radionuclide brachytherapy source is a device that consists of a radionuclide which may be enclosed in a sealed container made of gold, titanium, stainless steel, or platinum and intended for medical purposes to be placed onto a body surface or into a body cavity or tissue as a source of nuclear radiation for therapy.” A RBS may contain: 1 ) a radionuclide or radioactive isotope (one that emits radiation), 2) the isotope may be complexed with a carrier such as alloyed or a ceramic carrier, 3) there may be an optional radiation shaper 4) and these components are sealed within an encapsulation usually composed of stainless steel, gold, or titanium. The present invention may use emanating sources that are RBSs. RADIATION PROFILES

[0093] Without wishing to limit the present invention to any theory or mechanism, it is believed that the emanating source in the shape of an annulus or variation thereof (or a radiation system (400) that functions like one with an annulus (or similarly shaped) emanating source (401 )) may provide a substantially uniform dose to a target area. As previously discussed, the target area is an area at a certain distance (e.g., 2 mm) from the outer surface of the emanating source and a certain diameter or size (e.g., see FIG. 1 A). Shapes approximating an annulus, e.g., a square made of rectangular inserts, three, four, five, or six (or more) inserts evenly spaced around in a circle, a partial annulus (horseshoe), etc., may have similar dosimetry. Such dosimetry may provide improved dose homogeneity across a tissue area (e.g., lesion, tumor), for example the dose may be substantially uniform across a tissue area. Such dosimetry may feature the absence of a dose hot spot center; also, the edges of the targeted tissue area may receive a more equivalent dose like that at the center. In some embodiments, the radiation systems (400) of the present invention may provide a more uniform dose distribution throughout the depth of the target area. In some embodiments, the shape of the emanating source (401 ) is not necessarily an annulus, but the resulting radiation flux of the emanating source (401 ) is similar to that of the annulus configuration (e.g., the emanating source could comprise a ring of discrete inserts, a source combined with a radiation shaper, etc.). [0094] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B show a comparison between two Yttrium-90 radiation systems, one with an attenuation material comprising air (see top diagram in FIG. 9A and the blue line in FIG. 9B) and one with an attenuation material comprising lead (density 11.34 g / cm3) (see bottom diagram in FIG. 9A and the orange line in FIG. 9B). The emanating sources (401 ) for the two radiation systems (400) both have an outer diameter of 3.9 mm, an inner diameter of 3.1 mm, and a thickness of 0.7 mm. FIG. 9B shows the target area (approximately 5 mm in diameter) achieved by using lead as the attenuation material in this example. The dose in the target area is substantially uniform, e.g., there is little variance in the doses within the target area and there is no center hot spot. FIG. 9C shows a comparison of similar radiation systems but with different attenuation materials: air 1.3 10^-3 g/cm3, POM 1.4 g / cm3, aluminum 2.7 g / cm3, stainless steel 7.9 g / cm3, and lead 11.3 g / cm3. The attenuation materials, e.g., POM, aluminum, stainless steel, lead, create target areas with substantially uniform dose rates. The attenuation materials with higher mass densities create wider/larger target areas. [0095] For reference, FIG. 10A shows a comparison of dose rates across a distance for ring-shaped (annulus) and disc-shaped emanating source designs. The ring sources have a more homogenous dose distribution over the area from the target area center to about 1 mm to 1.5 mm from the target area center (a target area of about 2-3 mm in diameter) as compared to the disc source. [0096] FIG. 10B also shows a comparison of dose rates across a distance for several emanating source designs: (a) 4 active inserts arranged side by side; (b) 4 inserts arranged side by side wherein only the outer 2 inserts are active; and (c) 4 active inserts arranged on the circumference of a square. The active inserts have a length of 2.35 mm and a diameter of 0.27 mm. The sources with“4 inserts side by side” are rectangles with dimensions of 2.1 mm x 3.8 mm. The source with“4 inserts in a square” is a square with a side length of 3.8 mm. For the“4 active inserts on the circumference of a square,” the maximum target dose rate per activity was nearly half that of the other two arrangements. The dose distribution over the distance of 0 to 1.5 mm from the center of the target area (a target area of about 3 mm in diameter) was more homogeneous for the“4 active inserts on the circumference of a square” source as compared to the other two arrangements. For example, for the 4 active inserts in a square, the doses (15 data points) over the distance of 0 to 1.5 mm from the center of the target area range from about 0.84 au to about 0.66 au. The average dose rate was approximately 0.76 au, and the median dose rate was about 0.78 au. The highest dose rate was 0.84 au, which is about 10.5% higher than the average dose rate and about 7.5% higher than the median dose rate. The lowest dose rate was 0.66 au, which is about 13% less than the average dose rate and about 15% less than the median dose rate. For the 4 active inserts side by side, the doses (15 data points) over the distance of 0 to 1.5 mm from the center of the target area range from about 0.8 au to about 1.45 au. The average dose rate was approximately 1.16 au, and the median dose rate was about 1.2 au. The highest dose rate was 1.45 au, which is about 25% more than the average dose rate and about 21 % more than the median dose rate. The lowest dose rate was 0.8 au, which is about 31 % less than the average dose rate and about 33% less than the median dose rate. [0097] FIG. 11 shows the 3D dose distribution (top) and iso-dose lines (middle) of an annulus-shaped emanating source (shown at the bottom). [0098] For reference, FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B show a linear emanating source (a four-beaded Strontium-90 source) against detectors at various distances from the source (e.g., 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, and 3.5 mm. FIG. 12C shows the dose distribution as surface plots and iso-dose lines (in Gy/min mCi) for the source of FIG. 12A at the 2.0 mm distance from the source midpoint (the diagrams show an area of 8 mm by 8 mm from the center of the target area). FIG. 12D shows the 3D dose distribution of the linear-shaped emanating source (FIG. 12A) at 2.0 mm from the source. [0099] Table 1 below describes non-limiting examples of estimated target area diameters (with a substantially uniform dose). The present invention is not limited to the source dimensions (e.g., outer diameters, inner diameters), distances from the target area, and diameters of the target area. The target area diameters may depend on the type of source used, the type of attenuation material, the distance from the target, the outer diameter, and/or the inner diameter. Inner Diameter of

5 3.4 2.6 2.0 2.4

[00100] In some embodiments, the radiation system (400) is a stand-alone unit (e.g., not attached to or engaged with an applicator system). In some embodiments, the radiation system (400) is attached to or engaged with an applicator system. The applicator system may comprise a rod, a stick (101 ) (e.g., a solid stick, a hollow stick, a partially hollow stick, etc.), a tube, a cannula system (100) (e.g., a curved cannula), or the like. The applicator system may be a pre-loaded system (e.g., the radiation system (400) is positioned prior to the insertion of the applicator system) or an after-loaded system (e.g., the radiation system (400) is positioned after insertion of the applicator system). [00101] FIGS. 3, FIGS. 7A-E and FIG. 8 show non-limiting examples of applicator systems used in combination with the radiation systems (400) of the present invention. In some embodiments, the radiation system (400) is disposed at the distal end (e.g., tip) of the applicator system. In some embodiments, the radiation system (400) is attached to the distal end of an applicator system, and a light system is disposed within the radiation system (400), e.g., in the middle of the radiation system (400) (see FIG. 3 and FIG. 8) [00102] The applicator system may be adapted to hold the radiation system (400) at one or more treatment positions. In some embodiments, the radiation system (400) is fixed in the tip of the applicator system. The radiation system (400) may be positioned over a target (or near a target) and, then the radiation system (400) may then irradiate the target for a length of time desired. [00103] In some embodiments, applicator system comprises a cannula system (100). The cannula system (100) may feature a straight and/or curved cannula. The cannula system (100) may comprise a distal portion (110) (with a tip (112)) and a proximal portion (120) connected by an inflection point (130). The distal portion (110) may be generally for placement around a portion of the globe of the eye. In some embodiments, the distal portion (110) has a radius of curvature between about 9 to 15 mm and an arc length between about 25 to 35 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal portion (120) has a radius of curvature between about an inner cross- sectional radius of the cannula system (100) and about 1 meter. The cannula system (100), or a portion thereof, may be flexible, fixed-shape, or a combination thereof. The cannula system (100) is not limited to the aforementioned dimensions and configurations. [00104] The applicator system may feature a delivery system to deliver the radiation system (400) to a treatment position (or various treatment positions) in the applicator system. Once at the treatment position, the radiation system (400) can then irradiate the target for a desired length of time. The delivery system may also function to remove the radiation system (400) from the treatment position(s) within the applicator system and optionally from the applicator system altogether. For example, the delivery system may retract the radiation system (400) to its starting position (either inside or outside of the applicator system). [00105] In some embodiments, the applicator system is inserted, e.g., into the potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule, and is positioned appropriately. In the example of the applicator system comprising a cannula system, the distal portion (110) of the cannula system (100) may be placed on or near the sclera and the treatment position(s) of the cannula system (100) (e.g., in the distal portion (110)) is positioned near the target. The radiation system (400) can occupy the treatment position for a certain length of time (e.g., dwell time). In some embodiments, the applicator system is connected to a handle and/or shielding system (e.g., radiation shielding PIG). [00106] In some embodiments, the radiation system (400) is directed through one or more channels to one or more treatment positions that in summation deliver a dose to the target approximating that emanating from an annulus-shaped (or partial annulus-shaped) emanating source (401 ). [00107] The tip of the applicator system may be constructed in a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, in some embodiments, the tip of the applicator system is rounded. In some embodiments, the tip of the applicator system is an annulus or a variation thereof (e.g., partial annulus, a horseshoe shape, etc.). The tip of the applicator system may be any appropriate shape to accommodate the radiation system (400). Further, the applicator system (e.g., cannula system (100)) is not limited to the configurations disclosed herein. The applicator system (e.g., cannula system (100)) may be any appropriate shape to accommodate the radiation system (400). [00108] The radiation system (400) is not limited to use with a cannula system (100), e.g., the cannula system (100) described herein. As discussed above, the radiation system (400) may be used alone or in combination with any other appropriate applicator system (e.g., cannula, rod, stick (101 ), tube, etc.). LIGHT SOURCE ASSEMBLY

[00109] In some embodiments, the applicator system (e.g., the cannula system (100)) comprises a means of emitting light or light source, e.g., a light source assembly (600), a means of emitting light from a distant source (e.g., a“light source emitter component (610)”, e.g., a fixture at the end of a fiber optic cable), etc. The means of emitting light may be connected via a fiber optic cable or light pipe (612). The means of emitting light (e.g., light source emitter component (610)) may be positioned in any appropriate place on or in the applicator system (e.g., the cannula system (100)). For example, in some embodiments, the light source (e.g., light source emitter component (610)) is positioned in the center of tip of the applicator system (e.g., see FIG. 3, FIG. 7E, and FIG. 8). In some embodiments, the light source (e.g., light source emitter component (610) is positioned in the distal end (112) of the distal portion (110) of the cannula system (100). The light source (e.g., light source emitter component (610)) may be incorporated into the applicator system or may be a separate system. [00110] As shown in FIG. 8, the light source assembly (600) may comprise a fiber optic cable (612) with a light source plug (614) disposed on its end. The fiber optic cable (612) may be connected to an external light source. In some embodiments, the light source emitter component (610) is incorporated into the light source plug (614). For example, in some embodiments, the light source emitter component (610) is disposed on the tip (616) of the light source plug (614). The light source plug (610) and light source emitter component (610)/tip (616) of light source plug (614) may be adapted to engage (e.g., slide into) a light source plug compartment (116) disposed in the tip (112) of the distal portion (110) of the applicator system (e.g., cannula system (100)). In some embodiments, the light source plug compartment (116) is disposed in the center of the tip (112) of the distal portion (110) of the applicator system (e.g., cannula system (100)). In some embodiments, the light source plug compartment (116) is disposed in the center of the radiation system (400) or emanating sources (401 ) in the tip (112) of the cannula system (100). The placement and configuration of the light source plug compartment (116) is not limited to the positions and configurations shown herein. [00111] In some embodiments, the tip (616) (e.g., light source emitter component (610)) of the light source plug (614) engages a light aperture (114) disposed on the bottom surface (e.g., the sclera-contacting surface) of the tip (112) of the applicator system (e.g., cannula system (100)). The light aperture (114) may allow the tip (616) (e.g., light source emitter component (610)) of the light source plug (614) to contact the sclera. This may allow transmission of light through the sclera. [00112] In some embodiments, the light source plug (614) is secured in the light source plug compartment (116) via a locking mechanism, e.g., a luer lock or other appropriate type of lock. In some embodiments, a groove (618) is disposed in the applicator system (e.g., cannula system (100)), e.g., in the distal portion (110) of the applicator system (e.g., cannula system (100)) is adapted to engage the fiber optic cable (612). [00113] In some embodiments, a lens (613) (e.g., prism) is disposed at the end of the fiber optic cable or light pipe (612). Without wishing to limit the present invention to any theory or mechanism, it is believed that the lens (613), e.g., prism, may allow for transmission of light at a right angle from the fiber optic cable or light pipe (612) through the aperture (114). [00114] As used herein, the term “about” refers to plus or minus 10% of the referenced number. [00115] Various modifications of the invention, in addition to those described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. Each reference cited in the present application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [00116] Although there has been shown and described the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made thereto which do not exceed the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the scope of the invention is only to be limited by the following claims. Reference numbers recited in the claims are exemplary and for ease of review by the patent office only, and are not limiting in any way. In some embodiments, the figures presented in this patent application are drawn to scale, including the angles, ratios of dimensions, etc. In some embodiments, the figures are representative only and the claims are not limited by the dimensions of the figures. In some embodiments, descriptions of the inventions described herein using the phrase “comprising” includes embodiments that could be described as “consisting of”, and as such the written description requirement for claiming one or more embodiments of the present invention using the phrase“consisting of” is met. [00117] The reference numbers recited in the below claims are solely for ease of examination of this patent application, and are exemplary, and are not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims to the particular features having the corresponding reference numbers in the drawings.

Claims

WE CLAIM: 1. A radiation system (400) comprising:

(a) an attenuation material (410); and

(b) an emanating source (401 ) having a shape that at least partially surrounds the attenuation material (410).

2. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the attenuation material (410) and the emanating source (401 ) are coaxial.

3. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) completely surrounds the attenuation material (410).

4. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the radiation system (400) is attached to or engages an applicator system.

5. The radiation system (400) of claim 4, wherein the applicator system comprises a stick (101 ), a rod, a tube, a cannula, or a combination thereof.

6. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) is in the shape of an annulus or a partial annulus.

7. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the outer edge of the emanating source (401 ) as viewed from above is in the shape of a circle, a star, an oval, a square, a triangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, or a decagon.

8. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the attenuation material (410) as viewed from a side is in the shape of a cylinder, a cone, a partial cone, a prism, or a dome.

9. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises two coaxial layers of two distinct materials divided into an innermost layer and a second layer.

10. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises more than one piece.

11. The radiation system (400) of claim 9, wherein the innermost layer of the attenuation material (410) comprises a light source emitter component (610).

12. The radiation system (400) of claim 9, wherein the second layer comprises a metal or plastic.

13. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the radiation system (400) is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area, the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source (401 ), the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source (401 ).

14. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises a plurality of discrete inserts that have a cumulative radiation emission shape (406) of an annulus or partial annulus.

15. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the radiation system (400) is housed in an encapsulation (402).

16. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) is complexed to a carrier.

17. The radiation system (400) of claim 16, wherein the carrier is a porous substrate.

18. The radiation system (400) of claim 17, wherein the porous substrate comprises aluminum oxide.

19. The radiation system (400) of claim 17, wherein isotope is added to the porous substrate, and the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed.

20. The radiation system (400) of claim 17, wherein the isotope comprises a stable isotope, the isotope is added to the porous substrate, the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed, and then the isotope is activated.

21. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) comprises air, metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.

22. The radiation system (400) of claim 21 , wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises lead, gold, tungsten, beryllium, titanium, magnesium, aluminum, or a combination thereof.

23. The radiation system (400) of claim 21 , wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises polyoxymethylene (POM), polyacrylmethacrylate, silicone, an optical component, or a combination thereof.

24. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises Strontium-90, Yttrium-90, Strontium-90and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium, Yttrium-89, Iodine-125, Cesium-131 , Cesium-137, Iridium-192, Ruthenium-106, Phosphorous-32, or a combination thereof.

25. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a diameter of between about 1 to 100 mm.

26. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a thickness of between about 0.1 to 10 mm.

27. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the attenuation material (410) is flush with the top surface of the emanating source (401 ).

28. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the attenuation material (410) extends above the top surface of the emanating source (401 ).

29. The radiation system (400) of claim 1 , wherein the emanating source (401 ) is encapsulated.

30. A radiation system (400) comprising:

an emanating source (401 ) in the shape of a rotationally symmetrical shape, wherein an attenuation material (410) is disposed in a center portion of the emanating source (401 ) coaxial to the emanating source.

31. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) completely surrounds the attenuation material (410).

32. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the radiation system (400) is attached to or engages an applicator system.

33. The radiation system (400) of claim 32, wherein the applicator system comprises a stick (101 ), a rod, a tube, a cannula, or a combination thereof.

34. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is in the shape of an annulus or a partial annulus.

35. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the outer edge of the emanating source (401 ) as viewed from above is in the shape of a circle, a star, an oval, a square, a triangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, or a decagon.

36. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the attenuation material (410) as viewed from a side is in the shape of a cylinder, a cone, a partial cone, a prism, or a dome.

37. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises two coaxial layers of two distinct materials divided into an innermost layer and a second layer.

38. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises more than one piece.

39. The radiation system (400) of claim 37, wherein the innermost layer of the attenuation material (410) comprises a light source emitter component (610).

40. The radiation system (400) of claim 37, wherein the second layer comprises a metal or plastic.

41. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the radiation system (400) is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area, the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source (401 ), the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source (401 ).

42. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises a plurality of discrete inserts that have a cumulative radiation emission shape (406) of an annulus or partial annulus.

43. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the radiation system (400) is housed in an encapsulation (402).

44. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is complexed to a carrier.

45. The radiation system (400) of claim 44, wherein the carrier is a porous substrate.

46. The radiation system (400) of claim 45, wherein the porous substrate comprises aluminum oxide.

47. The radiation system (400) of claim 45, wherein isotope is added to the porous substrate, and the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed.

48. The radiation system (400) of claim 45, wherein the isotope comprises a stable isotope, the isotope is added to the porous substrate, the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed, and then the isotope is activated.

49. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) comprises air, metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.

50. The radiation system (400) of claim 49, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises lead, gold, tungsten, beryllium, titanium, magnesium, aluminum, or a combination thereof.

51. The radiation system (400) of claim 49, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises polyoxymethylene (POM), polyacrylmethacrylate, silicone, an optical component, or a combination thereof.

52. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises Strontium-90, Yttrium-90, Strontium-90and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium, Yttrium-89, Iodine-125, Cesium-131 , Cesium-137, Iridium-192, Ruthenium-106, Phosphorous-32, or a combination thereof.

53. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a diameter of between about 1 to 100 mm.

54. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a thickness of between about 0.1 to 10 mm.

55. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the attenuation material (410) is flush with the top surface of the emanating source (401 ).

56. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the attenuation material (410) extends above the top surface of the emanating source (401 ).

57. The radiation system (400) of claim 30, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is encapsulated.

58. A method of irradiating a target of an eye in a patient, said method comprising exposing a target of an eye with a radiation system (400) comprising an attenuation material (410); and an emanating source (401 ) having a shape that at least partially surrounds the attenuation material (410).

59. The method of claim 58, wherein the attenuation material (410) and the emanating source (401 ) are coaxial.

60. The method of claim 58, wherein the emanating source (401 ) completely surrounds the attenuation material (410).

61. The method of claim 58, wherein the radiation system (400) is attached to or engages an applicator system.

62. The method of claim 61 , wherein the applicator system comprises a stick (101 ), a rod, a tube, a cannula, or a combination thereof.

63. The method of claim 58, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is in the shape of an annulus or a partial annulus.

64. The method of claim 58, wherein the outer edge of the emanating source (401 ) as viewed from above is in the shape of a circle, a star, an oval, a square, a triangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, or a decagon.

65. The method of claim 58, wherein the attenuation material (410) as viewed from a side is in the shape of a cylinder, a cone, a partial cone, a prism, or a dome.

66. The method of claim 58, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises two coaxial layers of two distinct materials divided into an innermost layer and a second layer.

67. The method of claim 58, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises more than one piece.

68. The method of claim 66, wherein the innermost layer of the attenuation material (410) comprises a light source emitter component (610).

69. The method of claim 66, wherein the second layer comprises a metal or plastic.

70. The method of claim 58, wherein the radiation system (400) is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area, the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source (401 ), the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source (401 ).

71. The method of claim 58, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises a plurality of discrete inserts that have a cumulative radiation emission shape (406) of an annulus or partial annulus.

72. The method of claim 58, wherein the radiation system (400) is housed in an encapsulation (402).

73. The method of claim 58, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is complexed to a carrier.

74. The method of claim 73, wherein the carrier is a porous substrate.

75. The method of claim 74, wherein the porous substrate comprises aluminum oxide.

76. The method of claim 74, wherein isotope is added to the porous substrate, and the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed.

77. The method of claim 74, wherein the isotope comprises a stable isotope, the isotope is added to the porous substrate, the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed, and then the isotope is activated.

78. The method of claim 58, wherein the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) comprises air, metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.

79. The method of claim 78, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises lead, gold, tungsten, beryllium, titanium, magnesium, aluminum, or a combination thereof.

80. The method of claim 78, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises polyoxymethylene (POM), polyacrylmethacrylate, silicone, an optical component, or a combination thereof.

81. The method of claim 58, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises Strontium-90, Yttrium-90, Strontium-90and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium, Yttrium-89, Iodine-125, Cesium-131 , Cesium-137, Iridium-192, Ruthenium-106, Phosphorous-32, or a combination thereof.

82. The method of claim 58, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a diameter of between about 1 to 100 mm.

83. The method of claim 58, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a thickness of between about 0.1 to 10 mm.

84. The method of claim 58, wherein the target of the eye comprises a neovascular lesion of wet AMD.

85. The method of claim 58, wherein the radiation system (400) is placed adjacent to the retrobulbar episcleral surface.

86. A method of irradiating a target of an eye in a patient, said method comprising:

(a) inserting an applicator system into a potential space between a sclera and a Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient, the applicator system comprises a radiation system (400), the radiation system (400) comprises an attenuation material (410) and an emanating source (401 ) having a shape that at least partially surrounds the attenuation material (410), wherein the radiation system (400) is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area, the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source (401 ), the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source (401 );

(b) positioning the radiation system (400) near the target of the eye;

(c) exposing the target of the eye to the emanating source (401 ); and

(d) removing the applicator system.

87. The method of claim 86, wherein the attenuation material (410) and the emanating source (401 ) are coaxial.

88. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) completely surrounds the attenuation material (410).

89. The method of claim 86, wherein the applicator system comprises a stick (101 ), a rod, a tube, a cannula, or a combination thereof.

90. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is in the shape of an annulus or a partial annulus.

91. The method of claim 86, wherein the outer edge of the emanating source (401 ) as viewed from above is in the shape of a circle, a star, an oval, a square, a triangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, or a decagon.

92. The method of claim 86, wherein the attenuation material (410) as viewed from a side is in the shape of a cylinder, a cone, a partial cone, a prism, or a dome.

93. The method of claim 86, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises two coaxial layers of two distinct materials divided into an innermost layer and a second layer.

94. The method of claim 86, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises more than one piece.

95. The method of claim 86, wherein the innermost layer of the attenuation material (410) comprises a light source emitter component (610).

96. The method of claim 86, wherein the second layer comprises a metal or plastic.

97. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) of the radiation system (400) creates a radiation flux (405) similar to a radiation flux emitted by an annulus- shaped emanating source or partial annulus-shaped emanating source.

98. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises a plurality of discrete inserts that have a cumulative radiation emission shape (406) of an annulus or partial annulus.

99. The method of claim 86, wherein the radiation system (400) is housed in an encapsulation (402).

100. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is complexed to a carrier.

101. The method of claim 100, wherein the carrier is a porous substrate.

102. The method of claim 101 , wherein the porous substrate comprises aluminum oxide.

103. The method of claim 101 , wherein isotope is added to the porous substrate, and the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed.

104. The method of claim 74, wherein the isotope comprises a stable isotope, the isotope is added to the porous substrate, the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed, and then the isotope is activated.

105. The method of claim 86, wherein the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) comprises air, metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.

106. The method of claim 105, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises lead, gold, tungsten, beryllium, titanium, magnesium, aluminum, or a combination thereof.

107. The method of claim 105, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises polyoxymethylene (POM), polyacrylmethacrylate, silicone, an optical component, or a combination thereof.

108. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises Strontium-90, Yttrium-90, Strontium-90and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium, Yttrium-89, Iodine-125, Cesium-131 , Cesium-137, Iridium-192, Ruthenium-106, Phosphorous-32, or a combination thereof.

109. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a diameter of between about 1 to 100 mm.

110. The method of claim 86, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a thickness of between about 0.1 to 10 mm.

111. The method of claim 86, wherein the target of the eye comprises a neovascular lesion of wet AMD.

112. The method of claim 86, wherein the radiation system (400) is placed adjacent to the retrobulbar episcleral surface.

113. The method of claim 86, wherein the step of inserting the applicator system into the potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient further comprises placing a distal portion (110) of the applicator system on or near the sclera and positioning a treatment position (118) of the distal portion (110) of the applicator system near the target of the eye.

114. The method of claim 86, wherein the radiation system (400) is advanced to a treatment position (118) prior to the inserting of the applicator system into the potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient.

115. The method of claim 86, wherein the radiation system (400) is advanced to a treatment position (118) after the inserting of the applicator system into the potential space between the sclera and the Tenon’s capsule of the eye of the patient.

116. A brachytherapy system comprising an applicator system for insertion into a potential space between a sclera and a Tenon’s capsule of an eye of a patient, the applicator system comprises a radiation system (400), the radiation system (400) comprises an attenuation material (410) and an emanating source (401 ) having a shape that at least partially surrounds the attenuation material (410), the radiation system (400) is disposed at or near a tip of the applicator system.

117. The system of claim 116, wherein the attenuation material (410) and the emanating source (401 ) are coaxial.

118. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) completely surrounds the attenuation material (410).

119. The system of claim 116, wherein the applicator system comprises a stick (101 ), a rod, a tube, a cannula, or a combination thereof.

120. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is in the shape of an annulus or a partial annulus.

121. The system of claim 116, wherein the outer edge of the emanating source (401 ) as viewed from above is in the shape of a circle, a star, an oval, a square, a triangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, an octagon, or a decagon.

122. The system of claim 116, wherein the attenuation material (410) as viewed from a side is in the shape of a cylinder, a cone, a partial cone, a prism, or a dome.

123. The system of claim 116, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises two coaxial layers of two distinct materials divided into an innermost layer and a second layer.

124. The system of claim 116, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises more than one piece.

125. The system of claim 123, wherein the innermost layer of the attenuation material (410) comprises a light source emitter component (610).

126. The system of claim 123, wherein the second layer comprises a metal or plastic.

127. The system of claim 116, wherein the radiation system (400) is capable of providing a substantially uniform dose to a target area, the target are being an area 2 mm from the emanating source (401 ), the target area has a diameter that is at least 50% of that of the emanating source (401 ).

128. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises a plurality of discrete inserts that have a cumulative radiation emission shape (406) of an annulus or partial annulus.

129. The system of claim 116, wherein the radiation system (400) is housed in an encapsulation (402).

130. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) is complexed to a carrier.

131. The system of claim 130, wherein the carrier is a porous substrate.

132. The system of claim 131 , wherein the porous substrate comprises aluminum oxide.

133. The system of claim 131 , wherein isotope is added to the porous substrate, and the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed.

134. The system of claim 131 , wherein the isotope comprises a stable isotope, the isotope is added to the porous substrate, the isotope and porous substrate are together subsequently sealed, and then the isotope is activated.

135. The system of claim 116, wherein the centrally disposed attenuation material (410) comprises air, metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.

136. The system of claim 135, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises lead, gold, tungsten, beryllium, titanium, magnesium, aluminum, or a combination thereof.

137. The system of claim 135, wherein the attenuation material (410) comprises polyoxymethylene (POM), polyacrylmethacrylate, silicone, an optical component, or a combination thereof.

138. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) comprises Strontium-90, Yttrium-90, Strontium-90and Yttrium-90 in secular equilibrium, Yttrium-89, Iodine-125, Cesium-131 , Cesium-137, Iridium-192, Ruthenium-106, Phosphorous-32, or a combination thereof.

139. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a diameter of between about 1 to 100 mm.

140. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) has a thickness of between about 0.1 to 10 mm.

141. The system of claim 116, wherein the tip of the applicator system is disk- shaped.

142. The system of claim 116 further comprising a light source assembly (600).

143. The system of claim 142, wherein the light source assembly (600) comprises a lens operatively connected to an external light source, the lens is adapted to emit light of the external light source through a portion of the tip of the applicator system.

144. The system of claim 116, wherein the emanating source (401 ) provides a dose rate of between about 1 to 10 Gy/min to a target.

145. The system of claim 116, wherein the applicator system comprises a cannula system, the cannula system comprises a proximal portion (120) connected to a distal portion (110) by an inflection point (130), the distal portion (110) has a radius of curvature between about 9 to 15 mm and an arc length between about 25 to 35 mm and the proximal portion (120) has a radius of curvature between about an inner cross-sectional radius of the cannula system (100) and about 1 meter.