The technique, called Image Guided Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy Treatment uses imaging provided by a CT scan to target the tumour before a powerful but precisely shaped radiation dose is administered.

BBC: 'Cinderella cancer' comes in from the cold

The research could even be applied to seemingly mundane and established fields like X-Ray imaging, by enabling us to find the proper intensity levels to produce a quality image while minimizing damage to cells.

ENGADGET: Researchers capture a single atom's shadow, has implications for quantum computers

The colors in the temperature map image that scientists released Thursday were arbitrarily chosen to show these intensity variations, Lawrence said.

CNN: Better 'baby picture' of universe emerges