Absorption Spectra for Firefly Bioluminescence Substrate Analog: TokeOni in Various pH Solutions.

AkaLumine hydrochloride, named TokeOni, is one of the firefly luciferin analogs, and its reaction with firefly luciferase produces near-infrared (NIR) bioluminescence. Prior to studying the bioluminescence mechanism, basic knowledge about the chemical structures, electronic states, and absorption properties of TokeOni at various pH values of solution has to be acquired. In this paper, the absorption spectra for TokeOni and AkaLumine at pH 2-10 were measured.

Evaluation of the effects of subject thickness on the exposure index in digital radiography.

The exposure index (EI) was proposed as a new X-ray dose index by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and has since been implemented as an international standard. The EI is calculated by use of an approximation equation under IEC-specified calibration conditions. However, several factors encountered in clinical practice, including the patient's body thickness and the tube voltage, differ with regard to these calibration conditions.

[Development of unique supporting pad for performing chest radiography on patients in wheelchairs].

Chest radiography is a widely used X-ray inspection. The numbers of patients who use wheelchairs in everyday life has increased in Japan, and their need for radiography has also increased. A unique supporting pad that enables chest radiography for patients in wheelchairs has been developed.