Creation and application of three-dimensional computer-graphic animations for introduction to radiological physics and technology.

Physics-related subjects are important in the educational fields of radiological physics and technology. However, conventional teaching tools, for example texts, equations, and two-dimensional figures, are not very effective in attracting the interest of students. Therefore, we have created several multimedia educational materials covering radiological physics and technology. Each educational presentation includes several segments of high-quality computer-graphic animations designed to attract students' interest. We used personal computers (PCs) and commercial software to create and compile these. Undergraduate and graduate students and teachers and related professionals contributed to the design and creation of the educational materials as part of student research. The educational materials can be displayed on a PC monitor and manipulated with popular free software. Opinion surveys conducted in undergraduate courses at Kitasato University support the effectiveness of our educational tools in helping students gain a better understanding of the subjects offered and in raising their interest.

[Annual change in calibration constant of ionization chamber used in diagnostic radiology]

Committee on Radiological Protection of Japan Radiological Society (JRS) is making a database on patient doses for typical radiographies for introducing the guidance levels in Japan. The Committee reported necessity of a protocol on dosimetry in diagnostic radiology for introducing the guidance levels. Although a protocol on dosimetry in radiation therapy is established, there is no protocol on dosimetry in diagnostic radiology in Japan. Then, as a first step to establish a protocol on dosimetry in diagnostic radiology, annual changes in a calibration constant of an ionization chamber as a practical standard dosimeter has been investigated for 4 years. Changes in calibration constants for 4 years are within 2% for X-rays with effective energies than 32 keV. From these results, practical frequencies of calibrations for practical standard dosimeters are discussed for maintain of their precision. If an accuracy of practical standard dosimeters is 5% for diagnostic radiology, frequencies of their calibrations may be once in a year or two years.